News of the Week: News of the Week Announcements http://myllu.llu.edu/syncall/communityhome/?communityId=4264 en-us Thu, 28 Mar 2024 15:37:31 -0700 SyncAll RSS 1.0 4264:37001 <![CDATA[Restrain Yourself]]> By Terry Swenson When you go out to dinner with an influential person, mind your manners: Don’t gobble your food, don’t talk with your mouth full. And don’t stuff yourself; bridle your appetite.

Proverbs 23:1-3 The Message (MSG)

I don’t remember just what the occasion was, but I do remember that my family was meeting some people for dinner who seemed to be very important to my mom and dad. It was going to be at the kind of restaurant to which we, as children, were never invited — one of those fancy establishments where everyone is dressed up, the waiter speaks with an air of superiority and half a drawer of silverware is set around your plate.

My mom’s speech to me sounded very much like this week’s Proverbs. All I knew was that I was to be on my absolute best behavior. I was to restrain myself. That is the gist of what the author of our passage is saying: restrain yourself. How foreign that thought is in the world in which we live. All too often, it appears that people are only mindful of themselves. We live amidst an epidemic of self-focus. Customers in restaurants and stores treat servers as if they were invisible at best or an annoyance at worst. They let loose with barrages of bad behavior no matter who is around them. Asking someone to use restraint is viewed as trampling on their rights.

It is as if society has reverted into juveniles that try to justify their actions by claiming that “everybody does it.” Loma Linda University Health’s focus is “to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Christ.” Living that mission means that we don’t seek the lowest denominator of social interaction; we are to seek the highest. We aren’t to be on our best behavior with only the top-ranking administrators, or our bosses, or influential customers. We are not to restrain ourselves just to curry favor. Jesus calls us to restrain ourselves out of respect and care and love. Jesus invites us to live like Him: Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from His love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate? 

Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose. Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had.

Philippians 2:2-5 (NLT) 

Terry Swenson, DMin, is director of University Spiritual Care at Loma Linda University.

]]>
Thu, 21 Feb 2019 10:15:50 -0800
4264:37003 <![CDATA[Five heart health tips for the working woman]]> By Heather Jackson Heart disease is the number one killer in women, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Stress is one of the major risk factors responsible for cardiovascular disease. According to the American Institute of Stress, work is the major stress source for American adults. 

Purvi Parwani, MD, a Loma Linda University International Heart Institute cardiovascular disease specialist who focuses on women’s cardiovascular disease, says high mortality due to cardiovascular disease in women can only be changed if women put their heart health first.

“We as women we have to take ownership of heart health,” Parwani says. “Women still remain underserved in healthcare when it comes to cardiovascular disease prevention and survival due to their unique symptoms.”

Parwani says part of taking ownership over women’s heart health is about making it work and taking small steps in one of the most stressful places: the workplace. Here are her five tips for reducing stress at work: 

  1. Try facial stress-relief techniques. If you are in a stressful situation at work, Parwani advises to use havening relaxation techniques, such as rubbing your cheeks or forehead. She also says to take a break from the stressful environment by practicing deep breathing with a straight posture and closed eyes. This additional technique may help you calm down if you are having a stressful conversation with a co-worker or are upset about something on the job. 
  2. Snack on exercising. Parwani says some exercise is better than no exercise, and having a busy schedule or not enough time to exercise because of work should not be the reason for you to be inactive. She keeps a miniature stationary bike under her desk and peddles on it while working at her desk. She says other things that will help increase your heart rate at work include doing push-ups, parking far from your office, standing up every hour, taking stairs instead of the elevator or going for a 10-minute walk after lunch. 
  3. Stay hydrated. Always have a water bottle handy. Our bodies are mostly water, and staying hydrated is important to keep our systems functioning. 
  4. If you are a leader, be an activity leader. If you are a leader within your organization, use exercise for team building. Organize an optional exercise hour in the office gym or a stress relief activity such as yoga or a meditation class — after all, you're the boss. 
  5. Plan your meals. When you plan your meals for the week, you can avoid using up mental energy with food choices during your workday. Be sure to think of healthy foods and healthy portions. Remember to avoid meat and include lots of vegetables and fruits.

In addition to these work-related tips, Parwani urges women to never forget the top three risk factors that also require personal discipline — quit smoking if you smoke, avoid use of alcohol and make sure you check your family history. If you are interested in knowing your cardiovascular risk assessment feel free to visit the test online or if you would like to talk with a cardiologist about any concerns feel free to call 1-800-468-5432

]]>
Thu, 21 Feb 2019 10:19:28 -0800
4264:37005 <![CDATA[Wellness Live — Primary Care and the Need for Greater Access and Continuity in the Delivery of Healthcare]]> Janelle Ringer A free webinar, titled “Primary Care and the Need for Greater Access and Continuity in the Delivery of Healthcare,” will be live-streamed on Wednesday, Feb. 27, from 5:30–6 p.m.

Viewers will be able to ask questions and interact live with featured speaker Daniel Reichert, MD, vice chair Department of Family Medicine. The presentation will be hosted by Olivia Moses, DrPH, CWHC, director of Corporate Health and Wellness.

The webinar will be available at myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole/wellnesslive

For more information, call 909-651-4007.

]]>
Thu, 21 Feb 2019 10:21:59 -0800
4264:37006 <![CDATA[Have a (pickle)ball ]]> Employees one and all are invited to join the Mission Possible-themed Homecoming weekend at Loma Linda University Health. The full event runs Feb. 28–March 4. Family friendly and general-interest programming is scheduled Friday night through Sunday. 

The events are designed to foster unity across generations, disciplines, cultures and faiths through the shared heritage at Loma Linda University Health. Peruse the lineup for Friday night through Sunday morning:

Friday evening, March 1

  • Mission Possible: Alumni Feature Stories — 7 p.m. at Loma Linda University Church. 

Saturday, March 2

  • Prayer Walk — 8 to 9 a.m. at the Mission Globe on Centennial Pathway.
  • Parade of Flags/Sabbath school — 9 a.m. in Drayson Center.
  • Church service — 10:30 a.m. in Drayson Center.
  • Homecoming haystacks — following the Sabbath services, in the tent at Drayson Center superfield.
  • Mission Vespers — 4:30 p.m. at Loma Linda University Church.
  • Loma Linda’s Got Talent— 7 p.m. at Drayson Center. Featuring some of Loma Linda University Health’s finest alumni and student talent. Guest artists: Lyndon Johnston Taylor, violin, and Jinhyang Park, piano.
  •  

Sunday, March 3

  • Pancake feed — 8 to 11 a.m. in the tent at Drayson Center superfield.
  • Pickleball tournament — 8 a.m. at Drayson Center pickleball courts.

Interested in volunteering?
There are multiple opportunities to volunteer through the Feb. 28–March 4 Homecoming. Learn more and register.

For further details or information on registration for one or more events please visit
home.llu.edu/homecoming

]]>
Thu, 21 Feb 2019 10:24:17 -0800
4264:37008 <![CDATA[Help when you need it — Employee & Student Assistance Program]]> Since its inception in 1990, Loma Linda University Health’s Employee & Student Assistance Program has provided employees, students and their families with the highest quality of caring assessments and psychotherapy for a wide variety of issues. This includes personal, work and academic concerns. All of our services are free of charge and completely confidential.

Provided resources include:

  • Assessment & Referral
  • Crisis Intervention
  • In-Services
  • LGBT+ Resources
  • LGBT+ Support Groups
  • Phone Consultations
  • Short Term Counseling

We all face challenges that can affect work, academics or personal relationships. The purpose of the program is to assist employees, students and their families in developing and implementing a plan to discover personal goals and move toward a healthy transformation. 

If you are struggling with any issues that are impacting your ability to live your life to its fullest, let us partner with you as you navigate your personal journey. Set up an appointment by calling call 909-558-6050. Our offices are located at 11360 Mountain View Avenue, Hartford Building, Suite A in Loma Linda, CA 92354. 

]]>
Thu, 21 Feb 2019 10:25:35 -0800
4264:36968 <![CDATA[In matters big and small]]> By Kathy McMillan Do you see someone skilled in their work? They will serve before kings.
–Proverbs 22:29

With a brand new work permit in hand, I arrived for my first day of work at age 14. I had been hired by an older couple who lived a block from my school to “help out” around the house and to prune suckers on the tomatoes in their greenhouses. I was dismayed to discover that my first assignment was ironing a mountain of Mr. Peterson’s dress shirts. Having never mastered the art of ironing, I was mortified when Mrs. Peterson came in to check my work and asked me to start over. She patiently showed me how to begin with the collar and yoke, then move to the sleeves before ironing the front and back of the shirt.  

It was an embarrassing but helpful lesson in excellence.

The Statue of Liberty was dedicated in 1886, 17 years before the Wright brothers took their first flight. Yet if you see an aerial photograph showing the top of Lady Liberty’s head, you will notice that the artist went to painstaking effort to create detail in her hairstyle. The only beings that Frédéric Bartholdi could have possibly thought would see the hairdo were the seagulls flying overhead. But he valued excellence enough to finish the job beautifully. Now passengers in helicopters and airplanes see his work on a daily basis.

This day in February — Valentine’s Day — often turns our thoughts to how someone will show us love. Will there be flowers … chocolate … a sparkling gift? Perhaps our energy would be better spent by asking, “Do I love with excellence?” 

The way we demonstrate love to our families, those with whom we work, and those we serve and who serve us will make it clear whether or not we have grasped “the most excellent way” that Paul talks about in 1 Corinthians 12:31.

Do you value excellence? Are you honing your skills so you can offer the world your best? Are you committed to excellence, even when it may seem unimportant? 

I still find beauty in a freshly ironed shirt!

—Kathy McMillan is director of Employee Spiritual Care at Loma Linda University Medical Center.

]]>
Thu, 14 Feb 2019 11:40:53 -0800
4264:36963 <![CDATA[Making Tracs ]]> Trac Nguyen has worked as a parking enforcement officer at Loma Linda University Health for eight years, and he has seen it all — the good, the bad and the urgent.   

Calm and focused, he describes his job as purpose-driven and sat down with News of the Week to share his perspective about the world of parking at an academic health sciences organization. 

Three takeaways from Trac

1. Understandably, nobody wants to receive a parking citation. On the other hand, nobody wants to need treatment at a hospital, or need to visit a sick loved one.

“The least we can do is let them park where they need to,” Trac said. 

 2. There are no goals or quotas for giving out a certain number of parking violation tickets.   

“It’s better to educate than to issue a citation,” he said. “Approach us with a good manner. If you do get a ticket, learn from it and spread the knowledge.”

3. Following a few directions pretty much guarantees a parking spot. Arrive early; know your designated lot; know your backup options. If need be, contact the parking office for advice.

“We will help you!” Trac said.

]]>
Thu, 14 Feb 2019 09:22:57 -0800
4264:36965 <![CDATA['March Madness' — parking permit style]]> If you fall into one of these categories — employee, faculty, staff, student, volunteer, vendor, or contractor/contract employee — you must register for a parking permit and renew it annually. For most of Loma Linda University Health, including the Murrieta campus, permit renewal is due each March. (Exception: University renewals take place in October.)

You should have already received a courtesy email notification from “OPS System Administrator” with this subject line: [EXTERNAL] Online Parking System - Permit Expiration Notification. The email contains detailed instructions for renewing permit registration. You may also access the Online Parking System directly from any computer or mobile device.

When you renew your permit, you agree to read, understand and comply with Loma Linda University Health’s Parking Regulations document. Loma Linda University Health policy requires that all employees, faculty, staff, students, volunteers, vendors and contractors/contract employees comply with its parking regulations.

Obtaining permits

Access the Online Parking System to perform the following actions:

• Create an account
• Update account information
• Update vehicle information
• Apply for/renew permit
• Pay or appeal a citation

Learn more:

Parking permit Q&A
Map of parking lots

Parking One Portal page
909-651-3025
parking@llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 14 Feb 2019 09:23:09 -0800
4264:36967 <![CDATA[Presenting a parking-focused edition]]> Like many medical and academic campuses, Loma Linda University Health deals with a limited amount of space for parking lots and garages. Compounding the issue is the construction of a new hospital complex. Thousands of construction workers have joined the mix of patients, employees, students and guests who drive to campus.

Paramount concerns are campus safety, patient access to services and treatments, passage for emergency vehicles, and handicapped-accessible parking. To meet such needs, parking is regulated by administration-set policies codified in the “Parking Regulations” document (also found in the Online Parking System). 

Every employee and student must obtain and renew an annual parking permit, which sets forth that individual’s only designated parking area(s). When creating or renewing their annual permit, all employees and students agree each year to abide by the Parking Regulations.

To help you do that, the Feb. 14 issue of News of the Week is dedicated to all matters parking. The stories are designed to help you understand the issues and learn helpful tips. However, definitive information can only be found in the Parking Regulations. 

Learn more

Rideshare, Parking & Traffic Services
909-651-3025
parking@llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 14 Feb 2019 09:23:28 -0800
4264:36961 <![CDATA[MetroLink commuter benefits — coming soon]]> Loma Linda University Health is excited to announce it has joined the MetroLink Corporate Partner Program as a benefit to full- and part-time employees. The program will take effect in April. 

Significant savings will be possible for employees who ride MetroLink to work. You will be able to pay a large portion of your fares with pre-tax dollars of up to $265 monthly. This applies to purchase of monthly passes, seven-day passes, and roundtrip tickets.

Beyond tax savings and reduced personal vehicle expenses, employees will have access to the Rail 2 Rail ® Program and be eligible for a 25 percent fare discount for the first six months after the program goes live.

For purchases of monthly passes, a $25 subsidy will be granted each month; this is not applicable to seven-day or roundtrip tickets.

The nearest MetroLink station is in downtown San Bernardino, with access to Loma Linda via OmniTrans. If employee participation is high, Loma Linda University Health may offer a direct shuttle in the future. 

Interested in joining this program? Contact Rideshare at ext. 53033 or rideshare@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 14 Feb 2019 09:22:44 -0800
4264:36962 <![CDATA[Vanpools — more customizable than you knew]]> The Rideshare department at Loma Linda University Health helps coordinate vanpools for employees with similar commutes. Members of each vanpool group share the cost of gasoline and the monthly vehicle lease amount. 

Interested? The team at Rideshare may be able to match you with one of several existing vanpools, or new vanpools may be formed if at least five employees with similar need agree to begin one. The new group members agree on vehicle selection (wifi and HD radio options may be available) and daily meeting points and times. 

Benefits of vanpooling may include financial savings, time in your day, and a little bit of fun.

Other commuting choices available to employees of Loma Linda University Health — often with financial or other incentives — include carpools or a commitment to biking, walking, or taking public transportation. 

Learn more: ext. 53033 or rideshare@llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 14 Feb 2019 09:22:52 -0800
4264:36966 <![CDATA[Find that parking spot — here's how]]> While the fact may be true, no employee wants to hear that their employer isn’t under obligation to provide parking. So the experts in Parking & Traffic at Loma Linda University Health are here to help employees and students find a space.

Here are their tips.

  1. Arrive on campus at least 15-20 minutes prior to the beginning of your shift.
  2. Know your designated parking lot and any backup options. View your individual permit for details.
  3. Recognize times of high demand for parking. Employees who arrive to campus after 7:30–8 a.m. may be best served by going directly to parking lot SP on Shepardson Drive at the corner with Benton Street.
  4. Seriously, the Shepardson lot is awesome, boasting more than 500 parking spots — most of which are currently going unfilled. It may seem far, but …
  5. A shuttle runs all day long (from 6:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.) on this circular route:

Shepardson lot SP → Drayson Center → University Court (the cul-de-sac between the library and School of Dentistry) → VA Loma Linda Healthcare System → Shepardson lot

                 Learn more about shuttles.

6. After 5 p.m., parking lots not designated for patients are open for general employee and student parking (as well as attendees of campus events/church programs).

7. Still finding yourself out of luck? Call Parking & Traffic. They want to help. 909-651-3025 (ext. 53025)

 Some don’ts

The following methods to avoid parking regulations won’t work.

  1. Leaving a note on your dashboard to explain why you had to park in an area you’re unauthorized for.
  2. Putting on your hazard lights in a fire lane or other off-limits area while you dash inside, even just for 30 seconds.

Never park in a fire lane — or behind any ambulances outside the emergency department — or block a driveway. You will receive a citation.

Ordering lunch in? Please inform delivery drivers not to park in fire lanes or emergency department/ambulance parking — they, too, will receive a citation.

Patient parking areas and handicapped parking spaces are monitored 24/7/365.

One more tip: employee drop-offs and pick-ups are not allowed in front of the Medical Center. This entrance is for patients only.

 

]]>
Thu, 14 Feb 2019 09:23:15 -0800
4264:36964 <![CDATA[Changes coming to parking ]]> Loma Linda University Health administrators, and the staff of the Department of Parking & Traffic, are always looking for ways to better serve employees in their pursuit of getting to work.

Two big enhancements are upcoming. 

Gate for P2 garage

The gates at the entrance of parking garage P2 will be lowered beginning in March. This change will allow more employees who work in the Medical Center and Children’s Hospital to get spots in this primo real estate.

Here’s how it will work. A license plate reader will scan the plates of vehicles entering P2. Vehicles that aren’t tied to an appropriate employee permit will be advised to turn around. Vehicles linked to an employee with the right permit will be allowed to enter — but not more than one vehicle per account at a time will be granted access. Make sure you have your own account today.

This change should ease congestion in P2 by preventing unauthorized family members of an employee parking in the garage.

Parking for Centennial Complex event guests

Another revision designed to ensure more parking for employees (and students) stipulates that attendees to events held at Centennial Complex may no longer park in lox X. Event guests must now park at lot SP on Shepardson Drive at the corner of Benton Street. From there, shuttles will drive guests to the venue. (There will be exceptions to this policy; requests will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.)

More about event parking

 

]]>
Thu, 14 Feb 2019 09:23:03 -0800
4264:36890 <![CDATA[Blood donation drives — local need is critical]]> By Heather Reifsnyder The local supply of donated blood is currently too low to support the community,  according to LifeStream Blood Bank. The organization is holding two blood drives in Loma Linda to boost availability of blood for area patients and in case of a community emergency.

            • Friday, Feb. 8, from 2–6 p.m. at Ronald McDonald House

-In conjunction with Health & Wellness Mixer hosted by Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce and other local chambers

            • Monday, Feb. 11, from 12–5 p.m. at LLU Drayson Center.

                        –Hosted by LLU School of Medicine

 More information 

 Call the San Bernardino LifeStream office at 909-885-6503.

]]>
Thu, 07 Feb 2019 12:39:09 -0800
4264:36880 <![CDATA[Business office closures for Presidents Day]]> Administrative and support departments at Loma Linda University Health will close for observance of Presidents Day on Monday, Feb. 18. This includes departments such as Risk Management, Human Resource Management, Payroll, Marketing & Communications, administrative offices, and more. 

Employee Health Services, at both the Loma Linda and Murrieta locations, will be closed that day, impacting the schedule for TB tests as follows:

Loma Linda office: The last day to have a TB test placed prior to Presidents Day will be Wednesday, Feb. 13. Walk-in appointments that day will be available from 7–11:15 a.m., and appointments will be available beginning at 12:30 p.m. 

Murrieta office: The last day to have a TB test placed prior to Presidents Day will be Tuesday, Feb. 12. Please call 951-290-4571 to schedule an appointment.

Reminder: On-location TB test clinics will be offered at Children’s Hospital (Feb.19 placement/Feb. 21 read) and Murrieta hospital (Feb. 11 placement/Feb. 13 read). Details.

Payroll will not be able to process off-cycle checks Feb. 18–20. Additionally, please note the following information:

Holiday paid leave (not applicable to Loma Linda–Inland Empire Consortium for Healthcare Education)

Hourly employees

Any overtime accrued during a pay period with a holiday will automatically reduce the amount of holiday paid owed to the employee. This allows employees to preserve more of their paid leave balance. Should an employee wish to be paid overtime and the full amount of holiday paid leave, the employee needs to enter a manual Holiday PDL calendar request for their daily/scheduled hours (not to exceed daily or weekly approved hours).

Salaried employees (not applicable to LLU)

Salaried employees who work on a holiday are entitled to have their holiday paid leave returned to their paid leave bank. Employees must enter a calendar request using the date of the holiday, “Cancel Holiday” pay code, and hours = 8 to request this action. 

Loma Linda University and LLU Healthcare

Approvers will have until Tuesday, Feb. 19, at 10 a.m. to finalize and approve employee timecards.

The deadline for receipt of payroll adjustment forms is Wednesday, Feb. 13, at 5 p.m.

Questions? Contact Payroll at ext. 14004 or Payroll@llu.edu

Drayson Center will remain open for normal business. 

]]>
Thu, 07 Feb 2019 09:05:00 -0800
4264:36878 <![CDATA[Special parking edition of <em>News of the Week</em>]]> Heather Reifsnyder News of the Week will publish a special edition on Thursday, Feb. 14, devoted to all things parking at Loma Linda University Health. Learn about:

• New MetroLink benefit coming soon
• Tips for finding a parking space
• Vanpools are awesome — what you may have never known
• Updated parking policy document
• Why it is so important to only park in your assigned lot(s)
• Gate coming to P2 garage
• Impact to campus parking during Homecoming weekend (Feb. 28–March 4)
• And more …

Be sure to read News of the Week for all the details. 

]]>
Thu, 07 Feb 2019 09:04:51 -0800
4264:36879 <![CDATA[Oak Glen Fellowship: Tales of a Mission-Minded Family — Feb. 9]]> Dr. Richard and Judy Hart invite employees, students and friends to their home in Oak Glen this Saturday, Feb. 9, at 10:30 a.m. for “Oak Glen Fellowship.” 

Special guests Drs. Jason and Belen Lohr, and their four children, will present “Tales of a Mission-Minded Family.”

The Lohr family will share their personal journey, featuring challenges and triumphs during their many years of international mission service. They have served in medical missions in Nigeria and Honduras and provided medical lectures in Cuba. Jason Lohr is chief executive officer at SAC Health System, and Belen Lohr is a family medicine clinician.

The Harts host Oak Glen Fellowship on the second Saturday morning of each month from October through May. Get to know other employees and students outside of campus, and enjoy a vegetarian potluck; drinks are provided. Dress casually and bring a jacket or wear layered clothing. After-lunch hiking is available if weather permits.

Directions

]]>
Thu, 07 Feb 2019 09:04:56 -0800
4264:36881 <![CDATA[Does your department have a safety coordinator?]]> The Safety Coordinator Program trains and empowers Loma Linda University Health employees to work in collaboration with Environmental Health & Safety to provide the safest possible environment for staff, patients and visitors.

Environmental Health & Safety provides an online safety training course. If your department doesn’t have a designated safety coordinator, assign one today. Designees can register online and then sign up for training on the OWL Portal

For more information, call 909-651-4018 or email vibrown@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 07 Feb 2019 09:05:05 -0800
4264:36877 <![CDATA[Moving Margins]]> By Carl Ricketts Do not move the ancient boundary
Which your fathers have set.
                         –Proverbs 22:28

Have you ever played a game as the “new person”?

It is a time in which you are trying to learn the rules, relying on those who have played the game before you for guidance and instruction, all while trusting that those who know the game will not take advantage of your ignorance and vulnerabilities. 

Recently, I picked up the game of pickleball and was fortunate to learn from the most wonderful group of seasoned players who taught me the rules of the game. These lovers of the game taught me when to hit the ball, where to hit the ball and where the boundaries were that allowed me to be in compliance with the rules of the game. Those who knew more about the game knew that we would all have the best experience in the game if the rules and boundaries of the game were known and applicable to all. 

Sadly, in real-life there are moments when people who feel like the “new person” — experiencing grief, loss, voicelessness, financial inequity, and innumerable disparities — are taken advantage of by people who prey on their lack of knowledge, lack of resources and lack of advocacy.

This proverb, “Do not move the ancient boundary which your fathers have set,” was an imperative against taking advantage of widows and orphans by seizing their property, especially through illegal means. One who lost a spouse or parents was vulnerable because those who cared for their well-being socially, physically and economically were no longer around. Some would recognize this point of vulnerability, and, in predatory fashion, move the stone boundaries that marked the margins of their properties to increase their claim of land — believing no one would stand up for the vulnerable.

Yet, God is the advocate who stands up for His people. He is concerned about us to the point that He will stand up for us legally. Still going beyond legality, He demonstrates His care for us relationally. Many will state that your treatment is unjust or unfair, yet Christ doesn’t just talk about the plight of the oppressed, He does something about it, coming closer by relating with the marginalized and broken-hearted. Their Redeemer is strong, the Lord of Hosts is His name; He will vigorously plead their case … (Jeremiah 50:34).

May we resolve in our lives never to move the margins on people, boxing them into corners where we reduce their potential for abundant life. If I dismiss the gift given by God to His child, I dismiss the gift that is God’s child. And if I dismiss the gift that is God’s child, I dismiss The Gift Giver, who is God.

—Carl Ricketts Jr., MDiv, BCC, is director of Chaplain Services for Loma Linda University Medical Center.

 

]]>
Thu, 07 Feb 2019 09:04:47 -0800
4264:36872 <![CDATA[Notes from the President — Revisiting your history]]> By Dr. Richard Hart   February 2019
Revisiting your history

Homecoming 2019 offers education, spiritual renewal and fellowship


Dr. Richard Hart portrait

Alex Haley’s Roots: The Saga of an American Family, and the television miniseries that followed in 1977, electrified the United States with its incredible story of a man tracing his roots seven generations back to Kunta Kinte, a young man seized in The Gambia in western Africa and brought to America as a slave. The story, part history and part novel, highlights the beauty in the quest of finding your roots that signal who you are and where you came from. 

Fascination with our own roots has become easier today with the option of tracking the wandering of our DNA through history. You hear many stories of both gratification and surprise when we discover more about ourselves. The family roots on my father’s side came from an undocumented immigrant about five generations back when a British sailor jumped ship in Nova Scotia, Canada, and started his new life on this continent.  

Stories such as these become part of a bigger, shared history when we study and develop our professional skills and identities through education. For many of us alumni, Loma Linda University is the place where we gained the confidence to truly become ourselves and to dream our plans for the future. This identity is often wrapped up in the people, professors and staff who treated us with respect — they applauded our success and occasionally held our hands through some rough spots. It also rests in buildings and places that bring back memories of the past that established a place in our minds.

Homecomings are special because they reconnect us to our roots here — teachers and friends who walked that moment in history with us. 

This year’s Homecoming weekend begins on Thursday, Feb. 28, with a full day of continuing education courses, including an interdisciplinary day, offered free to all, on topics of concern such as opioid addictions, suicide risk, and ways to identify and counter these dreadful epidemics. Friday will continue with more CE courses focused on discipline-specific topics. 

The weekend program, which we are calling Mission Possible, begins Friday night at 7 p.m. in the Loma Linda University Church with incredible stories and videos of our alumni and the impact they have had around the world. Saturday morning will shift to the Drayson Center for our traditional Parade of Flags, followed by more stories and class recognitions. The church service will include the full University Church Orchestra and Choir, followed by Randy Roberts’ message, and end with one of my favorites, our faculty and students signing the Lord’s Prayer while sung by Jeje Noval. 

The big tent will again host what might be the world’s largest haystack feed, followed by various groups meeting during the afternoon. I would encourage you to gather again in the University Church at 4:30 p.m. for our Mission Vespers, which will feature people and stories from Angola, Malawi and Haiti.  

Saturday night activities are back at the Drayson Center, presenting Loma Linda’s Got Talent, with both classic and cultural music and stories. A highlight this year will be a special performance by Lyndon Taylor, an accomplished violinist with the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Sunday morning brings a pickleball tournament at the Drayson Center, a pancake feed and more CE courses. 

Homecoming weekend has become a major event on this campus, when alumni from all our schools can meet, swap stories and hear updates on the campus. I encourage you to join us for this annual gathering, where you can revisit your roots, relive your stories from the past and rekindle longtime friendships. See you soon!

llu.edu/homecoming

Sincerely,

“Richard 

 

 

Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

 

Vision 2020 – The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow

]]>
Thu, 07 Feb 2019 08:56:28 -0800
4264:36796 <![CDATA[February's TB test clinic dates]]> Employee Health Services is offering two TB test clinics on the main campus during February for staff whose jobs require an annual health screening clearance.

Additionally, LLU Medical Center – Murrieta will have its own employee TB test clinic.

All TB tests must be read within 48-72 hours after placement. Failure to have the TB test read will necessitate another test at the employee’s own expense. 

Main campus

Feb. 4 and 6
Placement: Feb 4, 1:30–4:30 p.m. in Children’s Hospital room 1830
Reading: Feb. 6, 1:30–3:30 p.m. in Children’s Hospital room 1830

Feb. 19 and 21
Placement: Feb 19, 1:30–4:30 p.m. in Children’s Hospital room 1832
Reading: Feb. 21, 1:30–3:30 p.m. in Children’s Hospital room 1830

All tests must be read within 48-72 hours after placement, either at the return clinic dates above or at Employee Health Services (main campus).

Murrieta campus

Feb. 11 and 13
Placement: Feb. 11, 1:30–3:30 p.m. in Menifee Room (fourth floor)
Reading: Feb. 13, 1:30–3:30 p.m. in Menifee Room (fourth floor)

Tests must be read within 48-72 hours after placement, either at the return clinic date above or at Employee Health Services’ Murrieta location.

New timeline for annual employee health clearances

As of 2019, Loma Linda University Health — including Murrieta campus — is changing the deadline for annual employee health clearances to each employee’s birth month. More information is available in this story from News of the Week: Date for annual employee health clearances to change

]]>
Thu, 31 Jan 2019 09:18:37 -0800
4264:36790 <![CDATA[Bed Snatchers — a devotional]]> By Carla Park Do not be one who shakes hands in pledge
or puts up security for debts;
if you lack the means to pay,
your very bed will be snatched from under you.
                               –Proverbs 22:26-27 (NIV)

Credit card debt has reached its highest ever, with the average credit card debt amounting to over $6,000. This news is not surprising to us anymore. In fact, it is an essay-stopper — a first line that causes the reader to quit reading. So why would I write it?

Because that’s where everyone expects a writer to go with this text in Proverbs:

Do not be one who shakes hands in pledge
or puts up security for debts;
if you lack the means to pay,
your very bed will be snatched from under you.

But let’s go deeper.

In this text, the author is concerned about our very beds being “snatched from under” us. This metaphor is deeply personal. Our beds are places of safety and comfort. They are places where we spend a third of our time — the most important time, essential for memory, health and wellbeing. 

“Shall we take our pillows?” My husband asks this question before every car trip. He knows my answer will be yes because I want my bed away from home to be more like home. We are “tucked in” as children by parents who love us, and we “snuggle under the blankets” to shelter from cold. We “sleep in” as an extravagant way to spend time. Wanting to “sleep in my own bed” means “I want to be home.” 

A bed matters. 

There are all kinds of horror films about bodysnatchers, but our two verses from Proverbs warn against the bed snatcher. “Your very bed” isn’t a metaphor for your most precious possession; it signifies to your most basic, fundamental possession. The possession you cannot do without, the one that grounds you, connects you to the foundation of who you are. 

Once you lose that, you are “bedless,” or, more accurately, homeless. You have nothing.

What takes us to that place? When we make promises that are not easy to keep, we must spend an inordinate amount of time and energy trying to catch up. If in debt, we work extra to make more money. If we overcommit, we stay up late or work extended hours to accommodate. 

We fling the doors wide open for bed snatchers.

We can’t see them, of course. They ease in ever so gently and quietly. We are “fine” until we are not. That’s the problem. The line between “fine” and “not fine” is as invisible as the line running through my property separating Redlands and Yucaipa. It is as real as the legal system. People fight over these lines, but if you are standing on the property, all you see is dry ground and a few weed sprigs. 

There is no line visible where a very real line exists. A person can step over it without realizing that it is even there. Once you step over it, you step into another territory, a less predictable and reliable world. You find yourself looking back, even as you race forward. There are no signs warning “No way back!” and yet they litter the road in front.

Why live anywhere close to this line? There are so many lines that we can’t avoid — aging, death, disappointment. But this line — the one that appears when we overspend and overcommit — is one we draw with our own hands and then cross with our own choices. “Live beneath your means” is a whisper emerging from old people who appear like they are out of touch. “You are not measured by how much you do” is usually said only by people who are retired. Let’s listen. Now.

What kind of life do we want to live? I want one with my own bed. I have been at risk of losing it, and it was a frightening place to be. No, I’ll spend less, do less, promise less … in order to sleep in my own bed.

—Carla Park, PhD, is assistant vice president for Spiritual Life and Mission at Loma Linda University Health.

]]>
Thu, 31 Jan 2019 09:17:57 -0800
4264:36791 <![CDATA[Vetoed California legislation, addressing health through housing, and more]]> News of the Week presents the January 2019 monthly roundup of resources from the Institute for Health Policy and Leadership at Loma Linda University Health. 

The Institute for Health Policy and Leadership is an active player in analyzing current issues, bills and laws dealing with health; curating coverage of key national news regarding healthcare, public health and science; and assessing implications for Seventh-day Adventist health systems.

January 2019 policy resources 

Healthcare News at a Glance weekly briefs

• Jan. 3 issue
• Jan. 9 issue
• Jan. 16 issue
• Jan. 23 issue

Issue at a Glance monthly brief       

• “Suicidal Behavior in Youth

Policy at a Glance monthly brief

        • “2018 Vetoed Health Legislation in California

Health Policy Connection blog posts

        • Hospitals Address the Social Determinants of Health through Housing

• “‘See2See Road Trip’ — Finding New Ways to Learn for Health Policy Professionals

Learn more: ihpl@llu.edu or ext. 87022

]]>
Thu, 31 Jan 2019 09:18:02 -0800
4264:36792 <![CDATA[Code Gray drill to involve every hospital department]]> Wednesday, May 1 will see all six hospital campuses participating in a safety drill for Code Gray emergencies — specifically threats posed by a combative individual. To reach all employees, a mini drill will be conducted in every unit/department with area-specific teams. The participating locations are Medical Center, East Campus, Surgical Hospital, Children’s Hospital, Behavioral Medicine Center and Murrieta. 

Department heads must select a point person who will be responsible for facilitating that department’s mini drill. This person could be a safety coordinator, educator, charge nurse or another capable individual. Please submit your department's designee information no later than Thursday, Feb. 7.

Learn more

The goal of this drill is to help employees better understand Code Gray situations and support offered for potential situations of workplace violence.

More information, including a description of the facilitators’ roles and responsibilities, is available in the full news story on One Portal.

]]>
Thu, 31 Jan 2019 09:18:08 -0800
4264:36794 <![CDATA[IRS increases dollar limit for retirement contributions]]> Good news for retirement planning: Eligible employees can put away an additional $500 in 2019 for their future.

The Internal Revenue Service increased the 2019 limit for employee deferrals to approved retirement plans — 403(b) tax-sheltered annuities — from $18,500 to $19,000. The catch-up contribution limit for employees age 50 and above will remain at $6,000. Thus, employees age 50 and over can contribute up to $25,000 in 2019 to retirement funds.

Loma Linda University Health encourages benefit-eligible employees to take advantage of the retirement plans offered to them. Employees who contribute to their plan can increase financial security for the future while receiving a tax break on pre-taxed contributions.

Furthermore, benefit-eligible employees of these entities — Loma Linda University (staff only), Medical Center, Children’s Hospital, Behavioral Medicine Center, Murrieta and Shared Services — may also receive employer matching on qualified employee contributions. 

Improve your future

It’s never too soon or too late to start planning for retirement.

For more information about retirement plans at Loma Linda University Health, visit the Human Resource Management benefits page on One Portal. Additionally, employees are encouraged to utilize the free online financial planning tools available through the SmartDollar employee benefit. 

Learn more by contacting Human Resource Management at ext. 14001 or humanresources@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 31 Jan 2019 09:18:18 -0800
4264:36793 <![CDATA[Meet your financial goals with SmartDollar]]> Are you ready to face your finances after the holidays?

The Living Whole Wellness Program wants to help. The Loma Linda University Health program provides all employees, and their spouses, the free opportunity to join Dave Ramsey’s SmartDollar program.

SmartDollar is an online program that strives to help employees get out of debt, create and follow a spending plan, and save for future needs such as retirement. The program’s budgeting tools, expert advice and motivating content help you reach your financial goals. 

If you have not yet signed up for the SmartDollar program, you are missing out on more than a $100 value budgeting tool.

Sign up today.

]]>
Thu, 31 Jan 2019 09:18:12 -0800
4264:36795 <![CDATA[Homecoming awaits — one month from today]]> The 2019 Homecoming weekend at Loma Linda University Health is all about the theme of “Mission Possible.” The event’s five-day programming will offer something for everyone — including employees. The weekend runs from Thursday, Feb. 28, through Monday, March 4. 

Events will center around learning, worshiping and enjoying time together. Highlights of the weekend include:

Thursday 

Interprofessional Education Day — a free continuing education conference on “Today’s Healthcare Challenges: An interprofessional approach to suicide, behavioral health and the opioid crisis.” 8 a.m.–5 p.m. at Centennial Complex. Learn more.

All School Research Poster Presentations — showcasing student research from all eight schools. 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Centennial Complex’s fourth floor. (Also Friday 8 a.m.–1 p.m.)

Friday

Mission Possible: Alumni Feature Stories — vespers service. 7 p.m. at Loma Linda University Church.

Sabbath morning

Prayer Walk  A guided prayer experience. 8–9 a.m. at the Mission Globe on the campus quad.

Sabbath School/Parade of Flags — 9–10:30 a.m. at Drayson Center. 

Church  10:30 a.m. at Drayson Center with guest speaker Randy Roberts, DMin.

Saturday afternoon

Haystack feed  Food, fellowship, fun. 12:15 p.m. at Drayson Center superfield.

Saturday night

Loma Linda’s Got Talent — A family event showcasing the talents of the Loma Linda University Health family. 7 p.m. at Drayson Center.

Sunday

Pancake feed A delicious pancake breakfast. 8–11 a.m. at Drayson Center’s superfield.

Pickleball Tournament  the second-annual tradition-in-the-making. 7 a.m. registration, 8 a.m. start at Drayson Center’s pickleball courts. 

For full programming description of the five-day weekend, check the online Homecoming schedule. Additional helpful links include the schedule by school and a list of continuing education courses by profession.

Last but not least, don't forget to register.

Questions?

HomecomingEvent@llu.edu
909-558-5360

]]>
Thu, 31 Jan 2019 09:18:23 -0800
4264:36723 <![CDATA[Contagious Anger, Contagious Peace — a devotional]]> By Randy Roberts The late Eugene Peterson’s paraphrase of the Bible is called The Message. Here is how The Message renders Proverbs 22:24–25:

Don’t hang out with angry people;
    don’t keep company with hotheads.
Bad temper is contagious—
    don’t get infected.
 

While I appreciate the sentiment, I do wonder whether these verses from Proverbs are just the overstated ramblings of an aging man from a long, long time ago. I mean, don’t have to be affected by the emotions of others, do I? After all, I believe in the concept of the solid self, a concept that says that when a person is solid at the core, then that person knows and stands for their beliefs, convictions, principles and opinions. They maintain their individuality. They have strength. They are solid.

But then along comes the wise man and says, “Don’t keep company with hotheads, because anger is contagious.” Does the wise man have a point?

Some time ago, a friend of mine introduced me to a concept called “emotional contagion.” According to the (trusty?!) annals of Wikipedia, emotional contagion “is the phenomenon of having one person’s emotions and related behaviors directly trigger similar emotions and behaviors in other people.” It’s the experience of “catching” a given emotion from another person, just like catching the flu. Interestingly, there’s a significant amount of research to back up the concept’s validity. 

Curiously, it isn’t even limited just to emotions. Yawning has been observed to be contagious in humans as well as numerous animal species, such as chimpanzees, cats, birds, and reptiles.

You’ve had that experience, haven’t you? Perhaps you’re in a faculty meeting — the kind of meeting of which I heard one person say: “When I die, I hope it’s in a faculty meeting, because the transition from life to death will be so subtle!” — and someone y-a-w-n-s… What are you doing ten seconds later?

Emotional contagion seems to be a valid reality. So, now we go back to the words of the wise man in Proverbs 22:24–25, this time from the New International Version:

Do not make friends with a hot-tempered person,
         do not associate with one easily angered,
or you may learn their ways
         and get yourself ensnared.

Do you know what I notice about today’s public dialogue, recorded on the news, on websites, and through social media? It seems that so many people are yelling. The world is angry. One side shouts and the other screams back. One group accuses and the other responds in kind. One person condemns and another retaliates. Our current cultural reality is one of emotional contagion run amok. 

I think the wise man was right!

And then I think of the words of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:8):

Blessed are the peacemakers
     for they will be called children of God. 

Do you know what I long for? I long for peace to spread through emotional contagion. I long for peace  to be caught by one person and then another. I long for peace to spread around our campus, then our city, then our world.

But it has to start with someone. Somebody has to be “patient zero.” Someone has to be the one who spreads it. I’m willing. Are you?

—Randy Roberts, DMin, is vice president for Spiritual Life and Mission at Loma Linda University Health.

]]>
Wed, 23 Jan 2019 18:02:47 -0800
4264:36724 <![CDATA[Wellness Live — creating family fun with food prep]]> The Living Whole Wellness Program will host a free live-streamed presentation on Wednesday, Jan. 30, from 5:30–6 p.m., featuring speaker and program dietitian Esmerelda Valluru, MS, RD.

Viewers will be able to ask questions and interact live with Valluru about ways to make family meals fun with food prep. The presentation will be hosted by Olivia Moses, DrPH, director of corporate health and wellness at Loma Linda University Health.    

Watch the livestream on Loma Linda University Health’s Facebook page or via the Wellness Live webpage. For more information, call 909-651-4007.

Did you miss last month’s live broadcast on “The Gift of Gratitude” by Carl Ricketts Jr., MDiv? View it on demand, along with numerous past presentations, in the Wellness Live archive.

]]>
Wed, 23 Jan 2019 18:02:53 -0800
4264:36725 <![CDATA[Plain exterior of new building hides super abilities]]> By Heather Reifsnyder The newest building to open at Loma Linda University Health makes for a safer campus and community through safely storing hazardous waste materials in a self-contained system with built-in backup measures. It went into use earlier this month and is located on Parkland Street.

Should a chemical spill occur in the new structure, the building’s design will keep in any and all noxious solids, liquids or gases, preventing campus evacuation, mass exposure, or worse.

Hazardous substances generated by the organization’s various clinical labs and research laboratories are collected daily and transported to the building, where they are stored in an appropriate container as per chemical type. Every 90 days, a contracted company collects the materials for disposal. 

Though unlikely, if any materials spilled while in-house — or if an earthquake were to occur — the building is ready. Its foundation is solid enough to support thousands of pounds of hazardous substances and much more. This super solid foundation safely houses four chemically sealed containment pits to which any spillage would run through drainage grates. 

Nor can gas fumes escape the building, in which every surface — including lightbulbs and paint — is built to rebuff sparks and withstand fire. Interior ceiling sprinklers add a further layer of protection, and the walls are composed of block walls reinforced with rebar and filled with concrete.

All this is wired into the campus’ fire alarm system and monitored 24/7 by video surveillance. 

Several years in the planning, the Hazardous Material Storage Building is one of the ways Loma Linda University Health carries out its commitment to a safe environment for students, employees, patients and community members. The Office of Environmental Health & Safety is grateful for funding and support from Loma Linda University to get the project lifted, noted Brett McPherson, director. 

]]>
Wed, 23 Jan 2019 18:03:01 -0800
4264:36726 <![CDATA[Would you want to know? New York Times medicine and science reporter to speak on genetic testing]]> By Heather Reifsnyder The Center for Christian Bioethics invites the campus and community to come hear Gina Kolata, a bestselling author and medical reporter, speak about a difficult decision faced by individuals who may be carriers for deadly genetic diseases. Do they want to find out? 

The Saturday, Feb. 2, talk will take place at 3 p.m. in the Centennial Complex’s Damazo Amphitheater. Kolata will discuss the topic of her most recent book, Mercies in Disguise: A Story of Hope, a Family's Genetic Destiny, and The Science That Rescued Them. 

Kolata writes to demystify the science of health. Through her six books, speaking engagements and reporting for The New York Times, she illuminates topics such as stem cell research, pandemic illness, obesity, exercise and genetic cloning.

Kolata’s talk is free and open to the public. For more information, email bioethics@llu.edu or call 909-558-4956.

]]>
Wed, 23 Jan 2019 18:03:19 -0800
4264:36727 <![CDATA[Free continuing education: suicide, behavioral health and the opioid crisis]]> Employees and students are invited to take advantage of a free day of interprofessional continuing education on Thursday, Feb. 28, that will examine “Today’s Healthcare Challenges: An interprofessional approach to suicide, behavioral health and the opioid crisis.”

The program will feature morning presentations followed by two highlyinteractive, multidisciplinary panels in the afternoon. The event will begin at 8 a.m. and conclude at 5 p.m., located in the Centennial Complex’s Damazo Amphitheater.

Register now for this day of free interprofessional education. It will kick off the 2019 Homecoming weekend at Loma Linda University Health.

]]>
Wed, 23 Jan 2019 18:03:19 -0800
4264:36728 <![CDATA[Employee benefits update enriches two key benefits]]> The Department of Human Resource Management announced employee benefit updates that went into effect this month, bringing changes to the professional certification and jury service policies.

The jury service policy (1-27) has been modified to eliminate the daily 8-hour limit. This allows 12-hour shift employees to cover the full shift missed due to jury service.

The professional certification benefit has been increased from $300 to $500 for full-time employees, and from $150 to $250 for part-time employees. This change comes as a part of the Educational Benefits policy (K-24). Remember that educational benefits also include, where applicable, financial assistance for college/graduate courses, textbooks and continuing education units. 

Since 2016, the Human Resource Management team has proactively sought feedback on how the employee experience might be improved or enhanced. The initiative is called “You talked, we listened … together we value.” Employees are invited to submit suggestions and ideas.

To learn more about the benefits available to you, please visit the Human Resource Management One Portal page. For any questions, please contact Human Resource Management at ext. 14001 or humanresources@llu.edu.

]]>
Wed, 23 Jan 2019 18:03:27 -0800
4264:36668 <![CDATA[Not On Our Watch!]]> By Dilys Brooks Have you ever been on the receiving end of mistreatment or witnessed someone else being victimized? Mistreatment, whether directly received or observed, precipitates a mix of emotions that weigh heavily on our souls. I would surmise that these emotions are not feelings of love, acceptance, belonging. Perhaps the experience left you feeling inundated by fear, uncertainty, anger, anxiety or hopelessness. If so, you are not alone.

We are living in a time where bullying, oppression, and discourtesy often reign unchecked. Half-truths, misrepresentation, selfishness, and self-centeredness appear to be the relational currency of our day. What are we to do? We could remain silent. We could ignore it. We could hide. Or, we could just keep our heads down and try to escape from the environment. But are these really the best plan of action for us?

One of the things that I have learned over the course of my personal and professional life is that injustice wreaks havoc in the lives of people — regardless of their age, ethnicity, religion, culture or class standing. Our wisdom saying for this week, Proverbs 22:22-23, provides counsel, as well as perspective about oppression. 

Don’t rob the poor just because you can,

or exploit the needy in court.

For the Lord is their defender.

He will ruin anyone who ruins them.

–Proverbs 22:22–23 (NLT)

The guidance being offered to us shows that God sees, knows, and will act. In the midst of our most difficult experiences, or when we find ourselves on the receiving end of injustice, we all desire the intervention of a champion. For some individuals reading this, it may be disappointing to learn that God has observed their hardships and did not act quickly. Yet, I would encourage all to explore the precious promise in verse 23. It may appear that the perpetrators of injustice go unpunished until we take a closer look. God defends. God vindicates. God restores! I have personally experienced the healing, transforming power of God despite cruelty, unkindness and pain that I’ve experienced in my lifetime. If I am going to be even more transparent, I will say that the very occurrences that had me in tears and despair have ultimately helped me to become the person I am today. These lived experiences have both exposed and mobilized me to become an advocate against injustice.

In advocating against injustice, we must first be responsible that we are doing our part by not being the perpetrator of pain in the lives of others? Our responsibilities as employees of Loma Linda University Health go beyond that and include speaking up for the oppressed, defending those who are being bullied, and caring for the broken and hurting among us. As we continue to explore ways to live and lead others through the provision of healthcare, I pray we will each take to heart the admonition to be kind and trust God to defend us. Let us commit — employees and students alike — to make every effort to resist taking advantage of others, as well as advocating justice for the oppressed.  

—Dilys Brooks, MDiv, is campus chaplain for Loma Linda University.

 

]]>
Thu, 17 Jan 2019 09:31:34 -0800
4264:36670 <![CDATA[Week of Renewal to finish strong with three Friday programs]]> January is often a time filled with reflection of the past and hope for the future, with a desire to renew our commitment to live our best lives. We hope the music, messages, promises, activities and connection with others has provided you with inspiration and vision for your new year.

Week of Renewal will conclude its exploration of living, loving, learning and leading tomorrow, Friday, Jan.18 with: 

8:30-9 a.m. Morning Renewal* | 1830/32, Children's Hospital
Arwyn Wild – Leading from the Back - Light breakfast served 

11-11:50 a.m. University at Worship* | University Church
Lola Moore Johnston

12-12:30 p.m. Space for Stillness | Main Lobby, Murrieta Hospital
Jared Horricks - Grace and Gratitude 

*The 8:30 a.m., and 11 a.m., programs may be viewed live at lomalindarenewal.org or on channel 40.2.

In addition to Friday’s services -

  • The sock drive continues through Friday 9 a.m. All donations of NEW socks for children and adults benefit SACHS in San Bernardino. Everyone deserves warm feet.
  • You can brighten someone’s day by sending an iAppÜ – A note of appreciation.
  • Send a prayer request to prayerrequest@llu.edu.
  • Explore Faith: This is a great time to find a friend or colleague with whom to have a discussion about faith. If you are looking for a conversation partner, call Employee Spiritual Care at ext. 48406, University Spiritual Care at ext. 88348 or LLU Medical Center Chaplains Services at ext. 44367.

SAVE THE DATE: The next opportunity for employee Renewal will be at OASIS – A day of Renewal – Thursday, April 18, at the Redlands FOX Theatre. Details to come.

Thank you to University Spiritual Care, Employee Spiritual Care and Chaplain’s Services for organizing and providing this week’s programming. Thank you to the many Values Ambassadors on campus that helped promote the week’s opportunities. We appreciate each person who shared in word, in music, or service and pray that each individual was inspired to EXPLORE living, loving, learning and leading as we embrace 2019.

 

]]>
Thu, 17 Jan 2019 09:34:53 -0800
4264:36681 <![CDATA[Hospital Incident Command System training — and you ]]> Government and Joint Commission policies require many healthcare-related job roles to have training for emergencies and disasters in accordance with standard processes called the Hospital Incident Command System — or HICS. Loma Linda University Health will offer this training six times in 2019.

HICS training is a four-hour course and certification is valid for life. The first training is scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 24, from 1–5 p.m. Individuals who may be required to take this training include:

            • Administrators, directors, managers

            • Employees who respond to the Command Center

            • Employees who could be involved in disaster response

The other training dates for 2019 are:

            • March 14, 1–5 p.m.

            • May 16, 1–5 p.m.

            • July 24, 8 a.m.–12 p.m.

            • Sept. 19, 1–5 p.m.

            • Nov. 13, 8 a.m.–12 p.m.

Register for the HICS training course in the OWL Portal, keyword “HICS.” Sign up here. To learn more, call ext. 58444 or email engo@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 17 Jan 2019 09:54:03 -0800
4264:36666 <![CDATA[Notes from the President — Remembering James Slater]]> By Dr. Richard Hart   January 2019
Special Edition
Remembering James M. Slater, 1929 – 2018

Slater and Hart pose together

In retrospect, it is often difficult to tell when a spark ignites a person’s passion and commitment into a dream. In Dr. James Slater’s case, it was an evolutionary process, probably beginning with his mother’s commitment to education and the biographies read by his third grade teacher. From that beginning in Utah, his passion for science, machines, and teaching others took root. 

When James Slater died the day after this past Christmas, at age 89, he left an indelible mark on Loma Linda and its place in history. But his journey was a somewhat convoluted one. Growing up in Utah, he found jobs in the usual places young men worked back then— mining and driving heavy equipment— while putting himself through a degree in physics at the University of Utah. After he moved his growing family to Fontana, California, to take a teaching job, someone suggested he become a doctor. He applied to Loma Linda and graduated in 1963. The emerging discipline of radiation medicine was a natural for him with his background in physics and his inquisitive mind. It was during a fellowship at MD Anderson Hospital in Texas that the challenges of radiation therapy really hit him. 

Jim noted how the impreciseness of radiation mapping and the collateral damage caused to surrounding tissues was devastating to many patients. Then and there, Jim decided there must be a better way. He returned to Loma Linda in 1970 with a growing passion in his heart for finding better radiation options. It would take him 20 years of talking, researching, searching for partners, and finding both political and financial support before proton therapy would become a reality. Others needed to take the gamble with him. Dr. David Hinshaw, with his far-reaching vision and risk taking tendency, believed in Jim and gave the approval to move ahead. I will never forget watching the two of them reconnect a few years ago on campus, two seasoned warriors recalling the challenges encountered and now sharing the sweet taste of victory. 

As is usually the case when developing new technology, the original budget was far exceeded. Generous support from the federal government helped. I was privileged to participate in some of Jim’s “Hill” visits in Washington, making the rounds of various offices. Jerry Lewis, our local congressman, was incredibly helpful in this process, sharing a commitment to Jim’s dream. I will never forget our visits to Jerry’s office in the Rayburn building. We were joined by Steven Jacobs and Elliott Fiedler, our Washington consultants, and Jerry’s wife Arlene, while their “office” dog Bruin made the rounds to each, looking for a friendly pat. To listen to those political veterans recall legislative victories and defeats as they strategized their way to success was a great lesson in Washington politics.

When what was later named the James M. Slater, MD Proton Treatment and Research Center opened in 1990, both praise and criticism intensified. Concerns about the effectiveness and cost of proton therapy rippled across the country for years. Jim patiently explained to numerous groups the benefits of this new type of radiation. Eventually the loudest voices came from thousands of patients themselves, particularly those with prostate cancer, who came to Loma Linda from around the world and claimed success for this unique new approach to cancer treatment. Coalesced into the Brotherhood of the Balloon by a patient, Bob Marckini, this network grew to include thousands of advocates who gave personal testimonies and recommendations to anyone who asked. 

Alongside the parallel breakthrough of infant heart transplantation in 1984 by Len Bailey, this was truly a coming of age for Loma Linda. It gave those of us at Loma Linda, and the many alumni and others who believed in this place, a point of pride and accomplishment as our name became regular fare in the press. We were not just a unique faith based campus stuck in a corner of California. We had contributed to scientific advances in the greatest of ways, bringing new techniques that would impact the world forever.

On this campus, Jim remained a quiet and humble dreamer of dreams. His mind never stopped thinking of new ways to improve and expand radiation therapy, moving beyond cancer to many other diseases. Yet he was always willing to believe in and support others. A personal memory was when this “young buck” was asked to develop a Department of Preventive Medicine and needed several faculty to join our practice group board. Dr. Hinshaw suggested that I approach Jim, but I was hesitant to engage this esteemed senior in a minor departmental duty. But he was both gracious and enthusiastic and attended meetings faithfully. 

I miss Jim’s occasional visits to my office, explaining the intricacies of a federal grant, or suggesting a new disease to treat. His wavy white hair, always calm demeanor, and never ending smile was a welcome addition to any day. Thank you Jim, for what you have given to Loma Linda and future generations.

“Richard 

 

 

Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

 

Vision 2020 – The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow

]]>
Wed, 16 Jan 2019 17:52:24 -0800
4264:36607 <![CDATA[Healthy Lifestyle Walkway inspires employees and pedestrians]]> By Heather Reifsnyder Employees and neighborhood residents alike can catch a little inspiration from a new series of signs along a portion of Barton Road sidewalk that features impactful photography and compelling quotations.

Called the Healthy Lifestyle Walkway, the art installation stretches the journey on Barton Road between the East Campus of Loma Linda University Medical Center and employee parking lot J (in front of Ronald McDonald House). 

East Campus administration intend the signs to encourage employees who traverse the sidewalk to work. Sages quoted on the signs include Maya Angelou, Mother Theresa and Socrates, with their words against a backdrop of uplifting photographs.

The project was a joint effort between East Campus administration, the Living Whole Wellness Program and the Aesthetics Committee at Loma Linda University Health.

]]>
Thu, 10 Jan 2019 10:43:53 -0800
4264:36606 <![CDATA[Truth Lies in Trusting]]> By Terry Swenson Listen to the words of the wise;
apply your heart to my instruction.
For it is good to keep these sayings in your heart
and always ready on your lips.
I am teaching you today — yes, you —
so you will trust in the Lord.
I have written thirty sayingsfor you,
filled with advice and knowledge.
In this way, you may know the truth
and take an accurate report to those who sent you.

–Proverbs 22:17-21 (New Living Translation)

It doesn’t take a doctoral degree to discern that we live in a polarized and contentious age. Politics, science, social causes, you name it! One side disagrees with the other vehemently. There is precious, if any, discourse and conversation. Compromise is a dirty word. It is like the world has turned into everyone shouting at each other at the top of their lungs, but no one is listening to the other. We can see each other, but we don’t really SEE each other. One person’s facts are another person’s false news. Even clear and evident truths are questioned. And, why not?! We live in a time where many adhere to the adage that there is no absolute truth. 

The author in our scriptural text above states that they want us to know truth so that we can be wise, discerning, and live honorable and effective lives. Sigh … how in the world do we accomplish that if there is no foundational truth to agree upon? There is another deep concern that we face. Connectedness is part and parcel of living in the postmodern world. We are connected in a plethora of ways — population proximity, instantaneous media, technology. Just look at your smart phone. How many ways can we be in touch with each other? Texting, email, FaceTime, Snapchat, WhatsApp, Notion, Zoom, etc., etc., etc. Why, you can even call each other (though who does that anymore?). 

Yet, along with connectedness, our culture experiences a plague of loneliness, depression and lack of deep, intimate relationships. How can that be? 

Is it possible that having no basis of truth and lack of trust causes disconnection and an absence of deep relationships? Yes. As you read Proverbs 22:17-21, did you see how trust and truth are inextricably bound together? 

Truth comes from trust. Knowing comes from experiencing. Fact is established by results. Our dearth of deep relationship comes from not trusting the other. Trust comes from the repeated realization that our experience with another is truthful. Without truth there is no trust. But truth cannot be established unless we try it out, test it and experience it. 

That’s what Jesus is talking about in John 14:1,6: “Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. … I am the way, the truth, and the life.” Jesus is saying:

“Try me out! See if you can’t trust me fully! Explore and see if it isn’t true that loving God and loving yourself — which empowers you to love others — is the way to change your life, your relationships, your work and your world!” 

Exploring requires us to leave the tried-and-known of our life and step out on a journey of discovery. How about it? Who knows what you might discover? Then again, maybe we do. 

Terry Swenson, DMin, is director of University Spiritual Care at Loma Linda University.

]]>
Thu, 10 Jan 2019 10:43:45 -0800
4264:36609 <![CDATA[Steam shutdown to Medical Center and Children's Hospital]]> The main steam lines for the Medical Center and Children’s Hospital facilities will shut down at 11 a.m. this Sunday, Jan. 13, for about eight hours. This closure will allow the Central Utility Plant to repair a leak in the high-pressure steam line during this time.

The shutdown will affect heating and hot water, as well as sterile processing, for both hospitals. During the interruption, employees may address concerns to the following:

• Unit leadership
• Facilities Management — ext. 44318 option 1
• Mark Brito, manager of Facilities Management — 909-255-5903
• Security Services — ext. 44320

]]>
Thu, 10 Jan 2019 10:44:05 -0800
4264:36608 <![CDATA[Employees recognized for modeling Living Whole]]> By Heather Reifsnyder

The Living Whole Wellness Program recognized an inspired group of individuals in 2018 as Living Whole Honors recipients. The Honors program celebrates employees who are dedicated to making healthy lifestyle choices and motivating others through their passion for promoting wellness. 

See the list of 2018 honorees below.

An annual nomination process encourages employees to nominate colleagues who contribute to a culture of wellness at Loma Linda University Health.

Get inspired for healthy changes in 2019. If you are interested in free employee wellness programs, contact the Living Whole Wellness Program at 909-651-4007 or livingwhole@llu.edu.

2018 Living Whole Honors recipients

Dorcas Alao

Ivonne Aritonang

William Backy

Stan Baldwin

Kathryn Barker

Joanne Baumach

Juan Carlos Belliard

Sharon Blinci

Kenneth Bradford

Mario Castrejon

Leslee Cook

Beronica Dones

Marina Dos Santos

Karina Driver

Kelly Flood

Christina Franks

Jennifer Grant

Melanie Hanson

Wendi Hayes

Tiffany Hoekstra

Nellie Killion

Robin Lyman

Maribel Macrum

Ernie Medina

Jamie Meert

Jan Michaelis

Shelly Moore

Jessica Mosher

Patricia Munoz 

Anna Nelson

Jim Pinder

Michele Ragsdale

Kelly Reader-Dover

Daniel Sarmiento

Ayesha Sherzai

Eli O. Smith

Toni Tallman

Dolly Ukpong

Pramod Valluru

Deborah Yoder-Rodman

]]>
Thu, 10 Jan 2019 10:43:59 -0800
4264:36610 <![CDATA[Week of Renewal to center around 'Explore' theme]]> Loma Linda University Health’s annual organization-wide Week of Renewal takes place Jan. 14–18, offering spiritual inspiration to students, faculty and employees.

Daily programming, both in-person and online, will center on a theme of “Explore: Live |Love | Learn | Lead.” 

President Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, will kick off the week with a message on the “Joy of Service” for Monday’s morning devotional. Get full details at LomaLindaRenewal.org, where all 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. services will also be broadcast live (and on hospital channel 40.2). The website will also host video recordings of the "Morning Renewal" programs soon afterward for viewing at your convenience.

Two additional components of the week are a sock drive and iAppU messaging. The messaging system, hosted on One Portal, provides an easy way to express appreciation to colleagues, students and leaders. 

The sock drive will collect new socks for SAC Health System to give to patients and clients. Collection bins will be located in the Drayson Center lobby, Behavioral Medicine Center gym, the Medical Center lobby and East Campus staff lounge.

Learn more and download the schedule at the Week of Renewal website.

]]>
Thu, 10 Jan 2019 10:44:11 -0800
4264:36507 <![CDATA[How Rich Are You?]]> By Kathy McMillan One who oppresses the poor to increase his wealth and
 
one who gives gifts to the rich — both come to poverty.
                                                         –Proverbs 22:16

  • He hates his life, but Jay feels trapped by the circumstances. Maybe next week it will get better. He’s been hoping to land the big account, but it seems he has never done quite enough. Even the vacation he put together for the CEO didn’t seal the deal. If he could just get the account, he is certain he would be happy!
  • It’s Jessica’s birthday. After opening her fourth present, the 9-year-old seems bored, but her mother insists she open another. Grandpa and Grandma watch eagerly as she tears the wrapping off the gift from them — an iPhone! She pulls it out of the box and, with little emotion, begins to push buttons. “Say thank you,” her mother prods, inwardly praying the girl will show some form of appreciation. 
  • The barefoot children squeal with glee while playing kickball. There is no Xbox in their home and they share a bicycle, but their laughter fills their home with joy.
  • Jill sits at her desk pouring over the budget numbers once again. It’s 6 p.m. and she longs to be home with her family, but she has to create a budget that is workable. She returned to work last year when she and Jeff decided it would be nice to have some vacation money, but the hours have been grueling and she hates the commute. She doesn’t have time to play with her kids anymore and she is short-tempered a good deal of the time.
  • It’s nearly freezing outside when Luke pulls into the driveway. After being laid off two weeks ago, he has spent nearly every waking hour searching for some way to provide for his family. His wife, Emily, has been so patient — and frugal. They have eaten some kind of beans every night for the past week, but she manages to find ways to season them differently so it seems like a different meal — the kids haven’t even seemed to notice. As he opens the door, he is greeted by three bouncing children, all eager to get the first hug.

Sometimes wealth has little to do with money … How rich are you? 

—Kathy McMillan is director of Employee Spiritual Care for Loma Linda University Medical Center.

]]>
Thu, 03 Jan 2019 09:40:20 -0800
4264:36510 <![CDATA[January's TB test clinic dates]]> Employee Health Services is offering a TB test clinic during the second week of January for staff whose jobs require an annual health screening clearance.

Test placement
Monday, Jan. 7, from 7–9:30 a.m. in Children’s Hospital room 1830

Test reading
Wednesday, Jan. 9, from 9:30–11:30 a.m. in Children’s Hospital room 1832

All TB tests must be read within 48-72 hours after placement, either at the return clinic date above or in Employee Health Services (Faculty Medical Offices suite 1250). Failure to have the TB test read will necessitate another TB test at the employee’s own expense. 

Learn more about TB test options:
• Employee Health Services — Loma Linda campus
• Employee Health Services — LLU Medical Center – Murrieta

New timeline for annual employee health clearances

As of 2019, Loma Linda University Health — including Murrieta campus — is changing the deadline for annual employee health clearances to each employee’s birthdate. More information is available in this story from News of the Week: Date for annual employee health clearances to change

]]>
Thu, 03 Jan 2019 09:40:41 -0800
4264:36509 <![CDATA[CNO Connect goes live]]> January 8, 2019, update

Note from the editor: CNO Connect has been put on pause for the time being. 

]]>
Thu, 03 Jan 2019 09:40:33 -0800
4264:36508 <![CDATA[You're invited — University @ Worship winter 2019]]> University @ Worship will continue with this school year’s theme of “Explore: Live. Love. Learn. Lead.” for the winter academic quarter, beginning Wednesday, Jan. 9, with a musical program presented by Sivasa Laupati. 

Throughout the quarter, the chapel service will meet weekly on Wednesdays from 11–11:50 a.m. at Loma Linda University Church. A special Week of Renewal will take place Jan. 14–18, offering a daily 11 a.m. program. Here is the complete schedule for winter 2019:

Jan. 9— music program with Sivasa Laupati

Jan. 14–18 — Week of Renewal — speaker Lola Johnston, worship leader Elia King

Jan. 23 — Zane Yi, speaker

Jan. 30 — Rebecca Davis, speaker

Feb. 6 — Erik Carter, speaker

Feb. 13 — LLU chaplains

Feb. 20 — Filip Milosavljevic, speaker

Feb. 27 — Samantha Peralta, speaker

March 6 — Miguel Mendez, speaker

March 13 — music program with Dilys Brooks and friends

Learn about the presenters and more at home.llu.edu/spiritualcare.  

]]>
Thu, 03 Jan 2019 09:40:27 -0800
4264:36511 <![CDATA[In Memoriam: James M. Slater, pioneer of proton therapy]]> Loma Linda University Health’s pioneer of proton therapy and noted champion for improving quality of life for cancer patients, James M. Slater, MD, died Dec. 26. He was 89.

Slater’s determination to reduce the suffering associated with cancer treatment led to the creation of the world’s first hospital-based proton treatment center, which opened in 1990 at Loma Linda University Health. The James M. Slater, MD Proton Treatment and Research Center has since treated more than 18,000 patients from around the world, including celebrities and foreign royalty.

Read the full obituary honoring Slater. A service is scheduled to be held in Salt Lake City. Tribute gifts may be made on a memorial page for Slater.

]]>
Thu, 03 Jan 2019 09:40:49 -0800
4264:36512 <![CDATA[Notes from the President — Remembering Ellsworth Wareham]]> By Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   January 2019
Remembering Ellsworth Wareham, 1914 – 2018

Dr. Richard Hart portrait

While growing up in a small country school in northern Idaho, before technology overwhelmed all that we do, books were our friends. I devoured every story of the pioneers — from George Washington, Paul Revere, and Thomas Jefferson to Daniel Boone, Kit Carson and Jedediah Smith. Imagine my delight and wonder years later to discover one of Kit Carson’s regular stops was Fort San Bernardino, now next door to Loma Linda.

With that reverence for history and the people who shaped it, it was easy for me to admire the life and impact of heart surgeon Ellsworth Wareham, long before I met the man. During the 1960s, while my generation was considering med school and Loma Linda University in particular, Dr. Wareham stood tall as one who carried the best of Loma Linda’s traditions of teaching and healing around the world. We marveled at the adventures of the Overseas Heart Surgery Team (which he co-founded) and their ability to enter strange countries and places, as well as their accolades from high government officials — all heady stuff for a little university tucked away in a corner of California!

We have now lost most principals from that early team — Wilfred Huse, Lavaun Sutton, Roy Jutzy, Joan Coggin, and now Ellsworth Wareham. Ironic that Joan and Ellsworth passed away within a few weeks of each other after co-leading such a remarkable group for so many years. But stories and reputations linger, and Loma Linda University Health is still remembered as the place that fixes hearts. We are indebted to another School of Medicine alum, artist Wesley Kime, who captured the character of Dr. Wareham and so many of these illustrious faculty in his paintings, soon to be displayed in the Alumni Hall for Basic Sciences.

As the death of Dr. Wareham, at 104 years and 2 months, has sunk in, many memories come back. Still assisting at surgery until he was well into his 90s, he always downplayed his accomplishments and gave credit to others for both his longevity and his influence. One story I recall was when he was 94 and noticed the fence in his backyard needed some repairs. He went to Home Depot for supplies and fixed his fence. The next day he ended up in the hospital — doing heart surgery! Over the past few decades he became a national celebrity associated with Loma Linda’s “Blue Zone” halo. He credited his vegan diet and continued physical activity, along with his faith in a personal God, for being able to function so well for so long.

Wareham led the heart team to 14 different countries, always with one proviso — they were not going to come until there was a heart team there, ready to be taught heart surgery and all its necessary support functions. They wanted to leave something behind that could continue to bless others. His centennial birthday celebration four years ago brought together many from around the world who learned the intricacies of heart surgery from him and then went on to help untold thousands of others.  

Even to the end, he belied the stereotype of surgeons, with a quiet demeanor and humble spirit, full of humor and self-deprecation. His wife of 68 years, Barbara, complemented him well. They lived simply, enjoying their five children, eight grandchildren and six great grandchildren. Their previous home in Oak Glen was a favorite gathering destination for medical school classes for many years.

One of my favorite patient stories was the search by a Vietnamese lady to find the team who successfully performed surgery on her at age 14 in Saigon in 1974. After escaping the country and settling in British Columbia, Canada, she started wondering years later about the unknown doctors who came to her country and saved her life. A few years ago, on the suggestion of a friend, she wrote a “To Whom it May Concern” letter to Loma Linda University Health, asking if anyone there had been in Vietnam in 1974 doing heart surgery. When the pictures and stories matched, she offered to cut Dr. Wareham’s and School of Medicine Dean Roger Hadley’s hair as a thank you, since Roger was a senior medical student on that trip. So they let their hair grow long, then flew to her beauty salon in Victoria, BC, for a joyous reunion and haircut. See that incredible video here.

So what is remembered when life is done and others reflect on the impact of an individual? Surely there will be many and varied memories of Dr. Wareham that will be told and cherished. I am honored to say that I knew and admired the man for his life devoted to helping others, for his determined approach to any new challenge, and his free acknowledgement of the role that many played in support of his accomplishments. Loma Linda has lost one of its great exemplars of all that we stand for. Though our mission statement came long after his landmark work, he was certainly the embodiment of “Continuing the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ.”

“Richard 

 

 

Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

 

Vision 2020 – The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow

]]>
Thu, 03 Jan 2019 09:40:55 -0800
4264:36456 <![CDATA[Moving closer to God's corrective wisdom, and farther from the heart's foolishness]]> By Carl A. Ricketts Jr. Foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child;

The rod of discipline will remove it far from him.

–Proverbs 22:15

Back in college, I had a friend who seemingly always commentated after viewing a gaffe, error or life-altering experience of someone close to him. He would observe what a person was going through, wait until the moment had passed and then inquire if they were aware of the mistake. He would speak up after various life experiences, ranging from relationship struggles to sports blunders or financial crisis. I recall he once asked me, in a calm tone, “You know you ran through that red light, right?”

I responded, “No, I didn’t even see it!” I went on to ask, “Why didn’t you tell me?”

He peered into my eyes, speaking in a slow, deliberate, rhythmic tone and said, “You must learn — from your — foolishness!” Everyone in the car laughed. Although we should have been startled after running through a red light, we were laughing uncontrollably as our friend found another moment to remind us of our foolishness. 

We don’t always get to learn from our foolishness in this manner. In fact, there may even be moments when we are corrected in the midst of our foolishness. Whether in the middle of our folly or after the act, this correction may not feel good, and it definitely may not evoke laughter. But one thing that correction can do is put us on the right path. 

This wisdom text (Proverbs 22:15) speaks to an individual who is arrested — mentally or spiritually — but gains an advantage because another took the time to share discipline. 

Experiences and behavior shape the moral development of a child. While children learn many lessons in morality, they sometimes choose to settle on landing spots — almost waiting to see if they will be challenged to move forward by a new lesson of correction. Some may find ways of avoiding correction, placing themselves in environments where they are not challenged to do what is right. And some may encircle themselves with peers who think like they do, avoiding opportunities to see and hear a different perspective on a matter.

If a parent can pay attention to the foolishness in the heart of a child and intervene consistently, with discipline rooted in love, that child will see that having their way cannot compare to the wisdom gained; in turn, that will get them through life’s most difficult moments. 

The challenge is for us adults as well. We should be open to receiving the discipline of our Heavenly Father and those He places on our paths, which removes the foolishness that is bound up in our hearts.

As we prepare for the new year, let us be willing to leave the cozy confines of our homogenous environments and explore right living. Let us be willing to speak and listen to people outside of our comfort zones of dialogue and model right living.

We all might be surprised; the more we get closer to others through God’s corrective wisdom, the farther we move from the foolishness of our own heart.

—Carl Ricketts Jr., MDiv, is director of Chaplain Services for Loma Linda University Medical Center.

]]>
Thu, 20 Dec 2018 10:09:13 -0800
4264:36472 <![CDATA[Exciting changes coming to cafeteria at Councilors Student Pavilion]]> 2019 will bring a new cafeteria experience for diners at the Councilors Student Pavilion at Loma Linda University. The changes will allow more customers to be served more quickly while offering them a greater variety of choices and more seating.

More details will be coming, but here is what to expect while the work rolls out:

• The cafeteria will be closed Dec 21. through Jan. 2.
• From Jan. 2–4, service will be limited.
• The new menu will “softly” roll out in the second week of January through March 15 as an evaluation period. Additional changes may occur after spring break.

]]>
Thu, 20 Dec 2018 11:13:51 -0800
4264:36457 <![CDATA[Discovering health policy: a summary from the Institute for Health Policy and Leadership]]> News of the Week presents the December 2018 monthly roundup of resources from the Institute for Health Policy and Leadership at Loma Linda University Health. 

In addition, previewed below is the next Spotlight on Health Policy event, taking place Wednesday, Jan. 30.

The Institute for Health Policy and Leadership is an active player in analyzing current issues, bills and laws dealing with health; curating coverage of key national news regarding healthcare, public health and science; and assessing implications for Seventh-day Adventist health systems.

December 2018 policy resources 

Healthcare News at a Glance weekly briefs

• Dec. 19 issue
• 
Dec. 12 issue
• 
Dec. 5 issue

Issue at a Glance monthly brief 

“Barriers to Healthcare Access for Immigrants in the US”

Policy at a Glance monthly briefs (November and December)

 Health Policy Connection blog posts

 Event: Spotlight on Health Policy

The next Spotlight on Health Policy event will take place Wednesday, Jan. 30, from noon to 1 p.m. at Loma Linda University Medical Center’s A-level Amphitheater.

An expert panel will lead an informative conversation on emergency visits by the homeless population in “Chronic Homelessness: Hospitals, Streets, or Homes?”

Learn more: ihpl@llu.edu or ext. 87022

 

]]>
Thu, 20 Dec 2018 10:11:14 -0800
4264:36459 <![CDATA[Season 4 of 'Life on the Line' premieres on PBS]]> The documentary TV series Life on the Line began airing its fourth season Dec. 19 on PBS affiliate Empire Network (KVCR TV 24) and will play each Wednesday at 7 p.m. through Jan. 23. 

Narrated by celebrity journalist Lisa Ling, Life on the Line season four features six half-hour episodes sharing stories of strength and resilience from around the world and locally, including stories from Loma Linda University Health.

Life on the Line will be launched to all PBS stations in the nation in January 2019. For the full schedule, episode previews and more information about the show, visit lifeontheline.tv.

Patricia Kelikani, producer of Life on the Line, said the show hopes to inspire viewers across the nation to celebrate the good in people and their resilience. “It’s an honor to bring real stories of hope and courage to television,” she said.

Visit news.llu.edu to read a full story on the program’s release.

]]>
Thu, 20 Dec 2018 10:43:22 -0800
4264:36460 <![CDATA[A new online look debuts for Children's Health and Medical Center – Murrieta]]> There is a new online experience for Loma Linda University Children’s Health and Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta. The new websites are found at lluch.org and murrieta.lluh.org, helping patients and families find what they’re looking for as quickly and conveniently as possible.

The redesigned websites offer a user-focused experience with a fresh look. The design offers streamlined menus, user-focused navigation and optimized layouts for mobile platforms and more.

The new Murrieta and Children’s Health websites come just months after Loma Linda University Health launched its new organization-wide site at lluh.org. The websites are designed for the busy consumer who uses multiple digital technologies to search for and access healthcare.

]]>
Thu, 20 Dec 2018 10:44:24 -0800
4264:36461 <![CDATA[In Memoriam: Celebrating the lives of two heart pioneers ]]> Loma Linda University Health lost two of its pioneering physicians recently. Joan Coggin, MD, passed away at age 90 on November 29 (read her obituary here). Ellsworth Wareham, MD, died just 16 days later at age 104 (read his obituary here).

These two trailblazers co-founded the Loma Linda University Overseas Heart Surgery Team in 1963. Established at a time when few hospitals performed open-heart surgery, the Overseas Heart Surgery Team was founded at the request of the John F. Kennedy administration to help build goodwill overseas, first in Pakistan. From those first surgeries in Pakistan, these two innovators went on to visit dozens of countries, with the team performing more open-heart surgeries than any similar organization.

Through their passion for helping others, their service established a legacy of healing around the world — a legacy Loma Linda University Health strives to live up to each day. They were both willing to take on large tasks, trusting in God’s leading, and unafraid of failure. We will miss them.

]]>
Thu, 20 Dec 2018 10:45:58 -0800
4264:36470 <![CDATA[Loma Linda University Health 2018 year in pictures]]> By Sheann Brandon As the year of 2018 comes to a close, relive some of Loma Linda University Health's best moments through the year in pictures.

]]>
Thu, 20 Dec 2018 11:11:30 -0800
4264:36462 <![CDATA[Video report — final steel beam raised for new Medical Center tower]]> By Sheann Brandon Loma Linda University Medical Center celebrated the Topping Off Ceremony for its new hospital tower on Dec. 11 with several hundred administrators, employees, construction workers and community members watching as the ceremonial final steel beam was put in place. 

The topping-off of the tower is the latest milestone toward completion of the new Loma Linda University Medical Center and Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital facilities.

“We’ve planned for a new Loma Linda University Medical Center and Children’s Hospital tower for many years,” Kerry Heinrich, CEO of Loma Linda University Medical Center, said in an address to attendees at the ceremony. “While there is still much to do before this project is complete, this Topping Off Ceremony brings us one giant leap closer to that reality.”

Event video:

]]>
Thu, 20 Dec 2018 10:46:31 -0800
4264:36401 <![CDATA[Employee kindness overflows]]> By Heather Reifsnyder The Season of Gratitude at Loma Linda University Health gave employees concrete ways to express thankfulness and appreciation. 

Gratitude helps both giver and receiver, says director of chaplain services for Loma Linda University Medical Center, Carl Ricketts Jr., MDiv, BCC. “Gratitude allows you to feel good, but it also enables you to do good,” he noted.

There were several parts to Season of Gratitude:

Food drive for SAC Health System

Employees were asked to donate non-perishable foods and drop them off at any of 15 locations across Loma Linda University Health.

They responded generously, making this year’s food drive the most successful to date. A number of departments held friendly competitions to gather the most items. Together, the departments of Risk Management and Health Information Management donated the most: 174 boxes full. Adding their own flair, Loma Linda University Health Care clinics had a contest for the best decorated collection boxes. Photos.

The bounty was given to SAC Health System, which distributes food through its Community Resource Center to families struggling to provide good nutrition for their children. The community resource team sends heartfelt appreciation to all at Loma Linda University Health who contributed to this important project.

Notes of appreciation — iAppU

Loma Linda University Health also marked the Thanksgiving Season of Gratitude by offering an easy way to express appreciation for fellow employees, students and leaders — iAppU notes. 

Employees sent 1,148 messages to each other through the app!

Visible expressions of thanks

Six Season of Gratitude banners were placed through Loma Linda University Health hospitals, and another 14 were displayed in university areas of campus. Employees expressed their reasons for thankfulness in colorful ink (above).

]]>
Thu, 13 Dec 2018 10:29:04 -0800
4264:36402 <![CDATA[A Loose Woman and a Pit]]> By Carla Park The mouth of a loose woman is a deep pit;
he with whom the Lord is angry falls into it.

–Proverbs 22:14 

Nobody wants to fall into a hole. Several examples come to mind: Alice’s fall into the rabbit hole, Jessica McClure’s fall into a backyard well (1987), and the more recent fall of a baby onto train tracks in India. We fear falling into the unknown dangerous place. And if we happen to escape falling in the real world, we encounter it in dreams, nightmares or imagination. Who, after all, has not feared their plane falling out of the sky? Falling into the unknown is frightening, whether real or imagined. 

Once I bungee jumped. Once. Up to that point I had never encountered the fear I felt that day — of jumping into the rope that was attached for my safety. The logic was mind-bending. It seemed the rope should extend upwards, to some firmly established location above my head. To see the rope dangling from my waist was mind-blowing. To jump into it came close to being the most courageous (and dumbest) thing I have ever done.

We guard against this type of fall. We establish precautions, rules, guards, covers. We reroute, put up guardrails, and refuse entrance at certain times of year in relation to holes we don’t want to fall into — unless of course it is the Grand Canyon, and then we plan ahead for the long trip down, measured and slow. 

Many years ago I met a young man who piloted a two-seater plane with a red nose. It looked like a cartoon version of a puppy. “Want to fly the length of the Grand Canyon under the rim with me?” Today that would be impossible, but then it wasn’t. Today I would be scared. Then I wasn’t. We took off like two adventurers, completely oblivious to the potential danger, holding our breath at the colored veins and wonder of the canyon.

Proverbs 22:14 tells us that “The mouth of a loose woman is a deep pit” — two strong metaphors linked together. Both are deceptively beautiful and dangerous. We discount the loose woman metaphor because she seems far away from us — “across the tracks,” so to speak. But she isn’t. 

She is as close as our own thoughts and misplaced intentions. We embody her anytime we dress something up to look like something other than it is. We embody her when we flatter for personal gain or invite others to places or behaviors that are not life-giving. And the hole this leads to is dark and dangerous, although at first glance it is filled with wonder and beauty. Anyone who has fallen into one knows.

The loose woman is not “over there.” She is in our own hearts, tempting us to hide around the corner, speak with ear-tickling words, and “dress for success.” We are the holes that others fall into. Proverbs is describing a truth about a loose woman and a pit. 

It could apply to anybody. Everybody. Staying clear of the loose woman or the pit is not as easy as one would think. 

—Carla Park, PhD, is assistant vice president for Spiritual Life and Mission at Loma Linda University Health.

]]>
Thu, 13 Dec 2018 10:29:16 -0800
4264:36408 <![CDATA[Business schedule changes for Christmas and New Year's ]]> Administrative and support departments at Loma Linda University Health will reduce their business days during the Christmas and New Year’s holidays. Christmas will be celebrated as a five-day weekend (Friday through Tuesday, Dec. 21– 25), and observance of New Year’s Eve and Day will create office closures on Dec. 31 and Jan. 1.

This applies to departments such as Risk Management, Human Resource Management, Payroll, Employee Health Services (main campus and Murrieta), Marketing & Communications, administrative offices, and more. However, all clinical departments will retain their normal holiday schedules and staffing.

Employees who have any questions about how this schedule change will impact them or their department may contact their supervisor or call Human Resource Management at ext. 14001.

The following specific changes will result from holiday schedules; the list is not exhaustive.

Paid leave policy  

Normal holiday pay procedures will apply for Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. 

For the additional vacation days in offices that will be closed — Dec. 21, 24 and 31 — the following pay procedures are in place:

Benefit-eligible hourly employees may either use paid leave or unpaid “budget hours” (benefits will still accrue). Budget time does not apply to salaried employees. 

Salaried employees are expected to use paid leave to cover the additional vacation days. If a salaried employee does not have enough paid leave for the extra days off, the payroll system will automatically allow the paid leave balance to go in the negative. If a salaried employee is needed at work on these days, their time should be reported as a day of work.

Questions? Please contact your supervisor or call Human Resource Management at ext. 14001.

Department of Payroll — hours and year-end deadlines

Payroll will have the following reduced business hours:

Dec. 14: close early at 11 a.m. (reopening 8 a.m. on the 27th)
Dec. 21–25: fully closed
Dec. 31: fully closed
Jan. 1: fully closed

Payroll deadlines will be as follows: 

Loma Linda University and LLU Health Care — pay period ending Dec. 22, 2018

• Payroll adjustment forms are due by Wednesday, Dec. 19, at 5 p.m.
• Approvers must sign-off on employee timecards by Sunday, Dec. 23, at 9 a.m.
• Employees must enter calendar and clocking requests by Sunday, Dec. 23, at 8 a.m.

LLU Medical Center, Medical Center – Murrieta, Children’s Hospital, Behavioral Medicine Center and Loma Linda University Health Education Consortium — pay period ending Dec. 29, 2018

• Payroll adjustment forms are due by Wednesday, Dec. 26, at 5 p.m.
• Approvers must sign-off on employee timecards by Sunday, Dec. 30, at 9 a.m.
• Employees must enter calendar and clocking requests by Sunday, Dec. 30, at 8 a.m.

Off-cycle checks:

Due to the above schedule as well as year-end projects, off-cycle checks will not be processed on the following days: 

            • Friday, Dec. 14
            • Friday, Dec. 21
            • Monday, Dec. 24
            • Tuesday, Dec. 25
            • Wednesday, Dec. 26
            • Friday, Dec. 28
            • Monday, Dec. 31
            • Tuesday, Jan. 1
            • Wednesday, Jan. 2

Questions? Contact Payroll at ext. 14004 or payroll@llu.edu.

Employee Health Services — influenza vaccinations and TB tests

Employee Health Services, at both the Loma Linda and Murrieta locations, will be closed Dec. 21–25 and Dec. 29–Jan 1.

Flu vaccinations and TB tests are affected as follows:

• The last day to have a TB test placed prior to Christmas will be Tuesday, Dec. 18, at both locations.
• The last day to have a TB test placed prior to New Year’s will be Wednesday, Dec. 26, at both locations.

• At the Loma Linda campus, influenza vaccinations will be available by paging the House Supervisor at 2005 as follows: 

Dec. 21–25 and Dec. 31–Jan. 1
     - Overnight: 6 p.m.–6 a.m. Monday through Friday
     - 24 hours/day on Saturdays and Sundays

• Influenza vaccinations will not be available at the Murrieta campus during the holidays.

Drayson Center

The Drayson Center’s holiday hours are as follows:     

• Friday, Dec. 21: Open 5:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. for exercising
      Admin offices/membership services closed

• Sunday, Dec. 23: Open 5:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. for exercising
      Membership services closed

• Monday–Tuesday, Dec. 24–25: Entire facility closed for Christmas

• Friday, Dec. 28: Open 5:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. for exercising
      Admin offices/membership services closed

• Sunday, Dec. 30: Open 5:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. for exercising 
      Membership services closed

• Monday–Tuesday, Dec. 31–Jan. 1: Entire facility closed for New Year’s

Return to business

All normal business hours and services will resume campus-wide on Wednesday, Jan. 2, 2019.

Happy Holidays from Loma Linda University Health!

]]>
Thu, 13 Dec 2018 10:51:08 -0800
4264:36406 <![CDATA[Hospital visiting restrictions enacted for influenza season]]> Effective Dec. 17, Loma Linda University Health will be implementing visitor limitations within the hospitals due to influenza season. While these temporary policies might cause inconveniences, the goal is the overall health and well-being of our patients, visitors and hospital staff.

Visitors will be limited to individuals 18 years of age and older who are without the following symptoms:

            • Fever
            • Chills
            • Cough
            • Sore throat
            • Runny or stuffy nose
            • Body aches
            • Headache

Signage and handouts with this information will be going up at different entry locations throughout the Loma Linda University Health hospital campuses.

]]>
Thu, 13 Dec 2018 10:44:46 -0800
4264:36403 <![CDATA[Policy for cashing out paid leave to change in 2019]]> Last week Loma Linda University Health announced a significant change to the policy for cashing out paid leave. The policy update was made to align with Internal Revenue Service guidelines.  

The new policy stipulates that employees who wish to cash out a portion of their paid leave hours that accrue in 2019 will now need to submit a one-time, irrevocable electronic request by Dec. 31, 2018. Up to 80 hours earned in 2019 may be cashed out — if the employee maintains at least 80 hours of paid leave in their bank at the time the cash-out is processed (up to 40 hours in July 2019 and up to 40 hours in December 2019).

Note: LLU Medical Center – Murrieta has a separate paid-leave policy; this change does not apply to Murrieta campus.

Updates to initial announcement

In response to concerns expressed by employees who were planning to cash out paid leave in early 2019 and employees who are nearing their maximum allowed accrual of paid leave, two changes are being implemented.

(1) The maximum paid leave accrual limit is being increased to 400 hours, effective with the first pay period of 2019. 

(2) All employees will be allowed to cash out up to 80 hours of paid leave before 2018 year’s end — in addition to any hours previously cashed out in 2018. This can be done in API. Instructions. The deadlines to do so are as follows:

• Pay period ending Dec. 15, 2018, for LLU Medical Center, Children’s Hospital, Behavioral Medicine Center and Shared Services

• Pay period ending Dec. 22, 2018, for Loma Linda University and LLU Health Care 

Full details are found in the memo attached below. To ask questions, contact the Payroll department at payroll@llu.edu or ext. 14004.

 

]]>
Thu, 13 Dec 2018 10:29:22 -0800
4264:36405 <![CDATA[Cancer Center appoints research directors]]> The Loma Linda University Cancer Center has designated directors for three of the research programs that will be instrumental in the organization’s drive to become a National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. 

“These three directors are leading important initiatives and setting up key collaborations with researchers across campus,” said Mark E. Reeves, MD, PhD, director of the Cancer Center.

Kim Payne, PhD, will serve as the director of the Pediatric Leukemia Research Program. She is an associate professor at the School of Medicine and CEO of Elf Zone, a company of Loma Linda University Health’s business incubator. She is also the director of Translational Research in both the School of Medicine and the Cancer Center.

Frankis Almaguel, MD, PhD, will serve as the director of the Molecular Imaging and Therapeutics Research Program. He is an assistant professor at the School of Medicine and is a member of both the Cancer Center and the Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine.

Pramil Singh, DrPH, will serve as the director of the Tobacco Cessation Research Program. He is an associate professor at the School of Public Health and program director of the school’s Center for Health Research.

]]>
Thu, 13 Dec 2018 10:41:19 -0800
4264:36404 <![CDATA[Fanfare as final steel beam — signed by employees — installed for new Medical Center tower]]> A crowd of several hundred administrators, employees, construction workers and community members watched during a Dec. 11 Topping Off Ceremony as the ceremonial final steel beam was put in place on top of the future Medical Center tower at Loma Linda University Health.  

Illuminated with hundreds of colorful signatures added by employees Dec. 6 and 7, the beam was lifted and lowered into place by a crane to become part of the tower’s helipad ramp. The beam was also traditionally adorned with an evergreen tree on one side and the American flag on the other. 

To find out why, see photos of the Topping Off, and learn more about the future home of Loma Linda University Medical Center and a new Children’s Hospital tower, read the full story at news.llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 13 Dec 2018 10:29:28 -0800
4264:36326 <![CDATA[Video report — Loma Linda University Health hospitals receive recognition for top quality]]> Briana Pastorino and Heather Jackson Highlighting its nationally recognized achievements in patient safety and quality, Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital was named a Top Children’s Hospital for the second year in a row, and Loma Linda University Medical Center – East Campus received its inaugural recognition as a Top Teaching Hospital by The Leapfrog Group, an independent hospital watchdog organization. The Leapfrog Top Hospital awards are widely acknowledged as one of the most competitive honors American hospitals can receive.

Representatives from Loma Linda University Health accepted the Leapfrog Top Hospital Awards in Washington, D.C. on Tuesday, Dec. 4.

Capturing more is this video report from the nation’s capital.

]]>
Thu, 06 Dec 2018 11:19:15 -0800
4264:36312 <![CDATA[Don't let the lions keep you indoors ]]> Randy Roberts Have you run across any of these bumper stickers?

• Why do today what you can put off till tomorrow?

• National Procrastination Week has been postponed till next week.

• I put the “pro” in procrastination!

• I’m taking care of my procrastination issues — just you wait and see!

• Procrastinate now. Don’t put it off!

• From a procrastination standpoint, today has been wildly successful!

• I’m not a procrastinator. I just prefer doing my work in a deadline-induced panic!

What do you think when you read those? I can remember one of my procrastination experiences in seminary. I was at Andrews University in Michigan. Regarding the study required and the expectations given, the seminary was more challenging than undergraduate college had been. Significantly more reading and writing were required. College papers had been in the 5-10 pages; seminary papers were in the 20–25 pages. Professors might require a certain number of hours of reading rather than a certain number of pages. The problem was that you couldn’t skim read. And the hours didn’t get any shorter toward the end of the quarter.

I should have known not to procrastinate. But when spring quarter came, the snow melted, the flowers bloomed, the grass turned green, and the air felt warm, everyone wanted to be outside — including me. Trips to nearby Warren Dunes at Lake Michigan were popular. It was so easy to procrastinate, and that’s what I did until I had to do it in a last-minute panic.

You’ve been there. And so, apparently, have others deep in the dim past of our biblical heritage, because the wise man who wrote the wisdom of the book of Proverbs wrote quite often about procrastination, about putting things off, and about simple laziness.

Consider, for example, Proverbs 22:13. Here’s how the New Living Translation renders it:

The lazy person claims, “There’s a lion out there!

If I go outside, I might be killed!”

And so that person stays inside, stays safe, stays in bed, and leaves the work for another “safer” day. What are the “lions” in your life? What are the things that cause you to put off what needs to be done today? What are your personal reasons for procrastination? There are many options, you know. Such as:

• If I don’t do it now, it will be easier when I do have to do it.

• If I wait till later, maybe I won’t have to do it at all!

• I have too many other things I’d rather do — need to do — at the moment.

• I can’t do it perfectly, so I just won’t do it. At least not until I get things all perfectly lined up to do it.

• I just don’t have the energy right now.

Some live in a lion-infested world.

So what can help? Consider these simple suggestions.

The courage it requires to act right now turns into that wonderful feeling that comes when the task is done. So, remember how you’ll feel when it’s done, and remember how you’ll feel if you don’t do it.

Further, it probably takes more energy to avoid the task than just simply to do it. Then ask God for strength to face the unlikeable right now.

Don’t forget: Jesus is the ultimate lion-tamer.

Randy Roberts, DMin, is vice president for spiritual life and mission at Loma Linda University Health. 

]]>
Thu, 06 Dec 2018 10:14:16 -0800
4264:36315 <![CDATA[Living Whole Wellness Program presents Wellness Live — The Gift of Gratitude]]> The Living Whole Wellness Program will host a free live-streamed presentation on Wednesday, December 12 from 5:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. Viewers will be able to ask questions and interact live with featured speaker Carl Ricketts, Jr., MDiv, director of Chaplain Services, about gratitude. 

The live presentation will be hosted by Olivia Moses, DrPH, CWHC, director of corporate health and wellness at Loma Linda University Health.

The live stream will be available at LLUH’s Facebook page or on myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole/wellnesslive.

For more information, call 909-651-4007.

Viewers, who missed last month’s live broadcast on Men’s Health, can view it on demand, along with numerous past presentations, in the Wellness Live archive.  

]]>
Thu, 06 Dec 2018 10:17:24 -0800
4264:36313 <![CDATA[Fighting cancer in the kitchen: A free cooking demonstration]]> A free cooking demonstration offered by the Living Whole Wellness Program and Loma Linda University Cancer Center will feature Chef Esmerelda Valluru, MS, RD, demonstrating a holiday meal featuring cancer-fighting foods and Andy Woodward, MS, RD, CSO teaching about cancer-fighting foods. 

The demonstration will follow with a discussion of nutrient content and taste-testing. Attendees will enjoy samples and leave with take-home recipes.   

The free event takes place from 6 – 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, December 12, in the kitchen at Nichol Hall. Seating is limited. Please RSVP by calling ext. 14007.

This event is part of the 2018 series of cancer-fighting foods demonstrations. 

]]>
Thu, 06 Dec 2018 10:14:36 -0800
4264:36317 <![CDATA[Learning to Lead — Supporting our millennials ]]> The Learning to Lead (L2L) program will host a Christmas Mixer on Dec. 19 designed for millennials. The mixer is scheduled for should be 6-7:30 p.m. at LLUH 101 East Redlands Blvd, San Bernardino, 92408. The featured speaker will be Kerry Heinrich, JD, CEO for Loma Linda University Medical Center, who will talk about the lessons he’s learned in his career.

The Learning to Lead initiative serves to provide networking and growth opportunities for the organization’s millennial-aged professionals, who make up approximately half of the employees at Loma Linda University Health, according to Human Resource Management.

Departments are encouraged to support their employees of this age group in taking time during work hours to participate in Learning to Lead programs and activities. RSVP by Dec. 19.

Learning to Lead is a grassroots program helmed by millennial employees.

“These employees are the future of our organization,” said David Conkerite II, MBA, director of management residency and business internship programs.  

Opportunities to learn and be mentored

Learning to Lead will offer a variety of opportunities for career development for millennials, such as:

• Leadership conversations—lunch & learns, development seminars, panel discussions.

• Small groups and clubs—public speaking, book clubs, cooking clubs, think tanks and more. 

• Networking and socializing—mixers, vespers, interactive events.

Mentors and speakers for future L2L programs are needed; leaders and subject matter experts of all ages are welcome to sign-up to participate and share ideas.

To discover more about Learning to Lead, please email L2L@llu.edu or contact Katie Heinrich at 909-651-4001 (or ext. 14001).

]]>
Thu, 06 Dec 2018 10:18:44 -0800
4264:36316 <![CDATA[The Living Whole Wellness Program — helping you get unstuck]]> The New Year is a great time to get Unstuck. If you have encountered difficulties following through with your goals, resolve to make 2019 different. Join the Unstuck Program and learn how to make your New Year’s resolutions stick.

The Unstuck Program is provided by the Living Whole Wellness Program and serves as a cognitive educational program for people struggling to make healthy changes. It will help you set goals, create an action plan and stay motivated.

The eight-week program is open to Loma Linda University Health employees and covered spouses; the program is free when attendance and program requirements are met.

The program starts Tuesday, January 15, 2019, at 5:30 p.m. Register by Friday, January 11, 2019. To register and receive additional information, call the Living Whole Wellness Program at ext. 14007. 

Classes are held at 101 E. Redlands Blvd., San Bernardino, CA 92408.

This program offers personalized services; therefore, a one-on-one appointment with your facilitator is required before the program start date. For more information, visit http://myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole/unstuck/

]]>
Thu, 06 Dec 2018 10:17:56 -0800
4264:36314 <![CDATA[Date for annual employee health clearances to change]]> Beginning next year, Employee Health Services will be changing the annual health clearance requirements from the annual clearance date to the birthdate.

This change was approved by the Human Resource Management Hospital Committee in October 2018.

The goal for transitioning from the hire date to the birthdate is:

  • Improve compliance for the annual health clearance, as birthdates are easier for employees to remember
  • Simplify transitions between entities
  • Provide accurate and reliable reports

The transition is expected to take one year.

Transition process

In the 2019 transition year, employees must visit one of the Employee Health Services locations below — either on their hire date or birthdate, whichever comes first — to ensure compliance with their clearance requirements.

Most employees will need two TB skin tests to maintain annual compliance as we transition to a birthdate clearance deadline. Employee Health Services will accept a TB skin test from an outside location — as long as the test is within the employee’s birth month.

For healthcare and Shared Service employees, annual TB tests and clearances are available at monthly clinics located in the Medical Center or Children’s Hospital. Clinic dates are posted on PeoplePortal or the Employee Health Services website.

Monday-Friday walk-in appointments are available at Employee Health Services located at the FMO Suite 1250 from 7 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. or by appointment beginning at 12:30 p.m. TB tests and clearances can also be done at off-site mobile clinic locations that are pre-scheduled monthly at the specific locations. Please check with your department for dates and times.

*This excludes Thursdays due to the read time of 48-72 hours. The department is closed on weekends.

A monthly TB compliance report, along with the report of the employees who will be due in the following 30 days, will be sent out to all department heads and vice presidents on or around the 10th of each month.

More info: 909-558-8797, option 3

For Murrieta locations, employees are welcome to schedule an appointment in Murrieta's Employee Health Services at the following times:

  • Monday-Thursday 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
  • Employee Health Services located at the Professional Office Building Suite 220B           
  • Please call 951-290-4571 for an appointment.

For general information on Employee Health Services, please visit their website.

]]>
Thu, 06 Dec 2018 10:15:06 -0800
4264:36324 <![CDATA['Top Workplace' recognition goes to 6 Loma Linda University Health entities]]> By Sheann Brandon Loma Linda University Health and six of its entities have been recognized as a 2018 Top Workplace by the Inland News Group, exemplifying employees’ belief in the mission and values of the organization and their engagement in the workplace.

The entities recognized were Loma Linda University Medical Center, Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital, Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center, Loma Linda University Shared Services, Loma Linda University Health Care, and Loma Linda University.

“Our 17,000 employees choose to work here for the opportunity to make a difference in this community,” said Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health.

Read the full story at news.llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 06 Dec 2018 11:09:01 -0800
4264:36247 <![CDATA[The Drive-By Homeless Helper]]> By Carla Park The eyes of the Lord keep watch over knowledge,
but he overthrows the words of the faithless.

–Proverbs 22:12

A small Honda Civic screeches to a stop in front of me. I step back in fear as I stand in an empty parking lot on Thanksgiving evening. The driver rolls down his window. “I’m not from around here,” he says excitedly, “Can you tell me where the homeless are?”

“The homeless?!” 

“Yeah, I hear they hang around this mall, but I only found one.” The young man talks as if he is looking for birds or Easter eggs or something, but seems sincere.

I feel a mixture of anger and pity. “If you go west about 5 miles, you will find some homeless people there,” I explain.

“Well, I am headed east and I’ve got bags of warm turkey sandwiches getting cold. I want to deliver them while they’re hot. Any chance there are some who live that direction?” We both stare at each other: me judging him for offering “drive-by help for the homeless,” and him judging me for my judgmental silence.

Proverbs 22:12 compares two types of people: [those who hath] knowledge versus those who speak “the words of the faithless.” 

Which of us in this story “has knowledge”? The young driver has warm turkey sandwiches to share with people, but he does not know where they are. My husband and I ate our “turkey” sandwiches (vegan, though they be) at a large table filled with friends. We know where the homeless are but have no turkey sandwiches.

God promises to watch over knowledge, or [those who hath] knowledge. I suspect that neither I nor the driver has it quite right. We each have pieces that are correct. The exchange of glances judges us both correctly. I direct the driver to an area close by where he will, in fact, find people who are homeless. The Drive-By Homeless Helper speeds off in that direction.

And leaves me in a cloud of thoughts. 

Will he find them? Will they appreciate the hot turkey sandwiches? What will they do the next day and the next? What can we each do to help answer that question? What can we do together?

There in the middle of the parking lot, in the light of a streetlamp, I pray that God will bless the Drive-By Homeless Helper who speeds off to find the homeless and feed them hot turkey sandwiches. And I pray for myself, that God will increase my own knowledge about how to best help others, even if it is one hot turkey sandwich at a time.

 

—Carla Park, PhD, is assistant vice president for spiritual life and mission at Loma Linda University Health. 

]]>
Thu, 29 Nov 2018 08:24:54 -0800
4264:36248 <![CDATA[Adolescent e-cigarette use, new healthcare & nutrition laws for 2019, and more]]> News of the Week presents the November 2018 monthly roundup of resources from the Institute for Health Policy and Leadership at Loma Linda University Health. 

The Institute for Health Policy and Leadership is an active player in analyzing current issues, bills and laws dealing with health; curating coverage of key national news regarding healthcare, public health and science; and assessing implications for Seventh-day Adventist health systems.

November 2018 policy resources 

Healthcare News at a Glance weekly briefs

•  Nov. 7 issue
•  Nov. 14 issue
•  Nov. 28 issue

Issue at a Glance monthly brief       

•  “Oral Health for California Seniors”

Policy at a Glance monthly briefs

Health Policy Connection blog — November 2018

“Exploring the Use of E-Cigarettes Amongst the Adolescent Population”

]]>
Thu, 29 Nov 2018 08:25:01 -0800
4264:36249 <![CDATA[Meet four 'Ancient Faiths in a New Land' on Dec. 1]]> By Heather Reifsnyder The William Johnsson Center for Understanding World Religions presents “Ancient Faiths in a New Land” this Saturday afternoon, Dec. 1, in a program featuring the Jain, Sikh, Zoroastrian and Ashanti Adventist faiths.

The event is open to all and takes place from 3–5 p.m. at the Damazo Amphitheater in Centennial Complex, 24760 Stewart St., Loma Linda, CA 92350.

The program will feature perspectives shared by:

• Maneck Bhujwala, MA, a Zoroastrian priest and interfaith community leader.
•  Janice De-Whyte, PhD, assistant professor of religion at Loma Linda University and a scholar of Ashanti Adventism.
• Nitin Shah, MD, professor of anesthesiology and critical care at Loma Linda University Health and former president of the Jain Center of Southern California.
• Harpreet Singh, a Sikh community leader.

A panel discussion will follow, facilitated by Jon Paulien, PhD, dean of Loma Linda University School of Religion and director of the school’s Center for Understanding World Religions. Audience members will be able to ask questions of the panelists following the discussion.

According to Paulien, this program will be special in several ways. “The four faiths we are highlighting are virtually unknown to many people in the United States,” he said, “yet there are many more practitioners than people realize, including some who work, study or seek medical care at Loma Linda University Health.”

Additionally, it makes for a special occasion to simply bring together representatives of these faiths, Paulien noted.

The program will begin with an introduction from Paulien and then words and an interfaith prayer from the center’s namesake, William Johnsson, PhD, MA.

Call 909-558-7478 for more information.

About the William Johnsson Center for Understanding World Religions

The Board of Trustees at Loma Linda University Health approved the center in 2016, and its inaugural event took place in January 2017.

The center’s name recognizes William Johnsson and his contributions to promoting interreligious understanding in the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Johnsson served as assistant for interfaith relations for former General Conference President Jan Paulsen for a number of years following a prolific career in publishing and scholarship in the Adventist Church. Johnsson retired to Loma Linda in 2014, where he teaches courses for the School of Religion and still writes books.

]]>
Thu, 29 Nov 2018 08:25:07 -0800
4264:36251 <![CDATA[American Heart Association presents silver awards to Medical Center and Children's Hospital ]]> By Janelle Ringer Representatives from Loma Linda University Medical Center and Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital accepted the 2018 Get With The Guidelines® — Resuscitation Silver Awards from the American Heart Association on Nov. 15. The presentation was held at Children’s Hospital, where a representative from the American Heart Association presented the awards.

Both the Medical Center and Children’s Hospital received the silver awards in July for their high-quality treatment of patients who suffer cardiac arrests in the hospital. The American Heart Association recognizes hospitals based on their protocols for patient safety, medical emergency team response, effective and timely resuscitation (CPR) and post-resuscitation care.

Loma Linda University Medical Center received the award for meeting specific measures in treating adult patients who suffer in-hospital cardiac arrests in the hospital, and Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital received three awards for meeting specific measures in treating pediatric, neonate/infant and newly born patients.

Get With The Guidelines®— Resuscitation builds on the work of the American Heart Association’s National Registry of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, originally launched in 1999. The registry has collected in-hospital cardiac arrest data from more than 500 hospitals. Data from the registry and the quality program give participating hospitals feedback on their resuscitation practice and patient outcomes. The data also help improve research-based guidelines for in-hospital resuscitation.

Please watch the video below to see more about the event.

]]>
Thu, 29 Nov 2018 08:25:20 -0800
4264:36252 <![CDATA['Give to a Giver' this Christmas]]> By DonaJayne Potts The sixth annual “Give to a Giver” project is an opportunity for individuals, departments or groups to spread holiday cheer around the world by sending a little reminder of home to Loma Linda University Health overseas missionaries and their families.

These missionaries are Loma Linda University alumni, global service awardeesdeferred mission appointees, or Adventist Health International long-term volunteers. They serve at Loma Linda University Health strategic partner sites as physicians, dentists, hospital administrators, nurses and public health educators. 

Care packages are collected and shipped by Loma Linda University Health’s Global Health Institute in collaboration with Students for International Mission Service and the National Association of Seventh-day Adventist Dentists.

Want to sponsor a Christmas care package? Here’s how it works:

  1. Choose a missionary/missionary family and pick up a shipping box from the Global Health Institute, 24888 Prospect Ave.  
  2. Fill it — up to 20 pounds.
  3. Return it, unsealed, by Friday, Dec. 14.
  4. Feel warm fuzzies!

To learn more about this project and see a list of suggested gifts, please visit ghi.llu.edu/christmas or contact Angeli Yutuc, program manager of international service, at 909-558-4876 or ayutuc@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 29 Nov 2018 08:25:27 -0800
4264:36253 <![CDATA[Sign the final steel beam of new hospital]]> A milestone is in the making this December for the construction of Loma Linda University’s Health new hospital complex, and employees can be part of it. 

On Wednesday and Thursday, Dec. 5 and 6, you can sign what will be the ceremonial final beam of the 16-story steel frame of the future Medical Center. The beam will be placed outside the current Medical Center and Children’s Hospital main entrances, and volunteers will be on site from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. to facilitate individuals who’d like to add their signature. 

“I hope many of you will take the time to sign the beam and be a part of this important moment in our history,” said Kerry Heinrich, JD, CEO of Loma Linda University Medical Center.

The following week, on Tuesday, Dec. 11, this ceremonial final beam will be placed during a Topping Off ceremony, a traditional event during the construction of high-rise buildings. It marks the moment the building’s top structural height has been reached. 

The new building will also feature a nine-story tower to expand Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital. The steel frame for the children’s tower was completed in September.

]]>
Thu, 29 Nov 2018 08:25:35 -0800
4264:36254 <![CDATA[Notes from the President — Topping Off]]> By Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   December 2018
Topping Off

A major construction highpoint

Even the name has lofty overtones. Topping Off has come to mean the ceremony when the last steel beam is lifted into place in large building projects.

“Richard

The top has been reached, the height is confirmed, and it is a time to celebrate this first major phase of construction.

And we are there! Our Campus Transformation Project is ready for Topping Off. This means our new hospital structure, all 16 stories, has now reached the top floor — a milestone for us to celebrate. 

This has been a long journey, stimulated not by a desire to grow larger or have a fancy new building, but by a state mandate to prepare California hospitals for the expected major earthquakes of the future. We talked and planned, and planned again, before our current design and strategy emerged. Now we are on our way. The 1 million-square-foot facility is scheduled for completion in the fall of 2020, with occupancy coming in the spring of 2021.  

While there are always many people who make large projects like this possible, I want to acknowledge three individuals who have been absolutely critical to the Campus Transformation Project.  

Kerry Heinrich, our Executive Vice President for Hospital Affairs, has taken the clear leadership role in conceptualizing what the future of healthcare will look like and, therefore, what features and services should be in a building for the next 50 years or more. We needed to anticipate new inventions, changing patient care patterns and all the major forces impacting healthcare today and into the future. Thank you, Kerry, for an incredible job well done. 

The second person is Angela Lalas, who is a force to be reckoned with. As our Chief Financial Officer, she is a master at running formulas, preparing documents and conducting analyses from all angles. This has been absolutely essential as we have developed budgets for the bond market, state controllers, philanthropy and our own strategies.  

And finally, Eric Schilt, our Assistant Vice President of Construction. Eric has been the primary interface with our various contractors, government agencies, inspection teams, and our own campus family. His mastery of detail to identify what can and cannot be done and why, as well as its financial impact, is essential to keep us on target and within budget.

So what will this new facility mean to Loma Linda University Health? While we have recognized for some time that we had to build a new facility, the various planning stages have been invaluable in re-examining Loma Linda University Health’s purpose, its future and the changing face of academic medicine. We struggled not only with what clinical services will be needed, but how we will best educate students and residents to provide those services. We are, after all, first and foremost an academic institution committed to preparing generations of health professionals. We do this by embedding that education, for all healthcare disciplines, in the real world of patient and community care. So the building’s design needed to serve those goals. 

We also needed to encourage philanthropy by identifying various parts of the building that may be of interest to donors. Naming opportunities for rooms, floors, operating suites, lobbies, dining areas, halls, and towers are all being offered to prospective supporters of Loma Linda University Health who want to be part of this incredible step into the future. While much has been raised, there are still many opportunities to leave a lasting impact on this institution. To make a gift or to learn more, please visit lluhvision2020.org or call 909-651-2020.

We will celebrate the Topping Off ceremony on December 11 at 4 p.m., watching as the ceremonial final steel beam is lifted into place by the huge cranes and skillful handlers who have been assembling the building. We will watch from the top of P4 — our new parking structure by the Faculty Medical Offices, across Barton Road south from the hospital. The public is welcome to become part of Loma Linda University Health’s history at that event. The ceremony will be streamed live via Facebook on the Loma Linda University Health page and the Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital page, as well as available to employees through One Portal.

This is a transformative time for us. It will set the stage for the long-term future of our beloved institution. My hopes and prayers are that we have planned well. May our God continue to watch after this place for generations to come.

“Richard 

 

 

Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

 

Vision 2020 – The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow

]]>
Thu, 29 Nov 2018 08:25:41 -0800
4264:36158 <![CDATA[Exploring Wisdom: Gracious Speech]]> By Terry Swenson The biblical book of Proverbs is a collection of wisdom. It is filled with guidance, direction and sayings gathered and treasured by the people of God over centuries. It’s a good place to explore and learn how to inculcate values and morals into our daily lives.

Some are readily recognized. Some are challenging. And some, like our passage in Proverbs 22:11, cause us to sigh and shake our heads. If only it were possible to find “gracious speech” in our society as we know it today! Just perusing media — TV, social, movies, written — reveals that we live in a black hole of anger, strife and anything but gracious speech. 

It seems as if most of the conversations in our circles of life lack just that — conversation. Too often, it is opposing viewpoints speaking to the other to see if they agree. If they don’t, the other tries to convince them. If that fails, it becomes just one point of view shouting at the other point of view. Or, at worst, just erasing the other person from existence in their world. 

Whatever happened to discourse? Whatever happened to working together to find compromise? These words of Proverbs 22:11 sound so beautiful, but so farfetched. How could we make them come to reality in our workplace, our neighborhoods, our families and relationships? Well, Proverbs states that it’s a two-step process.

The first step is to love a pure heart. The apostle Paul speaks on this topic in 1 Timothy 1:5: “The purpose of my instruction is that all believers would be filled with love that comes from a pure heart, a clear conscience, and genuine faith.” 

We love a pure heart when our hearts are pure. What does that mean? Simply put, when we have a heart like Jesus. When we seek the best in others. When we empathize with others. When we see ourselves in others — that they are humans with the same dreams, feelings, traumas and joys just like us.

That empowers us to take the second step. When our hearts are “pure,” that is, when our hearts are filled with and focused on love, the words we speak will be “gracious.” Graciousness means that our words will be filled with grace. That will result in us looking at and listening to others from a grace-centered focus — just like Jesus does with us every minute of every day. 

Despite our divergent views, despite our brokenness, we can glue our hearts together through the medium of grace. And when we do that, Proverbs proclaims that we will have the King as our friend. And, when we do this, we can change our society and our world! 

Jesus promises, “I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one — as you are in me, Father, and I am in you. And may they be in us so that the world will believe you sent me.” –John 17:21.

—Terry Swenson, DMin, is director of University Spiritual Care.

 

]]>
Thu, 15 Nov 2018 09:52:18 -0800
4264:36159 <![CDATA[Survive the holidays healthfully]]> By Sheann Brandon Many people during the upcoming holiday season are likely to have stressors in their lives, which include keeping bank accounts steady, stress levels low and waistlines under control. 

Weight gain begins to rise in the United States throughout October and November, peaking approximately 10 days after Christmas, according to a study in the The New England Journal of Medicine. On average, a person’s weight increases nearly a pound and a half during the holiday season. 

While the average weight gain numbers aren’t large, Olivia Moses, DrPH, director of Corporate Health and Wellness at Loma Linda University Health, says the issue is gradual long-term weight gain from unhealthy holiday binging. 

“During the holidays, we’re in celebration mode, making it very easy to gain a few pounds,” Moses says. “The problem is we often never lose the excess weight, and year after year, we continue with the same routine.” 

The goal for the holidays is to celebrate AND keep your health in mind, Moses says. One of her tips: Only eat your favorite things. 

For Moses’ full list of holiday Do’s and Don’ts, read the complete story at news.llu.edu. 

]]>
Thu, 15 Nov 2018 09:52:24 -0800
4264:36160 <![CDATA[Plans in place for upgrading main electrical transformer ]]> The Department of Construction and Architectural Services has scheduled work to upgrade the main campus electrical transformer in preparation for increased power needs for the new hospital and our growing campus.

The work is scheduled for:

• A one-hour period on Friday, Nov. 16, from 10–11 p.m.

• The 5-day period of Wednesday, Nov. 21, at 10 p.m. through Monday, Nov. 26, at 5 p.m.

The work will require temporarily disconnecting from Southern California Edison and supplying full power from the co-generation turbine engines at Loma Linda University Health’s Central Utility Plant. 

No impact to normal power is expected, as the co-generators are fully able to sustain to the campus. However, due to shutting off the feed from Southern California Edison, there is an increased risk of unexpected loss of normal power.

The bulk of the work has thus been specifically scheduled for the Thanksgiving holiday weekend, when energy demand for the campus will be reduced. 

Proactively, the proton accelerator will be shut down to further reduce power demands. 

Further contingency planning lays out the following procedures in the event of co-generation failure:

• Four backup generators will be on site to provide power. Priority fuel delivery has been coordinated for these generators. 

• Power for the Medical Center and Children’s Hospital will take priority during this time. Should the backup generators fail, emergency power will take over. 

• Backup generators will also be in place for several of university buildings. 

The work has been coordinated in advance with the appropriate departments, including Medical Center Facilities Management, LLU Campus Engineering, Medical Center Construction, the Proton Treatment & Research Center, and administration.

Questions? Contact David Moore at damoore@llu.edu or ext. 43883.

]]>
Thu, 15 Nov 2018 09:52:31 -0800
4264:36161 <![CDATA[An act of kindness for Season of Gratitude, in about 60 seconds or less]]> By Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Health is embracing the Thanksgiving holiday with a Season of Gratitude and has created an easy way to express appreciation for your fellow employees, students and leaders — iAppU notes. 

Gratitude helps both giver and receiver, says our director of chaplain services for LLU Medical Center, Carl Ricketts Jr., MDiv, BCC. “Gratitude allows you to feel good, but it also enables you to do good,” he noted.

Instructions:

• Visit the iAppU page on One Portal and search for your recipient’s name.

• Share your thanks. Write a personal note, and/or check one of these choices:

• You helped me get through my day today.
• Your attitude and work ethic makes a big difference!
• It is fun to work with you.
• My day would not be complete without you here.

• Sign and send!

For inspiration about gratitude, catch the spirit of thanks with this message from Chaplain Ricketts:

 

]]>
Thu, 15 Nov 2018 09:52:37 -0800
4264:36162 <![CDATA[Make your mark — deadline extended for Community Public Art Project]]> By Heather Reifsnyder A grace period is being offered for submissions of original digital art or photography for the Loma Linda Community Public Art Project. The new deadline to submit entries is Thursday, Dec. 6.

Entries should evoke the theme of wellness. Chosen workswill be prominently displayed on Loma Linda University Health signage, to be installed in spring 2019. The signs will help alleviate congestion and promote public safety.

Entries are welcomed from individuals age 18 and above who live, work or go to school in the city of Loma Linda. The chosen artists/photographers will receive $500.

Along with directions for motorists, the signs will have large panels for displaying the selected images.

To submit your artwork, or to learn the full rules and requirements, visit www.lomalindaartsigns.com. The downloadable flyer below also contains more details.

]]>
Thu, 15 Nov 2018 09:52:42 -0800
4264:36163 <![CDATA[Schedule information to know for Thanksgiving week]]> During Thanksgiving week, most administrative and support departments at Loma Linda University Health will be closed Wednesday through Sunday, Nov. 21–25. 

This includes departments such as Human Resource Management, Payroll, Employee Health Services (main campus and Murrieta), Marketing & Communications, administrative offices, and more.

The closure of administrative and support departments on Wednesday of Thanksgiving week — in addition to the normally scheduled Thursday and Friday holiday — reflects the many vacation requests over the past few years from employees wishing to begin their festivities a day earlier. (All clinical departments will retain their normal holiday schedules and staffing.)

Paid leave policy for Wednesday, Nov. 21

For Wednesday the 21st, benefit-eligible hourly employees may either use paid leave or unpaid “budget hours” (benefits will still accrue for the day). Budget time does not apply to salaried employees. 

Salaried employees are expected to use paid leave to cover the Wednesday off. If a salaried employee does not have enough paid leave for the three-day period of Wednesday–Friday, the payroll system will automatically allow the paid leave balance to go in the negative. If a salaried employee is needed at work on these days, their time should be reported as a day of work.

If you have any questions about how this schedule change will impact you or your department, please contact your supervisor or call Human Resource Management at ext. 14001.

 

Additional changes during Thanksgiving week

The following services for employees will be impacted.

Payroll (off-cycle checks)

The Payroll department will be unable to process off-cycle checks (i.e. cash advances, terminations, and stop payments) on Tuesday, Nov. 20. 

The department will be closed Nov. 21 through 25.

Call ext. 14004 or email payroll@llu.edu for more information.

Employee Health Services (influenza vaccinations and TB tests)

Employee Health Services, at both the main campus and Murrieta locations, will be closed Nov. 21–25.

For main campus:

The last day to visit Employee Health Services to have a TB test placed prior to Thanksgiving is Friday, Nov. 16.

Influenza vaccinations for nights/weekends will be available by paging the House Supervisor at 2005. The supervisors are available Nov. 21–25 from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m., and 24 hours on Nov. 24 and 25.

For Murrieta campus:

Influenza vaccinations will be on hold starting Nov. 21 until the Employee Health Services office reopens Nov. 26. The last date to have a TB test placed before Thanksgiving has already passed for Murrieta employees. 

 

All normal business hours and services will resume campus-wide on Monday, Nov. 26.

]]>
Thu, 15 Nov 2018 09:52:53 -0800
4264:36164 <![CDATA['Living wage' pay increase deploying this month]]> Loma Linda University Health will increase its minimum living wage from $13.50 per hour to $14 per hour by the end of November.  

The organization committed to a living-wage initiative in November 2015, adopting a new minimum hourly pay rate of $13 per hour with plans to increase that to $15 per hour over time. 

The current increase to $14 hourly will appear in employee paychecks for the pay periods that begin:

• Nov. 18 for LLU Medical Center, Children’s Hospital, Behavioral Medicine Center, Medical Center – Murrieta, and Shared Services

• Nov. 25 for Loma Linda University and LLU Health Care 

Loma Linda University Health is committed to providing a living wage that is higher than the current federal and California minimum wage rates, according to Mark Hubbard, senior vice president for Risk Management and Human Resource Management.

“Our living wage recognizes the hard work done by all of our employees and affirms the fact that every job in our organization is important and contributes to our mission,” Hubbard said. “As one of the largest private employers in our region, we are proud of our workforce and we believe that paying a living wage is the right thing to do.”   

The living wage excludes a limited number of job roles, such as student and intern positions. 

California wage increase

Employees in the limited number of jobs at Loma Linda University Health that are not included in the living-wage policy will also soon see a pay raise, reflecting an increase in the California minimum wage. This will apply to hourly jobs as well as salaried/exempt jobs that have a pay rate based on minimum wage.

The state minimum wage will increase from $11 per hour to $12 per hour beginning in January 2019. 

This increasewill show up in employee paychecks for the pay periods that begin:

• Dec. 23 for Loma Linda University and LLU Health Care

• Dec. 30 for LLU Medical Center, Children’s Hospital, Behavioral Medicine Center, Medical Center – Murrieta, and Shared Services

For more information, email HumanResources@llu.edu or call ext. 14001.

]]>
Thu, 15 Nov 2018 09:52:59 -0800
4264:36165 <![CDATA[Special Edition: Notes from the President — Tragedies in California]]> By Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   Nov. 15, 2018
Special Edition
Tragedies in California

Prayer, support — and generosity 

Like many of you, I’ve been greatly concerned by the recent disasters that have dominated the news here in California. Last week we woke up to the shocking reports of a mass shooting in Thousand Oaks, a community that for years has defined what a safe, suburban community looks like. And as reports verified that 12 innocent people died that night, we were reminded once again of how fragile life is.

The next day, exploding seemingly within hours, two of the largest fires in California’s history were raging in the northern and southern parts of the state. I cringe any time I see images of smoke clouds accompanied by the unmistakable burnt-orange glow in the sky, whether those images are shown by the media or seen in the sky overhead. Unfortunately those images are happening with increasing frequency!

Northern California’s Camp Fire has already become the deadliest and most destructive fire in state history. At the time I write this, nearly 50 lives have been lost and several hundred residents are still missing. In the town of Paradise, most businesses and hundreds of homes have been destroyed. There are nearly 300 Loma Linda University Health alumni with their family members living in the area. Many of them work for Adventist Health Feather River hospital, operated by our sister organization Adventist Health. 

Stories continue to emerge about heroic actions taken by Feather River employees to save their patients. I am simply in awe as I hear these accounts. These brave men and women personally evacuated 67 patients when seconds were critical. These resourceful employees used any means at their disposal to move their patients to safety, including their own personal vehicles. Their efforts not only saved lives, they personified compassion and bravery at a time when it would have been safer and easier to evacuate themselves. They cared for their patients at their own personal risk, and that type of bravery and faith is moving.

Several of the hospital’s outer buildings were lost, but the main hospital building still stands. The Adventist school in Paradise lost its K-4 classroom building, and the Paradise Seventh-day Adventist Church was completely destroyed. At this time, many of our alumni are still trying to determine the status of their homes, though it’s certain many have lost virtually everything.

Imagine a day where you lose your home, your child’s school, your place of employment and your house of worship in just hours. The residents of Paradise will be dealing with that reality for weeks and months to come. 

Additionally, extreme Santa Ana winds have pushed the Woolsey Fire from southern Simi Valley through the rugged canyons of the Santa Monica mountains down to the beaches of Malibu. We have about 340 alumni and their families living in this region. Undoubtedly many were faced with evacuating their homes for several days while the fire jumped freeways and mountain ridges. While the Seventh-day Adventist regional headquarters building in Westlake Village was not directly threatened, a number of meetings scheduled to be held there were relocated to other places in Southern California.

The spirit of prayer, support and generosity is an integral part of the Loma Linda University Health community. I urge each of you to join me in prayer for the Thousand Oaks shooting victims and their families, and for those whose lives and futures have been shaken by the two massive wildfires. 

Here are some ways you can give direct financial help for fire relief:

• Adventist Health has established a Fire Assistance Fund at adventisthealth.org/giving.

• The American Red Cross is collecting funds to aid California wildfire victims at its website.

• The Seventh-day Adventist Church’s Northern California Conference has a disaster response fund at nccsda.com

 

“Richard 

 

 

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

 

“Richard

Office of the President, Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda, CA 92354

Copyright © 2018 by Loma Linda University Health

lluh.org

]]>
Thu, 15 Nov 2018 09:53:05 -0800
4264:36088 <![CDATA[Open enrollment for 2019 employee benefits — through Nov. 15]]> Loma Linda University Health’s annual open enrollment period began Nov. 1 and closes Nov. 15. This is the time of year for employees to make choices and enroll/reenroll for health plan coverage, life insurance and Flexible Spending Accounts.

Employees should visit PeoplePortal to review their past selections and make any desired changes for calendar year 2019.

Health plans

Reenrollment is not required* unless you want to add or delete a family member or change plans. The plan choices are the Wholeness Health Plan (requirements apply) or the Base Plan.

*Exception: LLU Medical Center – Murrieta employees must re-enroll if they wish to maintain coverage beyond Dec. 31, 2018.

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)

Employees who desire a Flexible Spending Account must enroll each yearduring open enrollment, or within 30 days of a qualifying life event.           

Life insurance

All employees with an active life insurance plan should ensure their beneficiary information is updated at this time and review options for coverage changes.

Demographic data

When you enroll in medical and dental benefits, your demographic data from PeoplePortal is transferred into LLEAP, the electronic medical record system.  

It is critical this data is correct and current, because it not only affects your Human Resource Management records, but also affects information for your health providers, medical record, health plan claims, etc.  

Learn more

For more information, employees may refer to the letter they received in the mail (dated Oct. 30) or an email from Benefits@llu.edu dated Nov. 1.

Additional questions about benefits enrollment can be directed to HumanResources@llu.edu.

Questions specifically regarding medical/dental coverage or Flexible Spending Accounts can be directed to Risk Management at 909-651-4010.

]]>
Thu, 08 Nov 2018 09:15:50 -0800
4264:36085 <![CDATA[Building Bridges — a devotional]]> By Kathy McMillan Drive out a scoffer, and strife goes out; quarreling and abuse will cease.
–Proverbs 22:10

Some relationships seem to feed on conflict. It’s exhausting to be around. Early in life, we figure out who will encourage us and who will tear us down. We all know people whose primary goal seems to be pointing out others’ faults. 

In his famous study on marriage, John Gottman found four predictors of divorce. These traits are applicable to other relationships as well. The first is criticism or finding fault with your partner. The second is defensiveness, which means defending oneself or whining rather than taking some responsibility. Next is contempt: putting oneself on higher ground than the other person; this can happen verbally or nonverbally. Last, stonewalling is withdrawing from the conversation, either physically or emotionally. Gottman found that couples who engaged in these behaviors had a much higher chance of divorce.

The writer of Proverbs seems to have understood these principles. “Drive out a scoffer and strife goes out; quarreling and abuse will cease” (22:10). Somehow, scoffing seems to be one of the most insidious of all the negative relational habits. Most of us wither when we are the focus of a scoffer. 

Many of us have suffered from the pain caused by hurtful words. Often, we don’t know how to respond. In the broad scheme of life, realizing that we are God’s beloved son or daughter is helpful. We are not defined by someone else’s opinion of us, but our value comes from being loved by our Creator.  

In the immediate moment of receiving harsh words, there is a suggestion offered in Proverbs 15:1, “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” 

Maybe the key is not developing skills to survive the attacks of others*. Perhaps our goal is to “counterattack” or “preemptively strike” with kindness. As we look at the life of Jesus, He consistently displayed compassion, grace, kindness and respect. He is the example that we follow.  

With a harsh election fresh in our memories, let us resolve to sow peace. Let us be healers and seek to understand others. Let’s reach across the divide and build bridges. 

—Kathy McMillan is director of Employee Spiritual Care at Loma Linda University Medical Center. 

*The exception to this is an abusive relationship, where it is more important to be safe and remove yourself from the relationship rather than try to keep peace. If you are in an abusive relationship and need help considering your options, please call the Employee & Student Assistance Program at ext. 66050.

]]>
Thu, 08 Nov 2018 09:15:36 -0800
4264:36086 <![CDATA[Wellness Live: 'Men's Health']]> The Living Whole Wellness Program will host a free live-streamed presentation on Wednesday, Nov. 14, from 5:30–6 p.m. about prostate, bladder, and testosterone concerns.

Viewers will be able to ask questions and interact live with featured speaker Roger Hadley, MD, dean of the School of Medicine, about men’s health.  

View the livestream at the Wellness Live webpage. It will be hosted by Olivia Moses, DrPH, CWHC, director of corporate health and wellness at Loma Linda University Health.   

For more information, call 909-651-4007.

Viewers who missed last month’s live broadcast on “Molecules Behind a Healthy Longevity” with Penelope Duerksen-Hughes, PhD, can view it on demand, along with numerous past presentations, in the Wellness Live on-demand archive.  

Livestream:

myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole/wellnesslive

]]>
Thu, 08 Nov 2018 09:15:40 -0800
4264:36087 <![CDATA[Murrieta campus joins LLEAP and shared EMR platform]]> Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta is now live on the shared electronic medical record system used across the rest of Loma Linda University Health, as well as the Connect organizations of Riverside University Health System and SAC Health System.

The changeover on Sunday, Nov. 4, closed the loop to create a fully integrated system-wide electronic medical record utilizing Epic, which is known here as Loma Linda Electronic Access Portal (LLEAP).

“Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta is committed to providing high-quality care and improving the health of the community it serves,” said Peter Baker, JD, MBA, senior vice president and administrator of Murrieta campus. Baker also commented that it is very rewarding to see the physicians, nursing staff and all the supporting areas work so hard to make this integration happen. 

With more than 3.7 million unique patient records in LLEAP, the result is seamless patient care no matter which organization — Loma Linda University Health, Riverside University Health System, or SAC Health System — is visited. 

This supports coordination of regional patient care.

All physicians and clinicians have access to the same health data. Murrieta patients, too, have better access to their health information through MyChart.

]]>
Thu, 08 Nov 2018 09:15:45 -0800
4264:36089 <![CDATA[Are you signed up for LLUH Alerts?]]> Employees and students, please ensure you are signed up to receive LLUH Alerts, which allow Loma Linda University Health to notify you during critical events such as active threats, chemical plumes, or other large-scale threats impacting your safety. 

LLUH Alerts allows you to choose if you would like to be communicated to by text or voice message.

To sign up or update your preferred method of contact, please visit the LLUH Alerts website and select the appropriate box — either Employee or Student — and provide your cell phone number to receive notifications by text or voice message.

All Loma Linda University Health employees and students will also receive an email later today (Nov. 8) from “LLUH Alerts” via <noreply@everbridge.net>, which will provide links to download and activate the Everbridge emergency notification app. (Note: Individuals who have already activated the app will not receive this email.) 

While this is optional, the app provides an enhanced user interface and greater reliability.

Stay informed! Get started now at https://home.llu.edu/lluhalerts.

]]>
Thu, 08 Nov 2018 09:15:54 -0800
4264:36090 <![CDATA[A congratulations from Kerry Heinrich]]> Loma Linda University Health has been on a multiyear journey of improving our patient satisfaction and quality of care. I appreciate the contributions that you and every member of this team have made to our progress. We recently received some nationally significant news regarding the patient safety scores for our Adult Hospital and East Campus. I know you will be as excited to hear this update as I am to share it with you. Please click the image or link below to hear this exciting news from the Leapfrog Group, which reaffirms the commitment you have all made to safety.

Video from Kerry Heinrich play button

https://vimeo.com/299332454/75160fce02

]]>
Thu, 08 Nov 2018 09:16:02 -0800
4264:36031 <![CDATA[No Shave November starts today]]> Put away your razors, No Shave November kicks off today, Thursday, Nov. 1.

Loma Linda University Health is proud to partner with San Bernardino Police Department for the fourth year in a row for No Shave November — a month-long initiative where participants forgo shaving in order to raise awareness about cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

Loma Linda University Health employees and students are encouraged to participate in a variety of ways:

  • Donate $60 to enter No Shave November and allow your hair to grow wild and free. With this donation, you will also receive a commemorative coin and a No-Shave November 2018 t-shirt.
  • Purchase a No-Shave November 2018 T-shirt for $15 or a commemorative coin for $10. Both men’s and women’s size T-shirts are available.
  • Make a donation to Loma Linda University Health and help fight cancer in the community.

Sign up on the event website.

All proceeds benefit cancer care at Loma Linda University Health. All gifts are tax-deductible. 

A celebratory event at the conclusion of No Shave November will be held Friday, Nov. 30, at 10 a.m. at Loma Linda University Health – San Bernardino campus, 250 S. G. St., San Bernardino, CA 92410.

Prizes will be given in a variety of categories. For more information, please call 1-877-LLUMC-4U or visit the event website.

]]>
Thu, 01 Nov 2018 09:30:31 -0700
4264:36029 <![CDATA[Time change this weekend — be ready ]]> Daylight saving time will roll back this weekend at 2 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 4. Reset your clocks Saturday night and enjoy an extra hour of sleep the next morning.

Due to the time change, users will not have access to LLEAP on Sunday morning from 12:50 a.m. (daylight saving time) to 1:10 a.m. (new time). Users are asked to use downtime procedures and the “Supports Read Only (SRO)” screen to view patient data during that 80-minute period.

If you have any questions, please contact the Service Desk at ext. 48889.

]]>
Thu, 01 Nov 2018 09:30:21 -0700
4264:36032 <![CDATA[MyLeave goes mobile]]> MyLeave, the system Loma Linda University Health uses to manage employee leaves of absence, is now available as a mobile app for both Android and Apple devices. 

The mobile version allows employees to access and view leave status and history; request a new leave; report approved intermittent leave time; and upload leave documents. The MyLeave app is available for download from Google Play or the Apple App Store.

Please remember that Loma Linda University Health policy requires leave time to be reported within two business days of returning to work. If not, the time will be denied for late reporting.

When registering on the app:

• Include all zeros at the beginning of your employee ID number (do not enter your EID number).

• Use your @llu.edu email address. 

•When asked for the last four digits of your Social Security Number (SSN) you can enter any four digits of your choosing; Loma Linda University Health does not provide MyLeave that information.

• You are also able to enter a personal email address, if desired, and choose security questions for use in password recovery.

Employee leaves from work are arranged through Employee Relations and Leave Administration in Human Resource Managementat Loma Linda University Health. 

If you need to miss time from work due to your own serious health condition or the serious health condition of a parent, child or spouse; for a pregnancy related-condition; to bond with a newborn or newly placed foster or adoptive child; or for any other legislatively protected reason, please contact Employee Relations and Leave Administration at ext. 14001.

]]>
Thu, 01 Nov 2018 09:30:37 -0700
4264:36030 <![CDATA[Hit the streets with the Lopers Club Holiday Classic, Dec. 2]]> The Living Whole Wellness Program wants employees and students to have fun and increase their physical activity. Signing up for the Loma Linda Lopers Holiday Classic could be just the thing to get you started.

The city of Loma Linda and the Lopers Club — whose members are known locally for Sunday morning walks/jogs in bright pink attire — will host the 29thannual Holiday Classic run/walk 5K, half marathon and Elves Trot on Sunday, Dec. 2. 

Registering early has its rewards. Register by Nov. 7 for your guaranteed event long-sleeved tech shirt and to avoid a $5 price increase beginning on Nov. 8. 

Additional savings for signing up early are available to students and employees of Loma Linda University Health, which helps sponsor the club through the Living Whole Wellness Program. Many Lopers members work and study at Loma Linda University Health.

Be among the first 250 employees and students of Loma Linda University Health to sign up for the Holiday Classic to receive a $20 discount on fees.

Act fast to secure your discount. Visit the Holiday Classic Race Information webpage and click LLUH: Save $20*. Enter your EID code to receive a coupon code. Apply the coupon code upon check-out when you register online.

]]>
Thu, 01 Nov 2018 09:30:26 -0700
4264:36028 <![CDATA[Living generously — a devotional]]> By Carl A. Ricketts Jr. He who is generous will be blessed …

–Proverbs 22:9 (New American Standard) 

Melvin Wax, 88, a retired accountant, was fatally shot while worshipping at Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on Oct. 27, 2018. According to The Associated Press, when asked to describe the life of his friend, Myron Snider briefed the world on Melvin’s significance by stating that Mel was unfailingly generous.

As Mr. Snider continued to elaborate on the wholesome life of his deceased friend Melvin, he recounted that while he himself was hospitalized, Melvin tracked down Snider’s hospital phone number so they could talk. 

What causes someone to demonstrate kindness to others, living generously as opposed to living miserly?

Proverbs 22:9 seems to hint at the secret to how some live generously and how some do not. 

The word generous in this text is derived from the Hebrew word ayin, a word meaning eye.

When we think of generosity we don’t generally think of sight. We are often prone to think of those who have abundance, from whom philanthropy can emanate.

Yet if we slow down for a moment, we may recall some people in our lives who have abundant resources and yet have not been generous.

Could it be that some do not see the needs of others? 

Could it be that some do not see their abundance to be relevant to addressing the needs of others? 

Could it be that some see reasons to justify forsaking the needs of others?

Sight plays an important part in being generous. In fact we can say that a generous person has a “generous eye.”

The generous person can sense — or see — the needs of others. They can see how their resources may give relief to present needs, and they can quite possibly see the complex reasons why others are in need. 

This generous individual does not let culture, peer pressure, or selfish ambition blind their eye to the challenge that is at hand and to the real solutions that can make significant impact.

The quantity of your generosity does not generally tell the bigger story. Jesus was once so moved that he called His disciples to observe the generosity of a woman who lost her husband — lost her standing in society — but still gave from her poverty. (Mark 12:44)

Life was in the widow’s giving because giving was her life. 

It’s not every day that we talk about generosity, but this week, even in the midst of tragedy, let us take notice. May we teach our children that a life that sees kindness and a life that gives kindness is a life that God will bless.

And no weapon formed against that life will prosper. 

Our hearts and prayers are toward the Tree of Life Synagogue victims.

 

—Carl Ricketts Jr., MDiv, BCC, is director of Chaplain Services for Loma Linda University Medical Center.

 

]]>
Thu, 01 Nov 2018 09:30:17 -0700
4264:36026 <![CDATA[Notes from the President: Creating a pathway toward understanding and inclusion]]> By Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   November 2018
Creating a pathway toward understanding and inclusion

Celebrating togetherness in faith 

“Richard

We have a group of generous supporters of Loma Linda University Health we call the University Councilors. Numbering over 160 all together, they have been significant contributors to various projects on campus, including our Councilors Student Pavilion, and are currently committed to raising $10 million for the chapel in our new hospital. 

But even more significant than their financial contributions has been their support and advocacy for our organization in other ways. Each year they visit several places in the country for fellowship and camaraderie, holding get-acquainted events for alumni, patients, and friends of Loma Linda University Health. Judy and I try to join them for at least part of each trip and always enjoy these times together.

Several weeks ago we found ourselves in New York City for a weekend with the Councilors. As is our usual practice, Janya Mekelburg, our director of alumni and donor relations, looked for a local church in which to fellowship Saturday morning. She found one fairly close to our hotel in Manhattan and let them know we would be coming and would look forward to worshipping and sharing lunch together, followed by our usual presentation that we call “Loma Linda Comes to You.”  

When we arrived we found a fairly small church with an unusual name “Church of the Advent Hope.” We knew because the name was still engraved in German on the mantle above the entrance, reminding all of the initial development by the local German community, now largely gone. Located on a crowded side street with little parking, as much of New York seems to be, the church is now surrounded by much taller buildings. 

Church sign on building wall

But the real treat began when we stepped inside. The friendly and open greeting by young people was followed by vibrant discussions in small groups, and then the church service itself. It was completely integrated — not just racially, but across ages, economics, lifestyles, cultures and backgrounds. There was bountiful and easy fellowship among the members and with us. One could not help but be drawn into a special relationship with each other and with God. While we met a few old friends from Loma Linda, we made new friends and marveled at the spirit of the place and the feeling of comfort with complete strangers. This acceptance and trust seem to be lost in the larger world of today.

After a delightful lunch and fellowship, we boarded our busses to return to our hotel. But the feeling from that time together lingered with the Councilors. What would it take for all places of worship to be like that? What about our larger communities, or our country itself? We have gone from considering this country to be a “melting pot” to being a “tossed salad,” celebrating our togetherness while still recognizing our differences. But lately we seem to be pulling back into our own “tribes” — the “us vs. them” mentality that stifles communication and fellowship. Information and news are spun to polarize feelings rather than understand and accept.

I am left wondering what it would take to recapture this sense of acceptance and trust. Can it only come from a shared worship experience, or could we find common ground around other themes or goals or beliefs? I know election years accentuate these differences, but the arguments on either side for various candidates, or ballot measures, at least here in California, leave one wondering if they are even talking about the same person or proposition. Somehow the group in New York found a common denominator in the human experience that became a foundation for their acceptance of each other and their fellowship together.  

This desire for understanding each other is a major goal on our campus. While acceptance of our diversity seems to come much more naturally to the younger generation, we actively create settings that give opportunity for sharing and understanding. Various events on campus have this as a stated goal. Mission trips together provide many teachable moments.

With exposure and interaction come understanding and acceptance. My hope is that all of us can push toward this common pathway of understanding and inclusion of others.

“Richard 

 

 

Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

 

Vision 2020 – The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow

Office of the President, Loma Linda University Health

Copyright © 2018 by Loma Linda University Health

]]>
Thu, 01 Nov 2018 09:18:44 -0700
4264:35927 <![CDATA['Molecules Behind a Healthy Longevity' — Wellness Live]]> The Living Whole Wellness Program will host a free live-streamed presentation on Wednesday, Oct. 31, from 5:30-6 p.m. in which viewers will be able to ask questions and interact live with featured speaker Penelope Duerksen-Hughes, PhD, about a healthy longevity.  

The live presentation will be hosted by Olivia Moses, DrPH, CWHC, director of corporate health and wellness at Loma Linda University Health.  

The livestream will be available at Loma Linda University Health’s Facebook page or at myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole/wellnesslive.  

For more information, call 909-651-4007.

Viewers who missed last month’s live broadcast on the “ABCs of Vaccines” by Noreen Chan Tompkins, PharmD, can view it on demand, along with numerous past presentations, in the Wellness Live On Demand archive.

]]>
Thu, 25 Oct 2018 10:00:14 -0700
4264:35928 <![CDATA[Calling all healthy heroes to Family Health Fair and 5k]]> Loma Linda University Health’s Family Health Fair and 5K Walk/Run will be held Sunday, Oct. 28, at the Loma Linda University Drayson Center.

This event, “Calling All Healthy Heroes,” will offer free flu shots for all family members ages 3 and up, a variety of health screenings, a kid’s fun zone, food and even the chance to win a Disneyland family package.

Get the full details about attending or volunteering at news.llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 25 Oct 2018 10:00:20 -0700
4264:35926 <![CDATA[It's time 'To Make Man Glow']]> The third-annual “To Make Man Glow” run — a play on words of the organizational motto “To Make Man Whole" — will light up the P2 parking garage at 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 11. Registration and pre-race activities will begin at 5 p.m.

This 3.1-mile run/walk is filled with glow sticks, black lights, music, a photo booth, giveaways and more. It is not timed and is suitable for wheelchairs, strollers, families and people of all ages and athletic abilities. The start/finish line will be on the seventh floor of the P2 garage on Campus Street.

Help make the campus glow with your finest light-up gear. Prizes will be awarded to the “best dressed” participants at race end. 

Proceeds go to benefit the American Heart Association and Loma Linda University’s Student Activities department.

For pricing and to sign up, visit llu.link/LLUglow.

 

]]>
Thu, 25 Oct 2018 10:00:09 -0700
4264:35924 <![CDATA[Humility's Spiritual Dimension]]> By Carla Gober-Park “The reward for humility and fear of the Lord is riches and honor and life.” –Proverbs 22: 4, RSV

Humility — who wants it?

Exploring this proverb is difficult. Humility is often interpreted to mean weakness, lack of strength, inability or failure. From the literal and more physical sense, humility does not bring earthly riches, nor does it always bring honor or life. To the contrary, humility (especially the kind that results from understanding and obeying God) can result in poverty, misunderstanding and “non-life” from an earthly perspective.

From an emotional perspective, there can be a gross misunderstanding of “humility,” where kindness or respect is misinterpreted and/or blatantly abused or trampled. Socially, an attitude of humility goes a long way in making friends, being collaborative, and working together as friends, families or communities. But what kind of humility brings riches and honor and life

What makes this proverb true? 

This is where the spiritual dimension comes into focus. This proverb is talking about a certain kind of humility — the kind of humility that comes from, and is associated with, a different kingdom. 

From God’s perspective, everything gets turned upside down.

The rich are poor and the poor are rich; those who serve are greatest and those who are first go to the back of the line. The “reward” for this kind of humility only makes sense from a spiritual perspective. These people win a different kind of jackpot. They develop inner strength, a richness of being and see the sacredness of ordinary moments. They enter a different way of seeing God, others and the world — one that rightly estimates and values.

They have riches — the kind that matter. They have honor — the kind that endures. They have life — period. 

Folks, this is a different kind of humility, originating from a different kind of kingdom. It results in riches, honor and life that is misunderstood and often undervalued on the roads where our feet get dirty.

Who wants this kind of humility? These riches? This honor? This life?

Do you?

—Carla Gober-Park, PhD, is assistant vice president of Spiritual Life and Mission at Loma Linda University Health.

 

]]>
Thu, 25 Oct 2018 10:00:00 -0700
4264:35925 <![CDATA[Discovering health policy: issues about food, and more]]> News of the Week presents the October 2018 monthly roundup of resources from the Institute for Health Policy and Leadership at Loma Linda University Health. 

The Institute for Health Policy and Leadership is an active player in analyzing current issues, bills and laws dealing with health; curating coverage of key national news regarding healthcare, public health and science; and assessing implications for Seventh-day Adventist health systems.

October 2018 policy resources 

Healthcare News at a Glance weekly briefs

Oct. 24 issue
Oct. 17 issue
Oct. 10 issue

Issue at a Glance monthly brief

            October 2018 – “Why Food Insecurity Occurs and How It Affects Children’s Mental Health

Policy at a Glance monthly brief

October 2018 – “Food Options: Plant-Based Meals (SB 1138)

Health Policy Connection blog postsOctober 2018

Oct 17Making Hospital Food Healthier

        Oct. 5: What To Do About the High Cost of Pharmaceuticals? Part 3

]]>
Thu, 25 Oct 2018 10:00:05 -0700
4264:35929 <![CDATA[TB test clinic dates — November and December]]> Employee Health Services is offering a TB test clinic once monthly in November and December for staff who require an annual tuberculosis clearance. For employee convenience, the clinics will take place in Children’s Hospital rooms 1830 and 1832.

November

Test placement: Tuesday, Nov. 6, from 7:30–10:30 a.m. in CH 1832

Test reading: Thursday, Nov. 8, from 9:30–11:30 a.m. in CH 1832

December

Test placement: Monday, Dec. 3, from 1:30–4:30 p.m. in CH 1830

Test reading: Wednesday, Dec. 5, from 1:30–3:30 p.m. in CH 1830

These dates are available for employees who are within 30 days of their test due date.  

All TB tests that are placed must be read within 48-72 hours, either at the return clinic date or in Employee Health Services (Faculty Medical Offices suite 1250). Failure to have the TB test read will necessitate another TB test at the employee’s own expense. 

These clinics are offered in addition to the regular office hours of Employee Health Services. For more information, call Employee Health Services at ext. 88797, option 3.

]]>
Thu, 25 Oct 2018 10:00:26 -0700
4264:35930 <![CDATA[Influenza vaccination clinics offered for employees ]]> All employees who enter clinical areas must be vaccinated or wear a mask beginning Nov. 1.)]]> Employee Health Services is still offering influenza immunizations for employees of Loma Linda University Health in preparation for the 2018-2019 flu season.

The schedule is attached for download below the story. Available dates are Oct. 26 & 29-31, and Nov. 1, 5, 8 & 20.Employee ID badge is required.

Requirements

Employees must participate in the annual influenza vaccination campaign.

All employees who enter clinical areas must either receive the influenza immunization or provide a written declination, as required by California Senate Bill 739, if they work a single day from Oct. 1, 2018, through March 31, 2019. Employees who do not receive the immunization must wear a mask beginning Nov. 1 and continuing at least through March 2019, by order of the San Bernardino County Health Department. They must also complete their declination form by Dec. 31.

Staff members who receive the flu vaccine through Employee Health Services will be given an orange-and-white sticker for their badges. Employees may also receive their vaccination at another location and obtain the orange-and-white badge sticker by completing a “received elsewhere” form.

Forms

Find the “received elsewhere” and “declination” forms on One Portal.

Learn more

To learn more, visit the Employee Health Services page on One Portal, or call ext. 88797, or email employeehealthservices@llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 25 Oct 2018 10:00:31 -0700
4264:35875 <![CDATA[Employee benefits fairs set for Oct. 24 – Nov. 1]]> Employees of several Linda University Health entities are invited to go "above and beyond" with their benefits during the 2018 benefits fairs for staff of Loma Linda University Medical Center, Shared Services, Health Care, Children’s Hospital, Medical Center – Murrieta and Behavioral Medicine Center (Loma Linda University will have its fair at a future date).

The fairs will take place Oct. 24–Nov. 1 according to the schedule below; employees will learn about the benefits they receive through their jobs. On each of these dates, there will also be an online virtual fair that employees of any scheduled entity can "attend."

The event also boasts a grand-prize package for one employee from each entity to win.

For more information, please contact Candace Ocampo at CAOcampo@llu.edu or ext. 33462.

This is also the time of year for employees of the above entities to review their health, FSA and life insurance benefits. Open enrollment runs Nov. 1–15.

 

]]>
Thu, 18 Oct 2018 11:06:15 -0700
4264:35860 <![CDATA[Wisdom Today Can Prevent Consequences Tomorrow]]> By Randy Roberts Proverbs 22:3 is simple. Here’s how the New International Version renders it:

The prudent see danger and take refuge

but the simple keep going and pay the penalty.

This is the kind of proverb your mother quoted to you. It’s one of those fundamental truths that I’m guessing most cultures around the world have immortalized in proverbial sayings appropriate to their cultural contexts.

It is easy to quickly think of situations where this proverb applies. I think, for example, of the times that my wife has said — as we are heading out on a trip across the desert — “Do we have plenty of extra drinking water? Because if we break down in the desert…”

In years past, the kids have usually rolled their eyes and said, “Mom, nothing is going to happen.” Then several years ago, traveling to a speaking engagement on a divided interstate through the Arizona desert, I passed a traffic accident on the oncoming side of the freeway. It blocked all traffic, and because it was in the middle of the desert, there were no off-ramps. There was no need for off-ramps! There was nowhere to go.

The cars were backed up at least ten miles. When we took our exit, we were coming to the end of the traffic jam just about 20 miles down the interstate from the accident. I was stunned. People just sitting in their cars, hour after hour, with nowhere to go. No escape, in the desert, in the daytime Arizona sun.

As I think about it now, I think of my wife’s advice to always have drinking water in the car. And I think of this proverb. The New Living Translation renders it:

A prudent person foresees danger and takes precautions

The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences.

I wonder how many prudent people waited hour after hour in their cars that day, and I wonder how many simpletons went to other cars, begging for a drink.

This proverb is true in many areas of life. So, some questions:

Do you have extra water and batteries and food for when “the big one” shakes us?

Do you have renter’s insurance for when the pipe breaks and spoils your furniture?

Did you fill up your gas tank for tomorrow’s early morning run to the airport?

Have you invested quality time in your relationships, so there’s goodwill in the emotional bank for when hard times come?

And maybe the most important question of all: Are you investing deeply in your relationship with God on a daily basis?

I ask because I can assure you that a time will come when you will need the strength that relationship can provide, and yet you’ll be in the midst of a situation that is not conducive to building it.

You see, when the storm breaks, it’s too late to fix the leaky roof. When the flood waters rise, it’s too late to reinforce the levee. When the fire burns, it’s too late to buy a fire alarm. And when the night grows dark, you’ll need the assurance of God’s presence to surround you. How much stronger you will be if that assurance is the familiar presence you’ve come to know every day of your life.

Thankfully, God answers our 911 calls. But God would rather you experience his friendship every day so that when the hard times come, you’re not calling a stranger.

Build your relationship with him now. Today. Every day. That’s what wise people do.

Randy Roberts, DMin, is vice president for spiritual life and mission at Loma Linda University Health. 

]]>
Thu, 18 Oct 2018 10:10:34 -0700
4264:35861 <![CDATA[Workshop — maximize your Social Security benefits]]> Employees can learn about Social Security benefits during “Social Security 101: everything you wanted to know,” a free workshop at Loma Linda University Health presented by the Social Security Administration.

Employees may choose from the following sessions:

• Tuesday, Oct. 23, from 8–10 a.m. at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital, room 1832

• Tuesday, Oct. 23, from 3:30–5 p.m. at Loma Linda University Medical Center, A-600 Medical Oncology Conference Room 

• Monday, Oct. 29, from 12–2 p.m. at LLUH 101 Building, lobby conference room

• Friday, Nov. 2, from 9–10:30 a.m. at LLU Medical Center East Campus, Meridian Conference Room

Learn about:

  • Age of eligibility for retirement benefits
  • The future of Social Security
  • How to maximize benefits
  • The impact of early retirement on benefits
  • Qualifications for disability, survivor, or spouse benefits
  • When to file for Medicare

Employees should create a My Social Security account and print out their Social Security Statement prior to attending.  

The workshops will be led by Teresa Campbell, California inland area public affairs specialist for the Social Security Administration. She has worked with the agency for more than 27 years in both technical and supervisory roles. Campbell has also published several articles.

Learn more about the workshops by emailing humanresources@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 18 Oct 2018 10:11:42 -0700
4264:35862 <![CDATA[Annual Wil Alexander Wholeness Series begins Oct. 24]]> By Janelle Ringer The Wil Alexander Wholeness Series will kick off its 2018-2019 season with an Oct. 24 presentation by pulmonologist and sleep medicine physician Roger Seheult on improving sleep for optimal learning and better health.

The series offers eight free presentations throughout the year on a variety of topics relating to wholeness, wellness and spiritual values.

The Wil Alexander Wholeness Series carries the name of the late wholeness and spirituality pioneer whose groundbreaking work on whole person care spanned more than five decades at Loma Linda University Health. Alexander served as a professor at the School of Medicine, professor at the School of Religion, and founded the Center for Spiritual Life and Wholeness. He died in 2016 at the age of 95.

Workshops in the series are held on specified Wednesday evenings from 5 p.m. to 5:50 p.m. in Damazo Amphitheater at Centennial Complex on the campus of Loma Linda University Health. All are welcome and reservations are not required.

Dates and presentations in the series include:

  • Oct. 24: In his lecture “Sleep on it,” Dr. Seheult will discuss tips for improving sleep for optimal learning and better health.
  • Nov. 14: Executive Director of Patient Experience at Loma Linda University Jennifer McDonald will present on her framework for excellence in patient-centered care in “Connection, Compassion and Communication.”
  • Nov. 28: Sigve K. Tonstad, MD, theologian and author, will lead a discussion on taking a day of rest in a hectic week in “The Sabbath as meaning-maker in busy lives.”
  • Jan. 9: A backpacker for 50 years, author and traveler Barney Scout Mann will share stories from the Pacific Crest, Appalachian, and the Continental Divide trails in “Exploring America’s Wilderness.”
  • Jan. 23: In “Food for Thought,” Olivia Moses, DrPH, director of Corporate Health and Wellness at LLU, will discuss how the audience can build brain power through nutrition.
  • Feb. 27: Attendees will help select the winners of The Wil Alexander Wholeness Series Student Film Festival, featuring videos created around the theme of “Depictions of Love.”
    March 6: Alan Fadling, MDiv., president and founder of Unhurried Living, Inc., will present “Unhurried Living,” a discussion on how one can maintain healthy rhythms of work and rest to improve health, well-being and balance in one’s life.
  • April 10: Hyatt Moore, MA, Christian artist and owner of the Hyatt Moore Art Gallery, will discuss his inclusive interpretation of the Beatitudes in “Blessed are We.” His art pieces will be on display and prints of his work will be available for sale.

Workshops are sponsored by the schools of Allied Health Professions, Behavioral Health, Dentistry, Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, Public Health, Religion and the Loma Linda University Office of Student Affairs.

Additional information about the Wil Alexander Wholeness Series is available online at its website

]]>
Thu, 18 Oct 2018 10:12:21 -0700
4264:35863 <![CDATA[Experience the world through new online cultural database]]> Loma Linda University Health employees and students now have access to CultureGrams™, a leading reference for concise and reliable cultural information on the countries of the world.

Through this online cultural database made possible by the Del E. Webb Memorial Library in partnership with the Global Health Institute, users can view and download country reports that go beyond mere facts and figures to deliver a one-of-a-kind perspective on daily life and culture, including the background, customs and lifestyles of the world's people.

For further information about cultural sensitivity, visit the Global Health Institute’s cultural education resource page, or log on to the CultureGrams™ online database via an on-campus computer or secure VPN.

]]>
Thu, 18 Oct 2018 10:12:47 -0700
4264:35864 <![CDATA[Get moving with "Walk with a Doc"]]> The Living Whole Wellness Program and Loma Linda University Preventive Medicine Program have partnered with a national walking program initiative called Walk with a Doc for anyone interested in taking steps for a healthier lifestyle through physical activity.

Participants will be able to ask questions and interact with featured Loma Linda University Health doctors. Various doctors will be hosting walks in different locations each month along with a brief presentation on different health topics.

No registration necessary.     

The upcoming walks for the remainder of the year are below:   

When

Time

Who

Where

October 18th

3:30 p.m.

Karen Studer

8599 Haven Ave., Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730

(Meet outside of building lobby)

October 21st

8:00 a.m.

Mike Orlich

San Timoteo Nature Sanctuary, Carriage Trail

(Meet in the parking lot off of Allesandro Road in Redlands)

November 6th

5:00 p.m.

Brenda Rea and Gina Henry

24785 Stewart St., Loma Linda, CA 92350

(meet at Mission Globe fountain on campus)

November 15th

3:30 p.m.

Karen Studer

8599 Haven Ave., Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730

(Meet outside of building lobby)

December 12th

5:15 p.m.

Ricardo Peverini

24760 Stewart St., Loma Linda, CA 92354

(Meet at north entrance to Centennial Complex)

December 20th

3:30 p.m.

Karen Studer

8599 Haven Ave., Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730

(Meet outside of building lobby)

 For more information visit: walkwithadoc.org/our-locations/llu

]]>
Thu, 18 Oct 2018 10:14:54 -0700
4264:35865 <![CDATA[Food for our community]]> Janelle Ringer Food drive bins will be set in 15 locations Oct. 30 through Nov. 15 for employees, faculty and staff to donate. All are encouraged to drop off items at the various locations on campus listed below.

Please consider donating non-perishable food and toiletry items to be distributed to those in the local community in need.

Items gathered at Loma Linda University Health will be given to the nonprofit SAC Health System for distribution to patient families in need. The food drive is also taking place at the Murrieta location of Loma Linda University Medical Center; these items will be distributed in the Murrieta area.

]]>
Thu, 18 Oct 2018 10:15:29 -0700
4264:35866 <![CDATA[Seeking the eye-catching and thought-provoking — Community Public Art Project]]> The Loma Linda Community Public Art Project is seeking entries of digital art or photography that promote wellness themes. Submissions have the possibility to be prominently displayed on Loma Linda University Health signage to be installed in spring 2019.

Entries are welcomed through Nov. 15 from individuals age 18 and above who live, work or go to school in the city of Loma Linda.

The signs will aim to help alleviate congestion and promote public safety. In addition to helping motorists find major destinations, the signs will have large panels to feature the selected digital art, imagery and photography.

The chosen artists/photographers will receive $500 and have their artwork displayed as part of the Community Public Art Project.

To submit your artwork, or to learn the full rules and requirements, visit www.lomalindaartsigns.com. The downloadable flyer below also contains more details. 

]]>
Thu, 18 Oct 2018 10:16:31 -0700
4264:35780 <![CDATA[The Only Upgrade You Need — A Devotional]]> By Carl Ricketts Jr. A good name is to be more desired than great wealth,
Favor is better than silver and gold.
The rich and the poor have a common bond,
The Lord is the maker of them all.
Proverbs 22:1-2

Success is often measured by the attainment of wealth, the accumulation of what is rare or the ability to afford the expensive and exclusive. It might be a relief to know that success comes not from what you have, but from who has you.

We live in a time where we feel we are often divided. It can be a breath of fresh air to intentionally celebrate our bonds of commonality.

Our world is constantly promoting what is to be “desired” and what is “better.” Cars are upgraded each year, while the size of the lowest model inches closer to that of the mid-size and the mid-size becomes the size of the top model over time.

Everything is constantly being upgraded. It’s all happening so fast that if we don’t slow down, we may not notice that our world often tries to drive us apart by selling us on the things we believe we need — the need for more distinction, separation or security.

Yes, even separation and security from those who don’t have what I have. We have upgraded so much we are at the point where we are fearful of those who have not upgraded with us, and some of us may feel insecure and left behind if we have not upgraded at all.

When we pause from the ceaseless bombardment of upgrades in our lives, we are able to see the vast division: “the haves and the have-nots.”

And while we waste precious time trying to protect what we have from those who don’t have or trying to get what we don’t have from those who have, God is whispering a little message in our ears, saying He has you, He made you, He will provide for you and He cares for you.

For He is our maker. This is the common thread in us all: God is our Maker.

We may often define the success of people from our narrow and biased perspective, forgetting whose hands made them and whose hands keep them. But the entirety of God speaks to His knowledge of us before the womb — His care for us the first day we took breath and His faithful love towards us now, unaltered by what we own or lack.

Oh how I love Jesus, Oh how I love Jesus.
Oh how I love Jesus, because He first loved me.

We can all sing the words of this song. And if we could gauge the flow of love from the heart of God to every “me” within this chorus, the magnitude would be immeasurably equal to all.

With our Maker’s matchless love in mind, let us become consistent and constant in our promotion of His way by following the words of Micah 6:8, "Do what is right, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God."

This is the measure of Godly success. This is the upgrade we need.

A wise saying from Proverbs 14 reminds us — “He who oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God.”

Take time to uplift the poor and to heal the brokenness that you witness. You will be honoring the Creator.

So, if you’re ever tempted to trade in God’s hands on you for your hands on the things of this world, remember, an upgrade with God is all the upgrade you’ll need.

 

—Carl Ricketts Jr., MDiv, is director of Chaplain Services for Loma Linda University Medical Center.

]]>
Thu, 11 Oct 2018 10:05:16 -0700
4264:35782 <![CDATA[Who are Seventh-day Adventists?]]> Loma Linda University Health is offering an informational session — titled “Who are Seventh-day Adventists?” — to give interested employees an overview of Adventist beliefs. 

Loma Linda University Health was founded by the Seventh-day Adventists and operates in connection with the Seventh-day Adventist Church’s headquarters, located in the Washington, D.C. metro area.

The session will be held Wednesday, Oct. 24, 2018 from noon–1:30 p.m. Lunch will be served at the free event, which will take place at Wong Kerlee International Conference Center’s Rock Room.

Questions will be welcomed and encouraged.  

To sign up or for more information, please call Employee Spiritual Care at ext. 87261.

]]>
Thu, 11 Oct 2018 10:06:10 -0700
4264:35783 <![CDATA[Epic upgrade begins today]]> The 2018 upgrade of the Epic electronic medical record system — known at Loma Linda University Health as LLEAP (Loma Linda Electronic Access Portal) — is almost here.

The key dates to know are as follows:

• Thursday, Oct. 11 – Saturday, Oct. 20 — workflow and tool limitations

·      Limitations will begin at 5 a.m. on Oct. 11 and will be lifted by 3 a.m. on Oct. 21 following the upgrade go-live. Tool limitations will include the ability to immediately correct duplicate encounters or admission errors and similar errors. Issues must be reported and will be corrected after the upgrade. While the system will remain available during the affected time, extra caution while executing certain activities is highly recommended. Please see the tip sheet for more information.

• Saturday, Oct. 20 — System downtime

·      LLEAP will be unavailable for four to six hours, beginning at 10 p.m.

• Sunday, Oct. 21 — Go-live  

·      Epic’s 2018 upgrade will go live across Loma Linda University Health.*

Education and support

Super Users will be the first line of troubleshooting support for staff. Super Users will work with the Service Desk on any issues they are unable to resolve. 

Employees can stay current on important updates in tools and workflows by reviewing documentation in their Learning Home Dashboard in LLEAP (see example) and in OWL Portal.

For further information, visit One Portal’s Epic 2018 upgrade page or email Epic2018Upgrade@llu.edu.

* With the exception of LLU Medical Center – Murrieta, which will adopt LLEAP as its electronic medical record system on Nov. 4.

]]>
Thu, 11 Oct 2018 10:06:43 -0700
4264:35785 <![CDATA[Community Conversations presents — Alzheimer's: A Community Approach to the Brain Health Crisis with Dean and Ayesha Sherzai]]> Loma Linda University Health will host a Community Conversation on the topic of Alzheimer’s on Tuesday, Oct. 16 at 5:30 p.m. in the Centennial Complex’s Damazo Amphitheater.

During the event, the co-directors of the Alzheimer’s Prevention Program at Loma Linda University Health and co-authors of The Alzheimer’s Solution will engage with leaders from a cross-section of public and non-profit organizations and will address the following questions:

  • How will society support the number of cases to arise in the coming months and years?
  • What do we need to know to reduce brain risk at an individual level?
  • How do we access resources that are not systematically connected?

Alzheimer’s is one of the most feared diseases among men and women over the age of 65 and is expected to double by the year 2050, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Though many doctors say the degenerative disease is incurable, neurologists Ayesha and Dean Sherzai believe 90 percent of Alzheimer’s cases can be prevented through lifestyle factors.

Team Sherzai has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, The Huffington Post, Dr. OZ, and USA Today, among others. 

Please register for this free event at lluh.org/talks.

]]>
Thu, 11 Oct 2018 10:07:40 -0700
4264:35787 <![CDATA[Loma Linda University Health achieves coveted Stage 7 status for electronic medical record adoption model]]> Loma Linda University Health recently achieved Stage 7 status for the electronic medical record adoption model of HIMSS Analytics for both inpatient and outpatient sites. The organization achieved inpatient status in November 2017, and outpatient status on Sept. 25 of this year.

Stage 7 status is considered a rare, elite achievement. Global healthcare advisor HIMSS Analytics says Loma Linda University Health is one of only 43 healthcare organizations in the nation that have achieved Stage 7 status on both the inpatient and outpatient electronic medical record adoption models. 

John H. Daniels, global vice president at HIMSS Analytics, said the Stage 7 status validations are good for three years.

“Loma Linda University Health continues to demonstrate its commitment to effectively using health information and technology to transform healthcare in their community,” Daniels said.

Francis Chan, MD, interim chief medical information officer for Loma Linda University Health, said the status is awarded to institutions that advance patient care and operational efficiencies through information technology. “At the end of the site visit, the reviewer summarized their overall impression by stating that it was very clear that we met the criteria for Stage 7,” Chan said.

Mark Zirkelbach, MPA, chief information officer for Loma Linda University Health, said the achievement is the result of a continuous-improvement team effort led by operations and quality.

“We’re delighted to learn of this awesome achievement,” Zirkelbach said. “It is great to see the recognition of the long-standing focus on improving quality supported by automation.”

More information is available on a One Portal page dedicated to Stage 7 status. 

]]>
Thu, 11 Oct 2018 10:25:49 -0700
4264:35788 <![CDATA[New Hall of Hope photos unveiled in NICU]]> The Hall of Hope, featuring 25 photos of previous neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) patients, was unveiled in an intimate ceremony Monday evening. Those who were featured in the photos, along with their families, were invited to a small celebration reception. Hugs, smiles and laughter were in abundance as each family walked the hall.

Kathy McMillan, MA, RN, director for Employee Spiritual Care and co-chair of the Aesthetics Committee, says the desire of NICU leadership to provide an avenue for hope was instrumental in prompting the Hall of Hope update.

“When a baby ends up in the NICU, no matter the seriousness of the diagnosis, it’s a crisis for the parents,” McMillan said. “It’s heartbreaking. It wasn’t the ideal scenario any parent had in mind for their child’s birth.” 

The Hall of Hope, first installed in the 1990s, is located on the third floor of Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital (LLUCH) NICU. It featured pictures of infants who had been treated in the NICU and were now grown and thriving.

The update of the photos began in May. McMillan and her team worked closely with NICU nurse managers to connect with previous patients. Children, teens and young adults of various ethnicities, ages and diagnosis were chosen to represent as many possible scenarios and outcomes. The team working on the project wanted to give hope and comfort to as many struggling parents as possible.

“This hallway provides a place of hope for them,” McMillan says. “To see that other families have faced something similar, to see children from toddlers to late twenties who are now thriving, is a reminder that life, growth and a future await beyond the confines of the hospital. We want this space to provide the hope for a brighter future.”

Employees are encouraged to visit the Hall of Hope located on the third floor of LLUCH NICU by entering through the doors near the nursery. Badge access is required.  

]]>
Thu, 11 Oct 2018 10:26:06 -0700
4264:35728 <![CDATA[Wisdom calls]]> By Kathy McMillan Does not wisdom call out?
    Does not understanding raise her voice?
 At the highest point along the way,
    where the paths meet, she takes her stand;
beside the gate leading into the city,
    at the entrance, she cries aloud:
“To you, O people, I call out;
    I raise my voice to all mankind.
You who are simple, gain prudence;
    you who are foolish, set your hearts on it.
Listen, for I have trustworthy things to say;
    I open my lips to speak what is right.

                                    –Proverbs 8:1-6

The summer before my junior year of high school, I joined a church-sponsored bike ride through the San Juan Islands in the Pacific Northwest. For one glorious week, 18 high school students and three adults pedaled around the islands, stood on the deck of ferries as the wind whipped through our hair, and struggled to eat enough calories to keep us fueled. The highlight of the trip was biking up Mount Constitution, the second highest mountain on an island in the United States. Familiar with the flat roads we had enjoyed for most of the trip, my legs ached as I neared the top. 

“Come on! You have to see this!” my friend called to me. She had just arrived at the summit and was clearly excited. Her words brought renewed energy as I pushed to the top where she stood, still panting from the long climb. “Look at that!” she said, pointing to the view. Below me, I could see the road I had just ascended, then Cascade Lake beyond, and finally dozens of islands for as far as I could see.   

When someone calls out to us, it’s often because they want to share something important with us. My friend’s excitement was contagious; she wanted to share the beauty she had discovered, and from the sound of her voice, I knew that the climb was going to be worth it.

In Proverbs 8, we read that wisdom personified calls out. She takes her place by the gate into the city where she is certain to be noticed, and she raises her voice as she proclaims, “Listen, for I have trustworthy things to say.” (Proverbs 8:6) 

I am encouraged by the location where wisdom is found in this chapter. The gate to the city was accessible to all. Whether someone was young or old, poor or privileged, wise or naïve, the gate was their access to the city. It was common ground.

Wisdom isn’t found only in the synagogue or local church. It isn’t just for the devout. Wisdom is for ordinary people; it is available in the most common places. Wisdom comes to us, calling out with the good news that the wisdom of God is relevant to all!

—Kathy McMillan is director for Employee Spiritual Care at Loma Linda University Medical Center.

]]>
Thu, 04 Oct 2018 09:10:48 -0700
4264:35729 <![CDATA[Are you cyber secure?]]> Loma Linda University Health is marking the 15th National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, an annual event each October that aims to ensure all Americans have the resources to stay safer and more secure online and to increase the country’s resilience against cyber-threats. The 2018 awareness month is a collaboration between government and industry.

Information Security Services at Loma Linda University Health is promoting to employees the 2018 theme — Cybersecurity is our shared responsibility and we all must work together to improve our nation’s cybersecurity.

“This October, and every day, follow these simple online safety tips provided by the Department of Homeland Security’s Stop.Think.Connect. campaign,” said Patrick Voon, chief information security officer at Loma Linda University Health. “We hope these tips will help keep you and your personal information safe and secure online.” 

  • Enable stronger authentication. Always enable stronger authentication for an extra layer of security beyond the password that is available on most major email, social media and financial accounts. Stronger authentication — for example, multi-factor authentication that texts a one-time code to a mobile device — helps verify that a user has authorized access to an online account. For more information about authentication, visit the Lock Down Your Login Campaign.
  • Make your passwords long and strong. Use complex passwords with a combination of numbers, symbols and letters. Use unique passwords for different accounts, particularly between personal and work accounts. Change your passwords regularly, especially if you believe they have been compromised.
  • Keep a clean machine. Update the security software, operating system and web browser on all of your Internet-connected devices. Keeping your security software up to date will prevent attackers from taking advantage of known technical flaws. 
  • When in doubt, throw it out. Links in email and online posts are often the method cybercriminals use to compromise your computer. If a link looks suspicious (even if you know the source), delete it.

                       Helpful infographic: Phishing Decision Tree.

  • Share with care. Limit the amount of personal information you share online and use privacy settings to avoid sharing information widely. 
  • Secure your wi-fi network. Your home’s wireless router is the primary entrance for cybercriminals to access all of your connected devices. Secure your wi-fi network, and your digital devices, by changing the factory-set default password and username.

Learn more about the services provided by Information Security at Loma Linda University by reading this FAQ on One Portal. 

]]>
Thu, 04 Oct 2018 09:13:18 -0700
4264:35730 <![CDATA[Support behavioral health patients through Seeds of Hope]]> The 11th annual Seeds of Hope dinner for the Behavioral Medicine Center at Loma Linda University Health aims to break down stigma about mental illness and provide hope for individuals struggling with mental health and addiction. 

The event will take place on Thursday, Oct. 11, providing an inspirational evening where attendees will hear from past patients at the Behavioral Medicine Center as well as award-winning writer, speaker and consultant Natasha Tracy. 

After arriving, guests will be invited to walk through a youth patient art exhibit that provides a glimmer into what young patients experience as they go through treatment and as they resume a healthy life afterward. 

The program and dinner will begin at 6 p.m. with opportunity drawings and a chance to win the grand prize trip to the Caribbean.

Proceeds from ticket sales and on-site donations will go toward providing scholarships to patients in need as well as the development of the new youth playground for children receiving care at the Behavioral Medicine Center. Those interested in attending can purchase individual tickets or entire tables.

“This mission-driven event will focus on educating the community on mental illness and addiction, as well as raising support for programs and services available at the Behavioral Medicine Center,” says Edward Field, MBA, vice president and administrator for the Behavioral Medicine Center.

The Oct. 11 event will be held in the fourth-floor conference room at Centennial Complex, located at 24760 Stewart Street in Loma Linda, California 92354. 

Register today at LLUBMC.org/SOH2018.

]]>
Thu, 04 Oct 2018 09:15:34 -0700
4264:35731 <![CDATA[Easier, faster staff recruitment/employee management is on the way]]> Loma Linda University Health is implementing a new cloud-based human resource management solution called LLEAD (Loma Linda Employee Access Destination). LLEAD will be implemented in three phases: talent acquisition, performance/compensation, and payroll. 

A key benefit of phase one — talent acquisition— will be a shortened timeline between recruiting top candidates and new employee onboarding requirements. This will ensure a quality experience for both hiring managers and potential candidates.

Phases two and three will empower managers and payroll/human resources staff with better workflow for annual performance evaluations, compensation and payroll.

The target go-live date for the first phase, using Oracle Talent Acquisition Cloud (OTAC), is February 2019. 

For more information about phase one implementation, visit One Portal and search for “LLEAD.” Questions about LLEAD or OTAC may be emailed to LLEAD@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 04 Oct 2018 09:16:38 -0700
4264:35732 <![CDATA[Health fair calls for Healthy Heroes — and volunteers]]> All are invited to the 2018 Family Health Fair and free 5K at Loma Linda University Health’s Drayson Center on Sunday, Oct. 28. 

The annual community event will offer more than 40 booths, providing free health screenings, flu shots for those ages 3 and over, a kid’s fun zone, live demonstrations, food and more. Full details about the day’s offerings, schedule and registering for the 5K walk/run are available at the fair's website

Providing this community benefit is only possible with the help of volunteers. Employees and students of Loma Linda University Health are invited to help make the day a success by registering to volunteer. Thank you.

]]>
Thu, 04 Oct 2018 09:18:10 -0700
4264:35733 <![CDATA[TB test clinic dates — October]]>  

Employee Health Services is offering a TB test clinic during the third week of October for staff who require an annual tuberculosis clearance. For employee convenience, the clinics will take place in Children’s Hospital rooms 1830/1832.

TB test placement will take place Monday, Oct. 15, from 7:30–10:30 a.m. in Children’s Hospital room 1832, with test reads offered Wednesday, Oct. 17, from 1:30–3:30 p.m. in room 1830.

These dates are available for employees who are within 30 days of their test due date.  

All TB tests that are placed must be read within 48-72 hours, either at the return clinic date or in Employee Health Services. Failure to have the TB test read will necessitate another TB test at the employee’s own expense. 

These clinics are offered in addition to the regular office hours of Employee Health Services. For more information, call Employee Health Services at ext. 88797, option 3.

]]>
Thu, 04 Oct 2018 09:19:31 -0700
4264:35726 <![CDATA[Notes from the President — One Loma Linda]]> By Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   October 2018
One Loma Linda

A decade of progress toward this important destination 

“Richard

The impact of significant decisions is often realized only when looking back some years later. Loma Linda University Health has had a series of these throughout its history. I want to share a recent one that is now delivering results.

Since its beginning, Loma Linda University Health has sought to balance its various functions. Some of the first board minutes record discussions on whether the organization was to be a college or a hospital. The answer was usually YES, it needed to be both, but that debate has gone back and forth through the years.

Now look back with me just a decade ago — 2008. Barack Obama had just been elected president, the economy was tanking, and a national discussion had started about a whole new healthcare system for the country. In that uncertainty, we were also facing a major decision. Along with many older hospitals in California, we had to construct a new hospital building to meet the state seismic requirements. It was a mandate, not a choice. Like others, we had been given a deadline — December, 2014 — just six short years ahead. Our initial plans to retrofit our current building, opened in 1967, became impractical. We started talking about a new pediatric/maternity hospital west of Loma Linda Academy, but the complications of having a new hospital on the other side of the railroad tracks from our current hospital was too expensive, with many unknowns.

So as the future of government healthcare — through the Affordable Care Act, dealing with Medicare and Medicaid — were being debated in Washington, we were trying to decide where and how to build a new hospital. We examined everything: how much it would cost, where funding would come from, size and scope of the project, services it would offer, new technologies being developed, what healthcare would look like in 20 or 30 years, as well as who would be paying for the many patients we would be expected to care for and at what reimbursement levels.

Quite apart from the challenges of a new building was a parallel set of concerns. How should Loma Linda University Health organize itself for the future? Was our current model, with four separate governing boards, adequate to handle the new realities? How closely should we be tied together — a tree trunk with three major, sometimes competing, branches — the university, the hospitals, and the physician practices? Or should our relationships be different? If something threatened the hospital viability in this uncertain period, could the university or physicians survive on their own?  

“Converging

In this period of both external and internal uncertainties, we did a lot of soul-searching.  These were big decisions with implications for generations to come. We needed to get it right. It was in that context that the idea of One Loma Linda came up. Rather than separating our entities completely, as many academic health science centers were doing, should we come together more tightly?   

In times like these, I am always encouraged by reviewing our history — the many tough questions that those before us have faced with God’s help. One of my biggest concerns was how we could maintain our mission most effectively. How could we keep an expanded, united entity singularly focused on the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ?    

We use a consensus model of decision-making on this campus, so the idea of One Loma Linda was discussed many times in various forums. One of our biggest concerns was how to get our doctors and hospitals to collaborate more effectively. Typically, in America, they compete for limited funds, but we needed more efficiencies — better quality for less money — to remain competitive.  

Over several years, the momentum gradually built, enthusiasm replaced doubt, and actual plans to make One Loma Linda operative were developed. With that commitment, the decisions about the organization and funding of the new hospital became clearer. Plans were finalized, systems put in place, and a timeline for construction was developed. State deadlines were eventually pushed back, funding was secured, and the building project is now well underway.

I am deeply grateful for all my colleagues who have helped actualize this One Loma Linda strategy, with a shared governing board. Collaboration is at an all-time high across the campus and efficiencies have been realized. A report from the Advisory Board shows that we are now the most cost-effective teaching hospital in California. New student learning opportunities have opened up throughout our system. Finally, a merger into a combined financial system on the same fiscal year, with one audit, has been accomplished. We have truly moved to a shared governance and management model.

So once again, are we a hospital or a university? The answer is still YES, and we intend to stay that way. As the new hospital goes up, our physician groups continue to expand and the university is conducting its research and educational programs. We are keenly aware of the opportunities and responsibilities of being One Loma Linda — together. While the journey is not over, we’re on the right track.

“Richard 

 

 

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

 

Vision 2020 – The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow

Office of the President, Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda, CA 92350

Copyright © 2018 by Loma Linda University Health

lluh.org

]]>
Thu, 04 Oct 2018 09:03:47 -0700
4264:35627 <![CDATA[Trusting is Finding — a devotional]]> By Terry Swenson When I was a boy, one of the things that amazed me about my father was the way he always knew how to find places. I was too young to really understand the concept of a map (now a near bygone in the era of GPS).

All I knew was that once we hopped in the car, all you had to do was tell Dad where you wanted to go, and you’d get there. Now, whether due to growing up, today’s dependence on technology or something else, my days of just trusting I will end up where I need to be have long passed. 

You can’t even trust navigation apps all the time. Once I spent a day in downtown London, running all over the place because my app was redirecting me in all the wrong directions! 

I don’t think I am the only one who feels unsure about reaching my destination. It feels somewhat like being the man who wears suspenders and a belt. What does that say about us?

We don’t really trust our own instincts. We don’t really trust others trying to tell us how and where to go. We are uneasy about the accuracy of our techno-guidance. Yet, in the biblical book of Proverbs, we encounter these directives in chapter 3:5-6.

(5) Trust in the Lordwith all your heart;
do not depend on your own understanding.

(6) Seek His will in all you do,
and He will show you which path to take.

Verse 6 sounds fine to us. We can seek the will of God. We can read scripture. We can dice and parse and discuss what it says. We can discern the direction that God wants us to go. We can codify and indoctrinate beliefs and creeds. That’s fine with us. Why is that? 

Perhaps it is because we are in control of it. We do the seeking. We do the discerning. It feels safe and good to us. 

But verse 5! Verse 5 is way out of the comfort zone for many of us.

Just trust? Don’t depend on our understanding? Don’t depend on what we can know and see? Just let go of our control? 

That is the stuff of nightmares in the dark of night. How could that ever work?

Answer the following question honestly in the quiet of your thoughts: “How are things working out for you when you are in control?” 

The key word we need to focus on from our passage in Proverbs is the word “trust.” 

Trust is defined as “the firm belief in the reliability, truth, ability, or strength of someone or something.” Trust is built upon experiences with someone. Trust grows as we perceive the caring, loving, trustful acts of another. We, as humans, make mistakes. We fall short. We break trust. A friend once told me, “I don’t trust anybody but me — and I’m still not sure about me!”

 It is crucial to note whom today’s passage asks us to trust — the Lord. 

Exploring requires us to leave where we are and go do something different. If where you are isn’t working for you or filling you, how about doing a little exploring to see who Jesus is and if He can be trusted? 

Who knows what you might find. And isn’t that what exploring is all about?

—Terry Swenson, DMin, is director of University Spiritual Care at Loma Linda University. 

 

]]>
Thu, 27 Sep 2018 08:50:38 -0700
4264:35628 <![CDATA[Discovering health policy: the high cost of pharmaceuticals, maternity leave policies and more]]> News of the Week presents the September 2018 monthly roundup of resources from the Institute for Health Policy and Leadership at Loma Linda University Health. 

In addition, previewed below is the next Spotlight on Health Policy event, taking place in October. 

The Institute for Health Policy and Leadership is an active player in analyzing current issues, bills and laws dealing with health; curating coverage of key national news regarding healthcare, public health and science; and assessing implications for Seventh-day Adventist health systems.

September 2018 policy resources 

Healthcare News at a Glance weekly briefs

Sept. 19 issue

Sept. 12 issue

Sept. 5 issue

Issue at a Glance monthly brief

September 2018 – “Outdoor Air Pollution in California

Policy at a Glance monthly brief

September 2018 – “State & Federal Policies for Maternity Leave

Health Policy Connection blog posts – September 2018

        Sept 12:What To Do About the High Cost of Pharmaceuticals? Part 1: Drug Importation

Sept 25: “What To Do About the High Cost of Pharmaceuticals? Part 2: Negotiating Drug Prices through Medicare & Becoming a Single-Payer System

Event: Spotlight on Health Policy

The next Spotlight on Health Policy event will take place Wednesday, Oct. 24, from noon to 1 p.m. at Loma Linda University Medical Center’s A-level Amphitheater.

Jayanth Kumar, DDS, MPH, state dental director with the California Department of Public Health, will discuss “Collaboration to Implement the California Oral Health Plan.”

Learn more: ihpl@llu.edu or ext. 87022

 

 

]]>
Thu, 27 Sep 2018 08:51:27 -0700
4264:35629 <![CDATA[Calling all photographers: Prayer Notes contest]]> Employees and students are invited to submit their nature or animal photographs for the annual contest at Loma Linda University Health to be featured on the patient care Prayer Notes.

Up to 10 photos per employee or student may be entered by the deadline of Friday, Oct. 12. Submissions must have been photographed by the entrant.

Similar to a postcard, each Prayer Note features a serene nature or animal photo on the front and an encouraging verse of scripture on the back. The cards say, “I prayed for you today and asked God to bless you.” 

To fit the format, photos must be inspirational, in color and of nature or animals, and they must be able to be cropped to 5.5 by 3.5 inches — either vertical or horizontal — without losing impact.

In addition to winners having their photos featured on the cards and online, prizes are as follows:

  • 1st place – $100 gift card 
  • 2nd place – $75 gift card 
  • 3rd place – $50 gift card 
  • Runners up  – $25 gift card 

Submit photographs on CD or flash drive to Kathy McMillan in the Department of Employee Spiritual Care, located in Medical Center room 6700H, or email them to kmcmillan@llu.edu.

Full contest details

lluh.org/photo-contest

Or download this flyer:

]]>
Thu, 27 Sep 2018 08:51:42 -0700
4264:35630 <![CDATA[Supporting our millennials with Learning to Lead]]> Loma Linda University Health is launching a revamped initiative called Learning to Lead (L2L), a campus program that provides networking and growth opportunities for the organization’s millennial-aged professionals (born between 1981–1996).

The first event will be a lunch-and-learn Wednesday, Oct. 17, from noon to 1 p.m. in the Coleman Pavilion’s Brian and Maureen Bull School of Medicine Lounge, featuring speaker Scott Perryman, MBA, senior vice president for Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital. He will talk about emerging leadership styles within a changing demographic in the workforce. RSVP by Oct. 12.

About half of the employees at Loma Linda University Health are millennials, according to Human Resource Management.

Departments are encouraged to support their employees of this age group in taking time during work hours to participate in Learning to Lead programs and activities.

Learning to Lead began on campus a few years ago as a grassroots program helmed by millennial employees. Human Resource Management is now formalizing those early efforts to support Loma Linda University Health’s millennial team members.

“These employees are the future of our organization,” said David Conkerite II, MBA, director of management residency and business internship programs.  

Opportunities to learn and be mentored

Learning to Lead will offer a variety of opportunities for career development for millennials, such as:

• Leadership conversations—lunch & learns, development seminars, panel discussions.

• Small groups and clubs— public speaking, book clubs, cooking clubs, think tanks and more. 

• Networking and socializing— mixers, vespers, interactive events.

Discover more

Mentors and speakers for future L2L programs are needed; leaders and subject matter experts of all ages are welcome to sign-up to participate and share ideas.

To discover more about Learning to Lead, please email L2L@llu.edu or contact Katie Heinrich at 909-651-4001 (or ext. 14001).

]]>
Thu, 27 Sep 2018 08:52:01 -0700
4264:35631 <![CDATA[Level I Trauma Center status validated at national level]]> Both Loma Linda University Medical Center and Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital were recently verified as Level I Trauma Centers by the American College of Surgeons (ACS). The new verification sets a gold standard, validating the hospitals’ commitment to providing the best possible trauma care at every stage of the patient experience, from the prehospital level to rehabilitation and beyond.

LLU Medical Center has been designated for more than three decades as a Level I Trauma Center by San Bernardino County and the state of California. 

That designation is now nationally verified by the ACS–Committee on Trauma. Although the state of California provides the trauma designation, it is increasingly relying upon the ACS for this verification to help evaluate and further improve trauma care within each hospital participating in the trauma system.

Under the leadership of David Turay, MD, Loma Linda University Medical Center was verified as a Level I Adult Trauma Center, and under the leadership of Donald Moores, MD, LLU Children’s Hospital was verified as a Level I Pediatric Trauma Center.  

These are the only Level I Adult and Pediatric Trauma Centers in the Inland Empire, with the Medical Center serving three counties and LLU Children’s Hospital serving four counties. 

Both hospitals were verified during a two-day inspection through the ACS Verification, Review and Consultation Program, which conducted an on-site assessment of both hospitals’ resources and performance. Some assessed features included level of commitment, readiness to provide care, availability of resources, comprehensive policies regarding trauma care, overall quality of patient care and the existence of a robust performance improvement program. 

Loma Linda University Medical Center’s ACS verification will last for one year. LLU Children’s Hospital’s verification will last for three years.

]]>
Thu, 27 Sep 2018 08:52:16 -0700
4264:35632 <![CDATA[New chief nursing officer joins LLU Medical Center]]> Denise Robinson, DNP, RN, MPH, WOCN, became the chief nursing officer for Loma Linda University Medical Center on Sept. 17.

Robinson takes over the position from Jan Kroetz, MN, RN, NE-BC, who was promoted last December to senior vice president of patient care services for Loma Linda University Health but continued to serve as CNO during the interim period.

Robinson comes to Loma Linda University Medical Center from BronxCare Health System in Bronx, New York, where she most recently served as executive nurse consultant to the chief nursing officer. Robinson’s previous nursing leadership roles include director of nursing at The Mount Sinai Hospital and patient care director at New York-Presbyterian/Columbia University Medical Center. Her 20 years of high-level nursing leadership experience have also included working with Magnet re-designation, nursing quality and patient safety, and best practice project valuation.

Robinson holds a doctorate in nursing practice from Case Western Reserve University and a master’s degree from Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health.

Robinson said she affirms a commitment to continuing Loma Linda University Medical Center’s journey to Magnet Recognition from the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Guiding that journey, she believes, should be servant leadership and the Quality Caring Model  — a nursing practice Loma Linda University Medical Center follows, developed by Joanne R. Duffy.* 

  

*Duffy, J.R. Quality Caring in Nursing: Applying Theory to Clinical Practice, Education, and Leadership. Springer Publishing Company, New York. 2009.

]]>
Thu, 27 Sep 2018 08:52:29 -0700
4264:35633 <![CDATA[Influenza immunization requirements begin]]> Employee Health Services is now offering influenza immunizations for employees of Loma Linda University Health in preparation for the 2018-2019 flu season.

Employees must participate in the annual influenza vaccination campaign. All employees who enter clinical areas must either receive the influenza immunization or provide a written declination, as required by California Senate Bill 739, if they work a single day from Oct. 1, 2018, through March 31, 2019.

Employees who do not receive the immunization must wear a mask beginning Nov. 1 and continuing at least through March 2019, by order of the San Bernardino County Health Department. They must also complete their declination form by Dec. 31.

Staff members who receive the flu vaccine through Employee Health Services will be given an orange-and-white sticker for their badges, signifying their immunized status. 

The vaccinations are available by attending one of the mobile vaccination clinics around campus (schedule below). Badge required.

Employees may also receive their vaccination at another location and obtain the orange-and-white badge sticker by completing a “received elsewhere” form.

Forms

Find the “received elsewhere” and declination forms on One Portal.

Learn more

To learn more, visit the Employee Health Services page on One Portal, or call ext. 88797, or email employeehealthservices@llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 27 Sep 2018 08:52:45 -0700
4264:35560 <![CDATA[Devotional — What's In It for Me? ]]> Proverbs 2:1–6

We often speak about how connected we are as a human society due to technology and various forms of communication — social media, walkie-talkie messaging, and video chats to name a few. The converse of that is equally true; we feel isolated in the midst of these virtual relationships and contrived communal spaces.

Within our Loma Linda University Health context, this feeling of aloneness may be exacerbated by the pursuit of academic excellence, by the pressure to meet deadlines, to raise satisfaction scores, to stay within the budget or to meet compliance regulations internally and externally.

We experience this together in a multicultural, multi-faith, multigenerational milieu. How can we effectively meet our organizational mission? Where can we glean wisdom to navigate this 2018–2019 academic year? I think one of the ways to accomplish this is to connect, listen and explore our shared human experiences.

A continuing source of wisdom for me has been the scriptures, especially the book of Proverbs. In the second chapter, we encounter words of prudence from a father to a son, imploring him to “receive my words and treasure my commandments within you, make your ear attentive to wisdom, incline your heart to understanding.” —Proverbs 2:1-2

I remember as a teen and young adult receiving counsel from my mother, grandmother, aunt or any other adult. My automatic response was, “I know, I know.” 

On one occasion my Mom pointed out the importance of accepting the unsolicited wisdom because she said I didn’t know when it would come in handy. Those were indeed words to live by. Developing curiosity and seeking to learn from others creates a climate to receive and share wisdom. Those early experiences of listening to people who were older than I have contributed to the person I am today. Wisdom is something to be pursued, treasured, remembered and passed to others.

The person who intentionally seeks wisdom will not be disappointed. According to the father in Proverbs 2, there are so many dividends in searching for wisdom — a direct path to God, protection from temptation and evil, and a pleasant life.

While we grapple with how to provide quality healthcare, remain on mission, or prepare the next generation of healthcare professionals or researchers, it is my hope that we don’t miss out on the opportunity to learn from each other. There is much wisdom lurking in our classrooms, labs, offices and hallways. 

I hope you will join me in seeking it out. At a minimum, I am sure that we will discover together from the book of Proverbs that the father was right: “For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” —Proverbs 2:6

 

—Dilys Brooks, MDiv, is campus chaplain for Loma Linda University.

 

]]>
Thu, 20 Sep 2018 08:54:01 -0700
4264:35562 <![CDATA[Wellness Live — the ABCs of vaccines]]> Communicating ideas, facts and falsehoods about vaccines helps people know the truth behind the commonly-debated subject. A free webinar, titled “ABCs of Vaccines: Facts vs. Myths,” will be live-streamed on Wednesday, Sept. 26, from 5:30–6 p.m.

Viewers will be able to ask questions and interact live with featured speaker Noreen Chan Tompkins, PharmD, about the important facts about vaccines. The live presentation will be hosted by Olivia Moses, DrPH, CWHC, director of Corporate Health and Wellness.

The webinar will be available at Loma Linda University Health’s Facebook page or at myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole/wellnesslive

For more information, call 909-651-4007.

Viewers who missed last month’s live broadcast on life’s legalities by Christian W. Johnston, JD, can view it on demand, along with numerous past presentations, in the Wellness Live archive.  

]]>
Thu, 20 Sep 2018 08:55:41 -0700
4264:35564 <![CDATA[University's fall chapel schedule released]]> The university chaplains invite one and all from Loma Linda University Health to attend Fall 2018’s University @ Worship, held Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 11:50 a.m. at Loma Linda University Church. This year’s theme, Explore, focuses on bringing students and faculty together to live, love, learn and lead. 

Chaplain Dilys Brooks explains the meaning behind this theme:

“One only has to read the news headlines, tweets or view video clips to surmise that we are becoming a more closed society. We are creating a culture of insiders and outsiders. Though we have access to information and technology to discover more about each other, we seem to spend more time finding fault, hurling insults or retreating to what is familiar. Would it make a difference if we practiced connecting, listening and exploring what we have in common as human beings? This is uncomfortable and difficult yet worthwhile work.”

This schoolyear’s chapel services will investigate this process as told from the perspective of a Greek historian, physician and world traveler. The services will explore living like Jesus, exploring like Jesus and loving like Jesus as revealed in the gospel of Luke.

“What we uncover will challenge and empower us to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ at Loma Linda University Health,” Brooks said. “Get ready to be confronted, to be invited to move out of our comfort zones."

The fall quarter schedule of speakers is as follows:

Sept. 26 — School chapels
Oct. 3 — LLU Convocation
Oct. 8–12 — Week of Renewal with Terry Swenson and Dilys Brooks
Oct. 17 — Lt. Cmdr. Adrienne Benton
Oct. 24 — Randy Roberts
Oct. 31 — Carla Gober-Park
Nov. 7 — Carl Ricketts
Nov. 14 — Tyler Stewart
Nov. 28 — Isai Moran
Dec. 5 — Courtney Fadlin (all music)

]]>
Thu, 20 Sep 2018 08:56:31 -0700
4264:35567 <![CDATA[Nightly work at Schuman Pavilion Sept. 24-Oct. 5]]> Daart Engineering Company will begin working on campus Monday night, Sept. 24, to reroute fire safety lines at Schuman Pavilion. The work will continue nightly, from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m., starting Sept. 24 and ending on the evening of Oct. 5.

The majority of activity will occur outside Schuman Pavilion’s front entrance at the patient drop-off turnaround necessitating temporary sidewalk removal. These walkways will be covered with steel plates during daytime to minimize impact for pedestrians and valet services, and new concrete sidewalks will be poured after the construction.  

A portion of the work will also take place in the southeast stairwell of Schuman Pavilion. 

All construction activities have been coordinated with Environmental Health & Safety, Epidemiology, Facilities Management, Security Services and Hospitality Services. Interim Life Safety Measures in the Medical Center and additional fire watch will be enacted as needed.

Rerouting of the Schuman Pavilion fire lines will accommodate new construction to support building the new hospital complex. 

To learn more, email eschilt@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 20 Sep 2018 08:58:09 -0700
4264:35570 <![CDATA[ Your guide to the Epic 2018 upgrade]]> The 2018 upgrade of the Epic electronic medical record system — known at Loma Linda University Health as LLEAP (Loma Linda Electronic Access Portal) — is almost here.

The key dates to know are as follows:

            • Sept. 21–Nov. 12 — Production "freeze"

Non-critical changes to LLEAP will be temporarily suspended to ensure technical stability prior to and following the upgrade.

            • Saturday, Oct. 20 — System downtime

LLEAP will be unavailable for four to six hours, beginning at 10 p.m.

            • Sunday, Oct. 21 — Go Live  

Epic’s 2018 upgrade will go live across Loma Linda University Health.*

Education and support

Super Users will be the first line of troubleshooting support for staff. Super Users will work with the Service Desk on any issues they are unable to resolve. Providers who seek technical support should contact the Service Desk directly, as they do not have Super Users.

Employees can stay current on important updates in tools and workflows by reviewing documentation in their Learning Home Dashboard in LLEAP (see example) and in OWL Portal.

In addition, the LLEAP “play” (PLY) environment has already been upgraded and allows employees to practice using the new system without impacting patient care.

For further information, visit One Portal’s Epic 2018 upgrade page or email Epic2018Upgrade@llu.edu.

* With the exception of LLU Medical Center – Murrieta, which will adopt LLEAP as its electronic medical record system on Nov. 4.

]]>
Thu, 20 Sep 2018 08:59:39 -0700
4264:35515 <![CDATA[A Life in Harmony — a devotional]]> By Randy Roberts Proverbs 1:20–25

I love the Old Testament book of Proverbs. But it wasn’t always this way. There was a time when I didn’t find it to be of much use at all. 

It seemed to me to be a book filled with outmoded sayings my grandmother might have used to keep me in line. You know, maybe something warning me about the friends I chose — “Birds of a feather flock together” — or making certain I understood that there were consequences to my choices — “If you’re going to lie down with dogs, you’re going to get up with fleas.”

I certainly didn’t need a whole book like that!

But, as I got older, I started reading it more seriously, with some help to sort through the ancient language, metaphors and images, and I actually began to appreciate the points the writer was making. There was still a problem, though. 

I would read a proverb such as “Train up a child in the way they should go, and when they are older, they will not depart from it”(see Proverbs 22:6), and I would think, “Life does not always work out that way. No matter how well a child is parented, it does not guarantee that the child will always make wise, godly choices.”

It was then that a point from a biblical scholar helped me. He said, “The book’s name is not Promises. The book’s name is Proverbs. In other words, this book is not made up of the ironclad guarantees of God. Rather, it is made up of statements and assertions that essentially say, ‘When you live life on God’s terms, this is the way that life usually tends to work out.’”

The book has a word for that, and that word is wisdom.

Simply put, then, wisdom is living life in a way that reflects the mind, will and thinking of God. And when we live lives of wisdom, life usually works out in sound and healthy ways.

Paul, in the New Testament, has his own way of saying that. He says, “Do not be deceived. God cannot be mocked. People reap what they sow” (Galatians 6:7).

So, with that background in mind, consider these words from the first chapter of the book of Proverbs:

Out in the open wisdom calls aloud,
she raises her voice in the public square;
on top of the wall she cries out,
at the city gate she makes her speech:
“How long will you who are simple love your simple ways?
How long will mockers delight in mockery
and fools hate knowledge?
Repent at my rebuke!
Then I will pour out my thoughts to you,
I will make known to you my teachings.

–Proverbs 1:20–23

Most of us recognize that eating a healthy diet, exercising, getting sufficient rest and nurturing a healthy emotional life will not guarantee that we live healthy to an old age, but it will increase the likelihood that such will happen. In fact, it may significantlyincrease that likelihood. 

It’s the same way with wisdom. Living wisely (in harmony with God’s principles) in the way He calls us to does not guarantee that all will work out well. But it certainly increases that likelihood.

So, pull out the book of Proverbs (in a contemporary translation) and read it today. Consider the ways and will of God. And realize that, through it, today, wisdom calls out to you: “Live life in a way that harmonizes with God’s desires, and just see how life turns out!”

Randy Roberts, DMin, is vice president for spiritual life and mission at Loma Linda University Health. 

]]>
Wed, 12 Sep 2018 17:32:13 -0700
4264:35516 <![CDATA[30-minute internet interruption at Medical Center to occur next week]]> Loma Linda University Medical Center will replace its internet firewalls to improve performance capability on Sunday, Sept. 16, from 4–8 a.m. During this replacement, internet access will be unavailable for 30 minutes, from 4:30–5 a.m. 

This will affect the following internet-based services: 

  • LLU Medical Center guest internet
  • External access to Epic Care Link
  • Epic Interconnect Services
  • One Portal
  • External access to Impaxmobile
  • Outpatient Pharmacy DMZ servers
  • MyRUHealth.org
  • Bomgar remote assistance
  • SPOK paging
  • API
  • Peoplesoft
  • LLIFT
  • Filet2 (secure file transfer)
  • Telemed
  • OWA
  • Jabber
  • Proofpoint
  • Agfa External
  • Alertus

Business VPN access will not be affected.

To address questions or concerns, please contact the Service Desk at ext. 48889.

]]>
Wed, 12 Sep 2018 17:33:41 -0700
4264:35517 <![CDATA[New dean for School of Pharmacy announced]]> Loma Linda University administrators announced last week that Michael D. Hogue, PharmD, will become the next dean of the School of Pharmacy on Jan. 1, 2019.

Hogue will take over for Marilyn Herrmann, PhD, who has served as interim dean of the school since June.

Hogue has served in various roles at the McWhorter School of Pharmacy at Samford University College of Health Sciences in Birmingham, Alabama, including interim dean, professor and pharmacy practice department chair. He currently serves as associate dean for the university’s Center for Faith and Health. 

Read the full story at news.llu.edu.

]]>
Wed, 12 Sep 2018 17:34:59 -0700
4264:35518 <![CDATA[Faculty Colloquium and University Blessing — Sept. 20]]> Ahead of the first day of autumn classes beginning Sept. 24, Loma Linda University will host Faculty Colloquium on Thursday, Sept. 20, featuring Duke University expert scholar Harold Koenig, MD, presenting on “Spirituality and Health.” The presentation will meet from 10–11 a.m. at University Church, and pick up again at 1:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. in the Damazo Amphitheater at Centennial Complex. Read more or email provost@llu.edu for further information. 

In between, leadership will hold a University Blessing dedication service for the 2018–2019 academic year. It will take place at 11 a.m., Thursday, Sept. 20, at Loma Linda University Church. All LLU faculty and staff are invited. 

]]>
Wed, 12 Sep 2018 17:37:05 -0700
4264:35519 <![CDATA[Protocol for Cisco telephone interruptions next week]]> A software update to Cisco telephony will create brief, intermittent downtimes from Sunday, Sept. 16, at 9 a.m. through Monday, Sept. 17, at 6 a.m.

During this time, individual Cisco phones will freeze for a few seconds while the update is applied. Older Nortel phones will not be affected. 

If necessary, employees should follow backup procedures for Code Blue or urgent activation requests (use of emergency gray phones). Overhead announcements will be used for emergency activations during a service interruption.

Please contact the Service Desk at ext. 48889 to address any questions.

]]>
Wed, 12 Sep 2018 17:37:53 -0700
4264:35412 <![CDATA[Dare to Rideshare for a day — and win]]> The annual Inland Empire Rideshare Week is slated for Oct. 1–5, offering commuters a chance to win prizes when they are one of the first 1,000 individuals to pledge an earth-friendly commute for one day that week. The options are to carpool or vanpool, take public transportation, or bike or walk.

Loma Linda University Health employees are encouraged to participate by pledging online or picking up a paper form at the Department of Rideshare, Parking & Traffic Services. Pledges will be accepted through Oct. 22.

Learn more: IECommuter.org

]]>
Wed, 05 Sep 2018 09:46:27 -0700
4264:35411 <![CDATA[Words to Live By — a devotional]]> By Dilys Brooks “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; Fools despise wisdom and instruction.” –Proverbs 1:7

I celebrated the anniversary of my birth recently, and one of the hallmarks of getting older is taking stock of where you have been and looking toward the future. Often I catch myself reflecting on sayings from Scriptures, such as “There is nothing new under the sun” (Ecclesiastes 1:7), or sayings from my mother, such as “Hard of hearing people never live half of their days.” 

I have found both comfort and inspiration from these reflections. At other times, I have been challenged, even corrected, as I considered the wisdom of these statements.

Wisdom sayings have played a huge part in my life, whether through memorizing Scripture or hearing my mother repeat an adage when she tried to teach me a lesson that she hoped would stick. To my chagrin, as I have matured I, also, use some of these proverbs from my Afro-Caribbean-American culture — as well as some I’ve picked up from other people groups and reading Scripture.  

As an organization, we have mission and vision statements, benchmarks and outcomes that serve as guiding principles for the work we do as a healthcare corporation. Now, as we begin the fourth quarter of the year and prepare to welcome new and returning students in a few weeks, we would like to spend the next 52 Thursdays in News of the Week exploring wisdom. 

It is wisdom that will help us know as a community how to connect, listen with empathy and discover the gifts of all who make up our one Loma Linda University Health family.

The biblical Book of Proverbs, or “words to the wise” (Proverbs 22:17), will serve as our instruction manual as we embark on this journey of exploration. This body of literature will help us to integrate our faith and everyday life. Proverbs 1:7 invites us to place our reverence for God as the foundation for any learning that we hope to begin. I truly believe that there is no need to repeat negative actions from the past, hoping for new results.  

Wisdom requires us to look back, learn from the past and press forward with bold faith that God indeed is our foundation and source of power.  

The proverbs of Solomon the son of David, king of Israel:
To know wisdom and instruction,
To discern the sayings of understanding,
To receive instruction in wise behavior,
Righteousness, justice and equity;
To give prudence to the naive,
To the youth knowledge and discretion,
A wise man will hear and increase in learning,
And a man of understanding will acquire wise counsel,
To understand a proverb and a figure,
The words of the wise and their riddles. 

–Proverbs 1:1-6

These are indeed words to live by. 

—Dilys Brooks, MDiv, is the chaplain for University Spiritual Care at Loma Linda University.

]]>
Wed, 05 Sep 2018 09:46:15 -0700
4264:35414 <![CDATA[Site visit scheduled with HIMSS Analytics for outpatient areas]]> Loma Linda University Health is nearing the finish line in achieving Stage 7 status for the Outpatient Electronic Medical Record Adoption Model (O-EMRAM) from HIMSS Analyticsa healthcare industry organization that promotes best practices for optimizing patient care.

Site visitors from HIMSS Analytics will come to campus Tuesday, Sept. 25, to validate Loma Linda University Health’s outpatient care sites’ achievement of Stage 7 — the highest level of the adoption model, held by less than 11 percent of outpatient facilities in the United States (as of fourth quarter 2017). 

The three-person team will visit the following locations.

• Outpatient Surgery Center

• Pediatric Clinic (at Meridian Loma Linda Professional Center)

• Faculty Medical Offices:

• Endocrinology
• Gastroenterology
• Primary Care

Employees in these departments and general areas may be approached by the HIMSS team, who are evaluating our organization’s use of technology to support patient care. Things to keep in mind: reducing paper use, understanding downtime procedures, and using tools for reporting and analytics.

Learn more about this initiative and how to prepare for the visit on the One Portal page.

Loma Linda University Health has previously earned Stage 7 status of HIMSS Analytics’ Inpatient Electronic Medical Record Adoption Model for LLU Medical Center, including East Campus and Surgical Hospital, LLU Children’s Hospital and LLU Behavioral Medicine Center. 

Fewer than 5 percent of organizations have achieved Stage 7 on both the Inpatient and Outpatient EMRAMs.

]]>
Wed, 05 Sep 2018 09:46:57 -0700
4264:35413 <![CDATA[TB test clinic dates — September]]> Employee Health Services is offering a TB test clinic during the last week of September for staff who require an annual tuberculosis clearance. For employee convenience, the clinics will take place in Children’s Hospital room 1832.

TB test placement will take place Tuesday, Sept. 25, from 7:30–10:30 a.m., with test reads offered Thursday, Sept. 27, from 1:30–3:30 p.m. 

These dates are available for employees who are within 30 days of their test due date.  

All TB tests that are placed must be read within 48-72 hours, either at the return clinic date or in Employee Health Services. Failure to have the TB test read will necessitate another TB test at the employee’s own expense. 

An additional test placement opportunity will take place Oct. 15 from 7:30–10:30 a.m. in room 1832 at Children’s Hospital, with reads on Oct. 17 from 1:30–3:30 p.m. in room 1830.

These clinics are offered in addition to the regular office hours of Employee Health Services. For more information, call Employee Health Services at ext. 88797, option 3.

]]>
Wed, 05 Sep 2018 09:46:40 -0700
4264:35417 <![CDATA[Payroll survey seeks employee feedback]]> The Payroll department at Loma Linda University Health has launched its annual survey, inviting employee feedback about the services it provides. The brief survey closes Friday, Sept. 28.

Those who take the survey will be entered to win a $100 Visa gift card if they include their name and employee ID number. Otherwise, the survey is anonymous. The winner will be notified Oct. 4 and be featured in the upcoming 2018 Payroll Newsletter along with the survey results.

The survey provides valuable feedback to the Department of Payroll about how it serves employees and the needs of Loma Linda University, Loma Linda University Medical Center, LLU Children’s Hospital, LLU Behavioral Medicine Center, LLU Medical Center – Murrieta, Loma Linda University Health Care, LLU Shared Services and Loma Linda University Health Education Consortium.

]]>
Wed, 05 Sep 2018 09:47:42 -0700
4264:35418 <![CDATA['Freeze' coming for LLEAP production requests]]> Information Services at Loma Linda University Health will hold all discretionary production requests related to LLEAP (Loma Linda Electronic Access Portal) for the duration of Sept. 21–Nov. 12. 

The suspension will ensure technical stability prior to and following the Epic 2018 upgrade, which will go live Sunday, Oct. 21. 

The Information Services team offers its thanks to users impacted by the freeze.

]]>
Wed, 05 Sep 2018 09:48:02 -0700
4264:35416 <![CDATA[Notes from the President — Educational challenges ahead]]> By Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   September 2018
Educational challenges ahead

The Seventh-day Adventist school system is part of this nation’s trend for parochial schools

“Richard

I recognize that many of you who read these notes are not Loma Linda University alumni, nor did you come from an Adventist background or attend Adventist schools. But I invite you to look over my shoulder as I reflect on my concerns for an incredible educational system that is now struggling in some quarters. The Adventist school system is a reflection of this country’s numerous parochial school systems, so there is perhaps a message here for us all.

First, a few stats. The Seventh-day Adventist Church has one of the largest educational systems in the world, with over 8,000 schools, including 113 colleges and universities, serving 1.8 million students each day. Many of those are in countries desperate for education and may be in a city or rural village. Here in the United States we have 13 colleges and universities with a total of nearly 24,000 students. The Adventist Church also has 854 primary and secondary schools in the U.S., which is impressive by any standard.

My own educational journey is a classic example of this system. I grew up in Troy, Idaho, where our little church of 65 members supported Big Meadow church school, a two-room, two teacher school in the country, with 25 students in all eight grades. While expensive labs were non-existent, we learned from each other and the nature around us. I went on to Upper Columbia Academy near Spokane, Washington, where we worked hard, at 40 cents an hour as I recall, studied even harder, and prepared ourselves for our individual futures. It was an insulated, controlled environment to be sure. But we survived, met future spouses, including mine, and marched into the working world or on to college.

Those schools provided a unique experience that nurtured service to others, cemented core values, provided lifelong friends, developed unknown musical talents, and truly became a home away from home. But times have changed, and the Adventist Church has closed 248 primary and secondary schools in this country in the last 15 years: that’s 19 percent of them. The Adventist Church has closed one of its colleges — Atlantic Union College outside Boston — and several more are creatively fighting to survive. While Loma Linda University itself is somewhat insulated from these struggles, we feel the effect, with fewer Adventist students coming up through our traditional “feeder” system.  

There are many reasons for these transitions. Affordability often tops the list. In the old days, I witnessed Adventist families sacrifice to keep their kids in church schools. Some of our schools are blessed with committed alumni who are developing endowment funds to provide scholarships for worthy students. But many do not have those resources. Other schools have expanded their identity to the broader Christian community, successfully marketing their educational brand to other Christian families. Still others are tapping into the wealthy international student movement, often from China, who want their children learning English in a safe environment.

These changes raise some very basic questions I invite you to consider. In a country with growing social problems and concerns, is there still a place for a sheltered school setting with carefully thought-out values and mores? Or is this an outdated concept that no longer provides value for the cost? Are there other ways to maintain a culture of service and commitment for our young people? Would it be possible to once again develop campus industries that could provide a way for kids to earn much of their tuition while still benefiting from living and studying together under Christian tutelage? While our public educational system has many good characteristics, it exposes young minds to influences we may want to avoid.

The ultimate question is measuring the relative value of our educational system in providing young people with the orientation, values, and skills necessary to not only compete but provide meaning in their future lives. Loma Linda University’s own alumni, many of whom came from the Adventist system, reported the highest rating in a recent national survey when asked if they were making the world a better place. Finding this meaning in life by following one’s dream of serving others would seem to be the ultimate goal of education.  

As Loma Linda University has watched our own “pipeline” get smaller, we have launched several initiatives that may help. With support from Tom and Vi Zapara, we have been offering a STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) enhancement program for elementary and high school science teachers for the last seven years, called EXSEED. Nearly a thousand teachers have spent a week on our campus with our scientists and educators learning new methodologies for teaching science and refilling their motivational cup. This past year, in collaboration with classroom teachers, we have also developed an online series of interactive science labs that can be used by any elementary teacher interested in enhancing their science curriculum. We feel this is an important role for Loma Linda University — using our talents and commitment to share our skills and reputation with others.

Will it be enough to save a church school system? Not by itself! We need both a horizontal strategy for collaboration among our colleges and universities and a vertical strategy for our elementary and secondary schools. Many on this campus believe the value of Christian education is needed now more than ever. Loma Linda University is determined to do what we can while we can! 

I recently heard a compelling sequence of progressive steps about education for life that is so true:

                        Thoughts → Words → Actions → Habits → Character → Destiny.  

We will keep you informed as new strategies develop. And kudos to those thousands of committed teachers who continue to provide their best for our children, often despite challenging circumstances.  

“Richard

 

 

 

Richard H. Hart

Vision 2020 – The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow

]]>
Wed, 05 Sep 2018 09:47:32 -0700
4264:35365 <![CDATA[Last words — a devotional]]> By Carla Gober-Park 2 Samuel 23:1-7 

In 2016, Dr. Wil Alexander, a patriarch of Loma Linda University Health, lay dying. At 95 years old, this seemed inevitable — but not to him. He had a whole world of expectation for the future, even though his body could no longer keep up with him. Since life had brought him near death several times, he had many “last conversations,” but they were never “last,” nor did he intend them to be. Throughout our time together, he often asked, “Are we done?” It was his obligatory offer to step back, fully expecting that I would respond (as I always did), “No, Wil, not yet.” It gave him permission to do what he was going to do anyway — keep teaching young physicians how to give whole person care until he could no longer make it to work.

But there came a point when that moment arrived.

The night before he died, he and I had a “last conversation.” At the end of it, with eyes more piercing and serious than usual, he asked, “Are we done?” He searched my face for the answer — the real answer. I knew he would not return to work again, so I hesitated.  

Then the answer came to me — the real answer. “Wil, you know what I’m going to say, and you know it is the truth. No, we are not done yet.” He laughed out loud. “I knew you would say that! The Lord will continue to bless, won’t He?”  

David’s last words were similar to Wil’s — expressing a deep knowledge of what God had done and would continue to do because of His “everlasting covenant” (2 Samuel 23:5). 

When the “Rock of Israel” speaks, He means what He says, and that Voice changes everything. And that Voice states that “The one who rules in the fear of God is like the gleaming of the sun on new grass after rain” (verses 3-4, paraphrase).  

Have you ever seen that? It is easier to see at night. One night I awoke suddenly by the sound of rain that had just stopped. Uncharacteristic of California rain, it had come down hard, then suddenly, without tapering, stopped, like a flash of lightning disappeared. The absence of sound startled me, and I wondered at the silence. Jumping out of bed, I ran to the front door and flung it open. 

There was gold everywhere, flowing down the street, like it was the book of Revelation. I gasped. The light from the street lamps was illuminating every drop and trickle of water, giving the whole landscape a gold hue through the reflection. “Can you believe that?!” I said out loud to nobody who was listening. It was 2 a.m. I waited for someone else to come outside their house and see what I was seeing, but the street was empty, except for the gold.

After a long time, and with reluctance, I closed the door again, still looking through the window. Had I imagined it? No, there it was, gold everywhere, still gleaming under the lights from the streetlamps.

Still gleaming.

David’s last words assure us that death is not the end. Last words are simply the announcement of what began long before we were born and continues long after we stop coming to work. It is an “everlasting covenant.” 

The sun continues to gleam on new grass after rain. 

And it is spectacular.

—Carla Gober-Park, PhD, is assistant vice president of Spiritual Life and Mission at Loma Linda University Health.

]]>
Wed, 29 Aug 2018 10:58:50 -0700
4264:35366 <![CDATA[Discovering health policy: new CA ballot measures, opioid-use recovery and more]]> News of the Week presents the August 2018 monthly roundup of resources from the Institute for Health Policy and Leadership at Loma Linda University Health. 

The Institute for Health Policy and Leadership is an active player in analyzing current issues, bills and laws dealing with health; curating coverage of key national news regarding healthcare, public health and science; and assessing implications for Seventh-day Adventist health systems.

August 2018 policy resources 

 

Healthcare News at a Glance weekly briefs

August 29

August 22 

August 15

August 8

August 1

 

Issue at a Glance monthly brief

August 2018: “Telehealth in California

 

Policy at a Glance monthly brief

August 2018: “New State Ballot Measures that Affect Health in the November 2018 General Election

 

Health Policy Connection blog posts

August 28: “Doing Our Part. National Immunization Awareness Month

August 20: “Sugary Beverages: To Tax or Not to Tax? In California, that is the Question

August 7: “Cyberbullying, a Growing Public Health Concern

]]>
Wed, 29 Aug 2018 11:02:30 -0700
4264:35367 <![CDATA[New issue of 'The Compliance Code' now available]]> Loma Linda University Health’s Department of Corporate Compliance has published the summer 2018 issue of The Compliance Code, an original newsletter that features hot-topic articles about corporate compliance. 

The summer edition discusses medical student documentation, ‘Incident-To’ billing, and when to involve the California Department of Public Health in changes to service lines. Read the new issue on One Portal.

]]>
Wed, 29 Aug 2018 11:02:56 -0700
4264:35368 <![CDATA[Closures and re-routings at Taylor Street/Court ]]> Loma Linda University Health is conducting a sewer line replacement under Taylor Court that is expected to last through mid-September. The construction has caused temporary changes to vehicle traffic and shuttle service.

Taylor Court, which runs north to south between Taylor Street and Prospect Avenue, is closed to all vehicle traffic except construction and emergency vehicles. 

As a result, two-way traffic is temporarily allowed on Taylor Street. Temporary road striping, signage and parking restrictions are in place for the duration of the construction.

An additional change is the temporary shifting of the shuttle stop on Prospect Avenue (between Taylor Court and Anderson Street) to the OmniTrans/SBX bus stop at the southwest corner of Prospect Avenue and Anderson Street.

Questions? Email eschilt@llu.edu.

]]>
Wed, 29 Aug 2018 11:03:17 -0700
4264:35369 <![CDATA[API upgrade is now live]]> Loma Linda University Health’s API system upgrade, live as of Aug. 30, brings enhanced functionalities:

Time and attendance enhancements

  • New editor and approver icons
  • Updated supervisor bookmarks
  • New feature: “Supervisor Hours by Pay Code” report
  • Updated employee search screen
  • Updated “transaction list actions” section

Staffing and scheduling enhancements

  • “My Schedule” Report update
  • “My Schedule” card added to home screen
  • Updated scheduler bookmarks
  • Update to “current staffing overview” compare screen
  • Open-shift notifications (broadcasts) update

Full details about the changes to API are available on One Portal. 

]]>
Wed, 29 Aug 2018 11:03:29 -0700
4264:35370 <![CDATA[LLU Medical Center ranks 33rd nationwide for consumer loyalty ]]> Loma Linda University Medical Center was ranked 33rd in the Top 100 for consumer loyalty nationwide and No. 1 in the Inland Empire by National Research Corporation (NRC) Health, recognizing the hospital’s ability to serve and earn the longstanding trust of its patients.  

The ranking was part of NRC Health’s presentation to LLU Medical Center for the 2017-2018 NRC Health Consumer Loyalty Award. Hospitals were selected based on results from NRC Health’s Market Insights survey, the largest database of healthcare consumer responses in the country. 

“These outstanding healthcare organizations are setting a new standard for elevating the entire patient and consumer experience,” said Brian Wynne, vice president and general manager at NRC Health.

Read the full story at news.llu.edu.

 

]]>
Wed, 29 Aug 2018 11:03:42 -0700
4264:35286 <![CDATA[OWL Portal update]]> Loma Linda University Health’s Organization-Wide Learning (OWL) Portal is undergoing technical structure work.

OWL is one of three online destinations for staff training at Loma Linda University Health. The other two are the Continuing Education (CE) Portal and the Online Classroom (Moodle). Comprising all three, the Learning Management System at Loma Linda University Health has undergone a replacement of its core technical design. 

Improvements to Learning Management System 

Users will note major changes in the Learning Management System’s functionality for managing symposia, conferences and other events, such as the annual One Homecoming, the biannual Global Healthcare Conference and more. One conference that is currently utilizing the new capabilities is the 21st Pediatric Critical Care Symposium.

More major changes can also be seen in the now-available new CE Portal. Users who log in will be able to see their education history, certificates of completion, continuing education classes, education schedule and more educational information. 

Learn more

For more information about changes to the Learning Management System, employees may contact the Service Desk at ext. 48889 or Staff Development at ext. 33500.

]]>
Thu, 23 Aug 2018 09:08:25 -0700
4264:35268 <![CDATA['Total Rewards Statement' identifies total compensation, benefits]]> The Department of Human Resource Management has unveiled the Total Rewards Statement for calendar year 2017, allowing employees to view a graphical breakdown of employer-provided compensation and benefits from the prior calendar year. 

The feature, located within PeoplePortal, also allows employees to see benefits to which they contribute, such as health plans and supplemental life insurance. 

The statement has sections for compensation, benefits, retirement and work/life. 

The retirement section of the Total Rewards Statement focuses on the employer basic and matching contributions that an employee may receive. The “employee paid” value represents an employee’s deferral of earnings to a tax-sheltered annuity. 

The work/life section of the statement includes the value of items provided by the employer that the employee may or may not be utilizing such as Drayson Center membership, SmartDollarAllClear IDEmployee Assistance Program, cafeteria and gift shop discounts, and more.  

“We feel our comprehensive compensation and benefit package allows us to attract and retain top talent, and the Total Rewards Statement is a tool that will raise employee awareness regarding the total value of the rewards provided by their employer,” said Lizette Norton, vice president of Human Resource Management.

Although the statement is new to Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta this year, it is the second annual publication for Loma Linda University, LLU Medical Center, LLU Children’s Hospital, LLU Behavioral Medicine Center, LLU Shared Services, LLU Health Care and LLU Health Education Consortium.  

Accessing your statement

Your Total Rewards Statement is now available online through PeoplePortal. The statements are located in the “Employee Self Service” section under “My Total Rewards.”

For more information, view the FAQ and outline of benefits on the PeoplePortal homepage after signing in, or contact Human Resource Management at ext. 14001 or humanresources@llu.edu for questions.

]]>
Wed, 22 Aug 2018 10:16:57 -0700
4264:35285 <![CDATA[You talked, we listened — a survey]]> Over the past few years, Human Resource Management at Loma Linda University Health has created multiple avenues for employees to provide feedback, ideas and recommendations as part of its “You talked, we listened … together we value” initiative.

Through this process, Human Resource Management has implemented several employee suggestions, including enhanced CEU reimbursements, virtual benefit fairs, virtual recognition via “I APP U” and more. 

In addition, to address concerns regarding transferred and dropped phone calls, the Human Resources Service Center was opened. Employees can call onephone number, 909-651-4001, or emailoneemail address — humanresources@llu.edu— to receive answers to their questions. 

To seek feedback about its customer service during the past year, Human Resource Management invites employees to complete this survey by Tuesday, Sept. 11. 

For continued updates and changes based on employee feedback, watch for announcements with the graphic (shown above) stating “You talked, we listened … together we value.”

]]>
Thu, 23 Aug 2018 09:08:15 -0700
4264:35287 <![CDATA[Life's legalities — a free webinar]]> The Living Whole Wellness Program will host a free live-streamed presentation on Wednesday, August 29, from 5:30–6 p.m. about life’s legalities — wills, trusts, advance directives for healthcare, guardianship, conservatorships and powers of attorney.  

Viewers will be able to ask questions and interact live with featured speaker Christian W. Johnston, JD, about the complexity of legalities involved in making important life decisions that will affect those we care about the most. The live presentation will be hosted by Olivia Moses, DrPH, CWHC, director of Corporate Health and Wellness at Loma Linda University Health.

Watch the free livestream at Loma Linda University Health’s Facebook page or at myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole/wellnesslive.

For more information, call 909-651-4007.

Viewers who missed last month’s live broadcast on the well woman exam by Courtney Martin, DO, can view it on demand, along with numerous past presentations, in the Wellness Live archive.

]]>
Thu, 23 Aug 2018 09:08:37 -0700
4264:35288 <![CDATA[Soothing words for itchy ears — a devotional]]> By Terry Swenson 2 Samuel

We hear many things on any given day. Voices that try to tell us how to live our lives. Voices offering surefire, three-step methods that will allow us to achieve anything — wealth, health, beauty, you name it. There are voices of wisdom that teach us hard-earned life lessons and how we can avoid the pitfalls. 

My father was one of those sages in my life. I wish I would have listened to all that he had to share! Fortunately, I listened to many of his wisdoms, and they have helped to form and guide my life. One of those wise nuggets was this: “Life is about making choices, and choices have consequences.”

It is always amazing to me how, when we make a wrong choice, we become frustrated and upset when the natural consequences come to be. How many times do we hearwords of wisdom and truth, yet we refuse to listento what they say? 

We like to hear words that we like. 

As we continue through the book of 2 Samuel and the stories of David and his family, it is readily apparent that they followed a pattern just like ours today. 

In 2 Samuel 15, King David’s son, Absalom, breaks into open rebellion against his father. The root of this trouble goes all the way back to David’s affair with Bathsheba. David’s indiscretions, deceits and act of murder reaped a harvest of turmoil and dysfunction within his family. 

Choices have consequences. David listened to the wrong voice. Because of that, Absalom sews his seeds of rebellion. 

After this, Absalom bought a chariot and horses, and he hired fifty bodyguards to run ahead of him. He got up early every morning and went out to the gate of the city. When people brought a case to the king for judgment, Absalom would ask where in Israel they were from, and they would tell him their tribe. 

“Then Absalom would say, ‘You’ve really got a strong case here! It’s too bad the king doesn’t have anyone to hear it.  I wish I were the judge. Then everyone could bring their cases to me for judgment, and I would give them justice!’

“When people tried to bow before him, Absalom wouldn’t let them. Instead, he took them by the hand and kissed them.  Absalom did this with everyone who came to the king for judgment, and so he stole the hearts of all the people of Israel.” 

-2 Samuel 15:1-5 (New Living Translation)

Absalom knew just the right words that would soothe itching ears. He told the people what they wanted to hear rather than what they needed to hear, and it sounded good to them. Then Absalom schmoozed them, acting like he was one of them. His actions made it seem as if David was distant, removed and only interested in pomp and power. The people listened to what they, and Absalom, wanted to hear. But they didn’t really hear or see what the consequences would be.

Perhaps we shouldn’t be too hard on those itchy-eared people. Haven’t we done the same thing? We curry favor with higher-ups by saying what we think they want to hear, instead of speaking what is true and needed. We act one way with our fellow employees. We say the “right” thing to some, but when they leave the room, we then say the “truth” to others. 

Listening — true listening — is a gift to the speaker of our time, our presence and our engagement. It should also be a gift of the wisdom life experience has given us. It should be a gift of truth, love and caring, just like Jesus did. 

“Life is about making choices, and choices have consequences.” What will you choose to listen to today?

—Terry Swenson, DMin, is director of University Spiritual Care at Loma Linda University. 

]]>
Thu, 23 Aug 2018 09:09:04 -0700
4264:35202 <![CDATA[LLU Medical Center ranked No. 1 in area by U.S. News & World Report]]> Loma Linda University Medical Center has been recognized as a Best Hospital for 2018–2019 by U.S. News & World Report.

Ranked as the No. 1 hospital in the Riverside and San Bernardino metro area, the Medical Center was also recognized as “high performing” in seven other areas.

In addition, the Medical Center was ranked in the top 30 Best Hospitals for Gynecology in the nation. The gynecology department received this ranking for excellence in care and its services working with a significant number of high-risk cases.

More than 4,500 hospitals were considered in the rankings. 

Released earlier this week, the annual rankings are designed to assist patients and their doctors in making informed decisions about where to receive care for challenging health conditions or common elective procedures.

“The U.S. News recognition is a testament to our entire team, who every day live out our mission of ‘Continuing the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ’ through providing the highest quality care to our patients,” said Kerry Heinrich, CEO of Loma Linda University Medical Center. “More importantly, I believe the communities we serve will feel incredible pride in these honors as well. Families across the Inland Empire and from around the world have trusted Loma Linda University Health to be ready when their need is the greatest.”

Read the full story at news.llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 16 Aug 2018 10:25:06 -0700
4264:35201 <![CDATA['Top Workplaces' survey from Inland News Group]]> Loma Linda University Health has been nominated by an employee as an “Inland Empire Top Workplace” for 2018. The annual awards program is presented by the Inland News Group (The Press-Enterprise, The Sun, The Facts and Inland Valley Daily Bulletin).

Employees will be invited to take a survey, conducted by research firm Energage, that measures workplace culture and employee engagement levels. The data will help Loma Linda University Health continue creating the best workplace possible.

The survey will run from Monday, Aug. 20, through Friday, Aug. 31. All full- and part-time employees hired prior to July 27, 2018, should expect to receive a survey invitation from survey@energage.com or support@energage.com. Each employee will receive unique access information that can only be used once. If an employee accidentally deletes the survey email, reminder emails will be sent.

The confidential survey contains 24 questions and will take approximately 5-10 minutes to complete. Employees may complete the survey at home or at work.

Questions? Contact Human Resource Management at Loma Linda University Health.

]]>
Thu, 16 Aug 2018 10:24:19 -0700
4264:35200 <![CDATA[August through October TB test clinic schedule]]> Employee Health Services is offering additional TB test clinics for staff who require an annual tuberculosis clearance. The clinics will take place in Children’s Hospital rooms 1830 and 1832, located across from the Children’s Hospital cafeteria.

Below is the schedule of TB placement and test reads. 

TB placement

Tuesday, Aug. 21

CH 1832

1:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

TB reads

Thursday, Aug. 23

CH 1832

1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

TB placement

Tuesday, Sept. 4

CH 1832

7:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

TB reads

Thursday, Sept. 6

CH 1830

7:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

TB placement

Tuesday, Sept. 25

CH 1832

7:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

TB reads

Thursday, Sept. 27

CH 1832

1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

TB placement

Monday, Oct. 15

CH 1832

7:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.

TB reads

Wednesday, Oct. 17

CH 1830

1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

These dates are available for employees who are within 30 days of their test due date.  

All TB tests that are placed must be read within 48-72 hours, either at the return clinic date or in Employee Health Services. Failure to have the TB test read will necessitate another TB test at the employee’s own expense. 

These clinics are offered in addition to the regular office hours of Employee Health Services. For more information, call Employee Health Services at ext. 88797, option 3. 

]]>
Thu, 16 Aug 2018 10:23:46 -0700
4264:35199 <![CDATA[Office closures for Labor Day]]> Labor Day weekend will be a four-day holiday for many administrative and support offices of Loma Linda University Health.

This means that on Friday, Aug. 31, a number of offices will be closed in addition to the normal Monday holiday on Sept. 3.

This applies to administrative and support offices for Loma Linda University Medical Center (including East Campus and Surgical Hospital), Children’s Hospital, Behavioral Medicine Center and Shared Services.

Impacted services include shuttles and mail pickup and delivery. Shuttles will not run on the Friday before or on Labor Day. They will resume their regular schedule on Tuesday, Sept. 4. However, security officers will still patrol.

Clinical departments will retain their normal holiday schedules and staffing. 

Best wishes for a meaningful and safe holiday weekend from Loma Linda University Health.

]]>
Thu, 16 Aug 2018 10:22:30 -0700
4264:35198 <![CDATA[Breaking the pattern — a devotional]]> By Randy Roberts 2 Samuel 14

In Dennis Guernsey’s book The Family Covenant, he writes of what he calls “transitional people.” According to him, transitional people are those who look at the reality of the intergenerational characteristics of their families, determine where any dysfunctions have been present, and then say, “It stops with me. I will not pass this kind of dysfunction on to the next generation.” Then they take the steps necessary to change. 

It is a courageous and transformative choice to make.

Underlining the importance of such a step, family theorists suggest that if you are able to look at three generations of a family — considering that family’s relationships, conflicts, secrets, addictions and so forth — you will be able to predict where the coming generations of that family are heading.

During my graduate studies in the field of marriage and family therapy, a professor gave us a quarter-long assignment of constructing our family genogram. That assignment led me to have important conversations with my family. It was the kind of exercise that led to the discovery of things I had known and forgotten, and the discovery of things I’d never known. 

It ultimately led to insight followed by change. It brought me face-to-face with the kinds of decisions that a transitional person has to make.

Intergenerational family patterns jump off the page from the words of 2 Samuel 14.

The story of David and Absalom has become rancid. Rape, incest and murder have already elbowed their way into this family’s story. The entanglements and consequences of such have led a father (David) to banish a son (Absalom) from his presence.

Then, in an attempt to once again gain favor with his father the king, Absalom colluded with a friend to lie to King David and set up a scenario through which he could get back into the king’s favor.

That’s just the beginning! In the next chapter, the story reallyturns sour. In the midst of all the grime of their family, one reality grabs me: this family’s unhealthy dynamics are being passed from one generation to the next.

Ultimately, God’s grace is rich and free to that family, just as it is to our families. But the pain that was passed on might have been avoided if someone had said, “It stops with me.”

What about your family? Every family has difficulties, dysfunctions and secrets. Every family passes these on to the next generation — unless there’s a transitional person. 

Will you be that person in your family? 

If your answer is yes, then consider the following steps.

  1. Be very honest in assessing your family’s health.
  2. Be willing to reach out for help. A Christian counselor can be of enormous help.
  3. Be willing to read and learn.
  4. Pray for God’s insight, wisdom, guidance and grace.

You can be a transitional person and help change your family. You can create a healthier future.

—Randy Roberts, DMin, is vice president for spiritual life and mission at Loma Linda University Health.

]]>
Thu, 16 Aug 2018 10:21:11 -0700
4264:35137 <![CDATA[Silence Is Not Always Golden — a devotional]]> By Dilys Brooks 2 Samuel 13

“Silence is golden” is a proverbial statement that communicates the value of quietude over incessant babble. I remember my mother telling me a few other proverbs that communicated clearly that silence was preferable to the never-ending chatter of young children. Is there ever a time when this adage should be upended? Our passage for consideration in our devotional series this week is 2 Samuel 13. It is a difficult chapter to read, understand and accept. Yet it is in our Holy Scriptures. It can’t be avoided or overlooked. 

Last week’s postinvited us to reflect on what happens when we don’t listen to God. David’s misstep with Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah, had a ripple effect that he did not foresee. When we read 2 Samuel 12, we uncover the “care-fronting” conversation that Nathan the prophet had with David about his actions. 

God’s messenger made it very clear to David that his arrangements did not go unnoticed by the God who had anointed him king. Psalm 51 is David’s confession and repentant response. Too often, we behave like David did — thinking and acting on how we feel in response to our short-term wants, desires or anxiety. What we don’t often consider is the ripple effect these actions have on our families, departments, communities, counties, state, country or world.

In 2 Samuel 13, we see one of those undulations in the story of a sister who was assaulted by one of her brothers. Her father who was angry, but he did nothing. Another brother committed murder to avenge his sister. What can we learn from this story as an organization? 

We can see firsthand the consequences of our slip-ups or blunders. 

In the minds of others, it creates the assumption that they too can act on their feelings, desires, fears or convictions without thought of the repercussions. The scriptures tell us that Amnon desired his sister. He plotted with the aid of a cousin how to assault her. After the dastardly deed was done, that same desire was turned to loathing and he rejected her, the object of his desire. 

This is a perfect example of when silence is not golden. 

Like David’s actions with Bathsheba, Amnon’s behavior was no secret. David was angry, yet silent. Absalom, her brother, was angry and silent. Tamar was traumatized and silent. It also appears as if God was also silent. The truth of the matter is God had already told David that his actions had given the enemies of God an opportunity to reject or spurn God’s commandments. 

I wonder what would have happened if David had applied the same principle that God had used with him to his sons? What would have happened if David had comforted his daughter and actually meted out justice on her behalf? David Augsburger coined the term “care-fronting” to describe a method for addressing conflict responsibly.  

David’s failure to respond to injustice bred more injustice. 

Each of us, as employees and students at Loma Linda University Health, has a responsibility to act in ways that exemplify our mission and values. While we are not responsible for everyone’s choices, we do influence each other. May we learn from this difficult story that silence in the face of injustice does not reflect the character of God. May we also learn how to be care-fronting individuals who acknowledge our own propensity to sin when we speak to each other. 

My prayer for each of us this week is simply “Create in us a clean heart, O God, and put a new and right spirit with in us.” Help us to speak up for those who are hurting or to those who have hurt others. 

Amen. 

—Dilys Brooks, MDiv, is campus chaplain for Loma Linda University.

 

]]>
Wed, 08 Aug 2018 19:04:11 -0700
4264:35138 <![CDATA[Children's Hospital towers up]]> The steel columns for the future Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital tower continue to rise after workers set the first ones in place July 30, the latest milestone for the new hospital’s construction. 

Ultimately the new Children’s Hospital tower will be nine stories, next to a 16-story new Medical Center for adults. The two new hospitals will share a common pedestal of five stories.

See the full story at news.llu.edu.

]]>
Wed, 08 Aug 2018 19:04:20 -0700
4264:35139 <![CDATA[Neurosurgeons urge State Assembly to invest in innovative treatments ]]> Loma Linda University Health neurosurgeons told a group of state officials and lawmakers that the impact of treating neurological disorders in the state of California is increasing, and they stressed the imperative need to invest in innovative treatments.

Warren Boling, MD, chair of the Department of Neurosurgery at Loma Linda University Health, and Venkatraman Sadanand, MD, PhD, associate professor at Loma Linda University School of Medicine and attending pediatric neurosurgeon, made their remarks to the California State Assembly on Aug. 7. The two were among 12 presenters at the Brain Mapping Day held at the State Capitol in Sacramento. 

Boling and Sadanand highlighted the economic risks for treating neurological disorders, including epilepsy, Parkinson’s and dementia.  

According to Sadanand, the prevalence of Parkinson’s disease is expected to increase two times over the next 12 years, while dementia is expected to increase three times over the next 30 years. In the last 25 years, a 37 percent increase in the number of deaths has occurred in individuals living with a neurological disease. It’s the highest increase in any group of diseases, Sadanand said. 

According to Boling, there are approximately 140,000 individuals living with intractable epilepsy in the state of California alone. The economic burden of intractable epilepsy in California is $1.2 billion annually, according to CE Begley’s “The Direct Cost of Epilepsy in the United States” (Epilepsia, 2015).

Despite 16 different FDA-approved medications to treat patients with epilepsy, over 30 percent of patients will continue living with frequent seizures, Boling said. The goal is to better define the seizure focus as a way to open more opportunities for a cure. Both physicians urged the State Assembly to analyze the data presented and invest in new treatments.  

Loma Linda University Health representatives have participated in previous Brain Mapping Days on the national level. Boling presented at Brain Mapping Day on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., last year. In March, Sadanand and Daniel J. DiLorenzo, MD, PhD, MBA, assistant professor at LLU School of Medicine, presented at this year’s Brain Mapping Day in Washington, D.C.

]]>
Wed, 08 Aug 2018 19:04:31 -0700
4264:35140 <![CDATA[Security report for 2nd quarter]]> Loma Linda University Health works diligently to provide a safe and secure learning, working and healing environment. As part of ongoing engagement to ensure a safe and well-informed campus, listed below are the crimes reported for Loma Linda University Health during the second quarter (April through June) of 2018. The detailed report is available on One Portal.

LocationsNon-Violent CrimesViolent CrimesVehicle CrimesTrespassingArrests
LLU Medical Center 23 3 4 35 2
LLU Children's Hospital 2 0 0 3 0
Loma Linda University 7 0 9 20 2
Miscellaneous areas 5 2 1 49 2
Mountain View Plaza 3 0 1 10 0
Professional Plaza 0 1 0 0 0
Outpatient Rehab Center 1 0 0 2 0
East Campus 0 0 1 5 0
Faculty Medical Offices 0 0 0 4 0
Behavioral Medicine Center 0 0 1 2 0
Surgical Hospital 0 0 0 2 0
West campus (Club Center Drive/Caroline Street buildings) 1 0 5 15 0
San Bernardino campus 1 0 0 3 0
Beaumont - Banning 0 0 0 0 0
Murrieta 0 1 0 3 0

 

Security tips: campus emergencies

Loma Linda University Health’s Department of Security Services provides these tips to follow in the event of a critical event on campus.

Should you witness or be involved in an event, remember these few simple things to help keep you and others around you safe: 

1)   Remain calm

2)   Get yourself to safety (run or hide).

3)   Follow the appropriate emergency plan, such as Loma Linda University Health’s fire plan: RACE

  • Rescue others if it is safe for you to do so.
  • Alarm: Activate a fire alarm pull station nearest to the fire. Call for help by dialing 911. Help is on the way!
  • Contain: Close doors and windows.
  • Extinguish (if safe to do so)/ Evacuate

4)   Follow instructions from authorities. Your life may depend on it.

5)   Adhere to Loma Linda University Health’s no-photography policy and social media policy by not taking pictures of events or people and by not posting or sharing information on social media sites. Not only could you be violating someone’s privacy, but you could also compromise the safety and tactical response of the emergency first responders.

How to contact Security Services

Loma Linda University Health encourages individuals to report emergencies or suspicious behavior immediately by contacting the Security Control Center at 909-558-4320 or ext. 911 from on-campus phones. You may also use the blue-lighted emergency call boxes located throughout the campus and healthcare facilities. 

For non-emergency business, call 909-558-5419 or ext. 55419 from on-campus phones.

]]>
Wed, 08 Aug 2018 19:04:43 -0700
4264:35100 <![CDATA[Notes from the President — Transforming a vision into reality]]> By Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   August 2018
Transforming a vision into reality

“Richard-Hart-2017“

Last year we celebrated the golden 50th anniversary of our iconic hospital towers by remembering the challenges we faced back then and how we overcame them with God’s blessing. Necessitating the need for a new hospital at that time was a push from the Council on Medical Education of the American Medical Association and the Executive Council of the Association of American Medical Colleges requiring all medical schools to consolidate classroom and clinical teaching facilities into a single location. A few years later, we met the requirement.

I remember well that day in 1967 when I joined so many others to carefully move patients from the old Nichol Hall hospital to our new beautiful clover leaf building. I’m now struck by the parallels of that moment in our history and where we are today. 

We are now five years into the Vision 2020 campaign and the associated goal of creating One Loma Linda with our updated name — Loma Linda University Health — and our integrated organizational structure. This entire strategy was designed to enable us to effectively meet the challenges of the future. Necessitating the need for this was a California state mandate to build a new hospital that met and exceeded California’s newest seismic standards. That construction began nearly two years ago and is well underway, with the steel infrastructure now starting to give shape to the common pedestal and the two towers. Construction is running on schedule, and you can expect to see the steel frame of all 16 stories of the new Medical Center and all nine stories of the new Children’s Hospital in place by the end of the year. 

Moving-day-1967

Our “One Loma Linda” strategy has performed beyond our expectations. It has brought renewed collaboration between our physicians and hospitals and opened up enhanced educational opportunities for our students. While the university enrollment has dipped down a bit the last four years, following national trends, this autumn shows promise of bouncing back strongly. Additionally, our hospital network and Faculty Medical Group have each had their strongest financial year ever, with continued growth in both capacity and revenue. Sometimes expansion can happen too fast, and now with around 16,000 employees altogether, we have asked each campus entity to limit their expenses so we remain both lean and strong.

Vision 2020 began with a transformative gift of $100 million from Dennis and Carol Troesh. Our total philanthropy goal has actually expanded twice since then from the original $350 million — first with a $10 million gift from the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians for our San Bernardino campus, and more recently with a nearly completely raised $6 million for our Indio clinic. Numerous other gifts and pledges, both large and small, have now carried the campaign to nearly $300 million of our revised $366 million goal. 

But philanthropy was only part of the financial plans for the new hospital, as well as the other projects outlined in Vision 2020, which include scholarships, a research building, and wholeness strategies. The entire hospital building project — including the three new parking structures recently built — will reach a total of around $1.4 billion. The resources for this amount were carefully calculated to come from four main sources — bond financing, two state grants to pay a portion of costs of construction of children’s hospitals, philanthropy and operating gains from our hospitals.  

Each of those strategies has performed well to date, with the exception of disbursements of the children’s hospital grant funds. We continue to believe that we are entitled to the full grant amounts, but the state has delayed disbursements. There have also been some cost overruns on additional steel now being required by the state since the original plan was developed. Fortunately, all our steel has been paid for before the recent steel tariffs were implemented, so that isn’t hurting us. But with the extra steel required and the uncertain timing of receiving the state grant monies, we have decided to take out another bond offering to assure completion of the building on time. This new borrowing will ease the pressure on cash flow by financing the costs of the extra steel and by covering certain routine capital purchases that historically have been budgeted and funded out of operations. 

The building completion is now scheduled for the fall of 2020, with actual occupancy in early 2021. This is a bit past the state statutory deadline of Dec. 31, 2019, but we believe the deadline will be further extended by legislation that is currently pending before the California State Legislature.

To have come so far along in our philanthropy goals is truly amazing and we are deeply grateful to our many donors for making this happen. Our hope now is to far exceed our original goals and maintain the momentum that has been generated so we can better fulfill our mission through clinical care, education, research, and wholeness. A Wholeness Institute will focus and share our traditional commitment to improving health practices, and a new research building is still greatly needed to let us expand our growing network of investigators. These will complement the Comprehensive Cancer Center we are planning. 

In this context, I frequently get asked if I am worried, confident or scared. The answer is probably some combination of all of those. I often step outside my office at Magan Hall to the Founders Plaza and read again the story of Loma Linda University Health’s beginning. I am sure that our founder John Burden and his colleagues had many of the same concerns we do now. But the overpowering sentiment in my heart and on our campus is that this is a special place, endowed for a purpose by God Himself. That assurance is enough to keep us focused and moving forward. Thank you for your confidence in Loma Linda University Health. We invite you to watch the construction live at lluhvision2020.org and prepare to join us for a grand opening in the future! 


“Richard

 

 

 

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

“Steel-construction”

Office of the President, Loma Linda University Health

Copyright © 2018

]]>
Thu, 02 Aug 2018 10:10:00 -0700
4264:35102 <![CDATA['Thank you' for quick action by employees during power reduction]]> Employees on duty this past Saturday night at Loma Linda University Medical Center and LLU Children’s Hospital faced the challenge of operating at minimal power for approximately three hours, beginning around 5:30 p.m. 

The incident began when utility provider Southern California Edison was unable to supply power. While the outage with Southern California Edison only lasted four minutes, it shut down operations at the Central Utilities Plant. The main breaker was not re-engaging, which would not allow power to flow to the campus. Both hospitals activated emergency generators, which supplied minimum lighting, five working elevators out of 21, and power for necessary medical equipment. Emergency power was directed to all outlets required for lifesaving medical equipment, such as ventilators, medical air compressors, medication dispensers as well as emergency egress lighting and fire alarm systems. Power service was restored at approximately 8:40 p.m.

Hospital administration would like to thank the teams that went into immediate action to fix the problems experienced when the outage occurred, as well as those of you who worked hard to provide excellent patient care. There were undoubtedly frustrations and inconveniences during this time, but special thanks goes to each of you for your team effort and commitment to excellence. Thank you again for putting our patients first, and for living our mission, even in unique circumstances.

]]>
Thu, 02 Aug 2018 10:10:26 -0700
4264:35103 <![CDATA[Outpatient treatment added at Behavioral Medicine Center]]> Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center launched an outpatient therapy program on Aug. 1, adding another layer of service to the center’s mission to provide behavioral health and substance use care. The program’s offices are located in the Behavioral Health Institute building, 1686 Barton Road, across the street from the main Behavioral Medicine Center facility. 

The Behavioral Medicine Center currently offers inpatient treatment, partial hospitalization (PHP) step down services, and intensive outpatient (IOP) services for children, teens and adults. The current PHP and IOP programs offer therapy in group settings, meeting for several hours per day, multiple days per week. 

Mental health outpatient services have been provided by Loma Linda University School of Medicine’s Department of Psychiatry; however, the addition of the Behavioral Medicine Center’s new outpatient therapy program will add additional capacity to serve this growing patient population. 

“Our Behavioral Medicine Center outpatient services program will offer a safety net for patients who are stable, but still need some support,” said Dragana Pitargue, LCSW, MBA, director of outpatient services for the Behavioral Medicine Center. Sessions will occur on a weekly or biweekly schedule, providing mental health care for people who do not require hospitalization. Individual therapy, couples and family therapy, and support groups will be offered.

“We know there is strong community interest in this type of mental health service,” said Edward Field, MBA, Behavioral Medicine Center vice president/administrator. “Every member of the outpatient services team looks forward to making a significant difference in the lives of the patients they will see.” Field added that while many people find it easier to talk about heart disease or cancer, treating mental illness is a key component of healthcare Loma Linda University Health makes available to the public.

The outpatient therapy services will also offer a number of programs to meet the unique needs of children and teens who are struggling with emotional challenges. This includes attention deficit disorder, anxiety, depression, anger management, alcohol and substance use, as well as obsessive-compulsive disorder.

An initial assessment visit will allow the therapist to determine if a patient needs psychotherapy, medications or both. Continuing therapy will seek to address underlying issues that are causing a person’s mental health issue and teach coping skills that will lead to emotional wellness. The Department of Psychiatry, also headquartered in the Behavioral Health Institute building, will partner with Behavioral Medicine Center's outpatient program to prescribe and monitor needed medications.

According to Pitargue, there remains some social stigma to suffering from mental health issues, which may keep a person from acknowledging the problem or seeking treatment. 

“Someone may say ‘snap out of it’ to a person dealing with a mental health problem,” Pitargue said. “We would never say that to a cancer patient. I see courage and strength in a person who comes in to get help. Stigma is a cultural myth.”

For more information about the Behavioral Medicine Center’s outpatient therapy services, contact 909-558-9500.

]]>
Thu, 02 Aug 2018 10:10:39 -0700
4264:35101 <![CDATA[Entitlement — a devotional]]> By Kathy McMillan I have three stories to tell. Listen carefully.

There were two faculty members in a university. One was experienced, the other just out of graduate school. The experienced professor had taught many classes on campus and was well-versed in a variety of topics in her field. The new instructor was assigned a class and worked for weeks doing research, preparing the lectures and finding creative ways to teach the material. The quarter went splendidly. The students loved the class and gave it high reviews. But when the next year’s academic calendar was being prepared, the experienced professor asked to teach the course that the new teacher had developed, causing the new teacher to be assigned to a different course.

There were two respiratory therapists. One was at the peak of his career; his professional life was thriving. He was charismatic, efficient and told animated stories, much to the delight of his colleagues. The other therapist was quiet and thoughtful. She was a little unsure of herself and was struggling with family and health issues. Each day required determined effort to choose a positive attitude and serve her patients with compassion. She worked with integrity and was loved by all the staff on the three units where she was assigned. She developed personal relationships with the team and truly connected with them and her patients. But the charismatic therapist, looking on, couldn’t help but feel a little jealous of how she was loved. He thought that perhaps if he worked on those units, he too would experience the kinds of deep connections she had. So because he had seniority, he requested to be transferred to the pediatric areas, causing her to be transferred. 

There were two men in a certain town. One was rich, and one was poor. The rich man owned a great many sheep and cattle. The poor man owned nothing but one little lamb he had bought. He raised that little lamb, and it grew up with his children. It ate from the man’s own plate and drank from his cup. He cuddled it in his arms like a baby daughter. One day a guest arrived at the home of the rich man. But instead of killing an animal from his own flock or herd, he took the poor man’s lamb and killed it and prepared it for his guest. – 2 Samuel 12:1-4, New International Version

Sometimes, while protecting ourselves, we end up hurting other people. We don’t do it intentionally, but our instinctual desire to look out for ourselves blinds us to the way we affect others.  

What do you hear as you read these stories? Might there be another version of this parable that God wishes you to hear? 

How would you finish the story? “There were. . .”

—Kathy McMillan is director of Employee Spiritual Care at Loma Linda University Medical Center.

]]>
Thu, 02 Aug 2018 10:10:15 -0700
4264:35039 <![CDATA[If I Had Only Listened]]> By Terry Swenson Summer days were long and full of fun and adventure for young boys like me. Every day after I finished my chores, I was free to roam and play with my neighborhood friends. We would only return home for meals and when the street lights came on in the evening. On occasion, we were allowed to ride our bikes to the store and get candy with our allowance or money we earned. It was always amazing to see all of those delicious sweets, and even more amazing were to eat. One day before going to go to the store, I went to get money out of my piggy bank. It was empty. Searching my pockets and drawers didn't turn up any coins either. What was I going to do?

As I walked out of my room, I passed the door to my parent’s bedroom. That’s when I saw it. The answer to my problem: a dollar bill on my mother’s nightstand. But an inner voice told me not to take it. It wasn’t my money. It would be stealing. Did I listen? No. I looked around, ran in and grabbed it. Then I rode away for my good times and delicious treat. When I bit into my favorite candy bar, it didn’t taste as it should. In fact, my adventure was far from satisfying. I felt ashamed. I felt remorse. If I had only listened to that voice, how much better would I have felt?

King David was in a time of his glory. With Goliath and the Philistines subdued and Saul dead, David ruled Israel. Things were going great! But as we read the first verse of 2 Samuel 11, David is entering a dangerous territory:

“In the spring of the year, when kings normally go out to war, David sent Joab and the Israelite army to fight the Ammonites. They destroyed the Ammonite army and laid siege to the city of Rabbah. However, David stayed behind in Jerusalem.”

If a nation was going to launch a military campaign, they did it in spring when the conditions were best for logistics. That’s when kings went to war. That’s when kings led their armies. David launches a military strike on the Ammonite city of Rabbah, but he “stayed behind in Jerusalem.” David didn’t listen to God. David sent his general Joab to mop things up. In fact, this chapter in 2 Samuel reveals that David had decided to kick back, relax and enjoy, saying "late one afternoon, after his midday rest, David got out of bed and was walking on the roof of the palace. As he looked out over the city, he noticed a woman of unusual beauty taking a bath.”

David is napping late in the day. He takes a leisurely stroll on the palace roof — the tallest building in the city — and starts looking around. David didn’t listen to the rules of decency. He knew that was the time of day that women would go on their roofs for privacy to bathe. David sees Bathsheba. David lusts. David listens to his desires over his conscience. David takes. Bathsheba gets pregnant. David tries to cover up his sin by bringing Uriah — Bathsheba's husband — home from battle, where David should have been. He hoped Uriah would sleep with his wife, setting David free of his sin. But Uriah wouldn’t. Uriah listened to God and his conscience, so David had him killed.

David eventually repented of his wrong. God forgave him, but for the rest of David’s reign, this misdeed haunted his family and his kingdom.

Whether in David’s life or ours, God speaks to us. It’s up to us to listen. Pray that as you serve others, as you interact with your colleagues and live your life, that you will both hear God’s whispers and live them out in your lives. 

—Terry Swenson, DMin, is director of University Spiritual Care.

 

]]>
Thu, 26 Jul 2018 11:24:31 -0700
4264:35042 <![CDATA[Discover policy related to substance use-disorder, opioid dependence]]> News of the Week is beginning a series of periodic updates about resources produced by the Institute for Health Policy and Leadership at Loma Linda University Health. 

The Institute for Health Policy and Leadership is an active player in analyzing current issues, bills and laws dealing with health; curating coverage of key national news regarding healthcare, public health and science; and assessing implications for Seventh-day Adventist health systems.

July’s policy resources 

Healthcare News at a Glance

·         July 25 issue

·         July 18 issue

·         July 11 issue

·         July 5 issue

July issue brief: “Maternal Mortality in the United States

July policy brief: “The Substance Use-Disorder Prevention that Promotes Opioid Recovery and Treatment (SUPPORT) for Patients and Communities Act (H.R. 6)”  

July blog posts — Health Policy Connection

·         To Separate an Opioid Dependent Baby from Its Mother or Not To Separate? 

·         Social Media: the Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

]]>
Thu, 26 Jul 2018 11:27:04 -0700
4264:35043 <![CDATA[World Affairs Council to host event examining social media persuasion in Middle East]]> Loma Linda University Health is co-sponsoring the August 29 World Affairs Council Inland Southern California event “Fighting for Cyber Supremacy in an Age of Extremism” on August 29. 

The event will be held at 5:30 p.m., Wednesday, August 29, in room 3111 at the Centennial Complex, 24760 Stewart St., Loma Linda.

Haroon K. Ullah, PhD, a social media authority in the Mideast, will present how social media has dominated the discourse of recent events in the Muslim world — from the “Arab Spring” to ISIS’s online recruitment. He will discuss the roles of social media in these events and will identify key trends across the Muslim world that can teach us about regional and international politics and diplomacy.

A former senior advisor to three U.S. Secretaries of State, with a special portfolio on digital transmedia strategy and countering violent extremism, Ullah is an award-winning author, a Peabody TV Award recipient, an adjunct professor at Georgetown University, and a term member of the Council on Foreign Relations. 

Program and admission

The event includes both a reception and presentation. Admission to both is free for students with ID. The cost is $20 for World Affairs Council members who preregister and $25 for non-members who preregister. 

The general admission door price will be $30, space permitting. 

Register or learn more, or call 909-558-7446, or email kyutuc@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 26 Jul 2018 11:27:57 -0700
4264:35044 <![CDATA[18th Annual Health Disparities Research Symposium set for August 1]]> By Kristen Hwang  The Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine’s annual research symposium will take place on Wednesday, August 1 from noon to 7:30 p.m. in Wong Kerlee International Conference Center. The symposium will highlight research conducted by students during a poster session from 2:30 – 5:30 p.m.

Keynote speaker Edwin I. Hernández, PhD, president and CEO of Adventist University of Health Sciences, will speak from 5:30 – 7 p.m. on "Moral Communities as Health Havens: The Role of Religion in Modulating the Impact of Health Disparities." After earning his Bachelor of Arts degree in Theology from Loma Linda University, Dr. Hernández earned his Master of Divinity (MDiv) at the Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary at Andrews University. He also holds a PhD in Sociology from the University of Notre Dame, with a specialty in the Sociology of Religion.

]]>
Thu, 26 Jul 2018 11:28:42 -0700
4264:35045 <![CDATA[A message from the CEO: Construction update]]> Janelle Ringer A message from Medical Center Chief Executive Officer Kerry Heinrich, JD

We’ve talked about, planned for, and prayed over the idea of a new Loma Linda University Medical Center for some time now. In some ways, it seemed so far off. But we have reached some very exciting milestones as a team during the past few weeks, and I want to share them with you.

On July 16, the first vertical steel beams for the new Adult Tower were secured into place. That morning was one that I have dreamed about for years. Some of you have commented that there has been a break in crane operations recently. This break was scheduled into our construction plan and allowed the work crew to safely perform the thousands of critical welds necessary to secure the podium portion of the building.

Our hospital construction site will begin looking very different over the next few months. As we move into August, you will start seeing the steel scaffolding for both the Adult Hospital and the Children’s Hospital Tower begin rapid ascents. By the end of the year, the full frame of the building should be in place. Loma Linda’s new skyline will be a reality.

Our project is on schedule. The reality of a new hospital has always seemed like a dream. Those vertical steel beams rising to the sky prove we’ll have a new hospital sooner than we think. We don’t just have a super-sized hole in the ground anymore. There’s a steel superstructure rising into the sky. I hope you’re excited about what you see. There are some great photos of our recent progress here. I have asked our communication department to make a priority of posting frequent construction updates on our LLUH News website, so please check there for bi-monthly updates and photos on the project.

Finally, a special thank you from the bottom of my heart to each of you. The last few years have been a continuous journey of improvement. I am proud to report that each of you has contributed to our successfully reaching our financial, quality and performance improvement targets. Our focused commitment to these items continues, but I want to take a moment to just say thank you. Our performance plays a key role in how we are able to position ourselves as we continue with our building project. Every day, every week we all have learned how to do things smarter and better. And I am the one who has the privilege to report on your amazing work and commitment to those improvements to our stakeholders. 

It is because of your efforts that we are where we are with this project, and I am so honored to represent all of you. 

Recently I had a family member need care here, and during that time I was able to watch what happens here from the perspective of a family member. I was so impressed with the personal touch with which our health care is delivered. Thank you to each one of you for what you do to make this place work every day.

]]>
Thu, 26 Jul 2018 11:29:26 -0700
4264:34995 <![CDATA[Loma Linda University — a 'Great College to Work For']]> Loma Linda University has been honored as a 2018 “Great College to Work For” by the Chronicle of Higher Education, a leading trade publication for colleges and universities, in partnership with Modern Think. 

The results were released on July 16 in The Chronicle of Higher Education’s 11th Annual Report on The Academic Workplace and are based on a survey of more than 50,000 people from 253 academic institutions. Of that number, 84 institutions made the list as one of the “Great Colleges to Work For.” 

Loma Linda University won honors in seven of the 12 recognition categories.

Read the full story at news.llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 19 Jul 2018 08:36:45 -0700
4264:34993 <![CDATA[MyChart helps patients take charge of their health]]> MyChart, the medical record portal for patients at Loma Linda University Health, puts your health at your fingertips. Available both via web and mobile app, MyChart helps patients take charge of their health. 

The ease and convenience of accessing health resources on the go allows patients to:

            • Manage appointments.
            • Use the waitlistto get notification of earlier appointments.
            • Communicatewith providers
            • View test results
            • 
Requestprescription refills
            • Pay 
online
            • Check in online (where available)

To get started, request your secure activation code by calling 877-558-0090 or by following the directions on your after-visit summary. 

Learn more on the MyChart webpage.

]]>
Thu, 19 Jul 2018 08:36:11 -0700
4264:34994 <![CDATA[Celebration of music and health slated for Redlands Bowl on July 31]]> Loma Linda University Health will join with the community for “Harmony of Wellness,” an evening celebrating the connection between music and health, on Tuesday, July 31, at 8 p.m. as part of the Redlands Bowl Summer Music Festival.

Brass Transit, a tribute band to the music of iconic pop/rock group Chicago, will provide the evening entertainment. 

Learn more

Harmony of Wellness at the Redlands Bowl

]]>
Thu, 19 Jul 2018 08:36:26 -0700
4264:34992 <![CDATA[August TB test clinic announced]]> Employee Health Services is offering another TB test clinic for staff who require an annual tuberculosis clearance.The clinic will take place in Children’s Hospital room 1832. 

The TB test placements will be offered Tuesday, Aug. 21, from 1:30–4:30 p.m., and test reading will take place Thursday, Aug. 23, from 1:30–3:30 p.m. Employees must bring their badge. 

These dates are available for employees who are within 30 days of their test due date.  

All TB tests that are placed must be read within 48-72 hours, either at the Aug. 23 return clinic date or in Employee Health Services. Failure to have the TB test read will necessitate another TB test at the employee’s own expense.

This clinic is offered in addition to the regular office hours of Employee Health Services. For more information, call Employee Health Services at ext. 88797, option 3. 

]]>
Thu, 19 Jul 2018 08:35:56 -0700
4264:34991 <![CDATA[The history behind every wound — a devotional]]> 2 Samuel 10

A fake apology is offensive, manipulative and unkind. Why would someone take advantage of another’s vulnerability? 

But what if it seems fake when it isn’t?

A middle-aged woman wearing a bright green dress stands on the sidewalk. A square white 1970s purse hangs over her left arm, and a small hat sits tilted on her head. She seems oddly dressed up as she waits for the bus. It is Sunday. Perhaps she is going to church. A white slip hangs one inch below the hem of her dress in the back where she can’t see it. She probably isn’t aware of it and would be embarrassed to walk around all day like that. “Ma’am, excuse me, your slip is showing. I thought you would want to know.” She glares back, fire in her eyes. “I’m so sorry!” I manage, as she swings the white purse. It hits me on the back, leaving me more stunned than hurt. 

I reallywas sorry. But it didn’t matter. I had invaded her space and she didn’t like it. Felt threatened by it. She was paranoid schizophrenic. There were reasons she was afraid. But between being struck by her purse and discovering her diagnosis, I was completely dazed. What had I done wrong?

Sometimes it is not this clear. We reach out to someone in grief and, after struggling for the ”right” words, we say something, anything. The person in grief turns away and we wonder, “Did I say the right thing? Did I inadvertently cause pain? Am I misunderstood?”

Misunderstandings are common in times of stress, whether between individuals or groups. Even nations become allies or enemies over “small” misunderstandings — the U.S. and Great Britain conflict over a slaughtered hog (the Pig War of 1859), or the Greek and Bulgarian conflict in 1925, triggered by a Greek man shot while chasing his runaway dog over the Bulgarian border.

In 2 Samuel 10, there is a misunderstanding between leaders of two kingdoms. Nahash, King of the Ammonites, has just died. While alive, King Nahash had shown much kindness to David during a time when he was running from Saul. Now King David wants to return that kindness by honoring the news of Nahash’s death, showing sympathy to the son, Hanun. But Hanun can’t afford to trust David, or believe that his motives are pure. To his detriment, he concludes that David’s messengers are spying to overthrow the kingdom. 

The rest of the story is bloody and R-rated.

Sometimes an apology, no matter how sincere, is not, or cannot, be accepted. The fallout can get complicated. Everything we do, no matter the motive, has a consequence. Sometimes it is not the one we expect. An apology can unveil secrets, hurt other people, create a wound that lasts a lifetime or even hurt the one apologizing. An apology is not the quick fix that we sometimes want it to be. Behind every wound is a history, and within every history there are unknowns.

A woman struggling with paranoia and schizophrenia had managed to create for herself a safe space while waiting for the bus. I unknowingly shattered that. A simple “I’m so sorry” is not going to fix it.

—Carla Gober-Park, PhD, is assistant vice president for Spiritual Life and Mission at Loma Linda University Health, as well as director of the Center for Spiritual Life and Wholeness.

 

]]>
Thu, 19 Jul 2018 08:35:31 -0700
4264:34955 <![CDATA[Quality of resuscitation care for inpatient cardiac arrests recognized by American Heart Association]]> Loma Linda University Medical Center and LLU Children’s Hospital have received four 2018 Silver Awards from the “Get With The Guidelines – Resuscitation” program at the American Heart Association.

More than 200,000 adults and children have an in-hospital cardiac arrest each year, according to the American Heart Association.

Read the full story at news.llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 12 Jul 2018 12:00:51 -0700
4264:34954 <![CDATA[Notes from the President — Thoughts from the road]]> By Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   July 2018
Thoughts from the road

“Richard

Reflecting on what’s going on in the world and here at home

As I write, I am in transit from Angola, where I have spent a week with a large group of students and colleagues on a challenging mission trip, and now on to Trinidad, to speak at the graduation events for the University of the Southern Caribbean. I have just finished presidential historian Jon Meacham’s new book The Soul of America, in which he chronicles the periodic challenges throughout our national history along with what Abraham Lincoln called “the better angels of our nature.” Even as I pick up occasional news in foreign hotels, it seems the polarizing events of our times continue unabated. From the fate of migrants, whether in Europe or America, to frustrating racial and cultural divides, to brutal civil wars bringing economic challenges and grinding poverty, the news cycles are unendingly similar.

It seems that the new order of the day is “disruption,” often fed by “identity politics,” all designed to pull us apart. The stability of the past is now viewed as a liability, not a foundation. It is into this world that our millennials are asked to navigate their futures.  And it is expected to get even more problematic as artificial intelligence and the digital revolution continue their steady advance, seemingly almost on autopilot, seeking their own ends. Where is the North Star for our young professionals graduating today, their anchor for what is right and good?

Paul Polman, CEO of Unilever, the Anglo-Dutch consumer goods giant, asks it this way: “Who are the leaders who are going to be successful tomorrow?” They are “the leaders who don’t work for their own interest, but work for the common good; the leaders who can have a longer term vision; the leaders who are driven by a deeper purpose so that they can take some more risks in doing so. So those are the ones that we need to nurture.” Are we doing that effectively enough?

We have just celebrated another 4th of July, commemorating America’s great contribution to the world as a self-proclaimed bastion of equality, justice and commitment to the rights of all humans. It is in this context that we must motivate and prepare this next generation of leaders, encouraging them to understand, discern and commit to their own “better angels.” Are we falsely living a dream, a mirage of hope that will never arrive? Or is it possible to make a difference, even in the lives of a few, in one corner of the earth — one community, one family, one child?

Please pardon my frustration as I watch bureaucracies, ostentatious officials and cumbersome regulations prevent what is right and good in many countries. Part of me does want disruption, but for noble reasons, not personal or political gain. An old African saying — “When the elephants fight, it’s the grass that suffers” — has never seemed more self-evident. I’m hoping that we can be better angels and that whatever we do will be disruptive for noble reasons.

Now that I have vented, let me turn to some updates on the home front.

We don’t talk often enough about those who keep our lives balanced and focused — particularly our spouses. We have recently lost several who played a large part in our university family through the years. Patti Shryock Wallace, Carlton’s wife, who proudly wore a campus name of renown; Carolyn Thompson, standing by her surgeon husband Ralph during the early days of this organization’s clinical consolidation and a woman of influence in her own right; Patty Hansen, the wife of our longtime legal counsel, Kent; and Clara Rock, Oakwood University’s first archivist — her husband Calvin served us so well as our board chair during the 1990s. I had the privilege of knowing each of them personally and can vouch for the critical role they often played in the lives of individuals central to this institution. They are the ones who tolerate our long hours, frequent absences and hearing our burdens of the day. My condolences to these families and appreciation to spouses who carry this unsung role so faithfully for so many years, including my own wife, Judy.

Lastly, I would like to let you know of a major change in our SAC Health System. Since shortly after SAC’s moving into the Norton Air Force Base clinic in 1995, Nancy Young has been our administrator. She has led SAC through many changes, including obtaining Federally Qualified Health Center status, moving into the new Loma Linda University Health – San Bernardino campus building, and growing the entire enterprise by many fold. Her transition on June 30 is the end of an era, and she will be missed. Her passion and guidance were essential through those years to create the kind of programs and people that make the SAC Health System so special, and provided the model of compassion and service so crucial for our students to learn today. 

Thank you to each of you who make Loma Linda University Health a place of compassion and service.

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
“Richard

 

 

 

President
Loma Linda University Health

Vision 2020 – The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow

]]>
Thu, 12 Jul 2018 12:00:04 -0700
4264:34953 <![CDATA[From inflight movie to real-life hero: new grad saves life over Atlantic Ocean]]> Finding something to do on an airplane has a new meaning for Dean LaBarba, MD. While traveling in June from Zurich to Los Angeles on a 12-hour flight, he ended up saving the life of a fellow passenger after she abruptly collapsed. 

The new 2018 graduate from LLU School of Medicine was returning home with his wife, Ivy, after a celebratory trip to Sicily.

Approximately two hours into the Swiss International Airlines flight, LaBarba was watching a movie when a nearby female passenger lost consciousness.

It didn’t take more than seconds for LaBarba to put on his new MD hat and leap into action. He could find no pulse, and her body was cold to the touch. …

Read the full heroic tale at news.llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 12 Jul 2018 11:59:15 -0700
4264:34952 <![CDATA[Introducing: Speakers Bureau and Community Conversations]]> Loma Linda University Health announces its new Speakers Bureau and Community Conversations series as a way to share the organization’s expertise in living a life of wholeness, health and well-being.

Learn more in the words of President Richard Hart, MD, DrPH:

The vital role that Loma Linda University Health plays in the health and well-being of the inhabitants of the Inland Empire is indisputable. Rather than seeing this as an issue of pride, we view it much more with a sense of responsibility. We constantly ask ourselves what we can do that we are not doing to move the dial of vitality upward for ourselves and for those within our reach.

We acknowledge that our hospitals and clinics are a refuge for those facing critical moments in their health journey, whether it be the birth of a child or the discovery of a serious illness. But we must be more than a refuge in the eyes of our community. We must be seen as a resource for those who want to live their best life. 

The most valuable assets that we have are not restricted to the classrooms, office buildings or surgical suites that our campuses comprise. The dedicated, mission-driven professionals who provide the human touch that the faithful understand as the healing hand of Christ and those who give voice to the teaching ministry referenced in our mission statement are always seeking new avenues of expression. 

It is with the desire in mind — to become a resource for our community — that we are launching the Loma Linda University Health Speakers Bureau. The Speakers Bureau will promote and deploy our expertise in wholeness, health and well-being. The Speakers Bureau will be a resource to individuals, groups and organizations who want to understand the science of vitality and learn techniques for personal and corporate change.

Ambassadors of wholeness

Through the Speakers Bureau we will go into the community to serve as ambassadors of wholeness and vitality. The Speakers Bureau will promote our researchers and clinicians to media outlets as resources on a wide range of areas with which we have expertise. The Speakers Bureau will also host events that offer the unique perspective that grows out of a worldview where faith, science, healing and the arts are complementary disciplines, each reflecting ways to understand our Creator.

The first event in our on-campus series Community Conversations will take up the topic of depression and suicide. While the nation continues to discuss the dramatic increase in suicide rates in recent years, brought to light after several celebrity deaths, we want to bring together our behavioral health experts and our community to talk about what often goes unspoken until it is too late.

We will look at this important public health issue from many perspectives, including the perspectives of those who attempt, those who treat and those who survive loved ones lost by suicide.

You are invited to join us in this inaugural event of what will become a regular series on wide-ranging topics — each offering insight, inspiration and meaning. You will certainly be enriched by joining us.

Sincerely,

Richard Hart

Stay tuned to News of the Week and other campus communications to learn about future Community Conversations and activities of the Speakers Bureau.

]]>
Thu, 12 Jul 2018 11:58:33 -0700
4264:34951 <![CDATA[Suicide awareness is topic of first Community Conversation]]> Loma Linda University Health will highlight mental illness and suicide in its inaugural Community Conversation, bringing together researchers, therapists, clergy, family and friends for an open panel discussion.

This free event will be held on July 24 at 5:30 p.m. in the Damazo Amphitheater of the Centennial Complex, 24760 Stewart St., Loma Linda, CA 92354.

Admission is free; seating is limited. Register and learn more at the Community Conversations website.

This event is the first of Loma Linda University Health’s new Community Conversations series, an initiative of the organization’s Speakers Bureau.

Learn more

lluh.org/talks

]]>
Thu, 12 Jul 2018 11:57:49 -0700
4264:34950 <![CDATA[An emotional reuniting of kidney recipients and donors in historic transplant chain ]]> The Transplant Institute recently held a ceremony bringing together the members of the longest paired-donation kidney organ exchange ever performed entirely in-house at Loma Linda University Health.

The four organ donors and four recipients shared their stories and offered their thanks to each other and the transplant team during the June 29 reunion. The members of the donation chain sat in a row of eight chairs.

At far left: Tracy Newton, who signed up to donate a kidney altruistically, without personally knowing anyone who needed one.

At far right:  Maria Gomez, who needed a kidney but didn’t know anyone able to donate.

In between: Thya Broadway, who wanted to donate to her sister, Asia Khem; Melody Save, who wanted to donate to her mother, Josephine Save; and Luis Jara, who wanted to donate to his son, Mauricio Reyes Valdes.

Sisters Thya and Asia were not compatibly matched. Neither were mother Josephine and daughter Melody. This is where the hopeful work of transplant coordinators begins to create a chain of swapped donation pairs through which everyone’s life is saved.

Father and son Mauricio were a match. So why did they participate in the swap? To help others.

Stories from the donation chain

Over two days of surgeries April 23 and 24, Tracy Newton donated her kidney to Asia Khem, whose sister Thya Broadway donated her kidney to Mauricio Reyes Valdes, whose father Luis Jara donated his kidney to Josephine Save, whose daughter Melody Save donated her kidney to Maria Gomez.

Several news organizations broadcasted stories filmed at the reunion. Click to check out a few of the clips: 

            ABC 7 Eyewitness News: “Eight-person kidney exchange”

            KESQ-TV: “Sherriff deputy’s altruistic kidney donation helps many” 

            NBC 4 News: “Kidney Donors are Reunited with Their Recipients”

                                                                                             

]]>
Thu, 12 Jul 2018 11:56:42 -0700
4264:34949 <![CDATA[Kindness, Even When ... a devotional]]> By Carl Ricketts Jr. Then David said, “Is there yet anyone left of the house of Saul, that I may show him kindness for Jonathan’s sake?”

–2 Samuel 9:1

If you’ve been watching the national news or listening to the world events of today on your car radio, it’s easy to learn that many live by the motto “What have you done for me lately?”

Politicians vote according to party lines. Business men and women give gifts to those who give them gifts or promise to do so. Lobbyists financially support government representatives who “respect” the lobby’s best interest. And sometimes in the church we only invite to eat with us those who invited us before.

Many scratch the backs of those who have scratched their back.

Yet can you imagine showing kindness to someone simply according to the kindness you have received from another? Can you imagine showing kindness not according to how a person made you feel, or what they did for you — not even for what they could potentially offer you — but rather because kindness was given to you by others?

In the Bible, David models this through upholding a covenant he made with Jonathan, the son of King Saul — the same Saul who desired to kill David.

1 Samuel 20:15-16 records their covenant. Jonathan said: 

            “You shall not cut off your lovingkindness from my house forever, not even when the Lord cuts off every one of the enemies of David from the face of the earth.”

            So Jonathan made a covenant with the house of David, saying, “May the Lord require it at the hands of David’s enemies.”

As a result, when David gained power, he showed kindness toward the defenseless Mephibosheth — grandson of King Saul, son of Jonathan — because Jonathan was kind toward David.

Mephibosheth was crippled physically, as well as socially and economically because he was a descendant of the defeated King Saul. David restores to Mephibosheth the land of his grandfather and gives him a seat at the royal table — signifying “You are valued economically and socially, but also personally.”

Personal. Kindness that is subjective, not objective. Kindness by which David welcomes Mephiboshethinto into his circle, getting to know him beyond identifying labels of group, culture or family. Kindness that turns clouds of historical pain and fear into a united future.

David chooses kindness instead of toeing the party line.
David chooses kindness instead of revenge.
David chooses kindness instead of bitterness.

When considering, “How should I treat people I don’t know?” remember the kindness of others toward you. If that doesn’t totally move you toward showing them kindness, consider the kindness that God has shown you.

Pause right there …

That is the same kindness God is asking for you to share, whether or not people have been kind to you.

—Carl Ricketts Jr., MDiv, BCC, is director of Chaplain Services for Loma Linda University Medical Center.

]]>
Thu, 12 Jul 2018 11:55:41 -0700
4264:34888 <![CDATA[Photo gallery: LLU Children's Health ad campaign]]> Loma Linda University Health is launching a new campaign to affirm the organization’s commitment to caring for children in our region.

Loma Linda University Children’s Health is the name that unites maternal and pediatric services across the full spectrum of Loma Linda University Health including teaching, research and clinical care. The Children’s Hospital name will continue for hospital services.

A new brand awareness campaign will use the name Loma Linda University Children’s Health and highlight our expansion of pediatric services. 

This video shows how our employees bring the tagline “Healing. Healthy. Happy.” to life and express what that means to them.

]]>
Thu, 28 Jun 2018 10:03:49 -0700
4264:34886 <![CDATA[Solutions for whole, equitable health — at your fingertips]]> News of the Week is beginning a series of periodic updates about resources produced by the Institute for Health Policy and Leadership at Loma Linda University Health. 

The Institute for Health Policy and Leadership is an active player in analyzing current issues, bills and laws dealing with health; curating coverage of key national news regarding healthcare, public health and science; and assessing implications for Seventh-day Adventist health systems.

Message from the Director: Wonha Kim

Hello! As the director of the Institute for Health Policy and Leadership, I am delighted to share who we are, what we do and why we exist with News of the Week readers. The institute’s visionis to provide education, leadership and research regarding policies aimed at preventing disease, promoting wellness and restoring human wholeness. 

To address policy issues facing vulnerable populations while building on the strengths of Loma Linda University Health, we have carefully chosen our strategic priority areas to be 1) mental health, 2) oral health and 3) hunger as a health issue. 

The institute has been fulfilling its vision through a variety of activities including quarterly Spotlight on Health Policy events on campus, relevant policy briefs and issue briefs, the weekly Healthcare News At A Glance newsletter, the Health Policy Connection blog, the Faculty Scholars Program, collaborative projects and major conferences. 

Founded in 2013 by Gerald Winslow, PhD, the institute team includes Helen Jung, DrPH, as senior health policy analyst, and Priya Vedula, MPH, as health policy analyst. The institute also brings together professionals with diverse expertise, including our Advisory Council, to generate innovative ideas regarding non-partisan policy solutions for whole, equitable health.

We are committed to developing proactive solutions to the health challenges facing our region, our nation and our world. By educating diverse stakeholders, including health professionals, policymakers and the public, we provide leadership on health policy for the 21st century. 

—Wonha Kim, MD, MPH, is director of the Institute for Health Policy and Leadership and an assistant professor at Loma Linda University in the schools of Medicine and Public Health.

June policy resources

Healthcare News at a Glance

June 27 issue

June 20 issue

June 13 issue

June 6 issue

Subscribe to stay up to date with this weekly installment of healthcare news from around the nation. Email subscription requests to ihpl@llu.edu.

June issue brief

Medical Care for the Aging Prisoners in California

June policy briefs

Hospital Patient Discharge Process: Homeless Patients” (SB 1152)

The Creating and Restoring Equal Access to Equivalent Samples Act of 2017” (S. 974/H.R 2212)

June blog posts — Health Policy Connection

Is this the end of the "End of Life Option Act'?

Shackling: The Story of Pregnant Incarcerated Women

Learn more

ihpl.llu.edu

 

]]>
Thu, 28 Jun 2018 10:02:53 -0700
4264:34884 <![CDATA[When God Speaks — a devotional]]> By Dilys Brooks 2 Samuel 7

The running has been over for several years. David rules from Jerusalem in a newly completed cedar palace. It was a much-needed period of rest after years of exile, hiding and warfare. I imagine David, in a moment of silence and reflection, coming to the realization that God had been the source of his triumphs, his success and this season of rest. His gratitude begets immediate action to do something for God. He talks with Nathan, the prophet, and shares his desire to move the ark of God from a tent into a more permanent structure. Later that night, God speaks to Nathan with a message for David. Although David’s plan was well-intentioned, it was not God’s plan and was not to be.

Over the years I have encountered many individuals who desire to hear from God to gain clarity on career choices, a life partner or understanding during a tough time. They often say, “I keep praying, but I can’t hear God speaking.” Other comments indicate that while they believe God does speak, they haven’t had a tangible encounter or remain unsure of what to do. 

This particular story in 2 Samuel 7 depicts access and response from God that may seem elusive in our scheduled, clinical, pragmatic, transitory, postmodern age. Could it really be that simple? Does God still speak in clear, concise language? 

It may be tempting to look at this specific instance and determine that since we don’t have “prophets” as part of our inner circle, we can’t have a similar experience. Instead, I would posit that we can have these types of occurrences if we connect and listen.

Summer is perhaps a great time to incorporate these holy habits more intentionally in our daily routines. Make time to stop and smell the roses; observe a sunrise or sunset; take a leisurely stroll or commit to have device-free time when first waking or falling asleep. These times allow us to become comfortable with silence while focusing on listening to God’s voice. 

When did you last spent time with your “Nathan”? You know — that person who encourages, supports, challenges, holds you accountable and cultivates his or her own relationship with God. We all need these connections to assist in staying on course in our personal and professional lives. Our responsibilities, as well as our triumphs, require that we make time to connect and listen to God. 

Like David, we have been invited to partner with God to serve our students, patients/clients, local community, county, state, nation and world. 

Like David, we too may create plans to do things for God that are noble and honorable, yet not in His will. It is through our active practice of connecting and listening to God and each other that we can respond affirmatively to His leading.

Join me in reading and reflecting on this chapter, 2 Samuel 7. God is still speaking.

Are we listening?

—Dilys Brooks, MDiv, is campus chaplain for Loma Linda University

]]>
Thu, 28 Jun 2018 10:01:14 -0700
4264:34885 <![CDATA[Family cooking class offered for employees]]> The Living Whole Wellness Program is offering a special cooking class for employees and their families, free of charge, on Wednesday, July 25, from 5:30 to 7 p.m.

Employees will have the opportunity to get their children involved in the kitchen with simple, kid-friendly fruit and vegetable recipes and ideas. Attendees will enjoy samples and leave with take-home recipes. 

The food demonstration is suitable for kids age 5 and up. Children must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian.

Seating is limited for the event, which will take place in the Nichol Hall kitchen. 

RSVP by calling ext. 14007.

]]>
Thu, 28 Jun 2018 10:01:48 -0700
4264:34889 <![CDATA[Esteemed research accreditation earned]]> Loma Linda University Health recently became one of five research organizations in the U.S. that has newly attained accreditation from the Association for the Accreditation of Human Research Protection Programs (AAHRPP), joining the elite list of institutions accredited around the world. 

To earn AAHRPP accreditation, organizations must show that they have built extensive safeguards into every level of their research operation and that they adhere to high standards for research, beyond that which is required by the U.S. government.

Michael R. Samardzija, PhD, JD, vice president for Research Affairs, says this accreditation marks an important milestone for Loma Linda University Health.

“As an organization we strive to promote, support and manage research activities and opportunities with a commitment to high ethical standards, and this acknowledgment is a testament to that,” Samardzija said.

Samardzijacredits Linda Halstead, director of responsible research, for her diligence in coordinating the requirements necessary for the accreditation. 

This accreditation puts Loma Linda University Health in an elite category of 250 organizations around the world committed to AAHRPP's high standards for ethical research that prioritizes the safety and welfare of participants.

]]>
Thu, 28 Jun 2018 10:04:13 -0700
4264:34887 <![CDATA[New class of medical residents welcomed]]> Four charter buses with more than 170 new resident physicians aboard rolled out of campus on June 25 — day one of orientation for the new class of medical residents beginning their service at Loma Linda University Health — for the organization’s first “See the City You Serve” tour.

The tour introduced the new residents to San Bernardino and the branch locations where they will serve, including SAC Health System at Loma Linda University Health – San Bernardino.

The tour offered resident physicians a unique glimpse into the health disparities of one of the largest counties in the U.S. and a better understanding of social determinants their patients face. 

Read the full story at news.llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 28 Jun 2018 10:03:25 -0700
4264:34805 <![CDATA[Judge Not — a devotional]]> By Kathy McMillan The Ark of the Covenant headed toward Jerusalem, carried by priests at the front of a joyful procession. Thousands of Israelites followed, celebrating loudly. King David led the crowd, dancing before the Lord “with all his might,” grateful for God’s care.

Everyone joined in the festivities except for one. As the crowd moved into the city, David’s wife, Michal, watched from a window. When she saw the king leaping and dancing, scripture says “she despised him in her heart.” Later that evening, she met him with scathing sarcasm, saying “How the king of Israel has distinguished himself today.” David had nothing to hide. He explained that he was simply expressing his devotion and worship to God.

Were David’s actions disrespectful, or were they an appropriate gift of worship? Who gets to decide? 

Different temperaments and personalities express themselves in various ways. All too often, we are annoyed or offended by another person’s style or expressions. With “righteous” indignation, we hurl accusations and judgment on them. 

We cannot know a person’s heart. None can judge motives other than God.

Jesus, in His Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 7:1, shared a better way: “Do not judge, or you too will be judged." He continues by asking why we look at the speck of sawdust in another’s eye and pay no attention to the plank that is in our own. It’s a question worth contemplating.

—Kathy McMillan is director of Employee Spiritual Care at Loma Linda University Medical Center.

]]>
Thu, 21 Jun 2018 10:35:51 -0700
4264:34806 <![CDATA[Timing of birth – webinar]]> The Living Whole Wellness Program will host a free live-streamed presentation on Wednesday, June 27, from 5:30–6 p.m. to answers to questions about the timing of birth.

Viewers will be able to ask questions and interact live with featured speaker Steven Yellon, PhD. Olivia Moses, DrPH, CWHC, director of corporate health and wellness, will host the live presentation.

The livestream will be available at Loma Linda University Health’s Facebook page or on the Wellness Live webpage.

For more information, call 909-651-4007.

Viewers who missed last month’s live broadcast on maximizing visual potential with Michael Rauser, MD, can view it, along with numerous past presentations, in Wellness Live On Demand.  

]]>
Thu, 21 Jun 2018 10:36:43 -0700
4264:34807 <![CDATA[New hospital complex passes major milestones in the construction timeline]]> Before a building as large as the new Loma Linda University Medical Center tower and Children’s Hospital tower can go up, the builders had to dig down. The foundation for these structures includes an innovative seismic safety system to keep the towers safe and in operation through large earthquakes.

The construction pit now contains the foundation, and all floors, with decking, have reached the original ground level grade or beyond. Although the pit is out of sight, it is doing its job containing all of the seismic reduction elements (dampers and isolators) along with 20 percent of the weight of the building in structural steel on the first layer only.

            Full story: Filling up a pit to support a new medical center

In another milestone, the podium section of the new Loma Linda University Medical Center and Children’s Hospital tower is also nearing completion, and that’s a big deal.

While work has slowed just a bit since the first of June due to a boom in the steel manufacturing industry, the good news is that this slowdown has allowed ironworkers to catch up on the south side’s construction. Once normal deliveries of steel resume, both cranes will operate full speed ahead. The goal is for the podium to be topped off by the end of June. When it happens, there will be a celebration. 

            Full story: Podium nears completion; hospital towers set for construction in early summer

]]>
Thu, 21 Jun 2018 10:37:26 -0700
4264:34808 <![CDATA[Effective conversations about suicide and other mental health issues]]> By Janelle Ringer Melissa J. Pereau, MD, has a passion for helping people during a critical point in their lives, which is why the psychiatrist spends her days working with patients thinking about or who have attempted suicide. As a medical director and psychiatrist at the Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center, Pereau is faced daily with the realities of suicide and how the topic — and other topics around mental health — impact nearly every community in some way.

Despite the prevalence of mental health issues, discussions about it are often rebuffed due to the sensitivities surrounding it. Although recent high-profile suicides in the U.S. stirred questions that have prompted people to confront the issue, the problem is wider than many realize. Nationally, the rate of suicide has increased by 30 percent since the mid-1990s, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. On average, there are 123 suicides per day in the United States, according to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

Pereau’s work with patients and their support groups has inspired her to be a voice for mental health awareness. Her work has exposed her to many questions from patients and their friends and families about mental health and suicide. Pereau sat down for an interview to discuss mental health issues, including seeking support, help and tools. Here are some edited excerpts.

How should a friend or family member of someone suffering from mental health issues approach the conversation in a non-harmful way?

Make sure you’re not approaching the person with judgment. Go into the conversation being willing to show your own vulnerabilities and your own weaknesses. Coming from a place of love and care can best help you address the topic of thoughts of suicide or feelings of depression or anxiety.

If someone is avoiding seeing a physician because they believe they’re likely to receive a diagnosis, how can they mitigate the fear of the label?

Someone not wanting to see a mental health professional because they’re afraid of being labeled with “mental illness” makes sense, but it doesn’t help the root issue. It’s also the same as not seeing a doctor for fear of being labeled with diabetes. It still means you have the illness. It still means you need help, and it’s important for you to get the help you need.

What if someone’s circumstances are largely contributing to their emotional pain? How can they know what is caused by their situation and what is due to an underlying mental illness?

Life circumstances can definitely contribute to thoughts about suicide, and a person can become trapped and isolated by those circumstances. Having support and having people to reach out to is more important than anything else in those situations. Not being alone can help in both situations, whether suffering from mental illness or circumstances. 

Are there any words or phrases you would advise people to stay away from when talking about mental health?

It’s important to stay away from things that sensationalize mental illness, mental health, details of suicide or details of illness. These things can be highly triggering. Instead, ask what someone is struggling with or what is causing them pain. These questions provide a lot more comfort than going into specifics. 

What is a mental health assessment?

An assessment can be done by a variety of different providers, and it looks at current ongoing stressors and ways of dealing with those stressors. Sometimes, it looks at previous life experience, but often it looks at day-to-day experiences, and how far off you might be from your ideal baseline. You can talk to a psychiatrist, a psychologist, a social worker, a counselor or even your primary care doctor.

Should patients have concerns that antidepressants or psychiatric medications will change them as an individual? 

Medications that treat mental illness are not designed to turn you into a different person. They are to help get you back to who you were before there was illness. Often, people are afraid to give the medication enough time to work. Some antidepressants can take up to six weeks or longer to work, so talk to your doctor to know what you should expect. 

Is it better for someone with a mental illness to be treated by medication or by therapy?

The best management strategy involves medications in combination with counseling and therapies. This “whole person” approach to treatment works to both get you to the root of the issue and balance the chemicals in the brain.

How can a person even begin to cope with the suicide of a loved one?

Stay involved with other people, either by joining a support group, or a small group of people you trust. There will often be a tendency to pull away from others, but without distractions, you are more likely to trigger painful memories about the loss. Work toward nourishing and regular eating habits and try to both exercise and rest. Both can help with the pain.

To continue the conversation, watch excerpts of Melissa J. Pereau’s Facebook Live segment, "SUICIDE: Know the Signs. Take Action."

If you, or someone you know is struggling with depression or thoughts of suicide, please make sure they know about the resources and after-hours phone numbers available 24/7, including the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) and the Crisis Text Line at 741-741. Employees and students of Loma Linda University Health may utilize the Employee & Student Assistance Program by calling 909-558-6050.

]]>
Thu, 21 Jun 2018 10:38:56 -0700
4264:34809 <![CDATA[Parking Lot P reassigned to valet services]]> The valet ADA parking lot, located in front of the Schuman Pavilion, will close in July for construction of the Campus Transformation Project’s Schuman Bridge. This closure will be in place from July 2, 2018–Nov. 23, 2020. 

Valet services provides parking support to nearly 300 patients per day. To maintain these services for the International Heart Institute, Cancer Center and James M. Slater, MD Proton Treatment & Research Center, Lot P will be reassigned as valet patient parking.

Employees who park in Lot P are requested to contact Parking Services for permit reassignment. Parking options include Lot N, Lot J and the employee parking structures, P1 and P2. 

Loma Linda University Health administrators offer their thanks to employees for their compassion and assistance in fulfilling the mission for our patients.

For questions, please contact Parking & Traffic Services at 909-651-3025 or Parking@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 21 Jun 2018 10:39:29 -0700
4264:34810 <![CDATA[25,000+ years of employee service celebrated — story and photos ]]> The 2018 Employee Service Recognition Banquets on May 30–31 and June 6–7 honored long-serving staff and faculty who have achieved milestone work anniversaries at Loma Linda University Health ranging from five to 65 years. 

The combined service represented by the 1,826 invited employees is 25,055 years. About 1,470 were able to attend the banquets.

For the first time this year, the events were open rather than organized by entity, allowing employees to choose which of the six banquets to attend. This brought together employees from across different parts of the organization as members of a collective Loma Linda University Health. 

Another enhancement this year was the inclusion of clinical faculty members employed by Faculty Medical Group (a legally distinct body) and LLU voluntary faculty.

Impressive service and values exemplars

Among the many employee milestones celebrated, six individuals had the special distinction of serving the organization for a half century or more:

50 years

Jere Chrispens (LLU voluntary faculty)
Elena O. Aguilar
Janel Stellhorn
Stanley Crispin 

60 years

John Scharffenberg (LLU voluntary faculty)

65 years

George Wiesseman (LLU voluntary faculty)

In addition, 22 employees were honored with Values Exemplar Awards. The awardees are selected from nominations for exemplifying the core values of Loma Linda University Health — compassion, integrity, excellence, teamwork and wholeness — and of Loma Linda University: compassion, integrity, excellence, freedom, justice, purity/self-control and humility. 

The Values Exemplars were:

Loma Linda University

Janelle Pyke, 40 years of service
Jamie (Speed) Meert, 15 years of service
Martin Aguirre, 30 years of service
Sylvia Stewart, 40 years of service
John Wical, 30 years of service

LLU Behavioral Medicine Center

Irene Saldana, 25 years of service

LLU Children’s Hospital

Valorie Adams, 45 years of service
Jelyn Bacani, 10 years of service
Rachell Heramil, 40 years of service
Tamara Hitchcock, 10 years of service
Arden Maranan, 30 years of service 

LLU Health Care

Anna M. Smith, 15 years of service
Susannah Hundley, 15 years of service
Mignon Mosley, 20 years of service 

LLU Medical Center

Faye Hoff, 35 years of service
Glenn Robinson, 40 years of service 

LLU Medical Center – Murrieta

Lauren Federico, 5years of service
Bobbi Connor, 5 years of service
Matt Davidson, 5 years of service 

LLU Shared Services

Mary Clement, 20 years of service
Gary Mansfield, 15 years of service
Iris Ram, 15 years of service

Photos for viewing or download

Photographers captured many special moments of the six banquets. 

Event galleries:

Loma Linda campus

Murrieta campus

To download pictures from the galleries:

  • Click on the thumbnail to view full-size image.
  • Right-click on the full-size image and select "Save image (picture) as ..."
]]>
Thu, 21 Jun 2018 10:40:18 -0700
4264:34718 <![CDATA[July means All Star Appreciation]]> Employees, volunteers and students — it’s time to reserve your free tickets to the annual Loma Linda University Health baseball nights.

There are two games to choose from:

• Wednesday, July 11, at 6 p.m. — Lake Elsinore Storm (home) vs. Inland Empire 66ers
• Wednesday, July 25, at 7 p.m. — Inland Empire 66ers (home) vs. Visalia Rawhide

Each employee, volunteer or student may reserve up to six complimentary tickets for one of these two Minor League games. Reserve them online or stop by the respective stadium in person for the tickets. 

Prizes will be given via opportunity drawings, including the annual Hawaii vacation package. Tickets for the opportunity drawings were mailed via the U.S. Post office to people’s homes this week. Must be present to win the vacation and some other prizes, with the exception of employees scheduled to work that evening. They can call 1-877-LLUMC-4U to be entered in the contest.

Visit the All-Star Appreciation page on One Portal for more information.

]]>
Thu, 07 Jun 2018 00:00:00 -0700
4264:34777 <![CDATA[Second commencement weekend for 5 schools included milestone 10,000th graduate of the School of Nursing, LLU's eldest school]]> Commencement June 10 crowned the educational achievements of the class of 2018 for the schools of Allied Health Professions, Behavioral Health, Nursing, Public Health and Religion.

Five schools, 986 graduates

School of Allied Health Professions

The day’s first two ceremonies celebrated the 543 graduates of the School of Allied Health Professions, the largest school at Loma Linda University.

Full stories and photos: School of Allied Health Professions commencement

School of Behavioral Health

108 master’s and doctoral students graduated from the School of Behavioral Health in a ceremony that honored students, alumni and longtime faculty/staff.

Full stories and photos: School of Behavioral Health commencement

School of Nursing

The112th graduating class of LLU’s eldest school included alumni number 10,000 — Alyssa Vega. 

Full stories and photos: School of Nursing commencement

School of Public Health

The 120 public health graduates included students from 25 different nations, a diversity that enhances the richness of the learning environment, according to LLU President Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, also a former dean of the School of Public Health.

Full stories and photos: School of Public Health commencement

School of Religion

Five School of Religion students graduated with a Master of Arts in Bioethics. Additionally, the School of Religion plays a role in the success of every graduate from Loma Linda University’s seven other schools by providing religious and spiritual education to all students.

Full stories and photos: School of Religion commencement

Students win the President’s Award

Every year one student from each of Loma Linda University’s schools (two for Allied Health Professions, the largest school at LLU) is presented with the President’s Award, the highest honor a school can bestow upon a student.

Click to read their stories:

Bates Moses, regional leader in ethical medicine, earns President’s Award from School of Religion

Marissa Lee named 2018 President’s Award winner for School of Public Health

Compassionate service distinguishes Lauren Ochs, winner of the President’s Award from the School of Nursing

Lobo receives 2018 School of Behavioral Health President’s Award

Newcombe honored for signifying high scholastic achievement, service in student community

Physical therapy student Claire Nguyen receives 2018 Loma Linda University Allied Health Professions President’s Award

That’s a wrap — commencement 2018

The June 10 ceremonies for five schools wrapped up commencement season 2018, which began Memorial Day weekend with the ceremonies for the schools of Dentistry, Medicine and Pharmacy.

]]>
Thu, 14 Jun 2018 11:25:20 -0700
4264:34781 <![CDATA[Why Magnet status is important to Loma Linda University Health]]> By Holly Yelorda Improved patient outcomes. A positive work environment with shared decision making on patient care issues. A culture where people like to work. Increased consumer confidence that Loma Linda University Health provides great care.

These are just a few of the goals for Loma Linda University Health as the organization has entered the documentation phase of seeking Magnet designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Once the process is complete, Loma Linda University’s Children’s Hospital and Medical Center will join 475 healthcare organizations throughout the United States as Magnet facilities. California is home to 33 of those institutions.

The two-year documentation phase will be a time for nurses to help identify examples of Loma Linda University Health’s commitment to the components of the Magnet model — transformational leadership; structural empowerment; exemplary professional practices; new knowledge, innovations and improvements; and focus on outcomes.

The process of reaching Magnet status will challenge not only the nursing team, but will demand an increased focus on quality outcomes across the entire workforce including the interprofessional colleagues that work alongside our nurses. But the commitment to reaching Magnet status is a strong statement by hospital leadership of their belief that Loma Linda University Health staff and personnel are among the very best. 

There is much research confirming that Magnet organizations have favorable patient outcomes. Magnet organizations provide positive work environments for their employees, allowing for team members to work in an organization that is committed to shared decision-making and professional development. Once we achieve Magnet designation, our Inland Empire community will have another indication that LLUH provides high-quality care and patient satisfaction.

Information about Loma Linda University Health’s journey to Magnet status will be updated regularly on the One Portal’s Magnet page.

—Holly Yelorda, MSN, RN, is magnet coordinator for Loma Linda University Health.

]]>
Thu, 14 Jun 2018 11:31:06 -0700
4264:34779 <![CDATA[A view from all sides — employee, patient, community member, donor]]> Growing up, Tanisha Ware put Loma Linda University Health in top position on her list of dream employers. The Grand Terrace native has fulfilled that dream as an employee of the organization for almost seven years. 

She is a senior administrative assistant in managed care contracting. Ware also experienced the organization as a patient when she delivered her now 4-year-old twins at the Children’s Hospital. 

“My nurses were so fantastic,” she said. “I want to carry their pictures with me like I carry pictures of my kids, because they were so good to me.”

Family is Ware’s priority. In addition to the twins, she is mother of an 11-year-old. To the delight of her co-workers, she also carries on her grandmother’s legacy of baking the best banana bread around. 

When Ware wanted to give back, the Family Fund for employees of Loma Linda University Health was the right fit. Ware is now a regular contributor to the Grow Together Employee Giving Campaign.

Read Ware’s full story on the Grow Together website. 

What is Grow Together?

Whatever your position at Loma Linda University Health, employees’ commitment to the mission “to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ” helps save lives and educate the next generations of teachers and healers.

Now more than ever, your help is needed to transform the way we teach, heal and serve through Vision 2020 – The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow. Through Grow Together, you can invest in the future of healthcare and education in the Inland Empire. Visit lluhvision2020.org to learn more.

]]>
Thu, 14 Jun 2018 11:27:48 -0700
4264:34782 <![CDATA[Whose Voice Should You Listen To?]]> By Terry Swenson As a young man, I heard the call of God to go into the ministry. I felt the stirrings of the Holy Spirit directing me. Spiritual mentors spoke words of encouragement and agreed that I should follow that pathway. My family and friends told me that they had seen my walk with the Lord and felt that ministry should be the direction for my professional life. I listened to these voices and enrolled in ministerial training. As part of the degree track, during our sophomore year we were each to be interviewed and tested to see if we had the right stuff to be ministers. If it was deemed that we had it, we could proceed in our program.

I took my tests, filled out my psychological surveys, etc. Now came the day of my interview. My professor poured over the results. He paused momentarily. Then, leaning back in his chair, he looked at me for what seemed an eternity. Finally, he spoke. 

The words that came out of his mouth stunned me. 

In his estimation, I wouldn’t be successful in a career as a minister. It would be his recommendation that I not continue in the program. I was devastated. Interesting. His one voice had drowned out all of the others that had spoken positively to proceed. I headed home to tell my bride that I was going to change my career. How could I proceed when the voice of the professional had spoken against me?

King David faced the same quandary in 2 Samuel 5. He had finally ascended to the throne of Israel. And, now, he came face to face with his first major challenge. David and his men had come to Jerusalem, which was then under the control of the Jebusites. It was a formidable fortress. David and his men held no fear for the Jebusites! In verse 6 we read: “The Jebusites taunted David, saying ‘You’ll never get in here! Even the blind and lame could keep you out!’ For the Jebusites thought they were safe.”

For the most part, their taunt was true. David could have listened to their voices and turned away, but David had learned over his lifetime to listen to another voice — God’s. When the prophet Samuel sought God’s replacement for King Saul, even he couldn’t believe that God would choose a young shepherd boy — but God did! When he went up against the giant mighty Philistine warrior Goliath, Goliath thought it was an insult for Israel to send such a “little worm” to fight him. Once again, David listened to God and prevailed. 

So when the Jebusites called out to convince David he was inadequate he ignored them. He listened to God. What was the result? “So David made the fortress his home, and he called it the City of David. He extended the city, starting at the supporting terracesand working inward. And David became more and more powerful, because the LordGod of Heaven’s Armies was with him.” (2 Samuel 5:9-10)

What are the voices saying to you? That you aren’t good enough? That you don’t have what it takes? That you don’t matter? God says otherwise! You are His beloved. You are His son/daughter. What about the challenges that are facing your job, your department, or, for that matter all of Loma Linda University Health? 

God is saying that nothing is impossible for Him! And, through Him, nothing is impossible for us! “Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.” (Romans 8:37) 

Each day, we must choose which voices we will listen to. I’m not sure why one negative or contrary statement has the ability to upend the many positive ones. What I do know is this: I choose to listen to and follow that same God that David did. Won’t you join me in doing the same?

—Terry Swenson, DMin, is director of University Spiritual Care.

 

]]>
Thu, 14 Jun 2018 11:33:05 -0700
4264:34711 <![CDATA[Murder or victory — that is the question]]> By Carla Gober-Park A devotional on 2 Samuel 4

It is a bloody sight. Two brothers rush victorious to King David, lugging a severed head. They stand before King David with their repulsive remittance, hearts beating excitedly. David looks at them curiously. He has stood where they now stand — in front of a king holding a head — after he killed Goliath. Murder and victory sometimes come together in one dissevering act.  

But is this murder or is it victory? 

We face this question a lot. Every time we speak about another person, whether in our thoughts or in conversation with others, or when we make choices about how to treat our bodies or the bodies of others, we face it: Is this murder or is it victory? Is it right to do what I am doing at this moment? Is it right to say what I am saying?

As it happens, David is not amused. Nor was he amused the last time a messenger brought “good news” to him about the death of “an enemy.” David killed that messenger because that messenger killed King Saul, who was God’s anointed. Not good. David spoke clearly to that messenger: While it may be easier that Saul is dead, it should not have been your hand that killed him!

With this in mind, David now looks at the two brothers in front of him — messengers who bring “good news.” They have killed Ish-Bosheth (Saul’s son). They stand before David with his head in their hands, blood trickling from their gruesome gift, expecting congratulations. 

Finally, David speaks.

“When someone told me, ‘Saul is dead’ and thought he was bringing good news, I seized him and put him to death. … That was the reward I gave him for his news! How much more — when wicked men have killed an innocent man in his own house and on his own bed — shall I not now demand his blood from your hand and rid the earth of you.”  

In others words:

You are wicked men.
You went into a man’s house where he was defenseless.
The man you killed was innocent.

Put into one sentence: You had no right to destroy this life!  

Sometimes we are proud to get the best of our “enemies.” We stand unafraid with their heads in our hands. Through gossip, insinuation or even the sharing of true facts that hurt others’ reputations or decrease their effectiveness, we move with misplaced courage. We often do the same with the bodies of others, pushing them to take action (or accept it) when it is not in their best interest. We must consider:

Do I act out of “wicked” intent?
Do I act against the defenseless?
Do I act against the innocent? 

Will God say to me what David said to the two messengers?

You had no right to destroy this life!

  

—Carla Gober-Park, PhD, is assistant vice president for Spiritual Life and Mission at Loma Linda University Health, as well as director of the Center for Spiritual Life and Wholeness.

 

 

]]>
Thu, 07 Jun 2018 10:59:33 -0700
4264:34713 <![CDATA[Detoxing: Health or Hype?]]> The Living Whole Wellness Program and Loma Linda University Cancer Center will present a free cooking demonstration themed “Detox: Health or Hype” on Wednesday, June 13, from 6–7:30 p.m. at the Nichol Hall kitchen.

The Cancer Center’s Chef Tamie Vasquez, CLM, CLMC, will lead the demonstration followed by a discussion of the featured recipes’ nutrition content. Attendees will enjoy samples and leave with take-home recipes.  

Seating is limited. Please RSVP by calling ext. 14007.

This event is part of Loma Linda University Health’s 2018 series of cancer-fighting foods demonstrations.

]]>
Thu, 07 Jun 2018 11:01:25 -0700
4264:34714 <![CDATA[Why do NAFTA and U.S.-Mexico relations matter?]]> Loma Linda University Health is co-sponsoring the June 25 World Affairs Council Inland Southern California event “Why NAFTA & U.S. Mexico Relations Are Important to You.”

The Hon. Earl Anthony Wayne, American ambassador to Mexico from 2011 to 2015, will present on how the upcoming elections in Mexico could impact the United States. He will also share his insights on the North American Free Trade Agreement based on years working with Mexican government leaders and nationals.

The event will be held at 6 p.m., Monday, June 25, at the Garden Room at San Manuel Gateway College, 250 S. G St., San Bernardino.

Program and admission

The event includes both a buffet reception and the presentation, and admission to both is free for students with ID. The cost of both is $30 for World Affairs Council members who preregister and $40 for non-members who preregister. 

General admission for those who wish to attend only the discussion portion of the program at 6:40 p.m. is $20. The door price will be $25, space permitting. 

Register or learn more, or call 909-558-7446, or email kyutuc@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 07 Jun 2018 11:08:27 -0700
4264:34715 <![CDATA['Building something together' — celebrating 10 years of maternal-fetal medicine ]]> Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital celebrated the 10-year anniversary of maternal-fetal medicine at the Perinatal Institute with an event on Friday, June 1.

LLU Children’s Hospital has had a longstanding reputation for the care it provides to mothers and babies. However, prior to 2008 there was an opportunity to do more to address the health concerns of the mother and fetus before, during and shortly after pregnancy.

In May 2008, maternal-fetal medicine services became available to expectant mothers with the opening of the Perinatal Institute at Children’s Hospital. A group of clinicians led by Bryan Oshiro, MD, high-risk gynecology and obstetrics researcher, then the medical director of the Perinatal Institute, joined forces to create a multi-disciplinary center to treat expectant mothers and fetuses who required specialized care. 

“We needed to bring together all aspects of perinatal care so patients would only have to come to one place,” Oshiro said. “It was an exciting time, and everyone wanted to work together to make it happen. We were building something together.”

Also working in tandem with the group was the late Lawrence D. Longo, MD, founder and director emeritus of the Center for Perinatal Biology at LLU. An internationally known researcher, Longo’s research in the field of developmental physiology greatly influenced and made possible the care Children’s Hospital provides to families treated at the institute. His daughter, Elisabeth Longo, attended the anniversary event and was presented with a plaque in his honor. 

The Perinatal Institute includes the Total Care Birth Center, neonatal ICU, Birth & Beyond Center, and the Comprehensive Tobacco Treatment Program.

Kevin Balli, MD, chair of gynecology and obstetrics, says the future of maternal-fetal medicine at the institute is bright. 

“We want to provide excellent obstetrical care for patients who have high-risk issues,” Balli said. “We have grown, and we have a department of physicians who are really passionate about giving their all to help patients in this area.”

For more information on maternal-fetal medicine or the Perinatal Institute visit their website or call 1-800-825-KIDS.

***

 Watch: Video about the Perinatal Institute's 10 years

]]>
Thu, 07 Jun 2018 11:22:09 -0700
4264:34705 <![CDATA[Notes from the President — Passing of the Torch ]]> By Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   June 2018
Passing of the Torch

“Richard

My Mom passed away recently, two days after Mother’s Day and a month after her 97th birthday. What a flood of memories I have been reliving. It was time — she was ready. But it is still a painful transition.  

It was good Mom had two boys, as she understood and could keep up with us most of our lives. Her own stories as a child always made me jealous of all they did on the family ranch outside Fallon, Nevada. Her parents, Oscar and Betty Swanson, had both come from Sweden as teenagers, met, married and homesteaded an 80 acre piece of desert. 

I can still vividly remember visiting Grandpa and Grandma’s place, with its old workshop, barns, fences, dairy herd, chicken house and never-ending chores. I earned my first real money trapping gophers at age 6, as the county paid a 10-cent bounty for every gopher tail you brought in. Grandpa also paid 1 cent for each bailing wire we picked up around the ranch. Mom’s handshake remained strong to the end from those early days of milking cows and working on the ranch. 

Mom and her friends made their own fun in those early days, swimming in the canals and skating on them in the winter, making a group swing out of an old car frame hoisted into a tree, and driving over the top of sage brush that would lift the entire car. She and her older sister, Ella Swanson Bishop, made accommodations between their Adventist religious practices and their high school friends. 

Mom went off to La Sierra for college, but then was convinced by friends to transfer to Walla Walla College, in Washington. It was there this freckle-faced cowgirl from Nevada caught my Dad’s eye and they married the summer he graduated. With WWII raging, Dad’s earlier polio gave him a medical deferment, so he took a job teaching science at Campion Academy in Loveland, Colorado. It was there my brother Ken was born at the old Boulder Sanitarium. From then on, Mom’s life was dedicated to her boys.

Two years later, Dad was accepted at what was then the College of Medical Evangelists in Loma Linda and started medical school in 1944, where I was born a year later. We lived in a remodeled garage and Dad would ride us to the market on his bike, with me in the front basket and Ken riding on back, where he could buy a large bag of broken Ruskets for a month of breakfasts. Then an internship in Spokane, Washington, several years in Rockford, Washington, and then back to Dad’s old stomping grounds in Troy, Idaho. It was there we really grew up, thoroughly blessed by wandering the fields and woods, working on the local farms, and attending a two-room church school with never more than 25 students. 

Dad was a true country doctor, practicing with a college friend, Omer Drury, and anchoring that corner of northern Idaho. As “doc’s” wife, Mom initiated, organized and hosted a never-ending sequence of activities — from Saturday night parties to church campouts for huckleberry and mushroom picking, Fourth of July ball games, and sifting for arrowheads along the Snake River. It was a good life and one we were always eager to return to even after we headed off to academy and college. 

Richard-Hart-parents2

Though neither had traveled abroad, Mom and Dad had a deep sense of adventure and a calling to serve others, and they started responding to short term mission needs, first in Ecuador and Jamaica. After Dad completed an anesthesiology residency at Loma Linda University Health — and saw Ken and me through medical school — they accepted a full-time call to serve as missionaries in Blantyre, Malawi. We followed them and for a few years all of us were in Africa — Mom and Dad in Malawi, Ken and Dee in Zambia, and Judy and me in Tanzania. After a second stint in Nairobi, Dad returned to join the anesthesiology department at Loma Linda, followed by retirement to Roseburg, Oregon, then College Place, Washington, and finally back here to Loma Linda.

As their sunset years progressed, they had many friends from different countries come by to visit, while Mom kept up her garden and flowers, always driven by a need to remain active. I noticed their covering for each other’s growing limitations — Dad’s decreasing mobility and hearing, and Mom’s fading memory. Dad died three and a half years ago at 94 and now Mom at 97. But their memory will live on through their two children, five grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. Mom’s tough Swedish heritage, quest for adventure and strong work ethic, coupled with Dad’s curiosity and intellect, flows through our veins.  

They never completely understood the social issues of today with changing behaviors and mores. And while they asked the usual questions about their church, their loyalty never wavered. Generous in giving and living, they led a less complicated life than now, anchored in a bedrock belief and commitment to core values they inherently knew and understood, long before we spelled them out in more recent years. 

I am deeply grateful for a family — though often separated by miles and oceans — who was consistently loyal to each other, without drama, and for a wife and sister-in-law who seamlessly joined that family. While we were private without a lot of visible emotions, the feelings ran deep and Mom leaves a huge void. Now we are the oldest generation, living with our own stories and making our own memories. But I am acutely aware that my own life and history are molded by an incredible heritage that I owe to my parents. Thank you, Mom and Dad. See you soon.

On this graduation weekend, may we all remember our own unique heritage and value what we have been given by those who have gone before. Thank you, graduates, for sharing a part of that journey with Loma Linda University Health.

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH

“Richard

 

 

 

President
Loma Linda University Health

 

Vision 2020 – The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow

]]>
Thu, 07 Jun 2018 09:40:52 -0700
4264:34619 <![CDATA[Surgical Hospital is a top workplace, says Modern Healthcare]]> Loma Linda University Surgical Hospital has been named a top workplace in healthcare by Modern Healthcare, a leading source of healthcare business news, research and data. 

The Surgical Hospital will be honored at the 2018 Best Places to Work Gala on Sept. 27. in Dallas, Texas. The recognition program, now in its 11th year, honors workplaces throughout the healthcare industry that empower employees to provide patients with the best possible care, service and products. 

“What a blessing to have an incredible team of dedicated physicians, nurses and staff who tirelessly go above and beyond for patient care,” said Kerry Henrich, JD, CEO of Loma Linda University Medical Center. “Their dedication to a workplace filled with compassion and teamwork exemplifies this top honor.” 

See the full story at news.llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 31 May 2018 09:32:03 -0700
4264:34618 <![CDATA[The sights, the sounds — 457 dentists, pharmacists and physicians graduate]]> Commencement May 27 crowned the educational achievements of the class of 2018 for the schools of Dentistry, Medicine and Pharmacy at Loma Linda University. 

School of Dentistry

Graduates totaling 188 now represent the School of Dentistry as they go into the world after completing the programs of doctor of dental surgery, dental hygiene, international dentist program or advanced education. 

See more: Full story and photos of School of Dentistry commencement

School of Medicine

The School of Medicine’s commencement service honored the academic excellence of a new generation of 189 physicians and medical researchers who completed this phase of their academic journey. 

Loma Linda University also presented a Lifetime Service Award to alumnus Leonard Bailey, MD, an iconic surgeon, for his four decades of leadership and research in infant heart transplantation.

See more: Full story and photos of School of Medicine commencement

School of Pharmacy

It was the moment 80 students had been looking forward to since they first embarked on their journey at Loma Linda University in 2014, all with one common goal in mind — to devote themselves to a lifetime of service to others through the profession of pharmacy.

See more: Full story and photos of School of Pharmacy commencement

 

Students win the President’s Award

Every year one student from each of Loma Linda University’s schools is presented with the President’s Award, the highest honor a school can bestow upon a student.

Click to read their stories:

Alison Perez awarded School of Dentistry’s 2018 President’s Award

The dental student inspired her peers as president of the American Student Dental Association.

Shawnee Daniel – ‘a proven leader’ – presented with President’s Award for School of Pharmacy

The 2018 graduate was recognized for her scholastic achievement, participation in her student community and her commitment to the mission of Loma Linda University.

Academic powerhouse Ethan Frank awarded 2018 School of Medicine President’s Award

He was one of five students inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society during junior year.

 

Upcoming commencement ceremonies

Degrees for Loma Linda University’s other five schools — Allied Health Professions, Behavioral Health, Nursing, Public Health and Religion — will be conferred Sunday, June 10, in Drayson Center. 

See the schedule of full commencement activities throughout the weekend of June 8–10.

]]>
Thu, 31 May 2018 09:31:20 -0700
4264:34617 <![CDATA[Help for anxiety and depression]]> The Employee & Student Assistance Program is beginning a new support group in June to help campus members cope with depression and anxiety. 

The free group will provide a forum for confidential discussion guided by facilitators Belinda Gutierrez, MS, LMFT, and Marion Swenson, MS. Principles of cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness will be incorporated.

Topics will include environmental stressors, personal triggers, relaxation techniques, assertive communication and positive cognitions.

The first meeting is Tuesday, June 12, at 6 p.m. Thereafter the group will meet the second Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m.

For more information, call the Employee & Student Assistance Program at 909-558-6050.

Location

11360 Mountain View Avenue
Hartford Building, Ste. A
Loma Linda, CA 92354

]]>
Thu, 31 May 2018 09:30:32 -0700
4264:34616 <![CDATA[The Pain is Real — a devotional]]> By Carl A. Ricketts Jr. “The war between the house of Saul and the house of David dragged on and on.”

                                                                                    –2 Samuel 3:1

Most of us are cool, calm and collected when experiencing the best of times, but when pain strikes, it is challenging to remain this way. Pain will cause the most volatile and unpredictable of responses, especially when the pain comes from the people closest to us.

In 2 Samuel 3, Abner, the son of King Saul’s military commander, is taking advantage of the war between Saul and David to gain more power for himself. When Saul’s son Ish-Bosheth confronts Abner for taking Saul’s concubine, the scheming Abner feels insulted and loses his temper. He flies into a rant full of self-virtue and threats. 

When pain hit Abner, it brought out what was on his inside — pride and desire for recognition.

So Abner reaches out to David and creates an alliance. Joab, the commander of David’s army, is troubled by the deal because Abner is his brother’s murderer. Joab searches for Abner and exacts revenge by taking his life. 

When pain hit Joab, it brought out what was on the inside — grief and revenge.

The war between the house of Saul and the house of David could very well speak to the many wars being dragged on within our lives today. Today, someone may cause me pain. Tomorrow, I may cause someone pain. And when we hurt, we respond in ways others, and ourselves, do not expect.

The pain is real.

When we are hurt by those closest to us, the pain causes us to hear things differently. It causes us to see what’s not real. We respond to pain by changing loyalties, seeking revenge or even by creating stories that are not real. We may even believe that the absence of our wrongdoer will bring relief. 

Yet God’s solution for healing the pain is patience. 

The unresolved feelings inside of us do not give license to respond negatively when we are hurt. “Count it all joy when you fall into different trials and tribulations, knowing that the trying of your faith worketh patience. Let patience have her perfect work, that you may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing.” (James 1:2-4)

God’s perspective is always greater than our pain. And if we will seek relief in His care, in His time and in His way, we will see that the pain is always temporary.

In our patient response to hurt and pain, let us listen to God’s voice providing us healing.

—Carl Ricketts Jr., MDiv, is director of Chaplain Services for Loma Linda University Medical Center.

]]>
Thu, 31 May 2018 09:29:02 -0700
4264:34548 <![CDATA[Maximize your vision — webinar]]> The Living Whole Wellness Program will host a free live-streamed presentation on Wednesday, May 30, from 5:30–6 p.m. about healthy vision.

Learn practical tips and how cutting-edge technology can maximize your visual potential, not only now, but also for many decades to come. 

Viewers will be able to ask questions and interact live with featured speaker Michael Rauser, MD, director of the Loma Linda Eye Institute and chair of ophthalmology. The live presentation will be hosted by Olivia Moses, DrPH, CWHC, director of corporate health and wellness. 

The live stream will be available at Loma Linda University Health’s Facebook page or on the Wellness Live webpage.

Viewers who missed last month’s live broadcast on advance directives can view it on demand, along with numerous past presentations, in the Wellness Live archive. 

myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole/wellnesslive

For more information, call 909-651-4007.

]]>
Thu, 24 May 2018 10:17:50 -0700
4264:34546 <![CDATA[Honoring your foes — a devotional]]> By Randy Roberts 2 Samuel 2

Polarized is the order of the day. It doesn’t much matter where your look: the world, the country, the church — on every hand strident voices dominate. Extreme views prevail. Finger-pointing seems to have become the national pastime. In such an environment, foes multiply. And those who are foes attack and demonize each other, painting their opposition in the worst possible light.

And then we come to 2 Samuel 2. Can something written three thousand years ago speak into our current situation? Can a man who lived during that time speak a timely word of wisdom to us today?I think so …

First, two reminders. One, remember that King Saul, for an extended period of time, had been intent on doing away with David. David, Saul knew, was a threat to his kingly power, so he wanted him gone. Two, it was now Saul who was gone, dead and buried, killed in battle with the Philistines. And David has been elevated to the throne of Judah, with the rest of the tribes of Israel yet to come under his kingship. He is seeking to extend the reach of his throne to include the other tribes, when, in the midst of that process, he makes a discovery.

“When David was told that it was the men of Jabesh Gilead who had buried Saul, he sent messengers to them to say to them, ‘The Lord bless you for showing this kindness to Saul your master by burying him. May the Lord now show you kindness and faithfulness, and I too will show you the same favor because you have done this’”(2 Samuel 2:4b–6, TNIV). 

As would have been common at the time, the bodies of fallen enemy leaders would have been desecrated, treated with the ultimate disrespect. The men of Jabesh Gilead, at cost to themselves, no doubt, had stepped up and given Saul’s body an honorable burial. And now David — the man Saul had been trying to kill — wants to show them favor for that act of respect toward his foe!

What if we moderns were to conduct ourselves in such a manner? What if, when given the opportunity, we were to honorpeople with whom we disagree? What if we were to treat them with respect, with dignity? What if, rather than striking back, we were to offer a hand of friendship?

In fact, what if we were to live out the similar but very pointed directives of the apostle Paul, another ancient biblical figure with timely wisdom? He wrote: “Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse … Do not repay anyone evil for evil … If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone … Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:14, 17, 18, 21, TNIV).

Can you imagine how such an approach would change our relationships with one another? Can you imagine how surprised our “foes” would be if we responded in this fashion? Can you imagine how the love of Jesus would work to unify those who are currently so divided?

It’s worth a try … Today … In your circle.

—Randy Roberts, DMin, is vice president for spiritual life and mission at Loma Linda University Health.

 

]]>
Thu, 24 May 2018 10:17:18 -0700
4264:34547 <![CDATA[Reading day camp early bird price lasts through May 30]]> The School of Allied Health Professions department of communication sciences and disorders is holding an intensive phonological awareness and literacy day camp June 18 through June 29.

The program is designed for incoming kindergarten through third-grade students who are either having difficulty in beginning reading and language or who are at risk for difficulty with reading and language.

“Participants will have fun while focusing on the building blocks of reading: literature awareness, syllable awareness, rhyme awareness, segmenting and blending,” said Jennifer St. Clair, MS, assistant professor and director of clinical education for the department of communication sciences and disorders. 

The early-bird cost is $80 per child for the two-week-long camp if registered before May 30. Register online. Starting May 31, the price rises to $100 per child.

Morning sessions run from 9 a.m. to noon, with afternoon sessions taking place from 1 to 4 p.m.

For more information, e-mail jstclair@llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 24 May 2018 10:17:34 -0700
4264:34549 <![CDATA[Celebration of Life to encourage cancer survivors to live in full bloom]]> The Loma Linda University Cancer Center will host the 27th annual Celebration of Life on June 3 in the Centennial Complex. The lunch will celebrate those who have battled with cancer and the families and friends who have battled alongside them.

Mark Reeves, MD, PhD, director of the Loma Linda University Cancer Center, will share what the center is doing to advance the future of cancer care. Other speakers will include Judy Chatigny, MSN, executive director of Loma Linda University Cancer Center, and Carl Ricketts, MDiv, BCC, director of chaplain services for Loma Linda University Medical Center.

This free event is open to Loma Linda University Health students, staff and local community members who have been affected by cancer.

To register for this event, call 1-877-LLUMC-4U by Tuesday, May 29.

]]>
Thu, 24 May 2018 10:18:07 -0700
4264:34550 <![CDATA[April 2018 campus security report + summer travel tips]]> The Jeanne Clery Act of 2008 requires colleges and universities across the United States to publish interim reports on campus crime activities. Listed below are the crimes reported for Loma Linda University Health for the month of April 2018. The detailed report is available atLLUH Monthly Security Report.

LocationsNon-Violent CrimesViolent CrimesVehicle CrimesTrespassingArrests
LLU Medical Center 10 2 2 12 1
LLU Children's Hospital 1 0 0 0 0
Loma Linda University 3 0 5 6 0
Miscellaneous areas 3 2 0 11 2
Mountain View Plaza 0 0 0 3 0
Professional Plaza 0 0 0 0 0
Outpatient Rehab Center 0 0 0 0 0
East Campus 0 0 0 2 0
Faculty Medical Offices 0 0 0 0 0
Behavioral Medicine Center 0 0 0 1 0
Surgical Hospital 0 0 0 1 0
West campus (Club Center Drive/Caroline Street buildings) 0 0 1 7 0
San Bernardino campus 1 0 0 0 0
Beaumont/Banning 0 0 0 0 0
Murrieta 0 0 0 0 0

Security tips of the month: summer travel

As we near the end of the school year and summer approaches, many are making plans to travel both locally and internationally. The personal safety and security of you and your family can be challenging in another country or on the road. Below are a few security tips to stay safe.

  • Stop your home mail delivery or make arrangements to have someone clear out your mailbox at least three times a week. 
  • Email your itinerary to family and friends. Make sure someone knows where you are.
  • Keep valuables close or on your person at all times; use your front and not your back pocket to store cash, credit cards and identification.
  • Remember your medications. They should be transported in their original labeled container and stowed in your carry-on if traveling by air. 
  • Make copies or use your phone to photograph important travel documents such as passports, IDs, itineraries and prescriptions in case they should become lost or stolen.
  • Maintain situational awareness. Be aware of what’s happening around you. Keep your head up, make eye contact, keep children close and walk with confidence.
  • Trust your instincts to alert you when something is wrong.

Find additional travel information and warnings through:

How to contact Security Services

Loma Linda University Health encourages that all crimes be reported to the Department of Security Services. To report an emergency, in-progress crime occurring on campus, or past crime or incident, immediately contact the Security Control Center at 909-558-4320 or ext. 911 from on-campus phones. You may also use the blue-lighted emergency call boxes located throughout the campus and healthcare facilities. For non-emergency business, call 909-558-5419 or ext. 55419 from on-campus phones.

]]>
Thu, 24 May 2018 10:18:22 -0700
4264:34551 <![CDATA[Epic upgrade coming in October]]> The 2018 upgrade for Loma Linda University Health’s Epic electronic medical record system will bring refinements and new features when it goes live Oct. 21.

The Epic team is working hard to prepare for the upgrade, which will offer broadened mobile processing, new patient care and patient self-care tools, more direct access to key process management information and greater self-service reporting.

More details will be forthcoming over the summer and early fall. Questions? Email Epic2018Upgrade@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 24 May 2018 10:18:38 -0700
4264:34552 <![CDATA[Commute survey is mandatory and updated for 2018]]> The annual government-mandated South Coast Air Quality Management District commute survey is here, and there are important changes for 2018.

First, the survey is now completed through the Owl Portal. (Initial technical issues with the changeover to OWL have now been resolved.) Second, there is now one survey for employees of Loma Linda University, Medical Center, Children’s Hospital, East Campus, Surgical Hospital, Health Care, Shared Services and LLUHEC (LLIECHE). Prior to 2018, LLU was surveyed separately.

All employees of these entities should have received an enrollment email from Owl Portal on Friday, April 27. 

All employees are required to complete the survey — even those who may have telecommuted, worked only part of the week, were sick, or were on vacation during the week under survey (April 23–27). 

You can help Loma Linda University Health maintain or beat its average vehicle ridership number (AVR) of 1.22 persons per vehicle that arrives on campus. We are currently at a 1.10 AVR with those who have completed the survey thus far.

 The Rideshare Services department offers raffle prizes to randomly chosen individuals who complete the survey. In 2017, Karen from the School of Dentistry and Renee from the Medical Center Pharmacy both won 40-inch Vizio TVs.

Will you be this year’s winner?

If you have questions or concerns, please contact Rideshare Services at 909-651-3033 or ext. 53033, or rideshare@llu.edu.

 

]]>
Thu, 24 May 2018 10:18:53 -0700
4264:34553 <![CDATA[Trevor Wright — a great leader in healthcare, says Becker's Hospital Review ]]> Loma Linda University Health chief operating officer Trevor Wright, MHA, has been recognized as one of the 100 great leaders in healthcare for 2018 by Becker’s Hospital Review, a leading publication highlighting business, legal news and analysis for the hospital industry.

The list includes individuals who serve at the helm of large health systems and nationwide organizations, taking the lead in transforming healthcare in the U.S. It recognizes physicians, hospital and health system executives and healthcare company innovators. Becker’sprofiled individuals who work to improve the quality of care and solve the toughest problems in healthcare.

Loma Linda University Medical Center chief executive officer Kerry Heinrich, JD, said he is thrilled that Wright is being honored for the reputation of high-quality work that he has built.

“With so many changes in healthcare occurring, it takes an individual who is truly willing to immerse themselves in the field to lead a hospital system to success,” Heinrich said. “His dedication to this organization shows in the work he does.”

The Becker's Hospital Review editorial team accepted nominations and conducted an internal review process to select members of this year’s list. The list seeks to highlight the important roles of healthcare workers who impact their communities by working tirelessly to advance healthcare.

Wright said he is deeply honored to have been nominated and selected for this list of healthcare leaders. 

“Loma Linda University Health continues to open doors to new advances in healthcare and by doing so, advances the quality of care offered to patients,” he said. “I’m excited to continue working with our Loma Linda University Health leadership in bringing positive change to our communities.”

Prior to becoming chief operating officer, Wright served Loma Linda University Health as senior vice president and administrator of LLU Medical Center. As COO, he has responsibility for operational oversight of Loma Linda University Health’s six hospitals. He began this position in December 2015.

Wright has over 25 years of hospital operations experience and was also a consultant with The Studer Group. His previous healthcare administrative positions include service at Adventist Health System, Providence Health and Services, and Adventist Health.

An active member of the American College of Healthcare Executives, Wright brings significant expertise in fiscal leadership, strategic planning, business development and healthcare operations to his role as COO.

]]>
Thu, 24 May 2018 10:19:07 -0700
4264:34554 <![CDATA[Board appoints Michael Samardzija VP of research]]> The Loma Linda University Board of Trustees this week appointed Michael Samardzija, JD, PhD, as the organization’s vice president of research affairs, a move that expands his role from an associate vice president position. 

Samardzija, who joined Loma Linda University Health in 2016, has pushed for innovation and gaining greater publicity for the institution. Last year he established Loma Linda University Health’s new business incubator — n3eight — to form several companies, which will move innovation from the university’s labs to products into the marketplace.

Samardzija is an experienced life sciences intellectual property attorney who previously served as a partner at Dentons, the world’s largest law firm by number of lawyers. Among other posts, he also served as a partner at Bracewell & Giuliani, director of intellectual property at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, and as a postdoctoral fellow at the Bockus Research Institute, which was affiliated with the Department of Physiology at University of Pennsylvania. 

Samardzija holds a law degree from the University of San Diego School of Law, a PhD in physiology and a master’s degree in exercise physiology from Loma Linda University, and a bachelor’s degree in athletic training and sports medicine from Brooklyn College.

]]>
Thu, 24 May 2018 10:19:21 -0700
4264:34555 <![CDATA[Angela Lalas appointed CFO of Loma Linda University Health]]> Loma Linda University Health’s Board of Trustees this week appointed Angela Lalas, MBA, CPA, as the organization’s new CFO.

Lalas, who has served as senior vice president of finance since 2015, replaces former CFO Kevin Lang, who recently retired after nearly 14 years in the role.

In her post as senior vice president of finance, Lalas oversaw financial operations for the system’s six hospitals and Loma Linda University Shared Services. She previously served as vice president of finance for the system and director of the Loma Linda University Foundation. She joined Loma Linda University Health in 2006 as director of internal audit after working as a senior tax consultant for Deloitte.

“Angela has demonstrated world-class expertise as a finance professional, and we are so pleased to have her in this role as Loma Linda University Health grows to serve our communities in increasingly broader ways over the next few years,” said Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health.

Lalas was recognized for the past two years as a “Rising Star in Healthcare” and one among the “CFOs to Know in Healthcare” by Becker’s Hospital Review, and one of the 15 “Up and Comer Award” recipients by Modern Healthcarein 2017 — all leading publications highlighting business, legal news and analysis for the hospital industry.

She holds an MBA from Claremont Graduate University and a bachelor’s degree in accountancy from the Adventist University of the Philippines. She is married to Serafin T. Lalas, Jr., a child psychiatrist at Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center, and they have been blessed with two children, Anna Sophia and Serafin Alexander III.

]]>
Thu, 24 May 2018 10:19:37 -0700
4264:34442 <![CDATA[Mourning like God]]> By Dilys Brooks How beloved and gracious were Saul and Jonathan! They were together in life and in death. (2 Samuel 1:23)

King Saul and Jonathan are dead. This is the news that the disheveled Amalekite messenger shared with David in Ziklag. It was war season, and he and his men had just returned from fighting Amalekites in the Negev Desert. Israel was at war with the Philistines. The messenger is questioned to determine the credibility of his news. Can he be trusted?

The young man claims to have ended Saul’s life in a mercy killing. He presents David with the crown and armband that had belonged to the fallen leader of Israel. The crown and armband are real. David’s response is a deep lament. He tears his clothing, as do his companions. They weep loudly, fasting until evening as a community because Saul and Jonathan are dead.

I imagine the messenger must have been thoroughly confused. This was not the reception that he had expected. Everyone knew that David was anointed to be king and Saul had attempted to take David’s life on multiple occasions. The messenger must have wondered why there was rejoicing at this news.

At sunset, David sends for the young man and cross-examines him once more. In this round of questions, the presumptive king inquires, “How was it you were not afraid to put forth your hand to destroy the Lord’s anointed?” The messenger is judged and found guilty of taking the life of the king. This act shows that David would not and did not steal the kingdom. Instead, David continued to mourn the death of the King and Jonathan, and the countless others who died on Mount Gilboa defending the kingdom of Israel. 

Why is David in deep mourning when King Saul had sought to take his life on countless occasions? Grieving for Jonathan makes sense because of their friendship and covenants, but why mourn for Saul? Perhaps he mourns because he recognizes how much more they could have accomplished if Saul hadn’t been jealous. Maybe he mourns because he comprehends the consequences of war. Possibly he mourns because death steals life and leaves sorrow in its wake. 

From David, we learn that each of us must determine how we will respond when someone repeatedly treats us unkindly. We can retaliate or forgive. We also learn that trusting God to defend us or fight on our behalf is better than trying to do it ourselves. We learn the importance of mourning and acknowledging our pain in community. We are indeed invited to bear each other’s burdens (Galatians 6:2). Most importantly we learn to be careful to whom we listen.

I am determined to be like David, choosing to listen to the voice of God more than men. 

—Dilys Brooks, MDiv, is campus chaplain for Loma Linda University.

]]>
Thu, 17 May 2018 11:41:05 -0700
4264:34441 <![CDATA[National Bike to Work Day: Loma Linda University Health celebrates with prizes]]> National Bike to Work Day is coming Friday, and Loma Linda University Health will provide a way for cyclists to celebrate with a special raffle for a $25 Stater Bros gift card.

Visit the new website — a great source for commuting needs — at lluh.rideamigos.com/#/. By creating an account, members can start logging the days they bike to work to earn points redeemable for prizes and/or a generous $60 quarterly incentive. Contact Rideshare for further details.

As an added bonus, staff members who rode a bike to work today, Thursday, May 17th, can send a selfie on their bike to rideshare@llu.edu to be entered into a special raffle for a $25 Stater Bros gift card.

For more information on biking to work or our other rideshare incentives, contact the Rideshare department at extension 53033 or at rideshare@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 17 May 2018 11:40:50 -0700
4264:34440 <![CDATA[Nursing students celebrate the unit voted best for student experience ]]> Nursing students delivered dinner and an award to unit 4700 — which was voted as the best unit for student experience. The award and meal came during Nurses Week, May 6-12, as a special thank you to the nurses who provide hands-on experience and memorable experiences for Loma Linda University Nursing Students who rotate through the unit.

The mentorship provided by the nursing staff in unit 4700 — the Medical Intensive Care Unit — has been invaluable to the students, said Andreia Lofthouse, executive director of student & alumni relations at the school of nursing.

In addition to the best clinical rotation unit, students also celebrated the nurse voted preceptor of the year, Christina Biama. Biama is a nurse on unit 5300 — Acute Care Pediatrics.

“The heartfelt comments that were presented to the nurses that day were meaningful. Student nurses expressing gratitude to their mentors for the amazing experiences they shared is something we will not forget,” said Susan Markovich RN, MSN, CCRN, executive director of Critical Care & Comprehensive Stroke.

“It is moments such as this, recognition and expression of thanks that supports the amazing nurses we have.”

]]>
Thu, 17 May 2018 11:40:36 -0700
4264:34439 <![CDATA[Case Managers of Behavioral Medicine Center named winners]]> Case managers from Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center are celebrating their win after their selfie — submitted by Brianna Valdivia — won the selfie contest that was part of Loma Linda University Health celebrations of National Hospital Week.

Employees were invited to take selfies showing teamwork, and nearly 100 entries were submitted from departments across campus during National Hospital Week, May 6 to 12. Employees were then encouraged to vote on the picture they felt best represented the weeks theme. Valdivia‘s winning selfie — titled “Happy Nurses Feet” — illustrated the week’s theme of “employees’ commitment to teamwork”, showing the team’s closeness and cohesion.

 

]]>
Thu, 17 May 2018 11:40:26 -0700
4264:34438 <![CDATA[Loma Linda University to graduate nearly 1,500 students in eight ceremonies]]> A total of 1,489 students are preparing to graduate from Loma Linda University in eight ceremonies on three upcoming dates. Three of the university’s eight schools will hold services on Sunday, May 27. Students from the remaining five schools will graduate on Sunday, June 10, while the newest member of the university family, San Manuel Gateway College, will host graduation services on Thursday, June 14.

Here is an overview of 2018 commencement plans for the eight schools and for San Manuel Gateway College: 

School of Allied Health Professions 

This school graduates the largest number of students of any Loma Linda University school. This year, it will graduate 543 students in two separate commencement ceremonies at Drayson Center on Sunday, June 10 at 8 a.m. and at 10:30 a.m. Timothy J. Gillespie, DMin, lead pastor of the Crosswalk Church in Redlands, California, and assistant clinical professor at the School of Public Health, will deliver the commencement addresses on the topic, “The Hope of Beginnings.”

School of Behavioral Health 

The school will graduate 115 students this year in a joint ceremony with the School of Religion. The ceremony will be held Sunday, June 10, at 4 p.m. in Drayson Center. The commencement address will be delivered by Daniel R. Jackson, MA, president of the North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists, who will speak on the topic of, “Just Do It.”

School of Dentistry

The school will graduate 187 students this year on Sunday, May 27, at 5 p.m. on the campus mall. Kent Hansen, JD, LLD, general counsel for Loma Linda University Health and assistant professor of dental education services at the school, will deliver the commencement address. Hansen will speak on the topic, “Becoming a Beloved Professional.” 

School of Medicine

The school will graduate 192 students on Sunday, May 27, at 8:30 a.m. on the campus mall. The commencement address will be delivered by Nephtali R. Gomez, MD, director of undergraduate surgical education and assistant professor of surgery at the school. Gomez will speak on the topic of, “Doctors, Superheroes and the World of Tomorrow.”

School of Nursing

The school will graduate 205 students on Sunday, June 10, at 6 p.m. in Drayson Center. The commencement address will be delivered by Betty Ferrell, PhD, RN, director of nursing research and education and a professor at the City of Hope National Medical Center in Duarte, California. Ferrell will speak on the topic of “The Science, Art and Sacred Practice of Nursing.”

School of Pharmacy

The school will graduate 80 students on Sunday, May 27, at 1:30 p.m. on the campus mall. Joseph L. Kuti, PharmD, associate director of clinical and economic studies at the Center for Anti-Infective Research and Development at Hartford Hospital in Hartford, Connecticut, will deliver the commencement address. His topic is “Finding Your Balance.”

School of Public Health

The School of Public Health will graduate 120 students on Sunday, June 10, at 1:30 p.m. in Drayson Center. The commencement address will be delivered by Michael Kelly, II, MDiv, lead pastor of Mt. Rubidoux Seventh-day Adventist Church in Riverside, California. Kelly will speak on the topic of “What a Difference a Day Makes.” 

School of Religion

The school will graduate five students in a joint ceremony with the School of Behavioral Health. The ceremony will be held on Sunday, June 10, at 4 p.m. in Drayson Center. The commencement address will be delivered by Daniel R. Jackson, MA, president of the North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists, who will speak on the topic of, “Just Do It.” 

San Manuel Gateway College

San Manuel Gateway College will graduate 42 students on Thursday, June 14, at 6 p.m. on the campus mall of Loma Linda University Health.

Additional information about the 2018 graduation services for Loma Linda University Health is available online here.

]]>
Thu, 17 May 2018 11:39:54 -0700
4264:34390 <![CDATA[CEO's words in honor of National Hospital Week]]> By Kerry Heinrich Each day people come to our hospitals to seek healing. We represent hope and health to those who live near us, and to people around the world. 

We have faced some amazing challenges during the past year. The 2018 flu epidemic is just one example. We were tested daily as demand for our services reached record levels. National news media focused their attention on us, seeking answers to how we were addressing the crisis. Yet every day, I saw each of you renew your commitment to our patients and their families. And I was awed by your professionalism and skills, no matter what position you fill.

Loma Linda University Health works best when we work as a team. We are truly a community that provides treatment and comfort to the sick. We welcome new lives into the world. And each day, this amazing team provides hope or solace to people facing trying times. Miracles happen here every day. 

National Hospital Week is May 6–12, and this year we celebrate our employees’ commitment to teamwork. During this special week, we offer our deep gratitude to each of you — physicians, nurses, therapists, engineers, food service workers, housekeepers, volunteers and so many more. Your commitment to teamwork strengthens every aspect of this healing place. 

Thank you, thank you, thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you do. I know I speak for each member of our leadership team when I say that it’s a privilege and honor for us to be part of your team.

Please enjoy the short video below in honor of National Hospital Week.  

Best regards,

Kerry L. Heinrich, JD
Chief Executive Officer
Loma Linda University Medical Center

]]>
Wed, 09 May 2018 17:38:17 -0700
4264:34389 <![CDATA[Improve your life with help from Employee & Student Assistance Program]]> The Employee & Student Assistance Program is a free benefit to employees and students at Loma Linda University Health offering psychotherapy and related services. In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, read on to learn how the program may be able to help you.

Services include short-term counseling, assessments and referrals, and crisis intervention. The licensed or master’s level therapists on staff work with individuals on life concerns — whether personal, family, work-related or academic — to create plans for healthy transformation. 

The program can help with concerns and issues including stress, depression, grief and loss, eating disorders and many more.

Learn more at the Employee & Student Assistance Program’s website or by calling 909-558-6050.

]]>
Wed, 09 May 2018 17:38:04 -0700
4264:34388 <![CDATA[Do you have a colleague who inspires wholeness?]]> The Living Whole Wellness Program recognizes employees who demonstrate a commitment to their personal wellness and who inspire wellness in people around them through the annual Living Whole Honors. 

Employees are invited to nominate coworkers or colleagues who advocate for wellness on campus or who have made healthy behavior changes in their own lives.  

Nominations for the 2018 honors are now open through June 30. Learn more about the Living Whole Honors nominations on the Living Whole website.

]]>
Wed, 09 May 2018 17:37:51 -0700
4264:34387 <![CDATA[Discover the latest in earthquake science and early warning]]> Geophysicist Glenn Biasi, PhD, will speak at Loma Linda University Health on Wednesday, May 30, about current science regarding earthquakes. The free event runs from 2–3 p.m. at Wong Kerlee International Conference Center. 

Biasi, of the U.S. Geological Survey, will discuss local fault lines, developments in scientific knowledge about earthquakes and plans for early warning systems.

Please register for the free event at OWL Portal. To learn more, call Environmental Health and Safety at ext. 14019.

]]>
Wed, 09 May 2018 17:37:32 -0700
4264:34386 <![CDATA[Spots open for Brazil mission trip to the Amazon]]> Loma Linda University Students for International Service (SIMS) invites students and staff to participate in a two-week summer mission service trip to Brazil. The “Extreme Connections Brazil” trip, co-sponsored by ADRA Connections, runs July 6–22 and will be the largest Seventh-day Adventist collegiate mission trip to date. 

Trip participants will travel by boat to a remote village along the Amazon River to help complete construction of the Massauari Adventist Technical School — a new boarding school that will provide education and skills training to hundreds of young people from rural areas. 

To register or learn more about the trip, contact SIMS by calling 909-558-8089, emailing sims@llu.edu or visiting www.lluserve.com.

Need inspiration? View the promo video

]]>
Wed, 09 May 2018 17:37:21 -0700
4264:34385 <![CDATA[Running Scared — a devotional]]> By Kathy McMillan Now the Philistines fought against Israel; the Israelites fled before them …

–1 Samuel 31:1

What is it that grips your heart with fear? It may be something very tangible such as public speaking or spiders. Perhaps it’s harder to define, and your fears center around what might happen to you financially or relationally in the future. No matter the source of your fear, it can debilitate. 

Responses to fear vary according to the individual and the circumstances. We’ve all likely had experiences where we were afraid of an interaction with someone and went to great lengths to avoid them. Or maybe we didn’t participate in an event because we were afraid. Sometimes our fears cause us to be more aggressive or irritable; other times, we are paralyzed and unable to respond at all. 

At the end of 1 Samuel, we read of the final battle in Saul’s life, a king who ended his reign trusting in himself more than God. As he and his sons were fighting on Mount Gilboa, word got back to his people that things were not going well. The Philistines were in pursuit and the Israelites were terrified, fleeing from their enemies. They ran for their lives, not having time to grab anything of value. 

David knew about fear; he understood what it was like to have people pursuing him. He had run from Saul for years, but he steadfastly relied on God for guidance and wisdom. When he failed, he repented; when he doubted, he recounted the way God had led him in the past.

We face fear on a daily basis. As an institution in the midst of a gigantic building project, it is easy to get distracted or paralyzed by fear. For our students, stress may build as the end of the academic year draws closer. As staff, we face daily pressures to perform well and make a difference. For some, there may even be temptation to turn and run the other way.  

David offers a comforting antidote for fear: 

“When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise — in God I trust and am not afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?”

 –Psalm 56:3-4

—Kathy McMillan is director of Employee Spiritual Care at Loma Linda University Medical Center.

 

 

]]>
Wed, 09 May 2018 17:37:12 -0700
4264:34316 <![CDATA[Thank a nurse during Nurses Week]]> Loma Linda University Health is celebrating Nurses Week May 6 through 12 to thank our nurses for their lifesaving service to others. The 2018 celebration appropriately focuses on how nurses inspire, innovate and influence. 

Many patients choose to give back to honor their caregivers for going above and beyond to provide exceptional care. One way to give back is through the Healing Hands program, which makes it possible for grateful patients and families to easily honor their caregivers.

Since the Healing Hands grateful patient program began four years ago at Loma Linda University Health, patients have honored hundreds of medical staff members for their excellent care by making a donation to the organization in the caregiver’s name. Honorees range from healthcare providers to environmental health workers. All staff members make an impact.

Nurses Week provides an opportunity to recognize nurses —or any caregivers —who have exceeded expectations. Visit lluhealinghands.org to learn more. The website also reveals the full list of honorees whose life-changing care has inspired a donation in their honor.

]]>
Thu, 03 May 2018 11:59:06 -0700
4264:34307 <![CDATA[When Everything Goes Wrong — a devotional]]> By Terry Swenson 1 Samuel 30

In our journey through the life of David, we’ve seen the highs of his being anointed by the prophet, Samuel, to be the next king and his victory over the giant Goliath. We have seen his lows of running for his life from the vengeful King Saul. David, the national hero of the battle between Israel and Philistia, is now a fugitive and exile living in Philistia under the tentative mercy of his enemies. 

Things are looking dark for David. 

They are about to get darker. 

In 1 Samuel 30, we reconnect with the events of David’s life. David and his band of warriors had just been told to return to their homes because the Philistine generals didn’t trust them to fight alongside them. After a three-day journey, David and his band return to their refugee camp in Ziklag, but the town is gone. Instead of their waving wives and dancing children, they were greeted by destruction, devastation and charred remains. No loved ones. No friends. Just the ashes of their homes and dreams in the dust. The last thing David had to hold on to was now about to turn on him to destroy him. His men, bitter with pain and grief, were talking about stoning him to death.

Has your life ever looked like “Ziklag”? Have your dreams dissolved before your eyes? Have you lost a loved one or the love of your life? Does it seem like everything that could go wrong in your life has done just that? What have you done in response? What did David do in response? Well, he didn’t run for his life. He didn’t draw his sword to fight his men. David didn’t despair and doubt God and all the promises that God had made to him. 

What did David do? “But David found strength in the Lord his God.” (1 Samuel 30:6)

And what did that do for David? It gave him hope. God hadn’t let him down before and wouldn’t let him down now. It gave him courage. If God could empower him to take down a giant, he could depend on God to empower him to face this “giant” problem in his life. It gave him the ability to act on his faith in God’s love and faithfulness. He rallied his men to chase the Amalekites and — though vastly outnumbered — totally defeated them and recovered their loved ones andall of the plunder.

“Nothing was missing: small or great, son or daughter, nor anything else that had been taken. David brought everything back.” (1 Samuel 30:19)

Look past your pain. Look past your problems. Listen to the stories of how God acts. Re-tell the stories of how God has blessed and led you in the past. 

Listen to the promises of God to your heart. And believe. He willsee you through! He willact on your behalf! He is faithful! And He loves you!

—Terry Swenson, DMin, is director of University Spiritual Care.

]]>
Thu, 03 May 2018 11:28:47 -0700
4264:34314 <![CDATA[Innovative nurses like Erin Hoch create solutions to common problems]]> The 2018 celebration of Nurses Week at Loma Linda University Health, May 6–12, focuses on how nurses inspire, innovate and influence. Erin Hoch, a nurse in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) at Loma Linda University Children's Hospital, exemplifies these qualities — especially innovation.

Hoch got her start in nursing at Children’s Hospital more than 12 years ago, when she was hired into the nursing residency program. She now has experience in the pediatric intermediate ICU, nursing research and the NICU. 

Last September, Hoch said she found herself thinking about the feeding process and how it could be more efficient, less wasteful and better for bonding. 

“The tiniest of our patients at Children’s Hospital need a specific amount of milk each feeding,” Hoch said. “But often, the babies aren’t ready to take an entire bottle. They tire out and need enteral feedings to get the milk they need.”

At that point, the nurse has to take a syringe, draw out the leftover milk from the bottle, and hook up the syringe to a machine that pumps the milk into the child’s nasogastric (NG) tube.

The process is time-consuming and costly, because each feeding requires not just the bottle with a nipple, but the syringe and tubing as well. In addition, the process can waste precious milk that the baby’s mother has pumped.

“I couldn’t help but wonder if there was a more efficient way to provide these feedings, and after some sleepless nights at home, I came up with an idea,” Hoch said. 

Hoch’s new process will allow bottles to be converted to a container that delivers the food to the NG tube. It will not only save costs, but will allow a parent who is feeding their baby uninterrupted bonding time. With this new invention, the feeder will be able to change the nipple out and attach it to the NG, allowing a gravity-fed system of feeding. 

Hoch’s manager encouraged her to talk to Loma Linda University Health’s n³eight department — an innovative center designed to take research breakthroughs from Loma Linda University Health to the patient bedside. Erik Gosink, manager of Technology Transfer at the center, worked with Hoch to help her obtain a patent lawyer. A prototype was built, and the idea was shared with a manufacturer who will be making a decision in the next few weeks.  

Hoch, just one of the many innovative nurses at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital, encourages her colleagues on a daily basis, saying, “If you have a thought, don’t just leave it as a thought. Do something about it.”

]]>
Thu, 03 May 2018 11:53:35 -0700
4264:34311 <![CDATA[Activities will kick off Sunday for Hospital Week]]> Loma Linda University Health will celebrate National Hospital Week from Sunday, May 6, through Saturday, May 12. Events and activities are scheduled throughout the week to create a spirit of teamwork and celebrate our employees for their dedication to those we serve. 

Learn more in the flyer below or visit the Hospital Week page on One Portal

]]>
Thu, 03 May 2018 11:44:02 -0700
4264:34308 <![CDATA[Manage your timecard on the go]]> Timecard management is now available via mobile for API users. The app, “Centricity Workforce” can be downloaded from the Apple iOS App Store or Google Play.

Visit the One Portal for the full details and instructions about the API mobile app for both employees and managers.

]]>
Thu, 03 May 2018 11:31:10 -0700
4264:34304 <![CDATA[Preventing suicide at Loma Linda University Health]]> By Jana Boyd, director of Employee & Student Assistance Program Suicide is a topic that is hard to talk about but can directly impact our lives in heartbreaking ways. The statistics on the rates of suicides in the United States are sobering. In 2016, an American died of suicide every 12.3 minutes, with over one million attempts annually. Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States.*

We live and work in a stressful environment where both employees and students are dealing with a lot of expectations and encountering tragedies and suffering on a daily basis. With the additional stressors that we may be experiencing in our home lives, our mental health can be vulnerable. 

During the month of May, which is Mental Health Awareness Month, we are encouraged to take stock of our own mental health as well as be aware of how those we interact with may be doing. 

Suicide is 100 percent preventable and the most important protective factors are connection and support. Are we paying attention to ourselves and reaching out for help when we need it? Are we noticing how those around us are doing and offering connection and support? Do we even know what to look for and how to talk about suicide with those who may be at risk? Do we know what resources are available?

What to watch for

First of all, how do we know if ourselves or others may be at risk for suicide or depression? There are several things to watch for, including: 

  1. Changes in mood or behavior — more angry, anxious, withdrawn, reckless
  2. Feeling hopeless, desperate, trapped
  3. Thinking about wanting to die
  4. Missing work or school frequently
  5. Reporting increased stress
  6. Increased drug or alcohol use

Any significant changes in functioning or behavior are signs that tend to indicate that the person is experiencing distress and would likely benefit from connection and support.

How to talk about it

It is important to ask questions directly if you have concerns because you have noticed some of the signs listed above. A good example of how to open the discussion is: “I have noticed you have been feeling hopeless a lot lately (give examples of what you have observed). Sometimes when people are feeling this way they think about committing suicide. I wonder if you have been thinking about suicide?”

You will not be putting an idea into someone’s head by talking directly about suicide, and usually if someone has had suicidal thoughts it is a relief to be able to talk about it. If the person admits to these thoughts, the immediate response should be “Thank you,” closely followed by “We will figure this out together. I have some ideas that can help.”

Do not ask questions in a way that indicate you want “no” as an answer, such as: “You aren’t thinking of hurting yourself, are you?” or “You’re not thinking about doing something stupid, are you?” Also don’t promise to keep anything a secret. A person’s life is more important than keeping secrets or not wanting to upset them. 

What to do next

Once a person is talking about their suicidal thoughts, it is important to develop a plan with them. First assess whether they have a specific plan of how they would kill themselves and whether they have the means to do so (“How have you thought of killing yourself?” “Do you have any weapons or prescription medications in the house?”). Next, ask if they have a support system to reach out to if they become actively suicidal (“Is there someone you could talk to if you were actively suicidal?”).

Discourage them from using alcohol or drugs, as this can exacerbate the likelihood of committing suicide. And finally, encourage them to seek professional help. A great place for both employees and students to start seeking help is with the Employee & Student Assistance Program (909-558-6050, or ext. 66050). The team can provide free and confidential emergency assessment and interventions and ongoing support to help in the recovery process from depression and suicidal thoughts. Another important resource is the National Suicide Prevention Hotline (1-800-273-8255), which is available 24/7.

Additional resources

There are a number of online and app-based resources available including: 

-      SAMHSA’s Suicide Safe App (store.samhsa.gov/apps/suicidesafe/)

  • Free app designed for healthcare providers on how to talk with patients who may be suicidal.
  • Resources for locating treatment options and filtering by type/distance for referrals.

-      Virtual Hope Box App (available for both Apple iOS and Android)

  • Provides help with emotional regulation and coping with stress via personalized supportive audio, video, pictures, games, mindfulness exercises, positive messages, activity planning and other tools.

-      Suicide Prevention Awareness Website (www.suicideispreventable.org)

  • Guidance on what to look for, how to ask questions and provide help.

Besides providing direct support, the Employee & Student Assistance Program is also able to provide on-site trainings for staff on suicide prevention. Feel free to call to schedule a training in your department (909-558-6050, or ext. 66050).

We have the capacity to ensure that suicide never happens again in our community. By paying attention to our own mental health and the mental health of those around us, by reaching out to each other and seeking and offering support and connection, we can attain this goal of never losing one of our own to suicide again.

Jana Boyd, PhD, LMFT, is director of the Employee & Student Assistance Program at Loma Linda University Health. 

*Reference

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) (2016). “Suicide statistics.” Retrieved from: afsp.org/about-suicide/suicide-statistics.  

]]>
Thu, 03 May 2018 11:19:07 -0700
4264:34302 <![CDATA[Notes from the President — A Moment of Pride ]]> By Richard Hart, MD, DrPH  

 
May 2018
A Moment of Pride

“Richard

Two new programs are yielding big results in fulfilling human need, writes Dr. Richard Hart

I know I just wrote about humility, so please forgive me for having a moment of pride. Or perhaps I can call it a sense of satisfaction, or mission accomplished. It happened twice this past week, and both times caused me to pause, reflect and recognize, as we too often fail to do, on the results of plans laid years ago and now bearing fruit.

I was late entering the large classroom on the third floor of our new San Bernardino campus. The room was nearly full as I quickly found a seat on the front row as the presentation continued. Four young ladies were presenting a case at our monthly Community Grand Rounds. What made this so special as I listened were the presenters — Carmaila Gozo is an RN case manager; Jessica Sanchez is a behavioral health clinician; Silvia Duarte is a care coordinator; and Alejandra Morales Martinez is a patient navigator/community health worker and a recent graduate from our San Manuel Gateway College. Our clinical pharmacist, LaDonna Oelschlaeger, could not be there, but was involved as well. Our residents and faculty physicians were sitting on the front row listening to this case presentation, rather than their usual role of presenting the case.   

They were talking about a 59-year-old patient they were all involved with — José, who had advanced diabetes, had now gone blind and was being gradually abandoned by his family and community. He had slipped into depression and was failing to take his medications or make his appointments. Their presentation was aided by their PowerPoint slides — how they were doing home visits, making sure he came to his appointments, monitoring that he took his insulin appropriately, and giving him hope for the future.  

Then they brought José forward, who had been quietly sitting in the corner of the room. He was guided to a seat and told his own story in Spanish. He shared how these “señoritas,” as he called them, had given him new hope. The highlight for me was his comment that he hoped once again to get a job and be productive.  

This is interprofessional education at its best and what we had always hoped and planned for at the San Bernardino campus. This is both vertical and horizontal integration, covering all health professional disciplines horizontally, and three different levels of education vertically — residents, professional students and certificate students. Each was learning from the others and the patients were clearly benefitting. What a glorious moment! Enjoy a short video of one of our San Manuel Gateway College student’s personal stories at youtu.be/FicZm8zYpAM.

Edilma-tells-her-story

The second moment of satisfaction was the simple signing of 15 diplomas — but these were special. Over 20 years ago, I was contacted by a surgeon, David Thompson, who worked for an evangelical mission hospital in Gabon, Africa. Dave had a common story of gradually being overwhelmed by the surgical load at his hospital. He had conceived of an idea to train surgeons in Africa at the larger mission hospitals and had come to Loma Linda University Health asking if we could provide the academic credentials for this program. Training fully qualified Christian surgeons in a full five-year residency program on the African continent was very appealing, as we recognize that unmet surgical needs are a major crisis in many areas of the world. 

After some consideration, Loma Linda University agreed to become the academic partner in this interdenominational effort, now called the Pan-African Academy of Christian Surgeons (PAACS). There are now 10 large mission hospitals across Africa with these training programs, including our own Malamulo Adventist Hospital in Malawi. PAACS has set a goal of training 100 Christian surgeons by the year 2020 and is well on the way to surpass that goal. 

“PAACS-logo”

We send out a team of our own surgeons from Loma Linda University Health every other year to visit each site and validate the quality of education they are providing. It is impressive. They have now graduated over 40 surgeons who have returned to their respective mission hospitals and are providing top-level care in some of the most basic settings. It was my privilege last week to sign 15 more diplomas of new PAACS grads, all with typical African names I enjoyed trying to sort by language and country. The amazing part of this story is that all graduates over the past 20 years are still working in Africa, defying years of “brain drain” of highly trained professionals leaving the continent.

So two simple events, listening to a Community Grand Rounds and signing diplomas, but both representing long-term planning and investments in causes that are right. It just made me pause and feel good!    

“Richard

 

 

 

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

Vision 2020 – The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow

]]>
Thu, 03 May 2018 11:06:06 -0700
4264:34217 <![CDATA[Discover the latest in treatment, prevention and rehabilitation at 2018 Stroke Symposium]]> As part of Stroke Awareness Month, Loma Linda University Medical Center’s Stroke Center invites healthcare providers to the 2018 Stroke Symposium on Friday, May 18. 

Earn 6 CE credits or 6.75 CME credits while learning about the rapidly evolving science and technology of stroke care from the experts at our Joint Commission accredited Comprehensive Stroke Center. 

Download the flyer below for the full conference details and agenda. 

]]>
Wed, 25 Apr 2018 17:58:53 -0700
4264:34222 <![CDATA[Be heard; share feedback on your employee experience]]> Submitting feedback about your employee experience is easier than ever with the extension of the “You Talked, We Listened ... together we value” initiative to One Portal. 

This new feature builds on the work Human Resource Management implemented in 2016 with the creation of several Employee Engagement Committees representing the hospitals, clinics and university, leading to valuable ideas and suggestions about enhancing the employee experience.

Now, all employees are invited to submit their feedback via the online form on One Portal.

The Employee Engagement Committees will continue to meet and discuss ongoing improvement of the employee experience, using suggestions voiced from employees, who are the foundation of Loma Linda University Health. 

For updates and changes based on employee feedback, look for announcements with the icon “You talked, we listened … together we value.”

]]>
Wed, 25 Apr 2018 18:00:44 -0700
4264:34221 <![CDATA[Support mental health through 'Stand Up to Stigma' 5K ]]> The “Stand Up to Stigma” 5K, sponsored by the Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center, will let runners and walkers of all ages show their support for those dealing with mental health issues, and raise their awareness of available mental health services. This second annual race is scheduled for Sunday, May 20, at 7:45 a.m. Registration and starting line will be across the street from the Behavioral Medicine Center, at 1686 Barton Road in Redlands.

Race entry fees and sponsorships will aid in the construction of playground facilities for the Behavioral Medicine Center’s youth patients, a part of Vision 2020 – The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow. Registration fees include a goodie bag, runner’s bib and a t-shirt (shirt limited to first 500 entries). Racers will also enjoy a “Post Race Bash” featuring lunch, refreshments, photo booth and mental health information.

“We want to raise awareness of issues surrounding mental health,” said Edward Field, MBA, vice president of the Behavioral Medicine Center. “We have found there is a lot of stigma surrounding mental health, so people are nervous to talk about it. Many find it’s easier to talk about heart disease or cancer. The disease of mental illness is no different. It’s all part of healthcare.”

Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center has provided a full spectrum of mental health services for more than 25 years. The center’s services and programs cover issues such as substance use, eating disorders, anxiety and depression, for all ages, ranging from children to senior adults. 

May is national Mental Health Month, a time when events like the 5K help spread the word that mental health is something everyone should care about. One in five adults and children experience a mental illness at some point in their lifetime. More than 16 million American adults live with major depression. 

Join Loma Linda University Health and runners from throughout the Inland Empire to stand up to the stigma that surrounds mental illness. Race entry fees are $15 per person, $10 for students, with ages 7 and under free. Enter online until May 20 at llubmc.org/StandUp. Registration is also available onsite beginning at 7 a.m. on race day. 

For information about the range of services available at the Behavioral Medicine Center, go to llubmc.org.

]]>
Wed, 25 Apr 2018 18:00:26 -0700
4264:34220 <![CDATA[March 2018 campus security report]]>  

The Jeanne Clery Act of 2008 requires colleges and universities across the United States to publish interim reports on campus crime activities. Listed below are the crimes reported for Loma Linda University Health for the month of March 2018. 

  

LocationsNon-Violent CrimesViolent CrimesVehicle CrimesTrespassingArrests
LLU Medical Center 7 0 0 11 0
LLU Children's Hospital 1 0 0 0 0
Loma Linda University 5 1 0 7 0
Miscellaneous areas 0 0 0 17 0
Mountain View Plaza 0 0 0 2 0
Professional Plaza 0 0 0 0 0
Outpatient Rehab Center 0 0 0 0 0
East Campus 2 0 0 1 1
Faculty Medical Offices 0 0 1 0 0
Behavioral Medicine Center 0 0 0 1 0
Surgical Hospital 0 0 0 1 0
West campus (Club Center Drive/Caroline Street buildings) 1 0 0 4 1
San Bernardino campus 1 0 0 0 0
Beaumont/Banning 0 0 0 0 0
Murrieta 1 0 1 0 0

 

Tips of the month: prevent thefts from your motor vehicle

  • Roll up windows and lock all doors.
  • Park in well-lit areas.
  • Always be aware of the area you are parking in.
  • Hide all valuables out of view. If you can see them from outside the vehicle, so can thieves.
  • The trunk of your car is a great spot to place valuables before you arrive at your destination.

How to contact Security Services

Loma Linda University Health encourages that all crimes be reported to the Department of Security Services. To report an emergency, in-progress crime occurring on campus, or past crime or incident, immediately contact the Security Control Center at 909-558-4320 or ext. 9-1-1 from on-campus phones. You may also use the blue-lighted emergency call boxes located throughout the campus and healthcare facilities. For non-emergency business, call 909-558-5419 or ext. 55419 from on-campus phones.

]]>
Wed, 25 Apr 2018 18:00:08 -0700
4264:34219 <![CDATA[Get a running start on annual compliance training]]> The 2018 annual compliance training period for employees and physicians of all Loma Linda University Health entities is now open. 

Look for emails from OwlPortal@llu.edu containing links to your individual required courses, or log on directly to ceonline.llu.edu

This year’s training period runs through the deadline of Oct. 31, 2018 (for residents, the deadline is June 30).

Download the memorandum below for full details.

]]>
Wed, 25 Apr 2018 17:59:56 -0700
4264:34218 <![CDATA[Better your financial wellness using free tools]]> The Living Whole Wellness Program provides all employees with the opportunity to join Dave Ramsey’s online SmartDollar program free of charge, and right now is the time to use SmartDollar to best manage your tax refund. 

The SmartDollar employee benefit provides a more than $100 valued tool at no cost to employees and spouses.

SmartDollar uses motivating content, budgeting tools and expert advice to help employees get out of debt, create and follow a spending plan, and save for future needs such as retirement.

Learn more: myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole/financialwellness/

]]>
Wed, 25 Apr 2018 17:59:18 -0700
4264:34216 <![CDATA[Join in National Day of Prayer on May 3]]> Loma Linda University Health will join the country in petitioning and seeking God on Thursday, May 3, for National Day of Prayer. 

All are welcome and invited to the following events:

 

]]>
Wed, 25 Apr 2018 17:58:34 -0700
4264:34215 <![CDATA[The Chase — a devotional]]> By Carla Gober-Park I Samuel 29 

Do you like being chased? Personally, I hate it. The game of tag is not my favorite. Though I can run fast, the feeling of being chased causes my heart to rush into my throat where it does not belong. You know the feeling. You’ve experienced it in dreams. Running, running, running. Then waking in a sweat, assuring yourself that everything is OK. But what if it isn’t? What if the chase is real? Then what? 

I experienced it once when I was a child. All four of us were traveling at night and my mother was driving while my father slept, seat laid back. An unknown vehicle followed behind, too consistently and too close for comfort. “Honey, wake up!” My mother sounded afraid. My father woke up and sized the situation immediately. “They think you are alone and are taking advantage of that,” he stated, looking into the side mirror. “Stay steady,” he warned, “and don’t let them get in front of you.” My sister and I stared wide-eyed from the backseat. Who would help us in the middle of the night on this deserted road? Would we be OK? My heartrate increased, then pounded so loud I could hear the beat. Boom. Boom. Boom.

“There! Pull off the road under that light at the gas station so they can see me!” My commander father was sure and calm. 

The vehicle behind us slowed, pulled to the right side of our car, saw my father, then sped off. Ba-boom. Ba-boom. Ba-boom. My heart beat faster as the danger of the situation came into full view. The vehicle really was chasing us! 

This lasted only minutes. Imagine being chased for longer. 

David had been running from Saul for a long time — from the time Saul placed him over the army after killing Goliath (1 Samuel 18:5-8). The women shouldn’t have sung the song they sang: “Saul has killed his thousands, and David his ten thousands.” After that little song, there was no going back. “Saul was very angry” (1 Samuel 18:8). The chase was on.

David becomes tired of running from Saul and seeks refuge among his enemies, the Philistines. And by doing this, David gets himself into a real pickle. He earns their trust, promises to join them in battle, and then marches valiantly at the rear of their army. Marching with the Philistines against the Israelites! He is about to fight in the very battle in which Saul and his son Jonathan will both die.

King Achish, the Philistine king, trusts David and truly believes David has switched sides. 

Meanwhile, Saul temporarily gives up the chase until a medium tells him that the kingdom will be “torn” out of his hand and given to David. Saul heads out to battle again. He has been so obsessed with killing David that he leaves his own territory weak. 

Everybody is in the wrong place.

David is aligned with the enemy, and Saul is about to die from his own sword in battle. King Achish is, well, naive.

Nobody is thinking straight except the commanders of the Philistine army. They can’t believe King Achish is so foolish and trusting, finding “no fault in him [David] ...” No fault? This is the man who killed Goliath! 

“Send him back! ... Is this not David, of whom they sing to one another in dances, ‘Saul has killed his thousands, and David his ten thousands’?”

There’s that song again. And it doesn’t help this situation any more than it helped the first one. 

The Philistine commanders see the whole situation as crazy and refuse to let David fight with them. They force King Achish to send David back to Ziklag, land given to him by King Achish. 

The moral of this story? The Philistines prevent David from fighting against his own people. 

His enemies protect David … from himself.

Have you been here? In this place where everything seems crazy and you have forgotten just whose side you are on or what you should do next? And just as you are about to make the biggest misstep of your life, some annoying person demands that you get back to Ziklag?

Sometimes you think it is too late. You have gone too far. 

Not true. 

Turn back. 

Go home where you belong.

The chase is over.

—Carla Gober-Park, PhD, is assistant vice president for Spiritual Life and Mission at Loma Linda University Health, as well as director of the Center for Spiritual Life and Wholeness.

 

 

]]>
Wed, 25 Apr 2018 17:58:11 -0700
4264:34158 <![CDATA[April Wellness Live Webinar: Advance Directives — The Best Gift You Can Give Your Family ]]> The Living Whole Wellness Program is hosting a free live-streamed presentation on advance directives from 5:30 p.m.-6 p.m. on Wednesday, April 25 at myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole/wellnesslive/. Tune in to learn why having a conversation with your loved ones and completing an advance directive is important to ensure you get the type of care you desire when it matters most.

Viewers will be able to ask questions and interact live with featured speaker Gina Mohr, MD.

The live stream will be available at LLUH’s Facebook page or on myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole/wellnesslive.

For more information, call 909-651-4007. 

Viewers who missed last month’s live broadcast on Diet & Cancer Risk in the Adventist Health Study – 2 can view it on demand, along with numerous past presentations, in the Wellness Live archive. 

myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole/wellnesslive/

]]>
Wed, 18 Apr 2018 16:54:54 -0700
4264:34160 <![CDATA[Social Security 101: maximize your benefits]]> Employees can learn about Social Security benefits during “Social Security 101: everything you wanted to know,” a free workshop for Loma Linda University Health faculty and staff presented by the Social Security Administration.

The following sessions will take place for employees of any entity to choose from:

• Tuesday, May 1 at LLU Children’s Hospital room 1832, 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

• Friday, May 4 at Coleman Pavilion room 11121R, 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m., 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. or 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

The workshops will be led by Teresa Campbell, California inland area public affairs specialist for the Social Security Administration. She has worked with the agency for more than 25 years in both technical and supervisory roles.

During the workshops, which are offered to Loma Linda University Health employees at no charge, participants will learn:

  • When they will be eligible to receive retirement benefits
  • How early retirement will affect their benefits
  • Whether they qualify for disability, survivors or spouse benefits
  • How to maximize their benefits
  • When to file for Medicare
  • The future of Social Security

Prior to attending the workshop, employees should create a My Social Security account and print out their Social Security Statement

No reservations are required for the workshops, but space is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

To learn more, email Laura Reddix in Human Resource Management at LReddix@llu.edu.

]]>
Wed, 18 Apr 2018 16:57:00 -0700
4264:34163 <![CDATA[Institute for Community Partnerships to examine Human Trafficking in May 1 forum]]> The Institute for Community Partnerships at Loma Linda University Health and the World Affairs Council Inland Southern California will host an event to understand and help end human trafficking in our community.

"Human Trafficking: Understanding & Ending Trafficking in Our Community," will be held at 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, May 1, in the Small Amphitheater in Centennial Complex, 24760 Stewart Street, Loma Linda.

The presentation will be led by the Open Door advocacy group and will be followed by a panel discussion led by Dr. Richard Hart, president of Loma Linda University Health, along with local law enforcement representatives, Loma Linda University students, healthcare professionals and community advocates.

Human Trafficking is a form modern-day slavery, where people profit from the control and sexual exploitation of others — and it’s happening in our community. 

For more information about the event, contact the Institute for Community Partnerships by calling 909-558-7754 or emailing caps@llu.edu.

]]>
Wed, 18 Apr 2018 16:59:36 -0700
4264:34164 <![CDATA[Loma Linda University Medical Center Comprehensive Epilepsy Center re-accredited highest designation by the NAEC]]> Loma Linda University Medical Center Comprehensive Epilepsy Center has been re-accredited by the National Association of Epilepsy Centers (NAEC) as a level 4 epilepsy center, which is the highest-level designation from the NAEC.

Level 4 epilepsy centers have the professional expertise and facilities to provide the highest level of medical and surgical evaluation and treatment for patients with complex epilepsy.

The Comprehensive Epilepsy Center at LLUMC is the leading center for epilepsy care in Southeastern California and is the only institution in the Inland Empire with the level 4 designation.

The center offers a full spectrum of diagnostic services, including inpatient video EEG monitoring, outpatient EEG, MRI, PET, ictal spect and neuropsychological testing. Treatment plans are tailored to the needs of individual patients and may include expert medication management, surgical therapy and collaboration with behavioral health professionals.

"This re-accreditation is the result of the continued hard work of a highly dedicated team of healthcare professionals and I am very excited that we are able to offer patients of all ages a wide range of treatment options to treat their seizures,” said Travis Losey, MD, medical director for adult neurology at the Comprehensive Epilepsy Center.

Since 2006, the Comprehensive Epilepsy Center has been recognized by the NAEC for its comprehensive epilepsy care as a level 4 center. 

The NAEC accreditation process is designed to define and incentivize standards of care for comprehensive epilepsy care and serve as an avenue to collect data on the types and volume of services provided by epilepsy centers. 

For more information on Loma Linda University Medical Center Comprehensive Epilepsy Center visit, lluh.org/epilepsycenter or call 909-558-2880.

]]>
Wed, 18 Apr 2018 17:00:41 -0700
4264:34166 <![CDATA[New healthcare website launched]]> Loma Linda University Health's newly redesigned healthcare website launched Tuesday at lluh.org. The site is centered on helping patients and families find what they’re looking for as quickly and conveniently as possible. 

Patients can access what they need online through the website's enhanced function, content and design. The website provides easy navigation for Loma Linda University Health’s network of six hospital campuses, more than 800 physicians, dozens of outpatient clinics, and key service areas including behavioral health, heart and vascular, cancer care, neurology, neurosurgery, orthopedics, primary care, transplant and rehabilitation.

“Today’s healthcare consumers are using digital technology to search for and access care. The new website design was intentionally done with this in mind, enabling consumers to easily find what they need,” said Heather Valentine, assistant vice president of marketing and digital strategy. 

“This is a great step forward that we will continue to build upon with enhancements such as customized online scheduling, blog and social media features, and further integration with our MyChart patient portal,” she added. 

The site is mobile-friendly and responsive to viewing on various phones, tablets and devices. Navigation is simple for the site’s updated content with a standardized look and feel. The new healthcare website is part of the organization's visual rebrand of its web presence and follows a redesign of its academic sites at llu.edu last fall.

Healthcare practitioners at Loma Linda University Health are excited about how the new web experience serves patients.

“The site matches who we are and will connect our patients to the care they need,” said David Dai, PT, MBA, executive director of rehabilitation services.

Tell us what you think

What do you think about the new website? Visit the new lluh.org and take a brief survey about the experience.

]]>
Wed, 18 Apr 2018 17:02:15 -0700
4264:34122 <![CDATA[Behavioral Medicine Center now 3rd hospital at Loma Linda University Health holding elite Stage 7 status for electronic medical records]]> The industry’s highest level of achievement for maximizing electronic medical record usage to improve patient care is now held by Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center. 

The recognition makes Behavioral Medicine Center part of a select group of just 6.4 percent of U.S. hospitals holding the pinnacle Stage 7 designation of the inpatient Electronic Medical Record Adoption Model. The designation comes from HIMSS Analytics.

Also among the 6.4 percent nationwide are LLU Children’s Hospital and LLU Medical Center, the latter of which also includes the Surgical Hospital and East Campus locations.

“Our patients benefit with our advanced use of technology and minimal dependence on paper,” said Brenda Taylor, MS, RHIA, CCS, executive director of Health Information Management. “This effort across organizations nationwide is demonstrating improved patient outcomes, patient safety and operational efficiencies.”

Loma Linda University Health is also focusing on an achieving HIMSS Stage 7 recognition for outpatient clinics later this year, to be followed next year with securing inpatient Stage 7 for LLU Medical Center – Murrieta.

]]>
Thu, 12 Apr 2018 11:06:18 -0700
4264:34121 <![CDATA[PossAbilities & Kids Triathlon designed for individuals of all ages and abilities]]> Inland Empire athletes of all ages and abilities are invited to participate in the 16th annual PossAbilities & Kids Triathlon, which will be held at 7 a.m. on Sunday, April 29, at Drayson Center.

In addition to the two triathlons — one each for adults and children — the event will also feature a 5K run and lots of fun activities and games.

For more information, read the full story at news.llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 12 Apr 2018 11:05:16 -0700
4264:34123 <![CDATA[Thank our volunteers for making a difference]]> Volunteers help make Loma Linda University Health the great organization that it is, and Volunteer Recognition Week, April 16–20, provides an opportunity to thank them for their help.

In 2017, volunteers donated more than 151,000 hours of time serving in areas including the Emergency Department, Child Life Services, the Gift Shop, patient units and Hospitality Services. They also assist with clerical duties and research.

The testimonies below describe the impact made by volunteers at Loma Linda University Health. 

Learn more: Volunteer Services

 

]]>
Thu, 12 Apr 2018 11:07:41 -0700
4264:34120 <![CDATA[Panel to address primary healthcare shortage in Inland Empire ]]> You are invited to the free panel discussion “Standing in the Gap: Mitigating the Primary Healthcare Shortage in Southern California,” an event on Monday, April 16, at 6 p.m. featuring experts in healthcare delivery, education and policy who will address how their organizations are working to mitigate the local primary healthcare shortage and consider ways to build upon each other’s work.

Meet and join the dialogue with the panel of experts:

• Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health
• Eileen Fry-Bowers, PhD, JD, RN, CPNP-PC, associate professor at University of San Diego
• Tyler Jung, MD, chief medical officer for Molina Healthcare of California
• Jennifer Sayles, MD, MPH, chief medical officer of Inland Empire Health Plan 

The free event will take place at SAC Health System, located at Loma Linda University Health – San Bernardino. To RSVP or inquire about continuing education credit, please email jsaunders@llu.edu. Refreshments will be served.

The event is co-sponsored by SAC Health System and LLU School of Nursing. 

The School of Nursing is in year three of a $2.05 million HRSA grant to prepare nurse practitioners to work in medically underserved areassuch as many parts of San Bernardino and Riverside counties. Nurse practitioners are one type of healthcare professionals that can help fill the local primary care gap, along with physician assistants and medical doctors. 

]]>
Thu, 12 Apr 2018 11:04:35 -0700
4264:34118 <![CDATA[Learn about integrating behavioral health services with primary care April 18]]> Heather Reifsnyder Special guest Aaron Williams, MA, will speak next week at Loma Linda University Medical Center on “Integrated Care: Practice and Policy Implications in a Time of Uncertainty.” Williams is senior director for the Center for Integrated Health Solutionsat the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). 

Integrating behavioral health treatment with the primary care model is shown to improve health outcomes, yet it is underutilized. Williams will discuss national efforts to grow this integration movement.

The free seminar takes place Wednesday, April 18, from noon to 1 p.m. in the Medical Center’s A-level Amphitheater. It is part of the “Spotlight on Health Policy” lecture series sponsored by theInstitute for Health Policy and Leadershipat Loma Linda University Health.

Registration is not required. To learn more, contact the Institute for Health Policy and Leadership at ihpl@llu.eduor ext. 87022.

]]>
Thu, 12 Apr 2018 11:03:07 -0700
4264:34119 <![CDATA[School of Religion to explore faith through lenses of theatre and journalism ]]> The Humanities Program at the School of Religion invites the campus and community to its free events over the next two weekends.

Theatre performance: God’s Favorite, a comedy by Neil Simon

This contemporary morality tale, which draws inspiration from the biblical book of Job, will be performed Saturdays, April 14 and 21, at 7:30 p.m., and Sundays, April 15 and 22, at 2 p.m., in Damazo Amphitheater at the Centennial Complex. Admission is free to this Wright–Huffman Production.

The Role of Independent Journalism in a Faith Community

Former editor of Christianity Todayand HIS magazine David Neff will speak about his observations regarding Seventh-day Adventism in relations to the wider Christian community. The presentation will take place Saturday, April 21, at 3 p.m. at Damazo Amphitheater in the Centennial Complex. It is co-sponsored by Adventist Today, which is celebrating its 25thanniversary this year.

For more information, call 909-558-5925 or email humanities@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 12 Apr 2018 11:03:42 -0700
4264:34116 <![CDATA[Free cooking demo: fighting cancer with Brazilian cuisine ]]> A cooking demonstration offered by the Living Whole Wellness Program and Loma Linda University Cancer Center will feature Chef Maggie Carneiro, MPH, RDN, CDE, teaching about cancer-fighting foods with a Brazilian theme.

Chef Carneiro will follow her demonstration with a discussion of nutrient content and taste-testing. Attendees will enjoy samples and leave with take-home recipes.  

The free event takes place from 6 – 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 18, in the kitchen at Nichol Hall. Seating is limited. Please RSVP by calling ext. 14007.

This event is part of the 2018 series of cancer-fighting foods demonstrations.  

]]>
Thu, 12 Apr 2018 11:00:58 -0700
4264:34117 <![CDATA[Saving ourselves vs. God's grace — a devotional]]> By Randy Roberts 1 Samuel 27

David was a remarkably resilient person. The relentless persecution he faced from King Saul would have caused a lesser person to wilt in defeat. But David persevered all the way onto the throne of Israel. It is a remarkable statement about the strength of his character.

When our son, Austin, was a student at Walla Walla University, I noticed a poster on the wall of the hallway outside his door. It showed the picture of a canyon cut into the rock of a wilderness scene. The canyon was deep, and, at the bottom of the canyon, a river flowed. At the bottom of the picture, the caption read: “In the confrontation between the river and the rock, the river always wins … not by strength, but by perseverance.”

In a sense, David was like that. As King Saul persisted in trying to finish David off, David was doggedly persistent in his fight to stay one step ahead of Saul and stay alive. In fact, he was so focused on staying alive that 1 Samuel 27 tells the story of his choice to do something that does not cast a particularly good light on David.

The Philistines and the Israelites were mortal enemies. To get a flavor of their hostility, just remember the name Goliath. He was the giant Philistine champion David had slain. David’s act in doing so had, no doubt, ensconced him in the hallway of Philistia’s mortal enemies. One can imagine that many Philistine warriors would have just loved to get their hands on David!

But, suddenly, David moves into the neighborhood. A Philistine neighborhood. He takes up residence in Philistia!He becomes — for all practical purposes — a naturalized Philistine!Such a choice begs the question “Why?!”

The text answers that question quite frankly. It says: “But David thought to himself, ‘One of these days I will be destroyed by the hand of Saul. The best thing I can do is to escape to the land of the Philistines. Then Saul will give up searching for me anywhere in Israel, and I will slip out of his hand” (1 Samuel 27:1, TNIV).

David uses an alliance with the Philistines as his escape plan. But he does more than that. He ultimately is willing to go to war with the Philistines against Israel

Kind of sets you back, doesn’t it? Kind of takes some of the shine off David’s character, doesn’t it? And … it kind of makes mewonder to what lengths you and I would go to “save ourskin.”

It’s quite different than what we find in the life of Jesus — the Jesus who willinglystepped into the path of danger for the good of others; the Jesus who said, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (John 15:13, TNIV); the Jesus who gave himself rather than saving himself.

But, I actually take comfort in David. Or, maybe better stated, I take comfort in David’s God. Because David’s God is a God who will take those of us who are a mixed bag of realities — good and bad, beautiful and ugly, kind and mean, altruistic and selfish — and still love us, care for us and slowly change us until we become more and more like him. I don’t know what you call that, but call that grace. In fact, it’s the kind of grace that we sometimes experience when we failto be resilient like David was.

I am very, very thankful for that God.

—Randy Roberts, DMin, is vice president for spiritual life and mission at Loma Linda University Health.

]]>
Thu, 12 Apr 2018 11:02:02 -0700
4264:34056 <![CDATA[Notes from the President — Loma Linda's Own Icon]]> By Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   April 2018
Loma Linda's Own Icon

“Bailey-in-surgery”

Other descriptors could be used, but let me stick with icon. When applied to a human, it includes someone who is both successful and greatly admired. And by any account, Leonard L. Bailey, MD, LLUSM class of 1969, would be considered an icon. And now that my friend and colleague, Len, is fighting the battle of his life with recurrent throat cancer, it is time we talk about his impact on Loma Linda University Health and the world beyond.

By his own telling, Len has had a few wake-up moments in his life, beginning as a sophomore college student. Walter Clark, our Dean of Admissions at Loma Linda University at the time, confronted this eager young student with the caution — “if you think you are going to be a doctor, you’ve got to do better than you’re doing now.” As with many of us at that age, Len was enjoying life, including dating his future wife, Nancy, who, according to others, had eyes only for this tall, handsome upperclassman.

Len tried to buckle down at Columbia Union College, but his second wake-up call came when he was not accepted into Loma Linda University School of Medicine on his first application. As most of us know, self-doubt can creep in at moments like this. Do I really want this? Is it worth trying again? Len dug deep into his own soul and determined to keep trying, to overcome any questions by refocusing and trying harder. These developing characteristics would pay dividends later in his career.

With his acceptance a year later finally in hand, Len and Nancy moved to Loma Linda to begin medical school. But three weeks in, facing his first major test, he was again plagued with that ultimate question — can I make it? Is this for me? He drove that evening slowly through Loma Linda, finally parking in a random driveway to wrestle with God. After a few minutes, a gentleman noticed this strange car in his driveway and came out to ask how he could help. Len mumbled an apology and took courage from that kind offer to continue his studies. 

During his second year in medicine, in 1967, Dr. Louis Smith performed the first transplant at Loma Linda University Health, a successful kidney transplant. This inspired all of us at the time, and set the wheels turning in Len’s brain about a potential career. After graduating in 1969, he stayed here for a surgery residency followed by a fellowship in pediatric cardio-thoracic surgery at The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto. It was during his residency years that Len caught his lifelong vision as he watched children born with congenital heart diseases being sent home to die. With mechanical hearts still years away, and our ability to provide immunosuppression in its infancy, he knew the challenges, but insisted on nurturing the dream.                                          

“Bailey-at-podium”

Upon returning to Loma Linda, he found Lou Smith’s lab largely empty due to his growing clinical load, and convinced the chair of surgery, Dr. David Hinshaw, to give him some time to reactivate the lab and begin the long journey toward possible infant heart transplantation. He began experimenting with goats, sheep and monkeys, trying various techniques. The issue was not primarily the mechanical ones encountered in surgery, but the ability to manage rejection in cross-species matches. 

With the introduction of cyclosporines, and after performing 150 experimental transplants, Len sensed the time was coming closer to try this on infants. They had switched to baboons as the best animal option, and had a cohort of potential donors available in the lab when the call came from another hospital where a baby had been born with hypo-plastic left heart syndrome, leaving it only days to live. So they invited Teresa Beauclair to bring her infant daughter, Stephanie Fae, down to Loma Linda to discuss this experimental option.  Len had assembled a full team by that time, including Sandra Nehlsen-Cannarella, an immunologist, and they felt ready to make this historic step toward saving lives. They had only an inkling of the media response and degree of coverage, both positive and negative, that would come from that fateful surgery on October 26, 1984.

Those final 21 days of Baby Fae’s life were intense for all of them. Literally living in the NICU, they watched each bodily function, and were eventually dismayed when her body started to fail, even though the heart was strong. In the end, the cause of her death remains uncertain. When Len finally faced the press with this heart-breaking news that was heard around the world, his voice broke with emotion and many reporters’ and TV crews’ eyes filled with tears, even as he vowed to move on in his effort to save these babies.

It was a year later that Len received a call from a hospital in the Bay Area with a potential donor heart from a baby that had asphyxiated. The doctor and family wondered if they could use it. They sure could! Baby Moses was waiting, and received that first successful infant-to-infant heart transplant and is alive and well today. And with that came the development of a donor system for infants and a growing transplant program at Loma Linda, with hundreds of recipients now living successful lives. While other teaching hospitals have taken up this challenging service, Loma Linda has still done more infant heart transplants than anywhere else in the world.

“Bailey-with-babies”

Dr. Bailey moved on to become Chair of our Department of Surgery, staying clinically active for the next 30 plus years. And it was perhaps during these later years, as fame and calls for scientific and motivational talks poured in, that Len has served us best. With his self-deprecating humor and humble demeanor, telling his own life journey, he has inspired countless students to strive for their best. He has become a senior statesman, a known figure on this campus and community, representing the best of Loma Linda. He has also trained countless heart surgeons around the world on these special techniques. It will be our privilege to bestow on him the Lifetime Service Award, our highest honor, at graduation in May. 

Most major events in the life of an institution unfold slowly, usually over months or even years. This one happened in a few hours and suddenly catapulted Loma Linda into national and international prominence. While that was not Len’s goal, he gave this institution a confidence to take on bigger challenges, even while saving the lives of the least of these.  Thank you, Len, for what you have meant to Loma Linda University Health and the world, now and into the future.

“Richard

 

 

 

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

 

 

“Bailey-with-family”

]]>
Thu, 05 Apr 2018 10:53:40 -0700
4264:34041 <![CDATA[Do the Right Thing ... Always]]> By Dilys Brooks The stories recorded in 1st and 2nd Samuel are fascinating to this reader no matter how many times I read them. It is intriguing to learn about the challenges endured by David — shepherd, anointed king of Israel, giant killer, psalmist, fighter, fugitive and future leader. It is safe to say, as we follow this story, that it takes a high level of faith, integrity and grit to withstand the temptation to take matters into his own hands.

King Saul and David had arrived at a tenuous truce after their encounter in the wilderness of Engedi (1 Samuel 24). The former had promised to discontinue seeking the life of the latter. I can only imagine David’s disbelief when he learned that the king had returned to seek his life, this time with 3,000 men and General Abner.

The fugitive David visits the enemy camp along with Abishai, a member of his band who was also David’s nephew. They proceed through the camp unnoticed until they find Saul and his companions asleep around a campfire. The young officer Abishai interprets the moment as a gift from God to avenge David’s honor, which David quickly refutes. David’s response invites our prayerful and thoughtful reflection.

How do we accept the will of God in our lives when there is no timeframe or when our safety is being threatened? Was it weak leadership on David’s part to allow Saul to live, knowing that the king had come to Engedi with the express purpose of ending his life? Why does it take God so long to fulfill promises that He makes? When opportunities arise that seem fortuitous, do we have the right people around us to help us make sound decisions?

Instead of taking Saul’s life, David tells his companion to pick up the spear and jar of water. By taking these two items, the future king serves as an example of integrity, wisdom and grace. They leave the camp as quietly as they came. After getting a safe distance away, David verbally engages with the sleeping men. His banter reveals the careless failure of the general to protect King Saul and once more refutes the notion that he, David, had any plans to take the kingdom by force.

 In fact, David’s words say it all:

The Lord rewards every man for his righteousness and his faithfulness, for the Lord gave you into my hand today, and I would not put out my hand against the Lord's anointed.”

 –1 Samuel 26:23

Each of us who works for Loma Linda University Health or attend classes is being prepared to be a leader like David. At times, it seems as if people who are unscrupulous don’t suffer the consequences of their actions. On other occasions, we are tempted to take matters in our own hands. Perhaps we chafe under the delays of God’s plans or promises. Let’s all take a moment to truly listen to David’s words and behold his actions.

It is God who rewards us. Let us therefore strive to live with integrity, grace and honor, no matter what! 

—Dilys Brooks, MDiv, is campus chaplain for Loma Linda University.

]]>
Thu, 05 Apr 2018 09:45:31 -0700
4264:34042 <![CDATA[Enjoy tax-free Mac and iPad purchases April 17]]> Shop local — employees and students at Loma Linda University Health have the advantage of an Apple-authorized educational reseller at iLLUTech, located right here at the Campus Store.

iLLUTech will hold a faculty and staff appreciation day this month offering tax-free purchases of iPads and Mac computers. Students are also eligible for the savings. The event takes place Tuesday, April 17, from 8:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.

The tax-free offer applies to in-store purchases while supplies last. Download the flyer below this story for full details.

"We are having a tax-free day to provide greater benefits to all Loma Linda University Health employees and students that only iLLUTech can offer," said Vincent Garcia, manager.

To learn more, email iLLUtechstore@llu.eduor call 909-558-4129.

The Campus Store is located at 11161 Anderson St., Suite 110, adjacent to Loma Linda Market.

Discover more about iLLUTech on its Facebook page or iLLUtechstore.com.

--

Flyer:

]]>
Thu, 05 Apr 2018 09:46:15 -0700
4264:34044 <![CDATA[San Bernardino campus achieves LEED Silver Certification from U.S. Green Building Council]]> Loma Linda University Health’s San Bernardino campus holds distinction as the organization’s first LEED-certified facility, signifying commitment to environmentally sustainable new construction. LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. 

The LEED Silver Certification comes from the United States Green Building Council, which provides a guiding framework for energy efficient construction via its LEED points-based rating system. Sustainable construction practices include measures such as sourcing local materials and optimizing energy and water conservation.

“Choosing LEED-recognized green construction for our San Bernardino campus is part of our commitment to partner with our neighbors for long-term service to the community in a sustainably built environment,” said Rod Neal, MBA, senior vice president of finance for Loma Linda University Health.

Loma Linda University Health – San Bernardino houses San Manuel Gateway College and SAC Health System, which offer the community affordable options for, respectively, education in entry-level healthcare careers and a comprehensive healthcare clinic

]]>
Thu, 05 Apr 2018 09:47:50 -0700
4264:34049 <![CDATA[Your best workplace — we're listening]]> Share your thoughts and make a difference. It’s time for Modern Healthcare’s “Best Places to Work” survey.   

All employees of LLU Medical Center, Health Care, Behavioral Medicine Center, Children’s Hospital, Medical Center – Murrieta and Shared Services who were hired before Feb. 23, 2018, have an opportunity April 2–13 to share feedback about their work environment and help improve Loma Linda University Health.

This confidential survey should take approximately 10-15 minutes to complete. 

Modern Healthcare – Best Places to Work is a national program designed to recognize outstanding places of employment. In 2017, the Behavioral Medicine Center was the only facility at Loma Linda University Health with a high enough participation rate to be considered for the recognition, and it was consequently selected as one of the top 150 “Best Places to Work” in healthcare. This year, all of our facilities will participate. Please encourage participation among your departments and colleagues. 

A high response rate helps ensure an accurate representation of our community.  Regardless of whether Loma Linda University Health is recognized, the data gathered will help continue the process of creating the best workplace possible. 

If eligible to participate, you should have received an email invitation from Best Companies Group with the subject line “Best Places to Work in Healthcare – Employee Survey” on April 2.  The email contains unique access information and link to the survey for each employee. The survey can be completed at home or at work on any computer with internet access. 

 “You are the heart of this institution,” said President Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH. He invites all employees of Loma Linda University Health to participate in the survey. 

“It is the individuals who make the uniqueness, the specialness, of Loma Linda University Health,” Hart said.

Through sharing their ideas and perceptions, employees can play a positive role in making Loma Linda University Health a great place to work.

If you are eligible to participate in the survey and did not receive an email, please contact Best Companies Group via email at Support@BestCompaniesGroup.com.  For more information about the survey, please ask your direct supervisor.

LLU staff and faculty are taking a similar survey during this time period. Read the previous News of the Week story about the university survey.

]]>
Thu, 05 Apr 2018 09:57:36 -0700
4264:34048 <![CDATA[eCheck-in available for outpatient hospital-based services ]]> Patients of 66 hospital-based outpatient service departments may now use eCheck-in through MyChart.

The list comprises most outpatient services located at Loma Linda University Medical Center, including East Campus and Surgical Hospital; Children’s Hospital and its Specialty Team Centers; and a number of outpatient hospital services offered at Loma Linda University Health locations including Professional Plaza, the Faculty Medical Offices and Loma Linda University Health – Beaumont-Banning.

When eCheck-in is available for their scheduled service, patients will be notified by MyChart three days prior. eCheck-in is not available for walk-in departments, such as laboratories.

The time-saving features of eCheck-in with MyChart allow patients to input or verify their insurance; make payment and print a receipt; answer any screening questions; and e-sign necessary documents.

Depending on the information the patient provides, he or she will be green-lighted to go directly to their department on the day of service after stopping at the check-in greeter’s desk, or notified that they need to provide further information at registration.

To learn more or to request assistance, please contact the Access Center at 877-558-0090.

]]>
Thu, 05 Apr 2018 09:55:47 -0700
4264:33918 <![CDATA[Your engagement matters — we're listening ]]> LLU Engagement and "Great Colleges to Work For" Survey.]]> Share your thoughts; make a difference.

Loma Linda University employees (full-time and part-time faculty and staff hired before Feb. 23, 2018) will have an opportunity from April 2 to 13 to share feedback about their work environment and help improve Loma Linda University. This survey is confidential and should take approximately 15 minutes to respond.  

The survey serves two purposes. One, it will provide employee engagement feedback so the university can continue to grow and improve together. Two, the data collected through the survey will put Loma Linda University in contention for The Chronicle of Higher Education’s “2018 Great Colleges to Work For” recognition.

Loma Linda University received this distinction in 2017, being honored in five categories, from work/life balance to professional/career development programs and job satisfaction. We hope to gain this recognition for a second year.

If you are eligible to participate, you will receive an email invitation from ModernThink containing a link to access the survey and unique login information.  The survey can be completed at home or at work on any computer with internet access. 

 “You are the heart of this institution,” said Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health. He invites all employees of Loma Linda University to participate in the survey.

“It is the individuals who make the uniqueness, the specialness, of Loma Linda University Health,” he said.

Through sharing their ideas and perceptions, employees can play a positive role in making Loma Linda University a great place to work.

If you are eligible to participate and do not receive an email, please contact the ModernThink toll-free Help Desk at 1-888-684-4658. For more information about the survey, please ask your direct supervisor.

]]>
Thu, 29 Mar 2018 11:30:09 -0700
4264:33916 <![CDATA[LLU neurosurgeons urge congressional caucus to invest in neuroscience technologies]]> Two Loma Linda University neurosurgeons said the economic impact of treating patients with neurological disorders is greater than treating other conditions — such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases — and that more investment in treatment and easing regulations could yield large benefits to both patients and society’s healthcare costs.

Venkatraman Sadanand, MD, PhD, associate professor at LLU School of Medicine and attending pediatric neurosurgeon, and Daniel J. DiLorenzo, MD, PhD, MBA, assistant professor at LLU School of Medicine, made their remarks while presenting to the Congressional Neuroscience Caucus on March 21.

The two were among six presenters at the 7thAnnual Brain Mapping Day, held on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., this year in the Rayburn House Office Building.

Read the full story at news.llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 29 Mar 2018 11:27:59 -0700
4264:33914 <![CDATA[Resurrection to be celebrated with Easter Sunday service]]> Loma Linda University Health will rejoice with an Easter service and communion this Sunday, April 1, from 11–11:40 a.m. in the Medical Center front lobby.

Tad Worku and Jo Cordero will perform music, and a message will be delivered by Carl Ricketts Jr., MDiv, director of Chaplain Services at Loma Linda University Medical Center.

“We want our patients, families, visitors and staff within our hospitals to experience the celebration of Christ’s resurrection, because many will be unable to attend their local church’s service,” Ricketts said. 

]]>
Thu, 29 Mar 2018 11:26:31 -0700
4264:33912 <![CDATA[Family Fitness Fun 5K and Expo slated for April 8 in Redlands]]> The 4th annual Family Fitness Fun 5K and Expo will bring a host of activities designed to help runners, walkers and other types of movers spring forward into health on Sunday, April 8. The event, which is hosted as a fundraiser for Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital by the Big Hearts for Little Hearts Loma Linda Guild, will be held at the historic Burrage Mansion, located at 1205 W. Crescent Avenue in Redlands. Registration begins at 7:15 a.m. and the festivities officially start at 8 a.m.

Read the full story at news.llu.edu.

For additional information or to register, visit the event website.

]]>
Thu, 29 Mar 2018 11:24:44 -0700
4264:33910 <![CDATA[The Art of a Gentle Reproof — a devotional]]> By Kathy McMillan David said to Abigail, "Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel, who sent you today to meet me! May you be blessed for your good judgment and for keeping me from bloodshed this day and from avenging myself with my own hands. Otherwise, as surely as the Lord, the God of Israel, lives, who has kept me from harming you, if you had not come quickly to meet me, not one male belonging to Nabal would have been left alive by daybreak.”

–1 Samuel 25:32-34

It is alarming how easily revenge takes shape. Someone wrongs us and we immediately react. Whether we use hurtful words or destructive actions, human nature lends itself to repaying evil for evil.

After guarding Nabal’s flocks from invaders for some time, David sent word to Nabal, asking for some food for his troops. When Nabal refused, David was furious and decided to get even. Calling his men together, he vowed that not one male would be alive in Nabal’s territory by morning.

Enter Abigail, an intelligent and beautiful woman, according to scripture. When she gets wind of how her husband has treated David, she whips up a meal for 200 angry men. She hopes that her hospitality and care will disarm David’s anger and that her husband’s life will be spared. But she doesn’t stop there. She has the audacity to speak to David, gently reproving him for his plan.

“You don’t want to have needless bloodshed on your conscience,” she reminds him. “You must not think of how you can avenge yourself; God is going to protect you.”

Much to David’s credit, rather than getting defensive and being shamed by her words, he accepts them graciously and recognizes how closely he had come to a disastrous outcome. “Thank God for sending you here; thank you for your good judgment,” he commended Abigail.

Gracious confrontation is a scarce commodity in today’s culture. Abigail was bold enough to face a difficult situation head-on. She did not simply offer a gift of food to appease David’s anger; she called him out on his plans and reminded him of God’s providence.

In our roles at Loma Linda University Health, it is important for us to be listening to God’s voice so that we can discern when we need to speak the truth in love. In addition, it would be well for us to take wisdom from David, who was humble enough to listen and change his course of action.

—Kathy McMillan is director of Employee Spiritual Care at Loma Linda University Medical Center.

]]>
Thu, 29 Mar 2018 11:19:34 -0700
4264:33805 <![CDATA[Employees invited to study marine biology to prepare for Honduras field vacation]]> Eligible employees hearing the call of Honduras may apply their tuition benefits to take a spring quarter class offering an introduction to field tropical marine biology (course code NSCI 286).

Professor of Biology Stephen G. Dunbar, PhD, offers the class to employees and community members interested in the topic. It will meet Tuesday and Thursday evenings, 6–8 p.m., from April 3 through May 31.

Course participants will learn about marine organisms in tropical habitats around the world.

The class is required for a vacation field course to Roatan, Honduras, later this year (minimum of five participants required for the trip to take place). The tentative trip dates are Sept. 2-9; no tuition benefit applies to the trip.

Registration is now open. To learn more, contact Dunbar at sdunbar@llu.edu or ext. 48903.

 

Biology professor Stephen Dunbar, PhD, in Thailand.

]]>
Glossodoris atromarginata, as captured by Professor Stephen Dunbar in Bunaken, Indonesia.]]> Fri, 16 Mar 2018 13:44:53 -0700
4264:33779 <![CDATA[LLU Children's Health – Indio celebrates grand opening]]> The Coachella Valley community is officially home to Loma Linda University Children’s Health – Indio, Jill and Barry Golden Pavilion, the largest pediatric clinic in the area. The grand opening was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and the All About Kids Health Expo, Sunday, March 11.

Nearly 400 individuals attended the private ribbon-cutting ceremony, including Michael Wilson, mayor of Indio, and Congressman Raul Ruiz, MD.

Richard Hart MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health, said, “We are committed to this valley. We are committed to you. We are committed to your children and the leaders they will become for this region.”

Read the full story at news.llu.edu.

Loma Linda University Children’s Health – Indio is one of many clinics included under the new “Children’s Health” umbrella. See a list of all the clinics.

]]>
Thu, 15 Mar 2018 11:16:28 -0700
4264:33778 <![CDATA[Patients can now schedule online for primary care and general pediatrics appointments]]> Loma Linda University Health has debuted new options for making appointments with the following primary care and pediatric outpatient clinics:

• Family Medicine at the Professional Plaza location
• General Medicine at the Faculty Medical Offices, suite 3600
• General Pediatrics and Adult Medicine at the Highland, Meridian, Moreno Valley and Redlands locations
• Primary Care at the Beaumont-Banning and Moreno Valley locations

For new patients

The most recent enhancement allows new patients to schedule appointments on the Loma Linda University Health website. New patients can either visit the online profile of their desired physician/clinician or go to the Find A Doc webpage to search for a healthcare provider.

Only those clinicians who are currently accepting new patients and have an available appointment within the next 30 days will display the option to schedule online. Patients can choose among the visit types “annual physical,” “sick visit” or “new patient” (preventive visit).

For established patients

Established patients have the additional option of making appointments via the MyChart online patient portal or the MyChart mobile app (available via Apple or Google Play). To set up a MyChart account, request access through your provider’s office.

Via MyChart, the appointment types to choose from are “annual physical,” “follow-up visit,” “well child check-up” and “sick visit.” Established patients can also use MyChart to schedule an appointment with a new clinician by clicking “Find a new provider.”

Customer support

Questions? Please call the Access Center at 877-558-0090.

]]>
Thu, 15 Mar 2018 11:15:40 -0700
4264:33776 <![CDATA[Winners of crane-naming contest visit hospital construction site, view Mac and Cheese]]> Employees Holly Bernardi, RN, and Shelly Moore came out winners of the naming contest for the two construction cranes over the new hospital site, edging out 165 other competing entries from students and employees.

Moore and Bernardi each separately thought of and submitted the names Mac and Cheese — Mac being the taller crane situated on the north of the construction pit. Moore is manager of internal communications in the Marketing Department, and Bernardi is a nurse clinician for Children’s Hospital Specialty Team Centers.

The two women joined Rachelle Bussell, senior vice president of Advancement, and other members of the Advancement team for a tour of the construction site by Erik Chessmore, project director with McCarthy Building Companies, Inc.  

Chessmore noted that construction is continuing with the steel installation phase — erecting, bolting and welding — for the first four floors of the new hospital complex. When that shared base is finished, work on the two clinical towers — one for children and one for adults — will begin.

Visit the Vision 2020 website for more information about the expansion of clinical care at Loma Linda University Health.

]]>
Thu, 15 Mar 2018 11:12:07 -0700
4264:33777 <![CDATA[LLU employees only: deadline extended; 14 days remain to complete Wholeness Health Plan wellness activities]]> Employees of Loma Linda University now have until March 28 to complete the Wholeness Health Plan A-B-C wellness activities. This is the final deadline.

Through the Wholeness Health Plan’s wellness discount,  university employees receive the most coverage for the least cost. To qualify for the Wholeness Health Plan’s wellness discount, LLU employees must complete the A-B-C requirements below by March 28, 2018.

Wholeness Health Plan’s wellness discount activities

A: Assessment and Account — Complete the online Health Risk Assessment and create a MyChart account if you do not already have one.

B: Biometric screening — Complete a biometric screening at one of the many locations on campus.

C: Care managementThis step only applies to employees or covered spouses who receive an invitation.

Step-by-step

To get started on the activities, follow these three steps:

One: Visit myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole/planrequirements.

Two: Print out the Quick Guide for “Current University Health Plan Members.” This guide contains the instructions and the usernames and passwords needed for the biometric screening and Health Risk Assessment sites.

To ensure a convenient time for the biometric screening, make an appointment as soon as possible. Appointments fill up quickly.

Three: If you or your covered spouse were sent an invitation for care management in the past, you will need to complete the entire program or a series of appointments/activities by Wednesday, March 28, 2018. 

]]>
Thu, 15 Mar 2018 11:14:09 -0700
4264:33775 <![CDATA[Lopers Club offers four-month 'gap' season]]> Employees and students can discover if the Lopers Club is for them through a new opportunity to join the group for four months as opposed to the usual yearlong commitment.

This “gap” season will run from April 8 through Aug. 4 for the cost of $20. Loma Linda University Health will subsidize this cost for its first 200 employees and students who sign up. Use your EID badge number to receive the subsidy.

A marathon does not need to be the goal of every Lopers member. The club offers pace groups for every level of fitness, from walking to running or a combination of the two.

The Lopers Club meets Sunday mornings at 6:30 at Drayson Center. To join for the gap season, arrive by 6:15 a.m. on April 8 to register.

For questions about the club, email president@lopersclub.org.

]]>
Thu, 15 Mar 2018 11:11:10 -0700
4264:33774 <![CDATA[Overcome unhealthy patterns through the Unstuck Program]]> Employees feeling stuck in life can learn skills for making and reaching goals through joining the upcoming Unstuck Program at Loma Linda University Health.

The Unstuck Program is a cognitive educational group for people struggling to make healthy changes. It will help attendees set goals, make a plan and stay motivated.

The program begins Tuesday, May 8, and is free to employees and their covered spouses when attendance requirements are met. It will meet each Tuesday from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. for eight weeks at the LLUH 101 Building, 101 E. Redlands Blvd.

The program’s aim is to offer personalized services; therefore, a one-on-one appointment with the facilitator is required before the program start date. Appointments are now open.

Register by Friday, May 4. Space is limited. To sign up or learn more, call the Living Whole Wellness Program at ext. 14007.

Learn more about the Unstuck Program.

 

]]>
Thu, 15 Mar 2018 11:10:19 -0700
4264:33773 <![CDATA[Spring chapel lineup to focus on Mary]]> Loma Linda University chaplains invite members of the campus to the spring 2018 University @ Worship chapel services, meeting Wednesday mornings from 11 to 11:50 a.m. at Loma Linda University Church.

The spring lineup begins Wednesday, March 28, and continues weekly through May 16. During Week of Renewal, April 2-6, chapel will meet daily.

See the spring schedule of speakers in the poster above.

]]>
Thu, 15 Mar 2018 11:08:43 -0700
4264:33771 <![CDATA[Rock of Parting — a devotional]]> By Carla Gober-Park, PhD I Samuel 23

A young man and woman are dating until each is called “by God” to a different end — the young woman to marriage and the young man to breaking up with that same woman. Who hears the call of God correctly?

In I Samuel 23, David wonders if he should go to Keilah to fight the Philistines and, even though his men “are afraid,” he believes that the Lord tells him to “Go.”

Saul hears that David is in Keilah and is sure that “God has delivered him into my hands.”

David asks God, “Will Saul come to get me?”

“He will.”

“Will the citizens of Keilah surrender me and my men to him?”

“They will.” 

Which one hears God correctly? On whose side is God? 

Saul is king. According to Saul’s son, Jonathan, David is to be the next king. Is God moving from supporting one to another? Are both men correct? Neither?

From there it is a game of cat and mouse. Saul is determined to catch David, to “track him down among all the clans of Judah.” This is no small passion. Instead, it is the driving force of Saul’s life. He will find David and he will capture him. David is running, hiding. It is the nightmare of the worst sort, except there is no waking. David is the mouse, and the cat will not give up.

Strange that both men are trying to follow the will of God, or at least talk the talk. The larger picture is the same for both — the leadership of God’s people — but that seems to get lost in the chase.

David hides in the Desert of Maon (the Rock), and while he runs along one side of the mountain, Saul runs along the other side. How silly they look from above, but the consequences will not be silly if they meet. Nor will the future.

Just as the tension mounts, Saul is called away to a more consequential battle, leaving David, his men and the mountain that separated them from Saul. At this point, the narrator of the text says, “That is why they call this place Sela Hammahlekoth.” It means “rock of parting” or “rock of divisions.” It kept two people (two groups of people) from seeing and destroying each other.

Thank goodness for this “rock of parting.” Each will have to go home and think through this horrible game they are playing. Perhaps one is more right than the other. No matter. They have one more day to think about it. And that is always good.

Back to the scenario of the young man and woman: is it possible that they don’t really see each other? Might they, given the sight they each have, feel called by God toward a different end?

This does not mean that God is confused. There is something larger at stake, yes, larger even than their potential marriage to each other. Sometimes we simply need to “part” and focus on that for a while. 

—Carla Gober-Park, PhD, is assistant vice president for Spiritual Life and Mission at Loma Linda University Health, as well as director of the Center for Spiritual Life and Wholeness.

 

]]>
Thu, 15 Mar 2018 11:07:10 -0700
4264:33725 <![CDATA['Healing. Healthy. Happy.' — the new brand of Loma Linda University Children's Health ]]> Loma Linda University Health employees were invited to a sneak peek at the new brand awareness campaign for children’s services on Tuesday, March 6. The entities now under the umbrella of LLU Children’s Health are LLU Children’s Hospital, the Department of Pediatrics, and their clinics.

Scott Perryman, senior VP/administrator of LLU Children’s Hospital, delivered an overview of the research that went into creating the Loma Linda University Children’s Health brand. “We realized that we need to do a more effective job of sharing the story of all of our children’s services including our nationally recognized children’s hospital. We are committing ourselves today to creating awareness and recognition of every part of our system that keeps your children healing, healthy, and happy.”

Loma Linda University Children’s Health Services are available at:

  • Department of Pediatrics, Loma Linda clinic
  • Department of Pediatrics, Moreno Valley clinic
  • Loma Linda University Health – Beaumont-Banning, pediatric clinic
  • LLU Children’s Health – Indio, coming March 12
  • LLU Medical Center – Murrieta, expanded specialty suite now open with more services coming soon
  • Pediatric express care, Loma Linda clinic
  • Riverside University Health System

Video: The new tagline “Healing. Healthy. Happy.” was revealed and staff were invited to share what makes them happy.

]]>
Thu, 08 Mar 2018 12:13:37 -0800
4264:33712 <![CDATA[One Homecoming: a recap]]> Loma Linda University Health has concluded a successful second annual One Homecoming weekend, fueled by interprofessional continuing education programs and numerous alumni activities. A special thank you to everyone who participated in the 2018 One Homecoming. 

Thursday featured several programs. An all-school research poster presentation showcased the latest research from Loma Linda University's eight professional schools, LLU-La Sierra graduates and by current and former Medical Center and university staff members. At the 30th Annual Cardiology Symposium, which addressed updates in cardiology and adult congenital heart diseases, seventeen program directors and LLU faculty presented information on the newest therapies in adult congenital heart disease and arrhythmias.

Meanwhile, the Whole Notes Conference focused on bridging the gap in clinical communication, concentrating specifically on communication strategies relevant to all healthcare fields.

Friday morning, the School of Dentistry hosted a missions emphasis breakfast in the Wong Kerlee International Conference Center. Alumni and current students took time to renew friendships and share memories over a meal. Continuing education resumed with several schools providing learning opportunities. Meanwhile, tours of the construction area provided the most updated information on Vision 2020 – The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow.

Friday concluded with vespers in the Loma Linda University Church. The program began with an organ concert by Kimo Smith, followed by stories of Unsung Alumni Heroes featuring Yoshinobu Namihira, MD — "The Doctor on Crutches" — and Dilip Joseph, MD, MPH, who was "Taken By The Taliban: A Doctor's Story Of Captivity and Rescue." The program gave attention to extraordinary people who have changed lives and communities close to home and around the world. Two such people featured were Mary Ann and Steve Wells. As a nurse at LLU Children’s Hospital, Mary Ann encountered a baby girl named Sophia suffering from gastroschisis. The couple eventually adopted Sophia after she was removed from her biological mother.

Saturday began with a Prayer Walk during which alumni, current students and faculty had the opportunity to reflect on the institution's history and pray for the future. Sabbath services followed in the Drayson Center, starting with the Parade of Nations ceremony — a reminder of the courage of alumni who have served and of current students who participate in mission trips worldwide. Attendees also enjoyed music from the LLU Church Orchestra and Choir, and a sermon by Randy Roberts, DMin, vice president for spiritual life and mission.

The superfield played host to a haystack feed for lunch, where more than 1,600 people were fed in 30 minutes. The Association of International Mission Service hosted its annual symposium and the annual Mission Vespers, which spotlighted the institution’s history of outreach. To end the evening, Loma Linda University Health featured talented alumni from across all schools. Highlighting the evening was Kevin "K.O." Olusola, the beat boxer from vocal quintet Pentatonix. Olusola is the eldest son of Loma Linda University alumnae Curline Paul-Olusola and Oluwole Olusola, who met in the Del E. Webb Memorial Library. The performance was followed by a screening of Life on the Line – San Bernardino Strong.

Sunday morning began with the Homecoming 5K. This year, alumni and students came together to support the School of Nursing and the School of Pharmacy, which benefited from the event’s entrance fees. After the run, attendees enjoyed a pancake feed, a bouncy house and face painting. A unique highlight of the day was the Homecoming pickleball tournament. As the largest pickleball facility in all of California, the Drayson Center held a friendly pickleball competition between the eight schools. Alumni, family and friends joined in the fun for the inaugural event.

Janya Mekelburg, the director of alumni and donor relations, said the second One Homecoming was another success, both for its seamless logistics and its opportunities for reconnecting, fellowship and learning. "We hope everyone enjoyed the events surrounding this weekend, and we look forward to seeing everyone again next year,” Mekelburg said.

“Tremendous thanks to everyone involved for their amazing efforts and the legions of staff, departments and volunteers who worked tirelessly to make this weekend a success,” she said.

]]>
Thu, 08 Mar 2018 10:25:55 -0800
4264:33716 <![CDATA[Over $2 million raised for LLU Children's Hospital ]]> The 25th Anniversary Reflection Foundation Gala, presented by Walter’s Automotive Group, was an evening to remember, raising an unprecedented $2.35 million.

The theme, “Reflection,” celebrated the first 25 years of Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital and highlighted its bold plans for the future.

Funds raised will benefit Vision 2020 – The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow, which supports construction of the new Children’s Hospital tower and Loma Linda University Children’s Health – Indio, Jill and Barry Golden Pavilion. The latter is slated to open March 12.

Read the full story at news.llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 08 Mar 2018 10:42:55 -0800
4264:33713 <![CDATA[Murrieta's Behavioral Medicine Center celebrates five years]]> Former patients, staff and their families, community officials and guest of honor Jonathan Ingram, mayor of Murrieta, celebrated the five-year anniversary of the Behavioral Medicine Center at Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta during a Feb. 21 reception.

See the full story at news.llu.edu, including remarks from former patients about their healing experience following the trauma of their horrific experience during the Las Vegas shooting.

]]>
Thu, 08 Mar 2018 10:28:39 -0800
4264:33711 <![CDATA[Physician's podcast highlights psychological level of patient care]]> David Puder, MD, wants every healthcare provider to know that whether they realize it or not, their interactions with a patient happen on a psychological level. His new podcast — “Psychiatry and Psychotherapy Podcast” —  is intended to educate and encourage providers to use that psychological connection to understand and improve patient outcomes and reduce the stigma of mental illness.

“There was a study done that looked at physicians treating patients with diabetes. Those who were more empathic were 40 percent less likely to have complications in their patients than physicians who were less empathic,”* Puder said. “There’s also a psychological component to getting patients to take their medication. If they feel connected to their physician, they’re more likely to take their meds.”

Light and conversational, the weekly podcast covers topics ranging from stress to women’s health, teen suicide and how pharmaceuticals interact with individual genetics.

“Any doctor is going to be interested in this because the topics bleed into every medical specialty,” Puder said.

Puder is collaborating with colleagues and students to produce the podcast. They spend weeks or months reviewing papers, asking questions and sharing notes. Once they’re finished, Puder and his collaborator record a conversation on the topic.

“A cool thing about a podcast is you can be motivational and encouraging,” he said. “The people whose podcasts I listen to a lot — you feel almost a camaraderie with them. It’s like they’re friends.”

Creating that friendly dialogue is something that’s important to him. When Puder researched existing psychology podcasts, he found that most were formal and stiff — in short, not conducive to learning.

“Think about PowerPoints. Your brain shuts down after a while. It’s one-way communication,” Puder explained. “People were built to learn in conversation. Our brains pick up information when it’s a dialogue.”

He hopes the podcast will create a dialogue that helps listeners come away with an understanding of the basic scientific principles that inform psychology — and he’s well on his way. Just one month after launching the podcast in mid-January, Puder had nearly 2,000 subscribers and was ranked as the No. 4 psychology podcast on iTunes.

“If people believe that the psychiatrist is not a big, bad, scary figure, and they believe they’re coming to a place where they are going to be treated by experts — which they are — they are more likely to seek treatment and get help and get better,” he said. “I think this could go a long way in educating people in that way.”

The show can be found on iTunesGoogle Play and other major podcast apps.

*Del Canale, S., Louis, D. Z., Maio, V., Wang, X., Rossi, G., Hojat, M., & Gonnella, J. S. (2012). The relationship between physician empathy and disease complications: an empirical study of primary care physicians and their diabetic patients in Parma, Italy. Academic Medicine, 87(9), 1243-1249.

 

]]>
Thu, 08 Mar 2018 10:23:56 -0800
4264:33710 <![CDATA[Developing in caves of challenge and controversy — a devotional]]> By Carl A. Ricketts Jr. David, the giant killer, is on the run from the jealous King Saul, causing the fleeing man to seek an alliance with Israel’s enemy in Gath. His need to secure safety is primary in his mind, but he cannot outrun his reputation.

When David presents himself within the king’s court in Gath, an observant servant informs King Achish:

“Is this not David the king of the land? Did they not sing of this one as they danced, saying,

            ‘Saul has slain his thousands,
            And David his ten thousands?’”

                        (1 Samuel 21:11)

David is neither the king of Israel nor a king of any land. At this moment he is a refugee on the run, but they recognize him as a dignitary.

When God is leading your life, He causes people to see you as He sees you. God’s view of you is greater than what you are going through!

Once David realizes that his identity has been made, he escapes by acting insane. Have you ever felt displaced from people, places and things familiar to you because of your honorable reputation? Have you ever tried to seek safety where God has not yet instructed you to go? Have you ever tried to downplay your honorable reputation in order to preserve yourself?

David is learning what life is like when one is chasing after the heart of God, experiencing the highs and lows. For every feeling of community, you may experience loneliness. For every feeling of trust, you may experience betrayal. For every feeling of serenity, you may experience anxiety. You may even wonder, “Where can I feel safe?” It is in these moments, in these highs and lows, that we must rely on God.

Where does David go? He withdraws to a to a cave (1 Samuel 22).

Caves are lonely, dark, frightening places to be. For David, the cave provides needed time to reflect.

In the cave, he has a promise but no pathway to its future.

In the cave, he has a weapon, but no one to fight.

In the cave, he is on the run, but God is with him.

What do you do when you find yourself in a cave?

Sometimes God must take us into the quiet, not to give us a restart or a reboot, but to install a new operating system. He guides us to community founded on Him, to trusting relationships built on Him, and to everlasting peace nurtured through Him.

God removes David from the palace court in order to begin developing him to fulfill His divine will in David’s life.

David’s exile is not spent entirely in solitude. His family, 400 men and the prophet Gad all show up when they hear that David is in the cave. None of these individuals would have been able to help David in his journey if he had remained in Israel.

Never despise your time in the cave of challenge and controversy. Know that God is developing you and your inner circle for something greater.

Hear God saying, “You are not alone.”

—Carl Ricketts Jr., MDiv, is director of Chaplain Services for Loma Linda University Medical Center.

 

]]>
Thu, 08 Mar 2018 10:21:29 -0800
4264:33657 <![CDATA[People Like Us — a devotional]]> By Randy Roberts 1 Samuel 21

I almost laugh out loud every time I read the story. But, first, the background: David is — as so often was the case for him — on the run from King Saul. His life, once again, is on the line. He flees to a town called Nob, where he has a conversation with Ahimelek the priest. David is frantic. He’s in desperate need of protection. In fact, he’s sopanicky that he lies to Ahimelek, telling him that he’s on a mission for King Saul. Ahimelek is doubtful, wondering why — if David is on a mission for the king — he has come alone. 

In the end, Ahimelek helps David, and David escapes — with the help of a little white lie — and all seems well for the moment. Except …

There is one little problem. David’s conversation with Ahimelek was overhead by Doeg the Edomite. Doeg was one of King Saul’s faithful servants. And what do faithful servants do? They report any perceived threat to the king. Which is precisely what Doeg did. And now David is in even deeper difficulty.

So now David not only flees; he actually flees to one of Israel’s mortal enemies, King Achish of Gath. Gath was hometown of Goliath. Remember him? Goliath of Gath! He was the giant David took down back in 1 Samuel 17. And now David is pleading for asylum in the belly of the beast.

And here’s where the story gets interesting. Achish apparently seems inclined to accept David, to help him. And it is then that his servants ask him: “Isn’t this David, the one the Israelites sing about in their dances?” And then they repeat this refrain:

Saul has slain his thousand,
and David his tens of thousands. 

It’s what the women sang after David slew Goliath. And the implied question on the part of the servants of Achish is, “Do you really want to forge an alliance with the soldier who killed the bestsoldier we’ve ever had?!”

David realizes that, without quick action, he’s history. So here’s how the text reports what he did next:

So [David] pretended to be insane in their presence; and while he was in their hands he acted like a madman, making marks on the doors of the gate and letting saliva run down his beard (1 Samuel 21:13).

Pretty ingenious, right? But it’s the next part that makes me laugh.

Achish said to his servants: 

“Look at the man! He is insane! Why bring him to me? Am I so short of madmen that you have to bring this fellow here to carry on like this in front me? Must this man come into my house?” (1 Samuel 21:14–15)

So, what are we to make of this tale? How might it apply to us? That sometimes a white lie is acceptable? That, at times, when life is at stake, we do whatever is necessary to survive? That nobody sane wants more madmen in their house? Or something else altogether? 

Here’s what encourages me. Recognizing that while God’s people are clearly called to high standards — standards of truth and justice and integrity — God was still willing to use people like David, people who often failed to reach that standard, failed to speak truth, to manifest integrity and to trust God. People who, rather than placing their lives into God’s hands, took things into their own hands.

After all these years of studying the Bible, it still amazes me just who it is that God is willing to use. People like David. People like you. People like me. 

—Randy Roberts, DMin, is vice president for spiritual life and mission at Loma Linda University Health.

 

]]>
Thu, 01 Mar 2018 11:00:10 -0800
4264:33658 <![CDATA[Global Health Institute announces new international volunteer opportunities for nursing staff]]> The Loma Linda University Health Global Health Institute has introduced opportunities for Loma Linda University Medical Center nursing staff to serve in overseas mission hospitals through the International Service Program.

The program was created in response to an increase in Medical Center nursing staff inquiring about mission service abroad, following observational visits from various international nursing professionals to Loma Linda.

Derek Hidalgo, MBA, RN, director of patient care for medical ICU/surgical ICU/neurosciences, believes that nursing staff will benefit from international service just as visiting nurses have benefited from observation and mentorship at LLU Medical Center.

“Learning how to teach and train in a hospital setting without emerging medical technology and advanced health care systems may allow staff to grow professionally and personally,” Hidalgo said. “They will likely return better nurses —  allowing us to provide our patients with the best care possible.”

In order to apply to participate in the program, nurses are required to have at least two years of RN hospital experience, a BS degree, an interest in teaching and mentoring, and a recommendation letter from their nurse manager.

Service trips are typically two weeks in length and have defined objectives, such as staff development, nurse leadership and management, and nurse education. Volunteer nurses may also assist with the implementation of Joint Commission International standards and patient safety goals.

Current opportunities at partner sites include Hospital Del Sureste in Villahermosa, Tabasco, Mexico, and Dong'e People's Hospital in Dong'e County, Shandong, China.

To learn more about international nursing service opportunities through the Global Health Institute’s International Service Program, visit lluglobal.com/nursing.

]]>
Thu, 01 Mar 2018 11:01:58 -0800
4264:33660 <![CDATA[School of Religion conference to examine 'Facing Ethical Dilemmas with Faith' in context of bioethics and world religions]]> Loma Linda University School of Religion will present the program “Facing Ethical Dilemmas with Faith: Bioethics and World Religion Case Conference” on March 12 from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. at Centennial Complex.

The program will explore the nature of bioethics in a multicultural society where patients and health care professionals frequently come from different religious backgrounds and ethical understandings. Six case studies will be presented examining instances in which a patient has made a special request based on their religious beliefs that is at odds with the recommendations of the care team.

Scholars and professionals of various legal, medical, ethical and religious backgrounds will dialogue with the audience in the interactive case conference-style event.

All are welcome to join in this free event. Pre-registration is required; lunch will be served. Reserve your seat at religion.llu.edu/caseconference.

The event is co-sponsored by the Center for Understanding World Religions and Center for Christian Bioethics.

For more information call 909-558-8434 or email religion@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 01 Mar 2018 11:09:21 -0800
4264:33662 <![CDATA[Employee guidelines for responding to news media]]> All members of the news media must work through the Department of Public Relations at Loma Linda University Health. The following guidelines are in place for Loma Linda University Health employees if approached by members of external news media.

1. Do not give any information out. There is no such thing as “off the record.”

2. Even if you feel that you are the appropriate person for the interview, do not answer any questions until you’ve completed the steps below.

3. Write down the caller’s name, media affiliation and phone number. 

4. Politely but firmly ask that the member of the news media wait until you have contacted the media relations team at Loma Linda University Health. Ask the operator (909-558-4000) to page the media relations specialist on-call. 

Suggested phrasing: “We want to make sure that the appropriate person speaks with you so that you get the most accurate information. The best person to arrange that for you is our media relations specialist.”

5. During normal business hours, you may also call the Office of Public Relations at 909-558-4111.

6. If you find a member of the news media on the premises unaccompanied by one of our public relations representatives or otherwise without authorization, politely but firmly escort him/her to an area where you can page the media relations specialist through our operator (step 4 above).

7. If necessary, call security 909-558-4320 or ext. 44320.

]]>
Thu, 01 Mar 2018 11:18:59 -0800
4264:33664 <![CDATA[Notes from the President: An ancient Chinese philosopher's thoughts on humility]]> By Richard H. Hart   March 2018
An ancient Chinese philosopher's thoughts on humility

Why it’s one of Loma Linda University Health’s core values

I last wrote about one of our “core values” at Loma Linda University Health — Compassion — two years ago. Following our acronym JCHIEFS, the next in line is Humility.

“Richard

Many of our other values — Justice, Compassion, Integrity, Excellence, Freedom, and Self-Control — show up as core values in other organizations, but you rarely see Humility on anyone’s list (maybe they’re too humble to claim it?). Whenever we discuss modifying our list, this one always gets challenged by a few who wonder if it should be there, and others who fiercely defend it. 

So, what is humility? Can it be taught? Or shared? Or learned? 

It seems we live in a world today that wants credit for everything good and seeks to avoid blame for misfortune. A quote that comes to mind is from the late British journalist Charles Edward Montague: “There is no limit to what a man can do who does not care who gains the credit for it.” So certainly one aspect of humility is holding others up and giving them the credit for something they were involved with. That is certainly the mark of a true leader, a characteristic sadly missing in our world today.

I think humility, at its core, comes from a deep understanding of our relationship with God and the universe around us. If we see ourselves as a child of His — deeply dependent on Him for life, health, purpose and meaning — this automatically puts us into a subservient relationship. Our daily prayers — before meals, at the beginning of committee meetings, or at random — all remind us of that relationship, and that we are here for a greater purpose than our own. This certainly helps to avoid the counterpoint of humility — pride — that suggests it’s all about me. When you accept the idea that your accomplishments come from Him, and the circumstances He created around you, this certainly keeps a person’s ego in check.

Another term we increasingly use today is “Cultural Humility.” This embodies the concept that much of what we see and understand and value comes from our particular cultural background. But others may see the same event or action quite differently, interpreting from their own personal and worldview. The challenge is to recognize that my cultural biases do not make something right or wrong, just different. Seeking to see and understand from another’s perspective is one of the great lessons of life, one that needs repeating, time after time. Certainly that is one of our goals at Loma Linda University Health, for both students, faculty and staff to understand another’s journey and perspective, respect it as meaningful to them, and seek to build a relationship within that framework.

Somehow related to cultural humility is organizational humility. Can an organization, in particular an academic health sciences center, be humble? What does that look like? Can we own our own spots, perhaps difficult moments in our history, times when our values seemed to be clouded? Life brings these to all of us, and Loma Linda University Health is not immune to some of the current societal concerns, such as racial or cultural divides, sexual harassment, or hostile workplace relationships. My personal goal is not to deny or hide, but to own and confront these blemishes. We are human, part of a troubled world, and there are certainly behaviors we need to understand, correct and then seek forgiveness from those who have been wounded. 

Finally, when considering humility, I always turn to one of my favorite sayings, credited to Lao Tzu, author of the Tao. The quote refers to development and is at the core of leadership and the value of humility. It can apply to people, communities, or countries:

Go To The People,
     Live Among Them,
     Learn From Them,
     Love Them,
Start With What They Know
     Build on What They Have
And of The Greatest Leaders
     When Their Work Is Done,
The People Will All Say
     We Have Done It Ourselves

That is humility. That is empowerment. And that is why we espouse it as one of our core values.

“Richard

 

 

 

Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health 

Vision 2020 – The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow

 

P.S.  Hope to see you at Homecoming this week.

P.P.S.  See a live update on the progress of our hospital construction at http://lluhvision2020.org/live-construction-feed, or walk over to the site and look for yourself. 

 

]]>
Thu, 01 Mar 2018 11:29:32 -0800
4264:33666 <![CDATA[Loma Linda University Children's Health to host re-brand rollout party]]> Loma Linda University Health employees are invited to a sneak peek at the new brand awareness campaign for children’s services — now under the umbrella of LLU Children’s Health — at a come-and-go rollout event Tuesday, March 6, at Children’s Hospital rooms 1830-1832.

The rollout party will have two sessions: morning (6:45 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.) and afternoon/evening (3 p.m. – 7:45 p.m.). Executives will deliver remarks during the windows of 7 – 7:30 a.m., 3 – 3:30 p.m., and 6 – 6:30 p.m. 

Last fall, Loma Linda University Health embarked on a research process aimed at establishing improved brand awareness of Children’s Hospital services.

Attendees will learn about the history of the brand process, information about the tagline and logo, and how campaign advertising will roll out in mid-March.

In addition to a campaign sneak peek, the event will offer giveaways, refreshments and a chance to learn more about how employees can become brand ambassadors for Loma Linda University Children’s Health.

Employees unable to attend in person may watch livestreamed remarks via the One Portal at 3 p.m.

]]>
Thu, 01 Mar 2018 11:39:45 -0800
4264:33668 <![CDATA[Pentatonix vocalist to perform for Homecoming this weekend]]> This Saturday evening’s concert featuring Pentatonix vocalist Kevin “K.O.” Olusola will be one of several highlights during the One Homecoming weekend of March 1-5 at Loma Linda University Health.

Other major events of the weekend include spiritual programming Friday night and Saturday that will also be livestreamed at llu.edu/homecoming for those unable to attend in person: an “Unsung Heroes” Friday night vespers featuring alumni stories and organist Kimo Smith; a Parade of Nations service Saturday morning, to be followed by Sabbath church; and a Mission Vespers to close the Sabbath.

Also not to be missed will be the Saturday morning Prayer Walk beginning at 7:30 a.m. at the Mission Globe; this will not livestream.

Homecoming Concert Saturday night

Headlining the Homecoming Concert at 7 p.m. Saturday night at Drayson Center will be Kevin “K.O.” Olusola from Pentatonix.

Olusola is best known as the beat boxer of the three-time Grammy Award-winning and multi-platinum-selling group vocal quintet Pentatonix. As a part of Pentatonix, Olusola has sold more than 6.5 million albums and performed for hundreds of thousands of fans at sold-out shows across the globe. The group’s YouTube channel boasts more than 13.8 million subscribers, yielding over 2.7 billion video views, and their 2015 self-titled album has been certified gold after debuting #1 on Billboard’s 200.

The Homecoming Concert will also feature seven performances from talented Loma Linda University students and alumni.

Register to reserve tickets for the concert.

]]>
Thu, 01 Mar 2018 11:45:49 -0800
4264:33572 <![CDATA[Make plans to attend One Homecoming weekend at Loma Linda University Health]]> By James Ponder Loma Linda University Health cordially invites alumni and current and former employees to attend One Homecoming, a campus-wide celebration for all eight schools and six hospitals of the organization. The event will be held Thursday, March 1, to Monday, March 5, at locations across the main Loma Linda campus.

This marks the second year of One Homecoming, a campus-wide alumni weekend, instead of separate homecomings for each school and hospital.

The word “One” underscores the unity the event is designed to foster, as people from multiple generations, disciplines, cultures and faiths come together to celebrate their shared experiences at Loma Linda University Health.

In his letter of invitation, President Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH, noted that feedback from guests who attended the first One Homecoming last year was overwhelmingly positive.

“It is our greatest pleasure to host this weekend and to celebrate you,” Hart said. “This has become another way to be One Loma Linda — to educate, motivate and support our many alumni and friends who anchor at least part of their identity around this place.”

The schedule reveals 15 special events open to all attendees as well as dozens of smaller occasions specific to each school or hospital. The open activities are:

  • The 7th International Congress on Vegetarian Nutrition, which will precede One Homecoming from February 26 to 28. Registration information is available at http://www.vegetariannutrition.org.
  • The Whole Notes Conference: Bridge the Gap — Clinical Communication, an interdisciplinary symposium on communication strategies relevant to all health care fields. The conference will be held Thursday, March 1, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in Drayson Center. Information is available at https://home.llu.edu/whole-notes-conference-bridge-gap-clinical-communication
  • An All-School Research Poster Presentation at Drayson Center on Thursday, March 1, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Hospital Construction Tours will be available on Friday, March 2, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The tours will start at the shuttle stop on the north side of the Centennial Complex. The shuttle runs every 30 minutes.
  • Vespers with Stories of Unsung Heroes and Organist Kimo Smith on Friday, March 2, at 7 p.m. in the Loma Linda University Church sanctuary.
  • A Prayer Walk at the Mission Globe on the Centennial Pathway beginning at 7:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 3.
  • Sabbath School/Parade of Flags on Saturday, March 3, at 9 a.m. in Drayson Center.
  • Church Service on Saturday, March 3, at 10:30 a.m. in Drayson Center.
  • Homecoming Haystacks, the quintessential Adventist meal, served in the large tent at Drayson Center Field on Saturday, March 3, at 12 noon.
  • The Mission Vespers at 4 p.m. on Saturday, March 3, in the Loma Linda University Church sanctuary.
  • A special Homecoming Concert featuring Kevin K.O. Olusola from the Grammy-winning vocal quintet, Pentatonix, and talented alumni of Loma Linda University. The concert takes place on Saturday, March 3, at 7 p.m. in Drayson Center.
  • 5K Fun Run/Walk on Sunday, March 4, at 8 a.m. at Drayson Center.
  • A Pancake Feed on Sunday, March 4, from 9 to 11 a.m. inside the tent at Drayson Center Field.
  • A Pickleball Tournament on Sunday, March 4, at 8:30 a.m. at the Drayson Center Pickleball Courts. Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in North America. Open to players of all ages and abilities.
  • The inaugural One Homecoming Golf Tournament will be held on Sunday, March 4, at 9 a.m. at Tukwet Canyon Golf Course in Beaumont. For more information on the course, see https://tukwetcanyon.com.

One Homecoming also features a wide variety of continuing education courses. For information on courses offered by the schools of Allied Health Professions, Behavioral Health, Dentistry, Nursing, Public Health, Pharmacy and Religion, visit www.llu.edu/homecoming. For information on continuing education courses offered by the School of Medicine, visit http://www.apc.llusmaa.org/#aboutapc.

For information about One Homecoming, visit www.llu.edu/homecoming.

]]>
Wed, 21 Feb 2018 16:10:41 -0800
4264:33568 <![CDATA[Health care leaders focus on future challenges and organization mission]]> By Larry Becker Approximately 125 top-level administrators from all six hospitals joined administration from Loma Linda University Health and the Faculty Medical Group to focus on the next wave of health care reform during a two-day retreat held January 18-19 in the Coachella Valley.

Fred Bayon, a representative from The Advisory Board, a national health care research and consulting firm, shared insights on how the delivery of health care is undergoing significant change. How Loma Linda University Health navigates these changes will determine the pathway to future success, he said.

The group also participated in a variety of team-building activities, culminating in a service project that served as a reminder of the real focal point of the organization’s mission.

The 13 administrative teams were assigned to assemble two bicycles, both a boy’s model and a girl’s model. One retreat attendee called this task “team building with a higher purpose.” The teams also ran the assembled bikes through an obstacle course to ensure each bike’s quality.

“We spent several hours learning about each other by working on creative challenges ending with a bicycle assembly project,” said Kerry Heinrich, JD, chief executive officer of Loma Linda University Medical Center. “This is part of growing together as a team, but it’s now our privilege to share the results of our efforts as we reconnect with former patients of our Children’s Hospital and give back to the community.”

The 26 bikes were intended for patients of Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital. Three Coachella Valley families were invited to the retreat, and the 12 children in those families were each invited to choose a bike. These children are former Children’s Hospital patients, and over the years their families spent many hours driving many miles to receive care at our facility. These children represent the many residents of the Coachella Valley who will benefit from the opening of the new Indio Outpatient Pavilion, which will begin serving the community in March.

The remaining bikes were brought back to Loma Linda, where they will be given to future Children’s Hospital patients.

]]>
Wed, 21 Feb 2018 16:09:26 -0800
4264:33566 <![CDATA[Good food for a good cause]]> Head out to BJ’s Restaurant in Corona tonight for an evening of good food for a good cause. Local California Highway Patrol officers will be serving dinner 4 to 9 p.m. All tips collected by the CHiPs will be donated to Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital. Bring in the attached flyer at any time during the day Thursday, Feb. 22, and BJ’s will donate 20 percent of your bill to the hospital.

BJ’s is located at 2520 Tuscany Street, Corona, 92881.

]]>
Wed, 21 Feb 2018 16:08:33 -0800
4264:33564 <![CDATA[Wholeness Health Plan wellness discount for university employees ]]> University employees wishing to qualify for the Wholeness Health Plan’s wellness discount must complete the A-B-C activities below by March 11, 2018. 

A: Assessment and Account — Complete the online Health Risk Assessment and create a MyChart account if you do not already have one.

B: Biometric screening — Complete a biometric screening at one of the many locations on campus.

C: Care managementThis step only applies to employees or covered spouses who receive an invitation.

To get started on the requirements, follow these three steps:

One: Visit myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole/planrequirements.

Two: Print out the Quick Guide for “Current University Health Plan Members.” This guide contains the instructions and the usernames and passwords needed for the biometric screening and Health Risk Assessment sites. To ensure a convenient time for the biometric screening, make an appointment as soon as possible. Appointments fill up quickly.

Three:  If an employee or a covered spouse was sent an invitation for care management in the past, they will need to complete the entire program or a series of appointments/activities by Sunday, March 11, 2018.  

]]>
Wed, 21 Feb 2018 16:07:52 -0800
4264:33562 <![CDATA[Ask the Expert: Cancer Screening and Prevention]]> Loma Linda University Health’s Living Whole Wellness Program is hosting a free live-streamed presentation on cancer screening and prevention on Wednesday, February 28th, from 5:30-6p.m. Tune in to learn more about the most important ways to prevent and screen for common cancers.

Viewers will be able to ask questions and interact with featured speaker Mark Reeves, MD, PhD, Loma Linda University Cancer Center director.

The live stream will be available at myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole/wellnesslive or on the LLUH’s Facebook page.

For more information, call 909-651-4007

]]>
Wed, 21 Feb 2018 16:06:54 -0800
4264:33560 <![CDATA[LLIFT Brings New Online Requisitioning Process for LLUH]]> In support of One LLUH, Loma Linda University Health (LLUH) is implementing an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system to manage both Supply Chain and Finance.  The LLIFT target go-live date is Monday, March 5, 2018.

One of the benefits of the new system is an online process for all purchase requisitions and capital requests. Online requisitioning allows requesters to have visibility into the status of their purchase requisition.  It also enables our suppliers to submit their invoices electronically, which streamlines our matching process and significantly reduces our processing time.

As a reminder, a purchase requisition is an authorized request for the purchase of goods and services through the LLUH Purchasing Department.  A purchase requisition is required when a purchase order (PO) needs to be issued to a supplier.  Based on the purchase requisitions’ dollar value, it will be automatically routed through the appropriate levels of required approval.  Once approved, a purchase order will be generated and the order will be placed.

Additional changes for invoicing and issued checks:

  • Suppliers will now send invoices directly to the Centralized AP Team (not to departments).
  • Checks will no longer be held for pick-up in our finance offices.  All checks will be mailed directly to the recipient, deposited via ACH, or paid by credit card.

Intercompany service requests:

  • We anticipate some changes to the Intercompany Service Requisition Process. Please look for the details in a future communication.

Employees who have been identified as needing purchase requisition access will receive an email with a link to the online training course in early March.  The LLIFT Project Team worked with LLUH Leadership and Management to identify the individuals across the organization who need to have Purchase Requisition access in the new system.

If your department has not yet designated an employee who will submit Purchase Requisitions:

  • Before March 2:  The department manager can submit an email to the LLIFT mailbox LLIFT@llu.edu.  The email must include the cost center number(s) and employee information (full name, user ID, and email address) for the employee who will submit departmental purchase requisitions. 

 

For example, a sample Requester email sent to LLIFT@llu.edu would include:

Cost Center #:  123456  Employee Name:  John Doe  User ID:  jdoe  Email:  jdoe@llu.edu

 

  • Starting March 5:  Enter a service request in ServiceNow or call the service desk at ext. 48889.  This will trigger the necessary steps to provide your department with the proper system access.

If you have questions about this process or the upcoming LLIFT implementation, visit our LLIFT OnePortal page, where you will find updated program FAQs, information about training, and a list of changes that will be implemented as of go-live. You can also email us directly: LLIFT@llu.edu

]]>
Wed, 21 Feb 2018 16:06:16 -0800
4264:33558 <![CDATA[Dermoscopy workshop and skin screen free to LLUH faculty, residents and students]]> Loma Linda University Health employees are invited to a free skin screening Friday, March 2, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. During the screening, dermoscopy will be used to examine the appearance of the skin. Dermoscopy consists of using a handheld device to examine the skin and is useful for diagnosis of skin cancer.

The free skin screening is being offered in conjunction with the Basics of Dermoscopy, a hands-on workshop that is being held during the 86thAnnual Postgraduate Convention.

The Hands-on Basics of Dermoscopy Workshop, which offers 2.50 CME credits, is offered at no charge for Loma Linda University Health faculty, residents and medical students. To register as a participant in the workshop, visit apc.llusmaa.org. Please note that space is limited to the first 48 to sign up for the hands-on workshop.

]]>
Wed, 21 Feb 2018 15:59:04 -0800
4264:33556 <![CDATA[School of Religion to examine Masterpiece Cakeshop in Feb. 24 forum]]> The Humanities Program at Loma Linda University School of Religion is sponsoring an event examining a U.S. Supreme Court case on freedom of religious belief and civil liberties in the marketplace.

Two prominent lawyers will address the Masterpiece Cakeshop case in the program “Masterpiece Cakeshop Case: Equality, Dignity, and Religious Liberty” on Saturday, Feb. 24, at 3 p.m., in Damazo Amphitheater in Centennial Complex, 24760 Stewart Street, Loma Linda.

The Masterpiece Cakeshop case involves Jack Philips, a baker in Lakewood, Colorado who refused to make a wedding cake for Charlie Craig and David Mullins because he felt their same-sex union violated his Christian beliefs. A series of lower courts have sided with Craig and Mullins, but the Supreme Court heard arguments on December 5. The Court’s decision is expected soon.

Two attorneys, David Cruz and Alan J. Reinach, will examine if creative businesses can refuse certain services due to their First Amendment rights of free speech and free exercise of religion in light of public accommodation laws. The duo will break down the case for a lay audience, explain the key arguments, and discuss the implications for the intersection of religion and law.

David Cruz, Professor of Law, University of Southern California, is a constitutional law expert focusing on civil rights and equality issues, including equal marriage rights for same-sex couples. Alan J. Reinach, JD, is Executive Director of the Church State Council, the religious liberty educational and advocacy arm of the Pacific Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, which represents five western states: Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada and Utah. 

Loma Linda University is a Seventh-day Adventist educational institution that integrates health, science and Christian faith. Encouraging respect for diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds, the heritage and global mission of Loma Linda University is to encourage personal and professional growth through knowledge, skills, values, attitudes and lifestyle choices. 

For more information, contact the Humanities Program by calling 909-558-7478 or emailing humanities@llu.edu

]]>
Wed, 21 Feb 2018 15:58:13 -0800
4264:33554 <![CDATA[Five tips to be heart healthy at work]]> By Dr. Ravi Mandapati Most people spend the work week stressed out, constantly hunched over computers and eating erratically. Ravi Mandapati, MD, director of the Loma Linda University International Heart Institute gives some tips on how to help avoid heart disease. Here are five ways to make your work life heart healthy.

Drink it in. Instead of grabbing a soda, drink water. Water helps you stay alert and refreshed, and helps your heart do its job.

Chew on this. Bring healthy snacks from home. Make sure to keep healthy snacks — like nuts, fruits and veggies — at your desk that you can munch on when hunger strikes.

Like to move it, move it. Make sure to get up and move hourly. Revitalize yourself by going outside and taking a refreshing walk around your office building.

Here comes the sun. Take breaks to get some fresh air and sunshine. Make sure to get your daily dose of vitamin D by getting outdoors every day.

Take time to unwind. To calm yourself from a hectic day, you could sit and meditate quietly for a few minutes, take time to pray or call a loved one for a word of encouragement.

Good heart health can't be achieved overnight, which is why it’s important to incorporate certain habits into your daily routine. Try adding one of the five tips above to your schedule every week, and before you know it, these few small changes can improve your heart health.

]]>
Wed, 21 Feb 2018 15:57:03 -0800
4264:33552 <![CDATA[When someone staggers, help steady the load — a devotional]]> By Dilys Brooks The phrase, "Pull yourself up by your bootstraps" communicates the idea that we can improve our situation by our efforts. This phrase is synonymous with our culture in North America. However, I often wonder how well this adage stands up during times of crisis. Who can you rely on when there is a terminal diagnosis, problems in a marriage or when needing to care for aging parents? Where do you go for support when treatments do not work, funding falls through or if you face an uncertain future? Who can we trust to advocate on our behalf when we find ourselves between a rock and a hard place? 

In 1 Samuel 20, David becomes a fugitive striving to elude the King's plans to end his life. He does not attempt to navigate the uncertainty that looms if he leaves his wife Michal, and Saul's service. In this moment of crisis, David goes to Jonathan for help, guidance and support. I marvel at the friendship these two men shared. 

Jonathan was the heir apparent as the first-born son of King Saul. David was anointed heir to that same throne, chosen by God to establish the kingdom of Israel. Their roles and responsibility did not preclude them from being friends, "brothers from different mothers." At first, Jonathan finds it challenging to accept David's assessment of the King's actions towards him at Ramah (1 Samuel 19), but then Jonathan truly listens.

As crucial as it is during a crisis to have a friend, a friend who is able and willing to listen is invaluable. There are two benefits of good listening we can glean from the story that are pertinent to our context as staff and students of Loma Linda University Health.

The first is mutual trust. Authentic listening engenders respect and trust between “the speaker” and “the listener.” David could rely on his friend to be there for him in his time of need. He did not have to go it alone. 

The second benefit of good listening is problem-solving. When Jonathan grasped the deep concern of his friend, the two of them devised a plan to discern the king's true feelings toward David.

I have personally benefitted from having people in my life that I can rely on when I am facing tough decisions or encounter incapacitating circumstances. While it is true that I have my faith to rely on, I am equally thankful that I have individuals with whom I have developed mutual trust. They have also helped me to problem-solve and create new ways to diffuse conflict.

In the case of David and Jonathan, we see their commitment to being supportive of each other grow into a covenant that would benefit Jonathan's descendants for generations. As an organization determined to continue to the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ, we must learn to listen to each other, develop mutual trust, create solutions for problems we encounter and decide to support one another during hard times.

I'll swap the adage of pulling myself up by my bootstraps for Galatians 6:2; "Share each other's burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ." Will you join me? 

— Dilys Brooks, MDiv is the associate campus chaplain at Loma Linda University

 

]]>
Wed, 21 Feb 2018 15:43:52 -0800
4264:33528 <![CDATA[LLIFT Brings New Online Requisitioning Process for LLUH]]> In support of One LLUH, Loma Linda University Health (LLUH) is implementing an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system to manage both Supply Chain and Finance.  The LLIFT target go-live date is Monday, March 5, 2018.

One of the benefits of the new system is an online process for all Purchase Requisitions and Capital Requests.  Online requisitioning allows Requesters to have visibility into the status of their Purchase Requisition.  It also enables our Suppliers to submit their invoices electronically, which streamlines our matching process and significantly reduces our processing time.

As a reminder, a Purchase Requisition is an authorized request for the purchase of goods and services through the LLUH Purchasing Department.  A Purchase Requisition is required when a Purchase Order (PO) needs to be issued to a Supplier.  Based on the Purchase Requisitions’ dollar value, it will be automatically routed through the appropriate levels of required approval.  Once approved, a Purchase Order will be generated and the order will be placed. 

Additional Changes for Invoicing and Issued Checks:

  • Suppliers will now send invoices directly to the Centralized AP Team (not to Departments).
  • Checks will no longer be held for pick-up in our finance offices.  All checks will be mailed directly to the recipient, deposited via ACH, or paid by credit card.

Intercompany Service Requests:

  • We anticipate some changes to the Intercompany Service Requisition Process. Please look for the details in a future communication.

Employees who have been identified as needing Purchase Requisition access will receive an email with a link to the online training course in early March.  The LLIFT Project Team worked with LLUH Leadership and Management to identify the individuals across the organization who need to have Purchase Requisition access in the new system.

If your department has not yet designated an employee who will submit Purchase Requisitions:

  • Before March 2nd:  The department manager can submit an email to the LLIFT mailbox LLIFT@llu.edu.  The email must include the cost center number(s) and employee information (full name, user ID, and email address) for the employee who will submit departmental Purchase Requisitions. 

For example, a sample Requester email sent to LLIFT@llu.edu would include:

Cost Center #:  123456  Employee Name:  John Doe  User ID:  jdoe  Email:  jdoe@llu.edu

 

  • Starting March 5th:  Enter a Service Request in ServiceNow or Call the Service Desk at ext. 48889.  This will trigger the necessary steps to provideyour departmentwith the proper system access.

If you have questions about this process or the upcoming LLIFT implementation, visit our LLIFT OnePortal page, where you will find updated program FAQs, information about training, and a list of changes that will be implemented as of go-live. You can also email us directly: LLIFT@llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 15 Feb 2018 11:52:15 -0800
4264:33523 <![CDATA[Anderson Street to undergo construction, paving Feb. 22]]> By Janelle Ringer The city of Loma Linda will renovate a section of Anderson Street, between Barton Road and Lawton Avenue, beginning Thursday, Feb. 22.

The process will begin with grinding of the street, and be followed by paving on Friday, February 23.

The city will also install stripping on the same area between the March 1 and 2.

For any questions, please contact the City of Loma Linda by calling 909-799-2830.

]]>
Thu, 15 Feb 2018 11:48:56 -0800
4264:33521 <![CDATA[Student and community art sought for special exhibit during One Homecoming weekend]]> By James Ponder Loma Linda Cultural Arts Association has issued a call for entries for artworks to hang during a special art exhibit timed to coincide with Loma Linda University Health’s One Homecoming Weekend. The exhibit, which opens Feb. 27 and runs through April 3, is jointly sponsored by the Student Expressions of Art Society (SEAS) and LLCAA. 

“The exhibit is designed to showcase the wide variety of visual art in our community,” says Lenore Roth, acting president of LLCAA. “We want to give visiting alumni something to enjoy during One Homecoming, and to allow student and community artists from the Inland Empire to showcase their talent,” Roth said.

Roth said artworks in any two-dimensional media are welcome, including paintings, drawings, photography, lithography and quilts. No pieces depicting nudity or violence will be accepted. 

Roth also said there are two different deadlines for artists to submit work for the show: students must bring their work to the Office of Student Affairs for approval on or before Tuesday, Feb. 20, and must bring the Student Affairs acceptance form with them to Drayson Center on Feb. 27. All other artists must bring their work directly to Drayson Center any time between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Feb. 27. All pieces must be ready for hanging with a sturdy wire hanger.

“There are no prizes or awards for this show,” Roth added. “We just want to be able to share our gifts with our visitors and friends.” 

]]>
Thu, 15 Feb 2018 11:46:44 -0800
4264:33519 <![CDATA[No need to plead for support, the victory has been won]]> By Kathy McMillan Saul listened to Jonathan and took this oath: “As surely as the Lord lives, David will not be put to death.” 1 Samuel 19:6 

David was in serious trouble. King Saul, jealous of David's success, was determined to kill him. Everyone knew that it was useless to argue with the king; he always got what he wanted. Also, to counter Saul put one's own life in jeopardy. But there was one who was willing to risk his life: Jonathan, the king's son, advocated for his best friend, David.

“Father, don't try to harm David. He has benefited you greatly. He risked his own life when he fought Goliath. You were happy with the rest of us and realized that God had won a great victory for us. Why do you now want to kill an innocent man?” This plea from Jonathan worked for a time, and Saul promised that he would not kill David.

The abuse of power is common in popular culture today, just as it was back then. The one with the loudest voice, the strongest opinion or greatest financial means wins, leaving little room for those who are weak and defenseless. But that is not the environment that a Christian culture promotes.

Jonathan should have been the next in line for the throne of Israel. Yet he was willing to submit to God's choice of David as the next king. He risked being in the bad graces of his father to speak up for David.

Advocacy carries inherent risks. The advocate must often choose between being popular, loved and accepted or being ridiculed, black-listed and hated. It takes courage to advocate for the vulnerable.

I regularly hear stories of advocacy here at LLUH that warm my heart:

A student has been a victim of domestic violence. Several of her teachers show up at court to support her.

A brand-new employee loses everything in a house fire. The employee assistance fund provides help during a difficult time.

Colleagues of a medical assistant discover that she doesn't have money to celebrate Christmas with her young children. They pool their resources, buy a tree and surround it with wrapped gifts for her family. 

Jesus is our advocate. It is through His death that our sins have been forgiven.  The scriptures also teach us that He continues to be our advocate even now. We have the opportunity to extend the grace He's given to us — all across this campus, continuing the ministry of Jesus. May advocacy thrive in our midst!

—Kathy McMillan, MA, is the director of Employee spiritual care at Loma Linda University Medical Center

]]>
Thu, 15 Feb 2018 11:44:41 -0800
4264:33427 <![CDATA[Loma Linda University Children's Health to host internal rebranding rollout party]]> The research process on rebranding the current Loma Linda University Health Children’s Hospital (LLUCH) began last fall in an effort to bolster the LLUCH brand and connect all pediatric services. Now, leadership invites staff and employees to attend a come-and-go event at the Children’s Hospital, room 1830-1832, to give employees a sneak peek into the nearly completed campaign.

The rollout party will take place on Tuesday, March 6, from 6:45 a.m. — 8:30 a.m., and again from 3 p.m. — 7:45 p.m.

Attendees can learn about the history of the brand process, information on the tagline and logo, as well as where campaign advertising can expect to be seen when it rolls out in mid-March.

In addition to providing a sneak peek, the event will also include giveaways, refreshments and the chance to learn more about the brand ambassador opportunities. 

]]>
Thu, 08 Feb 2018 09:44:43 -0800
4264:33425 <![CDATA[Loma Linda University Health performs Southern California's first Vercise implant to treat Parkinson's disease]]> By Genesis Gonzalez A new, innovative deep brain stimulation (DBS) system, called Vercise, was successfully implanted in an 81-year-old patient with Parkinson’s Disease at Loma Linda University Health, the first such procedure in Southern California and the fourth in the nation to utilize the DBS device to treat Parkinson’s.

Loma Linda University Health neurologist Khashayar Dashtipour, MD, PhD, and neurosurgeon Miguel Lopez-Gonzalez, MD, FACS, performed the groundbreaking implant of the Vercise device last week.  

The procedure involves the implant of a thin wire — called a lead — into the patient’s targeted brain region. In this particular case, the patient received electrodes on each side of the brain, including the battery. Electrical stimulation is delivered via the lead, which helps control abnormal brain activity that causes tremors, stiffness or slow movement.

“This device opens more doors for Parkinson’s patients in need of deep brain stimulation,” Lopez-Gonzalez said. “With time, we will be able to monitor the device’s progress and hopefully determine if this is more beneficial.”

In December 2017, the FDA approved the Boston Scientific device, the third approved device in the United States for performing DBS.

The rechargeable device was first approved in Europe following various clinical trials. It has been used to increase precision and avoid common side effects of DBS therapy that affects the brain beyond the intended target. It offers a multi-source constant current, allowing flexible control of stimulation that adapts to individual physiologies, impedance variabilities, and disease progression.

“For the first time, the battery has a 15-year life,” Dashtipour said. “With the increasing risk of surgery after a certain age, our patient will not have to undergo surgery in three to five years as with other devices.”

Dashitpour was able to successfully turn on the device just three days following the procedure and will adjust the levels according to the patient’s comfortability. His goal is to keep the patient “on condition” meaning throughout the day. The patient will hopefully experience zero to minimal side effects, including tremors and stiffness. 

Patients who experience dystonia, or abnormal movement, suffer from consistent tremors and have been prescribed various medications are considered prime candidates for the Vercise implant.

The Vercise’s electrical system is designed to give both doctors and patients greater control over the current applied at the individual electrodes, regardless of the resistance at the end of the wire. DBS delivers targeted electrical stimulation to specific regions of the brain to help treat symptoms of Parkinson’s. 

According to the Parkinson’s Foundation, the neurodegenerative disorder affects approximately 1 million people in the U.S. and 10 million worldwide. The disease is a progressive movement disorder that primarily affects the dopamine-producing neurons in a specific area of the brain. Over time, the disease causes tremors, slowness of movement, limb rigidity and balance difficulties. 

The implant is currently covered by insurance. Loma Linda University Health Department of Neurology is accepting patients at this time.

For more information, visit lluh.org/movement or call 909-558-2880.Photo caption: Loma Linda University Health is the first in Southern California to perform a Vercise implant to treat Parkinson’s disease. Khashayar Dashtipour, MD, PhD and Miguel Lopez-Gonzalez, MD, FACS performed the procedure at Loma Linda University Medical Center last week.

]]>
Thu, 08 Feb 2018 09:42:53 -0800
4264:33423 <![CDATA[Thank You for Your Participation]]> By Heather Reifsnyder Thank you for your participation in the Employee Engagement Survey.

Employees hired prior to June 23, 2017, across LLUH (except LLU participating in spring 2018) were invited to participate in the survey and share their feedback. Of the 12,000 employees invited to participate, 73.6% responded.

Loma Linda University Health partnered with The Advisory Board Company to administer the survey.

Responses are completely confidential.

Every leader with access to survey results will spend time reviewing and analyzing the results. They will be asked to share the survey results with their teams. You will likely be asked to provide suggestions and feedback to guide post-survey actions. Combined with survey results, all suggestions and feedback will be used to create an action plan. The action plan is a tool that helps teams plan what steps will be taken to increase employee engagement. Teams will be asked to regularly follow up on the progress that has been made on that plan. Our hope is to keep employee engagement conversations at the center of all that we do to drive positive change and create a culture of engagement across Loma Linda University Health.  

Our employees are the heart of the organization. Creating an environment where employees are engaged and feel valued is a top priority for every leader across Loma Linda University Health. The feedback we receive from the survey provides guidance as we work to influence positive change across the organization. Your input is valued, and thank you for your participation in the 2017 Employee Engagement Survey.

For more information about the Employee Engagement Survey contact Human Resource Management at ext. 14001; humanresources@llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 08 Feb 2018 09:41:21 -0800
4264:33422 <![CDATA[Sometimes listening is seeing — a devotional]]> By Terry Swenson Sometimes listening is seeing. Does that seem counterintuitive? Actually, it is somewhat absurd. It mixes senses and metaphors. Listening is hearing. Seeing is-well, seeing! It's audio versus visual. Yet, sometimes listening is seeing. To illustrate what I'm trying to convey, let's look at two stories in 1 Samuel 18.

Our first story involves two young men who were prominent in the public scene. One was King Saul's son, Jonathan. The other was an up-and-coming warrior and hero to the nation of Israel. His name was David. The same David who had been anointed by God to replace Saul as king. You would think that would make Jonathan — the heir apparent — and David archenemies. However, according to 1 Samuel 18:1-4, this was not the case. Both men became kindred spirits.

“After David had finished talking with Saul, he met Jonathan, the king's son. There was an immediate bond between them, for Jonathan loved David. From that day on Saul kept David with him and wouldn't let him return home. And Jonathan made a solemn pact with David because he loved him as he loved himself. Jonathan sealed the pact by taking off his robe and giving it to David, together with his tunic, sword, bow, and belt.”

Jonathan doesn't just say they were friends; he makes a covenant with David. His actions clearly "speak" of that bond. Listening is seeing. Words are solidified through actions. This becomes even more evident when we read the rest of the chapter and look at the interactions between David and King Saul. 

Saul becomes jealous of David's popularity with the people. His jealousy exhibits itself in plots to bring about David's death. Not overtly, but through deception. What is ironic about Saul's actions are that his words of fidelity to God were not demonstrated in his behavior towards the people, Samuel or David. When we listen to Saul, we see that his words and actions do not match up.

“One day Saul said to David, 'I am ready to give you my older daughter, Merab, as your wife. But first, you must prove yourself to be a real warrior by fighting the Lord's battles.’ For Saul thought, ‘I’ll send him out against the Philistines and let them kill him rather than doing it myself.’” (1 Samuel 18:17)

Here again, we note that Saul says he loves David, but his actions bear a different witness. Sometimes listening is seeing!

Are there any implications for us as we work together at Loma Linda University Health? Our mission statement and values are the litmus test used by our students, patients and partners to see whether or not we are walking our talk. Here are a few questions that we can reflect on to see if we are listening. 

When patients interact with front office employees around our medical institutions, do courteous greetings only mask disengaged actions? We may hear words proclaimed that we are a caring academic environment, but do students see those words that they listened to lived out through the actions of their professors? When each of us encounters one another as we move about LLUH and ask, “How are you doing,” do we really want to know, or is it just a way of greeting and hastily moving on?

Remember as we strive “to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ,” listening is seeing it reflected in our actions.

]]>
Thu, 08 Feb 2018 09:40:11 -0800
4264:33390 <![CDATA[Notes from the President — Feb. 1]]>   February 2018  
One Homecoming will build upon last year's success

“Richard

Together was and is better; also, announcing an executive personnel change

I am not sure how many years it takes to create a tradition, but probably more than two. However, we are developing a tradition here at Loma Linda University Health with our second annual One Homecoming, in which all alumni gather to celebrate and reminisce during the same weekend.

One Homecoming starts on Sunday, Feb. 25, at our new San Bernardino campus, where we’ll host a “Community Plant Your Future” event from 1-4 p.m. This will feature vegetarian cooking classes, gardening techniques and other special educational and tasting activities.

The next day, Monday, Feb. 26, will start the 7th International Congress on Vegetarian Nutrition. This has become a once-every-five-years event, drawing participants from around the world. From Monday through Wednesday, it will cover the latest research and useful information on a plant-based diet.

Thursday, March 1, will be a full day of interdisciplinary continuing education: Whole Notes Conference: Bridge the Gap — Clinical Communication, followed by continuing education classes starting on Friday, March 2. You can see the variety of topics on our website at llu.edu/homecoming.

Friday also starts the mission-focused Homecoming activities at 7 p.m. in the University Church featuring some of our “Unsung Heroes.” Our alumni and staff do amazing things where they serve, and we have selected just a few of those stories to tell. I won’t spill the beans here, as that would not let them remain “Unsung!” The program will open with music from Kimo Smith on the pipe organ. 

All are welcome Saturday, March 3, in the Drayson Center starting at 9 a.m. Our traditional parade of flags will begin the program, followed by a feature on “Missions is a Family Affair.” The program will feature service in Africa, including stories told by the Netteburg / Bland families about their unique challenges of serving in Bere, Tchad. It demonstrates amazing commitment and sacrifice, surrounded by danger, with rewards that balance things out. We’ll also hear a report about a group of students back from a mission trip to Nigeria. Our church service will be given by Randy Roberts and will be streamed back into the middle service at the University Church for those who remain there.

Sabbath lunch will again be our trademark haystacks in the big tent, where last year we served more than 1,600 people in efficient, record time. The afternoon is a composite of class and school functions, visiting and walking the campus. At 4 p.m. in the University Church, we will have our Mission Vespers, coordinated by the Medical Auxiliary, where more adventures and future plans will be shared by alumni, faculty, residents and students.

Saturday night we’ll be back in Drayson at 7 p.m., with the first half of the program featuring the remarkable talent of our alumni and students. For the second half, we are privileged to have Kevin K.O. Olusola with us from Pentatonix. Kevin’s parents have roots here in Loma Linda and we are delighted they have agreed to come back and share his story and music with us. And for those with energy left, there is a morning 5k run on Sunday, March 4, followed by a pancake breakfast and later more continuing education classes. Several of our schools will have banquets during the weekend, and those times will be announced separately to alumni of those schools. The usual School of Medicine APC Gala will be held Sunday evening.

Last year some worried about crowding and capacity. We did fine and will welcome even more this year. We’re in an age where “tribalism” seems to be invading all cultures, separating us by our differences. It is time for Loma Linda University Health to continue celebrating our common commitment to serving this world. We have done this for 113 years, and people need our brand of caring more than ever before.

I look forward to seeing you here in a few weeks.

Finally, in an organization this large, personnel changes are inevitable, and we are losing one of our valued senior leaders. After 14 years as the CFO of the combined Loma Linda University Health enterprise, Kevin Lang, CPA, MBA, has decided it is time to move on. He would like to spend more time caring for his family businesses after the recent death of his father, relaxing with his new grandson and pursuing other opportunities. Kevin has been an invaluable part of our senior leadership team, pulling all our support services together into Loma Linda University Shared Services, helping to develop and place our bond offerings, and most recently, leading in the Loma Linda Integrated Financial Transformation project, which has unified our various financial systems on campus. Please join me in thanking him for a job very well done. He will be missed.

Our two Senior VP’s for Finance, Angela Lalas and Rod Neal, will carry the workload as we review our structures and conduct a formal search for a new CFO.

We’re off to a great start in 2018. Thank you for what you do to make this place a remarkable institution of teaching and healing.

“Richard

 

 

 

Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health 

Vision 2020 – The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow

 

You are receiving this e-mail because you are a faculty member, employee, graduate, student, or friend of Loma Linda University Health and you have provided your e-mail address to us. To unsubscribe from future e-mails sent by the president, please click here to unsubscribe. Any correspondence sent to president@llu.edu will be read and processed by a member of the office of public affairs.

Office of the President, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350

Copyright © 2018 by Loma Linda University

llu.edu

 

Save

]]>
Thu, 01 Feb 2018 11:11:02 -0800
4264:33383 <![CDATA[GHI to host seminar on global snakebite epidemic]]> By DonaJayne Potts The Loma Linda University Health Global Health Institute will host a Global Conversations seminar about the global snakebite health crisis from 6-8 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 15, at Damazo Amphitheater at Centennial Complex. The event will include a screening of the film “Minutes to Die, Snakebite: The World’s Ignored Health Crisis,” a panel discussion with snake venom researchers and experts, and a live snake exhibit.

Immediately following the program, the first 30 registrants may tour the on-campus Earth and Biological Sciences Laboratory, which houses venomous snakes from around the world.

Tickets for the event are free, but space is limited and pre-registration is required­ through the OWL PORTAL.

The event is worth 2.0 CE/1.0 CME. 

Panel Members scheduled to appear:

  • Matthew Lewin, MD, PhD, global leader in snake venom therapies, assistant professor at University of California, San Francisco
  • William Hayes, PhD, MS, professor of biology, Loma Linda University
  • Brian Wolk, MD, emergency medicine physician, Loma Linda University Medical Center

Snakebite is the cause of death globally for nearly 10,500 people each month — nearly 125,000 deaths a year. In addition, some 400,000 people each year will suffer from life-long health complications such as disfigured limbs or amputation. Victims are often shunned and marriage for young girls becomes unlikely. In nearly every snakebite endemic country, costs for treatment force families into years — or even a lifetime — of debt to pay for medicines, hospital bills or long-term care.

Snakebite is a constant fear among global citizens in rural areas — farmers, children and homemakers — because interactions with venomous snakes are inevitable as snakes seek food sources among crops and water inside thatched homes. In 2017, the World Health Organization (WHO) added snakebite to its list of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs). WHO requires governments of snakebite-endemic countries to make snakebite a priority by providing their people with an available supply of quality, effective and affordable antivenom treatments.

For additional information about the event, call 909-558-9770 Ext. x49770 or email jsilva@llu.edu.

Please register for the event here, or by visiting https://ce.llu.edu/cm.esp?id=28&pageid=_3320XZEZZ&showpage=coursedet&course=S000039652&start=eiscript

]]>
Thu, 01 Feb 2018 09:42:59 -0800
4264:33382 <![CDATA[New York Times reporter Kolata to speak at Loma Linda University Health ]]> By Janelle Ringer The Center for Christian Bioethics will host New York Times science reporter and best-selling author Gina Kolata in the upcoming program, “Genetic Testing: Would You Want to Know.” The event will take place at 3 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 10 in the Damazo Amphitheater in Centennial Complex, 24760 Stewart St., Loma Linda. 

Kolata will address attendees on the topic of genetic testing for gene mutation, which is a focal point of her latest book Mercies in Disguise. The book is a non-fiction work on the subject of hope through science. Kolata is a senior medical writer with the Times, the author of nine books, and a two-time Pulitzer finalist.

The Center for Christian Bioethics was founded in 1984 by physician and professor of religion and Christian ethics Jack W. Provonsha and has developed a tradition of bringing key thinkers, scholars and public figures to Loma Linda University Health to preserve the heritage of thinking about ethics and medicine in the subject of faith.

For more information about the Feb. 10 event, visit https://religion.llu.edu/bioethics/upcoming-events or call 909-558-4956.

]]>
Thu, 01 Feb 2018 09:41:03 -0800
4264:33381 <![CDATA[LLUH's Center for Restorative Neurology named ALS Association Certified Treatment Center of Excellence]]> By James Ponder The Center for Restorative Neurology at Loma Linda University Health has received recognition as a Certified Treatment Center of Excellence from the ALS Association, a designation that marks the Center as one of the select few in the nation that meets the highest standards of evidence-based, multidisciplinary care and services.

At the Center, ALS patients — people with suspected or definite diagnoses of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or Lou Gehrig’s disease — can see all their care providers in a single appointment, unlike most treatment programs, which require patients to visit different providers and locations.

Medical Director Jeffrey Rosenfeld, MD, PhD, says the center received notification of the designation last month.

Rosenfeld says the center is designed to make care simpler for patients with ALS and other neurodegenerative diseases. He notes that, “there are hopeful alternatives for patients at every stage of disease progression. One early goal of the program is to get the patients to embrace and expect that.”

Rosenfeld says the Center stands out in numerous significant ways. He says that at other centers, the care team may only get together once a month to focus on neurodegenerative diseases. But the Center for Restorative Neurology Team is full-time and available to patients five days a week. “Synergy is the core benefit of our center,” he says. “When your co-workers are all physically next to you, traditional work silos vanish. The brainstorming is phenomenal.”

Another benefit is having all the staff in one place so that patients have improved access to the staff, he says. “Sometimes a patient can’t find me because I’m treating another patient,” Rosenfeld says. “But if they tell one of the other team members that they are trying to get in touch with me, they only have to go down the hall to tell me.”

“Patients frequently come to us with fear, the most powerful of all disabilities,” Rosenfeld says. “The most important thing that happens from having so many resources in one place is the sense of hope that is conveyed, and hope is the most powerful treatment for fear.”

“They’re afraid of what’s going to happen to them next,” Rosenfeld says. “The only treatment for addressing their fear is hope, and that comes when patients experience the opportunity of getting help at a place like this.”

The Center is one of only 58 ALS Association Certified Treatment Centers of Excellence in the United States. The ALS Association is dedicated to fighting the disease, raising funds and promoting research, education, public awareness and appropriate public policy.

The Association’s clinical care and treatment standards are based on the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) Practice Parameters. The association requires that centers desiring to be certified as a Center of Excellence must successfully complete a comprehensive site review. Achieving certification through successful completion of the program’s robust clinical and administrative reviews confirms to people living with ALS and their family members the validity and comprehensiveness of the Certified Treatment Center of Excellence’s standards of quality and implementation of best practices.

The Center for Restorative Neurology is located inside the Neurology Clinics of the Faculty Medical Group at 11370 Anderson Street, Suite B-100, in Loma Linda. For additional information or to schedule an appointment, please call 909-558-5978.

]]>
Thu, 01 Feb 2018 09:39:51 -0800
4264:33380 <![CDATA[A young man and a head]]> By Carla Gober-Park A young man stands with head in hand — not his, but another’s — and acts as if it is a regular day.

“Whose son are you?” King Saul is curious, not about one of the strangest feats in battle history, nor of unexplained bravery. He wants to know whose son David is.

What does it matter? It is irrelevant. The battle is won. It is over. But to King Saul, it is the question. He asks it first when watching David march out to battle Goliath. Turning to his commander, Abner, he asks, “Whose son is he?” Abner doesn’t know, so immediately after the battle, Abner grabs David and whisks him off to King Saul.

Having just cut off Goliath’s head, David still holds it in his hand. The head swings back and forth, brushing his clothes and skin with blood. He arrives in front of the king – dirty, sweaty and bloody, “still holding the Philistine’s head.”

“Whose son are you?” King Saul is insistent, as he should be.

This is no small children’s story. This is the introduction of David, a written “apology” for why he should be king, the first chapter of his biography. And it is a good one. It sits in contrast with the “apology” for Saul as king where Saul looks for his father’s donkeys who are lost.

David goes back and forth between the battle front and his father’s sheep (over 15 miles) to make sure the sheep are in good hands. He talks of killing lions and bears on the sheep’s behalf.

Saul is handsome. David is handsome as well as brave. The Israelites want a king who will “go out before us and fight our battles.” (1 Samuel 8:20). In the current story, it is David who steps up, not Saul.

This story sets the stage for something larger — a future king who is worthy of being king. But a larger point emerges at the end of the chapter.

“Whose son are you?” The answer to this question sets the stage for something much larger because this is the question that matters.

“I am the son… of Jesse...”

This young man David, this “stripling” as King Saul suggests, has no idea that he has been called forward by Someone much larger than King Saul. This passion in his belly to set himself up against anyone who defies “the armies of the living God” is a sacred passion, a holy anger and he is hard-pressed to believe that no one else is coming forward. Someone must stop this, and if no one else, then he will do it! Everyone looking on, as well as David himself, sees this as the last resort. This is not the course of choice.

Here intersects the “apology” of David as king, a young shepherd boy, a current king who has lost hope and the call of God.

“I am the son . . . of Jesse . . .” Seventeen verses in the New Testament declare Jesus “the son of David.”

For example, a Canaanite woman screams at Jesus on behalf of her demon-tormented daughter, “Have mercy on me, Lord, Son of David.”

Two blind men sit in the road scream out as Jesus passes, “Lord, have mercy on us, Son of David.” This is more than a statement of lineage. It is a statement of believed divinity. The son of David is the long-hoped-for Messiah.

“I am David — the son of Jesse . . .” is more than lineage. It is prophetic. Out of this lineage will come the Messiah — the Messiah! Compared to what they have just witnessed, a future event will rock the world in ways this stoning of Goliath is only a foretaste. 

This may be the “apology” for David as king, but it is a larger “apology” for Jesus as the Messiah — one who is everything — “the root and the descendant of David, the bright morning star” (Rev 22:16). 

This young man David will achieve earthly glory, no doubt, but larger still is his place in forwarding the kingdom of God. 

Consider if we were to write our own story on paper. When we stare at that blank page, we all have to decide where the story begins. For Saul, it is lost donkeys. For David, it is tending sheep and fighting Goliath. For you or me, it will be different, but there is a beginning story of some kind.

To differing degrees, we all achieve some sort of earthly glory. But there is a larger question at hand. As we stand before God with spoils in hand, sweaty, tired and bloody from life’s battle, will the lineage be clear? Did we forward the kingdom of God? 

“Whose son are you?” Whose daughter are you?”

“I am . . .”

—Carla Gober-Park, PhD, MS, MPH, is the Assistant Vice President for Spiritual Life and Mission Loma Linda University Health.

 
]]>
Thu, 01 Feb 2018 09:38:10 -0800
4264:33309 <![CDATA[Our strong work with influenza epidemic draws national media attention]]> Administrative message from Trevor Wright, Chief Operating Officer of Loma Linda University Medical Center

There is power in a group of people who work together toward a shared goal. This was seen through the extraordinary commitment by each of you in dealing with the influx of patients caused by the influenza epidemic. Your hard work and determination to provide our patients the best quality care in a safe environment received widespread attention and coverage from local and national media.

Below are just a few of the more than 100 broadcasts, print and online media recognitions Loma Linda University Medical Center received treating the flu:

The Today Show

Good Morning America

The Weather Channel

NPR-All things considered

AARP.org 

Los Angeles Times 

AOL.com 

Our sincere thanks to each of you for ensuring every patient receives the very best possible care we can provide. You are living up to the heart of our mission statement — to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ. We thank you for all you are doing for our patients during this particularly challenging time and to help us in achieving our goal of maintaining the overall health and well-being of our patients, visitors and hospital staff.

]]>
Thu, 25 Jan 2018 10:54:30 -0800
4264:33307 <![CDATA[The flu vaccine: Better late than never]]> By Genesis Gonzalez There’s still time to get the flu vaccination. With this year’s increased risk of the flu, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highly encourages individuals over the age of six months to get a flu shot. 

“The flu vaccine is the best and number one way to prevent the flu,” says Adrian Cotton, MD, chief of medical operations at Loma Linda University Health.

Children and seniors are at higher risk of developing flu symptoms, which can include a fever, cough, muscle aches, and fatigue.

According to the CDC, individuals should typically get the flu vaccination as soon as it becomes available; however, getting it later can still be beneficial. “The vaccine can still prevent the flu virus now and in the future,” Cotton says. “If a patient were to get the vaccine now, it can help them both this year, and in the long run.”

Flu viruses vary from year to year. It’s not always easy to predict which strain of the flu virus you will be exposed to, Cotton says. The length and severity can also vary depending on the season. A flu season typically begins in October and ends at the end of March.

The current flu season has emerged as one of the worst in the past 10 to 15 years, with the H3N2 strain dominating most flu cases. Cotton says 70 to 90 percent of the flu across the country has been the H3N2 strain, although those percentages are changing as the flu season progresses. Though the current vaccination is designed to help protect against the H1 strain, Cotton encourages people to still get the shot. He says the H1 strain is quickly gaining ground and it’s best to avoid that particular strain with the vaccination.

“Even though the flu vaccination was created to fight off one particular strain, those who get the shot are more likely to have protection against a future flu strain as opposed to those who do not,” Cotton says.

The flu vaccination can take approximately two weeks for antibodies to develop in the body. The CDC reports a peak in the flu season is expected in another two weeks, Cotton says, and he encourages both children and adults to get their vaccination now rather than not at all.

Learn more about flu prevention and for tips on when a person experiencing flu symptoms should go to the emergency room. 

]]>
Thu, 25 Jan 2018 10:52:56 -0800
4264:33305 <![CDATA[New crane names might surprise you]]> Thank you to everyone who submitted their suggestions. Submissions are now closed, and the two winning names our cranes will have for their time with us here at Loma Linda University Health have been selected. We were appreciative of the collection of creative and humorous submissions we received, and want to thank everyone for their effort.

We are excited to award the winners of the Name the Cranes Challenge: Shelly Moore from the Marketing department and Holly Bernardi from LLUCH Pediatric Craniofacial Team Center.

Their submission(s) of “Mac” and “Cheese” have been selected as the two crane’s new names! 

Moore and Bernardi will have the exclusive chance to take selfies with “Mac”, the bigger crane, and will receive a tour of the construction site. Thank you again for your participation!

]]>
Thu, 25 Jan 2018 10:51:02 -0800
4264:33303 <![CDATA[Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine receives $2.6 million from NIH]]> The Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine at Loma Linda University (LLU) School of Medicine recently received a grant for more than $2.6 million to fund a program that has vastly increased the number of highly qualified minority students in biomedical doctoral programs.

The award from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences, part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), will continue to support the implementation of the “LLU-NIH Initiative for Maximizing Student Development program” (LLU-NIH IMSD). The program supports the graduate training of PhD students in the Integrative Biomedical Graduate Program at LLU School of Medicine.

Marino De León, PhD, serves as director of the IMSD program and principal investigator for the award. Carlos A. Casiano, PhD, and Daisy De León, PhD, serve as co-investigators and associate program directors.

The LLU-NIH IMSD program was established in 2001, and has become a cornerstone of Loma Linda University Health’s health disparities pipeline program, which offers summer research internships and career development activities to high school, college and medical students. Since its inception, the program has awarded more than 600 summer internships to burgeoning biomedical students.

“These students gain exposure to biomedical research and high-quality academic career developmental activities,” De León said. “These experiences expand their participation in college and postgraduate STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) degrees and biomedical research.”

 Prior to the program’s establishment, only 9 percent of the graduating PhD class in biomedical and behavioral fields at LLU were underrepresented minorities, but the program has been successful in attracting increased numbers of highly qualified minority students. In 2016, underrepresented minorities comprised 39 percent of the graduating PhD class in biomedical and behavioral fields. According to a 2017 National Science Foundation report, less than 8 percent of underrepresented minority students pursuing higher education (including undergraduate degrees) in the U.S. earned a doctorate in a STEM field.

LLU is one of approximately 50 institutions nationwide that have received competitive funding as an NIGMS IMSD training site. The new grant will provide 10 competitive awards to qualified students conducting their PhD studies in the School of Medicine. The fellows will participate in a rigorous evidence-based curriculum that complements formal training and conduct research under experienced LLU research scientists.

Over the past 15 years, the program has supported 51 PhD fellows — 26 of whom have already completed graduate training. Most IMSD alumni are currently pursuing postdoctoral studies or working in academia, government and pharmaceutical companies.

The IMSD fellows are required to participate in service-learning activities, and they are trained through a personalized development plan tailored to their strengths. The LLU-NIH IMSD program was one of the first in the nation to implement these features in order to improve academic research efficacy.

As a result of the interventions, students participating in the program have completed their PhD education at a rate higher than national levels. During the last 15 years, students participating in the LLU-NIH IMSD program exhibited a 2.8 percent attrition rate, far below the average attrition rate of 50 percent, according to the Council of Graduate Schools.  

]]>
Thu, 25 Jan 2018 10:49:53 -0800
4264:33301 <![CDATA[Employee celebration events scheduled for January and February]]> The leaders of Loma Linda University Health have announced their desire to begin 2018 by saying “thank you” to all employees and hosting a series of employee recognition events at various locations across the campuses.

The receptions will feature snacks and refreshments, and note cards will be provided for employees to write messages of appreciation to each other.

The schedule and locations of the events at Loma Linda University; LLU Medical Center, Children’s Hospital, East Campus, Behavioral Medicine Center, Murrieta, Surgical Hospital and LUH Beaumont-Banning; and LLUH 101 Building are available on the one portal.

Employees from all entities may attend any of these events by bringing their badge.

]]>
Thu, 25 Jan 2018 10:48:08 -0800
4264:33299 <![CDATA[Scientific Poster Session to feature research now open for submissions]]> Submissions are now being accepted through Feb. 19 for the Scientific Poster Session at the Annual Postgraduate Convention. The Scientific Poster Session is set for 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, March 4 and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, March 5 in the Centennial Complex at Loma Linda University.

Oral presentations by researchers with faculty and student judging with prizes will take place on March 4.

All are welcome to attend the Scientific Poster Session to learn about the latest research performed at Loma Linda University Health.

Participants are encouraged to submit posters directly to the website through the online submission platform (see instructions below). Alternatively, contributors may submit an abstract following the guidelines. Further information regarding the program and formatting of posters will follow in email blasts to those who have registered on the site. 

Submission may be performed by following the URL below:

  1. Type http://scholarsrepository.llu.edu/llu-student-journal/ into the URL bar.
  2. Click “Submit Article” on the left-hand side.
  3. If you have not created an account, click “Sign up now” and follow the steps.
  4. You will be presented with a short summary of the submission process.

Click here for more information, or visit apc.llusmaa.org

]]>
Thu, 25 Jan 2018 10:46:52 -0800
4264:33297 <![CDATA[Facing giants — a devotional]]> By Carl Ricketts Jr. In the context of pleasing God, genuine motives generally produce genuine behaviors. Conversely, impure motives generally produce impure behavior — a fruit of its kind.

David is sent to the battlefield on legitimate business by his father. He is asked to bring nourishment and encouragement to his older brothers, who along with the nation of Israel, are facing a giant.

The Message’s version of 1 Samuel 17:17–19 says: One day, Jesse told his son, David, "Take this sack of cracked wheat and these ten loaves of bread and run them down to your brothers in the camp…Check in on your brothers to see whether they are getting along all right, and let me know how they're doing — Saul and your brothers, and all the Israelites in their war with the Philistines in the Oak Valley."

The young shepherd has learned "Heart of God" lessons in obscurity. These have prepared him to face colossal situations in public. These instructions absorbed in times of silence and solitude revealed God as the source of wisdom, power, strength, joy and favor. David has been anointed to be king in private, and yet he walks into a public arena without the title and accolades. And while no one is perfect, David's motives and interest in the battle come from a genuine place, because he has a genuine passion for God. Saul's kingly decision — to offer a sacrifice to God instead of waiting on Samuel the prophet — was driven by an impure motive. In fact, it was a sacrifice born from Saul's disobedience. God did not ask for it.

First Samuel 16:12–13 says: Jesse sent for him. He was brought in, the very picture of health-bright-eyed, good-looking. God said, "Up on your feet! Anoint him! This is the one." Samuel took his flask of oil and anointed him, with his brothers standing around watching. The Spirit of God entered David like a rush of wind, God vitally empowering him for the rest of his life.

We witness a shift in power. Yet, it is not the change we would have expected. What we discover is that it is not in the title, the role or the position. It is seen in the connection to God. Saul's disconnection from God is not revealed publicly. He continues to serve as the King chosen by God. Yet Saul no longer serves with confidence. David, though still a shepherd boy, remains connected to the power of God as he boldly approaches a defining moment in his life.

What can we learn from 1 Samuel 17? At a time when we face the biggest challenges of our lives, we realize that disobedience to God, jealousy and dissonance with the "Heart of God" is a recipe for disaster. In fact, victory over our modern-day giants will only come when we stay connected to the voice, will and way of our loving Father.

To face the giants in our lives, we need a secure, heart-to-heart connection with God. Perhaps we can draw a lesson from David, who spent time listening and responding to the voice of God. 

Your success will prove most genuine when your desire is to please The Lord.

 

]]>
Thu, 25 Jan 2018 10:42:20 -0800
4264:33206 <![CDATA[Temporary visitor requirements at Medical Center due to severe flu season]]> Loma Linda University Health is implementing new visitor limitations within the hospital due to the high volume and severity of flu cases being seen this season. While these temporary policies may cause inconveniences, our goal is the overall health and well-being of our patients, visitors and hospital staff.

Effective immediately, visitors must be 18 years of age or older, and must not be showing any evidence of influenza symptoms, including fever, chills, cough, sore throat, runny nose, body aches or headache.

We continue to monitor flu activity levels inside the hospital and in the surrounding community. These visitor restrictions will remain in place as long as necessary while influenza is widespread in our area. The intensity of this flu season requires us to carefully limit all patients’ exposure to the influenza virus.

We thank you for all you are doing for our patients during this particularly challenging time.

Click here for more information about prevention of the flu and for tips on when you should go to the Emergency Room.

]]>
Thu, 18 Jan 2018 09:54:26 -0800
4264:33205 <![CDATA[ New NICU opens at Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta ]]> Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta has opened its new neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) as part of a comprehensive plan to provide families and their newborns the care and comfort they need throughout the post-delivery process.

The six-bed facility is a Level II NICU, enabling hospital staff to take care of the most common problems that can occur with premature infants born at or after 32 weeks gestation. This care can include short-term mechanical ventilation, treatment for jaundice, help with feeding, or treatment with antibiotics. The unit accepts readmits up to 28 days old for certain diagnoses, including sepsis infection.

LLUMC – Murrieta delivers over 900 babies each year, with 8 to 10 percent of those newborns in need of additional special care.

The new NICU offers six private rooms designed to allow parents to stay overnight in the same room as their baby, a unique feature that isn’t currently offered by providers in the area. The rooms mirror an open bay concept with three walls and a curtain track in each. In addition, the state-of-the-art unit offers: 

  • Lactation support to help ensure high exclusive breastfeeding rates
  • Top perinatal department per patient satisfaction scores
  • Direct access to Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital (LLUCH) and highest levels of expertise
  • Family-centered care

“No mother, father or family should have to spend a minute away from their child,” said Peter Baker, JD, MBA, administrator of Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta. “Our new NICU will restore the connection between a newborn and their family during a critical time when support is needed the most.”

The hospital currently offers labor and delivery support, a skin-to-skin bonding program following delivery, 24/7 family visits, classes and support groups, and nursery care. The NICU will be staffed by neonatal experts from LLUCH.

LLUMC – Murrieta and LLUCH are part of Loma Linda University Health, a faith-based health system, providing education, training, research and care to the Inland Empire community.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was celebrated in October in honor of the new unit. The ceremony was attended by numerous public officials, with special remarks from Jeff Stone, California State Senator, Rick Gibbs, mayor of the city of Murrieta, and Neil Winter, mayor of the city of Menifee.

Kerry Heinrich, JD, CEO of Loma Linda University Medical Center addressed the audience as the community of Murrieta welcomed its first NICU.   

“Our goal, our vision and our dream was to bring Loma Linda University Health physicians and our pediatric expertise with the talented individuals we have in our Children’s Hospital to this community,” Heinrich said.

Guests were also introduced to the Ridley family, who shared their journey to have their beautiful daughter, Emree. Their daughter was in need of critical care following her birth and experienced the difficulties of traveling back and forth to LLUCH.

“Having to travel a significant distance to the hospital increases stress and financial obligations,” said Ryan Ridley, Emree’s father. “The availability of the new and local NICU in Murrieta is very exciting and will be very beneficial to families in the community in the event these medical services are needed.” 

Families in the Murrieta community will also have the opportunity to experience expanded outpatient children's services — set to open within a few months — that will offer specialty care in pediatric cardiology, urology, neurology and other services.

For more information about the new NICU or other services at Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta, visit murrieta.lomalindahealth.org. Tours of the NICU are available by calling 951-290-4070.

]]>
Thu, 18 Jan 2018 09:50:45 -0800
4264:33203 <![CDATA[Nursing department launches journey to Magnet status]]> Loma Linda University Health has launched a multifaceted program designed to bring Magnet status to its clinical nursing program. Magnet recognition is the highest level of validation for nursing excellence and is granted to health care organizations by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). Application to participate in the Magnet status program was submitted in mid-November.

“Magnet status is universally recognized as the ‘gold standard’ of excellence in patient care,” said Holly Yelorda, Magnet coordinator for Loma Linda University Health’s nursing administration. “Organizations that attain Magnet status are consistently able to demonstrate improved patient outcomes, higher staff satisfaction, and the ability to attract and retain top talent. Our executive leadership team is committed to pursuing Magnet recognition in keeping with our values, which include providing safe, patient-centered care and our vision to innovate excellence.”

The application submission triggers a two-year maximum timeline for Loma Linda University Health to submit a document to the ANCC that outlines how the organization’s culture, structure and processes exemplify Magnet standards. Once that document is submitted, ANCC will send a site-visitation team to evaluate Loma Linda University Health for Magnet designation. 

The application outlined basic information about the organization, such as the names, positions and education of all nursing leaders within the institution, Yelorda said. It required information about the Chief Nursing Officers, such as name, educational background and vitae.

“We needed to demonstrate we have basic structures and processes in place that align with the magnet requirements,” Yelorda said. We needed to show that our nursing leaders sit in executive level positions of influence that impact organizational change beyond the scope of nursing. Further, that nursing is included in key decision-making groups, such as the Institutional Review Board. The application process looked at our framework as workforce at Loma Linda University Health, but the document submission process will flesh all of those areas out in specific examples that demonstrate excellence.

During the two-year application phase, nursing groups will identify and develop examples of Loma Linda University Health’s commitment to the components of the Magnet model — transformational leadership; structural empowerment; exemplary professional practices; new knowledge, innovations and improvements; and focus on outcomes.

“Our goal is to demonstrate a culture where interprofessional team members work together to support the organization’s plan for improvement and for first-class patient care,” Yelorda said. “The work happening at Loma Linda University Health involves more than just nursing staff. It involves all of the various patient care disciplines working together, along with administration, clinical support and ancillary support team members. Wherever nursing is impacted by the decisions of these groups and beyond, it means that nurses should be a part of that discussion.”

Information about Loma Linda University Health’s journey to Magnet status will be updated regularly on the One Portal’s Magnet page.

]]>
Thu, 18 Jan 2018 09:42:49 -0800
4264:33201 <![CDATA[Vote to select the winning Crane Names]]> Thank you to all who submitted names for the Name the Cranes Challenge. Loma Linda University Health invites employees and students to vote for their choices starting Thursday, Jan. 18 and ending Wednesday, Jan. 24.

Vote for up to two names (a single pair of names or two individual names, listed at the beginning of the list) for the cranes while they are helping to build the new hospital towers.

The winner will be announced Thursday, Jan. 25 in News of the Week and will receive a selfie with the crane and a tour of the construction site.

https://one.lluh.org/vip/General/News-and-Announcements/vote-crane-names


• Vote for up to two names (a single pair of names or two individual names) you would like to see the cranes named while they are helping to build the new hospital towers.
• Winner(s) will be determined by votes on the website and from the Campaign Construction Events Task Force.
• Only one entry per email address is allowed.
• Name(s) will be announced on Thursday, Jan. 25 in News of the Week.
• Name submitter(s) will receive a selfie with the crane and a tour of the construction site.
• Have fun!

]]>
Thu, 18 Jan 2018 09:36:57 -0800
4264:33199 <![CDATA[Pediatric Express Care for Evening and Sunday hours]]> The clinic’s hours are 4-8 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. on Sundays. It is closed Saturdays and holidays.

Before driving to the emergency department or urgent care, consider Pediatric Express Care for a sick child. 

The clinic offers a convenient walk-in option for parents during non-business hours.

For information about insurances accepted, call 909-558-2828.

The clinic is located at 25845 Barton Rd. in Loma Linda.

Pediatric Express Care service at Loma Linda University Health offers walk-in, non-emergency treatment for sick children on weekday evenings and Sundays.

The clinic’s hours are 4-8 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. on Sundays. It is closed Saturdays and holidays.

Before driving to the emergency department or urgent care, consider Pediatric Express Care for a sick child. 

The clinic offers a convenient walk-in option for parents during non-business hours. 

For information about insurances accepted, call 909-558-2828.

The clinic is located at 25845 Barton Rd. in Loma Linda.

]]>
Thu, 18 Jan 2018 09:35:39 -0800
4264:33195 <![CDATA[Empower Retirement comes to Loma Linda University ]]> Empower Retirement will provide education on retirement planning strategies for staff members of Loma Linda University. Empower Retirement representatives will be on campus starting Jan. 30 in Wong Kerlee at 11175 Campus Street.

The meetings, available by appointment, provide an opportunity to discuss financial issues or concerns about an employee’s financial well-being at no additional cost as a part of the LLU retirement plan. Some benefits included in the plan that can be discussed include tax-deferred savings, tax-deferred compound growth and a variety of investment choices.

 

DateTimeLocation
Jan. 30 & Feb. 1 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Shearer & Heidar Room
Jan. 31 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Hispanic
Feb. 2 8:30 am - 2:00 pm Shearer & Heidar Room

To schedule an appointment, e-mail marula.blue@empower-retirement.com  

]]>
Thu, 18 Jan 2018 09:32:26 -0800
4264:33193 <![CDATA[Wholeness Health Plan wellness discount for university employees ]]> University employees wishing to qualify for the Wholeness Health Plan’s wellness discount must complete the A-B-C activities below by March 11. 

A: Assessment and Account — Complete the online Health Risk Assessment and create a MyChart account if you do not already have one.

B: Biometric screening — Complete a biometric screening at one of the many locations on campus.

C: Care management — This step only applies to employees or covered spouses who receive an invitation.

To get started on the requirements, follow these three steps: 

One: Visit myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole/planrequirements. 

Two: Print out the Quick Guide for “Current University Health Plan Members.” This guide contains the instructions and the usernames and passwords needed for the biometric screening and Health Risk Assessment sites. To ensure a convenient time for the biometric screening, make an appointment soon. Appointments fill up quickly. 

Three:  If an employee or a covered spouse was sent an invitation for care management in the past, they will need to complete the entire program or a series of appointments/activities by Sunday, March 11. 

To learn more about the Wholeness Health Plan Wellness Discount, click here to watch a short video.

 

]]>
Thu, 18 Jan 2018 09:27:27 -0800
4264:33191 <![CDATA[A bad story with a good lesson]]> By Randy Roberts For me, 1 Samuel 15 is one of the toughest passages in the Bible. In it, through Samuel the prophet, King Saul receives divine instructions to destroy the Amalekites. Such a command brings us face-to-face with the question of violence and warfare in Scripture. That issue creates a profound perplexity for many. How do we approach this theme? Why is such an awful story in the Bible? And, if we are listening for the Spirit, what might we hear?

Consider first, briefly, some background on this specific chapter. Teacher and minister John Allister, writing on matthiasmedia.com, says this:

“The Amalekites weren’t just any old people. They were the nation who more than any other tried to destroy Israel. They had been trying to eradicate and plunder Israel from the very birth of Israel, 200–400 years before the command in 1 Samuel 15, and they would continue for another 600 years.

“That explains some of the background to the conflict in 1 Samuel 15. It shows that what is being commanded is an act of war in a conflict which the Israelites didn’t start, and which was never going to be resolved by negotiation.” 

There are still legitimate questions, but that, at least, provides some context. 

But how do we relate to such passages? And, in our lives, thousands of years later, what do they mean? When I read such passages, I try to remember three things.

First, these times in the Old Testament are somewhat similar to the times of the Old West in American history (or any such time in any nation). Times are chaotic. The law belongs to the powerful. Bad things happen often. And life is cheap. 

Second, in the Old Testament, there is very little said about a devil or Satan. It is not until New Testament times that we begin to understand that concept. As such, in the Old Testament, most unexplainable things — good or bad— get attributed to God.

And third, and most important, Christ-followers have always affirmed that God’s ultimate revelation comes in Jesus. That it is not until the Christ-event that the brightest light is shined onto the face of God; that it is not until Jesus comes that we most fully understand God. What that means is when we struggle to understand something, the best place to which we turn is to Jesus. We look to Jesus. We follow Jesus. We listen to Jesus. Jesus becomes the final word on how we are to understand God.

For me, that means that when I read 1 Samuel 15, I remember the New Testament is yet to come, and I say, “Thank God Jesus is coming!” For us all, it means that we live by an ethic that says, “Turn the other cheek” (Matthew 5:39). We practice a love that says, “Love your enemies” (Matthew 5:44). We make choices based on phrases such as, “Overcome evil with good” (Romans 12:21). And we listen most closely to the One who said, “If you have seen me, you have seen the Father” (John 14:9).

First Samuel 15, then, can become a bad story with a good lesson: in all the situations of life, listen carefully and closely to Jesus. 

]]>
Thu, 18 Jan 2018 09:18:58 -0800
4264:33145 <![CDATA[Help prevent the flu with these five steps]]> By Genesis Gonzalez This year’s flu season has been especially challenging, not only in this country but worldwide. Preventive actions to stay healthy can help avoid spreading the virus to others.

This year, the flu has surpassed the last 10 to 15 years as one of the worst, according to Adrian Cotton, MD, chief of medical operations at Loma Linda University Health. Here in the United States, the virus began in mid-October on the East Coast and quickly spread to the West Coast by the end of the year. It has plagued many emergency rooms in California, with Loma Linda University Health seeing an extra 60 patients a day. 

With a steady rise in the flu virus, it’s critical for patients to discern between the flu and a common cold to avoid further health complications. “Going to an emergency room for a cold just puts patients at risk for catching influenza,” Cotton says.

The best ways to prevent the flu are: 

1.         Get a vaccination

2.         Wash hands often

3.         Avoid contact with others

4.         Cover the mouth after a cough

5.         If possible, stay out of the emergency room, which is open to additional germs and illnesses.

Patients are encouraged to contact their primary physician first to address cold and flu-like symptoms. If a primary physician is unable to help, then patients can consider going to an emergency room, says Cotton.

Cotton recommends a child should only visit the emergency room for the following reasons:

•          Bluish skin color

•          Dehydrated

•          Trouble breathing or chest pain

•          Not waking up or not interacting

•          Fever with a rash

•          Not eating

•          Flu-like symptoms improve but return with a fever or worse cough

Adults should only go to the emergency room for the following reasons:

•          Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

•          Severe or persistent vomiting

•          Chest pain

•          Confusion

•          Flu-like symptoms improve but return with a fever or worse cough 

Individuals with a cold will often experience signs of a runny or stuffy nose, according to the CDC. A cold can be treated by over-the-counter medications and if necessary, treated by a family physician. Flu symptoms can be more life-threatening if not treated properly and quickly, Cotton says. Flu symptoms include muscle or body aches, fever or chills, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headaches and fatigue.

Children over six months and adults are encouraged to get a flu vaccination every year.

“More often than not, individuals pass the flu to others before they experience the symptoms themselves,” Cotton says. 

The following individuals are at higher risk of developing the flu:

•          Adults over the age of 65

•          Children under the age of five

•          Women who are pregnant

•          Individuals with asthma

•          Individuals with chronic lung disease, heart disease or blood disorders

“The flu is a serious illness and it should be treated that way,” Cotton says. In the past, the flu has resulted in 12,000 to 56,000 deaths per year according to the Centers for Disease Control estimates.

Prevention is key to help reduce the spread of the flu, and it starts with a vaccination.

“There are really no good reasons not to get the vaccine unless you had a prior allergic reaction or have had a rare complication called Guillain-Barre,” Cotton says.

The more individuals who are vaccinated, the less chance that influenza will make you ill, the greater chance of reducing time out of work or school and spreading the virus among family members and co-workers.

]]>
Thu, 11 Jan 2018 10:53:05 -0800
4264:33144 <![CDATA[Hollywood media pundit Ted Baehr to speak at Loma Linda University]]> Baehr will discuss his success in the entertainment business as a Christian

Ted Baehr, an accomplished critic, educator, lecturer, media pundit and founder of Movieguide, will speak at Loma Linda University at 3 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 13 in the Damazo Amphitheater of Centennial Complex on the Loma Linda University campus.

Baehr will offer insight on maneuvering through Hollywood’s entertainment business as a Christian with a clear mission to redeem values from the mass media and to educate audiences on using proper discernment in selecting entertainment. With a background in comparative literature, law and theological studies from universities such as Dartmouth College, Columbia University and New York University, he is an influential voice to faith communities and beyond having appeared as a featured guest on Oprah, Hannity and Colmes, CNN, ABC, Fox News, MSNBC and Entertainment Weekly.

His work has been featured in numerous publications, including The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times and Time Magazine. Baehr was president of the organization that produced The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, Witch, and the Wardrobe for CBS-TV in 1980, boasting 37 million viewers and winning an Emmy Award. 

Baehr will be joined by three panelists: 

  • Garrett Caldwell, DMin, MDiv, has served as Executive Director of Public Affairs at Loma Linda University since 2015. He previously served as public relations director at the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists for seven years as the point of contact between the media and the church while also consulting for Adventist leaders and communicators around the world on public relations, reputation management and crisis communication. In addition to his public relations expertise, Caldwell is experienced in teaching, pastoring, leadership and filmmaking. He earned a bachelor’s and graduate degrees from Oakwood University, Andrews University and Wesley Theological Seminary.
  • Maranatha Hay is a four-time Emmy-Award Winner and has experience as an editor, director, cinematographer, writer, producer and actress. She started Tower Films, a full-service video production company, in 2011 and her team’s work has been featured on PBS, the BBC and National Geographic. Although best known for Stocked Love (2016), Skeleton Woman (2017) and Baby Blue (2009), she has directed and edited more than a dozen films to bring awareness of diseases and disasters affecting countries such as Liberia and the Philippines. Hay won four additional Emmys from these documentary films, and she also helped raise more than $1 million for nonprofit organizations.
  • Jason Satterlund has been writing and working on films for over 25 years. He has extensive experience in all areas of production, including directing, writing, cinematography and editing. He travels the world producing feature films, television series, commercials, music videos and documentaries. Satterlund wrote and directed the award-winning feature film The Record Keeper, which premiered at the Raindance Film Festival in London and is currently on the worldwide festival circuit. When he isn't busy directing his own projects, he enjoys teaching filmmaking workshops, shaping the filmmakers of the future. 
]]>
Thu, 11 Jan 2018 10:44:45 -0800
4264:33143 <![CDATA[Financial consultant available for Loma Linda University faculty ]]> One-on-one consultant meetings available at no charge 

All faculty employees at LLU may receive free sessions with professional financial consultant Matthew Morgan from TIAA. These meetings provide an opportunity to discuss financial issues or concerns about employee’s financial well-being at no additional cost as a part of the LLU faculty retirement plan.

One-on-one consultant meetings available at no charge.

DateTimeLocation
January 22, 2018 9am-4pm 5th Floor Prince Hall-Founders Conference Room
February 22, 2018 9am-4pm 5th Floor Prince Hall-Founders Conference Room
March 21, 2018 9am-4pm 5th Floor Prince Hall-Founders Conference Room

Register for a session at www.TIAA.org/schedulenow or by calling 800-732-8353, weekdays, 5 a.m. to 5 p.m.

]]>
Thu, 11 Jan 2018 10:43:11 -0800
4264:33142 <![CDATA[Leading with bold faith — a devotional]]> By Dilys Brooks Bold leadership requires remembering what God has already done

The story that unfolds in 1st Samuel 14 is riveting and fascinating. The chapter begins with the oldest son of King Saul taking a daring venture into enemy territory. The newly formed kingdom of Israel is at war, facing off with their enemies, the Philistines. The enemy assembled 30,000 chariots and 6,000 horsemen (1st Sam 13:5). The sight of their opponent causes the men of Israel to flee in despair. The fledgling regent with his farmers — turned soldiers — are at a huge disadvantage. King Saul had 600 men and the grandson of the High Priest. Their enemies were seasoned fighters who possessed the right implements for war. King Saul’s men had nothing. To state that they were at a disadvantage would be an understatement. There were only two soldiers in the entire Israelite army who had swords — the King and his eldest son Jonathan. Can you imagine with me the thoughts of the army with each passing day? “Does the king know what he’s doing?” “Can we trust his leadership?” “We are outnumbered and not equipped. Why are we here?”  

Here is where the story becomes even more interesting. Jonathan, the eldest son of the king, sees the same thing that his father, the high priest and their small army saw, and it inspired boldness. One could call it stupidity or the impatience we often find in those who are inexperienced. Regardless of what we call it, Jonathan sneaks away with his armor bearer with a foolhardy plan. “Come on, let’s go over to where the Philistines have their outpost” (1 Sa 14:1). Jonathan was a bold leader. The scripture doesn’t indicate that he has studied all the latest tactics in warfare on the rugged terrain that surrounded them and their enemies. What then is the basis of the young prince’s valor? It seems Jonathan had listened to the words of Samuel the prophet and believed that God would fight for them. “Perhaps the Lord will help us, for nothing can hinder the Lord. He can win a battle whether He has many warriors or only a few!” (1 Sa 14:6).

Jonathan had bold faith. He didn’t allow what his eyes saw or the insurmountable odds to cloud or limit his conviction. He believed what he had heard about God’s presence and power. 

Bold leadership requires bold faith. This type of leadership isn’t attached to a personality type. It’s not based on our strengths or preferences. This leadership requires that we listen to God, never forgetting what He has already done.

Over one hundred years ago, our institution was formed on this basic premise: nothing can hinder the Lord. We move forward in this relatively new calendar year facing giants, challenging odds or fluctuating morale as we aspire to fulfill the mission of Loma Linda University Health. I am choosing to listen to what God says: “Then call on Me when you are in trouble, and I will rescue you, and you will give Me glory.” Psalm 50:15 The words of our first bold leader — Seventh-day Adventist Church co-founder Ellen White — also encourage us to be bold in our faith and leadership: “We have nothing to fear for the future, except as we shall forget the way the Lord has led us, and His teaching in our past history." 

Will you join me in bold faith?

—Dilys Brooks is an associate student chaplain for Loma Linda University Health.

 

]]>
Thu, 11 Jan 2018 10:34:10 -0800
4264:33019 <![CDATA[My Way]]> by Kathy McMillan     “What have you done?” asked Samuel.

      Saul replied, “When I saw that the men were scattering, and that you did not come at the set time, and that the Philistines were assembling at Mikmash,  I thought, ‘Now the Philistines will come down against me at Gilgal, and I have not sought the Lord’s favor.’ So I felt compelled to offer the burnt offering.”

      “You have done a foolish thing,” Samuel said. ~1 Samuel 13:11--13 

A disillusioned Frank Sinatra was having dinner with friends in 1968 when he announced, “I’m quitting the business. I’m sick of it; I’m getting out.” One of those he dined with that night soon had an idea that changed everything; he re-wrote a song he had heard in France specifically for Sinatra. The song, "My Way”, went on to top the music charts for 40 weeks and became Frank Sinatra’s signature song. It hit a nerve with a new generation searching for individuality and freedom.

While the lyrics don’t fit the Christian paradigm, it’s likely that we all find ourselves, at one time or another, doing things our way. Sometimes it arises from a belief that our way is truly better than the alternative; other times, fear is at the root of our decision.

Saul, king of Israel, was afraid. The Israelites had attacked the Philistines who responded by assembling 3,000 chariots, 6,000 charioteers and soldiers “as numerous as the sand on the seashore.” Saul had a measly 3,000 men who were divided between two outposts, but they went into hiding at the sight of the Philistine army. 

After seven days of quaking in fear, Saul decided to take things into his own hands. The prophet Samuel had promised he would come, offer sacrifices and pray for Saul’s men, but Saul got impatient. He felt compelled to offer sacrifices to the Lord himself, asking for God’s favor. It seemed like an appropriate thing to do; Saul knew they needed God’s help. But the problem was that it was in violation of the instructions he’d been given. He had been told to wait, but because Saul was afraid, he manufactured his own plan. He allowed fear to propel him to do things his own way. Saul’s story would have had a different ending if he had listened well and followed the instructions given clearly by God.

Thinking back on the history of Loma Linda University Health, one can specifically point to circumstances where our founders listened and followed. How different our story might have been if Ellen White or John Burden had decided to do things their way. Reflecting on our history motivates us to continue to listen, both corporately and individually, and to do things His way.


]]>
Thu, 04 Jan 2018 10:11:53 -0800
4264:33023 <![CDATA[HRM Benefits Fairs]]> The Fall Employee Benefits Fair allowed employees to learn more about the many benefits and services available to them and qualified nine employees for a grand prize: a basket filled with beach-themed goodies such as a blanket, smores kit and more, as well as a $500 Visa gift card. 

During the October 31-November 2 events, booths sponsored by both internal services and external vendors highlighted financial wellness, healthy living, retirement, health benefits, open enrollment information and more. In addition to information, some exhibitors offered product samples, discount coupons, and giveaways. 

Human Resource Management, which hosts the benefits fairs, makes it fun by incentivizing employees to visit the various booths, where they earn stamps in addition to knowledge. Upon completing their stamp cards, employees submit them to a drawing in hopes of winning a prize.

Beyond the grand prize, the other prizes included gifts donated by the vendors (valued at $50 or more) as well as assorted restaurant and retail gift cards ($50 value).

This year, Human Resource Management implemented an employee idea to further improve benefit information accessibility by creating the first-ever Virtual Benefits Fair. The Virtual Benefits Fair provided an opportunity for employees who were unable to attend to have access to the same benefit related information that is provided at the in-person benefits fairs but through a virtual environment.

The employees who registered for the virtual fair and did not attend an in-person fair received give-aways and goodies that were available at the in-person benefits fairs. The giveaway bags were distributed during the month of December. Employees who attended the Virtual Benefits Fair and did not receive their bag should contact Human Resource Management at ext. 14001. 

For more information about the in-person fairs or the virtual fair, contact Human Resource Management at (909) 651-4001 ext.14001; humanresources@llu.edu

 

2017 Fall Benefits Fairs Grand Prize Winners

Joshua Masih – Clinical Nurse B, Psych Adolescent (BMC)

Michelle Antonio – Clinical Nurse B, Unit 1200 (East Campus)

Elizabeth Ugwu-Ude – Case Manager (Medical Center)

Sally Rajcevich- Nurse Clinician, Peds G.I. Lab (Children’s Hospital)

Christopher Bridenstine – Sonographer, Echocardiology (Medical Center)

Sandy Valenzuela – Patient Care Assistant, Medical Acute Oncology (Murrieta)

Jennifer Silva – Program Manager, Global Health Institute (Shared Services)

Melinda Jauregui Galeana – Patient Service Representative, Ophthalmology (UHC)

 

Virtual Benefits Fair

Rhonda Simpson – Administrative Assistant, Peds Neonatal (UHC)

 

 

]]>
Thu, 04 Jan 2018 10:14:58 -0800
4264:33021 <![CDATA[Inaugural Longo Symposium set for January 9]]> By Larry Kidder One of the leading experts in fetal development will give the keynote address at the inaugural Longo Symposium on January 9 at Loma Linda University Medical Center. 

Peter W. Nathanielsz, MD, PhD, ScD, distinguished research professor in Life Course Studies at the University of Wyoming’s College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, will give his presentation “From Womb to Tomb: The Interaction of Developmental Programming and Aging Mechanisms.”

Nathanielsz is one of eight translational research experts speaking at the symposium, which will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Roger W. Barnes Amphitheater on the Medical Center’s A-Level.

“The main purpose of the symposium is to honor Dr. Longo’s legacy in maternal and developmental physiology,” explained Lubo Zhang, PhD, director of the Loma Linda University School of Medicine Lawrence D. Longo, MD Center for Perinatal Biology, “and to inform and inspire those who are interested in basic and translational research in the field.”

Lawrence D. Longo, MD, was an internationally recognized perinatal researcher. For five decades, he studied the regulatory mechanisms in the developing fetus, the role of exercise in pregnancy, the importance of oxygen to both mother and baby and numerous related subjects. He also founded the Loma Linda University School of Medicine’s Center for Perinatal Biology, and served as the Bernard D. Briggs Distinguished Professor of Physiology and a professor of obstetrics and gynecology.

Longo passed away on January 5, 2016, at the age of 89.

“Dr. Longo was the original physician-scientist,” Zhang said, “applying his knowledge and experience in the clinical sector and pursuing research objectives to help solve the problems that mothers and babies face.”

Two decades ago, as part of a National Institutes of Health Program Project Grant, he introduced the Visiting Scientist Program, which continues to bring researchers from around the world to the Center where they lecture to clinical and research faculty, students and fellows.  

“The annual Longo Symposium will honor Dr. Longo’s passion for science and the collaborative spirit of research that continues in our center today,” Zhang added. “We’ve invited four outside speakers and four internal speakers to present at this year’s inaugural symposium. These speakers are national and international leaders and experts in maternal and fetal/neonatal physiology, endocrinology, and neurobiology.” 

In addition to Nathanielsz, external speakers at the inaugural event include Maureen Keller-Wood, PhD, University of Florida; Leslie Myatt, PhD, Oregon Health & Science University; and Philip W. Shaul, MD, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. Speakers from Loma Linda University include Marino De León, PhD; William J. Pearce, PhD; Steven M. Yellon, PhD; and John H. Zhang, MD, PhD.

]]>
Thu, 04 Jan 2018 10:13:23 -0800
4264:33025 <![CDATA[Financial Resolutions for a New Year — SmartDollar]]> After the 2017 holiday season and the spending that comes with it, LLUH has made it easy to focus on financial wellness. The Living Whole Program has paid for LLUH employees and their spouses to sign up for the SmartDollar program and the services included.

SmartDollar is a steady path to handling money with Dave Ramsey, an expert on managing money. Through the use of videos, step-by-step plans and consistent motivation, this program provides those who have enrolled with valuable information on personal finance for every stage of life. For other wellness programs visit livingwhole.llu.edu.

 

To learn more about the financial wellness program, click here.

]]>
Thu, 04 Jan 2018 10:15:58 -0800
4264:33027 <![CDATA[Week of Renewal Schedule — 2018]]> Each year, Loma Linda University Health hosts a Week of Renewal for all students, faculty and employees. As the busyness of 2017 meets the stresses ahead in 2018, the theme of our Jan. 8 through Jan. 12 Week of Renewal is “God Whispers.”

Get full details at LomaLindaRenewal.org, where all 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. services will also be broadcast live (and on hospital channel 402). The website will also host videos of the "I am Listening" programs soon afterward for viewing at your convenience.

The complete schedule is also available for download HERE.

 

MONDAY, JANUARY 8

8:30-9 am I Am Listening* | 1830/32, Children's Hospital

Trevor Wright - Light breakfast served

 

9-10:00 am Prayer Walk | Good Samaritan Statue

 

11-11:50 am University at Worship* | University Church

Aren Rennacker - The Struggle is Real

 

12-12:30 pm Spiritual Renewal | BMC Gym

Carl Ricketts - When God Talks Behind Your Back

 

12-12:30 pm Space for Stillness | Main Lobby, Murrieta Hospital

Guy Snodgrass - Still Small Voice

 

TUESDAY, JANUARY 9 

8:30-9 am I Am Listening* | 1830/32, Children's Hospital

Alex & Jennifer McLean - Light breakfast served

 

11-11:50 am University at Worship* | University Church

Aren Rennacker - Indifference

 

12-12:30 pm Spiritual Renewal | BMC Gym

Terry Swenson - How Do You Know it's God Talking?

 

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 10

8:30-9 am I Am Listening* | 1830/32, Children's Hospital

Tad Worku - Light breakfast served

 

11-11:50 am University at Worship* | University Church

Aren Rennacker - The Good Stuff

 

12-12:30 pm Onsite Spiritual Renewal | BMC Patient Units

 

12-12:30 pm Space for Stillness | Main Lobby, Murrieta Hospital

Roger King - Feeling the Effects

 

THURSDAY, JANUARY 11 

8:30-9 am I Am Listening* | 1830/32, Children's Hospital

Gian Dudley-Simmons - Light breakfast served

 

11-11:50 am University at Worship* | University Church

Aren Rennacker - The Gift of Presence

 

FRIDAY, JANUARY 12 

8:30-9 am I Am Listening* | 1830/32, Children's Hospital

Amanda & Brynn Buchholz - Light breakfast served

 

11-11:50 am University at Worship* | University Church

Aren Rennacker - Last

 

12-12:30 pm Space for Stillness | Main Lobby, Murrieta Hospital

Cheryl Allred - God Knows Your name

 

7:30 pm Concert | Campus Hill Church

Duawne Starling

 

* If you are unable to attend in person, University at Workshop & I Am Listening will be broadcast live each day at lomalindarenewal.org and via tv channel 402  or 17 (LLU).

 

There will also be a winter clothing drive Jan. 9–11 for patients in need at SAC Health System in San Bernardino. Find collection bins at:

• LLUMC lobby

• LLUBMC gym

• East Campus staff lounge

• Drayson Center lobby

• LLUH 101 Building south entrance

 

For additional details contact Kathy McMillan, MA, director of employee spiritual care, at ext. 48406 or kmcmillan@llu.edu.

 

]]>
Thu, 04 Jan 2018 10:17:07 -0800
4264:33033 <![CDATA[Earn academic credit by attending the 7th International Congress on Vegetarian Nutrition]]> By Genesis Gonzalez Join over 700 health care professionals, educators, nutritionists and scientists from around the world at the upcoming 7th International Congress on Vegetarian Nutrition. The three-day conference beginning Feb. 26, 2018, will feature the latest findings on how plant-based diets affect individuals, populations and the planet.

Students and staff who would like to earn credits are encouraged to register for course PHCJ 524 Special Topics in PH Practice: 7ICVN Plant-Based Nutrition.

Course requirements include:

  • 1 unit: Attend conference and submit a conference evaluation.
  • 2 units: Attend conference, plus submit a conference evaluation and summaries of five symposia of your choice.
  • 3 units: All of the requirements for two units, plus a term paper on a topic selected from among the conference topics.

(Note: Please consult with your academic advisor to see if you are eligible to take the course.) 

For those who have completed elective requirements, registration is available online at a discounted fee of $150. Conference registration closes on Feb. 25.

Visit vegetariancongress.org for more information. 

]]>
Thu, 04 Jan 2018 10:18:05 -0800
4264:33041 <![CDATA[Notes from the President — Homeless for the holidays]]> By Richard H. Hart   January 2018   
Homeless for the holidays

“Richard

Volunteer organizations are helping to serve refugees, low-income people in need

She held her composure as she told me about her four-year degree in accounting and the good job she had for years, but as I gently probed further, with only the privacy of thin curtains around us, tears gradually filled her eyes. Alcohol use had gradually consumed her life and she had been disowned by her children. The tears finally overflowed when she told me she had heard that her daughter had just married, and she hadn’t even received an invitation. Now she was homeless in Phoenix, thankful for the air mattress she had just found, with barely enough blankets to protect her against the cold nights. It was clearly not a time to lecture on the dangers of alcohol use or the virtues of good nutrition and exercise. This was life on the edge — the delicate balance between survival and death, the constant search for food and shelter, the plight of too many Americans today.  

I met her over Christmas while volunteering for three days at the “Your Best Pathway to Health” event in Phoenix. The organization arranged to take over the Phoenix Coliseum, recruited 3,300 volunteers from across the country to work December 25-27 and saw almost 7,000 patients. This tremendous effort was spearheaded by my friend, Lela Lewis, MD, a 2001 graduate of the Loma Linda University School of Medicine. Commitment to serve the uninsured is a major initiative of Adventist professionals, who give their personal time at their own expense. This event was the sixth or seventh such event that took place in different cities over the last few years through this program. I wanted to see what happens from the inside. So along with some 400 providers, I signed up to participate as another physician seeing patients.

It was an immense operation, with large sections of the coliseum floor separated into functional curtained units for dentistry, mental health, primary care, cardiology, surgery, women’s health, lifestyle counseling, barber shop and beauty salon, pharmacy, lab and more. Thousands of patients came each day for lab tests, X-rays, donated medication, clothes, and other services — all provided for free. But it seemed clear to me that the most important and powerful part of the event was the personal time that each patient was able to spend with someone who had the time to listen and care.  

The place was filled with Loma Linda University alumni from many disciplines, together with many other professionals, all coming together in a common commitment to serve. There were seven doctors from our own School of Medicine class of 1990 — accomplished professionals who took time away from their families and work to volunteer over Christmas for those few days. It certainly is part of our culture, our raison d’etre. The fact that it speaks to so many volunteers, time and again, seems to confirm the value we feel in participation.  

The homeless were just a minor part of the patient flow. Phoenix is also home to many refugees from other countries, seeking to make their way in a world of strange customs and a different language with confusing instructions. Families who were crowded into small apartments came for routine care, consumed by the never-ending search for jobs and income. While they were thankful to be here in America, they greatly missed their relatives and customs back home. The list of countries made me homesick for my own travels and allowed me to refresh both my medical Spanish and Swahili. There were many from Mexico, but also from El Salvador, Guatemala, Congo, Rwanda, and other countries from Central America and Africa. America is still the beacon to the world, for the “huddled masses yearning to be free.”

The lines for the free clinic also reaffirm in my mind the tremendous holes we have in our national health care system. So many have no access to care, and many just want to talk to someone who cares.  

One of my last patients was a young man, very nervous and needing privacy to share his story. He had been married for just a year and he confided that they had not yet consummated their marriage. He tried to pass this off as being OK, but seemed uncertain about his own sexuality and indeed whether he was normal or suffering from some unknown disease. As with many others I saw, he had a regular job but no insurance and no place or person to confide in about this most private of issues. I certainly didn’t solve all of his concerns, but sensed how grateful he was to be able to finally share this deeply held fear with someone, even a stranger.

The long drive back home to California with Judy gave me time to reflect on why we do these things, and if they have any lasting impact. There are still homeless in Phoenix searching for food and shelter, and those who are still looking for assimilation into this country’s bounties. Was a brief interlude from their struggles worth the time and expense invested? I know those who had a rotten tooth pulled or a hernia repaired will be forever thankful. But the brief supply of diabetes or hypertensive meds given out will soon be finished, and the worry and search for more will begin again.  

I can only hope and pray that we, as a nation, can do better balancing our great resources with those in need of basic health care.

Thank you, Lela, and your amazing colleagues, for the three days of giving renewed hope to thousands through brief interactions with their fellow travelers on this earth.

“Richard

 

 

 

Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health 

Vision 2020 – The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow

 

You are receiving this e-mail because you are a faculty member, employee, graduate, student, or friend of Loma Linda University Health and you have provided your e-mail address to us. To unsubscribe from future e-mails sent by the president, please click here to unsubscribe. Any correspondence sent to president@llu.edu will be read and processed by a member of the office of public affairs.

Office of the President, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350

Copyright © 2018 by Loma Linda University

llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 04 Jan 2018 11:24:01 -0800
4264:32907 <![CDATA[What Is The Matter? — A devotional]]> By Carl A. Ricketts Jr. My youngest child was running, playing and having a fun time at home. As she ran around a corner race car drivers wouldn’t even speed through, she fell down and hurt her foot, beginning to cry. Her cry and subsequent call for help let us know us that something was wrong. Not seeing what happened to her, and being unaware of what brought our daughter to tears, my wife and I rushed toward our daughter’s side to care for her, while asking the question … “What’s The Matter?”

What’s the matter?

It is the question we ask when we see a change in the countenance of our loved ones but do not know what has caused it.

What’s the matter?

It is the question we may even ask ourselves when tears fill the eyes of someone we know or love — someone visibly hurt, visibly shaken or even openly threatened.

What’s the matter?

It is a question born out of the concern for the witnessed distress in the lives of the people we care for, helping us to clarify the cause of the distress, formulating a compassionate response within a caregiver, prompting an investigation of a solution that might bring relief.

It is the question we ask when compassion moves from being a concept or theory and segues into a pragmatic expression.

What’s the matter?

Compassion is expressed in Saul’s inquiry found in 1 Samuel 11:5, “What is the matter with the people that they weep?” In other words, “What is the matter? What has caused them to cry?”

The messengers have just brought national news of distress that has caused the people to cry. After Saul’s inquiry, they inform him that the kingdom is under attack.

The kingdom is under attack, and Saul, the new king, doesn’t come to address the matter from a kingly throne. Instead, he comes to address the matter after coming in from the field behind the oxen.

Oh no! The kingdom is under attack … and the new king of the kingdom is coming into the situation room with mud on his sandals, smelling like animals and asking, “What is the matter?”

I can imagine at least one person thinking, “It would have been better if we had a seasoned king or at least someone who was familiar with dealing with matters such as these!” That one person may have even been … Saul!

There are times in our lives when we have to face matters that experience, knowledge and planning have not afforded us the opportunity to prepare for. There are moments in our lives when we are called to lead and when we are called to follow, though we may be inexperienced and novice to the matters presented in the situation room.

God desires to give us salvation, even when we face trials that we are unprepared for. That is why I love the next verse:

“Then the Spirit of God came upon Saul mightily …”

You don’t necessarily have to be seasoned to be able to recognize and alleviate matters of distress within the lives of the people around you; you just need the Spirit of God.

You don’t necessarily have to be the expert in handling the matters that bring pain, fear and despair; you just need the Spirit of God.

God will support you; He will back you up when He sees that you care about His people. He desires to deliver His people from distress and He desires to use you in the process, experienced or inexperienced.

So the next time you hear cries of distress and you begin to ask, “What’s the matter?” know the Spirit of God desires to strengthen you, His child, so that through you, His child, others can be comforted.

—Carl Ricketts Jr., MDiv, is director of Chaplain Services for Loma Linda University Medical Center.

 

]]>
Thu, 14 Dec 2017 11:45:48 -0800
4264:32909 <![CDATA[Santas care for Children's Hospital patients]]> By Briana Pastorino Gifts from Santa came in the form of compassionate care last week as Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital staff members dressed up in Santa suits while treating patients.

The first Santas Run the Hospital week took place Dec.  4 – 7 as doctors, nurses, and multiple staff donned red suits and white beards to bring patients some extra cheer while receiving treatment. 

Hospital mascot Luke the Lion also got involved and took some photos with participating staff in the lobby amidst the festive Gingerbread Village.

Coordinated by the LLU Children’s Hospital Foundation, roughly 120 suits were available to staff with a donation of $20, benefiting Grow Together, the employee giving campaign.

]]>
Thu, 14 Dec 2017 11:53:53 -0800
4264:32911 <![CDATA[Holiday office closures at Christmas and New Year's]]> By Heather Reifsnyder Many non-clinical offices and departments at Loma Linda University Health will observe four-day holiday weekends from Dec. 22–Dec. 25 and Dec. 29–Jan. 1. This revised schedule will allow employees in many administrative and support departments to enjoy extended holiday weekends with their families. 

Hospital clinical departments will retain their normal holiday schedules and staffing.
Outpatient clinics will close Dec. 25 and Jan. 1 only. 

The Payroll Department will not be able to process off-cycle checks on Dec. 15, 22, 25-26, 29 and Jan. 2-3. Regular paydays will remain the same. Call ext. 14004 or email payroll@llu.edu with any questions.

]]>
Thu, 14 Dec 2017 11:57:09 -0800
4264:32913 <![CDATA[Road improvements to University Avenue, Campus Street underway]]> By Heather Reifsnyder Crews from the city of Loma Linda are doing roadwork near campus to improve University Avenue (between Campus Street and Barton Road) and the stretch of Campus Street between University Avenue and Stewart Street.

Both will be repaved, and Campus Street, on its east side, will be widened. The project also includes relocating streetlights.

Work began Dec. 4 and is estimated to continue through Jan. 10, depending on weather.

Some lane detours will occur. City officials will attempt to notify the campus and neighborhood residents of unplanned impacts. Additionally, some of the work will take place at night to minimize inconvenience.

]]>
Thu, 14 Dec 2017 11:59:50 -0800
4264:32915 <![CDATA[Robert Handysides, DDS'93, appointed sixth LLU School of Dentistry dean]]> By Doug Hackleman Robert Handysides, DDS’93, associate dean for academic affairs since 2013, has been appointed dean of Loma Linda University School of Dentistry, effective Jan. 1, 2018.

Joseph Caruso, DDS’73, MS’75, who has served first as acting and then as interim dean since May 2017, will continue through the academic year his positions as associate dean for strategic initiatives and faculty practices and as program director for the Advanced Specialty Education Program in Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics.

In response to his selection, Handysides said, “I am deeply honored and humbled to learn that my colleagues and peers have chosen me to lead the School of Dentistry. Although the school has a proud tradition of excellence and is recognized as having one of the profession’s premier clinical programs, we have no interest in resting on our laurels. I look forward to collaborating with our school’s highly dedicated faculty, staff, alumni and students as we strive to improve on our laudable past.”

LLU Provost Ronald Carter, PhD, affirmed the appointment: “It has been my privilege to work closely with Dr. Handysides as the School of Dentistry’s associate dean for academic affairs. Rob demonstrates a delightful blend of attention to detail and process with a cheer and humor that lightens the load of serious decision-making. Dean Handysides has a vision for academic and professional excellence and the commitment to forge a faculty and administration equal to the challenges of 21st-century dental education.”

Shortly after graduation from LLU School of Dentistry in 1993, Handysides established and maintained for five years a solo practice in Kingston, Ontario, his Canadian home.

He returned to LLU School of Dentistry in 1999 and earned a certificate in endodontics that he completed in 2001 at the school’s Advanced Specialty Education Program in Endodontics.

Commencing immediately upon completion of his specialty program in 2001, Handysides served the Department of Endodontics in a variety of roles: course director, lecturer, clinical educator and researcher. In 2003, he became director of the LLU Faculty Endodontics Practice, a position he held in that busy dental practice until 2013. Due to accumulating teaching and administrative responsibilities, his involvement with patient care is somewhat reduced.

In 2007, Handysides was added to the LLU Faculty of Graduate Studies as associate professor, and in 2008 he was promoted to associate professor status with the Department of Endodontics. In November 2008, he was named a diplomate by the American Board of Endodontists. 

In 2009, when Leif Bakland, DDS’63, distinguished emeritus professor, retired, Handysides replaced his mentor and friend as chair of the Department of Endodontics. 

Appointed to the position of associate dean for academic affairs in 2013, Handysides for four years has helped to guide and direct the decision-making and implementation of both clinical training and curriculum design so essential to the maintenance, integrity and growth of the school.

Handysides has authored or coauthored several peer-reviewed articles and textbook chapters in endodontics and dental education. He has also presented numerous continuing education seminars both nationally and internationally, enjoying the various cultures and customs of the places he has visited. 

Handysides and his wife, Minnie, have three daughters: Nicole, Carina, and Alison.

]]>
Thu, 14 Dec 2017 12:02:26 -0800
4264:32836 <![CDATA[LLU Children's Hospital takes home top-quality award at Leapfrog banquet]]> The Leapfrog Group on Dec. 7 presented its Top Children’s Hospital 2017 award to Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital — the only children’s hospital in the western United States and one of only 10 in the country to take home this honor from Leapfrog, an independent hospital watchdog organization.

The Top Children’s Hospital honor comes just three years after Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital began operating under its own license.

View footage of the ceremony and words from executive leadership of Loma Linda University Health:

 

]]>
Fri, 08 Dec 2017 11:19:15 -0800
4264:32817 <![CDATA[Discover the power of gratitude during Wellness Live webinar]]> By Esmerelda Guerrero Studies show that feelings of gratitude contribute to overall health. Loma Linda University Health’s Living Whole Wellness Program is hosting a free livestreamed presentation on this topic Wednesday, Dec. 13, from 5:30–6 p.m. 

Interact live with featured speaker Dilys Brooks, MDiv, associate campus chaplain, about the power of gratitude. View at myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole/wellnesslive or on Facebook Live via the Loma Linda University Health page.

For more information, call 909-651-4007.

Viewers who missed last month’s live broadcast on diabetes and the holidays can view it on demand, along with numerous past presentations, in the Wellness Live archive. 

]]>
Thu, 07 Dec 2017 11:00:02 -0800
4264:32815 <![CDATA[Stand Still — a devotional]]> By Carla Gober-Park A devotional on 1 Samuel 12

If you had one last lecture to give, what would you say? What would be your last piece of advice?

Samuel begins his farewell in an odd way. He says he has been faithful to the people. He has never taken anything from them, unlike the king who will rule over them — taking their sons and daughters for service. But he, Samuel, has not done this and he wants to make sure they see it.

Why does Samuel begin his farewell this way — making sure they trust him? He needs their trust because of what he wants to say next: “The Lord is the one who appointed Moses and Aaron to bring the children of Israel out of Egypt. Now therefore stand still …”

Samuel is clear: If you trust me, listen to my story. It is a story about the Lord, so “Stand still.” Be respectful. Listen. Shhhh.

There it is. This is not a simple farewell. This is an old man who has served his people and his Lord faithfully. He knows his end is near and he is very concerned about their future. Very concerned. “Stand still so that I may plead (reason) with you before the Lord concerning all the saving deeds … which he performed for you and for your fathers.”

One can almost hear the crowd quiet down, like children after they’ve come to the front of the church for a children’s story. They situate themselves, arrange their clothes, giggle, but when the storyteller begins, they quiet.

Samuel recounts a story of ups and downs — of their unfaithfulness and the Lord’s faithfulness. While the Lord has called human leaders (Moses, Aaron, etc.) to guide, the Lord has been their ultimate Leader. This is a theocracy, not a kingdom. Samuel’s story ends with the story of their demands to have a king — not the Lord’s plan, but given to them because of their demands.

Samuel fears that, as they move forward to build a kingdom, they will forget their ultimate Leader. Then he stops where he began, “Now therefore stand still and see …” See what? What will they see in this harvest season at the end of June when it never rains and the sky is clear and cloudless?

Suddenly there is thunder and rain and the people are afraid. They were not meant to have a king other than the Lord Himself, and yet they demanded to have one. Is this thunder and rain the sign of the Lord’s anger? Will He destroy them because of it?

Only those truly afraid will understand the comfort of Samuel’s response: “The Lord will not cast away his people, for his great name’s sake, because it has pleased the Lord to make you a people for Himself.”

A people for Himself? The thunder and rain are not signs of His disfavor, but of His bond to them. What Samuel says is true and the heavens rumble because of it. It is the divine exclamation point to Samuel’s story. 

Do not forget the Lord, Samuel says.

Do not forget me, the heavens thunder.

“Fear the Lord, and serve him faithfully with all your heart; for consider what great things he has done for you,” Samuel’s farewell finishes. From beginning to end he cares about the people — the Lord’s people — and he hopes they will remember who their true Leader is — even when they have a king. 

Sometimes we are in a crowd of people looking for a leader. At other times, we are leaders, calling people back to the Lord. But today …

Stand still. Listen. Shhhh. Hear the thunder and rain.

Do not forget me, the heavens thunder. You are my people

—Carla Gober-Park, PhD, MS, MPH, RN, is assistant vice president for Spiritual Life and Mission at Loma Linda University Health, as well as director of the Center for Spiritual Life and Wholeness.

]]>
Thu, 07 Dec 2017 10:56:53 -0800
4264:32816 <![CDATA[Free cooking demo: plant-powered protein]]> By Esmerelda Guerrero A cooking demonstration for employees and students will showcase plant protein on Wednesday, Dec. 13, in the kitchen at Nichol Hall from 6–7:30 p.m.

The demo will be followed by a discussion of nutrient content and taste testing. Attendees will eat for free and leave with take-home recipes. 

Seating is limited for the complimentary event; reserve your seat by calling ext. 14007.

This event is part of a 2017 series of cancer-fighting foods demonstrations presented by Loma Linda University Cancer Center and the Living Whole Wellness Program.

]]>
Thu, 07 Dec 2017 10:58:40 -0800
4264:32818 <![CDATA[No Shave November comes to an end with over $12,000]]> By Briana Pastorino No Shave November came to an end with over $12,000 raised for cancer research at Loma Linda University Cancer Center.

Loma Linda University Health proudly partnered with the San Bernardino Police Department for the third year in a row for the awareness month, during which participating men and women skipped shaving in order to raise awareness about cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

A celebratory event was held at Loma Linda University Health – San Bernardino on Nov. 30.

See the full story, photos and a video at news.llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 07 Dec 2017 11:00:47 -0800
4264:32820 <![CDATA[Department of Family Medicine earns national recognition for patient-centered care]]> By Genesis Gonzalez The National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) announced that Loma Linda University Health, Family Medicine has received NCQA Patient-Centered Medical Home Recognition for using evidence-based, patient-centered processes that focus on highly coordinated care and long-term, participative relationships.

The department received Level 3 recognition, the highest-level recognition that an organization can achieve.

Read the full story at news.llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 07 Dec 2017 11:05:08 -0800
4264:32822 <![CDATA[Executives dedicate new memorial wall remembering Dec. 2, 2015]]> Dozens of Loma Linda University Health executives and leaders staff gathered on Friday, Dec. 1 on A-Level of the Medical Center around a new, permanent display in memory of the events that took place on Dec. 2, 2015. The group reflected on how the organization, community and law enforcement came together to support one another during a tragic time.

Chaplain Alfred Kambaki offered a prayer of blessing, and Richard H. Hart, MD, PhD, president of Loma Linda University Health, and Kerry Heinrich, JD, CEO of Loma Linda University Medical Center, offered a few words of remembrance and encouragement:

Richard Hart

“It’s so ironic that our country is now coming together over public shootings and the bonding that this represents. We are united because of a feeling of togetherness during tragedy.

“When we had our impact on December 2, we became a part of that. As you know the story, we have shared our sympathies and cards with other emergency departments in other parts of the country, and when our turn came, they came to us. Both with offers of help, orders of pizza, and all the other sort of things that people think about in times like this.

“Who knows where this will lead? That’s the part that causes pause. Where are we in this country, and how many more events will we go through?

“It seems as though we have a government that is stalemated on gun control, and stalemated on so many other issues, and yet this is what we are facing. 

“I think this is a special moment as we look at all the cards that have come, and the various things from individuals and other hospitals and companies across the country, and as we celebrate the fact that we are a community, there’s nothing that ties us together quite like tragedy in health care. We just ended no-shave month with our local law enforcement agencies, another system that can be bonded by events such as this.

“Thank you for being here and celebrating with us, just momentarily, what these things mean to us, and what this means to the other entities across this country that we partner with.”

Kerry Heinrich

“I remember standing in front of the Emergency Department and watching as our health care professionals came down the walkway to the emergency department from anesthesia, to the trauma surgeons, to nurses who were off duty who came together to answer the call and gave of themselves and their personal time.

“They came together not because they had to, or because they were on call, but because it was the right thing to do for our community.

“I will always remember watching these professionals, standing there, waiting for the next round of patients to come in. I was deeply, deeply moved by that day and by our people, and by the difference our people made that day.

“So today is a remembrance of the victims, those who lost their lives, and those who were injured; but it is also a wonderful reminder of what this institution does for its community, the phenomenal gifts of the people who work here who show selfless dedication to our mission.

“Thank you. It is an incredible honor to work with you, and with each person in this institution.”

 

]]>
Thu, 07 Dec 2017 11:10:43 -0800
4264:32824 <![CDATA[Cranes positioned; steel delivered; new hospital underway]]> By Larry Becker Loma Linda University Health’s effort to construct a new adult hospital and new Children’s Hospital tower has entered a new phase with the delivery of two massive construction cranes to the building site.

The cranes were delivered in late November, with 57 trucks needed for the taller north side crane, and 27 trucks to deliver the south side crane. On-site assembly took roughly a week. With the cranes’ arrival and placement, work on the new hospital site switches from excavation and seismic safety installation to the start of building the planned 16 story hospital.  

Learn more at news.llu.edu and in these videos: 

Time-lapse of crane installation and facts by-the-numbers: 

One of the first steel beams enters the construction pit Dec. 6:

]]>
Thu, 07 Dec 2017 11:27:01 -0800
4264:32826 <![CDATA[LLU Children's Hospital stands alone in western U.S. for top quality in 2017]]> By Briana Pastorino For the first time, Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital has been named a Top Children’s Hospital by The Leapfrog Group, a designation that highlights its nationally recognized achievements in patient safety and quality.

LLU Children’s Hospital is the only children’s hospital in the western United States to earn the coveted 2017 designation.

Announced Dec. 7, the Leapfrog Top Hospital award is widely acknowledged as one of the most competitive honors American hospitals can receive. 

Among the roughly 350 children’s hospitals in the country, Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital was one of only 10 hospitals to receive the Top Children’s distinction.

Scott Perryman, MBA, senior vice president/administrator of Children’s Hospital, attributes this recognition to the medical professionals who dedicate their lives every day to their patients.

“At Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital, our medical staff, nurses and other experts dedicate themselves to giving nothing but the best care for our mothers, babies and children, restoring them to health and happiness,” Perryman said.

Performance across many areas of hospital care is considered in establishing the qualifications for the award, including infection rates, maternity care and the hospital’s capacity to prevent medication errors. The rigorous standards are defined in each year’s Top Hospital Methodology.

Leah Binder, president and CEO of Leapfrog, congratulated LLU Children’s Hospital in a statement to all the top hospitals. 

“This demonstrates extraordinary dedication to patients and the local community,” Binder said. “The entire staff and Board deserve praise for putting quality first and achieving results.”

]]>
Thu, 07 Dec 2017 11:32:03 -0800
4264:32813 <![CDATA[Notes from the President — the Art of Receiving]]> By Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   December 2017
The art of receiving

“Richard

What a farmer in Croatia and a goat herder in Tanzania can teach us about gifts

Judy and I were walking home from campus one day to our little quadraplex on Court Street when Mrs. Alphie Hadley drove by in the other direction in a rear-engine

Chevrolet Corvair. This was 50 years ago and I was a first-year medical student. Mrs. Hadley, who was the wife of the associate dean of students, turned around and drove back alongside us, offering us a ride. We politely refused, since we were close to home and it was a nice day. But I have since regretted how we denied her the privilege of helping another. 

We often talk about the joy of giving, knowing the impact and benefit it gives to each of us.  What we talk less about is the art of receiving — and how to do it well. Some gifts have expectations in return, what the Chinese call “guanxi.” Others are given out of love or respect. Many cultures mandate that certain people receive gifts at special events, often due to a power differential. 

It has always seemed to me that the art of receiving takes some thought and talent to do well. And if giving provides special benefits, we can assist in that process by receiving well.

Gifts that are given with no expectation of a return seem the most precious to me. Offering a seat on a bus, or a better place in line, or assistance with a load, or your upgraded seat on an airplane, often brings the most joy to the giver. Refusing those offers may seem appropriate at the time, but denies the giver the satisfaction of being generous.

In 1972, Judy and I, with our oldest daughter Chandra, were on our way to work in Africa for the first time. On the way, we visited Dubrovnik, the picturesque Adriatic city in what was then Yugoslavia and is now Croatia. One day while driving, we spotted an elderly, weather-beaten lady raking hay. Thinking it would make a great picture, I stopped and stepped over the low fence while holding Chandra, who was 18 months old at the time. The farm lady put down her rake and started coming toward us, then suddenly stopped and went off in the other direction. I wasn’t sure if we had offended her or committed some cultural faux pas. She went across the field, bent over and picked up something, then started back toward us. We waited, not knowing what to expect. As she reached us, she held out her hand, holding a little turtle she remembered seeing earlier in the day. I will never forget those leathered hands and face, holding our little golden-haired daughter, as together they enjoyed the wonders of that turtle. A gift to a total stranger that she had the generosity to give and we had the wisdom to receive. We all left that chance meeting feeling special.

Several years later we were living in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, where I was based in the national Ministry of Health to develop a maternal and child health program for the country. We had a VW camper and were headed across the country to some important event I have long forgotten. I had the family with me on this trip, now with our middle daughter Briana. We ran out of daylight, making it unsafe to travel further, and had pulled off the road behind some acacia bushes to spend the night. About 5 a.m., just as it was starting to get light, I heard a gentle knock on the camper door. There was no evidence of civilization when we stopped the night before, so I was surprised that anyone was around. But the knock was persistent, so I rolled over in bed, reached out, and opened the sliding door. There stood a little, old goat herder in tattered clothes, with a smile on his face. He held out a battered tin cup full of warm goat’s milk. He was herding his flock in the area, had heard our baby cry in the night, and had gone out early to milk his goats and bring some for the baby. This was giving at its best — to total strangers he had never seen before and would soon be out of his life again. Yet the human spirit of giving prompted a generous act, and we were the recipients of a magical gift.  

At this time of year, between our two great holidays of thankfulness, join me in appreciating those who give and receive generously. May that be the spirit of Loma Linda University Health and of each one of us who claim its heritage.

Have a Merry Christmas,

“Richard

 

 

 

Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health 

Vision 2020 – The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow

 

]]>
Thu, 07 Dec 2017 10:47:32 -0800
4264:32725 <![CDATA[Caution: Opportunity to Listen Ahead]]> By Randy Roberts A devotional on 1 Samuel 10

Saul may never have been more fit to be king than when he hid among the supplies. He may never have been more fit to lead than when he thought he wasn’t. But I get ahead of myself.

The story of the Israelite people in that epoch of their history was characterized by wanting to be like the nations around them. What that meant in practical terms was that they wanted a king. Up to that moment in their history, God had been their King — their nation had functioned as a theocracy.

But now, things were different. Samuel the prophet spoke of this with these words: “This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says, ‘I brought Israel up out of Egypt, and I delivered you from the power of Egypt and all the kingdoms that oppressed you.’ But you have now rejected your God, who saves you out of all your disasters and calamities. And you have said, ‘No, appoint a king over us.’ So now present yourselves before the Lord by your tribes and clans’” (1 Samuel 10:17–29).

The people gathered together to seek the will of God in what they had demanded, and, as a result, chose Saul as king. (I think of an old saying … “When God is angry, he answers our prayers.”)

Despite the fact that he was just chosen king, Saul was nowhere to be found. Though all the people apparently attended this august occasion, they cannot find Saul. Here’s how scripture describes it:

“But when they looked for him, he was not to be found. So they inquired further of the Lord, ‘Has the man come here yet?’ And the Lord said, ‘Yes, he has hidden himself among the supplies’” (1 Samuel 17:21–22).

What the text does not say, and yet, what it implies, is that Saul was overtaken by a sense of unworthiness, a feeling of unfitness, an attack of humility, to such an extent that he felt unprepared for the task that faced him. And yet, here’s the irony: Saul may never have been more fit to be king than when he hid among the supplies.

Saul’s later story is one of pride and arrogance that led to a refusal to listen to God or the people God placed in his life. He began to believe his own press clippings. He reveled in the adulation given to him as king. He believed himself to be above others to the degree that he could use them to further his own aims and to preserve his own power. He became paranoid, believing David was out to get him.

But all that would come later. At this moment in time, he is hidden among the supplies — hidden from the grand task ahead, (likely) due to his fear, his feeling of inadequacy.

He would later come to believe that he was the most important person in the nation. When he believed that, he stopped listening — to God or to others. But when he had a healthy sense of his own weakness, he was open to listening to God, hearing others and walking in the ways of obedience.

John Ashcroft, one-time U.S. attorney general once said, “The most important thing my dad ever taught me is that there are more important things than me.” As long as Saul knew that, he succeeded. When he forgot that, he failed.

My question, then, is simple: Are we willing to listen to, and learn from, Saul’s story?

—Randy Roberts, DMin, is vice president for spiritual life and mission at Loma Linda University Health.

]]>
Thu, 30 Nov 2017 11:37:17 -0800
4264:32727 <![CDATA[Morning program for World AIDS Day tomorrow]]> By Heather Reifsnyder The Loma Linda University Departments of Preventive Medicine and Family Medicine, along with the Beyond AID Foundation, are offering a free medical education program on HIV/AIDS on Friday morning, Dec. 1, from 8 a.m.–noon in Centennial Complex room 3113. Health care providers, faculty and students are invited.

The program coincides with World AIDS Day and will provide an update on “HIV Screening and Treatment in Routine Clinical Care.” Introductory remarks will be made by Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health.

The keynote speakers are Ronald Hattis, MD, MPH, associate professor of preventive medicine and president of Beyond AIDS Foundation, and Prashanth Bhat, MBBS, MPH, assistant professor of family medicine, followed by a panel discussion with HIV and infectious disease specialists.

Four free-of-charge CME hours will be available for physicians and faculty.

Pre-registration is not necessary. To learn more, email psalcedo@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 30 Nov 2017 11:38:39 -0800
4264:32729 <![CDATA[Sunday tours of Embryology Museum now available]]> By Heather Reifsnyder Guided educational tour opportunities are being expanded at the Alfred Q. Shryock Museum of Embryology in LLU School of Medicine. Tours are now available by request on the first Sunday of each month from 2–4 p.m., in addition to weekday tours on Mondays and Wednesdays.

Anatomy specialist and volunteer docent Paul McMillan, PhD, leads the tours for visiting student groups from schools and colleges in Southern California and is adding the Sunday option to expand the opportunities for groups from churches, retirement communities and youth groups.

Each tour consists of a 20-minute PowerPoint presentation through which McMillan orients groups about the museum’s holdings, time to browse and ask questions, and, if desired, various videos are available for viewing on embryonic and fetal development. Some of these conclude with a live birth.

Groups of up to 40 people can be accommodated. To schedule an educational guided tour, call Marjorie McPherson in the Division of Anatomy office at 909-558-7602 at least one week in advance. 

]]>
Thu, 30 Nov 2017 11:39:53 -0800
4264:32731 <![CDATA[World Affairs Council event to examine U.S.–Turkey relations]]> By DonaJayne Potts Loma Linda University Health is co-sponsoring a Tuesday, Dec. 5 event of the World Affairs Council of Inland Southern California titled “U.S.–Turkey Relations: Can this Partnership in Crisis Be Rebuilt?” The event will be held in the Centennial Complex, room 3111, at 6 p.m.  

Sinan Ciddi, PhD, executive director of the Institute of Turkish Studies and visiting assistant professor at Georgetown University, will speak about contemporary Turkish-American domestic politics and foreign policy.

Admission is free for students and members of the World Affairs Council who preregister, and $15 for non-members with preregistration. The deadline to preregister is noon on Friday, Dec. 1.

Admission at the door will be $20.

To register, or for more information, visit wacinlandsocal.org or call 909-558-7446.

]]>
Thu, 30 Nov 2017 11:41:23 -0800
4264:32734 <![CDATA['Give to a Giver' with holiday care packages for missionaries ]]> By DonaJayne Potts The fifth annual “Give to a Giver” project is an opportunity for individuals, departments or groups to spread holiday cheer around the world to Loma Linda University Health overseas missionaries and their families by sponsoring Christmas care packages.

These missionaries are Loma Linda University alumni, Global Service Awardees, Deferred Mission Appointees or Adventist Health International long-term volunteers. They serve at Loma Linda University Health strategic partner sites as physicians, dentists, hospital administrators, nurses and public health educators.

Care packages are collected and shipped by Loma Linda University Health’s Global Health Institute in collaboration with Students for International Mission Service and the National Association of Seventh-day Adventist Dentists.

Here’s how the program works:

  1. Choose a missionary or missionary family by contacting the Global Health Institute.
  2. Pick up a shipping box from the institute’s office at 24888 Prospect Ave., starting Friday, Dec. 1.
  3. Fill it up — up to 20 pounds.
  4. Return it, unsealed, by Tuesday, Dec. 12.
  5. Feel warm fuzzies.

To learn more about this project and see a list of suggested gifts, please visit lluglobal.com/Christmas or contact Angeli Yutuc, program manager of international service, at 909-558-4876 or ayutuc@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 30 Nov 2017 11:43:16 -0800
4264:32736 <![CDATA[Webinar to spread message about San Manuel Gateway College]]> By Heather Reifsnyder Join the audience of nationwide viewers who will tune in for a free, live webinar about San Manuel Gateway College on Wednesday, Dec. 6, from 9–10 a.m. PST, hosted by Stakeholder Health.

The webinar will feature Arwyn Wild, MA, executive director of San Manuel Gateway College, and Neery Velazquez, an alumnus from the first graduating class.

Register for the webinar.

Stakeholder Health hosts periodic live webinars about enacting positive community change. The organization is a voluntary collaborative of faith-based health systems working to transform health through community partnership.

Loma Linda University Health is one of the group’s investing partners, along with Adventist Health System, Kettering Health Network, Adventist Health, and Adventist HealthCare.

The group’s Advisory Council is chaired by Gerald Winslow, PhD, director of the Center for Christian Bioethics and founding director of the Institute for Health Policy and Leadership at Loma Linda University Health.

Winslow will help moderate the webinar.

]]>
Thu, 30 Nov 2017 11:44:35 -0800
4264:32738 <![CDATA[Radiothon for pediatric cancer patients at Children's Hospital]]> Tune in Wednesday, Dec. 6, for the 16th annual Stater Bros. Charities K-Froggers for Kids Radiothon, which will raise funds to benefit pediatric cancer services at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital.

The radiothon will air from 6 a.m. – 7 p.m. on K-FROG 95.1 FM radio and online at www.kfrog.com. It will broadcast live from Bass Pro Shops at Victoria Gardens.

Hundreds of children battling cancer will come through the doors at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital during the month of December. 

You can help make a difference in their lives by donating now to the radiothon fund, or by calling 800-825-5437 beginning at 6 a.m. on Dec. 6.

]]>
Thu, 30 Nov 2017 11:46:12 -0800
4264:32740 <![CDATA[Thanks given during 50-year celebration of Loma Linda University Health's organ transplantation program]]> By Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Health celebrated its 50-year legacy of providing organ transplantation to inland Southern California, and beyond, during an anniversary luncheon Nov. 19 that highlighted the marvel of medical innovators and skilled surgeons as well as the generosity of donors and donor families.

“Loma Linda has been an important and critical part in this field for half a century,” said former acting U.S. surgeon general and organ donation ambassador, Rear Admiral Kenneth Moritsugu, MD, MPH, in his guest keynote address. 

But at the “heart of donation and transplantation,” he said, is the human element, a legacy made possible by everyday people. Organ donation, either by living donors or by deceased donors and their families, is the “greatest gift that one person can give another,” Moritsugu said.

“The ripples of donation and transplant cross the nation in this lifesaving quest,” he said.

Read the full story about the transplantation anniversary at news.llu.edu and hear about the past, present and future of transplantation at Loma Linda University Health in this video:

]]>
Thu, 30 Nov 2017 11:49:00 -0800
4264:32609 <![CDATA[Elite Stage 7 status earned for electronic medical record system; held by only 5 percent of hospitals]]> By Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Medical CenterChildren’s HospitalSurgical Hospital and East Campus have achieved Stage 7 of the inpatient Electronic Medical Record Adoption Model from Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) Analytics.

The awarding of this highest status — held by only 5.3 percent of U.S. hospitals — reflects Loma Linda University Health’s commitment to providing the best patient care through employing health information technology.

HIMSS Analytics gave the Stage 7 designation during a survey visit to Loma Linda on Nov. 7 by a three-person team led by Philip Bradley, North American regional director for the Healthcare Advisory Services Group at HIMSS Analytics.

This achievement speaks to the medical staff’s commitment to maximizing patient care, noted Mark Zirkelbach, MPA, chief information officer at LLU Medical Center.

"Observing our caregivers’ presentations to the survey team about how they have successfully leveraged technology on the units reinforced in my mind the blessing that administrators like myself experience in partnering with our staff,” he said.

Echoing this appreciation, Chief Medical Information Officer Francis Chan, MD, said, “I want to thank the medical staff, pharmacy and nursing leadership for their support as we prepared for this visit and demonstrated our utilization of Epic electronic records to improve the care of our patients. Loma Linda University Health can be proud of their efforts as we transform health care from paper records to a digital platform.”  

Chan continued, “We received much positive feedback on what we are doing well along with areas where we can improve. I look forward to working with the LLEAP team as we continue to make changes to better fulfill the mission of our institution.”

The survey team complimented Loma Linda University Health on specific accomplishments including robust use of data, a true partnership between operations and information technology, staff enthusiasm, effective case studies demonstrating the use of data analytics to drive positive change, and Transfer Center dashboards and management. 

 

]]>
Thu, 16 Nov 2017 11:42:08 -0800
4264:32600 <![CDATA[The Problem of Getting What We Want]]> By Kathy McMillan A mother carefully navigates the potluck line with her 4-year-old, two plates in hand. “I want some of that,” he announces, pointing at the salsa labeled “Spicy!!”

“No,” she explains, “That is very spicy and it will hurt your mouth.”

“I want it!”

Torn between protecting him and allowing him to make his own choices, the mother reluctantly helps him put salsa on his plate. He dips his hand in the salsa and happily puts his fingers in his mouth. Triumph turns to horror. The salsa barely touches his tongue before he does everything he can to get it out of his mouth.

How often does God allow us to experience something we want, all the while knowing that it is not His first choice for us? But He grants us the opportunity to make a choice and do it our way. 

When the prophet Samuel became old, the leaders of Israel came to him and asked for a king. God made it clear that it wasn’t His choice; He preferred the prophet model of leadership. A king would tax them, conscript their sons for military service and take the best of their servants, their crops and their animals. But the people continued to plead, “We are determined to have a king over us, so that we also may be like other nations …” (1 Samuel 8:19-20)

Finally, God relented and told Samuel, “Listen to their voice and set a king over them” (verse 22). God knew the story that would unfold and the incredible heartache that would result because of this decision, but He allowed it to happen anyway.

We often long for what is not in our best interest. Whether at work or in personal life, we become determined to have things our way. It’s a challenge to know where to focus our listening — to discern whether to trust our own desires or hear the counsel of those who may have different perspectives.

We are unable to see the broader picture. Perhaps God, in His wisdom, seeks to protect us from ourselves — from heading for a mouthful of spicy salsa! Perhaps there is a better choice than the one we are currently making.

—Kathy McMillan is director of Employee Spiritual Care at Loma Linda University Medical Center.

]]>
Thu, 16 Nov 2017 11:15:49 -0800
4264:32602 <![CDATA[Lopers' Holiday Classic 5K/half marathon — and Elves Trot — to hit the streets Dec. 10]]> By Esmerelda Valluru and Heather Reifsnyder The city of Loma Linda and the Lopers Club will host the 28th annual Holiday Classic 5K, half marathon and Elves Trot on Sunday, Dec. 10. Learn more about the event.

Many Lopers members — known locally for their Sunday morning walks and jogs in hot pink attire — are also employees and students of Loma Linda University Health, whose Living Whole Wellness Program sponsors the club. 

The first 250 employees and students of Loma Linda University Health who sign up for the Holiday Classic, or the Lopers’ training clinics, will receive a $20 discount on their fees. Act fast to secure your discount.

The following interview describes how being a Loper has helped one employee at Loma Linda University Health: Juan Carlos Belliard, PhD, MPH, assistant vice president for community partnerships and diversity.

Belliard will run the Holiday Classic along with his wife, Stacey; their daughter and his sister. “I get to run with three Belliard women at this Holiday Classic,” he said, “or at least start the race together … all three are faster than me.”

Why did you join the Lopers Club?

I had been trying to get to my optimal weight for a couple of years and had lost some by changing my eating habits and eating more plant-based. But I couldn’t shed those last 10 pounds. When my wife encouraged me to join the Lopers after our youngest left for college, I figured I might as well give it a try.

How do you describe your experience with the Lopers Club?

Very motivating. I joined a pace group that became my support group. Seeing people up and eager to run every Sunday morning was inspiring. … you are held accountable and encouraged by your group, and you go through the training together. The Lopers provide great speakers and advice before each run, water stations, snacks — it’s a great support system.

Has being a Loper helped your fitness goals?

It’s like my metabolism kicked back into gear. This is my college weight!

 What specific changes have you made that are working for you?

A great diet full of greens, beans and other non-processed foods. A regular exercise program — running and mountain biking with a game of soccer once a week. I also try not to eat after 6 p.m., or at least [have] just a fruit smoothie. I have also started fasting one day a week, and feel like that’s really been beneficial.

What motivates you to continue with this lifestyle?

I like how healthy feels. I’ve lost several friends and relatives to lifestyle diseases in the last year; it’s been a real wakeup call.

Have you been inspired to run or walk any races?

My wife and I completed the L.A. Marathon with the Lopers this year. It was a first for both of us, and just an amazing, empowering feeling. We’ve also done multiple half marathons. It’s kind of addicting!

What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about joining the Lopers Club?

Find what motivates you. If you are social, join with a friend or make friends within your running group. Start small; don’t think 26.2 miles. Begin with 1, then a 5K, etc. If you like to eat like I do, I can eat as much as I want now — I just need to make sure it’s healthy and that I continue to burn those calories. The Lopers are an amazing resource here at Loma Linda. We are lucky to have them.

 

]]>
Thu, 16 Nov 2017 11:17:29 -0800
4264:32604 <![CDATA[Children's Hospital staff encouraged to dress like Santa]]> By Briana Pastorino Things seem a little brighter when Santa is around — and that’s what the LLU Children’s Hospital Foundation and Grow Together Employee Giving Campaign are hoping for during Santas Run the Hospital. Children’s Hospital staff are encouraged to donate $20 and receive a Santa suit to wear during scheduled work hours Dec. 4–8. All employees except those in the OR and labor & delivery are eligible to participate.

Santa suits can be picked up Nov. 28–30 in the A-level entrance.

A group photo of Santa participants will also be taken in the Children’s Hospital lobby on Friday, Dec. 8, at 10 a.m.

For more information, contact Amiee Lay by email or phone, 909-558-5368.

]]>
Thu, 16 Nov 2017 11:19:37 -0800
4264:32605 <![CDATA[Dec. 2 event to explore experience of Hindu students, faculty]]> By Heather Reifsnyder “Hinduism at LLU” will take place Saturday, Dec. 2, from 3 to 5 p.m., featuring presentations and a panel comprising students and faculty of Loma Linda University Health. 

Also providing insight will be special guests Tahil Sharma, Germanacos Fellow with the Interfaith Youth Core and religious director at the University of Southern California, and Swasti Bhattacharyya, PhD, professor of religion and philosophy at Buena Vista University.

The program will explore the role and experience of Hindu students and faculty in the context of Loma Linda University Health’s mission and values. The event is the second program presented by the School of Religion’s new William Johnsson Center for Understanding World Religions.

The event will take place at the Damazo Amphitheater in Centennial Complex, 24760 Stewart St., Loma Linda, CA.

]]>
Thu, 16 Nov 2017 11:26:43 -0800
4264:32607 <![CDATA[Winning photographers announced for Prayer Notes]]> By Heather Reifsnyder The 2018 Prayer Notes will feature serene nature images from first-, second- and third-place winning photographers/employees Andrew Woodward, David Kwon and Umali Gaea, along with honorable mention photographs by Sonjib Bayen, Francis Chan, DJ Clemons, Adam Jackson, Linda McCann, Marilyn Sanders and Kathy Beck.

The winning shots were chosen out of 424 pictures by 61 photographers.

Similar to a postcard, the Prayer Notes are used for patient care and feature an image of nature on one side and a Bible verse on the other, along with the words “I prayed for you today and asked God to bless you.”

“This is one of my favorite projects every year because we have such a talented group of photographers who are passionate about promoting our mission and are willing to share their beautiful pictures with us,” said Kathy McMillan, MA, director of Employee Spiritual Care at Loma Linda University Medical Center.

See all the winning photos that will grace the 2018 set of Prayer Notes.

]]>
Thu, 16 Nov 2017 11:30:56 -0800
4264:32507 <![CDATA[Celebrating Our Veterans]]> ]]> Thu, 09 Nov 2017 11:52:43 -0800 4264:32502 <![CDATA[You're invited: Transplantation Institute to celebrate 50 years of saving patients]]> Heather Reifsnyder The Transplantation Institute at Loma Linda University Health will honor its 50 years of history during the “Give Life. Renew Life.” golden anniversary event Sunday, Nov. 19, at Centennial Complex, in two parts: a morning continuing education session for health professionals, followed by a celebration luncheon.

The luncheon, from noon to 2:30 p.m., will feature guest speaker Rear Admiral Kenneth Moritsugu, MD, MPH, acting U.S. surgeon general in 2002 and in 2006-2007.

Additional remarks, about the history of transplantation at Loma Linda University Health, the breakthrough story of Baby Fae, and the plans for transplantation in the future new hospital, will be given by LLU Medical Center CEO Kerry Heinrich, JD; Executive Vice President for Medical Affairs Roger Hadley, MD; and pioneering infant heart transplant surgeon Leonard Bailey, MD.

Two patient speakers, as well as videos sharing patient stories, will testify to the healing impact of the Transplantation Institute.

50 years of organ transplantation

The journey of organ transplantation at Loma Linda University Health began April 23, 1967, when California Highway Patrol officers rushed at top speeds to deliver a donated kidney to Loma Linda University Medical Center, where surgeon Louis Smith, MD, class of 1949, successfully transplanted the organ to save the life of an adult male patient who had been on dialysis for 100 days.

It was the first kidney transplant ever performed in inland Southern California.

The growth of the program to include multiple organ and tissue transplantation over the past half a century has continued to make the Transplantation Institute the area leader in comprehensive transplant care for children and adults. It routinely serves patients from as far away as Las Vegas.

As of Oct. 30, 2017, the Transplantation Institute has performed 2,962 kidney transplants, 808 heart transplants, 661 liver transplants and 227 pancreas transplants.

It is also expanding its services into new, underserved markets to provide patients care closer to home.

Morning continuing education offerings

Surgeons of the Transplantation Institute will share their expertise in a continuing education session that offers 2.5 CEU or CME hours for physicians, nurses and social workers. The program begins at 8:30 a.m.

RSVPs and registration

RSVP for the anniversary celebration luncheon by Friday, Nov. 17, to Karen Jackson at 909-558-3688.

Register for the continuing education morning session via the OWL or CE portals.

Both programs will take place in the Centennial Complex. 

]]>
Thu, 09 Nov 2017 11:28:15 -0800
4264:32504 <![CDATA[Closure of P2 employee parking for portions of weekend]]> The P2 employee parking structure on Campus Street will close for more than 24 hours this weekend to accommodate the “To Make Man Glow” 5K run/walk.

The closure will begin at 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 11, through 11 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 12. During that time, employees can park in the P1 structure (lot G), also on Campus Street.

]]>
Thu, 09 Nov 2017 11:36:30 -0800
4264:32500 <![CDATA[Give holiday food drive a strong finish]]> Heather Reifsnyder Time still remains to participate in Loma Linda University Health’s “Food for our Community” holiday drive, which will benefit clients of SAC Health System.

Non-perishable food items can be deposited in various collection bins around campus through Wednesday, Nov. 15. (See list of locations below.)

Desirable food items include pantry staples — such as flour, sugar, uncooked rice, dry legumes and canned goods (ramen noodles packs are also popular) — and holiday non-perishables like mashed-potato mix and canned yams.

For more information, contact Kathy McMillan at ext. 48406 or KMcMillan@llu.edu.

Donation drop-off locations

• LLU Medical Center main lobby
• East Campus Staff Lounge
• Behavioral Medicine Center administration suite
• Faculty Medical mail room
• Drayson Center lobby
• LLU Medical Center – Murrieta lobby
• Surgical Hospital employee entrance
• Mountain View Plaza, room 228 lobby (upstairs)
• LLUH 101 Building south employee entrance
• LLUH 125 Access Center lobby
• Outpatient Rehab Center breakroom
• Meridian Building PACE breakroom
• Nichol Hall rotunda
• School of Dentistry student lounge
• School of Medicine CP A1116
• School of Nursing lobby
•School of Pharmacy faculty/staff lounge 

 

 

]]>
Thu, 09 Nov 2017 11:26:32 -0800
4264:32498 <![CDATA['Nurse Leader' showcases Loma Linda banners sent to Orlando Health after nightclub shooting]]> Heather Reifsnyder When Loma Linda University Health recently sent densely signed banners to hospitals in Las Vegas who treated victims of the Oct. 1 mass shooting in that city, it was unfortunately not the first time a mass shooting prompted sending such messages of solidarity to medical centers treating gunshot victims.

Employees of Loma Linda University Health signed and sent similar banners after a nightclub mass shooting on June 12, 2016, in Orlando.  

A feature this month in the journal Nurse Leader included the above photo of personnel of Orlando Regional Medical Center viewing the banners sent by Loma Linda University Health. The image was included with a story titled “Orlando Health Nurse Leaders Reflect on the Pulse Tragedy.”  

Loma Linda University Health was on the receiving end of such kindnesses when the Medical Center treated victims of the Dec. 2, 2015, mass shooting in San Bernardino.

The outpouring included a banner from employees of Medical Center of Aurora (Colorado), who were in turn following a similar gesture — sent to them when they treated the 2012 movie theater shooting victims — by a Virginia hospital that had cared for victims from the mass shooting at Virginia Tech in 2007.   

]]>
Thu, 09 Nov 2017 11:24:09 -0800
4264:32496 <![CDATA[GIS Day Nov. 15 at Centennial Complex]]> The School of Public Health is hosting a GIS Day at Centennial Complex on Wednesday, Nov. 15, joining hundreds of organizations worldwide aiming to ignite the imagination of future geospatial innovators. The event, which will examine GIS (geographic information systems) as it relates to the health sector, will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Health Geoinformatics Laboratory in Centennial Complex.

Schedule:

  • 9–10 a.m: Open house
  • 10–11 a.m: Presentation – showcasing selected Loma Linda University Health GIS projects (e.g., Power Plant water utility model, Parking Finder app, global health facilities database, sea turtle tracking and protection app)
  • 11–12 p.m: Break for chapel
  • 12–1 p.m: Presentation – Introducing Loma Linda University Health geoinformatics resources (lunch provided)
  • 1–2 p.m: Hands-on GIS (opportunity to use ESRI’s GIS software)
  • 2–3 p.m: Presentation – Enhancing your research with spatial analytics
  • 3–4 p.m: Open house

Student projects will be showcased throughout the event.

For more information about GIS Day or to learn more about geographic information systems research at Loma Linda University, visit https://publichealth.llu.edu/academics/health-gis.

]]>
Thu, 09 Nov 2017 11:22:48 -0800
4264:32494 <![CDATA[Is evolutionary creation an oxymoron? — Panel to discuss]]> The School of Religion’s Humanities Program is sponsoring an event Saturday, Nov. 11, at 3 p.m. at Centennial Complex titled “Evolutionary Creation — An Oxymoron?”

Biology professor April Maskiewicz, PhD, of Point Loma Nazarene University will make the case for the compatibility of a high view of scripture and biological evolution.

A three-person panel will be respond: Kerby Oberg, MD, PhD, a Loma Linda University medical researcher; Ronny Nalín, PhD, a Geoscience Research Institute researcher; and Marlene Ferreras, MA, MS, a La Sierra University theologian. The panel will be moderated by Jim Walters, PhD, professor at LLU School of Religion and director of the Humanities Program.

Audience Q&A will follow the panel discussion.

The event takes place in Centennial Complex’s Damazo Amphitheater, 24760 Stewart St., Loma Linda. 

]]>
Thu, 09 Nov 2017 11:21:00 -0800
4264:32492 <![CDATA[Catch expert tips for staying healthy during the season of holiday feasts]]> Esmerelda Valluru Holiday parties and family gatherings can present a special challenge when it comes to eating healthy, especially for people who are trying to prevent or control diabetes. Loma Linda University Health’s Living Whole Wellness Program is hosting a free livestreamed presentation on this topic Wednesday, Nov. 15, from 5:30–6 p.m. 

Viewers will be able to ask questions and interact live with featured speaker Kevin Codorniz, MD, about how to stay healthy during the holiday season. The livestream will be available at myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole/wellnesslive.

For more information, call 909-651-4007.

Viewers who missed last month’s live broadcast on understanding breast cancer can view it on demand, along with numerous past presentations, in the Wellness Live On Demand archive.

]]>
Thu, 09 Nov 2017 11:19:17 -0800
4264:32491 <![CDATA[When God Speaks — a devotional]]> By Terry Swenson “But the Lord spoke with a mighty voice of thunder from heaven that day, and the Philistines were thrown into such confusion that the Israelites defeated them.” –1 Samuel 7:10

Have you ever encountered a friend or family member who was in a quandary and sought your help? Then, after listening intently, you discover that there really wasn’t a problem that anyone could fix? If you have, then I am going to wager that you tried to point out the reasonable explanation of his or her issue and proceeded to describe a way out of the dilemma. And what was his or her response? Instead of receiving profuse praises and thankfulness, you were confronted with consternation and anger!

Here’s what happened. You ran into the reality that a person’s feelings about something can sometimes seem like facts to them. This was the case for the people of Israel as recorded in 1 Samuel 7. They were sad and worried that for 20 years it appeared as if God had abandoned them. Not true! Reality was that they had turned from Him! It was as if they were trying to listen to Him with their fingers stuck in their ears. The prophet Samuel called them all together to turn things around and help them to, once again, listen and hear from God.

As a result, problems arose. Their archenemies the Philistines heard they were gathering and misinterpreted it to mean that Israel was gathering to attack them. So the Philistines marched to battle. The people of Israel were terrified! Samuel’s answer for them was, “Don’t stop pleading with the Lord!” (verse 8). Long story short, God listens and then God speaks.

“But the Lord spoke with a mighty voice of thunder from heaven that day, and the Philistines were thrown into such confusion that the Israelites defeated them” (verse 10). 

How does this story speak to you and me at Loma Linda University Health? Well, if we will sit still with it and listen, I believe God wants to speak to us.

First, we need to give the gift of ourselves and our time to others who are in need. We need to listen. We don’t necessarily have to fix or point out their problem as much as we need to be present in the moment, understand, and walk through their journey with them.

Second, we can help them understand where God is. He hasn’t abandoned us or turned a deaf ear toward us. He is with us and cares for us, even if our feelings, fears and perceptions obscure Him. Others can see and hear us, and we can help them to see Him through us. 

Third, this story in 1 Samuel reminds us that God still acts! And, more often than not, He acts on our behalf in ways that we never thought of or imagined.

“And there was peace … in those days” (verse 14).

Loma Linda University Health can be a place of peace. It can be a place of transformation. It can truly be a place that continues the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ when we are willing to give each other the precious gifts of our time, our presence, our care and our listening ears.

—Terry Swenson, DMin, is campus chaplain for Loma Linda University.

 

]]>
Thu, 09 Nov 2017 11:16:08 -0800
4264:32410 <![CDATA[Was this by chance? ]]> By Carla Gober-Park A devotional on 1 Samuel 6

We often wonder: Was this event, this meeting, this encounter ordained of God, or did it happen by chance? The Philistines had experienced seven months of being “terrorized,” afflicted by “tumors.” Their own gods had fallen face down, dismembered before the ark of the Lord.

Was this all by chance? The Philistines weren’t sure. Perhaps Dagon fell accidentally, breaking in the fall. Perhaps the tumors came from a natural source. And so they passed the ark from Ashdod to Gath and then to Ekron, watching curiously to see if tragedy followed. It did. And each time they wondered …

Was it all by chance? Or was there a God — a different God — behind it all …

“What shall we do with the ark of the Lord?” Their fears leap out of the text. This thing that they stole must go somewhere else — anywhere else. Keeping it is no longer an option. It must go back “to its place” and its place is not with them! This God belongs back with His people.

But even here they wonder … did it happen by chance — all the terror and tumors?

Surely there is no God bigger than theirs, no God who is this restless when He is separated from His people. And so they do what they can to prove that it is by chance. They place the ark on a cart and, instead of giving it a driver, they separate two milk cows from their calves and hook them to the front of the cart. Not only have the cows never pulled a cart, they have never been separated from their young. It should be impossible for these two cows to lead this cart anywhere other than back to their calves. After all, what animal leaves its young when there is no driver forcing it to do so?

Here the gauntlet is thrown. In 1 Samuel 6:8-9 the Philistines declare, “Then send it off, and let it go its way. And watch; if it goes up on the way to its own land, to Beth-she′mesh, then it is he who has done us this great harm; but if not, then we shall know that it is not his hand that struck us, it happened to us by chance.”

Five Philistine lords watched as “the cows went straight in the direction of Beth-she′mesh … lowing as they went; they turned neither to the right nor to the left, and the lords of the Philistines went after them as far as the border of Beth-she′mesh” (verse 12).

These lords can’t believe what they see, so they follow the cows and the cart all the way to its destination. They hear the cows “lowing” — longing for their young even as they go “straight” to their destination, moving to a divine impulse. The Philistine lords are astonished. It seems this God will bring the symbol of Himself back to His people and He will use these animals to do it. Only after they watch the reunion of this God with His people do the Philistine lords return to Ekron.

Did this happen by chance? Not this.

Sometimes we wonder where God is and if what we see is mere chance. But this text is different. This text moves with clarity and forcefulness in one direction. Chance? No way. In this situation, the Philistines themselves made it clear — through the “impossible” task they gave to two milk cows that would never leave their young. Except they did.

This text says more than “God is in control.” This text says something about where God wants to be and how determined He is to be there. Chance? Not when it comes to being with His people.

Not chance at all.

—Carla Gober-Park, PhD, MS, MPH, RN, is assistant vice president for Spiritual Life and Mission at Loma Linda University Health, as well as director of the Center for Spiritual Life and Wholeness.

]]>
Thu, 02 Nov 2017 11:06:29 -0700
4264:32412 <![CDATA[Additional Social Security workshop scheduled ]]> By Heather Reifsnyder Employees have an extra chance to attend “Social Security 101: everything you wanted to know,” a free workshop for Loma Linda University Health faculty and staff presented by the Social Security Administration. This follows two successful workshops already presented Oct. 24 and 26.

The new workshop will take place from 1–2 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 8, at LLU Medical Center East Campus in the Meridian Room. All employees from across Loma Linda University Health are welcome.

Also still to come is the workshop at LLU Medical Center – Murrieta at 8 a.m. on Nov. 16.

Learn more about the Social Security workshops in our previous News of the Week story

]]>
Thu, 02 Nov 2017 11:07:46 -0700
4264:32414 <![CDATA[Learn about the faith of Loma Linda University Health]]> By Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Health is offering two informational meal sessions — titled “Who are Seventh-day Adventists?” — to give interested employees an overview of Adventist beliefs.

Questions will be welcomed and encouraged.  

There are two dates to choose from:  

• Tuesday, Nov. 7, from 5:30–7 p.m., or
• Thursday, Nov. 9, from noon–1:30 p.m. 

Lunch or dinner will be served at the free events, which will take place at Wong Kerlee International Conference Center’s Rock Room.

To sign up or for more information, please call Employee Spiritual Care at ext. 87261.

]]>
Thu, 02 Nov 2017 11:09:03 -0700
4264:32416 <![CDATA['Our Own at Risk' — hear the journeys of Inland Empire DACA students]]> Next week’s “Faces of DACA” event at Loma Linda University Health will step away from politics and policy to share the stories of Inland Empire Dreamers. It is co-sponsored by University of California Riverside and California State University San Bernardino.

Tickets are free to the event — to be held Thursday, Nov. 9, from 6–8 p.m. — but space is limited and pre-registration is required.

Meet the faces of DACA and join us for a panel discussion with:

  • Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president, Loma Linda University Health
  • Tomás Morales, PhD, president, California State University San Bernardino
  • James Sandoval, PhD, vice chancellor, University of California Riverside.

To learn more, read the previous News of the Week story about Faces of DACA.

]]>
Thu, 02 Nov 2017 11:10:38 -0700
4264:32417 <![CDATA[2nd annual glow-in-the-dark 5K ]]> By Heather Reifsnyder The second annual “To Make Man Glow” 5K run/walk event will begin on the rooftop of Parking Structure 2 on Campus Street on Sunday, Nov. 12, with festivities starting at 5 p.m. 

In addition to the race, the evening will include live music and a photo booth, as well as a costume contest, prizes and giveaways. The first 500 participants to sign up will get a t-shirt, a finisher medal and a goodie bag.

Black lights and glow-in-the-dark props along parts of the course and in the photo booth will light up the night. Participants are also welcome to wear or carry their own gear that glows.

A play on the words of Loma Linda University Health’s motto “To Make Man Whole,” the 5K will benefit the American Heart Association and Loma Linda University student activities.

For more information, call 615-218-4479.

 

]]>
Thu, 02 Nov 2017 11:11:59 -0700
4264:32419 <![CDATA[School of Public Health to host symposium on lifestyle medicine]]> By James Ponder The Loma Linda University School of Public Health invites interested parties to attend a free symposium on lifestyle medicine, which will be held Friday, Nov. 3, from 12 noon to 1 p.m. in Cutler Auditorium.

Titled “Symposium on lifestyle medicine: the time is now,” the event will feature Wayne Dysinger, MD, MPH, CEO of Lifestyle Medicine Solutions, a Riverside, California, health center that specializes in chronic disease reversal and preventive medicine. Dysinger, who previously chaired the department of preventive medicine at Loma Linda University School of Medicine, currently chairs the American Board of Lifestyle Medicine, and serves as medical director for the Complete Health Improvement Program.  

The School of Public Health is proud to sponsor the symposium as part of its 50th anniversary of accredited public health education in the Inland Empire. The school first became accredited in 1967. The event is free to the public. 

 

]]>
Thu, 02 Nov 2017 11:13:23 -0700
4264:32421 <![CDATA[Indeed.com names Loma Linda University Health a Top 25 Hospital for employees]]> Loma Linda University Health ranked 15th on Indeed.com’s top 25 Best Hospitals to Work For. It is one of five California-based organizations appearing on the list.

Loma Linda University Health’s 2017 ranking is based on more than 500 employee reviews in Indeed.com’s database. Hospitals with at least 50 reviews were eligible for inclusion in the rankings.

Recognized as the largest online job posting website worldwide, with more than 200 million unique visitors monthly, Indeed.com based its overall rankings on data from 15 million employee reviews. The rankings also account for the number of reviews a company has received, average rating, company size, number of job openings and economic influence on a national level.  

Employees ranked Loma Linda University Health high in:

• Work/life balance
• Culture
• Compensation/benefits.

Kerry Heinrich, JD, CEO of Loma Linda University Medical Center, said he believes the employees who completed Indeed.com’s questionnaire reflect the sense of purpose Loma Linda University Health employees demonstrate at work daily.

“Our employees support our patients with dedication and compassion,” Heinrich said. “Every day, patients come to us facing critical moments in their lives. Every one of our patients experiences team-focused, exceptional care, sustained by the commitment and talent exhibited by every member of the Loma Linda University Health team. We are so incredibly grateful for this honor.”

]]>
Thu, 02 Nov 2017 11:16:03 -0700
4264:32401 <![CDATA[Notes from the President — Pleasure, Purpose and Pride]]> By Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   November 2017
Pleasure, Purpose and Pride

“Richard

There is so much to be thankful for. This time of year brings students back to once again fill our sidewalks and classrooms. Enrollment has stabilized after several years of slight decline, reflecting the demographic bubble hitting college campuses across the nation. Our second cohort of students at the San Manuel Gateway College in San Bernardino are also well underway. Many of our LLU students — over 600 of them — have returned from various mission trips this summer, telling their usual stories of wonder and passion for the world’s needs. And our goal of doubling the global involvement of our students is nearly accomplished. This continues to be reported as one of the most significant life-changing experiences for each of them.

At our first Homecoming Weekend, held in March, I had a chance to talk with author Dan Buettner, who was on campus as part of the Healthy People lectures organized by the School of Public Health. Buettner is well known on our campus as the author who identified and reported on the Blue Zones®, the five healthiest places on the planet. We have been proud that Loma Linda was included, though it was actually Seventh-day Adventists living across California who were part of the Adventist Health Study–1 cohort on which he reported, not just our own community. Despite that detail, we accepted the adulation that made us all stand a bit taller.

Buettner’s latest project he shared with me was his new research identifying the “Happiest Places” on the planet. He wouldn’t indicate where these were at the time, so I have been waiting for the National Geographic to come out to spill the beans. This month’s issue does just that.

We didn’t make the list! Can you believe it?  

Using data from the Gallup World Poll on 140 countries, Buettner identified Denmark, Singapore and Costa Rica as the happiest countries. Boulder, Colorado, was a runner-up American city.

Happiness, of course, is a tough variable to measure. Our graduates have been documented to have the most “meaning” in their lives as measured by whether their jobs make the world a better place. Buettner categorizes three broad areas as contributing to happiness — Pleasure, Purpose and Pride. For Danes, happiness comes from “doing what was worth doing,” as documented by the question of whether they “learned or did something interesting yesterday.” Singaporeans scored in the “life satisfaction” strand of happiness, called evaluative happiness. And the Costa Ricans experience pleasure through “experienced happiness,” or positive affect, despite having a lower economy.

When I was teaching regularly, I often asked my students to pretend we had a “happiness meter” that could measure such feelings. If we turned on the meter and pulled up one evening outside a nice home in south Loma Linda, or outside a rundown apartment complex in east San Bernardino, or alongside one of our residence halls, who would win for being the happiest?

Even deeper, are there certain life characteristics that give Pleasure, Purpose and Pride? Certainly doing something meaningful or worthwhile is significant, right? How about winning something, financial security, demonstrating compassion, or sacrifice for a worthy cause? Is happiness an accidental event, like winning the lottery, or something one can plan on, seek out, and accomplish? If we accept happiness as an appropriate ideal in life, it seems we should think about how to get it, or get there, or at least set some goals. 

We talk about such things here at Loma Linda University Health as we seek to develop wisdom, not just knowledge, and true professionals, not just good technicians. We certainly seek to imbue Purpose in our students’ lives. And while Humility is one of our core values, the kind of Pride that comes from accomplishing a task or dream seems OK. But I think these need to be scored alongside personal values, which are the things you look back on at the end of life and feel good about — a life well lived and a race well run.

It seems to me that the concept of service to others is at the foundation of all this, a biblical principle that has stood the test of time and cultures. In an increasingly polarized country and world, this may be the best example we can provide — calling ourselves and others to be more concerned about each other. 

Ultimately, it is our spiritual values that truly bring a sense of completeness, a feeling of satisfaction to life, and a sense that we have value to ourselves and to our God. That spiritual connectivity can override many other threats to happiness, whether financial, health or relationships. 

With that goal in mind, I wish your own cup may be full of happiness as we approach our Thanksgiving season! 

“Richard

 

 

 

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health 

Vision 2020 – The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow

 

]]>
Wed, 01 Nov 2017 13:33:57 -0700
4264:32342 <![CDATA[Faces of D.A.C.A.]]> Current political debate in this country tends to polarize issues more than explain them. DACA has certainly been one of those over the past few months. Our local universities — Loma Linda University, California State University San Bernardino, and University of California Riverside, would like to step away from these politics and share the journeys of our own DACA students. Come meet our young people and hear their stories of challenges and success as they find their way in our communities.

Thursday, November 9, 2017, 6-8pm

Free tickets. Pre-registration is required. Space is limited.

http://lluhghi.eventbrite.com

For additional information please call 909-558-4420 Ext. x44420 or email kyutuc@llu.edu.

Meet the faces of DACA and join us for a panel discussion with:

  • Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president, Loma Linda University Health
  • Tomás Morales, PhD, president, California State University San Bernardino
  • James Sandoval, PhD, vice chancellor, University of California Riverside

What is D.A.C.A.?

The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) was an American immigration policy that allowed some individuals who entered the country as minors, and had either entered or remained in the country illegally, to receive a renewable two-year period of deferred action from deportation and to be eligible for a work permit. As of 2017, approximately 800,000 individuals — referred to as Dreamers after the Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors Act (DREAM Act) bill — were enrolled in the program created by DACA. The policy was established by the Obama administration in June 2012 and rescinded by the Trump administration in September 2017.

What is the DREAM Act?

Development, Relief, and Education for Alien Minors Act (DREAM Act) is an American legislative proposal for a multi-phase process for qualifying alien minors in the United States that would first grant conditional residency and upon meeting further qualifications, permanent residency.

 

 

 

]]>
Thu, 26 Oct 2017 10:32:55 -0700
4264:32344 <![CDATA[No Shave November kicks off Nov. 1]]> Briana Pastorino Put away your razors, No Shave November kicks off Wednesday, Nov. 1.

Loma Linda University Health is proud to partner with San Bernardino Police Department for the third year in a row for No Shave November — a month-long initiative where participants forgo shaving in order to raise awareness about cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

Loma Linda University Health employees and students are encouraged to participate in a variety of ways

  • Donate $40 to enter No Shave November and allow your hair to grow wild and free
  • Make a donation to Loma Linda University Health and help fight cancer in the community
  • Donate $10 for a Commemorative Coin

All proceeds benefit cancer care at Loma Linda University Health. All gifts are tax-deductible. 

A celebratory event at the conclusion of No Shave November will be held on November 30 at Loma Linda University Health – San Bernardino Campus, where prizes will be given in a variety of categories. For more information on the event please call 1-877-LLUMC-4U or visit the event website.

]]>
Thu, 26 Oct 2017 10:35:13 -0700
4264:32346 <![CDATA[Hospital leadership join forces to pull 116,000-pound plane at San Bernardino Airfest]]> Briana Pastorino Two 116,000-pound airplanes were pulled across the tarmac at San Bernardino International Airport during the 3rd annual SBD Fest, Sunday. Oct. 22, raising over $2,000 for Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital (LLUCH).

After a minute-and-a-half of pulling, the red team, comprised of San Bernardino County and Loma Linda Fire Departments, and representatives from LLUCH, took home bragging rights of pulling their plane the farthest.

The SB Strong Plane Pull welcomed two teams — the aforementioned red team, and the green team, made up of members of the San Bernardino County Sheriff Department. Each team lined up on 100-foot ropes attached to a 116,000 pound, 757 aircraft to compete to see who could pull the plane the farthest in 90 seconds.

Joining the SBFD and LLFD were four representatives from Loma Linda University Health: Rachelle Bussell, senior VP of advancement; Lyndon Edwards, senior VP/administrator of Loma Linda University Medical Center adult services; Joe Perry, assistant VP of finance at LLUCH; and Jillian Payne, assistant VP of philanthropy.

San Bernardino County Fire Captain Mike McClintock told the San Bernardino Sun that LLUCH was a cause worth pulling for.

“There’s always a friendly rivalry between police and fire, but we’re partners in public safety and here to help each other out no matter what,” McClintock said.

 

]]>
Thu, 26 Oct 2017 10:40:55 -0700
4264:32353 <![CDATA[Open enrollment begins Nov. 1]]> Benefits season is upon us. Loma Linda University Health employees can make changes to their benefits for the 2018 plan year by going on PeoplePortal starting Nov. 1.

One new and important change for 2018 is that health plan re-enrollment is required for all covered employees.  Coverage will terminate Dec. 31, 2017 if re-enrollment is not completed during the open enrollment period.

During open enrollment, annual enrollment us required for Flexible Spending accounts and changes can be made to life insurance.

Employees of BMC, CH, LLU, MC, UHC and USS will have until November 19to submit their elections online. Employees of LLUMC-Murrieta will have until November 15 to submit their elections online. Elections made during open enrollment will take effect January 1, 2018.

LLU employees will have the opportunity to make changes to their health plan during the spring open enrollment period. However, during the November open enrollment period, LLU employees can enroll or re-enroll into the flexible spending accounts.

In addition, LLU employees who are currently enrolled in the Base Plan are eligible to add dependents during this open enrollment period. However, employees enrolled in the Wholeness Plan cannot add dependents until the spring open enrollment period.

Employees can learn more about open enrollment at the upcoming Benefits Fairs Oct. 31 through Nov. 2. Please see the attached flyer form more info.

To review your current (2017) benefit selections, visit the benefits section of PeoplePortal and select “Benefits Summary.”

To make elections for 2018, follow these steps: 

  1. Log on to PeoplePortal (https://peopleportal.llu.edu)
  2. Find the Employee Self Service section.
  3. Select Benefits.
  4. Select Benefits Enrollment.
  5. Click Select. (If multiple events are open, please complete each event in date order.)
  6. Review your election choices: Health, Life Insurance, FSA, etc.
  7. Click Edit to make changes to your benefits. Please remember to waive the benefits you do not want, and ensure that you have named at least one beneficiary for your employee life insurance.
  8. Click Submit to proceed to the Authorization Notice.
  1. Read the Authorization Notice and click Authorize to send your final choices to Human Resource Management- Benefits for review.
  2. Click OK when you receive confirmation on your screen.
  3. Print the confirmation page for your records.
  4. Provide all required documents mentioned on PeoplePortal or as prompted by Human Resource Management- Benefits and/or Risk Management.

Note: If your status does not indicate submitted, then you have not successfully completed the submission process.

Questions?

If you have questions, please e-mail HumanResources@llu.edu  

For questions about the medical/dental plans, contact Risk Management at 909-651-4010 or x14010

CLick the attachment for information on the upcoming Benefits Fairs.

]]>
Thu, 26 Oct 2017 11:27:38 -0700
4264:32335 <![CDATA[God is Glorious — a devotional]]> By Carl Ricketts Jr. Never confuse the presence of a thing with the possession of a thing. 

Today you may have the presence of power in your dwelling place, but should you forget to pay the monthly expense to the proper authority, you will soon find out who truly has possession of the power.

In the book of 1 Samuel, chapter four, the leaders and elders of Israel have become so comfortable with the presence of God that they have progressively shifted into a possessive ownership of His presence. Somehow, the people of Israel’s distorted view of their relationship with God has caused them to bring the Ark of the Covenant (the symbol of God’s very presence) into a battle with the Philistines that their spiritual lives were not prepared to fight.

What happens next? God does not respond as they think He should, Israel loses the battle, 30,000 more soldiers perish, and Israel loses the symbol of God’s very presence.

The Israelites confused the presence of God with their possession of God.

Is there a witness who can say, “I’ve done that before!”?

Sometimes we devalue the experienced presence of God to the point where He is no longer on our top 10 list. And now, after years of a crotchety relationship with Him, living our own way, consistently neglecting His presence, we find ourselves in tight spots and difficult situations saying, “I’ll just call on Him.”

I’ll call on Him, not because I know Him intimately; I’ll call on Him, not because I trust Him abundantly; but I’ll call Him because of what He has meant in the past.

There is a danger in only relating to God based on what He has done in the past. There is no current passion, current zeal, current respect or current awe for being in the presence of God.

The people of Israel was afforded a grace, a protection, a blessing with the presence of God. It should have been their daily goal to deepen their relationship with God. To dwell, learn and grow in the presence of God. Instead, in their minds, they constricted God into the boundary of a symbolic box, now believing they could manipulate this for their well-being. Instead of being moved by His presence, they felt that they could move God for whatever they needed.

The creation tried to manipulate the Creator, and the glorious presence of God that was once customary is now exiled.

Yet and still, God is glorious!

He now appears in the house of the Philistine god Dagon, in the city of Ashdod, one of the five major cities of the Philistines. The Philistines knew of the power of God, and in their theology, they viewed Israel’s God as one of many gods — but a god to be reckoned with. The Philistines believed that now that they had possession of the presence of God — the Ark of the Covenant — that they had done what no other nation could do: defeat and control the God of Israel.

The Philistines confused the presence of God with their possession of God.

Their goal was to use God for their own nationalistic purposes. So, while the presence of God was in the alleged possession of the Philistines (just like Dagon, they thought), the true God decided to reveal the heaviness of His glory (1 Samuel 5:3-4).

After the first night … Dagon had fallen on his face to the ground before the Ark of the Lord

After the second night … Dagon had fallen on his face to the ground before the Ark of the Lord, and the head of Dagon and the palms of his hands were cut off on the threshold. 

God threw His weight around in the house of Dagon. 1 Samuel 5:6-7 says, “Now the hand of the Lord was heavy on the Ashdodites … When the men of Ashdod saw that it was so, they said, ‘The ark of the God of Israel must not remain with us, for His hand is severe on us and on Dagon our god.’”

God leaves no doubt that He is the undisputed and immanent God. He is God over all.

The lesson to be learned, whether you are intimate with God or not, is that God cannot be boxed in, confined or contained by your worldview, your customs or traditions. If you grew up knowing God, it doesn’t mean that you get to use God however you want. And if you grew up not knowing God and He reveals Himself to you, you don’t get the right to use Him for your purposes. God is Lord over all His creation.

The question is, “Is He the God whose presence wows you, or is He the God you try to control as a tool in your possession?

—Carl Ricketts Jr., MDiv, is director of Chaplain Services for Loma Linda University Medical Center.

 

]]>
Thu, 26 Oct 2017 09:48:03 -0700
4264:32278 <![CDATA[Geoscience Research Institute to host open house for Creation Sabbath]]> The Geoscience Research Institute will showcase new fossil displays and short films during an open house to mark Creation Sabbath 2017, an initiative of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. The open house will take place from 3–5 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 28.                  

In addition to guided tours by staff scientists, films will be shown that explore topics such as our understanding of the European Alps, how fossil whales are studied and an illustration of the Gospel using a marvel from nature. Additionally, see the world premiere of a new film about X-ray crystallographer Isabel de Moraes and her work at the Diamond Light Source near Oxford, England.

3:05 p.m. — The Hole (5 min)

The Hole illustrates the Gospel using the lens of creation to understand what it means to be born again.

3:30 p.m. — Seeking Understanding: Isabel de Moraes (24 min)
This documentary, produced by the Geoscience Research Institute, is being released specially for Creation Sabbath.

4 p.m. — Orígenes (en Español) (28 min)
Orígenes es una serie documental exclusiva de TV Nuevo Tiempo, que busca develar el misterio del origen de la especie humana y de nuestro mundo.

4:30 p.m. — Clash of Ideas (7 min)
Is it true that worldview influences the way people interpret data from the natural world? Is it also possible that observations from the natural world trigger revolutions in thinking?

For more information, call 909-558-4548. The Geoscience Research Institute is located at 11060 Campus St. in Loma Linda.

]]>
Tue, 24 Oct 2017 10:02:35 -0700
4264:32291 <![CDATA[Time extended for employees to assess work environment]]> The 2017 annual Employee Engagement Survey at Loma Linda University Health is now extended through Tuesday, Oct. 31, at 11:59 p.m. Employees are invited to share their opinions about various aspects of their working environment via an improved survey format.

The survey currently applies to employees of LLU Health Care, Medical Center, East Campus, Surgical Hospital, Children’s Hospital, Behavioral Medicine Center, Murrieta campus and Shared Services. (Loma Linda University employees will take the survey in spring 2018.)

Employees eligible to take the survey received an email invitation from Advisory Board Survey Solutions (surveys@advisory.com) in September.

Learn more in our previous story about the survey in News of the Week.

]]>
Tue, 24 Oct 2017 15:56:23 -0700
4264:32252 <![CDATA[Family Health Fair and 5K coming soon]]> By Heather Reifsnyder The Oct. 29 Family Health Fair and 5K will feature attractions for adults and children alike. Employees, students and community members are invited. The event will be held at Loma Linda University Drayson Center

Registration for the 5K walk/run begins at 7 a.m., followed by the race at 8 a.m. The fair will take place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., featuring health screenings and flu shots along with attractions including a bounce house, face painting, food truck and more.

Volunteers are being recruited to assist with the event. Learn more or sign up to volunteer.

For additional information, call 877-LLUMC-4U

]]>
Thu, 19 Oct 2017 10:10:32 -0700
4264:32240 <![CDATA[Wellness Live webinar to educate about breast cancer prevention and detection]]> By Esmerelda Valluru Making sense of the ever-changing world of breast cancer can be quite overwhelming. 

Loma Linda University Health’s Living Whole Wellness Program is hosting a free livestreamed presentation on breast cancer Wednesday, Oct. 25, from 5:30–6 p.m. 

Viewers will be able to ask questions and interact live with featured speaker Sharon Lum, MD, about breast cancer prevention and early detection. The webinar will be available at myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole/wellnesslive.

For more information, call 909-651-4007.

Viewers who missed last month’s live broadcast on beating burnout can view it on demand, along with nearly 30 past presentations, in the Wellness Live archive. 

]]>
Thu, 19 Oct 2017 09:10:30 -0700
4264:32237 <![CDATA[Social Security 101: maximize your benefits]]> Employees can learn about Social Security benefits during “Social Security 101: everything you wanted to know,” a free workshop for Loma Linda University Health faculty and staff presented by the Social Security Administration.

The following sessions will take place for employees of any entity to choose from:

• Oct. 24 at LLU Children’s Hospital room 1832, 9:30 a.m.

• Oct. 26 at Coleman Pavilion room 11121, 8:30 a.m., 10 a.m. or 11:30 a.m.

• Nov. 16 at LLU Medical Center – Murrieta’s Temecula room, 8 a.m.

The workshops will be led by Teresa Campbell, California inland area public affairs specialist for the Social Security Administration. She has worked with the agency for more than 25 years in both technical and supervisory roles.

During the workshops, which are offered to Loma Linda University Health employees at no charge, participants will learn:

  • When they will be eligible to receive retirement benefits
  • How early retirement will affect their benefits
  • Whether they qualify for disability, survivors or spouse benefits
  • How to maximize their benefits
  • When to file for Medicare
  • The future of Social Security

Prior to attending the workshop, employees should create a My Social Security account and print out their Social Security Statement. 

No reservations are required for the workshops, but space is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

To learn more, email Laura Reddix in Human Resource Management at LReddix@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 19 Oct 2017 09:08:11 -0700
4264:32238 <![CDATA[Seeds of Hope focuses on erasing stigma of mental illness]]> By Larry Becker Michelle Williams, former member of Destiny’s Child and a Grammy award-winning singer and songwriter, believes her faith in God combined with professional therapy were instrumental in her battle with depression, she said during her presentation at the 10th Seeds of Hope celebration, which benefits the Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center.

Seeds of Hope focuses on the importance of mental health as a key factor in whole person care. Participants in the annual event seek to dispel the stigma surrounding the mental health field. Held in the Loma Linda University Health Centennial Complex on October 12, the 2017 Seeds of Hope featured success stories of two past patients and the presentation of the first Behavioral Health Champion Award.

Read the full story about Seeds of Hope at news.llu.edu. 

]]>
Thu, 19 Oct 2017 09:09:13 -0700
4264:32239 <![CDATA[Paralympic skier Josh Sundquist to keynote PossAbilities Sports Luncheon Nov. 1]]> By James Ponder Author, motivational speaker and Paralympic ski racer Josh Sundquist will headline the PossAbilities Sports Luncheon, which will be held noon to 2 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 1, at the Wong Kerlee International Conference Center at Loma Linda University Health.

Sundquist, who has spoken to audiences at Fortune 500 companies, inner city public schools and the White House, was diagnosed with a rare form of bone cancer when he was 9 years old, which required the amputation of his left leg. When he was 16, Sundquist began training as a ski racer and six years later, was named to the U.S. Paralympic Ski Team for the 2006 Paralympics in Turino, Italy. He is currently a member of the U.S. Amputee Soccer Team.

Tickets are available for $50 and may be obtained at www.teampossabilities.org or by calling the PossAbilities office at (909) 558-6384.

]]>
Thu, 19 Oct 2017 09:09:58 -0700
4264:32244 <![CDATA[Caution: Hard Lesson Ahead! — a devotional]]> By Randy Roberts 1 Samuel 4

Consider the broad brushstrokes of an ancient, sad saga. It was a tragic time in the history of ancient Israel. Those assigned to lead spiritually did anything but that. The sons of the spiritual leader, Eli, engaged in despicably sordid behavior, and they did it in the name of God! War had erupted between them and their nemesis, the Philistines, and things looked very bad for Israel.

But all was not lost. For, despite their morally deficient behavior, they still had the ark of God, the physical symbol of God’s spiritual presence. And the desperate Israelites depended on that ark — treating it as a magical talisman — to rescue them from disaster regardless of how decadent their behavior might be.

Thus it was that, when the ark of God arrived in their camp, the Israelite soldiers raised cries of jubilation loud enough to echo into the camp of the Philistines. Now frightened, the Philistines frantically tried to bolster each other’s courage. “We’re in trouble!” they shouted. “Nothing like this has happened before. Woe to us! Who will deliver us? Be men, and fight!” (see 1 Samuel 4:7–9). They needn’t have worried. When the battle was joined, they utterly routed the Israelites.

An Israelite messenger fled home to tell the tragic news. Upon hearing it, Eli, Israel’s aging, spineless leader, fell backwards off his chair, broke his neck and died. And his daughter-in-law, whose husband was also killed in the battle, went into labor and, before dying, delivered a boy she named Ichabod.

Ichabod means “the glory has departed.” In other words, the good old days are gone. All the good news was in last week’s headline. I’m a has-been. How’s that for a name to hang around your neck on your first day of school? How’s that for an enduring legacy?

What a strange narrative! What are we to make of it? Is it just a tragic old tale? A bizarre account that has nothing to do with us? Or could it be a story with an enduring moral?

Well, if nothing else, it at least suggests that we can’t depend on outward religious symbols and ignore unethical behavior and still expect God to be pleased. It at least indicates that how we treat each other counts.And, finally, it negatively illustrates a positive message that a prophet yet to appear on the stage of Israel’s history would bear. And that message is worth listening to, whether one lived in Eli’s day or whether one lives in ours. Here’s how the prophet Micah stated it:

O people, the Lord has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God. (Micah 6:8, NLT).

So, maybe for us the lesson is this: outward blessings, beautiful buildings and sacred monuments can never replace treating others with justice and mercy and walking humbly with God. Regardless of our history, our claims or our religious symbols, how we live before God and with each other matters.

—Randy Roberts, DMin, is vice president for spiritual life and mission at Loma Linda University Health.

 

]]>
Thu, 19 Oct 2017 09:38:44 -0700
4264:32247 <![CDATA[Modern Healthcare recognizes Angela Lalas as 2017 Up and Comer]]> By James Ponder Modern Healthcare, the industry’s leading source of health care business and policy news, research and information, has named Angela Lalas, MBA, senior vice president for finance at Loma Linda University Health, to its list of Up and Comers for 2017.

This year, the publication selected 15 outstanding individuals from among thousands of health care executives in the United States age 40 and younger. In choosing the 37-year-old Lalas, Modern Healthcare reported that she has provided financial oversight for the $2 billion, 1071-bed academic health system.

The publication also pointed out that under her financial leadership, the hospitals have improved financial performance for two consecutive years, citing an increase in combined net operating income from $14.4 million in 2014 to $104.7 million in 2016.

Lalas has previously been recognized as a Rising Star in Healthcare — in both 2016 and 2017 — by Becker’s Hospital Review and a 150 Hospital and Health System CFOs to Know in 2016, also by Becker’s Hospital Review.

Loma Linda University Health President Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, said the latest honor for Lalas is a testament to her knowledge and ability to navigate the financial challenges in the health care field.

“Angela is a leader who exemplifies excellence, integrity and professionalism in everything she does,” Hart said. “She is a valued asset to this organization, and we are proud of her accomplishments.” 

Lalas, who grew up in a Seventh-day Adventist family, told the publication that her choice of career in health care was a matter of faith, and that it is in the health care industry that she is able to positively impact the most lives. “I help support our providers in delivering top-quality care through faithful fiscal stewardship,” she said.

She added that she is honored and humbled to be chosen to represent Loma Linda University Health on the Modern Healthcare list. "I am so grateful to God for blessing me with the privilege of serving with an outstanding team of mentors, colleagues, and coworkers here at Loma Linda,” Lalas said.

The complete list is available at  http://www.modernhealthcare.com/community/up-and-comers/2017/.

 

]]>
Thu, 19 Oct 2017 09:41:23 -0700
4264:32249 <![CDATA[Community and student artists invited to participate in annual Fall/Winter Classic Art Show]]> Community and student artists are invited to participate in the annual Fall/Winter Classic Art Show hosted by Loma Linda Cultural Arts Association at Drayson Center and Loma Linda Civic Center from Oct. 24 to Dec. 5.

Publicity Chair Sharan Bennett, JD, said participating artists may bring up to three works of art — paintings, drawings, photographs, fiber art or small sculptures — and that each piece must be ready to hang with wires in place. 

“We are looking for uplifting art that is appropriate for general viewing,” Bennett said. “No nudity or violence, please.”

Artists are invited to take their pieces to Drayson Center or the Civic Center on Tuesday, Oct. 24. Entries will be accepted at Civic Center from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and at Drayson Center from noon to 4 p.m.

Students are required to use a special entry form available at the Student Activities Center. This is no entry fee for LLU students. For LLCAA members, the fee is $7 per entry. For non-members, it is $10 per entry.

]]>
Thu, 19 Oct 2017 09:51:30 -0700
4264:32208 <![CDATA[God Still Speaks — a devotional]]> By Dilys Brooks And Samuel said, ‘Speak, for Your servant is listening.’” –1 Samuel 3:10

Have you ever wanted to hear from God? Perhaps you had a major decision to make or prayed earnestly for a positive result on an exam, test, interview or collaboration. You pause anxiously for an answer. The anticipation can be agonizingly arduous as you wait and wait and wait. For many of us who work for Loma Linda University Health or are matriculated in the university, we came in response to a sense of calling.

One of my favorite stories to read in the scriptures is found in 1 Samuel 3. I can’t recall how old I was when I first heard it. I vaguely remember reading it in the Uncle Arthur Bible stories when I was quite young. In the 12 years since I arrived to serve Loma Linda University Health, this story has deepened my understanding of what it means to listen.

We find the young boy Samuel serving in the temple under the tutelage of the high priest, Eli. According to the instructions given by God to Moses, services were carried out daily, monthly and annually to address the sin problem and create a place where God could live among them.

Yet there is a strange idea introduced in this narrative. There had been no consistent communication from the Lord for many years.

The responsibilities that accompany our roles as scholars, managers, health care providers, executives, researchers or support staff can often keep us so busy and distracted that we may find ourselves wondering why we can’t hear from God. Just as in the time period of our story, the good news for us today is that God still speaks!

Samuel’s sleep is interrupted three times before dawn by a voice calling his name. The priest recognizes that the Lord wants to communicate with this young boy and instructs him on how to respond if called a fourth time: “Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.”

Perhaps, like Samuel, some of us have never heard the voice of the Lord before. And there may be others of us who are like Eli and have lost our perception of what God’s voice sounds like. Despite both these scenarios, what is clear to me is that God still speaks!

Listening is a skill that takes practice. During this week’s Week of Renewal, we have spent time as a community being reminded of how important it is to make time to listen to God and each other. It takes intentional practice to be aware of the presence of God while we attempt to continue His ministry to the people in the San Bernardino community and beyond. While serving others in the name of God, it is imperative that we do not fail to make time to listen to Him personally and corporately.

I am thankful that God still speaks! Join me in making these five words a daily prayer and practice while walking on campus, walking into a meeting, before entering a patient’s room or speaking to students:

“Speak, Lord, I am listening.”

With God’s help this should not be difficult to accomplish in an academic setting. Classes are in session.

—Dilys Brooks, MDiv, is associate campus chaplain for Loma Linda University.

 

 

]]>
Thu, 12 Oct 2017 12:45:55 -0700
4264:32209 <![CDATA[Free cooking demo: fighting cancer in the kitchen]]> Loma Linda University Cancer Center and the Living Whole Wellness Program will present a cooking demonstration for employees and students to coincide with Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Chef Esmerelda Valluru, MS, RD, will showcase cruciferous vegetables, followed by a discussion of nutrient content and taste testing. Attendees will enjoy samples and leave with take-home recipes. 

The free event takes place from 6–7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 18, in the kitchen at Nichol Hall. Seating is limited. RSVP by calling ext. 14007.

This event is part of the 2017 series of cancer-fighting foods demonstrations.

 

]]>
Thu, 12 Oct 2017 12:47:14 -0700
4264:32210 <![CDATA[California offering help for survivors of Las Vegas mass shooting]]> The state of California is encouraging California residents impacted by the Oct. 1 Las Vegas mass shooting to contact their local Victim/Witness Assistance Center at 800-777-9229 or at www.victims.ca.gov/lasvegas.

Help is available for survivors of those who were killed and anyone who was injured or otherwise impacted, as well as their immediate family members. The California Victim Compensation Board can help pay for funeral expenses, medical bills, mental health treatment, lost wages and more.

Survivors and family members are encouraged to apply now, regardless of whether or not expenses have been incurred.

]]>
Thu, 12 Oct 2017 12:48:22 -0700
4264:32211 <![CDATA[Wil Alexander Wholeness Series begins with Oct. 18 presentation on healthy pleasures]]> By James Ponder The Wil Alexander Wholeness Series — 11 free presentations on a variety of topics related to wholeness — will host its inaugural event of the 2017-2018 season with an Oct. 18 lecture by David Sobel, MD, MPH, adjunct professor of medicine at Stanford University School of Medicine. All presentations will be held on Wednesday evenings from 5 p.m. to 5:50 p.m. in Damazo Amphitheater at the Centennial Complex on the campus of Loma Linda University Health.

Next week, in his lecture titled “Happiness and Health: Enriching Life with Healthy Pleasures,” Sobel will present scientific evidence suggesting that doing what is pleasurable — whether defined as sensory delights, selfless pleasures, optimism or laughter — pays off twice in both immediate enjoyment and better health.

Future dates and presentations in the Wednesday series include:

  • Nov. 1: Film producer Annie O’Neil will present her multiple-award-winning film, “Phil’s Camino" and share the story of how it came to be in "Phil's Camino: a short film about a long walk”
  • Nov. 15: Barbara Hernandez, PhD, MFT, professor of medical education at Loma Linda University School of Medicine, will discuss “Nurturing wholeness in relationships”
  • Nov. 29: Brian Sharp, PhD, associate professor in the School of Allied Health Professions, will lead an LLU all-school panel in sharing the story of how a couple, injured in a car accident in Reche Canyon, triggered a creative response in “Teamwork in action: a powerful story of interprofessional collaboration.”
  • Dec. 6: In “The beauty of Christmas: a concert by Alessandra Sorace,” the vocalist, who has been performing since she was a child, will take the audience on a musical journey back to the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem
  • Jan. 10: Adam Arechiga, PsyD, DrPH, MA, associate dean of academic and student affairs at the LLU School of Behavioral Health, will discuss “Anxiety and loneliness in graduate school”  
  • Jan. 24: Danny Handysides, DrPH, MPH, CHG, assistant dean and assistant professor at the LLU School of Public Health, will discuss “The war on weed: ethical, legal and medical issues of marijuana”
  • Feb. 7: Attendees will help select the winners of The Wil Alexander Wholeness Series Student Film Festival, featuring videos created around the theme of “Love and wholeness”
  • Feb. 28: Chris Stanley, a pastor at Redlands Seventh-day Adventists Church, will discuss the benefits of dedicating time and energy to a church in “Finding and connecting with a community of faith”
  • Mar. 7: Henry Garcia, PT, DPT, OCS, assistant professor of physical therapy in the LLU School of Allied Health Professions, will present strategies for minimizing obesity in children in “Childhood obesity: challenges we face”
  • Apr. 11: Wes Youngberg, DrPH, MPH, FACLM, lifestyle medicine specialist and clinical nutritionist at the Youngberg Lifestyle Medicine Clinic, will discuss “Insulin resistance of brain and brawn: prevention and treatment of diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease.”

The Wil Alexander Wholeness Series was named for the late wholeness and spirituality pioneer whose groundbreaking work on whole person care spanned more than five decades at Loma Linda University Health. He served as professor at the LLU School of Medicine, emeritus professor at the LLU School of Religion, and as founding director of the Center for Spiritual Life and Wholeness. He passed away on Nov. 16, 2016, at the age of 95.

Learn more about the Wil Alexander Wholeness Series.          

]]>
Thu, 12 Oct 2017 12:49:43 -0700
4264:32212 <![CDATA[School of Religion events to kick off this weekend]]> By Heather Reifsnyder “Will Women’s Ordination Split the Church?” This panel discussion at 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 14, at Loma Linda University Church, will kick off the 2017-2018 event season for LLU School of Religion.

The discussion will be moderated by Jim Walters, PhD, director of the School of Religion’s Humanities Program. Panelists will be Randy Roberts, DMin, senior pastor for LLU Church; Jon Paulien, PhD, dean of LLU School of Religion; Ray Tetz, director of communication and community engagement for the Pacific Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists; and Sandy Roberts, DMin, president of the Southeastern California Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. The event is co-sponsored by the Association of Adventist Women.                                                                                             

Future events include a play adaptation of George Orwell’s classic novel 1984. It will be presented Oct. 28-29 and Nov. 4-5. It is a Wright/Huffman production of the script by Robert Owens, Wilton Hall Jr. and William Miles Jr., hosted by the School of Religion Humanities Program.

Focused on Hinduism at Loma Linda University, the second program sponsored by LLU School of Religion’s William Johnsson Center for Understanding World Religions will take place Dec. 2. Hindu scholars and LLU faculty and students will share their thoughts and experiences.

Further information about School of Religion events this fall is offered in the PDF below. Information about winter and spring 2018 events will be forthcoming. 

 

 

]]>
Thu, 12 Oct 2017 13:00:58 -0700
4264:32213 <![CDATA[Ergonomics — how can it help you?]]> By Heather Reifsnyder October is National Ergonomics Month and a good time to find out about ergonomics services provided by Loma Linda University Health. The Department of Risk Management provides workstation assessments and office in-services on ergonomics.

Ergonomics fits the physical aspects of the work environment to the human body. Proper workstation ergonomics make being on the job more comfortable and efficient while also minimizing employee risk of developing musculoskeletal problems.                                                                                                                       

Learn more about available services for employees visiting the ergonomics program page on One Portal.

Additionally, the PDF below offers insight into art and science of ergonomics.

 

]]>
Thu, 12 Oct 2017 13:02:48 -0700
4264:32214 <![CDATA[Express shuttle service begins between Shepardson and Centennial parking lots]]> Heather Reifsnyder An express shuttle is now available to students who park in Shepardson Lot. This shuttle will run between Shepardson Lot and Lot X (Centennial Complex), Monday through Friday from 7–10:30 a.m. only. For access to Shepardson Lot or Lot X outside of these times, please use the white and blue shuttles.

For a list of special events being held at Centennial Complex, which could impact parking, please check One Portal for information and the master calendar.

The Department of Security Services also offers students and employees rides from their car to their destination/work area. They can be called 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at (909) 558-4320 or ext. 44320.

Contact Whitney Smith at ext. 55158 or wpsmith@llu.edu for more information. 

]]>
Thu, 12 Oct 2017 13:04:14 -0700
4264:32215 <![CDATA[Influenza immunization requirements begin]]> By Heather Reifsnyder Employee Health Services is now offering influenza immunizations for employees of Loma Linda University Health in preparation for the 2017-2018 flu season.

All employees who enter clinical areas must either receive the in?uenza immunization or provide a written declination, as required by California Senate Bill 739, if they work a single day from Oct. 1, 2017, through March 31, 2018.

Employees who do not receive the immunization must wear a mask beginning Nov. 1 and continuing at least through March, by order of the San Bernardino County Health Department. They must also complete their declination form by Dec. 31.

Staff members who receive the flu vaccine through Employee Health Services will be given a blue-and-white sticker for their badges, signifying their immunized status. Those who get the immunization at another location can receive the sticker after completing a “received-elsewhere” form.

The PDF below provides a schedule for when Employee Health Services will offer the vaccination at various locations around campus between Oct. 16 and Nov. 7.

To learn more, visit the Employee Health Services page on One Portal, or call ext. 88797, or email employeehealthservices@llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 12 Oct 2017 13:05:40 -0700
4264:32100 <![CDATA[Recognizing His Voice — a devotional]]> By Kathy McMillan “His sons, however, did not listen to their father’s rebuke … ” –1 Samuel 2:25

“You’re not listening.” A mother spoke to her son in a sing-songy voice. I turned to observe from where I was sitting in the park, soaking in the sunshine. Her 3- or 4-year-old was climbing on the playground equipment, apparently oblivious to his mother. “Jacob, come down!” she said sweetly, but a bit more firmly. “I don’t want you to get hurt.” The boy climbed higher, triumphant.

The mother was getting irritated and started to lose her sweetness. “Jacob, I need you to come down immediately.” There was no response — not even a glance in the mother’s direction. As time went on, the woman became more irritable. She marched around the playground, trying to find the best place to view her son. Her temper escalated. “Get down right now or you’re going to be sorry!” she called emphatically. Up until that point, Jacob had given no indication that he had heard, but with the last demand, he looked at his mother and defiantly took a step backward, tumbling off the top step. His mother rushed to his side, both fearful and exasperated at his lack of response to her commands.

In our passage today from 1 Samuel, Eli’s sons blatantly abandoned the course that God had set out for the priests of Israel. They threatened the Israelites and took more than their allotted share from the people. They behaved badly in many ways. Eli pleaded with them to change their ways, but scripture says they “did not listen to their father’s rebuke.” 

What causes people not to listen? Perhaps it is overconfidence, arrogance, curiosity, fear, misunderstanding or even good intentions. In the context of our story, the aging father cautioned his sons to be respectful of God’s commandments concerning their duties as priests, just as the mother at the playground strongly cautioned her son to trust her wisdom.

But it wasn’t enough to simply hear; listening necessitated a change in behavior. Changing behavior is difficult and some would rather not make the effort. While not listening may sometimes be appealing, there are consequences.

Listening to God’s voice is essential to a vibrant spiritual life. We learn to hear Him through an intentional relationship built over time on love and trust. Jesus, as recorded in John 10, taught about the good shepherd. He said that sheep follow the shepherd “because they know His voice.”

A vital responsibility for us at Loma Linda University Health is to know the voice of Jesus so that we will unmistakably recognize it. There are many voices calling to us. 

It will change our lives if His voice stands out above the others. 

—Kathy McMillan is director of Employee Spiritual Care at Loma Linda University Medical Center.

 

 

]]>
Thu, 05 Oct 2017 10:03:23 -0700
4264:32101 <![CDATA[Serve the community by volunteering at Family Health Fair]]> By Heather Reifsnyder The popular annual Family Health Fair and 5K require teamwork to create a successful day of community-building and outreach, and that team includes volunteers.

Employees and students of Loma Linda University Health are encouraged to sign up to volunteer for the 2017 Family Health Fair, which will take place Sunday, Oct. 29, at LLU Drayson Center.

Volunteers are needed to help with the 5K walk/run and the fair’s various offerings, which include free flu shots, health screenings, games and activities for kids and families, food and prizes. Please sign up by Monday, Oct. 16.

Volunteer for the Family Health Fair or learn more by calling 1-877-LLUMC-4U. 

]]>
Thu, 05 Oct 2017 10:05:58 -0700
4264:32110 <![CDATA[Diet and lifestyle research findings gain traction]]> Compiled by Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Health researchers have published several headline-catching research studies since May 2017 relating to diet, lifestyle and health outcomes. 

The studies provide insight into reducing weight gain, maintaining a healthy body mass index, promoting senior nutrition, and preventing colorectal cancers.

Read coverage of the studies at news.llu.edu.

“Eating nuts can reduce weight gain”

“Calcium or other components of dairy matter in protecting against colorectal cancers”  

“Eating walnuts improves senior nutrition in unexpected ways”

“Researchers find links between meal frequency and BMI”

“Eating beans to reduce gas”

The articles were based on studies published respectively in the European Journal of Nutrition, Public Health Nutrition, British Journal of Nutrition, Journal of Nutrition and Climatic Change.

Additionally, they garnered media coverage from global locations such as the United Kingdom and New Zealand. The (UK) Telegraph, for instance, reported on the study about meal frequency and BMI: “Breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dine like a pauper to lose weight, scientists confirm.

Additional media outlets who reported on the studies included:

Beans/beef study: Fast CompanyRedditFood NavigatorPopular MechanicsScience Daily

Calcium/colorectal cancer: Adventist Review

Walnuts and senior nutrition: Science Blog

Nuts and reduced weight gain: Daily Mail

BMI/meal frequency: DelishAdventist ReviewCBS 2MSNDaily MailNew Zealand HeraldUS News & World Report 

 

 

]]>
Thu, 05 Oct 2017 11:31:38 -0700
4264:32104 <![CDATA[New Advanced Neuro Recovery Center to hold open house]]> By James Ponder The new Advanced Neuro Recovery Center will demonstrate the latest therapies for treating neurological conditions and cognitive impairments during an open house Wednesday, Oct. 11, from 4 to 6 p.m., at the center’s location in Loma Linda University Medical Center East Campus.

Remarks will begin at 4:15 p.m., followed by tours and refreshments.

The Advanced Neuro Recovery Center features a multi-disciplinary approach, offering motor therapy and perceptual, cognitive and language memory rehab.

The open house will feature live demonstrations of the InMotion ARM and InMotion WRIST interactive therapy systems, Balance Master device, and the Ekso-skeleton robot suit. The first two systems use robotic technology to help patients recover strength, flexibility and movement in their hands, arms and shoulders. The third evaluates patients for balance and vestibular issues. The fourth uses robotic technology to help them regain balance and the ability to walk.

The Advanced Neuro Recovery Center is located in room 129 of East Campus’s Brandstater Ambulatory Rehabilitation Center, 11406 Loma Linda Dr. Enter through the west entrance.

]]>
Thu, 05 Oct 2017 10:37:55 -0700
4264:32106 <![CDATA[Notes from the President — The future begins now]]> By Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   October 2017
The future begins now

A look ahead at where and whom we’ll serve

  
By design, we have spent considerable time and energy over the last several years raising money toward our Vision 2020 philanthropic goal of $360 million for our new hospitals, projects, scholarships and research. With God’s blessing, we have now passed $267 million toward that goal, leaving less than $93 million to raise. Amazing! The last part will be the hardest, but it does feel like our goal is in sight! And the balance of our construction costs is also arranged and available.

But the real goal of Vision 2020 is not just buildings or fundraising. It is a transformation of Loma Linda University Health to prepare for the next 50 years and beyond. And transformation is primarily a function of people and organization. So this effort has been accompanied by an equally significant movement we have called One Loma Linda.

As One Loma Linda has matured, I have been pleased and grateful for the steps this organization and its myriad parts have taken to gain greater efficiency and collaboration. Together we are stronger and more able to prepare for the changes rapidly coming into the Inland Empire, this country, and indeed the world. Our legal structures, financial alignment, shared services, and clinical integration are all moving together nicely. Now it is time to address the true purpose of One Loma Linda — making this 16,000-employee and 4,500-student enterprise maximally effective in its learning and service activities.  

IndioClinic

To get there, we are now launching a yearlong strategic planning process that will seek to encompass our geographic, functional, and people parameters. Regionally, we need a plan to stretch from our hospital in Murrieta to our Ambulatory Center in Beaumont, recently renamed Loma Linda University Health – Beaumont-Banning. This will include our new clinic in Indio and our expanding affiliation with SAC Health System as a Federally Qualified Health Center operating across the Inland Empire. It will place an emphasis on population health, value-based care, and the growing interest by consumers in their own health. It will include a national presence on a number of issues as well as our affiliation with Adventist Health International and its growing network of mission hospitals around the world, including our newest global campuses planned for Haiti and Nepal.

If anything can define these plans, it is that we go where there is need — to serve, educate, develop and empower. It also means that we remain committed to a careful balance and integration of education and service, with a strong overlay of inquiry and research.

MurrietaNICU

Several parts of this planning process have already begun. For our Western Association of Schools and Colleges accrediting self-study due in 2019, we have chosen the theme of One Loma Linda, with the intent to develop and demonstrate how our new integration can truly benefit our educational processes. We are also assessing the clinic marketplace to plan and locate our healthcare services. The Inland Empire is rapidly consolidating its healthcare organizations, and it is imperative that Loma Linda University Health stake out its own footprint to protect our educational and service commitments. Our new neonatal intensive care unit in Murrieta, along with plans for a Family Medicine residency there, and our new children’s clinic in Indio with SACHS, are specific examples of serving local needs. We will also need to establish new partnerships and affiliations. In addition, we need to more effectively link with our community doctors and hospitals, determining where the most cost-effective services can best be provided.

Of course, all of this is in anticipation of our new medical complex on the main campus by 2020. This new building will be a welcome addition to our current plant, but ultimately it will be our people and services that make Loma Linda University Health what it has been and will continue to be.

With this growth will come new questions and challenges. Who should we partner with and in what way? How big is big enough to maintain market share? How do we maintain our “Loma Linda experience” for patients, staff, faculty, and students? We have worked hard and long to walk the talk, creating something special for our people and the academic and clinical services they provide — can we maintain that as we expand into new relationships? Do we have the gravitas, the determination and the moxie to bend when we need to bend, but remain steadfast on our bedrock principles?

Let us move forward with boldness and humility, ever mindful of the threats we must circumnavigate and the opportunities we must claim. At stake is the very mission to which we have dedicated ourselves and the place we all love and call Loma Linda University Health.

“Richard

 

 

 


Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

Vision 2020 – The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow

]]>
Thu, 05 Oct 2017 10:41:05 -0700
4264:32105 <![CDATA[Overflow parking for Medical Center/Children's Hospital staff]]> By Heather Reifsnyder School is in session, which means a campus full of students and increased competition for parking. Staff of LLU Medical Center and Children’s Hospital can park in the J1 or Shepardson lots when the garages are full. 

Lot J1 is located in front of Ronald McDonald House and is part of the green shuttle route. Part of the blue route, Shepardson lot sits at the corner of Shepardson Drive and Benton Street, adjacent to the Drayson Center super field.

Employees should allot extra time for getting to work to accommodate increased time for parking and walking or riding the shuttle.

For more information about shuttle service, call ext. 53020. For questions about parking, call ext. 53025.

]]>
Thu, 05 Oct 2017 10:39:02 -0700
4264:32107 <![CDATA[Expression of support following Las Vegas mass shooting]]> By Richard Hart and Kerry Heinrich On the night of Oct. 1, our country again fell victim to an act of hate and violence with another mass shooting occurring, this time, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Currently with 59 deaths, this is the worst mass shooting event in our nation’s history. We invite your prayers for all those impacted by this latest tragedy. Our hearts grieve with those who have lost loved ones.

As details of the shooting emerged, we were again reminded of how events seemingly far away can have an impact close to home. Four of our students, three from the School of Nursing and one from the School of Medicine, were in the crowd. Additionally, several of our medical staff members were there, one of whose husband was grazed by a bullet, but not seriously injured. We were relieved to learn of their safety, though all were understandably shaken. Unfortunately, a relative of one of our faculty members was among the fatalities.

Jesus calls us to love one another as He loves us. In times of crises we must remember His words: “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:35) These tragic moments remind us to offer our emotional support and encouragement as medical facilities and their staffs in Las Vegas are called into service, just as we were on the day of the San Bernardino shooting less than two years ago.

We are currently aware of three facilities in Las Vegas that are treating the majority of those injured — University Medical Center, Sunrise Hospital and Medical Center, and Dignity Health-St. Rose Dominican Hospital.                                                                                  

Loma Linda University Medical Center is planning to send large banners with staff signatures and messages of support to each hospital where victims were treated. These banners will offer our love, prayers, support and caring.

They are displayed for signing in the A-level employee entrance of the Medical Center. An additional banner will be posted for signing at LLU Medical Center – Murrieta.

We know that each of these horrible situations produces a wide range of feelings and emotions within the hearts of health care professionals as they conduct lifesaving duties. Let our care, love and empathy serve as a beacon of light and encouragement to our colleagues in Las Vegas as they continue to deal with this moment of darkness and evil.

Thank you,

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President of Loma Linda University Health
Kerry Heinrich, JD
Chief executive officer for Loma Linda University Medical Center

]]>
Thu, 05 Oct 2017 10:52:41 -0700
4264:32030 <![CDATA[The Gift of Listening]]> By Terry Swenson Research reveals that we are exposed to 5,000 to 20,000 advertisements a day! It’s easy to see that we are inundated with things demanding our attention. To survive, we have perfected the ability to not hear, to tune out the chaos. But that tuning out comes at a high cost to us, personally, and to our relationships with others and with God.

Stop and think about your interactions with individuals in your life. Have you ever acted like you heard your significant other, but internally you were thinking about anything but what they were saying? Have you ever pretended to hear your friend or co-worker as they were spilling out their life’s problems to you while you were really multitasking on your phone or computer?

The reality is that we must do more than simply hear. We need to listen. In Revelation 12:10, Jesus makes the statement, “Anyone with ears to hear must listen.” There is a huge difference between the two! To “hear” is just to register noise as it strikes our ears. To “listen” is to hear, acknowledge, process and respond. Listening encompasses our whole being.

Our devotional two weeks ago focused on the personal drama of a young woman, Hannah, who was childless. The love story between her and her husband, Elkanah, is moving. The conflict between her and his second wife in a polygamous marriage, Peninnah, is the stuff soap operas are made of. You can read about it in 1 Samuel 1.

Hannah poured out her dilemma and desire to God in prayer. She trusted in God. She believed that He listened to her. And He did. God listened. God cared. God acted, and Hannah was blessed with a son, Samuel. Hannah had promised to raise him to be a man of God who would serve God all his life. When Samuel was old enough, Hannah took him to the Temple and to the high priest, Eli. And that’s where we find the passage for today: “Now Samuel, though only a boy, was the Lord’s helper … (he) grew up in the presence of the Lord.” (1 Samuel 2:18,21).

Here are the lessons: First, God loves us. God not only listens to us when we speak to Him, He listens to us. And His listening results in His doing. Second, it is not enough for us to just listen to stories, promises and passages out of scripture. God wants us to be like Samuel. He wants us to listen to Him. He wants us to live in deep relationship with Him all day, every day.

And when we listen to Him, we live our lives in a way that reflects Him. We become His helpers to listen to others, to care for others, to act on the behalf of others. This is essential to us working at an organization with “Many Strengths. One Mission.” Listening enables us to live out our mission to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ.

Love others around you well by giving them the gift of listening.        

—Terry Swenson, DMin, is campus chaplain for Loma Linda University.

]]>
Thu, 28 Sep 2017 10:44:32 -0700
4264:32033 <![CDATA[Memorial service for John Lewis]]> Heather Reifsnyder John Lewis, PhD, whose teaching affected generations of students, will be remembered in a memorial service at 2 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 5, at Loma Linda University Church.

Lewis, who died Sept. 3, had taught at Loma Linda University since 1971. An expert in pathology and human anatomy, he held appointments in the School of Medicine and School of Allied Health Professions. He also provided instrumental support in developing the School of Medicine’s new pathologists’ assistant program.

“He was an unparalleled lecturer and superb educator,” said Roger Hadley, MD, dean of the School of Medicine

]]>
Thu, 28 Sep 2017 11:26:40 -0700
4264:32034 <![CDATA[Falling in L-O-V-E with dentistry ]]> By Genesis Gonzalez While growing up, Kylin Hamann spent summers in China living with various host families and studying Mandarin. During her sophomore year in high school she lived in Sichuan province where she immersed herself in its culture, people, and language. Kylin enjoys using Mandarin to communicate with her Chinese patients on the School of Dentistry’s main clinic floor as well as at The Blessing Center in Redlands, California.

At that student-run free dental clinic for the underserved, Kylin provides dental services each Tuesday to patients of all ages and backgrounds. “It’s a blessing to work alongside dedicated classmates who are passionate about serving others through dentistry,” says the class of 2018 Loma Linda University School of Dentistry student.

Kylin has come to view dentistry as more than a profession: it’s a relationship with each patient built on trust and love. “People truly are affected by their health and how they perceive their smile,” says Kylin. “It is my goal to care for the person in a way that goes beyond the teeth.” With every appointment, she takes the time to get to know her patients and to help them understand what is involved in the procedures they need.

Her commitment to provide compassionate care for every patient traces back to an early age. Kylin always admired the ability of her mother — Beth Hamann, DDS’85 — to balance work as a dentist while raising six children. “Her love for dentistry is evident, but more than that her passion for connecting with people and building meaningful relationships is beautiful.”

As Kylin matured, her mother would share stories from her education at Loma Linda University’s School of Dentistry where one faculty member made a lasting impression. In Dr. Hamann’s first week as a dental student in 1981, a young professor walked up to the blackboard and wrote the word L-O-V-E. He told the class that if they were here for any other reason than to love patients, they should leave. This single indelible moment inspired Beth Hamann in a way that over the years nourished a similar inclination in her daughter.

Although Kylin had the option to attend several dental schools, she was drawn to the special place her mom always told her about — Loma Linda University School of Dentistry. “I wanted to find people like the young professor who inspired my mom so deeply.”

Kylin arrived at the Loma Linda University campus not knowing anyone and was a little nervous at first, as most students are. During her initial visit to the Blessing Center, she was welcomed immediately by Mark Carpenter, DDS’80, who made her feel part of the team. She remembers how he took the time to get to know her and inquired about her interests. “You seem like you’re a service-oriented person,” he remarked, “I’d love for you to come back and be a part of the group.” That evening Kylin called her mother to share how her day had gone and described how warmly she was received by her supervising clinician.

“This professor is so amazing, he made me feel so very welcome,” Kylin exclaimed. Dr. Hamann was pleased to hear such positive news and very curious to know the dentist’s name. When Kylin told her it was Dr. Carpenter, her mother’s reaction was joyful surprise: “That’s the person I’ve been telling you about your whole life!”

Beyond her work at the Blessing Center, Kylin spends most of her time with classes and lab assignments. She relishes every opportunity to connect with faculty members and build relationships that inspire her professionally and personally. One of those who has played an integral role in her mentoring is Kwang “Peter” Chung, DDS’76, MA’81. “He will never compromise or settle when it comes to providing excellent care,” she says. “It’s an honor to attempt to follow in that legacy of love and clinical excellence that Loma Linda University School of Dentistry seems to cultivate.”

As a fourth-year student, Kylin was selected to participate in the School of Dentistry’s implant dentistry honors program for which she attends classes taught by graduate implant and prosthodontic faculty members. The unique program offers her the opportunity to shadow and assist in various implant surgeries. “I get to learn from the best,” she said.

For the past three summers, Kylin has provided dental care to families and children in Nicaragua as part of the School of Dentistry’s Service Learning trips during which she has come to know the children she’s treated and has been able to watch their progress. She sees value in returning consistently to the same community and hopes to go back in the future. Also on her to-do list are dental mission trips to China.

Looking for balance in her life, Kylin will run the Chicago Marathon this October. She often starts her days at 4 a.m. with a run in the dark. “School can overtake your life and it’s hard to balance everything at times,” she says. “Training for the marathon gives me incentive to find the time.”

Kylin graduated in 2014 with her bachelor’s degree, a dual major in biochemistry and Chinese, from Calvin College in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Following graduation next year from Loma Linda University, she will return home to Phoenix, Arizona, to partner professionally with her mother and her fiancé, Eric Chen, DDS’14, at the family’s dental practice. 

]]>
Thu, 28 Sep 2017 11:32:30 -0700
4264:32036 <![CDATA[Enhanced health care services to Banning, Beaumont]]> By Larry Becker A significant increase in the health care services provided locally to residents in Banning, Beaumont and surrounding communities is underway.

Highland Springs Medical Plaza will be renamed Loma Linda University Health Beaumont-Banning on Sunday, Oct. 1. Loma Linda University Health has been offering primary and specialty care at the Highland Springs facility since 2009.

“While Loma Linda University Health Beaumont-Banning may be a new name, our commitment to those living and working in this area is the same — to offer world-class, whole person care right in their community,” said Kerry Heinrich, JD, Loma Linda University Medical Center’s chief executive officer.

Area residents will see a significant expansion of primary care services. Construction of a new primary care suite is nearing completion and is scheduled to open in mid-November. Initially, three primary care physicians will provide services, with plans underway to have as many as eight full-time physicians on site in the future.

The expanded primary care suite will enhance the current services Loma Linda University Health provides in the medical plaza, including advanced imaging, an outpatient surgery center and an infusion center. Primary care physicians will also help patients gain access to the entire Loma Linda University Health system, including the Level 1 Trauma Center and the Children’s Hospital’s advanced Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

An urgent care center, offering walk-in care to community residents 365 days per year, will remain at the location. Beaver Medical Clinic, the current provider of the service, will continue to operate the center while an orderly transition of the service to Loma Linda University Health takes place.

Loma Linda University Health has launched a website sharing details on the many services available at the Beaumont-Banning facility.  

]]>
Thu, 28 Sep 2017 11:35:52 -0700
4264:32038 <![CDATA[Photo contest for Prayer Notes now open]]> By Heather Reifsnyder Employees and students are invited to submit their nature photographs for the annual contest to be featured on the Prayer Notes used in patient care at Loma Linda University Health.

Up to 10 photos per employee or student may be entered by the deadline of Friday, Oct. 20. Submissions must have been photographed by the entrant.

Similar to a postcard, each Prayer Note features a serene nature photo on the front and an encouraging verse of scripture on the back. The cards say, “I prayed for you today and asked God to bless you.” 

To fit the format, photos must be inspirational, in color and of nature, and they must be able to be cropped to 5.5 by 3.5 inches — either vertical or horizontal — without losing impact.

In addition to winners having their photos featured on the cards, prizes are as follows:

  • 1st place – $100 gift card 
  • 2nd place – $75 gift card 
  • 3rd place – $50 gift card 
  • Runners up  – $25 gift card 

Submit photographs on CD or flash drive to Kathy McMillan in the Department of Employee Spiritual Care, located in Medical Center room 6700H, or email them to kmcmillan@llu.edu.

Download the flyer below for full details.

]]>
Thu, 28 Sep 2017 11:40:31 -0700
4264:32041 <![CDATA[Try a new commute method during Rideshare Week ]]> By Heather Reifsnyder Employees of Loma Linda University Health who pledge to try a more earth-friendly mode of commute at least one day next week, Oct. 2-6, will be entered to win items from a long list of contest prizes.

“Go Green and Save Green” is this year’s Rideshare Week theme, giving nod to the potential cash savings to employees who walk, bike, carpool, take the bus, or vanpool to work. 

Loma Linda University Health offers monthly cash or gasoline subsidies to employees who commute greenly instead of driving alone to work. They also reap the satisfaction of knowing they are helping reduce traffic and air pollution.

“Many people have found they like the alternate commute mode once they gave it try,” said Patricia Ibarra, employee transportation coordinator at Loma Linda University Health.

Matching service is available to help employees find commute partners who live near each other and have similar work hours.

For more information, email rideshare@llu.edu or call ext. 53033.

]]>
Thu, 28 Sep 2017 11:49:03 -0700
4264:32045 <![CDATA[Invitations emailed for Employee Engagement Survey]]> By Heather Reifsnyder The 2017 annual Employee Engagement Survey is now open at Loma Linda University Health through Tuesday, Oct. 17. Employees are invited to share their opinions about various aspects of their working environment.

The survey currently applies to employees of LLU Health Care, Medical Center, East Campus, Surgical Hospital, Children’s Hospital, Behavioral Medicine Center, Murrieta campus and Shared Services. (Loma Linda University employees will take the survey in spring 2018.)

Each employee of those entities hired prior to June 23 of this year was emailed a unique link on Tuesday, Sept. 26, to take the survey online. It can be completed at work, at home or on a mobile device.

This year, the survey is in a new format with updated questions designed to give a fuller picture of what it’s like to work at Loma Linda University Health. The 10-to-15 minute survey is confidential; only combined group responses of five or more people will be reported.

Hear from President Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, in the video below about why employee feedback is so valued at Loma Linda University Health.

]]>
Thu, 28 Sep 2017 11:55:57 -0700
4264:31950 <![CDATA[Complimentary breast and prostate cancer assessment]]> Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Cancer Center has created two complimentary online questionnaires to assess your cancer risk — one for breast and one for prostate. Take the tests at LomaLindaCancerQuiz.org.

Employees of Loma Linda University Health who take one of the assessments will be entered to win two tickets to “We Can Survive,” an Oct. 21 concert at Hollywood Bowl celebrating cancer survivors. Winners will be announced on the Cancer Center Facebook page Oct. 6 at 4 p.m.

Loma Linda University Cancer Center has the latest screening technology for the early detection of breast and prostate cancer.

It is the leading cancer center in the region, offering comprehensive care from diagnosis to survivorship. The Cancer Center’s focus on whole person care ensures that the entire cancer treatment process is individualized and focused on treating physical, emotional and spiritual needs. The Center is composed of 11 centers of excellence, each dedicated to patients with specific cancer diagnoses.

]]>
Thu, 21 Sep 2017 11:00:26 -0700
4264:31947 <![CDATA[Coming soon: Loma Linda University Children's Health]]> By Scott Perryman I am happy to share with our employees that planning is well underway to expand our delivery of specialized children’s services throughout our region. To affirm our commitment to healing in our communities, we will be introducing Loma Linda University Children’s Health in early 2018 to help our families clearly understand that we are even more than a hospital. This initiative helps bring all services together including clinical care, research and hospital support. It is vital that parents — wherever they live or take their children to receive medical care — clearly understand they are benefitting from the same outstanding quality of health care each of you provides daily here at Children’s Hospital.

It is important for us all to be familiar with this plan, so I want to encourage you to take the time to read the questions and answers attached for download below. We want to hear your reactions as different initiatives launch during the coming months.  

Thank you for all you do to share the healing ministry of Jesus Christ to each one of our patients.

Sincerely,

Scott Perryman
Senior vice president and administrator 
Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital

]]>
Thu, 21 Sep 2017 10:53:26 -0700
4264:31945 <![CDATA[Webinar: When stress becomes burnout ]]> If constant stress has you feeling helpless, disillusioned and completely exhausted, you may be on the road to burnout. When it comes to burnout, prevention is the best approach. 

Loma Linda University Health’s Living Whole Wellness Program is hosting a free live-streamed presentation on this topic Wednesday, Sept. 27, from 5:30–6 p.m. 

Viewers will be able to ask questions and interact live with featured speaker Roger Woodruff, MD, about beating burnout. 

For more information, call 909-651-4007

Viewers who missed last month’s live broadcast on the power of community service can view it on demand, along with numerous past presentations, in the Wellness Live archive.

]]>
Thu, 21 Sep 2017 10:51:29 -0700
4264:31943 <![CDATA[Murrieta employees: deadline for Engaged! health plan]]> Benefit-eligible employees, and their spouses, of Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta have until Sept. 30 to fulfill requirements for 2018 health coverage through the Engaged! Premier Plan.

The three requirements are as follows.

• Biometric screening                               

Those who have not yet completed their biometric screening may do so at a LabCorp location. For the form to do so, please contact LLU Medical Center – Murrieta Department of Human Resources via email at dabanuelos@llu.edu or by calling 951-704-1337.

• Wellness assessment

• 100 LivingWell flex points logged

Thirty-five points are earned through completing the biometric screening and wellness assessment. Earn the remaining 65 flex points through fitness activities, classes, annual health screenings, vaccinations, volunteering and more. Flex points may be prorated based on your coverage effective date. Refer to Engaged! Plan Requirements for total flex points required.

Learn more at https://livingwell.ah.org. If prompted enter security code livingwell. For support with this website, call 888-252-8150.

To verify completion status of the three requirements, email Eligibility@ah.org or call 800-441-2524, option 2.

The health plans for LLU Medical Center – Murrieta are administered through AdventistHealth.

 

]]>
Thu, 21 Sep 2017 10:47:47 -0700
4264:31941 <![CDATA[Pickleball grand opening planned for Oct. 1]]> By Larry Kidder Loma Linda University Drayson Center and the Loma Linda Pickleball Club will join forces to unveil 26 newly resurfaced pickleball courts on Sunday, Oct. 1 — making Drayson the largest pickleball venue in the Inland Empire. Courts 1 and 3 through 6 have both tennis and pickleball lines, while Court 2 has been reconfigured to four pickleball courts, complete with permanent nets.

Grand opening festivities begin at 9 a.m. Vendors of pickleball equipment, as well as other products and services, will be onsite during the day, which concludes at 2 p.m.

Four pickeball pros will be on hand to compete in exhibition matches. Clinics and open pickleball play will also take place. Refreshments, prizes, and giveaways will be available. Attendance is free. Those attending are encouraged to bring their own paddles; however, a number of loaner paddles will also be available.

Pickleball is becoming a national obsession. Courts are identical to badminton, with a special net, paddles and whiffle-style ball.

The Loma Linda Pickleball Club, founded in July 2016 by Ernie Medina Jr., DrPH, assistant professor in LLU School of Public Health, with just eight participants, has now grown to 200-plus members of all ages and abilities.

For more information, visit drayson.llu.edu and select the “Pickleball” tab.

]]>
Thu, 21 Sep 2017 10:44:31 -0700
4264:31939 <![CDATA[Fall 2017 chapels to focus on listening]]> By Heather Reifsnyder The fall season for University@Worship at Loma Linda University will kick off Wednesday, Sept. 27, with chapels hosted by each individual school at various locations (check with the respective school’s dean’s office).

The chapel schedule for the remainder of fall quarter will be as follows. All services take place Wednesdays from 11–11:50 a.m. at Loma Linda University Church.

One and all are invited to attend the services. 

]]>
Thu, 21 Sep 2017 10:41:42 -0700
4264:31936 <![CDATA[Coming to Contempt — a devotional]]> By Carla Gober-Park I Samuel 2:12-17 — Eli’s Wicked Sons

Sometimes I wonder what people will say of me once my life is over. Did I live well enough? Kind enough? Will they say anything at all? Most of us want to leave a good legacy. One of the most jarring sentences in scripture is this one: “The sons of Eli were worthless men” (I Samuel 2:12). Another version suggests they were “scoundrels.”

That is not the legacy most would want, and yet I doubt these men cared. The text states, “They had no regard for the Lord” (verse 12) and they “treated the offering of the Lord with contempt” (verse 17). They wanted the best part of the meat, and they didn’t care what the customs were or what God thought. How do people reach this level of disregard for everything but themselves?

Contempt means more than to dislike something; contempt is tinged with disgust and disdain, and directed toward someone one thinks of lesser value. So, in order to feel contempt for others, we have to lower them in our own eyes. We have to set ourselves up as of greater value, more powerful and more worthy of being heard.

No wonder John Gottman lists contempt as one of the prime indicators that a marriage will fail. If you watch a couple closely, you can see the signs within minutes — eyes rolling, sarcastic comments — “little” signs that empathy has waned, criticism is taking over and there is little regard for the other.

Contempt is a place of rejection and hopelessness. It is also a place of power and pseudo worth. In this place of contempt, we listen in order to be right and to place ourselves above another. Scripture uses harsh words for this: “The sin of the young men was very great in the eyes of the Lord” (I Samuel 12:17). The sin is great because people are so valuable to God and when we cease to treat them as valuable, we fail at the greatest point.

Disregard of others leads us to this place of contempt. Listening to understand will lead us out. But, in order to understand, we must quiet our own fears and anxieties, our own need to be heard. Then we can listen — to the words, the sounds, the heart of the other person. What … are … they … trying … to … say?

When we listen, really listen, the strangest thing happens (that is not strange at all): we begin to empathize and understand. And in that moment of empathizing and understanding, we experience the value of the other and what it means to be partners with God.

—Carla Gober-Park, PhD, is assistant vice president for spiritual life and mission at Loma Linda University Health and director of Loma Linda University Center for Spiritual Life and Wholeness.

 

]]>
Thu, 21 Sep 2017 10:11:05 -0700
4264:31880 <![CDATA[New Beginnings — a devotional]]> By Carl Ricketts Jr. It is a time when hope is abounding and when dreams are limitless. A time when we are reminded of what we used to be, where we come from, what we have become, what is happening in our world and the possibilities that this package of newness brings to it.

This time is the time of new birth.

A time when the power of God’s creative hand touches the canvas of our lives and the beauty of the familial gallery is enriched. A time when prayers — silent hopes and external cries — have created a harmony so stirring; the symphony resonates to the ear of God, touching the heart of God.

This time is the time of new birth.                       

I can recall standing in my prayer closet asking God for what was on my heart. We were about to have our first child, and my wife and I wanted to have a pre-ultrasound technology experience — to not know the sex of our child. Filled with new parent anxiety, in my silent prayer to God, I asked, “Lord if you give me a girl, could you please give me boys first, to help care for her?”

I sincerely asked the Lord, but was I expecting His response?

Our first two children were boys and as far as we were concerned, there would be no more children. We gave up the crib, gave up the bassinette, and gave up the toys, never to hear Brahms’ Lullaby again.

Then a few years later the ultrasound tech told me … ”It’s a girl!” I immediately recalled my time in the prayer closet, five years ago, and began shedding tears.  

I asked God, but I was not expecting a response.

1 Samuel 1:20 says, “…Hannah had conceived and given birth to a son. She named him Samuel, explaining, ‘I asked God for him.’”

Hannah appears to be in amazement, because when she was unable to have a child, when she poured out her soul before the Lord year after year, when her face was sad, it was God who knew her situation, it was God who heard her plea, and it was God who saw her unhappiness. Now in her joy, she declares through her son’s name the identity of the one who made this new birth possible, Shemuel, meaning name of God. It was God’s intent to use Samuel to deliver His people.

We experience times when we don’t really believe the desires of our heart are attainable. You call out, whisper, or even mumble to God, yet you feel, “my request is just one of many.” Know that God is listening. And when God does answer — it could be today, it could be tomorrow, five years down the road, or even after a year-after-year turbulent experience — the question will be, “Are you listening?”

When God answers your prayer, will you be expecting His response? When God answers your prayer, will you be ready to give Him the credit for His response? When God answers your prayer, will you be ready to honor God by giving Him lordship over the very thing you received?

Don’t be caught off guard because your perception of your request signals a flat line. God is working out His purposes through your life. God desires to lavish you with His grace. Listen to the signs of life. God is waiting to give you new birth.

—Carl Ricketts Jr., MDiv, is director of Chaplain Services for Loma Linda University Medical Center.

 

]]>
Thu, 14 Sep 2017 09:24:41 -0700
4264:31881 <![CDATA[New Double Helix sculpture is gift from former patient]]> By Nancy Yuen A new sculpture in front of Centennial Complex at Loma Linda University Health captures the spiral elegance of the double helix, strands of nucleic acids also known as DNA.

The Double Helix holds special meaning for faculty, students and staff at Loma Linda University Health — a health sciences institution — as DNA controls all the workings of the body and allows the individuality among people.

A unique collaboration between a donor, artist and builder resulted in the 20-foot-tall art installation. The trio — all residents of Europe — shared their stories during a dedication event and ribbon cutting at Centennial Complex on Sept. 7.

Terry Swenson, DMin, campus chaplain at Loma Linda University, captured the significance of the sculpture in a prayer of dedication: “Lord, thank You for reminding us that science is art, and art is science.”

Jürgen Friedrich was inspired to fund the sculpture after receiving proton therapy at Loma Linda University Health, he said. Friedrich founded Esprit's European operations in 1976 and was appointed a non-executive director for the company a year later. He is now retired and lives in Switzerland.

“Loma Linda changed my life, and I wanted to find a way to show my gratitude,” Friedrich told a gathering of administrators, deans of the university’s schools, and physicians and staff from the James M. Slater, MD Proton Treatment and Research Center.

During his treatment, Friedrich learned that Seventh-day Adventists live remarkably long, healthy lives. He was inspired to give up drinking a year and a half ago after discovering that Adventists advise abstaining from drinking alcohol, he said.

His experience at Loma Linda University Health also changed him spiritually. “I now pray in the morning, at lunch and in the evening,” he said.

Paffard Keatinge-Clay created The Double Helix sculpture at Friedrich’s urging. Friedrich calls Keatinge-Clay, a renowned architect and artist who trained with Frank Lloyd-Wright, “my hero.”

Jürgen Polenz of Polenz Metall Design Manufaktur in Germany oversaw the fabrication and installation of the five-ton sculpture. Its 130 pieces are held together by 1,020 screws, none of them visible. Watch a video of the work that took place at Polenz Metall.

]]>
Thu, 14 Sep 2017 09:26:13 -0700
4264:31888 <![CDATA[Radiothon and auction benefiting LLU Children's Hospital Sept. 15]]> By Briana Pastorino Inland Empire radio stations the Mix 101.3 and Hot 103.9 are dedicating the airwaves to Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital on Friday, Sept. 15, 6 a.m. to 7 p.m., with a radiothon and online auction. Listeners can tune in on the radio or stream online at 1013themix.com or hot1039.com throughout the day to make a pledge or participate in a silent auction.

Each $100 donation will sponsor a cuddly monkey or fox plush that will go into the arms of a child at LLU Children’s Hospital. 

Both stations will be broadcasting live — The Mix at 1909 Restaurant in Temecula and Hot 103.9 FM at Punch Bowl Social in Rancho Cucamonga. Both restaurants will be donating 10 percent of proceeds during the radiothon to Children’s Hospital. 

Funds raised during the radiothon and auction will support Vision 2020 – The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow.

Inspirational patient testimonies will be shared throughout the day as well as updates on Vision 2020 and the construction of the new hospital tower.

Kim Martinez, vice president/general manager of All Pro Broadcasting Southern California, said the stations are honored to participate and contribute to Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital fundraising efforts.

“Our entire staff is very passionate and enthusiastic about this worthy cause,” she said. “If we can help even one precious child, we shall hold our heads up high and embrace the moment.” 

]]>
Thu, 14 Sep 2017 10:57:44 -0700
4264:31883 <![CDATA[School of Religion offers fall classes open to employees and laypersons]]> By Heather Reifsnyder Full-time, benefit-eligible employees have the opportunity to take non-degree courses for free at the School of Religion, using their tuition benefit from Loma Linda University Health.

The School of Religion is offering 11 courses this fall that may be of interest to laypersons.

“Our School of Religion exists to serve employees and the wider community as well as students,” said Jon Paulien, PhD, dean.

All 11 classes take place no earlier than 5 p.m., or online, or by arrangement.

“Courses such as these offered this fall address topics germane to all who have a faith life,” Paulien said. “In my online course about biblical interpretation, for example, we will explore both how the understand the Bible more deeply and in the process learn how the Bible connects people with God. This is probably my favorite class and I am excited we can now offer it online.”

Non-degree religion courses

Fall classes begin the week of Sept. 25 for these non-degree religion courses.

            • Bioethics and society (online)
            • Explorers of the moral life (Tuesdays 6–8:50 p.m.)
            • Biblical ethics (Thursdays 5:30–8:20 p.m.)
            • Pastoral and professional formation (Thursdays 6–8:50 p.m.)
            • Crisis care and counseling (Wednesdays 5–7 p.m.)
            • Wholeness and health (online)
            • Religion and health care leadership: current trends (Mondays 5:30–9:20 p.m.)
            • Biblical hermeneutics (i.e. interpretation) (online)
            • Religion and society I (Thursdays 6–8:50 p.m.)
            • Church history (Thursdays 5:30–8:20 p.m.
            • Philosophy of religion (Thursdays 5:30–8:20 p.m.)

Additional courses open to non-degree students will be offered in winter and spring quarters of 2018.

Steps for employees to enroll

Interested individuals can learn more or begin the registration process by calling Nelky Rodriquez at 909-651-5849 or emailing nrodriguez01@llu.edu. The downloadable form below should be filled out by those who plan to register. 

The tuition aid available to full-time benefit-eligible employees of Loma Linda University Health (all entities) reimburses up to eight units per year of college/university courses at a rate equal to the per-unit tuition cost at LLU. Employees who use the benefit to take classes at LLU may ask for a tuition waiver application from student finance; Loma Linda will then pay the school directly. 

About LLU School of Religion

Loma Linda University’s School of Religion has been described by President Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, as “the university school” because it teaches classes to every student who receives an LLU degree.

The school also offers three master’s degree programs and its doctoral program, the DSc in Religion and Health — the only such degree offered in the United States. Many LLU students choose a dual-degree option, pairing a master’s program in bioethics with their degree from another school on campus.

]]>
Thu, 14 Sep 2017 09:34:04 -0700
4264:31884 <![CDATA[Loma Linda University Health to move to cloud service]]> As part of Loma Linda’s Integrated Financial Transformation (LLIFT) project, Loma Linda University Health will implement a cloud financial and supply chain (purchasing) service in early 2018. 

Departments will be able to eliminate paper and do the following completely online:

  • Browse an online catalog to order products,
  • Submit requisitions online to create a purchase order (no more paper requisitions),
  • Approve requisitions online (from either their computer or smart device),
  • Use electronic dashboards to get status updates on the progress of an order.

During this transformation, both Loma Linda University Health’s financial and supply chain services will be transitioned to a shared services model. This will help to streamline business processes, bringing most Loma Linda entities into one single, unified technology platform, and deliver better customer service to internal clients.

For the first time in the organization’s history, financial transactions will be captured within one standard set of books. Real-time data, available through the LLIFT solution, will allow users to perform self-service inquiries into finance and supply chain transactions. For example, it will be possible to track how much of an item has been used, and initiate a reorder of that product in a timely manner. Clinical teams will have the products they need, when they need it, enabling them to optimize their par (inventory) levels.

Learn more about LLIFT

Questions about LLIFT can be emailed to LLIFT@llu.edu or Rani Nagalingam at rnagalingam@llu.edu.

Visit the LLIFT on One Portal for more information and FAQs.  

“We look forward to bringing you additional updates as we prepare for our upcoming go-live,” said Rani Nagalingam, LLIFT program director. “Thank you for your continued support of this important transformation initiative.”

]]>
Thu, 14 Sep 2017 09:50:32 -0700
4264:31886 <![CDATA[ Third — and final — deadline extension for Wholeness Health Plan]]> Sept. 27 is the last-chance deadline; make your screening appointment now ]]> Employees have only 13 days left — until Wednesday, Sept. 27 — to complete the Wholeness Health Plan requirements. (This deadline applies to employees and their covered spouses of all entities except LLU, who will go through this process next year, and LLU Medical Center – Murrieta, which has a separate health plan with its own requirements, also due soon.)

The Department of Risk Management urges:

If you currently have a biometric screening appointment, it is important to make sure you attend this appointment.

Screening appointments are currently full, but a few more spaces will shortly be added to Wednesday, Sept. 27, between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m.

Please be aware that our biometric screening scheduler works on a first-come-first-serve basis, and it is important for you to make your appointment as soon as possible because appointment availability is not guaranteed.

All of the A-B-C requirements must be completed by Sept. 27. Therefore, if you have not

1.  Completed your Health Risk Assessment and created a MyChart account,

2.  Completed your biometric screening, and

3.  Completed all care management deadlines prior to Sept. 1, 2017, as you were instructed,

then today would be a great time to start completing these requirements.

Employees and their covered spouses who want to remain in the Wholeness Health Plan without a surcharge, or sign up for the first time, must complete the A-B-C requirements by Sept. 27.  This plan offers the most benefits for the lowest cost.  

To complete the Health Risk Assessment, create a MyChart account, and schedule a biometric screening appointment, visit myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole/planrequirements.

If you have any questions, please call the Department of Risk Management at 909-651-4010.

]]>
Thu, 14 Sep 2017 10:24:27 -0700
4264:31885 <![CDATA[Required compliance course 'Spotting Phishing Emails: Don't Take the Bait']]> By DonaJayne Potts Loma Linda University Health has implemented cyber defense technical controls to protect the organization and its workforce from the increasing number of cyber-attacks targeting the health care industry.

In order to ensure that the Loma Linda University Health workforce understands the signs of phishing, a new training course has been developed, as employees, students and volunteers continue to be the first-line of defense against cyber-attacks. 

“Spotting Phishing Emails” is an online, 10-minute course where participants will be provided with instructions on how to quickly spot and report suspicious emails they receive at work, home or on their personal devices. Users will also learn practical ways to prevent becoming a victim of phishing as well as how to protect personal information from scammers. 

An email message from “OWL Portal” containing the link to the course has been sent to employees, students and volunteers of all entities. The training course is mandatory and must be completed by Oct. 31, 2017.

For more information, please contact the Office of Corporate Compliance at 909-651-4200, or to report suspicious emails, please send the suspicious email as an attachment to emailabuse@llu.edu.

What is phishing?

Phishing is a type of fraud in which a hacker attempts to gather personal information by impersonating a legitimate source or by sending users to a malicious web site. Hackers try to obtain any information that could help them pose as someone else, usually to steal money or intellectual property. This is done either through the surreptitious installation of malware, impersonating a legitimate site and stealing login credentials, or simply via email communication.

]]>
Thu, 14 Sep 2017 09:57:01 -0700
4264:31751 <![CDATA[Don't Lose Hope]]> By Randy Roberts Today we begin a new series of devotionals for the News of the Week focused on the theme “Listen.” While there are many things vying for our time and attention, this essential life skill is indispensable for each of us who work for Loma Linda University Health. What are the emotions that come to mind when you think no one is listening to you? What happens when it appears that God isn’t listening? We will spend this year learning from the experiences of several individuals in scripture who learned to develop this skill.

—Spiritual Care Team                                          

I suppose each of us has an unrealized hope. We know the experience of longing for something and yet never having it come true. One person longs for someone special to love; another longs for a healthier marriage; and still another longs for escape from a situation that has become a grinding burden. For those who are believers, this longing has become a focal point of their prayer life. The words, “God, please …” are now the hallmark of their prayer life. Yet still, their desire has not been satisfied.

Does that describe you today? If it does, you are not alone. There was a woman named Hannah who lived in a time just before three key figures in the history of Israel appeared on the scene: Samuel the prophet, and the kings Saul and David. Hannah had an unrealized hope. In fact, it was more than a hope — it was a yearning so deep that it was affecting her whole life.

True to the mores of her day and time, her husband, Elkanah, had two wives. And also true to the mores of her time, a woman without children had cause to feel deep shame. Hannah had no children, while her rival seemed to have a child a year. And she took pleasure in rubbing salt into Hannah’s raw wound. The Bible records it this way: “… her rival kept provoking her in order to irritate her. This went on year after year. Whenever Hannah went up to the house of the Lord, her rival provoked her till she wept and would not eat” (1 Samuel 1:6–7).

So Hannah turned to God in prayer. “Please …”

I suppose any person who claims faith in God has known the experience of unanswered prayer. They know the experience of bringing a request — maybe a deep, heartfelt request — to God in prayer and yet never seeing the fulfillment of that desire. Certainly, in a health care context such as ours, most of us have witnessed someone pray and pray and then pray yet again for healing, and yet come to the end of their journey without the desired answer.

Remarkably, however, Hannah’s prayer was answered. Here’s what took place: while on a journey to the Temple in Jerusalem, she was engaged in such emotional prayer, pleading with God for a son, that Eli the high priest thought she was drunk. “Put your wine aside,” he said to her. 

To which she replied: “I am not drinking; I’m praying.” And then the whole sad saga tumbled out.

And the Bible says that “Eli answered, ‘Go in peace, and may the God of Israel grant you what you have asked of Him’” (1 Samuel 1:17). Not too long thereafter, Samuel — who would become one of the most famous prophets of Israel — was born to her. 

The take home message? Don’t give up hope. Don’t give up prayer. In fact, just don’t give up. Because God is still listening, and prayers are still answered, and hope still gets fulfilled.

—Randy Roberts, DMin, is vice president for spiritual life and mission at Loma Linda University Health.

]]>
Thu, 07 Sep 2017 09:26:14 -0700
4264:31752 <![CDATA[Open house at Diabetes Treatment Center offers free perks]]> By Heather Reifsnyder The Diabetes Treatment Center at Loma Linda University Health welcomes the campus to an open house Thursday, Sept. 14, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Guests will be offered free health screenings and massage, as well as refreshments, gifts and more.

The center is recognized by the American Diabetes Association for the high quality of diabetes education it provides to people with this complex disease. It offers numerous classes in English and Spanish for helping diabetics and pre-diabetics with various aspects of managing their health.

Other services include insulin management, a support group and glucose monitoring.

The Diabetes Treatment Center is located at 11285 Mountain View Avenue, Suite 40, in Loma Linda. For more information, call (909) 558-3022, email dtc@llu.edu or visit lomalindadiabetes.org.

]]>
Thu, 07 Sep 2017 09:28:45 -0700
4264:31756 <![CDATA[New 'I Am' series debuts as collection adds more locations ]]> By Heather Reifsnyder Strong. Grateful. Brave. Joyful. A Fighter.

The “I Am” portrait series found in several campus locations features photos of patients and employees, each one with a descriptive word or phrase following “I Am” that speaks to an aspect of their story. The series is designed to provide hope and encouragement to patients, visitors, employees and students.

Loma Linda University Health debuted 65 new portraits in August during two receptions for the photo subjects and their families. The new series features 17 Children’s Hospital patients, 22 adult patients and 26 employees (16 of whom were also patients). As a thank-you gift, the subjects were each given a framed copy of their portrait and a USB drive with additional shots from their photo sessions.

The new “I Am” portraits are displayed in these locations:

• 27 are in the Medical Center first floor main hallway.

• Three are at Surgical Hospital.

• Seven are at East Campus.

• 28 are in LLUH 101 Building.

Twins Matthew and Callia Castleberry, shown above, exemplify the type of moving story behind each of the new portraits.

A mother’s faith — a sister’s strength — a friend’s gift

At the second trimester of her pregnancy, Angelina and her husband, Matthew Sr., learned that Matthew had a condition called posterior urethral valves, which causes bladder and kidney damage.

Referred to Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital, the couple was given the bad news that baby Matthew was unlikely to survive the pregnancy, and in utero treatment to improve his odds could threaten Callia’s life, too.

Angelina felt an instant and obstinate faith in God that both her children would make it. She proclaimed that someday her twins would be featured in the “I Am” portraits on the hospital walls, in which she found hope and solace.

Children’s Hospital physicians were able to perform prenatal bladder procedures on Matthew that improved his chances. Callia helped, too, by sharing her amniotic fluid via small slits doctors cut in their sacs to connect them. Born at 31 weeks of gestation on July 1, 2014, via emergency C-section, Callia spent nine weeks in the neonatal ICU.

Matthew was there for five months, and he has been on dialysis his whole life. Until now.

He received a kidney transplant July 31 thanks to living donor Dep. Alicia Lopez, a former coworker of Mathew’s mother from the Palm Desert station of Riverside County Sheriff’s Department. Lopez secretly underwent about five months of compatibility testing to see if she was a match for Matthew. When the answer came back yes, she called Angelina, who collapsed to the floor at the good news.

Angelina returned the good news when she came to Lopez’s post-op recovery room and shared that the new kidney was already working beautifully in Matthew.

“Thank God,” responded Lopez. Her biggest fear was not giving up one of her kidneys but that Matthew would undergo the trauma of surgery and then have to face yet another one if the transplant failed to take. Now, Lopez wants to inspire others to consider organ donation. “Out of all of this, I just want people to know they can donate. It doesn’t take a superhero to donate.”

‘I Am Fearfully and Wonderfully Made’

Angelina Castleberry was tearful upon seeing her twins’ portrait hanging at Loma Linda University Health last month — but not surprised. She remembers predicting it on the day of her first appointment at LLU Children’s Hospital.

“The twins are going to make an impact on this world,” she says today. “I know it.”

The first “I Am” series portraits debuted in 2011 in the Medical Center, and the second in 2014. Most of those are still viewable at various points around campus. Additionally, the Children’s Hospital has its own “I Am” series featuring pediatric patients.

           

 

]]>
Thu, 07 Sep 2017 09:38:16 -0700
4264:31754 <![CDATA[Accreditation process focus of 2017 annual Faculty Colloquium]]> By Ronald Carter The 2017 annual Faculty Colloquium takes place in the Centennial Complex on Thursday, Sept. 21, at 1 p.m. There are several significant components to the schedule this year that make this day one that demands the attention of all Loma Linda University faculty, deans and administrators.

The afternoon begins with a focus on Loma Linda University’s WASC Senior College and University Commission Reaffirmation (WSCUC), a process that began in 2011 and is scheduled to be completed in 2020. With just over two years remaining, this is the time that our efforts must be more intense and more focused.

We are privileged to have Christopher Oberg, PhD, WSCUC vice president/COO, join us for this year’s Colloquium. In a unique segment, Dr. Oberg will give our entire faculty the same type of instruction WSCUC site visit teams receive; this is an opportunity that no other university has had. Every faculty member has a role to play in the data collection phase of our accreditation journey. This meaningful presentation will help identify the types of data and reports that will be of most value to us moving forward.

Several of the university’s schools and degree programs have successfully completed their professional accreditation processes. We’ve asked Lynda Daniel-Underwood, associate dean for program development and evaluation at the School of Medicine, to share lessons learned and helpful tips from the School of Medicine’s highly successful 2016 accreditation effort.

It’s also important to remember that accreditation is never a guaranteed result. There have been a few examples of unsuccessful accreditation efforts on our campus, and we will examine what might have gone wrong in some of those situations.

The latter half of the afternoon looks at activities on campus that contribute to the growing quality of scholarship. In particular, DP Harris, PhD, chief information officer, and the LLU Information Systems team will demonstrate changes in LLU’s educational technology, and will present highlights of the partnership between the School of Nursing and the iDesign team.

The Colloquium’s evening session features Bill Strickland Jr., president and CEO of the Manchester Bidwell Corporation in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. MBC houses job training and community arts programs that give youth and adults opportunities and tools to build better futures for themselves.

Mr. Strickland’s inspirational presentation, “Make the Impossible Possible,” promises to teach us how to build on our passions and strengths, dream bigger and set the bar higher, achieve meaningful success, and inspire the lives of others. A MacArthur “Genius” Award winner, Mr. Strickland served on President Obama’s White House Council for Community Solutions, and as a presidential appointee on the National Endowment for the Arts.

Additional details and information about Colloquium are forthcoming. Come prepared to learn and be inspired as we begin our 2017-18 academic year. 

—Ronald Carter, PhD, is provost of Loma Linda University.

]]>
Thu, 07 Sep 2017 09:33:51 -0700
4264:31745 <![CDATA[Notes from the President — Combating hate in America]]> Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   September 2017
Combating hate in America

“Richard

Working alongside others with cultural and economic differences helps us serve more effectively

 

“Hate in America” is how Time magazine’s cover labels it. Other publications have opined in equally categorical ways about the recent tragic events in Charlottesville. What is going on? Where did this all come from? Is it new, or just a “coming out” of long pent up feelings? Whatever the cause, it is ugly and embarrassing for America.

Jon Meacham’s thoughtful article in Time traces the long history of racial divides in this country and leads one to conclude that we have never really gotten over the legacy of slavery, of animosity bred by cultural and genetic differences among us.

I am particularly concerned when this behavior seems to have Christian overtones, of identification with certain religious viewpoints or ideologies. Really? There can be no more clear evidence that our God views us all as one people, equally fallen and equally loved by Him. The old saying “The ground is level at the foot of the cross” certainly bears on this topic.

Probably more important than dissecting the past is addressing the future. What can we proactively do to move beyond both conscious and unconscious biases? Perhaps even more fundamental is examining our own feelings, our own view of the world and those around us. Can we honestly say that we don’t harbor perspectives that impact our own attitudes? And as custodians of our own time and space, what are we doing to purposefully move into a more inclusive view of others?

A faculty member recently shared with me an article from the Harvard Business Review (HBR) that documents how common strategies of addressing diversity issues have not worked. For the past 50 years, organizations have developed “affinity groups” or “employee resource groups” to try and encourage their managers and executives to be more inclusive and sensitive to various minority groups, whether racial, gender-based or others. But the results have been dismissal. As one article — “Deloitte’s Radical Attempt to Reframe Diversity” — so powerfully puts it, “Why tell the out-groups they have to figure out how to fit in, instead of teaching the in-groups how to reach out?”

This is exactly why Loma Linda University Health has moved to a model where we all own this issue, rather than expect a representative of any particular race or culture to champion their own cause. Our Diversity Council is seeking new ways to make progress on acceptance and inclusiveness across campus.

The HBR article tells a story from World War II that documents this issue well. The U.S. Army was still segregated at that time, with only Whites allowed to serve in combat roles. When high casualties left General Dwight Eisenhower understaffed, he asked for Black volunteers to serve in combat duty. Later surveys showed that Whites whose companies had been joined by Black platoons showed dramatically greater willingness to serve alongside Blacks. They came to see each other as soldiers first, as equals pushing toward a common goal.

For me, this is why the service motif is so powerful as an educator. When I can work alongside other people, I begin to understand and accept their worldview. I come to see that what I may have thought was a limitation may be their strength. What I may have seen as my advantage may not be of much value in their world.

Father Greg Boyle, founder of the gang-member intervention non-profit organization Homeboy Industries in Los Angeles, has a great quote: “Here is what we seek: A compassion that can stand in awe at what the poor have to carry, rather than stand in judgment at how they carry it.” Likewise, when Loma Linda University sends students and faculty into San Bernardino or around the world, we are, in fact, providing teachable moments for ourselves that can lead to new understandings and perspectives on the reasons behind the differences we see.

One of my favorite drives in all my travels is the 30-minute to two-hour drive from the airport in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, to our little hospital across town. Going from a “comfortable” airline seat to the crowding, noise, garbage, smells, potholes, traffic, and the life of this bustling city quickly anchors me once again in the realities of this world. As we honk our way past the crowded open market, by roadside vendors and over plugged waterways, I have often asked myself, “Where would I start if I was mayor of Port-au-Prince? How would I bring about change without damaging the resilience and joy that these people manage every day?” I quickly conclude that my solutions would probably be counterproductive, though perhaps satisfying to me. Only by listening and understanding could one come up with a strategy for lasting change.

In this Notes, I have purposefully conflated the American challenge with the world’s struggles because I see them as all related. International exposures bring subtle American biases into stark relief. It is why “mission trips” are more for the traveler than those to be “served” as we try to decipher ourselves. And it is why Loma Linda University Health puts such an emphasis on working across cultural and economic boundaries in our quest to understand, accept, and serve effectively.

Perhaps it is time we examine ourselves and realize that overcoming our biases is more than an exercise in guilt mitigation. Our efforts to embrace others must be driven by a conviction that this is what God wants us to do.

“Richard

 

 

 

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

 

Vision 2020: The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow 

]]>
Wed, 06 Sep 2017 16:03:09 -0700
4264:31683 <![CDATA[Seeking volunteers for A Walk to Remember]]> By Heather Reifsnyder More than 150 volunteers are needed for the 12th annual “A Walk to Remember” event Sunday, Oct. 22, held by Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital.

A Walk to Remember is a memorial walk and service held across the nation each October in honor of National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. LLU Children’s Hospital has participated since 2005.

The event offers individuals support to navigate through the difficult tragedy of losing a baby (pregnancy loss, stillbirth and infant loss of any kind).

The year’s event will take place Oct. 22 at Loma Linda University Church at 3:30 p.m. until about 5:30 p.m. 

There are four volunteer shifts available: 

• 12:30–4:00 p.m.
• 1:30–4:30 p.m.
• 3:30–6:30 p.m.
• 5:00–8:00 p.m.

Learn more or register to volunteer for A Walk to Remember. For additional questions, please contact Lindsay Daguerressar at 909-558-8022. 

]]>
Thu, 31 Aug 2017 10:22:23 -0700
4264:31679 <![CDATA[Honoring Each Other — a devotional]]> By Terry Swenson “Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other.”Romans 12:10

We as chaplains have spent almost a year through these devotionals reflecting on what it means to be an organization that is connected to one another. As we prepare to transition to a new focus, my thoughts lead me to thinking of when I have seen this done well.

I love to see people honored. Oh, not the individuals that strive for and thrive on being honored. No, the ones I love to see being honored are those that least expect, but greatly deserve it.

Before becoming a campus chaplain of Loma Linda University, I worked for many years as a pastor of local churches. In my years at one church, I watched a man — he wasn’t a flashy person and didn’t seek attention, position or acclaim. He loved his church and the members of his church family. He loved serving Jesus. Whenever there was a need for work to be done on the physical plant of the church, he was always there — the first to arrive and last to leave. Whenever someone needed help, he was there. When there was a financial need, he chipped in with what he could, never expecting adulation. He simply loved people and wanted to be helpful.

One day, we set up a surprise event in his honor. The truth was that if we had told him that we wanted to celebrate and honor him, he would have never showed up. At the event, people shared their stories about him and all that he had done. They thanked him and honored him. He was stunned. Emotion ran deep in the room. He couldn’t understand what all of the fuss was about. In his eyes, he hadn’t done anything special or out of the ordinary. He just lived a life the way he thought Jesus wanted him to.

That man and that night are special to my heart. Our church family got it right that time. We showed our love with genuine affection and delighted in honoring this dear man in our midst.

Have you ever been honored by someone? Did you feel blessed, transformed and cared for? Wasn’t there more spring in your step and joy in your heart after the experience?

How transformative would it be for Loma Linda University Health if one of our “many strengths” was that we lovingly honored those around us? Not just the prominent powerhouses, but the everyday “giants” who sometimes go unnoticed, but whose efforts keep us going and empower all of us to do our jobs. How can we show them honor? By saying words of appreciation for what they do, how they do it and who they are; by taking time to pour into them instead of just passing them by.

Loma Linda University Health is famous for research. So let’s all work on a research project. Here’s the protocol: after you are through reading this devotional, honor three people for what they do and how they have blessed your life. Be specific, and don’t just speak in generalities. Then mentally take note of how your words affect them. Share your findings and experiences with at least one other person you work with, or go to class with.

I wonder what our research project will discover. Actually, I already have a pretty good idea.

—Terry Swenson, DMin, is campus chaplain of Loma Linda University. 

]]>
Thu, 31 Aug 2017 10:14:18 -0700
4264:31681 <![CDATA[Bariatrics-to-bodybuilder life coach to speak at support group]]> Heather Reifsnyder Invited guest Lyss Remaly will speak and lead participants through an introductory workout during the Sept. 11 meeting of Loma Linda University Health’s bariatric support group meeting. It will take place at 6 p.m. in the conference room at Tom & Vi Zapara Rehabilitation Pavilion, located between East Campus and LLU Professional Plaza.

Heavily overweight, Remaly made a decision in 2010 to undergo Duodenal Switch surgery, following which she adopted a new lifestyle and began exercising. Six years later, she stepped on stage as a women’s physique competitor and won first place.

From bariatrics to bodybuilding, Remaly built what she calls her FabuLyss FitLife. She now is a speaker and lifestyle coach offering support to others who undergo bariatric surgery.

During the meeting at Loma Linda University Health, Remaly will share her story of her ups and downs and answer questions. She will also lead what she calls a beginner bariatric boot camp, with all fitness levels welcomed, and share with attendees take-home information on chair exercises.

The bariatric program’s monthly support group is free and open to anyone, offering discussion of personal, emotional and medical issues. It meets the second Monday of each month from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. (with the exception of starting at 6 p.m. for this special September meeting).

To learn more, call 909-651-7091 or email bariatrics@llu.edu.

Loma Linda University Health offers various weight-loss surgeries at its Surgical Hospital.

]]>
Thu, 31 Aug 2017 10:18:45 -0700
4264:31685 <![CDATA[Pre-award support offered by Research Affairs for grant opportunities]]> By DonaJayne Potts The Office of Research Affairs at Loma Linda University Health has assembled an experienced pre-award team to serve as a central resource for all research investigators, or potential investigators, throughout the organization.

Pre-award personnel will manage and assist with proposal submissions, planning and development for domestic and international research, training and technical support for electronic research administration.

Support is available for both extramural and intramural grant opportunities.

Proposal submissions

The pre-award team proactively assists in identifying funding opportunities, assists with proposal development, and helps guide the application process, including budget planning and ensuring all submission criteria are met.

Planning and development for domestic and global research

The pre-award team promotes domestic and global collaborative research by helping conceptualize projects and connecting investigators with common interest. Promotional support includes educational training, research exhibitions and poster displays at institutional events.

Electronic Research Administration (eRA) tech support

The pre-award team provides training and technical support for proposal development, tracking modules and sponsor websites.

Learn more/contact the pre-award team

For more information, call 909-558-4589 or ext. 44589, email rapreaward@llu.edu or visit the pre-award webpage.

Additionally, download these PDFs for detailed description of pre-award services and biographies of the pre-award team:

 

]]>
Thu, 31 Aug 2017 10:27:52 -0700
4264:31687 <![CDATA[All month long: Employee Appreciation Food Festival]]> By Heather Reifsnyder As a sign of appreciation to employees, Loma Linda University Health will host food trucks during the month of September at various campus locations.

Each employee will receive two free food items from the 100 percent vegetarian menus.

See the schedule below, or discover more information on the food trucks on One Portal.  

]]>
Thu, 31 Aug 2017 10:30:49 -0700
4264:31689 <![CDATA[Changes to patient and employee parking begin as P4 opens ]]> The P4 Parking Structure, which is dedicated to the Campus Transformation project’s contractor and patient parking, will open Tuesday, Sept. 5, 2017. The P4 garage is located in front of the Faculty Medical Offices.

In preparation, shuttle service between Shepardson Lot and the Faculty Medical Offices will conclude Friday, Sept. 1, at end of shift.

Effective Sept. 5:              

• Patients will begin parking in P4 on levels 1 and 2 and will no longer park in LOT J.

• Employees will begin parking in LOT J and J1 and will no longer park in the Shepardson Lot or residential areas; shuttle services from Shepardson Lot will conclude Sept. 1 at end of shift.

• Employees who have an ADA placard should please register with Parking & Traffic Services to obtain an ADA permit from Loma Linda University Health. This Loma Linda ADA permit authorizes parking access in the P4 parking structure. Contact Parking & Traffic Services for details. The department requests that employees be mindful of patients when utilizing the ADA parking spaces.

• Campus Transformation contractors and Campus Transformation staff will begin parking in P4 levels 5-6 and will no longer have authorization to park in LOT J1.

To avoid citations, Parking & Traffic Services request that you review your parking account.

For questions please contact Parking & Traffic Services at 909-651-3025 or email the department at Parking@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 31 Aug 2017 10:36:05 -0700
4264:31691 <![CDATA[50th anniversary of Medical Center celebrated]]> By Larry Becker A hospital building’s impact on a community and on the world was the theme of a 50th anniversary celebration of the opening of Loma Linda University Medical Center’s current cloverleaf structure. The program took place in the Loma Linda University Church, Sunday, Aug. 27.

“The decision to construct the current hospital building and consolidate medical education on this campus is one of the most significant events in this institution’s history,” said Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health.

In the early 1960s, Loma Linda University faced demand from accrediting bodies that the medical school combine the two years of science education and the two years of clinical education onto one campus. At the time, Loma Linda University had taught science courses on the Loma Linda campus, while the clinical rotations took place in Los Angeles. The Board of Trustees settled on combining the two programs in Loma Linda.

The cloverleaf-shaped towers have become a Loma Linda icon. But as important as the building itself has been, clinical treatment innovations developed at the Medical Center have gone on to change how health care is delivered internationally.

Medical transformations discovered at Loma Linda

Those developments include:

Proton therapy for cancer treatment — The vision of James Slater, MD, led him to find a way to minimize damage to healthy tissue while attacking cancer sites with radiation.

• Coronary angiography — Melvin Judkins, MD, developed the tools and techniques to revolutionize the approach to cardiac medicine. Judkins invented three types of catheters that are now used by coronary care physicians internationally.

Perinatal research — Lawrence Longo, MD, brought together researchers from various medical and scientific disciplines to study hypoxia and its effect on fetal development. Over 40 years, researchers have moved from relatively simple theories to now looking at genetic modification ideas.

• Fetal heart monitoring — Edward Hon, MD, began a residency at White Memorial Medical Center in 1961 after study at Yale University. His work in developing technological solutions to monitoring fetal heart rates has led to dramatic improvements in obstetrical care around the world.

Infant heart transplantation — Leonard Bailey, MD, was searching for transplantation techniques that might be used to save babies lives. Bailey’s research included the concept of cross species transplantation, which was ultimately attempted in the Baby Fae case. With the support of the institution, Bailey transplanted a baboon heart into an infant girl known publicly only as Baby Fae. About a year later, Bailey performed the first infant-to-infant heart transplant.

A new hospital

Loma Linda University Health is now constructing a new medical complex to meet the community’s needs and feature the best in seismic safety.

While the cost difference between the two projects is striking — $22 million for the current building and $1.5 billion for the new construction — the goal for Loma Linda University Medical Center remains the same: to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ.

Vision 2020 – The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow is a comprehensive campaign that was launched to support a transformational vision for education and research, wholeness and clinical care including the new adult hospital and expanded Children’s Hospital construction project.

“We are blessed by the outpouring of support for Vision 2020,” Hart said. “In just a short time we have raised over $267 million toward our $360 million goal.

To view a video of the anniversary program and learn how to get involved with Vision 2020, visit lluhvision2020.org.

]]>
Thu, 31 Aug 2017 10:46:41 -0700
4264:31635 <![CDATA[Mission: Possible — a devotional]]> By Dilys Brooks “May God who gives patience, steadiness, and encouragement help you to live in complete harmony with each other — each with the attitude of Christ toward the other.” –Romans 15:5

One of my favorite TV shows to watch during the summers I spent in New York while still a resident of my island home, Jamaica, was Mission Impossible. In recent years, the show migrated from the small screen to large screen, and we have watched Tom Cruise and company do things that defy imagination.

When I reflect on the appeal of the show, it strikes me that it has to do with the complex tasks and the skilled team assembled to complete the assignment. Despite the odds, challenges and setbacks, the team remained committed to completing the mission.

Our team at Loma Linda University Health — 865 faculty physicians, 15,400 employees, 4,444 students who come from seventy-eight different countries have also accepted a mission. 

We face complicated assignments, work with individuals who have many strengths and encounter obstacles that at times seem impossible to overcome. There are some days when it appears that our tasks are impossible to complete.  

We face staffing challenges and delays in reports, deliveries or payments. At other times, we lose staff members to death, illness or retirement. Sometimes we disagree on the way to complete a task or encounter unhappy clients, patients, students or family members.

There is no director yelling “Cut!” so that we can redo a scene.

How have we been able to do it? How can we continue to do it? It is by embracing our mission and following our Leader.

The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Roman church, pronounces this blessing over them: 

May God who gives patience, steadiness, and encouragement help you to live in complete harmony with each other — each with the attitude of Christ toward the other.

It is God who has called each of us within Loma Linda University Health to participate in His mission to the Inland Empire and the world. It is only through our connection to God and one another that we can successfully fulfill our roles.

Our mission is to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ, our motto “To make man whole.” We have each chosen to support it. It is my hope and prayer that when those hard days come, when it feels like meeting our mission is impossible, that we remember to pray for God’s presence, power and peace to enable us.

—Dilys Brooks, MDiv, is associate campus chaplain of Loma Linda University.

]]>
Thu, 24 Aug 2017 11:42:58 -0700
4264:31633 <![CDATA[Drayson Center badminton player wins two national silvers]]> By Larry Kidder Loma Linda University Drayson Center is home to a dedicated group of badminton aficionados, one of whom is a recent winner of two silver medals in the sport.

James Ho, age 78, recently came home from Birmingham, Alabama, with two silver medals in badminton from the U.S. National Senior Games, held there June 12-17. He medaled in singles and doubles after driving three days from Loma Linda to Birmingham (and three days back).

"I played in the 75-to-79 bracket," Ho said. "I won silver in singles. My usual doubles partner broke his ankle a few weeks before the games and couldn't make the trip, so I met a new partner who had never competed at the Nationals. We also won silver."

Ho has been playing badminton since he was 6 years old. Growing up in Singapore, he was junior champion at age 14. When he was 16, he became national singles champion, and a year later shared the national doubles title with his cousin.

Ho moved with his family to Toronto, Canada, in 1966. Soon after arriving, he was given the opportunity to play the Canadian badminton champion. "I beat him," Ho remembered. 

For 10 years, Ho served as club pro at a private club in Toronto. In 2001, he moved to the United States. A certified badminton teaching pro, he has coached young people for 35 years. More recently, he took over as badminton coach for Loma Linda Academy, helping the team become co-champions in the San Andreas League this past school year.

The U.S. National Senior Games are held every other year. Ho has medaled in badminton singles consistently since 1999.

"Badminton has been my life," he said. "I'm so glad I can still play at Drayson Center with my friends."

]]>
Thu, 24 Aug 2017 11:40:20 -0700
4264:31638 <![CDATA[President to speak on Wellness Live]]> By Esmerelda Guerrero Engaging with your community has been shown to benefit health and well-being. There are many paths to wellness, and volunteering can be one of them.

Loma Linda University’s Living Whole Wellness Program is hosting a free live-streamed presentation on this topic Wednesday, Aug. 30, from 5:30-6 p.m.

Viewers will be able to ask questions and interact live with featured speaker President Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, about the power of community service.

For more information, call 909-651-4007

Viewers who missed last month’s live broadcast on dental health can view it on demand, along with numerous past presentations, in the Wellness Live archive.

]]>
Thu, 24 Aug 2017 11:48:49 -0700
4264:31640 <![CDATA[Making good on a promise]]> By Genesis Gonzalez Former patient Josslyn Tramel arrived at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital earlier this month to make good on a promise more than a year in the making.

With mom and twin siblings by her side, 10-year-old Tramel took her first steps back on the unit floor where her life was saved last year following an electrocution accident in a pool.

Her arrival was met with warm hugs, smiles and balloons as unit 5700 welcomed Tramel back. Janelle Cicero, RN, was by Tramel’s side during her hospital stay and beamed at the sight of her walking on her own. 

“It’s amazing how far Josslyn has come,” Cicero said. “This is truly a blessing to see her after a year.”

Though her ability to walk and even jump on her own was incredible to witness, it was Tramel’s growth spurt that first took Cicero by surprise.

“I’m taller than a 23-year-old,” Tramel exclaimed while standing back-to-back with her former nurse.

Presents all around

The visit brought fun surprises for both Tramel and staff. She handed out homemade thank-you cards to each team member who cared for her during her eight days at the Children’s Hospital. Her mother arrived with a cart full of sandwiches from Panera Bread as a sign of her appreciation.  

“If Josslyn survives this, I promise she will walk through those doors on her own two feet to thank everyone who helped her,” Tramel’s mother, Kim, said. Given Tramel’s poor condition at the time, few people believed the Tramels would ever be able to make good on such a promise. 

Cicero and team had their own bag of goodies to give Tramel and her siblings, Calista and Nate, who also took part in the festivities. They were thrilled to receive new coloring books and crayons. Tramel opened a gift created just for her — a stuffed bunny dressed as a Loma Linda University Health nurse. 

When Tramel pressed on the bunny’s hand, she was overcome by the heartfelt message: “Joss, Loma Linda’s PICU loves you. We’re so happy you’re better.” She held her new friend close to her heart.

But the gifts didn’t end there; Tramel also received a beautiful necklace to complement her cheery disposition. Though overcome with happiness, it was difficult for her to recall the time she was a patient at the Children’s Hospital. Cicero took Tramel to one of the vacant rooms on the floor to try and jog her memory. It was still tough for her to remember, considering she arrived and left in a coma. 

Life lost, life renewed

Josslyn’s mother said she will always remember the two times her daughter had to be revived.

“They never gave up on her,” said her mother, Kim.

Last year on Easter Sunday, Josslyn and her family were enjoying the holiday weekend at their Palm Springs residence. Family and friends were enjoying each other’s company, with most of the partygoers in the pool. What was just another family function took a turn for the worse when those swimming in the pool began to be electrocuted by faulty wiring, including Josslyn.

Her father, Jim Tramel, sprang to her rescue.

Josslyn was immediately transported to the Children’s Hospital pediatric intensive care unit as the fight for her life began. While transported in a helicopter, Kim remained at her daughter’s side offering her support and love. Though fearful for her daughter, it was devastating for Kim to learn 30 minutes prior to arriving at the Children’s Hospital that her husband — Josslyn’s father — had passed away.

“I don’t know if my kid would have survived anywhere else. They held her hand and mine through a very difficult time,” Kim said.

Cared for with love

The staff cared for her daughter not just as another patient, but like family and loved like family. Even her twin siblings were looked after by Cicero and team. “If I had to do something or even step away, I knew Janelle was going to be there,” Kim said.

Tramel was eventually transferred to the University of San Francisco Medical Center pediatric intensive care unit, where she remained until her health improved and then moved into rehabilitation for the remaining three months. The move was to bring her closer to home.

Throughout Tramel’s recovery process, her mother kept in touch with Cicero and the nursing staff at LLU Children’s Hospital.

Coming back on her own two feet

The family was in town for the day after flying in from San Francisco. Tramel and her siblings were excited to soon drive to San Diego for one last summer vacation before school starts Aug. 28.

Tramel will return to school as a healthy, active fifth grader. Her mom said she’s a different kid now because of her experience, but she hasn’t lost her spirit for life, creativity and artwork.

And while the family made good on one of mom’s promises after Tramel pulled through, Josslyn hasn’t forgotten about another one of mom’s promises — a trip to Paris!

 

]]>
Thu, 24 Aug 2017 11:51:41 -0700
4264:31642 <![CDATA[Calling volunteers for free mega-clinic in Phoenix]]> By Heather Reifsnyder The free, traveling mega-clinic ministry Your Best Pathway to Health is once again returning to the Southwest of the United States, giving employees of Loma Linda University Health the chance to volunteer to serve uninsured and underinsured individuals.

Loma Linda University Health is co-sponsoring the event, which will take place in Phoenix from Dec. 25-27. President Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, said he hopes it will be “a major event for Loma Linda.”

Why Christmastime? Lela Lewis, MD, LLU alumna and founder of Your Best Pathway to Health, said Christmas is the day people from all over the world celebrate the gift of life and health eternal.

“What better opportunity to exercise Loma Linda’s motto ‘To make man whole’ than to give people physical, mental and spiritual health — to actually be the physical gift on Christmas?” Lewis said.

The service provided at Pathway clinics exceed the typical health fair: eye care, dental care and even surgery are among the services offered — but only volunteers make this happen.

The goal for the Phoenix event is to treat 10,000 individuals in two and a half days (the 27th is a half day). Approximately 3,500 volunteers are needed.

“I promise it will be a Christmas to remember,” Lewis said.

President Hart encourages individuals from Loma Linda University Health to help staff the event — and both clinical and non-clinical volunteers are needed.

Anyone with a smile and a heartbeat who is 13 or older can volunteer. There will be programming for kids.

Employees are invited to take this survey as soon as possible to indicate their interest level, area of expertise, barriers to going, whether it would be helpful for Loma Linda University Health to assist in coordinating transportation.

Survey link: https://one.lluh.org/vip/General/Upcoming-Events/volunteer-interest

A large number of individuals from Loma Linda volunteered at the 2016 Pathway clinic held in Los Angeles. Read about the experience.

 

]]>
Thu, 24 Aug 2017 11:55:06 -0700
4264:31644 <![CDATA[You talked, we listened]]> In 2016, Human Resource Management implemented several committees to prompt feedback, ideas and recommendations from employees. Meeting several times over the past year, employees have provided excellent feedback on how Loma Linda University Health can improve and continue to enhance the employee experience. 

Over the past year, HR has implemented eight employee suggestions, including food trucks on campus,* online options for purchasing tickets to the All Star Appreciation baseball game, enhanced CEU reimbursement and more.

The committees will continue to meet and discuss ongoing improvement of employee experience, using suggestions voiced from employees, who are the foundation of Loma Linda University Health. 

For updates and changes based on employee feedback, look for announcements with the icon “You talked, we listened … together we value.” 

As an additional opportunity to offer feedback on HR’s service, please complete the survey below by Friday, September 1, 2017.

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/LLUH-HRSurvey

* Food trucks will come to campus throughout September; read about it in next Thursday’s News of the Week.

]]>
Thu, 24 Aug 2017 11:58:12 -0700
4264:31646 <![CDATA[Making a mark: Congressman and Children's Hospital patients sign component of new hospital]]> By Briana Pastorino At the base of a new hospital complex currently under construction at Loma Linda University Health will stand 126 steel pedestals, each weighing approximately 19,000 pounds. 

On Aug. 21, U.S. Rep Pete Aguilar visited the construction site to sign one of the pedestals, along with several junior philanthropists and Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital patients.

“Loma Linda University Health is an absolute treasure,” Aguilar said. “The entire staff is dedicated to protecting patients, and that’s exactly what this new facility will do.”

Joining Aguilar in the signing were a handful of junior philanthropists, including Ulysses Hsu, 9, and Max Hilliard, 10, who each raised money at their own birthday parties to donate to Vision 2020 – The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow in support of the new Children’s Hospital tower.

“I feel very proud that a lot of people have been inspired to do more for Vision 2020,” Hsu said. “We want to help people feel better.”

Hsu is founder of the birthday club at LLU Children’s Hospital, which is just one way to build hope for the community. Kids are encouraged to ask friends and family to make a donation to Vision 2020 in honor of their birthday. 

The steel pedestal is the cornerstone of the earthquake protection system for the hospital. The entire weight of the complex will be carried by these steel pedestals. Sliding bearings will be mounted to the top of the pedestals to isolate the building from the damaging effects of horizontal earthquake shaking.

The holes on the faces of each pedestal will allow for the possibility of future vertical shock absorbers to be installed to isolate the building from vertical earthquake shaking, creating the world’s first seismically isolated hospital building.

Watch a recap of the pedestal signing:

 

Rep. Pete Aguilar and Kids Pedestal Signing from Loma Linda University Health on Vimeo.

]]>
Thu, 24 Aug 2017 12:02:08 -0700
4264:31565 <![CDATA[The Bark and the Bite — a devotional]]> By Kathy McMillan “If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other.” –Galatians 5:15                   

When I was working as an oncology nurse in the Bay Area, one of the physicians at the hospital had a reputation for being gruff. Nurses were a bit afraid to call and report a change in a patient’s condition because he responded abruptly. Those of us who got to know him over time understood that underneath his rough exterior was a heart of gold. He cared deeply for his patients and was terribly distressed when they weren’t doing well.

We sometimes used the familiar explanation about him when talking to new nurses, “His bark is worse than his bite.” 

But the bark is not always worse. I have a dear friend who recently got a new puppy. As puppies tend to do, he loves to chew on anything close by. Unfortunately, the closest thing is often my friend’s forearm and she has hundreds of scars to prove it. This puppy has a bite that is damaging!

Paul, in his letter to the Galatians, was concerned about the way the church members were treating each other. The church was composed of largely of two groups — Jewish and Gentile converts — and they came from vastly different backgrounds. Divisions sometimes arose between them that caused friction and conflict. Paul chose his words carefully; he admonished them not to bite each other.

In other words, he wanted to make sure they weren’t doing anything to cause pain or to sting one another. Then he continued, warning them not to devour each other. The word devour is often used to describe the way wild beasts fight to the death. Paul knew that the quickest way to destroy the spirituality of the church would be to fan the flames of contention.

In an organization as large as Loma Linda University Health, there are diverse opinions and philosophies. You could likely talk to people in the same department and hear vastly different ideas. But the manner in which we disagree must be in a spirit of love. We can show respect for the person with whom we disagree without deriding them as an individual. We can demonstrate tact, kindness and compassion, even when our opinions differ.

In volume four of Testimonies to the Church, Seventh-day Adventist Church co-founder Ellen White writes, “When Christ is in the heart, it will be so softened and subdued by love for God and man that fretting, faultfinding and contention will not exist there” (pg. 610).

It is our daily connection with Jesus that will enable us to love and respect each other, especially when we disagree.

When this is true, we will not have to worry about the bark or the bite. This is my prayer.

—Kathy McMillan is director of Employee Spiritual Care at Loma Linda University Medical Center.

]]>
Thu, 17 Aug 2017 11:24:03 -0700
4264:31567 <![CDATA[World Affairs Council holding event at Centennial Complex Sept. 6]]> Loma Linda University Health is co-sponsoring the Sept. 6 World Affairs Council Inland Southern California event “Dueling Narratives of U.S. Relations with Iran.”         

Trita Parsi, PhD, founder of the National Iranian American Council, will speak on two approaches: supporting Iran’s budding pro-democracy movement versus fighting anti-American Islamic revolutionaries.

The event will be held in the Centennial Complex, room 3111, at 5:30 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 6. 

The deadline to register for the event is noon on Friday, Sept. 1. Admission is free for students and members of the World Affairs Council who preregister, and $15 for non-members with preregistration.

The door price will be $20.

To register, or for more information, visit lluglobal.com or call 909-558-7446.

 

]]>
Thu, 17 Aug 2017 11:31:40 -0700
4264:31568 <![CDATA[Gift Shop at Children's Hospital to relocate]]> By Heather Reifsnyder The Gift Shop at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital will close for business at day’s end on Thursday, Aug. 31. Beginning the next day, Sept. 1, a portion of the items will be moved to the Gift Shop at LLU Medical Center, offering a centralized location.

This move affords Children’s Hospital the opportunity to reevaluate its inventory and budget for gift items, as well as to create a dedicated workspace for the Children’s Hospital Foundation and the Big Hearts for Little Hearts Guilds that support pediatric services and patients. 

Other areas for children’s gifts may also be created in the future.

]]>
Thu, 17 Aug 2017 11:32:44 -0700
4264:31569 <![CDATA[One Portal now accessible off campus]]> By Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Health employees can now access the One Portal intranet from anywhere they have Internet access — home, hotel, hotspot.

Visiting one.lluh.org from any web browser will allow employees to log in with their email user name and password; the public has no access.

Once logged in, employees can view their bookmarked items as usual. However, some content and applications on One Portal can still only be used from on campus. For example, clinical and financial applications or pages may require additional log-in credentials or be unavailable.

This new service allows employees to access important resources whenever or wherever they need it most. 

]]>
Thu, 17 Aug 2017 11:33:49 -0700
4264:31570 <![CDATA[University website goes live with redesign]]> Heather Reifsnyder The Loma Linda University website will be republished today, giving the first look at an organization-wide website redesign improving upon form and function. All Loma Linda University Health webpages will receive the same treatment by year’s end, hence the redesign’s moniker: “Look 17.”

The visual experience at home.llu.edu will offer new eye-appeal that, through deliberate use of color, imagery, text and video in a modular layout, guides readers to the content they most want. This experience also translates to mobile viewing.

All this works together with curated content that highlights the integration of health, science and Christian faith that is the hallmark of a Loma Linda University education. Along with better presentation of key information, the homepage now highlights student testimonials and storytelling.

“Sharing your story invites others into your life,” said Ralph Ambrose, director of web services. “Stories build community, inspire hope, teach, even heal. Look 17 empowers storytellers to convey our unique narratives.”

In addition to this improved on-page experience at home.llu.edu, easy linkage to the most essential and frequently visited LLU webpages is ensured through a new top navigation and a new page footer, leading to information for both internal and external readers.  

The top navigation improvements include access to the four “pillar pages” for Loma Linda University: Education, Research, Campus and Spiritual Life, and Mission and Outreach. These four pages are included in the Look 17 redesign update, featuring freshly revised content.   

The new footer links to LLU’s school sites and key resources, and it now includes an alumni support page and a link to emergency information.

Further details are available in this previous Look 17 story from July in News of the Week. Also see the rollout schedule

]]>
Thu, 17 Aug 2017 11:35:01 -0700
4264:31571 <![CDATA[Wanted: your autograph on a piece of new hospital]]> By Heather Reifsnyder Construction components will begin to rise above ground level in the coming months at the site of the new hospital complex at Loma Linda University Health. A key milestone in the construction is placing the steel pedestals that will support the building and ensure its stability during earthquakes.  

Employees are invited to sign one of these pedestals that will become a visible piece of the new hospital building. They can do so anytime between 7 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 23, and Thursday, Aug. 24.

This process is a way for Loma Linda University Health leaders to acknowledge their appreciation for the important role employees are playing in supporting the Campus Transformation. 

The meeting point for adding signatures is the valet area at the front entrance of LLU Medical Center. Please note that no parking is available there. Employees are encouraged to ride the shuttle service as normally scheduled for the Medical Center front entrance.

Additionally, the following times will be provided on the 23rd and 24th only:

From East Campus to Medical Center:
7 a.m. and 8:30 a.m.

From LLUH 101 Building to Medical Center:
10:15 a.m. and 11:45 a.m.

Call shuttle dispatch at 909-651-3020 for more information. 

]]>
Thu, 17 Aug 2017 11:36:15 -0700
4264:31520 <![CDATA[Loma Linda Lopers club relaunching Aug. 13]]> By Esmerelda Guerrero The Loma Linda Lopers Club returns Aug. 13, offering community support for those looking for motivation to achieve walking, running and fitness goals. 

The first 350 Loma Linda employees and students who sign up for the Lopers Running, Walking, and Fitness Training Clinic or Holiday Classic Race will receive a $20 discount on their fees. 

The Lopers Club is sponsored by the Living Whole Wellness Program, Loma Linda University Health’s employee wellness program, out of a commitment to provide employees and students opportunities to get active with friends and colleagues on campus.

Signups for the Lopers club are now open. Join at www.lopersclub.org or in person, beginning Aug. 13 at Loma Linda University Drayson Center.

]]>
Wed, 09 Aug 2017 16:42:49 -0700
4264:31522 <![CDATA[Overflowing Love — a devotional]]> By Terry Swenson And may the Lord make your love for one another and for all people grow and overflow, just as our love for you overflows.” –1 Thessalonians 3:12

It was one of those childhood battles that, at the time, I was certain would determine the fate of the world.

Actually, it was just another argument between my sister and I. However, it had escalated in intensity and volume to the point where my father heard us while seated elsewhere in the house. Above the fray of battle we heard the voluminous call of our names — all three names — first, middle and last. That’s when you know judgment day has arrived.

We quickly and sheepishly ran to our father. The case was reviewed. I was determined to be the perpetrator of the crime. And, now, I was to receive sentencing. I was stunned by my father’s words. My sentence was threefold: First, I had to apologize. Second, I was to tell her that I loved her. Third, I was to give her a hug!

I hung my head, consigned myself to my fate, apologized, less-than-sincerely told her I loved her, and hugged her. In all honesty, I meant none of it at that moment, but the deed was done and I was free to go my way.

I don’t think that my father’s methodology produced his desired result. Why? Because you can’t make someone love. Making involves commanding and demanding. Love comes as a result of freewill.

When the apostle Paul wrote the words above, what was he thinking? He knew that God never compelled love. In fact, the whole purpose of Jesus coming, living and dying for us is an exclamation point in history proclaiming this fact. Jesus declared this in John 3:16:

For this is how God loved the world: He gave His one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.”  

No, Paul is not saying that God requires a compelled love. The answer to what he is saying is revealed in the last phrase of our text: “…just as our love for you overflows.” How do we love each other? It comes from realizing the love of God. It comes from experiencing this pure and total love in our lives. After being filled to the full, this love overflows from our lives through our hearts and out of our actions and interactions with those we encounter each day.

• Fact #1: You can’t overflow when your heart is empty.

• Fact #2: You have to be open and willing to let God fill you.

• Fact #3: You need times of stillness in your life to be filled.

• Fact #4: God longs to and will fill you if you let Him.

At Loma Linda University Health we have a mission "to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ." We have a motto “To make man whole.“ We proclaim our “Many Strengths. One Mission.”

These are good words. Yet, they will only come to fruition when we, the individuals who uphold them and proclaim them, are filled with the love of God and loving others through the overflow of this love.

Take a moment and check your “gauge.” Where is the needle pointing, to empty or full? All you have to do is receive so you can live and give.

—Terry Swenson, DMin, is chaplain of Loma Linda University.

]]>
Wed, 09 Aug 2017 16:44:18 -0700
4264:31521 <![CDATA[Cancer-fighting cooking demonstration Aug. 16]]> By Esmerelda Guerrero Having a sweet tooth doesn’t mean one has to give up his or her health goals.

A cooking demonstration next week will explore healthy ways to sweeten food. In addition, it will showcase healthy foods with potential cancer fighting benefits. 

Attendees will enjoy samples and leave with take-home recipes.

The free event takes place from 6–7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 16, in the kitchen at Nichol Hall. Seats are limited. Please RSVP by calling ext. 14007.

This event is part of a series of cooking demonstrations offered by the Living Whole Wellness Program and Loma Linda University Cancer Center. 

</div
]]>
Wed, 09 Aug 2017 16:43:24 -0700
4264:31519 <![CDATA[Drayson Center to hold open house for personal training]]> By Larry Kidder A new kind of personal training is taking place at Loma Linda University Drayson Center. In contrast to personal training at some fitness centers, clients receive truly individualized service that’s far more than a supervised workout.                             

Drayson Center is contracting with LB Fitness, owned by Lyn Berlingeri, who is certified by both the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) and American Sports and Fitness (ASF).

On Monday, Aug. 14, Berlingeri will introduce her personal training studio during an open house from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Refreshments will be provided that feature tasty — but healthy — treats. Several drawings for products and services will also take place.

Berlingeri has been training clients at Drayson Center more than half a decade. She sees many of her clients individually but also works with groups. In the near future, she plans to reintroduce the popular “Boot Camp.” Watch drayson.llu.edu for announcements. 

“I evaluate what a client needs, then develop a program to help meet those needs and achieve personal goals,” Berlingeri said. “My number one goal is to help restore my clients to health and balance — body, mind, and spirit.”

 

]]>
Wed, 09 Aug 2017 16:42:13 -0700
4264:31518 <![CDATA[Dine at BJ's today to benefit Children's Hospital]]> By Heather Reifsnyder BJ’s Restaurant in San Bernardino is once again hosting a Tip-a-CHiP fundraiser for Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital, taking place today, Aug. 10.

All day long, the restaurant will donate 20 percent of each party’s bill to Children’s Hospital when patrons bring in the flyer available for download below, or display it on their phone.

Starting at 4 p.m. through 9 p.m., California Highway Patrol officers will serve dinner, with tips collected also going to LLU Children’s Hospital. During those hours, kids get a free root beer float.

]]>
Wed, 09 Aug 2017 16:41:13 -0700
4264:31517 <![CDATA[Next week: All Star Appreciation for Murrieta hospital]]> By Heather Reifsnyder Baseball and bonus prizes await attendees of next week’s Murrieta All Star Appreciation Day at Lake Elsinore Diamond, where the Lake Elsinore Storm will battle the Inland Empire 66ers.

Taking place Wednesday, Aug. 16, at 6 p.m., All Star Appreciation is an event to thank employees and volunteers of Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta. (For all other Loma Linda University Health entities, All Star Appreciation took place Aug. 9 in San Bernardino.)

Each Murrieta employee and volunteer may receive up to six free tickets to Lake Elsinore Storm game by visiting stormbaseball.com/llu.

Opportunity drawings will take place throughout the game, culminating in the giveaway of a Hawaiian vacation package at evening’s end. Other prizes will include an iPad, iRobot vacuum cleaner, Samsung television, NutriBullet and his-and-her bicycle cruisers. 

With the exception of night shift employees*, one must be present to win. A postcard has been mailed to each employee and volunteer. To enter the drawings, place this postcard in a raffle drum at the front entrance before the start of the game. ID badge must be presented.

Parking is free with ID badge. Lake Elsinore Diamond is located at 500 Diamond Dr., Lake Elsinore, CA 92530.

The Lake Elsinore Storm are a minor league affiliate of the San Diego Padres.

* Night shift employees will receive a postcard entry form with instructions on how to enter the drawing.

]]>
Wed, 09 Aug 2017 16:40:20 -0700
4264:31516 <![CDATA[Deadline extended two weeks for Wholeness Health Plan A-B-Cs]]> By Esmerelda Guerrero and Heather Reifsnyder Employees and their covered spouses who have not yet completed the A-B-C requirements for enrollment in the Wholeness Health Plan now have an extra two weeks to do so. The Wholeness Health Plan at Loma Linda University Health offers the most benefits for the best price.

Employees who want to remain in this plan without a surcharge, or sign up for the first time, must complete the A-B-C requirements below by Sept. 15, 2017.

(This deadline applies to employees, and their covered spouses, of all entities except LLU, who will go through this process next year, and LLU Medical Center – Murrieta, which has a separate health plan with its own requirements, also due soon.)

Wholeness Health Plan requirements

A: Assessment and Account—Complete the online Health Risk Assessment and create a MyChart account if you do not already have one.

B: Biometric screening —Complete a biometric screening at one of the many locations on campus.

C: Care management This step only applies to employees or covered spouses who receive an invitation.

Step-by-step

To get started on the requirements, follow these three steps:

One: Visit myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole/planrequirements.

Two: Print out the Quick Guide for “Current Health Plan Members.” This guide contains the instructions and the usernames and passwords needed for the biometric screening and Health Risk Assessment sites.

To ensure a convenient time for the biometric screening, make an appointment as soon as possible. Appointments fill up quickly!

Three: If you received a letter for care management prior to June 1, 2017, you will need to complete the outlined care management activities before Sept. 15, 2017. If you have not received a care management letter, this requirement does not apply.

]]>
Wed, 09 Aug 2017 16:39:42 -0700
4264:31515 <![CDATA[Commuter survey required of employees]]> Compiled by Heather Reifsnyder Round two is here of the annual commuter survey required by the South Coast Air Quality Management District. 

Loma Linda University completed its survey in April, and now it is time for employees of LLU Medical Center, Surgical Hospital, East Campus, Health Care, Children’s Hospital, Shared Services, and LLIECHE to fill out the survey.

Exempt from the requirement are attending physicians, contract workers and employees of the Behavioral Medicine Center.

Employees must report how they commuted to work during the week of July 10-14, 2017: drove alone, carpooled, walked, biked, rode the bus or vanpooled. Employees who worked from home (telecommuted), were sick, or on vacation that week must still complete the survey.

This area is among the smoggiest regions of the United States, and the survey data is used to compute the Loma Linda University Health’s average vehicle ridership (AVR).

“We must improve on last year’s AVR, which was 1.175,” said Patricia Ibarra, employee transportation coordinator at Loma Linda University Health.This can be achieved if we all work together and complete the survey.”

As of the morning of Aug. 7, only 65 percent of required employees had completed the survey, and target is 90 to 100 percent. “Please complete your survey today and encourage your teammates to complete theirs,” Ibarra said.

Departments with a 100 percent response rate will be entered into a drawing, and a person from the winning department will be randomly chosen to receive a 40-inch television. Last year’s winner was Judith Holbeck, technical assistant II in Histocompatibility (pictured above).

Paper surveys and detailed instructions to complete the survey are available by contacting the Rideshare program at rideshare@llu.edu or ext. 53033.

]]>
Wed, 09 Aug 2017 16:38:57 -0700
4264:31514 <![CDATA[Surgical Hospital recognized for quality patient care by NRC Health]]> By Briana Pastorino Loma Linda University Surgical Hospital has been recognized for quality patient care by NRC Health with three 2017 Excellence and Improvement Best Practice Awards.

NRC Health recognized LLU Surgical Hospital and other top performing organizations at the 23rd annual NRC Health Symposium for Patient-Centered Care on Aug. 6 during an awards ceremony in Boston, Massachusetts.

LLU Surgical Hospital was awarded three “Dimension Awards” for:

• Continuity and Transition
• Physical Comfort
• Respect for Patient Preferences

Jonathan Jean-Marie, MHA, vice president/administrator of LLU Surgical Hospital, said that although 426 hospitals were eligible, only 30 hospitals from the United States and Canada received awards at the symposium. A top performer, LLU Surgical Hospital was the only organization to receive more than one award, earning three out of eight patient-centered care categories.

“It is a tremendous honor to be recognized for the amazing care we provide to our patients and their families,” Jean-Marie said. “It highlights our team’s incredible work and commitment to patient-centered care.”

The Excellence Awards recognize hospitals and health systems that have exhibited an exceptional commitment for their dedication to improving the patient experience and for understanding individuals’ complete care journey. These awards recognize elite organizations who have received the highest ratings of overall satisfaction by patients and their families.

“This award exemplifies our efforts to provide the highest quality of care in the safest, most compassionate environment,” said Jennifer McDonald, executive director for patient experience at Loma Linda University Health. “Receiving this award demonstrates how much talent and commitment exists within our walls and our hearts.” 

]]>
Wed, 09 Aug 2017 16:38:19 -0700
4264:31435 <![CDATA[Too Busy to Connect ]]> By Dilys Brooks “… and may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, as we do for you.” –1 Thessalonians 3:12

For almost one year, we have been intentionally focusing on ways to connect with one another across Loma Linda University Health (you may have noticed that the weekly devotionals for the past months have all mediated on Bible verses about how to treat one another).

How has the experience been for you? Have you found it challenging to make time to really get to know your colleagues, co-workers, students, patients or staff? I wonder. Am I the only one who has found it difficult to stay focused on making time for God, myself and others? In reflecting on this goal to stay connected to one another, I have come to realize a few things.

I have learned that, like any good habit, it takes time andpractice to truly stay connected. Whether we are in the corporate, clinical or academic part of the organization, we live in a fast-paced environment! In our efforts to do our jobs, we may miss the opportunities and invitations from God to connect with Him, ourselves and others.

I have also discovered that we are all very busy. (I can see you saying, “Really Dilys?!”) In and of itself this is not necessarily a bad thing. However, we run into difficulties when we don’t create spaces or margins in our lives for renewal. When I learned to acknowledge that I was busy, the next thing was to assess how this helped or hindered me from being a child of God, wife, mother, chaplain, coworker, sister, daughter or friend. The results revealed that I made little room for intentional connecting.

Like many of you across the organization, I look forward to my weekly Sabbaths. They are a reminder that we need to both work and rest, and I enjoy every single one of them. What would it look like if we created spaces throughout our week to have mini-Sabbath experiences? What if we made specific spaces in each day even if they are only 15 minutes long to create the same connections?

Scriptures prompt us to be wise stewards of our time. As I read Paul’s words above to the church in Thessalonica that he worked to create with God’s help, I am encouraged. How did he manage multiple congregations, travel, navigation of social customs and norms, work a second job, study scripture, counsel and much more? He was busy! He had no computers, social media, pager, cellphone or email!

When we read his letters, we discover that he purposely made time to connect with God, himself and others. This line of scripture is the “secret sauce” — Paul knew that it was only with God’s help that we can learn to love and stay connected to one another. He spent time in payer for himself and others, which resulted in tangible acts that facilitated intentional times of connecting.

All of us who work for this organization are busy, striving to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ. As we move through these last weeks of summer, it is my prayer that we make space in our schedules for margins. Join me in acquiring daily and weekly habits and experiences that provide both rest and renewal.

Taking walks around campus with someone, having lunch with others with no agendas, finding moments to be still, practicing mindfulness, praying, and sending a text or note of gratitude are just a few of the ways that can help us stay connected to one another and reclaim the margins of your life.

—Dilys Brooks, MDiv, is associate campus chaplain at Loma Linda University

]]>
Thu, 03 Aug 2017 09:29:23 -0700
4264:31436 <![CDATA[Loma Linda to sponsor Redlands Bowl concert]]> By Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Health is celebrating the connection between music and wellness by sponsoring the Tuesday, Aug. 8 Redlands Bowl concert featuring Riders in the Sky, a two-time Grammy-winning cowboy quartet carrying on the tradition of Western music.  

Loma Linda University Health is calling the evening Harmony of Wellness, and the program will also include testimony from a patient family about their experience at Loma Linda University Health.

During intermission, President Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, will speak.

The program begins at 8 p.m. Admission is free, and all are welcome. Arrive early to ensure seats and pick up a special edition of A Healthy Tomorrow for Harmony of Wellness.

This is the second year that Loma Linda University Health has sponsored a performance at Redlands Bowl to show support for the community and how healthful activities such as music contribute to the health of the whole person.

]]>
Thu, 03 Aug 2017 09:31:03 -0700
4264:31437 <![CDATA[National survey names Behavioral Medicine Center a top workplace]]> By Larry Becker Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center has been identified as one of the top workplaces in the healthcare industry, according to Modern Healthcare magazine.

Recognized as the leader in healthcare business news, research and data, Modern Healthcare revealed the 150 companies and organizations on its 2017 Best Places to Work in Healthcare list. This recognition program is now in its 10th year. The annual survey allows Modern Healthcare to honor workplaces throughout the healthcare industry for empowering their employees to provide patients and customers with the best possible care, products and services.

Organizations are selected based on an assessment process the magazine operates in partnership with the Best Companies Group. Nearly 350 randomly selected employees of the Behavioral Medicine Center completed an extensive survey.

Kerry Heinrich, JD, CEO of Loma Linda University Medical Center, said the recognition from Modern Health Care validates the sense of purpose Loma Linda University Health employees demonstrate at work every day.

“Our commitment to whole person care at Loma Linda University Health applies not only to our patients, but to our employees as well,” Heinrich said. “The Behavioral Medicine Center team serves with dedication and compassion as they support patients facing critical moments in their lives. This survey reveals our employees value their respectful, team-focused workplace. We are grateful that Modern Healthcare has identified our team for this singular honor.”

Edward Field, MBA, vice president for the Behavioral Medicine Center, said the award from Modern Healthcare is an affirmation for the integrated treatment approach the staff uses in addressing mental health issues.

“Each day our leadership team is focused on engaging our staff,” he said. “We believe our work to create an environment where they can learn, grow and thrive together as a team demonstrates the value we place in them. This award validates those efforts.”  

Kristyne Armenta, a clinical therapist who works in the social services department on the adult unit, confirms the Behavioral Medicine Center offers employees a positive workplace.

“Anytime I need to speak to a director or my direct supervisor, they always offer abundant support,” Armenta said. “I never feel afraid to come to them with something. They have your back no matter what.”

Armenta joined the Behavioral Medicine Center staff in September 2016 after working as a San Bernardino County social worker.

“I’ve had an amazing experience,” Armenta said. “Here you really feel like teamwork makes the dream work. Each person who works on a case — whether psychiatrist, dietician, occupational therapist, nurse, even the chaplains — we all come together to provide the best possible care.”

Jane Pasuhuk, a registered nurse who has worked at the center for nearly 20 years, agrees that the team-based approach to patient care is an essential value to the employees there.

“The Behavioral Medicine Center is a great place to work because of the people,” Pasuhuk said. “By practicing living our values — compassion, integrity, excellence, teamwork and wholeness — we become a great team.

“Management is very supportive,” Pasuhuk added. “They are very caring and always take time to listen regarding concerns and suggestions.”

Pasuhuk also points to the center’s faith-based perspective as significant.

“Reflecting God’s love through caring, respect and empathy is very important to our work environment and for our patients’ healing,” she said.

The Behavioral Medicine Center will be honored at the 2017 Best Places to Work Awards Dinner on Thursday, Sept. 28, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

]]>
Modern Healthcare.]]> Thu, 03 Aug 2017 09:33:05 -0700
4264:31438 <![CDATA[Tuition halved for RN-to-BS program at School of Nursing]]> By Nancy Yuen Loma Linda University’s School of Nursing has reduced tuition for its RN-to-BS degree program by nearly half in order to make the program more accessible for working nurses.

Tuition was reduced to $19,600, down from $35,000, to attract more working nurses who wish to complete their bachelor of science degree in nursing, said Joanna Shedd, PhD, CNS, RN, program director of the school’s RN-to-BS in nursing program.

Nurses who complete the program open the door to greater professional opportunities including working as a nurse manager, supervisor or charge nurse, Shedd said.

She said nurses practicing with an associate’s degree who have been unable to complete their BS degree due to high tuition costs or because of stringent prerequisite requirements are encouraged to try again.

The school’s RN-to-BS degree program is now fully online and is structured to accommodate schedules of working nurses by allowing them to complete it full- or part-time.

Students in the program will explore areas of professional interest, including public health nursing, management and research under the guidance and instruction of expert and caring faculty. The faculty is committed to helping each student reach the highest level of success possible, Shedd said.

“Our faculty care about every student,” she said. “The students in our program are not just a number.”

Student evaluations support this. “The professors are easy to meet with or reach via phone or email,” wrote one student.

“The teachers get to know the student and care in this program,” commented another.

Program vitals

School of Nursing faculty are taking great care to decrease the anxiety of nurses who are considering going back to school to pursue a BS degree after having strong experience as a professional nurse, said Andreia Lofthouse, executive director of student and alumni relations for the school.

Nurses who may have inquired about the program several years ago will benefit from changes to program requirements, she said.

Applicants are no longer required to have taken physics or a second language, and there is no longer a five-year limit to have completed science courses if they are working full-time as a nurse, Lofthouse said.

Nurses are encouraged to contact the school’s office of admissions before submitting an application. “We are committed to students even before they apply,” she said. “We review transcripts and provide guidance as nurses complete prerequisites for the program in schools in their area.”

For more information, visit the RN-to-BS program website

]]>
Thu, 03 Aug 2017 09:37:01 -0700
4264:31439 <![CDATA[Campus cafeterias to debut Wellness Value Meals]]> By Esmerelda Guerrero and Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Health is introducing new Wellness Value Meals at all its entities, including Loma Linda – Murrieta, out of a commitment to provide employees, students, patients and visitors with tasty, healthy and affordable food options.

The Wellness Value Meals will debut at all cafeterias Monday, Aug. 14, and will thereafter be served weekly Mondays through Fridays. The cost will be $4 for each meal. Employees with their ID badge receive an additional 20 percent off cafeteria purchases.   

The new Wellness Value Meals can also be ordered through catering for events, meetings and celebrations, providing enhanced nutrition for attendees.

What you get

Each freshly prepared meal of the day will feature a healthful mix of whole grains, vegetables and protein. To meet wellness criteria, each meal must meet at least six out of the seven nutritional standards below:

Nutrient                             Ideal range per meal

Calories                                600 kcal or less
Saturated fat                        5 grams or less
Added sugar                         6 grams or less
Fiber                                    7 grams
Protein                                 15 to 18 grams
Whole food/grain                  100 percent unrefined
Fruits and vegetables            2 servings

Better eating for Living Whole

The Wellness Value Meals were dreamed by President Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, and developed by a committee co-chaired by Rod Neal, MBA, senior vice president of finance, and Lyndon Edwards, MBA, MHS, senior vice president of adult hospital services.

This new benefit is part of Loma Linda University Health’s commitment to fostering the health of its employees. The Living Whole Wellness Program encourages employees to take advantage of this affordable, healthy meal option.

In addition, the Living Whole Wellness Program maintains a database of healthy and delicious recipes that meet wellness criteria for healthy living. Recipes are available for free download at myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole/recipes.

 

 

 

]]>
Thu, 03 Aug 2017 09:40:03 -0700
4264:31440 <![CDATA[Notes from the President — The Value of History]]> By Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   August 2017
The Value of History

“Richard

As I write, we have seven of our nine grandchildren here — playing, reading, occasionally helping, coming from Redlands, Denver, and Harare. I always enjoy these brief interludes when the house is full once again of children laughing and crying, creating and arguing, alliances formed and broken, making memories that will last a lifetime. I made a list to try and entice them into my to do list — lumberjack, basic and advanced, (helping me cut and haul firewood), mountaineering, basic and advanced (going on long hikes, often without trails), barn raising (extending the llama corral to cover the hay), candy making (drying apricots), and cider making (only the Gravensteins are ripe this time of year, but still good). Still haven’t got to dog whisperer (teaching the dogs how to use the new doggy door), or draining the swamp, always a favorite (draining, cleaning and patching the pond liner from the tears caused by bears climbing out after cooling off!)

I can’t help but think back to when our three daughters were that age, and our wishes and fears for their future. What kind of world will my grandkids inherit? I have no doubt there will be plenty of challenges for them to engage with, as diseases morph into new forms, conflict and refugees continue to expand, and peace and stability still elude both this country and the world. We can’t plan the future by looking in the rearview mirror, but looking back does help understand and explain who we are and where we are headed today.

And so next month we will be remembering a seminal event in the history of Loma Linda — moving into our iconic cloverleaf towers the summer of 1967 — 50 years ago. It was between my 1st and 2nd years in med school. We had watched the building being completed during the year. I got a job working for Turner Moving and Storage that summer, and we were contracted to use our moving vans to transport patients in their beds over to the new hospital. The faculty and staff who were part of that move are now fewer and fewer, so we want to recall and celebrate those memories while we can. It is also extremely important for our current faculty, employees, students, and friends to know that history, to reflect on what we all take for granted now.

HistoryOn Sunday, August 27, at 2 pm in the University Church, we are going to remember, laugh, and marvel at that major change at Loma Linda. Other than the initial purchase of Loma Linda and its original buildings, there is probably no other single characteristic that has identified us more than this building. Those who were involved as faculty and staff in the move, the first residents to work there, the faculty children who grew up during that epochal time, and those with special memories will all be here to share this moment in history. Video clips will be shown from the move to amplify and perhaps correct some of those memories!

We also want to reflect on all the special stories that have taken place in this building over the past 50 years. Many of them you know — Baby Fae, Proton development, separating Siamese twins, etc., but many others have been forgotten by most of us — developing fetal heart monitoring, new coronary catheter techniques, etc. Everyone is invited for this look back at the gifts God has bestowed through Loma Linda.

Even as we look back, we are also deep into building a new medical center and expanded children’s hospital that will dominate this landscape for years to come. The foundation is in, the steel pedestals the building will sit on are arriving, and soon steel beams will start coming up out of the ground. There is no question this new building will usher Loma Linda into another epochal period of its storied history. Events and pictures will be told and shown through the coming years. But more important than the building itself will be the people and events that happen inside. Students learning new skills, residents perfecting their specialties, faculty pushing the boundaries of science, and thousands of patients blessed with a special kind of care. 

It is also time to update you on our Vision 2020 campaign. While the philanthropy goal of $360 million seemed rather preposterous when the campaign was announced in 2014, we are delighted to report that we are now less than $100 million away from reaching that goal. As of July, we were at $265.4 million! Thank you, thank you! What a blessing your support has been. And what a shout out of confidence this has given to all of us who labor on this project. This last $100 million will be the toughest part of the campaign. But, as God led in the founding of Loma Linda with answers to prayers in unexpected ways, we continue to look to Him for guidance and support as we carry out His ministry here through Vision 2020. 

Each dollar committed has been put specifically into the part of the campaign desired by the donor.  This includes the hospital portion of $225 million, including $200 million for the building and $25 million for special equipment upgrades in several areas. There is $120 million for the university and our eight schools, along with various research initiatives. We are still working towards the construction of a new research building and are hoping for a naming gift to jump start that project.  Finally, there is $10 million for the San Manuel Gateway College at the San Bernardino campus, and $15 million for our wholeness initiatives. While not a part of the original goal, we are also working on raising $6 million for our new campus in Indio providing specialized pediatric and primary care to that area.

Each of these special needs are worthy of your support. Buildings, scholarships, equipment, research and various new initiatives are being launched or enhanced every day. In the health care world, you advance or you lose. So we have collectively taken on this challenge to keep Loma Linda a special place where students aspire to study and patients come for our unique brand of care. 

Finally, we are honored that the Chronicle of Higher Education has selected Loma Linda University as one the “Great Colleges to Work For” in their July 17 issue. Only 79 institutions were chosen out of 232 colleges and universities. We believe that this honor is a tribute to our faculty’s outstanding teaching and staff’s dedicated service to our nearly 4,500 students. I am grateful for the passion, excellence, and commitment to our values each member of the University team exhibits on a daily basis. You can read more about this honor here.

Thank you for believing in this place and helping it remain what we all want it to be and more.

Sincerely yours,

“Richard

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH

President

Loma Linda University Health

]]>
Thu, 03 Aug 2017 09:41:51 -0700
4264:31396 <![CDATA[Hospitality's many facets ]]> By Kathy McMillan “Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling.”–1 Peter 4:9

Can you think of a time when you were offered warm hospitality? Perhaps you were invited to someone’s home for a special meal. A good host creates an experience that helps you feel special and honored.

Traveling in Germany several years ago, our family of four visited the church where my husband had attended school in Mainz 20 years before. An 85-year-old woman in the church, who had known my husband and his family, was delighted to meet us. Although she had no advance notice that we were coming, she immediately invited us to her home for Sabbath lunch.

We arrived at her comfortable condominium and she set about to prepare a meal for four hungry travelers. As she cooked and we assisted, she inquired about my in-laws and asked our children questions. We felt incredibly welcome in her home and were astounded by her gracious hospitality.

In the work setting, hospitality has created a niche of its own. There is an entire industry built around this concept. The goal is to ensure that guests have a pleasurable experience. Some might call it customer service, but it would be helpful for us to expand our imagination of what hospitality might look like here at Loma Linda University Health.

Certainly hospitality is something we want to extend to our students and our patients. But what about offering it to our colleagues? Inviting a coworker to our office for friendly dialogue may seem like a luxurious use of time, but the bonds that are strengthened as a result can last a lifetime. Including an associate in a conversation, inviting someone to join you at the lunch table or simply stopping to ask about another’s family are all ways to extend hospitality at work.

The Apostle Paul adds one last caveat: do it without grumbling. This has to be a gift of the heart, not a duty to be checked off a list.

For the next week, let’s commit to finding ways to be hospitable to each other. Enjoy!

—Kathy McMillan is director of Employee Spiritual Care at Loma Linda University Medical Center.

]]>
Thu, 27 Jul 2017 11:18:26 -0700
4264:31397 <![CDATA[The struggle is real: making and maintaining healthy habits]]> By Esmerelda Guerrero and Heather Reifsnyder The Living Whole Wellness Program at Loma Linda University Health is offering two programs to help employees and covered spouses create and maintain healthy habits. While many individuals already know how to eat more healthfully and that they should exercise more and better manage stress, making and maintaining such changes can be a struggle.

The two Living Whole programs allow individuals to choose the level of support they need to improve their health.

Unstuck Program

The Unstuck Program is a cognitive educational group for people struggling to make healthy changes. The program will help attendees set SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time Defined) goals, make an action plan and stay motivated.

The next session will run for eight weeks, from Sept. 12–Oct. 31.

Unstuck is free when program attendance requirements are met.

For Life Program

The For Life Program is designed to help individuals maintain healthy changes by implementing accountability tips and strategically planning for roadblocks or barriers.

The next session will run for 10 weeks, from Sept. 12–Nov. 14.

For Life is free when program attendance requirements are met.

How to sign up

To register and receive additional information for either of these programs, call the Living Whole Wellness Program at ext. 14007 before Aug. 25. To achieve maximum benefit, participants must have a one-on-one appointment with their class facilitator by the 25th. This enables the Living Whole Wellness Program to offer personalized services.

Both the Unstuck and For Life programs will meet at LLUH 101 Building, 101 E. Redlands Blvd., San Bernardino, CA 92408. 

]]>
Thu, 27 Jul 2017 11:20:06 -0700
4264:31398 <![CDATA[Health Disparities Research Symposium returns for 17th year ]]> By Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University holds a symposium each summer showcasing biomedical research performed by diverse students affiliated with the School of Medicine’s Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine, an NIH-recognized Center of Excellence on Health Disparities Research.

This year’s annual Health Disparities Research Symposium will take place Wednesday, Aug. 2, from noon to 7:30 p.m. at Wong Kerlee International Conference Center.

Agenda

Noon to 1:30 p.m. — Scientific panel featuring LLU-NIH alumni

Three PhD graduates who conducted doctoral research in the Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine through the center’s NIH Initiative for Maximizing Student Development grant will share their expertise and experiences in a discussion moderated by Daisy De Leon, PhD, professor of physiology and pharmacology.

The alumni panelists are:

• Frankis Almaguel, MD, PhD, who completed a nuclear medicine fellowship at Wake Forest Baptist Health in North Carolina and a radiology residency at Loma Linda University Health,

• Gabriel Linares, PhD, postdoctoral fellow at University of Southern California, and

• Dequina Nicholas, PhD, postdoctoral fellow at Boston University.

The LLU Initiative for Maximizing Student Development supports PhD students during their graduate training.

2:30 to 5:30 p.m. — Student research poster session

Minority students who have been mentored in research by faculty affiliated with the Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine will offer scientific poster presentations on their investigations.

The come-and-go session will feature 74 student research posters on disciplines ranging from public health to basic science to clinical trials.

These students come from local high schools, undergraduate colleges across the nation, medical schools all over the country and Loma Linda University PhD programs.

5:30 to 7 p.m. — Keynote: “Scientific Apprenticeships: Mentoring by Individuals and Programs”

This keynote address will be presented by Frank Bayliss, PhD. Bayliss is a professor at UC San Francisco and San Francisco State University. At the latter, he is also director of the Office of Student Enrichment Opportunities. He is a 2009 recipient of the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics and Engineering Mentoring for his work in advancing diversity and STEM education.

7 to 7:30 p.m. — Acknowledgements of students

The day will end with an acknowledgement of research fellows by the leadership of the LLU Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine. 

Registration

Registration (free) for the symposium is encouraged by July 31 and can be done at llu.edu/hdr. For more information, e-mail chdmm@llu.edu.

About the Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine

The NIH- recognized center conducts research delving into the contributors of health disparities and diseases that disproportionately impact minority and medically underserved populations. Contributors to these disparities may include biological, environmental and socioeconomic factors.

The center also contributes to building diversity in the field of biomedical graduate professions. It offers several programs that give high school through graduate-level students experience in researching diseases associated with health disparities.

Learn more at the LLU Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine website.

]]>
Thu, 27 Jul 2017 11:23:19 -0700
4264:31399 <![CDATA[All Star Appreciation Day will combine America's pastime with prizes]]> By Heather Reifsnyder Baseball and bonus prizes await attendees of All Star Appreciation Day at San Manuel Stadium, where the Inland Empire 66ers will battle the Lake Elsinore Storm.

Taking place Wednesday, Aug. 9, at 7 p.m., All Star Appreciation is annual event to thank employees, volunteers and students of Loma Linda University Health. (A separate event will be held later in August for employees and volunteers of LLU Medical Center – Murrieta.)

Each employee, student or volunteer may receive up to six free tickets to the game by visiting ie66ers.com/llu. At this time, only lawn seats are still available; click on the lawn icon and enter how many tickets you need. 

Opportunity drawings will take place throughout the game, culminating in the giveaway of a Hawaiian vacation package at evening’s end. Other prizes will include a Canon EOS Rebel T6 camera, iRobot vacuum cleaner, Samsung television and his-and-her bicycle cruisers.

With the exception of night shift employees*, one must be present to win. A postcard has been mailed to each student, employee and volunteer. To enter the drawings, place this postcard in a raffle drum at the front entrance before the start of the game. ID badge must be presented.

Parking is free with ID badge. San Manuel Stadium is located at 280 South “E” St., San Bernardino, CA 92401.

The Inland Empire 66ers are a Minor League affiliate of the LA Angels of Anaheim and 2013 California League Champions.

* Night shift employees will receive a postcard entry form with instructions on how to enter the drawing.

]]>
Thu, 27 Jul 2017 11:24:52 -0700
4264:31400 <![CDATA['Look 17' web redesign to roll out]]> By Heather Reifsnyder The website redesign for Loma Linda University Health’s approximately 50 URLs — known internally as “Look 17” — will bring increased user-friendliness and easier, faster creation of new pages.            

The rollout for Look 17 has just begun for academic sites (see schedule), to be followed in the fall by work on the healthcare sites. The target completion date for all sites is year’s end, according to Ralph Ambrose, director of web services.

To make this happen, the Web Center added more staff, and the team has doubled its productivity, Ambrose said.

Content editors/contributors throughout the organization can help ensure a smooth upgrade experience by 1) updating content as much as possible prior to the conversion (these how-to videos offer instruction), and 2) maintaining contact with their assigned business analyst in the Web Center. Those not sure who their business analyst is can contact Vivian Chavez, senior business analyst.

Each school or healthcare entity’s redesign will take an estimated 2-3 weeks.

Look 17 builds on the Web Center’s strategy over the last several years. This approach has included training the entire enterprise to use a single content management system, Drupal; pushing out an interim redesign to make all webpages responsive (i.e. mobile friendly); and improving search functionality on the healthcare sites.

Look 17 will be the culmination of these efforts, but also a beginning.

“This brings the Web Center to a higher plateau,” Ambrose said. “Look 17 introduces new efficiencies so we can build innovative features and functionality.”

]]>
Thu, 27 Jul 2017 11:26:11 -0700
4264:31364 <![CDATA[Do Good to One Another: a devotional]]> By Dilys Brooks And do not neglect doing good and sharing, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.

—Hebrews 13:16

Each person employed by Loma Linda University Health or enrolled in a university program is a part of a community with many strengths and one mission. How can we, with our varied cultures, faith and languages, hope to stay on task? Is it possible for us to harness our diversity and make it an asset?

There is an invitation from biblical scripture that can give us direction as we continue to build for a whole tomorrow. The writer of Hebrews challenges us to “do good and share.” The term in scripture that captures what we are being encouraged to do is “koinonia.” This word is an intricate, rich and thoroughly intriguing Greek approach to building community and teamwork. The word is derived from “koinos,” which means common. It connotes sharing with one another and having common unity.

We cannot deny that our hurried pace and responsibilities make it difficult at times to intentionally get to know each other. Yet these long hot days of summer provide a great opportunity to slow down or even cool down and connect with someone you have been meaning to know more deeply all year (I acknowledge that summer travels may impact this!).

When we meet others, we sometimes automatically notice our differences. But while this may be our default, it results in simply creating barriers between us. If, however, we were to ask a few more questions, we would begin to identify all the things we have in common. What if we spent the next week trying to connect with all the people who like to craft, bake, cook, eat, laugh, play games, go for walks … the possibilities are endless! (I’m currently trying out Middle Eastern cooking. Feel free to send me an email with yummy recipes you may have tried.)

While it may be tempting to perceive this as one more thing to add to our ever burgeoning “To Do” list, I would like to suggest that this actually become a way of life for all of us. It is messy and time-consuming to actually learn about each other. However, it is the only way I know how we can actually respond to our calling.

Becoming a unified Loma Linda University Health requires us to go deeper than the quick “hellos” tossed out to each other as we pass by. Join me in identifying ways to accept this invitation to become a community that does good and shares with each other this week and for the foreseeable future.

If we commit to participate in this cultural shift, it will help us stay on mission, please God and create the connected life we all long for.

—Dilys Brooks, MDiv, is associate campus chaplain for Loma Linda University.

 

 

 

]]>
Thu, 20 Jul 2017 11:31:54 -0700
4264:31365 <![CDATA[Live webinar on oral health next week]]> By Esmerelda Guerrero and Heather Reifsnyder Oral health is important to overall health. The Living Whole Wellness Program is hosting a free live-streamed presentation on this topic Wednesday, July 26, from 5:30–6 p.m.

Learn more about the importance of maintaining good oral health from featured speaker John B. Won, DDS, MS, through the live stream at myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole/wellnesslive.

For more information, call 909-651-4007.

Viewers who missed last month’s live broadcast on men’s health can view it on demand in the Wellness Live Archive, along with numerous other past presentations.

]]>
Thu, 20 Jul 2017 11:33:41 -0700
4264:31367 <![CDATA[Nigeria mission trip benefits Adventist hospital, regional community]]> By James Ponder and Ansel Oliver Loma Linda University Health President Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, took a turn treating some unusual patients on a recent medical mission trip to Northern Nigeria.      

While students from four Seventh-day Adventist universities and local medical volunteers treated more than 10,000 people, Hart took time out from the clinic to give antibiotic injections to 60 cows belonging to local Fulani people east of Jos, a city of nearly 1 million people in Plateau state. Cattle form the backbone of the culture and economy of this nomadic people who live throughout Northwest Africa.

“Keeping the cows healthy is extremely important to the Fulani and a great way to help this largely Muslim minority population,” Hart said after assisting Sarah Lowry, a volunteer veterinarian who treated more than 2,000 cattle and goats.

The June 12 to 29 trip advances Loma Linda University Health’s continuing commitment to supporting health outreach in the region and in other parts of the world. Last month’s trip is one of approximately 10 such mission trips each year that are coordinated by the university’s Students for International Mission Service. Many of the trips support rural Seventh-day Adventist medical centers and clinics affiliated with Adventist Health International, which is based in Loma Linda.

The Nigeria trip supported Jengre Adventist Hospital and established the Eto Baba and Buken clinics in Jos. Thirty Loma Linda students, six students from Middle East University in Lebanon, one student from Montemorelos University in Mexico, and a number from Babcock University in Nigeria, joined with some 200 local Adventist medical volunteers in the region.

Danjuma Daniel, MBA, MPH, the trip’s coordinator, said an influx of local volunteer cooks, drivers and church members pushed the total volunteer count to more than 400.

Welcomed upon arrival

Many participants said their arrival became somewhat surreal. When the bus full of tired volunteers fighting jet lag arrived late in Jengre, noise in the area caused several to wonder about the commotion. It turned out a large crowd of local residents, along with a contingent of law enforcement and security officers, were on hand to greet the group with a marching band.

“Dr. Hart stepped off the bus while it was still moving to join the parade,” recalled Ian Walker, the group’s videographer.

The rest of the volunteers followed suit, lining up behind Hart to march through the streets to the tune of “When the Saints Go Marching In.” 

School of Pharmacy student Sarah Snyder dodged puddles as locals danced and sang. “There was a little bit of lightning and it started to rain, which made it even more magical,” she recalled.

The work begins

Over the next two weeks, volunteers provided surgical, dental, eye and primary care, as well as physical therapy, public health education and chaplaincy care.

Blair Luchs, a senior at LLU School of Nursing, joined two experienced triage nurses in evaluating approximately 500 patients a day.

The work consisted of checking blood pressures, asking if patients had kidney or liver disease, and deciding if they needed surgery. Since there was a limited number of surgeons, they also determined which patients needed it most. Luchs said he treasured the gratefulness of the people.

“Even though we couldn’t resolve all their situations, they were really happy we were there,” he said.

Snyder, the pharmacy student, also learned about the poignant realities of providing care on such a large scale in an area of great need. She had to turn away one patient because it wasn’t possible for him to be seen that day. Roughly 2,000 people were in line ahead of him and only 200 could be treated that day.

“I hated telling him that,” Snyder said. “The fact that there were lots of other people ahead of him didn’t make his needs any less valid.”

Later, a teenage girl pulled Snyder aside to ask her name, where she was from and if they might become friends. “That was all she wanted,” Snyder said. “Just to say ‘hi’ and become friends. It was a good reminder that sometimes even a few words can make someone’s day better.”

Many of the patients came from long distances. One boy walked, hitched rides and rode buses to get to the clinic. He had experienced hearing loss for more than a year, which was interfering with his performance in school. Keri Genstler, MD, a resident pediatrician at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital, said the boy’s ears were heavily impacted with cerumen, commonly known as ear wax. She soaked his ears in water and spent an hour disimpacting the wax and removing a foreign body in his ear canal.

Ed Drachenberg, director of Students for International Mission Service, said the team performed more than 170 surgeries, treated more than 700 dental patients, treated more than 2,500 eye patients and distributed more than 3,000 pairs of glasses.

Government officials took notice. The volunteer group was hosted by Jacob Gyang Buba, king of the Plateau region, and Simon Lalong, governor of Plateau state.

Long-term support

The trip also helped further solidify Loma Linda’s ongoing support of medical outreach in the region. Peter Baker, JD, MBA, administrator of Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta, was appointed chair of the Adventist Health International–Northern Nigeria Board of Directors during the trip, taking over the post for Hart.

The board — comprising local Adventist Church officials, other Adventist Health International representatives and selected lay members — oversees seven clinics and one hospital in Nigeria’s central and northern rural areas. It intends to establish more facilities in urban centers and turn a clinic into a regional diagnostic center. 

Hart will continue serving on the board, and he and Baker will travel to Nigeria twice a year for meetings and participate in two others each year by teleconferencing.

On the trip, Baker pointed out the warm, welcoming spirit of the locals and the enthusiasm of student volunteers. “It was great to see how active the students were in trying to treat and heal as many peoples as possible,” he said.

Hart said mission trips reaffirm the university’s commitment to global mission and reinforce its traditional emphasis on service. “This speaks to both alumni and other friends of Loma Linda University Health who watch our activities and believe in our commitments,” he said.

Hart insisted that even though locals benefited by the service provided, Nigerians were not the sole beneficiaries.

“The biggest impact will be on those of us who served,” he said.

]]>
Thu, 20 Jul 2017 11:36:49 -0700
4264:31372 <![CDATA[LLU named a '2017 Great College to Work For']]> By James Ponder and Briana Pastorino The Chronicle of Higher Education reports that Loma Linda University is a great college to work for.

The publication’s list, released July 17 in the Chronicle’s 10th annual report on The Academic Workplace, is based on a survey of more than 45,000 people from 232 colleges and universities. Of that number, 79 institutions made the list as one of the “2017 Great Colleges to Work For.” The list is based on 1) an institutional audit that captured demographics, benefits, communication and workplace policies and 2) a survey administered to faculty, administrators and support staff.

Employee feedback played a primary role in determining whether an institution received recognition.

Loma Linda University was honored in five categories this year:

• Confidence in senior leadership
• Job satisfaction
• Professional/career development programs
• Supervisor/department chair relationship, and
• Work/life balance.

LLU administrators’ words of thanks

In acknowledging the recognition from The Chronicle of Higher Education, Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health, said LLU faculty and staff offer outstanding teaching and dedicated service to the approximately 4,500 students in the university’s eight schools.

“Our entire university team shares a strong commitment to extending the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ,” Hart said. “I am so grateful for the passion, excellence and the commitment to our values each of them exhibits. Their devotion to sharing their knowledge and expertise with our students inspires me.”

LLU Provost Ronald Carter, PhD, said, “We appreciate the dedication of each and every one of our more than 3,200 employees. Visitors, particularly the many accreditation teams that visit our campus, remark on the palpable sense of unity — a family of faculty, staff and students who are glued together by whole person care, academic excellence and service to the world. We are small enough to know each other and large enough to impact our community — both regionally and globally.”

Employee testimony

Two employees of Loma Linda University — one a faculty member, the other a professional support staff member — recently shared their thoughts on the campus work environment.

Aaron Moesser, MOT, OTR/L, assistant professor and academic coordinator of occupational therapy at the School of Allied Health Professions, said the role of senior leadership cannot be overstated in making the university a great place to work. Moesser graduated from the school in 2010 and since then, has observed senior leaders working to improve cooperation between schools and departments.

“I think that’s important because it demonstrates to students that once they graduate, they should be able to work together as a team of medical professionals,” Moesser said. “Recently, I’ve also seen how responsive they are to concerns of employees and faculty members.”

Moesser plans to take advantage of the university’s generous program of educational benefits by pursuing a doctoral degree in occupational therapy. He described his department chair as “phenomenal.”

“She’s very supportive of my opinions and of our field work program,” Moesser said. “She is also concerned with my overall wellbeing, and I really appreciate that.”

Ann Bradshaw, office manager of the Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine, exemplifies the way many professional support staff members feel about working for LLU.

Bradshaw, who started working at the university 30 years ago, identified three factors that contribute to her high level of job satisfaction: great educational opportunities for employees to pursue professional growth; a safe and positive work environment; and a faith-based culture that attracts students, faculty and staff who want to make the world a better place.

“I could never see myself working anywhere else,” Bradshaw said, adding that she has declined numerous opportunities to work elsewhere.

Because of a passion to help people overcome substance abuse, Bradshaw seeks balance in her life by volunteering an average of two hours a week at Drug Alternative Program, a Christian recovery program for men, where she facilitates a monthly support group and provides counseling services. She has volunteered for the program as long as she has worked at LLU.

Her favorite thing about working at LLU is the people. “Oh, my goodness, I love the people I work with,” she said. “I love my boss, I love my coworkers, I love the students. And this is amazing to me; I actually feel that they love me.”

]]>
Thu, 20 Jul 2017 11:40:19 -0700
4264:31374 <![CDATA[43 days left to complete Wholeness Health Plan requirements]]> By Heather Reifsnyder and Esmerelda Guerrero The Wholeness Health Plan at Loma Linda University Health offers the most benefits for the best price. Employees who want to remain in this plan without a surcharge, or sign up for the first time, must complete the A-B-C requirements below by Sept. 1, 2017.

(This applies to employees, and their covered spouses, of all entities except LLU, which will go through this process next year, and LLU Medical Center – Murrieta, which has a separate health plan with its own requirements, also due soon.)

Wholeness Health Plan requirements

More than 50 percent of employees and spouses have completed one of the three A-B-C requirements. However, some still need to start, and the time is now.

• A: Assessment and Account — 42.6 percent of employees and covered spouses must still complete the Health Risk Assessment (HRA), and 11 percent still need to create a MyChart account.

• B: Biometric screening — 40 percent of employees and covered spouses still need to schedule their free biometric screening appointment.                                                                                    

• C: Care management — This step only applies to employees or covered spouses who receive an invitation.

Step-by-step

To get started on the requirements, follow these three steps:

One: Visit myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole/planrequirements.

Two: Print out the Quick Guide for “Current Health Plan Members.” This guide contains the instructions and the usernames and passwords needed for the biometric screening and Health Risk Assessment sites.

To ensure a convenient time for the biometric screening, make the appointment as soon as possible; more than 7,400 slots have already been taken.

Three: If you received a letter for care management prior to June 1, 2017, you will need to complete the outlined care management activities before Sept. 1, 2017. If you have not received a care management letter, this requirement does not apply.

]]>
myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole/planrequirements to get started.]]> Thu, 20 Jul 2017 11:43:57 -0700
4264:31376 <![CDATA[New financial benefits take effect]]> Compiled by Heather Reifsnyder As part of Loma Linda University Health’s commitment to competitively compensate employees, two new enhancements are being introduced in response to employee feedback and market analysis: 1) improved continuing education benefits and 2) differential pay for preceptor hours.*

As an academic healthcare facility, Loma Linda University Health values the personal and professional growth of employees, and market data confirms that its educational benefits exceed what most employers offer.  

To further show appreciation to long-term employees, the organization is enhancing the educational benefit. 

Effective July 2017, Loma Linda University Health is adding two additional tiers of benefits based on years of service. As a result, the benefit increased from $300 up to a maximum benefit of $1,200, based on years of service and benefit eligibility status. The benefit can now be used toward continuing education courses and seminars. 

Employees are encouraged to take advantage of the educational benefits offered. 

Human Resource Management values staff feedback, which it seeks through the Employee Recruitment & Retention Committee. The educational benefit enhancement partly grew out of that process, along with the following compensation change.                                                                                                             

As a teaching facility, precepting is an essential part of staff development and the delivery of patient care. As such, differential pay for certain eligible clinical jobs became effective July 2, 2017, to coincide with the new fiscal year. The API automation of this differential pay is expected to be in place by the pay period ending July 29. 

In the meantime, for pay period ending July 15, 2017, departments shall submit their authorization for differential pay via spreadsheet information:

• EE#
• Employee name  
• Differential (PC1 or PC2)  
• Date of occurrence
• In and out clockings 

Once the system changes are live in API, workforce management will notify editors and approvers and provide instructions.

Know what your pay and benefits include

Employees may view their Total Rewards Statement through PeoplePortal to see the value of their benefits and compensation.

For additional information on educational benefits, Total Rewards Statement or pay, contact Human Resource Management at ext. 14001 or HumanResources@llu.edu

For more information regarding processing for precepting pay, contact Payroll at Payroll@llu.edu.

 

*These changes do not yet apply for LLU Medical Center – Murrieta.

 

 

]]> Thu, 20 Jul 2017 11:48:13 -0700 4264:31274 <![CDATA[Greater Than our Perspective — a devotional]]> By Carl Ricketts There are times in our lives when God seems ever-present, His direction so clear, our connection so deep. He is answering our prayers and our faith life is a fertile valley nourished by the dew in the morning.

And then there are seasons when we feel lonely and struggle to focus. We don’t trust the paths presented to us; every direction seems equal, so every direction feels wrong. We feel deserted, looking for an oasis to rescue us from our arid spiritual landscape. Desperately we cry out to God, and He just seems silent.

Is God there?

It’s amazing how the biblical character Job would explain this. Job would say, “I cry to you for help and You do not answer me, I stand and You only look at me.”

The psalmist David would say, “God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me from the words of my groaning? Oh, my God, I cry by day, but You do not answer, and by night, but I find no rest.”

Have you ever experienced a time in your life when God seemed silent?

I’ve been in that place before. It can seem strange, especially when you’re accustomed to communicating with God. I know many people who pray regularly — they wake up in the morning in prayer. At least that’s how my grandmother would teach me. It used to hurt my knees every day. She would say, “Wake up and pray,” and we would pray for hours. 

We are taught to pray in the noonday and when we come home at night. Communicating with God is how many of us were raised, taught and trained. And we get used to this communication — when we speak to Him we hear from Him.

And then a day comes when we speak to God and it seems He is silent.

Christian author Jon Bloom says, “I’m not even going to attempt to answer why God seems silent.” But I like how Bloom talks about it. He asks us, and himself, questions:

“Why is it that absence makes the heart grow fonder but familiarity breeds contempt?”

“Why is water so much more refreshing when we’re really thirsty?”

“Why am I almost never satisfied with what I have but always longing for more?”

“Why can the thought of being denied a desire for marriage or children or freedom or some other dream create in us a desperation we previously didn’t have?” 

Bloom goes on to ask other questions, “Why is the pursuit of earthly achievement often more enjoyable than the achievement itself? Why do deprivation, adversity, scarcity and suffering often produce the best character qualities in us while prosperity, ease and abundance often produce the worst?”

Do you see the pattern? The pattern is the design of deprivation. Many times when you don’t have something, it drives you. It moves you. It inspires you. If I were to use more descriptors, I would say it compels you. It draws you to seek after the thing that you truly desire — not only to seek after the thing that you truly desire, but to seek after the thing that God desires for you.

Can you imagine being held back for something? Maybe it’s something you’ve wanted so much, you’ve prayed to God for it, and God is silent on the matter. It’s not that He doesn’t want you to have the desires of your heart. It’s not that He doesn’t want you to have the blessings of life. He is silent because He wants to know: “How much, how bad, how much do you desire what I desire for you?”

God will place desires in our heart every day, but nothing can match the desire that He has for well-being, purpose and meaning in your life.

So when you think God is silent, it’s not that He is silent. It’s not that He is absent and He has abandoned you. He is so finely preparing you, fine-tuning you for the dream that you have.

I’ve been through it in my own life. I’ve had moments when I’ve wanted something so badly, and it seemed that God was silent. I’ll never forget one day when there was a knock at the door of my house. I had prayed an earnest prayer for a year, and I thought God had forgotten about it. That knock hit my door, and a package was delivered. I opened it, pulled out a document, looked at it, then screamed to my wife, “There is a God who hears our prayers.”

It had taken a year, and I thought God had forgotten about it. When it seemed God was silent, He was only teaching me a lesson. 

I say this all the time. I believe it in my core being, and I want to share it with you: The promises and blessings God has for your life are greater than the perspective that you’re currently living in.

When you’re in those moments when God seems silent, know that God has promises and blessings for your life. He is just waiting to pour those out on you so that you can have fellowship with Him.

I love the passages from Job and Psalms because I’ve learned from gentlemen like Job and David that weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning. 

I pray that you are strengthened in your own prayers, when you feel that God is being silent — even for a long time — that He will continually draw you closer to Him. In moments of deprivation when it seems nothing will work, in moments of adversity when it seems you are challenged beyond belief, in moments of silence — I pray that God works in you a beautiful work so that His desire for you will be duplicated in you.

I pray that God will be ever-present with you, even when it seems He is so silent.

—Carl Ricketts, MDiv, is the director of chaplain services at Loma Linda University Medical Center

]]>
Thu, 13 Jul 2017 10:54:01 -0700
4264:31276 <![CDATA[General Counsel Kent Hansen receives honorary doctorate ]]> By Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Health’s general counsel of 17 years, Kent Hansen, JD, received an honorary doctorate of laws, honoris causa, from his alma mater La Sierra University along with a standing ovation from the university’s executive leaders and trustees.

La Sierra University President Randal Wisbey, DMin, and Provost Joy Fehr, PhD, presented the honor during the school’s June 18 commencement ceremony. Read La Sierra University’s new story.

Hansen graduated from La Sierra University in 1975 with a bachelor of arts degree in history and political science. 

“In many ways, I found my true self when I commenced college there,” Hansen wrote on Facebook. “Mentors encouraged me to pursue higher education law and I found my career passion in representing the interests of private faith-based colleges and universities, particularly those of my Seventh-day Adventist Church.”

Hansen next received his JD degree from Willamette University College of Law in 1979. He was a shareholder and officer of the law firm of Clayson, Mann, Yaeger & Hansen from 1982 to 2016. 

He has served as general counsel for Loma Linda University Health since 2000. Hansen is also an assistant professor of dental education services in the School of Dentistry at Loma Linda University.

He received Loma Linda University’s Distinguished Service Award in 2011.

]]>
Thu, 13 Jul 2017 10:56:11 -0700
4264:31278 <![CDATA[Expecting couple pays baby shower forward]]> By Heather Reifsnyder Baby girl Ember Gail Chancellor will be a born philanthropist. Her parents-to-be, who will welcome her to the world any day now, donated their baby shower to Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital patients and families in need.

Instead of gifts for themselves, Jenni and Bert Chancellor asked friends and family to buy baby items from the neonatal ICU Amazon Wish List or donate funds to the hospital via their shower giving page

The impact of the gifts will be far-reaching, said Child Life Specialist Cathy Regan. Some will remain on the unit, and others will be sent home with new parents who lack resources.

“People never forget,” Regan said. “The layers run deep of all the positives that are associated with donations like these.”

She added that besides philanthropists who donate to Children’s Hospital, there is a community of individuals who pray for the hospital and its patients. “We can tell our families ‘There are people who are surrounding you, whom you will never meet, who care,’” Regan said.

Ember, or Emi for short, will be the Chancellors’ first child together. In planning for her arrival, the couple discussed feeling guilty about having a baby shower when they are fortunate to be financially stable.

“There are a whole lot of people who come into the hospital to have a baby and are wondering where the car seat is going to come from, or how they are going to get formula,” said Bert Chancellor, executive director of Information System Business Services for Loma Linda University Medical Center.

The couple delivered all the shower gifts to Children’s Hospital June 12, with many of the clothing and other items reflecting their love of fantasy superheroes.

In real life, though, it’s up to ordinary people to take care of each other, Bert said. “I think it is a calling for people to invest back into their community.”

Employees who are inspired to give back like the Chancellors are invited to join to the Grow Together Employee Giving Program, through which donations can be made to support areas of the organization they are passionate about.

]]>
Thu, 13 Jul 2017 10:59:04 -0700
4264:31280 <![CDATA[Hyperbaric Medicine Service receives accreditation]]> By James Ponder The Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society recently awarded full accreditation to Loma Linda University Medical Center’s Hyperbaric Medicine Service, signaling that the facility meets or exceeds the highest standards of care and patient safety within the medical specialty.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy involves the use of medical oxygen administered in a sealed chamber at levels higher than atmospheric pressure, enabling oxygen to dissolve more rapidly into the blood. It’s used as part of a multi-disciplinary approach to the management of wounds and other conditions, such as pressure-related scuba diving injuries, arterial obstructions due to blood clots or air bubbles, and carbon monoxide poisoning. 

Participation in Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society accreditation is voluntary. Laren Tan, MD, medical director for hyperbaric medicine at Loma Linda University Medical Center, said the accreditation demonstrates the organization’s commitment to the highest standards of practice and patient safety.

“We are proud of our team members for achieving this significant milestone and for their commitment to our patients,” Tan said. “It could not have been achieved without the concerted effort of our physicians, respiratory care practitioners, critical care nursing staff, technicians and management team working together.”

Tan said Loma Linda University Medical Center is one of only two accredited academic hyperbaric oxygen centers in all of California. Roughly 200 of the approximately 1,500 hospitals in the United States offering hyperbaric oxygen therapy have earned the right to display the Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society accreditation seal.

Hyperbaric treatment has become more user-friendly in recent years. Instead of the claustrophobia-inducing metal chambers of the past, the clear acrylic chambers of today allow patients to look outside, recline in comfort, watch their favorite TV shows or movies on a large, flat-screen TV with its own DVD player, or take a nap throughout the two-hour treatment. A specially trained chamber operator is present at all times throughout the procedure.

Hyperbaric medicine first came to the Medical Center in 1981 under the vision and supervision of the late Valerie Molzahn, MD. In the ensuing years, Drs. Dick Sheldon, Takkin Lo and now Tan expanded the program from a single chamber to four chambers today, including one that can accommodate patients up to seven feet in height and 400 pounds in weight.

Tan said Loma Linda University Health is the only regional center in the Inland Empire that performs routine and critical care hyperbaric treatments.

The Undersea and Hyperbaric Medical Society is an international nonprofit association serving health professionals in the fields of hyperbaric and dive medicine in more than 50 countries. Accreditation certifies that all aspects of a hyperbaric medicine program have been certified to ensure the utmost quality within the medical specialty.

Lori Scott, MBA, RCP, RRT, executive director of the department of respiratory care, says the goal of the accreditation process is for patients to have the highest confidence in the safety of the program as well as the care offered to them.

“The accreditation is our way of telling patients that we take our responsibilities as their care providers seriously,” Scott said.

]]>
Thu, 13 Jul 2017 11:01:47 -0700
4264:31282 <![CDATA[Quarterly Employee Forums scheduled]]> Heather Reifsnyder Administrators will share news and updates with employees of LLU Medical Center, Surgical Hospital, Children’s Hospital, Behavioral Medicine Center and East Campus; Highland Springs Medical Plaza, and Mountain View Plaza.

The forums will take place according to the schedule below, with refreshments served. Attendees will have the opportunity to win gift cards and will also be entered into a grand prize drawing that will take place after all forums have been completed. 

 

]]>
Thu, 13 Jul 2017 11:04:13 -0700
4264:31231 <![CDATA[A vision coming into focus]]> By Larry Becker Loma Linda University Health’s philanthropic effort “Vision 2020 – The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow” passed a significant milestone with the announcement that less than $100 million of the $360 million goal remains to be raised. More than $265.6 million has been raised as of July 5.

Rachelle Bussell, CFRE, Loma Linda University Health’s senior vice president for advancement, said reaching the milestone demonstrates that community and individuals have gotten involved in the effort in amazing ways. 

“We are so grateful to all who have donated to the campaign, but we know that we still have much work to do. We can’t let up,” Bussell said. “Our community friends and university alumni who believe in our mission to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ have played key roles in helping us reach this point.”

More than 17,400 donors have made more than 94,800 gifts to the Vision 2020 campaign since its launch in 2013. Vision 2020 is the largest philanthropic effort ever undertaken by Loma Linda University Health, and is intended to support:                                                                                                  

Clinical care: funds to complete construction of a new adult hospital and expanded Children’s Hospital, designed to meet California’s stringent seismic building codes for healthcare facilities; 

Education and research: support the training of the next generation of healthcare professionals, and challenge the boundaries of scientific research at Loma Linda University Health;

Wholeness: expansion of research activities, research program endowments, enhanced community programs and additional focus into how people around the world can enjoy lives of wholeness and health.

“This last $100 million is less than one-third of our campaign goal,” Bussell said. “Now we look to people who have not been involved, who are waiting to be involved, or who have not had a chance to be involved. Each gift to Vision 2020 will make a real difference in the lives and health of people in the Inland Empire and around the world.”

A series of events for employees and the public are planned to commemorate the achievement of this campaign milestone. Details and schedules will be shared as they become final.

]]>
Thu, 06 Jul 2017 10:11:15 -0700
4264:31212 <![CDATA[Pay It Forward — a devotional]]> By Dilys Brooks Owe nothing to anyone except to love one another. –Romans 13:8

Have you ever received an unexpected surprise when you attempted to pay for gas, groceries or a hot, tasty beverage only to discover that the cost had already been covered?

What was your first thought? Did you think it was a mistake? Perhaps after hearing it was not an error, you thought next of how you could reimburse the generous benefactor. Were you a little uneasy because you felt indebted to the person who gifted you with this generosity? 

Paul wrote to the Roman Christians encouraging them to be good citizens of Rome through civil activities such as paying taxes and giving respect to whom respect was due. He entreats them to be indebted only through their love of each other.

In the community of faith there should be acceptance, openness, forgiveness and connectedness — everyone welcomed, no one excluded. Possibly, there were individuals who had forgotten the gracious gift that they had received from Christ through His death on a cross.

When we experience generosity that does not require repayment, we can stumble over the largesse or be buoyed along by the knowledge that someone blessed us that day.

We don’t like to be indebted to anyone. This need to self-sufficiently acquire all we have may seem noble — even admirable to some. Yet it is worth noting that we do not live or work in isolation. We belong to family systems, cultural and ethnic groups. Our participation in affinity groups, virtual or face to face, belies the idea that we can live independently of each other.

Perhaps Paul’s injunction to love one another is a nudge toward addressing our need to actively respond to the gift of salvation. We are to love one another as a response to the gift of salvation.

I’ll be the first to admit that learning to be on the receiving end of generosity takes getting used to. What has made the difference for me has been the ability to extend that big-heartedness to others. It makes me giddy with delight to pay it forward! I believe that’s what Jesus and Paul are asking us to do. 

Thankfully, we have many opportunities to do this at Loma Linda University Health. We can volunteer to serve both internationally and locally; mentor new faculty or students; pay for someone’s lunch in one of the cafeterias; send encouraging notes … the possibilities are endless. Join me over these dog days of summer by intentionally looking for ways to love one another.

—Dilys Brooks, MDiv, is associate campus chaplain at Loma Linda University.

]]>
Thu, 06 Jul 2017 09:18:11 -0700
4264:31214 <![CDATA['Praying for the Critically Ill' seminars to be offered]]> By Heather Reifsnyder Clinicians, non-clinicians and students at Loma Linda University Health are invited to learn more about praying for patients during a seminar series taking place during the noon hour Monday, July 10; Tuesday, July 18; and Monday, July 24.

The seminars are organized by Laren Tan, MD, pulmonary and critical care attending physician. Tan said he felt inspired to do so after returning to practice at Loma Linda University Health following his fellowship training at UC Davis Medical Center.

“I realized how critical prayer is for seriously ill or dying patients,” he said. “Practicing at a non-Christian hospital reminded me of the importance of prayer for patients and their families who are receptive to it.”

The agenda of the three-part series is as follows:

Monday, July 10
Presented by guest speaker Eric Walsh, MD
• What is prayer?
• The importance of prayer
• The power of prayer 

Tuesday, July 18
Presented by guest speaker Rodney Bowes
• The evidence behind prayer and healing
• The need for a personal relationship with God

Monday, July 24
Presented by staff physicians Laren Tan, MD; and Dafne Moretta, MD
• Practical tips on praying for those who are ill
• Break-out groups to pray for current patients

All sessions, offered free of charge, take place from noon to 1 p.m. at LLU Medical Center’s A-Level Amphitheater. For more information, call ext. 82962 or email LATan@llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 06 Jul 2017 09:25:19 -0700
4264:31216 <![CDATA[LGBTQ support group starting July 27]]> Loma Linda University Health is starting a monthly LGBTQ support group the fourth Thursday of each month, a program that is an initiative of the organization’s Diversity Council.

The program is open to employees and students, said Jana Boyd, PhD, director of the Employee & Student Assistance Program.

“We’re wanting to help people who may be experiencing challenges with family relationships or work environments,” Boyd said. 

The LGBTQ support group will hold its first meeting at 7 p.m. on July 27 at the Employee & Student Assistance Program center at:

11360 Mountain View Ave.
Hartford Building, Suite A
Loma Linda, CA 92354 

For more information, call 909-558-6050 or ext. 66050.

]]>
Thu, 06 Jul 2017 09:28:15 -0700
4264:31218 <![CDATA[San Manuel Gateway College to expand certification programs in San Bernardino]]> By Heather Reifsnyder San Manuel Gateway College is growing its academic offerings as it prepares for its second year of service. Beginning this fall, the college will add programs for certified nurse assistants and pharmacy technicians to its current certification for medical assistants. Additionally, the college offers training for community health workers/promotores.

The college is accepting applications for fall 2017 for these four programs. Applications received before July 31 will be processed in time for the start of classes in early September. Students applying after July 31 may be waitlisted.

Additionally, interested individuals can apply for two more programs coming in 2018: dialysis technician and surgery technician. 

San Manuel Gateway College offers certificates from Loma Linda University at its San Bernardino campus. The college was established in 2016 to give young people in San Bernardino and the Inland Empire a future beyond high school that also empowers them to serve their underserved communities.

For more established adult learners who are active in community work, the college’s community health worker/promotores training provides academic-based workforce capacity building to reduce health disparities. Individuals who complete this training can help area residents better plug in with local healthcare systems, enabling patients to more successfully follow through with their care plans.

The unique didactic environment at Loma Linda University Health – San Bernardino brings together San Manuel Gateway College entry-level learners with Loma Linda University graduate students and medical residents all training together to gain clinical skills in the SAC Health System clinic at the San Bernardino campus.

The college held its first commencement June 7, graduating 12 medical assistants and 22 community health workers. Neery Velazquez, one of the medical assistant graduates, said the “Gateway” part of the college’s name aptly describes the way it helps them: opening a passage to opportunities they couldn’t have encountered any other way.

To learn more about San Manuel Gateway College, call 855-558-1100 or email sanmanuelgatewaycollege@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 06 Jul 2017 09:33:15 -0700
4264:31219 <![CDATA[Paperless medical record for inpatients begins July 17]]> By Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Health is taking its next step toward elite Stage 7 certification of the inpatient Electronic Medical Record Adoption Model from the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS).

Beginning Monday, July 17, the 24-hour electronic scanning requirement for clinically relevant documents will go into effect at Loma Linda University Medical Center, Children’s Hospital, Surgical Hospital and East Campus.

Paper charts will be picked up at regularly scheduled times daily by the Health Information Management (HIM) department and entered into LLEAP within 2-3 hours, thus ensuring electronically available documentation for clinical providers. LLEAP — Loma Linda Electronic Access Portal — is Loma Linda University Health’s version of the Epic electronic medical record system.

This new effort to paperless medical records supports improved quality patient care and safety, increases hospital efficiency and furthers clinician adoption of electronic health record (EHR) to an even higher degree, said Brenda Taylor, executive director of Health Information Management. 

Learn more about Loma Linda University Health’s journey toward Stage 7 status.

]]>
Thu, 06 Jul 2017 09:34:26 -0700
4264:31222 <![CDATA[International Heart Institute welcomes new director Jon Gardner ]]> Heather Reifsnyder Veteran cardiovascular healthcare executive Jon Gardner became director of Loma Linda University International Heart Institute in June, bringing to the job more than 30 years of leadership experience in growing cardiovascular programs to greater prominence and excellence.

Gardner previously served as vice president for heart and vascular at Centura Health in Denver, where he managed cardiovascular services for 17 nonprofit and 12 affiliate hospitals across Colorado and Kansas.

During Gardner’s four-year term at Centura, the heart and vascular program became Colorado’s No. 1 adult cardiovascular surgery and adult arrhythmia program, and the health system became Colorado’s largest and fastest growing for cardiovascular care.

He has led cardiovascular programs at Duke University Health System, Geisinger/Penn State University Health System and Texas Health Resources Health System, taking each one to regional prominence. 

"We are fortunate to have been able to recruit Jon to join the Loma Linda University Health team, not only because of his significant experience and achievements in leading large cardiovascular services operations, but also because of his commitment and dedication to our mission and whole person approach to patient care,” said Trevor Wright, MHA, chief operating officer for hospitals at Loma Linda University Health.

Gardner said he sees the opportunity at LLU International Heart Institute to do what he relished at each of his previous jobs: raising a top cardiovascular program to the prominence it deserves. At Loma Linda University Health, this includes his plan to bolster the institute’s international outreach.

Gardner said, “The team at LLU International Heart Institute provides the best, most comprehensive cardiovascular care to our community while incorporating the faith component of continuing the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ,” he said.

Gardner said numerous factors convinced him to join Loma Linda University Health, including the caliber of physicians, a strong executive leadership team, quality of staff and the academics and research across campus. He also said he appreciates the organization’s Seventh-day Adventist Christian faith and values, as well as the healthy lifestyle that is modeled and promoted.

Gardner began his career as a practitioner, working in a heart catheter lab as a registered cardiovascular invasive specialist. He holds a bachelor of science degree in health service management from ­La Salle University and has completed leadership training at Duke University Hospital and Cornell University. He is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in global community health from Liverpool University. 

Gardner and his wife, Sue, have five adult children. He enjoys mission trips, outdoor activities and entrepreneurial ventures.

To contact LLU International Heart Institute, call 909-558-4200 for adult services and 909-558-4207 for pediatric services.

For more than 50 years, the institute has served as a trusted leader and provider of cardiovascular services in the Inland Empire, offering a wide variety of heart care services.

These services include adult and pediatric cardiology care, interventional cardiology, adult congenital heart disease treatment, cardiothoracic surgery, heart transplantation, vascular surgery, cardiac imaging, pacemaker clinic, cardiac and pulmonary rehab, cardiac diagnostics and transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR).

]]>
Thu, 06 Jul 2017 09:41:10 -0700
4264:31225 <![CDATA[Notes from the President — Compelled by Compassion]]> By Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   July 2017
Compelled by Compassion

“RichardI have just returned from spending 10 days with a group of students and professionals in northern Nigeria. I participate in this sort of opportunity for three primary reasons — to connect with our students and others, to support and strengthen our health care institutions and local professionals in different countries, and to keep myself anchored in the realities of the “majority world,” where two thirds of the world’s population live. We were blessed to have 30 students from four Adventist universities involved in this trip — Loma Linda; Middle East University in Lebanon; Universidad de Montemorelos in Mexico; and Babcock University in Nigeria.

“01_groupprayer.jpg”

We anchored at Jengre Hospital, a storied but struggling small Adventist hospital about 60 km out of Jos, and saw thousands of patients at Jengre and two sites in Jos. As planned, we had a diverse team and engaged in a variety of activities, including primary care clinics, many different surgical procedures, eye care, dental procedures, rehabilitation evaluations, borehole water sampling, veterinary clinics for the nomadic Fulani and their herds of cattle and goats, Bible schools and educational activities for the children. Our housing options were basic, with cold bucket showers, intermittent electricity, and occasional GI upsets, offset by great Nigerian cooks and mango season. Despite the challenges of living here, everyone we met walking back and forth to our assignments greeted us with a ready smile and “Good mornin’, Suh.” One of the great additions on this trip was over 200 volunteer Nigerians from many professions who provided cultural understanding and professional help.

“01_hartgroup.jpg”

Rainy season had begun, and the fields were either being prepared or already had maize, yams, soy beans, tomatoes, or rice coming up. Their agricultural culture follows tried and true methods that were old a thousand years ago – deep troughs between the planting ridges, designed to carry away the periodic downpours. Maize is the staple, planted two kernels per hole, about 8-10 inches apart. One of my favorite fast foods is still fresh roasted corn-on-the-cob from roadside vendors, sitting around their little fires with 5-6 ears ready at any time. All this raises the old developmental issue, wouldn’t they do better by combining all these farms, buying a tractor, and mechanizing the whole operation? And the answer is the same — who would actually benefit by taking away a family’s heritage and work ethic even if you replace it by money? History has shown that if happiness is the goal, it is usually best to leave the system intact and retain the social fabric.

“01_hartcow.jpg”

I divided my time between the endless clinics and tending to administrative duties. I even took a day at being a vet, giving antibiotic injections to over 60 Fulani cattle. But it was seeing human patients that rested most heavily on my consciousness. First, let me say we have oversold the value of “medicine,” in any form and for every purpose. It is the magic from the West, and each patient feels they have simply not been cared for if they don’t receive at least one prescription. But in between the various aches and pains, there were real cases with tragic pathology:

  • The young man with a septic leg following a dog bite eight months earlier who was unable to afford care;
  •  The malnutrition and protruding abdomens caused by Ascaris (look it up) in so many     children;
  • The young woman with a tense ballooning belly from ascites caused by liver failure;
  • The many with dangerous hypertension but unable to afford medication;
  • The boy with a huge palpable spleen filling half his abdomen from recurrent sickle cell crises;
  • The young mother of two with probable lymphoma, treatable in our country, but sent home to die due to lack of resources or connections.

“road.jpg”

 

So why are some of us blessed with so much, while so many struggle in endless cycles, generation to generation? Where is that biblical year of jubilee, a time of rebalancing the world’s resources? The amount of medical capital we spend chasing a minor ailment at home could care for entire villages in many countries.

It is stories like these that tore at our feelings as we struggled between compassion and justice. As I have said to our San Bernardino students back home, your genetic code is more important than your zip code. But these people are locked into “zip codes” that forever doom them to hard manual labor with little discretionary choices in life. In these settings, life does not seem fair! Mission trips like ours and so many others are thin Band-Aids on the world’s diseases.

Let’s don’t kid ourselves that we are really solving much with our “do good” journeys to the Majority World and their challenges. Loma Linda continues to organize trips like these primarily because it benefits ourselves, providing “teachable moments” for self-reflection and understanding. It is only when we can leave something behind — institutions or education, as well as intangibles like friendship and hope, that we have any chance of breaking this cycle. 

So what to do? I think it is important to clarify that compassion is more than sympathy. Compassion compels to action. It gets involved. At the deepest level it is almost selfish in that it satisfies a longing within each of us. It fulfills the deepest need of the human soul to have meaning, to make a difference. The challenge is to do it well, to move beyond the superficial and do something with lasting impact. Pray that Loma Linda never loses that understanding and commitment.

Sincerely yours,

“Richard

 

 

 

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH

President

Loma Linda University Health

]]>
Thu, 06 Jul 2017 09:44:43 -0700
4264:31179 <![CDATA[Devotional: The First Bite]]> By Kathy McMillan  So my brothers and sisters, when you come together to eat, wait for each other.

~1 Corinthians 11:33

It was a firm rule in our home: when dessert was served, no one could take a bite until the hostess had taken a bite. Our family often had guests over for dinner and I remember, as a young child, looking at the delicious creation on the plate in front of me and sitting on my hands so I wouldn’t forget and sneak a bite. It taught me the value of showing respect to others. My mother had worked hard to prepare the meal and now, we would wait and enjoy eating it with her.

Paul, in his message to the church in Corinth, reminds them of the same thing. Be aware of others; show deference to them. Treat them with respect and care. When you gather for a meal, don’t dive in and start eating. Pay attention to others and make sure everyone has something to eat.

The principle is broader than simple mealtime etiquette and is something we can bring to work on a daily basis. It’s not just behavior that matters; the attitude of our hearts is critical. We can look for ways to be inclusive and respectful in our dealings with others.

In committee meetings, we can ensure that each voice is heard; we can advocate for a staff member’s viewpoint. As we work on implementing projects, it is our responsibility to make sure that all are invited to give input. We can provide an opportunity for diverse opinions to be represented. All of these help us to be an institution that is filled with respect for others.

And just maybe we’ll all be able to enjoy dessert together!

—Kathy McMillan, MA, is director of employee spiritual care at Loma Linda University Medical Center

]]>
Wed, 28 Jun 2017 21:14:05 -0700
4264:31175 <![CDATA['Life on the Line' captures six regional Emmy Awards]]> Nancy Yuen Loma Linda University Health featured prominently during the 47th annual Emmy Awards presented by the Pacific Southwest Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Saturday night, June 24, at the Sheraton San Diego Hotel and Marina.

“Life on the Line,” a documentary TV series that highlights Loma Linda’s stories of transforming lives, won Emmy Awards in six of its seven nominated categories.  

Mound City Films produces “Life on the Line,” contracting with Loma Linda University Health’s Department of Advancement Films.

The show tells stories of hope and courage arising from Loma Linda University Health. Cosmin Cosma, MA, director of Advancement Films at Loma Linda University Health, said he is thankful for the talent and dedication the team has put into producing the series. “Receiving television’s highest award is a testament to their commitment to professionalism,” he said. “It’s our privilege to share stories of hope and courage arising from Loma Linda University Health’s medical work.”

The team has previously received a total of 13 regional Emmys, one of which was for “Life on the Line.”

This year “San Bernardino Strong” was nominated in the documentary category, while episodes or a season of “Life on the Line” were nominated and received Emmy Awards in the following categories:

2017 Emmy Awards for “Life on the Line” Season 3

• Sports – Daily or Weekly Program or Special

Life on the Line: It's About the Journey by Patricia Kelikani, James Pendorf, Erik Edstrom, Michael Wolcott, Cosmin Cosma, Mound City Films

• Director – Non Live (Post Produced)

Life on the Line: San Bernardino Strong, Patricia Kelikani, Mound City Films

• Editor (No time limit) - Program (Non-news)

Life on the Line: Season 3, Michael Wolcott, Erik Edstrom, Patricia Kelikani, James Pendorf, Mound City Films

• Photographer – Program (Non-news)

Life on the Line: Season 3, Erik Edstrom, Michael Wolcott, Cosmin Cosma, Mound City Films

• Editor (No time limit) ­– Short Form

Life on the Line: Show Open, Erik Edstrom, Mound City Films

• Graphic Arts – Graphics: Life on the Line: Show Open 

Erik Edstrom, Mound City Films

Cosma said the documentary film form is a lengthy process, with filmmakers often spending a year or more experiencing the journey side by side with the individuals who are sharing their stories.

“Receiving recognition from the members of The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences boosts our morale and gives us the energy and drive to tell more stories,” Cosma said.

Receiving 2017 Emmy Awards were Cosmin Cosma, Erik Edstrom, Patricia Kelikani, James Pendorf and Michael Wolcott.

“By bringing their artistry and technical skill into the difficult moments of our patients' lives, these filmmakers craft powerful stories that hearten all involved and create meaning out of what are some of life’s darkest points,” said Garrett Caldwell, DMin, executive director of public affairs at Loma Linda University Health. “Their work beautifully illustrates the faithfulness of our employees to fulfill our mission to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ.”

The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences – Pacific Southwest Chapter serves television professionals in San Diego, Bakersfield, Las Vegas, Palm Springs, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Santa Maria.

The chapter received over 900 entries for the 47th show, 217 of which were nominated. From those, more than 100 Emmy Awards were given.

 

 

 

 

 

]]>
Wed, 28 Jun 2017 17:16:23 -0700
4264:31183 <![CDATA[Retina Center opens at Loma Linda University Eye Institute]]> By Ansel Oliver The Loma Linda University Eye Institute held a ribbon-cutting ceremony June 22 for its new Retina Center, a stand-alone suite in the Faculty Medical Offices that will optimize a patient’s experience and wait times when retina services are required.              

The new Retina Center can serve approximately 100 patients a day. The center will soon be staffed with five specialists. Additionally, two other subspecialists will serve those needing neuropathology and oculoplastic services, treating an additional 25 patients a day.

The Eye Institute has grown steadily over the past 15 years, and the new Retina Center will help meet the increasing demand for retina services that have stemmed from population growth and increased preference for service at Loma Linda University Health, said Michael Rauser, MD, director of the institute and chair of ophthalmology at Loma Linda University’s School of Medicine. 

Rauser said he and the staff are pleased for the opportunity to serve the community in a bigger way than ever before.

“It’s really an exciting opportunity to serve, and since space at the Loma Linda University Health campus is a premium, it’s great to now have a stand-alone suite dedicated to retina here in the Faculty Medical Offices,” Rauser said.

Rauser said the new Retina Center will reduce clinic visit times, and a doubled capacity for testing means patients won’t have to wait as long for tests.

The center is located at the Faculty Medical Offices, suite 2900, 11370 Anderson St. in Loma Linda. Appointments may be made by calling 909-558-2154.

 

]]>
Wed, 28 Jun 2017 21:26:09 -0700
4264:31181 <![CDATA[Murrieta opens 5 new Emergency Dept. treatment rooms ]]> By James Ponder Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta unveiled five new treatment rooms — also known as “flex care spaces” — in its Emergency Department on Monday, June 19, a move that will help meet growing demand for emergency services at the hospital. 

The Emergency Department currently provides care to more than 130 patients per day, or more than 45,000 patients per year. With the five new treatment areas, the department now has 23 beds. Two more are expected to be added in the next few months.

Jared Horricks, MBA, executive director of facilities management, said the hospital has experienced significant year-over-year increases in Emergency Department visits since the hospital’s opening in 2011. In response to the community’s need for local healthcare services, Murrieta added the five new treatment areas, along with other emergency medicine service enhancements.

“This five-bed addition is expected to make a major impact on the hospital’s ability to provide timely patient access to medical providers,” Horricks told a gathering at a ribbon-cutting ceremony June 19. “Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta remains committed to providing the best emergency service care and is thrilled to bring this new space and its benefits to the community.” 

Horricks thanked several individuals for playing key roles in seeing the project through to completion: Kristin Butler, RN, manager of Emergency Services; Linda Soubirous, MSN, MPA, RN, chief nursing officer; Kevin Flaig, MD, medical director of Emergency Services; Chad Youngquist, construction manager; Sebastian Ortiz, project engineer; Rene Tovar, MSN, executive director of Outpatient Services; the entire Emergency Department staff and physicians; and Mascari Warner Architects. 

]]>
Wed, 28 Jun 2017 21:20:42 -0700
4264:31106 <![CDATA[Loma Linda University Health employees honored for service]]> By Nancy Yuen In a series of seven employee recognition banquets, Loma Linda University Health honored employees celebrating service milestones.

The banquets honored staff from each Loma Linda University Health entity who had reached employment anniversaries of 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50 and 60 years.

“Loma Linda University Health’s leadership team is deeply grateful for the excellence and commitment to mission each of our employees demonstrate every day,” said Mark Hubbard, senior vice president for Risk Management and Human Resource Management. “As we look to our future, it is our employees who will continue to play key roles in our success as an organization.”

Three employees completed 50 years of service: James Ingold, food service worker at Loma Linda University Medical Center; Leonard Brand, PhD, professor of earth and biological sciences at Loma Linda University; and Ann Ekroth Yukl, MS, RN, assistant professor of nursing at Loma Linda University.

This year Earnest Daniel, senior lab animal technician in the Animal Care Department at Loma Linda University, was the longest-term employee and was recognized for his 60 years of service. Read Daniel’s story here.

During each banquet, employees who were nominated for representing one of Loma Linda University Health’s core values of compassion, integrity, excellence, teamwork and wholeness were given Values Exemplar Awards.

The 2017 Values Exemplar Awards award recipients are:

Crystal Akers, Loma Linda University Children's Hospital
Dottie Berk, Loma Linda University Health Care
Amy Browning, Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta
Janelle Carillo, Loma Linda University
Aramis Cherrington, Loma Linda University Shared Services
Adela Diaz, Loma Linda University Medical Center
Araceli Mora, Loma Linda University Health Care
Annette Moses, Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta
Johnny Nolfe, Loma Linda University Medical Center
Vivian Perez, Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta
Keturah Reed, Loma Linda University Shared Services
Erin Seheult, Loma Linda University
Robert Trujillo, Loma Linda University Medical Center
Melissa Wright, Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center 

Employee portraits taken at the banquets will soon be available via a banner on the One Portal homepage. Email HumanResourceMgt@llu.edu for more information.

]]>
Thu, 22 Jun 2017 11:31:33 -0700
4264:31128 <![CDATA[New VP VandenBosch joins LLU Medical Center]]> Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Health welcomed a new administrator June 19. Darryl VandenBosch, CPA, is now vice president for adult hospital services at Loma Linda University Medical Center.

VandenBosch came from Dignity Health, where he was president of St. Bernardine Medical Center in San Bernardino. The Southern California native has lived and worked in the Inland Empire for more than 25 years.

During his 18-year tenure at Dignity Health, VandenBosch also served as St. Bernardine’s vice president/CFO, CFO for Community Hospital of San Bernardino, and vice president/CFO for Dignity Health hospitals in Southern California. He also has additional CFO experience in multiple other Southern California hospital facilities. 

VandenBosch graduated magna cum laude from Biola University with his bachelor’s degree in business and accounting, and he is a certified public accountant. He and his wife, Kimberly, live in Redlands with their three young daughters. 

“Darryl’s leadership experience in hospital administration and finance will be a great asset to our operations,” said Lyndon Edwards, MBA, MHS, senior vice president of adult hospital services. “Please join me in welcoming and supporting Darryl in his new role at Loma Linda University Health.”

]]>
Thu, 22 Jun 2017 11:38:00 -0700
4264:31135 <![CDATA[Angela Lalas named nationwide Rising Star]]> By Briana Pastorino For the second year in a row, Loma Linda University Health Senior Vice President of Finance Angela Lalas, MBA, CPA, has been recognized as a “Rising Star in Healthcare” by Becker’s Hospital Review, a leading publication highlighting business, legal news and analysis for the healthcare industry.

The 2017 Rising Star list honored 60 healthcare leaders under 40 years old from across the United States who have achieved greatness in the healthcare field at a young age. Honorees include physicians, hospital and health system executives, and healthcare company innovators.

Loma Linda University Health President Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, said this latest honor bestowed upon Lalas is a testament to her knowledge and ability to handle the financial challenges in the field of healthcare.

“Angela is a true leader who exemplifies excellence, integrity and professionalism in all that she does,” Hart said. “She is a valued asset to this organization, and we are proud of her accomplishments. She is indeed a rising star.”

The Becker's Hospital Review editorial team accepted nominations and conducted an internal review process to select members for this year’s Rising Star list.

“I am humbled with this recognition to be able to represent and honor Loma Linda University Health, especially the outstanding mentors and role models who have supported my professional journey thus far,” Lalas said. “I am a recipient of Loma Linda University Health’s commitment to embracing and nurturing diversity, for which I am most grateful.”

Lalas was previously recognized by Becker’s in 2016 as a “Rising Star” and one of the “150 Hospital and Health System CFOs to Know.”

She has served as senior vice president of finance for Loma Linda University Health since 2015. Lalas oversees financial operations for the six hospitals within the system, including analysis and reporting for Loma Linda University Medical Center and its affiliates. Before taking on her current role, she was vice president of finance for the system.

Lalas earned her MBA from Claremont Graduate University and her undergraduate degree in accountancy from Adventist University of the Philippines. She is also a licensed CPA in California.

]]>
Thu, 22 Jun 2017 11:46:03 -0700
4264:31137 <![CDATA[A shared ethical identity in Adventist healthcare ]]> By Heather Reifsnyder More than 2,300 years after Aristotle wrote in The Nicomachean Ethics “…the good has rightly been declared to be that at which all things aim,” people still can’t always agree on what is good.         

Loma Linda University Health’s commitment to ethical healthcare and education is guided by its distinctive Christian denomination, the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Sharing this heritage are the four other health systems in the United States also affiliated with the Adventist Church.

Now these five systems are pulling together in a consortium to share bioethics resources and expertise, as well as jointly consider some of today’s most urgent issues of ethics in medicine.

Named the Adventist Bioethics Consortium, the venture is coordinated by Gerald Winslow, PhD, director of Loma Linda University Center for Christian Bioethics.

The other members are Adventist Health System, Kettering Health Network, Adventist Health and Adventist HealthCare. This group comprises some 80 hospitals and 130,000 employees across the United States, making it the second-largest faith-based health system in the country.

“We have rich opportunities for collaboration on bioethical challenges facing this country through the lens of Adventist moral and ethical commitments,” Winslow said.

Bioethics, Loma Linda and Baby Fae

It was a bioethical debate that brought Loma Linda University Health to the forefront of the news cycle in 1984, when pioneer surgeon Leonard Bailey, MD, transplanted a baboon heart into a newborn baby girl who came to be known as Baby Fae, trying to save her life.

That same year Loma Linda University Health established its Center for Christian Bioethics, which had been approved by the Board of Trustees in 1983. Initiated by founding director Jack Provonsha, MD, PhD, the center has given particular attention to the integration of religion, medicine and ethics. 

Adventist Bioethics Consortium

The Adventist Bioethics Consortium was inaugurated during the second annual Adventist Bioethics Conference in April, held at Kettering Health Network in Ohio and attended by about 100 representatives of the different systems.

Moving forward with the consortium, the annual Adventist Bioethics Conference will continue. Additionally, the consortium will form interest groups on specific issues such as palliative care for patients who are unable to consent. Other practical helps offered through the consortium will include webinars, self-directed online courses and continuing education seminars (with credit offered by Loma Linda University Health).

The Adventist Bioethics Consortium website, though still in development, offers more information.

Issues in biomedical ethics

Today, key bioethics debates surround topics including physician-assisted suicide, gender dysphoria and stem-cell research.

But for Winslow, the biggest bioethics issue we face comes down to basic human fairness: equal access for all people to quality health care. 

“In Christianity,” he said, “the commitment to protect the most vulnerable members of society is not optional. We must find a sustainable way to provide medical care to everyone, especially those who are least likely to get a fair shake.”

Winslow points to the parable of the sheep and the goats in Matthew 25, in which Jesus describes the life well-lived, going beyond Aristotle’s “good” to “righteous.” Jesus said: “Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.” 

Read the full story about the new Adventist Bioethics Consortium at news.llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 22 Jun 2017 11:48:36 -0700
4264:31130 <![CDATA[Men's health: what you need to know]]> By Esmerelda Guerrero and Heather Reifsnyder Learn about steps men and boys need to take to make their health a priority by watching the Living Whole Wellness Program’s next Wellness Live webinar.

The Wednesday, June 28 livestream, from 5:30–6 p.m., will be presented by Herbert Ruckle, MD, practitioner and professor of urology at Loma Linda University Health. He is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons.

Viewers who missed last month’s live broadcast on travel safety can view it on demand in the Wellness Live Archive, along with numerous other past presentations.

For more information, call 909-651-4007.

myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole/wellnesslive

]]>
Thu, 22 Jun 2017 11:40:03 -0700
4264:31132 <![CDATA[Swim-N-Cinema starts tonight]]> By Larry Kidder Swimming meets hit family movies at Loma Linda University Drayson Center beginning tonight, June 22, with fan favorite Moana. The “Swim-N-Cinema” series will continue every other Thursday evening through Aug. 3.              

Tonight the gates open at 8:05 p.m., and Moana will play at 8:30 p.m. For the remaining movies this summer, gates will open at 8:15 p.m., with the movies starting at 8:30 p.m.                           

The Swim-N-Cinema summer 2017 schedule follows:

• June 22: Moana
July 6: Finding Dory
• July 20: The Lego Batman Movie
• Aug. 3: The Incredibles

Tonight’s showing of Moana is sponsored by Loma Linda Academy, a pre-kindergarten-through-12th-grade school with more than 1,000 students. The academy will host an information table tonight for those interested in finding out more about the award-winning school.

Last year, as many as 800 attended individual Swim-N-Cinema events, including employees, students, family members and the community.

Admittance and amenities

Entrance is free for Drayson Center members and their families, and children may enter with their summer pool passes. Otherwise, the entrance fee for Swim-N-Cinema is $4 per person and includes free popcorn for the first hour. Tickets are available at the membership office in the Drayson Center lobby; online purchasing will soon be offered.

Snacks and beverages will be available in vending machines. Attendees are welcome to bring their own food and beverages — no glass containers — excluding alcoholic beverages. Alcohol and tobacco products are not permitted anywhere on the Loma Linda University Health campus.

Food is not permitted on the pool deck. Coolers may be inspected upon entry. 

Restrooms and changing areas will be available.

Space is limited. Some seating will be provided; however, those attending are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs and/or blankets.

About the Drayson Center

The Drayson Center offerings include exercise classes, aquatics lessons, intramural sports teams, a senior wellness program, personal training, massage therapy and nutrition counseling. 

The facility includes weightlifting and cardio equipment, two swimming pools, a gymnasium, beach volleyball courts, tennis courts, racquetball courts, an outdoor super field, both indoor and outdoor running/walking tracks, and more. 

Find out more on the Drayson Center FAQ page

]]>
Thu, 22 Jun 2017 11:43:02 -0700
4264:31134 <![CDATA['The Encounter' -- Saturdays in July]]> By Heather Reifsnyder Campus Hill Church on the Loma Linda University Health campus invites employees and students to learn about prayer from guest pastor Jonathan Henderson on Saturdays July 1, 8, 15 and 22.

Called “The Encounter,” the series will take place during the 11 a.m. Sabbath service. Henderson, who is chaplain at Pacific Union College, will speak about the following:

July 1: “Prayer and the Person”
July 8: “Prayer and the Place”
July 15: “Prayer and the Purpose”
July 22: “Prayer and Participation” 

The church is located at 11057 Hill Dr., Loma Linda, on the Nichol Hall hill.

---

Jonathan Henderson

]]>
Thu, 22 Jun 2017 11:44:33 -0700
4264:31140 <![CDATA[Making Beautiful Music]]> By Terry Swenson  “Live in harmony with each other. Don’t be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don’t think you know it all!” – Romans 12:16

When I was growing up, it seemed that there was an unwritten parental rule that all children must learn to play a musical instrument. No questions asked. It didn’t matter if you wanted to play a musical instrument. It didn’t matter if you had musical talents or not: you were going to learn to play a musical instrument!

My mother decided that I should learn to play the piano. A teacher was found and lessons were set up. Every week, my teacher came resolutely to my home to create a virtuoso out of the raw clay of my talent. I was never sure if it was my playing capabilities (or definite lack thereof) that caused what happened next or not. Whatever the reason, my piano teacher eloped with her boyfriend and never returned. Thus ended my keyboard career! 

Mom was undaunted. She had a parental epiphany that I was really meant to play a saxophone. What ensued were lessons, playing in the school band and command performances in front of family and friends who were forced to endure them.

Nowadays, my musical ambitions are confined to the top shelf in my garage where my old saxophone case gathers dust and produces a twinge of guilt whenever I happen to notice its presence. Truth be told, I wish I could play piano today. The sax was nice, but it was limited to one note followed by another, but a piano? A piano can play waves of notes in wondrous harmony! That is the marvel of being able to play chords — differing notes that, when played simultaneously, create brilliant sound.

When I read our biblical passage for today, I think that is what Paul, the author, had in mind. Each one of our lives plays a musical note, beautiful in and of itself, but when we join our note with the life-notes of those around us, amazing things can happen. It can’t be forced or faked. If it’s a top-down agenda or a commandment, then the results fare as well as my mom’s musical career plans for me.  No, it has to well up inside of us out of a passion to play and be a part of the group musical experience.

To me, that is Loma Linda University Health at its most powerful. Individuals serving, loving and caring wherever they are working or studying. Adding music and grace to the lives they come in contact with. But connect those lives and their notes together, and Loma Linda University Health becomes a place of harmony. It becomes a beautiful song whose content reflects Jesus, His teaching, His ministry and, best of all, His love. But just wanting to be a musician doesn’t make it happen. It takes time and practice. Repetition builds skill.

So, to, in the music of service and caring we are engaged in. And, let’s be honest, we all have moments and seasons of dissonance in our life journey that break the harmony. Those are the moments that we have to attend to. And, just like my childhood lessons, sometimes it takes a mentor, a friend or a skilled professional to help us get back on track and reach new heights.

Playing alone makes you a soloist. At Loma Linda University Health, all of us unite to play a symphony. A symphonic orchestra is not composed of just one kind of instrument; it is made up of brass, woodwind, strings, percussion and keyboards. That diversity, coupled with harmony, makes the music soar.

Whatever you play, play your part. Join in the music. Without your note, the song is incomplete. You know what? All this talk about music is inspiring me to quit dreaming about playing the piano and start taking those lessons again. It’s going to be challenging, but the best things in life are.

—Terry Swenson, DMin, is chaplain of Loma Linda University.

]]>
Thu, 22 Jun 2017 11:51:50 -0700
4264:31064 <![CDATA[Sweet Revenge?]]> By Kathy McMillan “See that no one pays back evil for evil, but always try to do good to each other and to all people.” –1 Thessalonians 5:15

It’s a scenario that is likely familiar to all of us: a few months ago, I found myself behind a car that was waiting for a scarce parking space at a local shopping center. The car in front of me had its blinker on and had patiently waited as the owners got in and prepared to leave. As the car backed out of the space, another car (newly arrived on the scene) whipped into the empty spot.

Honking, unrepeatable words and flaring tempers ensued almost immediately. It was a frustrating situation, to put it mildly. Even though I wasn’t involved, I felt angry at the driver who had been so rude and impolite. I understood when the driver who had been patiently waiting gave the other man a piece of his mind. And yet, as a Christian, I ponder events such as these. 

Pastor Clarence Schilt said, “We do most of our sinning when we are right.” When someone has treated us badly, we justify ourselves and our responses. Our friends affirm our situation and tell us that they can’t believe how poorly we were treated. And somehow, we convince ourselves that responding with anger or revenge is appropriate.

But the life of Jesus teaches us differently. In the Sermon on the Mount, He instructs us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us (or take our parking space). Following Jesus isn’t about loving those who are already on our friend list. It’s about extending love and grace to those who treat us badly.

Many people assume that because we work in a Christian environment at Loma Linda University Health, we are exempt from these kinds of issues. But sin rears its ugly head everywhere; in fact, the devil probably works harder in a faith-based institution, hoping to discourage those who come here looking for peace.

God’s way is to respond with love. “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12:21) Let’s covenant to ask God to help us respond with love and generosity.

—Kathy McMillan, MA, is director of employee spiritual care at Loma Linda University Medical Center.

]]>
Thu, 15 Jun 2017 10:58:29 -0700
4264:31066 <![CDATA[Free cooking demo for National Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Month]]> By Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Health is celebrating National Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Month by inviting employees and students to watch a chef transform simple, healthy ingredients into mouth-watering dishes.

Chef Tamara Vasquez will feature a Cuban menu and treat the guests to fresh samples as well as recipes to take home.

The cooking demonstration is free and will take place Wednesday, June 21, from 6–7:30 p.m. in the Nichol Hall kitchen. To register, call ext. 14007. Space is limited.

The event is part of a series of cancer-fighting cooking demonstrations brought to employees and students by the Living Whole Wellness Program and Loma Linda University Cancer Center.

Download the flyer below for more information about the series.

]]>
Thu, 15 Jun 2017 11:00:37 -0700
4264:31069 <![CDATA[Reading day camp early-bird price ends June 30]]> By Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University School of Allied Health Professions’ Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders will hold an intensive Phonological Awareness and Literacy Day Camp at Loma Linda Academy from July 17 through July 28.

The program assists incoming kindergarten through third-grade students who have, or at risk for, difficulty with reading and language skills.

“Participants will have fun while focusing on the building blocks of reading: literature awareness, syllable awareness, rhyme awareness, segmenting and blending,” said Jennifer St. Clair, MS, assistant professor and director of clinical education, Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders. 

The early-bird cost is $90 per child for the two-week-long camp if registered by June 30. July 1, the price rises to $100 per child. Register online for the Phonological Awareness and Literacy Day Camp. 

Parents can choose between the morning or afternoon schedule; morning sessions run from 9 a.m. to noon, while afternoon sessions take place from 1–4 p.m. All sessions will be held at Loma Linda Academy.

For more information, e-mail jstclair@llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 15 Jun 2017 11:02:28 -0700
4264:31071 <![CDATA[Funding opportunity for health disparity projects]]> By Heather Reifsnyder The office of U.S. Rep. Pete Aguilar is encouraging Loma Linda University Health investigators to apply for a competitive funding opportunity offered by the Office of Minority Health at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services — the Empowered Communities for a Healthier Nation Initiative.

The initiative aims to reduce health disparities impacting racial and ethnic minorities and/or disadvantaged populations, with a specific intent to serve communities disproportionately impacted by the opioid epidemic, childhood/adolescent obesity and serious mental illness. 

Due by 5 p.m. Eastern time Aug. 1, 2017, applications should demonstrate high-impact plans to implement evidence-based strategies.

For more information about this and other grant opportunities, contact Curt Lewis, a liaison for Aguilar, at 909-890-4445 or Curt.Lewis@mail.house.gov. Aguilar represents the 31st District of California, including the city of Loma Linda.

]]>
Thu, 15 Jun 2017 11:06:30 -0700
4264:31073 <![CDATA[Celebrate our certification as Comprehensive Stroke Center]]> By Nancy Yuen In April, Loma Linda University Medical Center became the first hospital in the Inland Empire to earn The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval and the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s Heart-Check mark for advanced Certification for Comprehensive Stroke Centers. 

To celebrate, all employees are invited to a gathering June 22 in Children’s Hospital rooms 1830/1832 to mark this collaborative achievement. Light refreshments will be served. Please stop by any time from 12 to 2 p.m. 

Vincent V. Truong, MD, director of the Loma Linda University Medical Center Comprehensive Stroke Center 

Remarks will be given at 12:30 p.m. by Lyndon Edwards, MBA, MHS, senior vice president of adult hospital services, and Vincent Truong, MD, director of the Loma Linda University Medical Center Comprehensive Stroke Center.

Discover the story about certification as a Comprehensive Stroke Center on news.llu.edu. 

Additional information on the Stroke Center is available online at lomalindastroke.org or by phone at 909-558-2880.

]]>
Thu, 15 Jun 2017 11:09:12 -0700
4264:31075 <![CDATA[Highlights of June 9-11 commencements]]> By Heather Reifsnyder The weekend of July 9-11 brought a close to commencement season 2017 at Loma Linda University with ceremonies for the Schools of Allied Health Professions, Behavioral Health, Nursing, Public Health and Religion. Read stories and see photos in the following articles on news.llu.edu.                                  

Loma Linda University Schools of Behavioral Health, Religion and Nursing graduate 404 students”

"Loma Linda University Schools of Allied Health Professions and Public Health honor 682 graduates”

Loma Linda University’s other three schools, Dentistry, Medicine and Pharmacy, held their commencement festivities May 26-28.

 

]]>
Thu, 15 Jun 2017 11:13:59 -0700
4264:31077 <![CDATA[Ceremony empowers first graduates of San Manuel Gateway College as 'community faculty']]> Heather Reifsnyder At the site of what was a desolate patch of dirt less than three years ago, 34 students graduated from San Manuel Gateway College on June 7 — the first class to receive a Loma Linda University education in the city limits of San Bernardino. Twelve students received medical assistant certificates, and 22 received certification as community health workers.                                       

San Manuel Gateway College was established to give young people in San Bernardino and the Inland Empire a future beyond high school that also empowers them to serve their under-served community.

Classes for the medical assistant program began in September 2016, just two months after the ribbon-cutting ceremony of its facility, Loma Linda University Health – San Bernardino, which is also home to affordable healthcare provider SAC Health System.

Additionally, in February of this year, the Community Health Worker/Promotores Academy — a partnership between Loma Linda University and El Sol Neighborhood Education Center — moved its home to San Manuel Gateway College, leading to the combined graduation ceremony. 

Commencement speaker Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health, noted that San Manuel Gateway College was built without a blueprint, from scratch, in a world that had never used this educational model before.

A training ground like no other

The unique didactic environment at the San Bernardino campus brings together San Manuel Gateway College entry-level learners with Loma Linda University graduate students and medical residents all training together to gain clinical skills through the SAC clinic — “the laboratory that makes this place go,” as Hart described SAC. 

Joining in a long line of officials eager to shake each graduating medical assistant or community health worker’s hand were Tribal Secretary Ken Ramirez, Chairwoman Lynn Valbuena and Treasurer Sabrina Le Roy from the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. Without the Tribe, the college may not have come to fruition. They gave $10 million to Loma Linda University Health to help bring San Manuel Gateway College into existence. Additional indispensable partners and dreamers in the project are San Bernardino City Unified School District and the city of San Bernardino.

But the evening’s most celebrated stars were the future community health workers and medical assistants.

Neery Velazquez, one of the medical assistant graduates, said that the “Gateway” part of the college’s name aptly describes the way it helps them: opening a passage to opportunities they couldn’t have encountered any other way.

The students, though, took the hard steps of walking through that door. They had to learn how to study, invest in spending all day at school, and learn to work with patients.

All the while, the struggles of real life continued. One graduate, for example, sustained a spine injury during the school year and had to take time off to regain walking. A young woman earned her certificate while also caring for her young daughter and son. 

Filling a gap

Many of the students’ experiences include growing up in tough areas. President Hart said that life has given them scars they will carry with them.

“But scars also strengthen a person,” he told them. “And you all bring strength to what you are doing.”

Their life experience gives the new medical assistants and community health workers the ability to connect with patients from diverse, low-income backgrounds. The graduates can fill a gap in the healthcare continuum that the sick too often fall through, Hart said.

About 50 percent of patients, he explained, leave the doctor’s office and then never follow through with orders, such as taking prescriptions or getting lab tests. These newest graduates of Loma Linda University can help provide the support that enables patients to comply with their care plans, Hart said.

“You are now community faculty of Loma Linda University,” he said.

One of the newly minted community faculty members is Ron Oden, a former mayor of Palm Springs, who received his community health worker certification in order to better equip him for his retirement personal mission: training other community health workers through the Desert Highland Gateway Estates Health and Wellness Committee, which exists to enhance opportunity for members of that historically Black, underserved community in the Coachella Valley.  

Service, Oden said, is what life is really about.

Oden and his 33 fellow graduates acknowledged members of their families and communities who supported them throughout their training at San Manuel Gateway College. During the ceremony, the graduates presented yellow carnations, as well as hugs and loving words, to their friends and family sitting in the audience.

Holding one of those carnations at the reception ceremony was Jaime Velasco, husband of community health worker graduate Adriana Valero. Watching the culmination of her effort, he said, “I actually felt something that I never felt before. … It brought tears to my eyes.”

The emotions spill out

Tears came to many an eye during the ceremony. San Manuel Tribal Secretary Ken Ramirez and Chairwoman Lynn Valbuena, along with Arwyn Wild, MA, executive director of San Manuel Gateway College, acknowledged the emotion of the evening.

“What uplifts me is the fortitude and tenacity of these students,” Wild said. “To see and hear them talk about their dreams is so encouraging.” 

Secretary Ramirez and Chairwoman Valbuena helped usher the dream of the college into existence, seeing it grow from a concept to a construction project to this first graduation.

Ramirez recalled, “We started this dream with the community in mind, to offer an educational component like no other. Teaming up with Loma Linda University has helped us to do that. To see the graduates finish their program today was exciting. The safety net that we’re trying to build in San Bernardino starts with the young people.”

He continued, “As a Tribe, we value giving back to the community. It’s not just about us or the reservation; it’s to build the community as a whole. This is our home, and if anybody is going to be here for thousands of years to come, it will be us and Loma Linda University Health.”

Tribal Chairwoman Valbuena described looking into the eyes of each graduate as she shook their hands to congratulate them.

“They were very, very happy but also serious about their achievements and futures,” she said. “It was so nice to share that moment with them.” 

Many of the graduates said the evening was a beginning, not an ending. All 22 community health workers are staying on at San Manuel Gateway College to gain additional specialization, and the medical assistants expressed plans to gain working experience and take prerequisite courses for further education to become nurses or physical therapists or anything they want.

“We know that this is just the start,” Wild said. “They can do so much more.”

Concluding his commencement address, Hart charged the students: “Now you are health professionals, and let me tell you: we need help — big time. We need help.

“We need to stand shoulder to shoulder, all of us together, to provide that help. So thank you. Congratulations.”

What is next for San Manuel Gateway College

The plans are fast growing for the college’s expansion. Starting this fall are at least two new medical certification programs: nursing assistant and pharmacy technician, as well as the second cohort of medical assistant students. A surgical tech program will begin in January 2018. Additionally, the college’s Community Health Worker/Promotores Academy will continue to expand. Learn more about San Manuel Gateway College

 

 

 

 

]]>
Thu, 15 Jun 2017 11:20:10 -0700
4264:31082 <![CDATA[Fast-Track appointments now available in Primary Care]]> By Heather Reifsnyder Patients seeking healthcare at Loma Linda University Health’s Primary Care have a new option for securing quick appointments when it comes to certain easily treatable conditions.

Fast-Track is intended as an alternative to Urgent Care for simple illnesses or injuries that will not require an X-ray or other ancillary service. These appointments are available Mondays–Thursdays from 9 a.m.–7 p.m. and Fridays from 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

Fast-Track appointments may be made by calling 909-558-6600 between 7:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. Mondays–Thursdays and 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fridays.

Unlike same-day appointments, which may be scheduled with many providers for any need, chronic or acute, Fast-Track is staffed by a designated clinician each day to handle quickly treatable needs. The Fast-Track clinician may be a physician, nurse practitioner or physician assistant. 

“I encourage everyone to establish a relationship with a primary care provider,” said Roger Woodruff, MD, director of Primary Care. “However, occasionally there is a need for a quick visit if you are not feeling well. Already, patients have responded with gratitude for same-day appointments, and it is with the goal of further serving our employees’ same-day needs that we established the Fast-Track clinic.”

The following are examples of simple illnesses or injuries that qualify for Fast-Track service: 

Allergies
Abdominal pain/stomach ache
Asthma
Back pain
Burns, minor only
Cold/cough
Cold sores
Diarrhea/dehydration
Dizziness
Ear pain
Fever
Flu (influenza)
Gout
Headache
Lice
Pink eye
Pregnancy testing
Sinus symptoms
Skin irritations, rashes and infections
Sore throat
Sprains and strains
Sty
Tick exposure
Upper respiratory infection
Urinary tract infection 

Loma Linda University Health Primary Care
909-558-6600
Professional Plaza
25455 Barton Rd., Suite 204B
Loma Linda, 92354

***

Related story:

“Now open: Pediatric Express Care evening and Sunday hours”

 

 

 

 

 

]]>
Thu, 15 Jun 2017 11:24:54 -0700
4264:30918 <![CDATA[Serve and Be Served: a devotional]]> By Dilys Brooks “… but through love serve one another.” –Galatians 5:13

This week marks the seventh anniversary of one of the most life-changing events I’ve ever experienced.

It started out with little fanfare on a Sunday. My husband traveled to Alabama to speak for camp meeting, and I remained at home with our children, ages 4 and 2. I remember feeling unwell that Monday evening, a little weak, and chalked it up to the gradual increase in tiredness from taking care of our little ones. 

That evening when my husband called to check in, I shared that, while I wasn’t feeling well, I felt sure that balanced meals, hydration and rest would soon have me feeling much better. 

By Wednesday, sitting still was my favorite position, because I began to feel lightheaded when standing. Walking around campus became tiring, and I was perplexed that I couldn’t figure out what was happening to me. I shared my symptoms with my coworkers, and they began to scour the Internet and reach out to friends to try and help me solve this mystery. 

By Thursday, I toyed with the idea of going to the Emergency Department, yet talked myself out of it because of the myriad things I needed to do at work and at home. I didn’t have the time to investigate something that I was sure would soon pass. 

That evening, when I took our son to soccer practice, I accepted the help of a student who observed that I needed some assistance getting all the paraphernalia we needed across the field. A few minutes after arriving at our practice area, one of the moms scolded me for not asking for support by carpooling the kids, since she knew that my husband was out of town. Without hesitation, I made the decision to take her up on the offer and returned home. On the way, I reached out to a few friends to come over and aid me with the children, so that I could go to bed. The next 36 hours were filled with a flurry of activities as my community responded with love, care, confrontation and support. 

As individuals who work in the caring professions, we are well acquainted with the joy and perhaps sense of purpose we receive when we serve others. Paul wrote to the church in Galatia, encouraging them to remember that they are called to live in the freedom that comes from Jesus. This liberty should be celebrated and shown in the decision to serve one another.

Why then is it so difficult for us to be on the receiving end of service?

Perhaps our unwillingness to be served by others is linked to our need to do for ourselves. But our ability to receive from others should be informed by God’s generous gift of salvation through Jesus. Our experience with this gift, Paul states, should transform us into loving our neighbors as we love ourselves.

My three friends all arrived at my house around the same time. One of them told me — above my strident protests — that I had to go to the Emergency Department. The others made arrangements for our children and contacted my husband. I spent 24 hours at Loma Linda University Medical Center, where I received loving care from the medical staff as well as a pacemaker. I’m alive today because of their willingness to serve me and my willingness, finally, to accept their care.

Whom do you need to confront this week about taking care of themselves? Or will you take some time to make that appointment to check out the discomfort you’ve been feeling? Is there anyone you have observed who may be in need of prayer, a hug or a listening ear?

We each play an integral part in the mission of Loma Linda University Health. Let us remember to serve and be served by one another.

—Dilys Brooks, MDiv, is associate campus chaplain for Loma Linda University.

 

]]>
Thu, 08 Jun 2017 11:26:18 -0700
4264:30922 <![CDATA[University employees benefited by fair]]> By Dianna Montgomery and Heather Reifsnyder The annual Loma Linda University Employee Benefits Fair allowed faculty and staff to learn more about the many benefits and services available to them, and it sent one employee, Josue Palma from LLU Catering, home with the day’s grand prize: a basket filled with beach necessities and $500 in Visa gift cards. 

During the May 2 event, booths sponsored by both internal services and external vendors highlighted financial wellness, healthy living, retirement, health benefits and more. In addition to information, some exhibitors offered product samples and discount coupons.

Human Resource Management, which hosts the fair, makes it fun by incentivizing faculty and staff to visit the various booths, where they earn stamps in addition to knowledge. Upon completing their stamp cards, employees submit them to a drawing.

Beyond the grand prize claimed by Palma, other prizes included gifts donated by the vendors (valued at $50 or more) as well as assorted restaurant and retail gift cards ($50 value).

Employee Benefits Fairs for LLU Medical Center, Children’s Hospital, Behavioral Medicine Center, Surgical Hospital, East Campus, Health Care and Shared Services, are scheduled for Oct. 31 through Nov. 2, 2017. LLU Medical Center – Murrieta’s fair will take place in the fourth quarter of 2017.

Stay tuned for details as those dates approach. 

For more information, contact Dianna Montgomery at dmontgomery@llu.edu or call ext. 14050.

 

 

 

]]>
Thu, 08 Jun 2017 11:38:46 -0700
4264:30921 <![CDATA[Employees recognized: a video]]> By Advancement Films ]]> June is the season of Employee Recognition Banquets at Loma Linda University Health, honoring employees celebrating milestone work anniversaries. In this video being shown at the banquets, several employees share what working at Loma Linda University Health means to them.

]]>
Thu, 08 Jun 2017 11:33:44 -0700
4264:30924 <![CDATA[For all other entities, except university and Murrieta: Wholeness Health Plan requirements ]]> By Esmerelda Guerrero and Heather Reifsnyder To remain or enroll in the Wholeness Health Plan for 2018 without a surcharge, employees of all entities at Loma Linda University Health except the university and Murrieta campus must complete specific requirements by the Sept. 1, 2017, deadline.

The Wholeness Health Plan offers the most coverage for the least cost. This year Loma Linda University Health is emphasizing personal wellness through an A-B-C process required of all employees and their covered spouses under the Wholeness Health Plan.

The ABCs of the Wholeness Health Plan

A: Assessment and account
Complete a new health risk assessment and ensure an activated MyChart account.

B: Biometric screening
Complete a new biometric screening at one of the many locations on campus. 

C: Care management
Employees or covered spouses who are sent a letter of invitation for care management will need to complete the entire program or a series of appointments/activities by the Sept. 1, 2017, deadline.

Learn more about the Wholeness Health Plan requirements.

How to complete the steps

The three downloadable documents below this story provide in-depth information about the process. Read carefully to ensure a smooth experience. They are:

• An explanation of the requirements with frequently asked questions (FAQ)
• A Quick Guide with step-by-step instructions
• A health plan comparison for 2017

The time is now

To ensure a convenient time, it is best to make the biometric screening appointment as soon as possible; 2,300 slots have already been taken. 

]]>
Thu, 08 Jun 2017 11:45:21 -0700
4264:30929 <![CDATA[For Murrieta employees: biometric screening]]> Heather Reifsnyder The employee health plan at LLU Medical Center – Murrieta is separate from that of the other entities composing Loma Linda University Health. However, the Murrieta campus is also conducting biometric screening this summer for employees and covered spouses.

Administered by Adventist Health, the most comprehensive yet low-cost health plan for Murrieta employees is the Engaged! Premier Program. See all the health plan choices.

Employees and spouses who wish to join or stay in the Engaged! Premier Program must complete biometric screening between June 15 and Sept. 30, 2017.

The requirement is all about discovering individual health status and potential risk for chronic — and often preventable — diseases. Combined with the wellness assessment, the screening helps employees identify actions to improve their health.

The free screening will be offered at several dates and times on the Murrieta campus:

Thursday, June 15: 11 a.m.–3 p.m. and 4–8 p.m.
Friday, June 16: 7–11 a.m. and noon–3 p.m.
Tuesday, July 18: 6–10 a.m. and 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
Monday, Aug. 7: 11 a.m.–3 p.m. and 4–8 p.m.
Wednesday, Aug. 9: 6–10 a.m. and 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

Employees should register for the biometric screening ASAP to ensure a date and time that works for them. Log in with the username “adventist” and password “healthy.”

If the above dates are missed, employees will have to complete the screening at another participating Adventist Health location. See the schedule for other locations. Alternatively, they may complete the screening at a physician’s office or a LabCorp location, but prior approval and extra forms are required by the Benefits Department for this option. Those who complete screenings offsite should do so at least three weeks before the Sept. 30 deadline to allow time for the results to be received. 

Employees and spouses enrolled in the Engaged! Plan without Premier Program participation or in the Base Plan are encouraged to participate in biometric screen, as well, but are not required to do so.

Download the flyers below for more information, and for additional questions, call Daisy Banuelos at Murrieta ext. 1337 or email MurrietaBenefits@llu.edu

 

]]>
Thu, 08 Jun 2017 11:50:16 -0700
4264:30919 <![CDATA[Revamping the patient experience: everyone has a part to play]]> Heather Reifsnyder Talk about “Patient Experience” will increase at Loma Linda University Health — a lot. But it won’t be all talk.

Expect action in which every employee has a part in ensuring the safest, highest-quality care — care that is patient-centered and mission-focused, according to Jennifer McDonald, executive director of patient experience.

“All of us, whether directly or indirectly involved in clinical care, have a role to play in ensuring compassionate, Christ-focused service in our hospitals and clinics,” she said. 

To create traction, a conference held June 1 at Centennial Complex kicked off the conversation, attended by 300 key stakeholders across campus. These summits will be held quarterly, during which leaders from across the organization will engage in discussion of implementing best practices through the lens of whole person care. 

The first changes are rolling out immediately, many of which are based on the recognition that improving patient care necessarily includes making sure employees feel valued and listened to.

Tools have been posted on a new, dedicated Patient Experience page on One Portal. Several documents are already there regarding first steps, with more materials to come, including an FAQ section to assist leaders with any questions they may have.

All employees will go through a required two-hour training to begin this cultural transformation. The trainings will go live in July with a train-the-trainer approach and then system-wide beginning in August. 

Leader rounding for employee satisfaction

Team leaders (those authorized with hiring/firing duties) will now keep their calendars clear each Tuesday from 2-3 p.m. to round with their staff — talking with five or more of their employees each week. 

These rounds are not punitive but rather the opposite: this type of interaction is the single best way to raise employee and physician satisfaction, according to McDonald.

As they make these rounds, department leaders will employ the CONNECT-GRETE conversational script for establishing interpersonal connection, which was developed by LLU Center for Spiritual Life and Wholeness. (GRETE is part of the “Connect” step of the CLEAR Whole Person Care model). Employees will then be able to incorporate the discussion model with patients and coworkers. 

Briefly, GRETE can be summarized as:

Greet with kindness
Recognize and introduce
Explain purpose
Time: provide timeframe
Engage and invite a response

A guide to the full meaning of GRETE, along with documents that managers must fill out when rounding with their employees, is available on the One Portal’s Patient Experience page.

Stop and shine a light

Also found on that page is the new “Leader Stoplight Report” that managers will be required to complete monthly and share with their direct reports and their own supervisor.

“The Stoplight Reports will create transparency and accountability,” McDonald said, “ensuring that employees have the resources they need to do their jobs and provide top patient care.”

On the reports, team leaders will document employee suggestions and requests made during the Tuesday rounds. Such items will remain on the reports until they are resolved or put on hold with documented reasoning.

Patient knowledge = patient power

Also rolling out immediately institution-wide will be a new and improved inpatient discharge folder — both better designed and more informative.

The packets will help soon-to-be-discharged patients who are going home to fully understand the treatments they received, the status of their health, and how to care for themselves going forward. 

Phone calls to newly discharged patients will come soon.

To better inform patients during their hospital stays, a standardized Patient Care Board is being piloted on one unit at each of the six Loma Linda hospitals. 

Placed at each bedside, the boards will give every patient a thorough understanding of his or her health condition and care plan, including procedures and tests needed — and why.

“Our patients must be informed and educated throughout every stage of their care,” McDonald said.

What is Patient Experience?

McDonald said that a positive patient experience comes down to how caregivers make their patients feel — listened to, prioritized, cared for.

“Exceeding patient expectations will be the result of this system-approach to whole person care as we increase accountability and employee satisfaction,” she said.

Time, effort and a learning curve will be required in order to make new processes habitual and routine, but all the steps being taken will connect directly to capably fulfilling Loma Linda University Health’s mission to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ.

McDonald and Lyndon Edwards, MBA, MHS, senior vice president for adult services at LLU Medical Center, note that this is not a one-off project. It is an aligned, accountable, mission-driven system-approach to providing healthcare.

Edwards said, “We are entering an unending cultural transformation in which we will always strive to improve the patient experience and better learn to follow Jesus Christ’s example of compassionate service. We will become the best place to work and practice medicine, offering the highest-quality, safest healthcare to change our patients’ lives.”

]]>
Thu, 08 Jun 2017 11:29:40 -0700
4264:30916 <![CDATA[Notes from the President -- Traditions]]> Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   June 2017
Traditions

“Richard

Graduations are always bittersweet events.  With academic programs lasting from 1 to 4+ years, deep bonds develop between faculty, staff, and students.  What we call the “Loma Linda Experience” is often hard to leave behind. And while there are always a few students that get featured at events, most impressive are the many who have mastered all the requirements and are now ready to move out to conquer the world. 

Loma Linda does graduations well.  With multiple programs over several weeks, we recognize graduates' accomplishments, whether academic, research, leadership, or marriages and kids, from each of our eight schools.  The four combined baccalaureate programs are all in the University Church, a building that has become special to our students over the years.  Commencements start outside under our special tent structure on the first weekend for our Schools of Medicine, Pharmacy, and Dentistry

“01_medschooljpg.jpg”

But by two weeks later, for our second graduation weekend, the heat drives us inside to the Drayson Center for our other five schools – Allied Health Professions, Public Health, Behavioral Health, Nursing, and Religion. 

We have 1,476 graduating this year, a few with two degrees, and 83 with certificates of some kind.  There are 78 finishing with an AS degree and 291 with a bachelor’s of science degree, primarily in nursing, dental hygiene and some of the allied health programs.  We have 13 different master’s degrees with 453 graduates this year.  And finally, there are 571 graduating with doctoral degrees.  There are 11 different doctoral programs at Loma Linda University, with the three biggest being medicine, dentistry, and physical therapy. 

One of our graduations that I am especially proud of this year is not on campus at all, at least not on the Loma Linda campus.  It is the first graduation at our San Bernardino Campus, celebrating 35 young people who are graduating from our San Manuel Gateway College.  Twelve of these are from our first academic program, Medical Assistant, with another 23 who finished a basic program as Community Health Workers, or Promotores.  I wish I could tell you the stories of all the hardships and challenges these young people have overcome to get to this point.  Often carrying huge family, social, and financial burdens, they have persisted against all odds. 

“01_sanmanuel.jpg”

So as they received their diplomas June 7 in their specially ordered academic regalia, there were both tears and joy, pride and concern, as they now move out to conquer the world with their newly developed skills.  As Arwyn Wild, Executive Director of the College, often says, the biggest challenge is teaching the “soft skills” of self-confidence and social ease.  To have each one shake hands firmly and look you in the eye with new hope and expectation is a reward indeed.

One of my biggest regrets as I have been pulled deeper and deeper into administration is that I have less time to personally get acquainted with our students.  To counter that a bit, I am going on my first SIMS trip in many years with a group of 40 students, faculty, and alumni to Jengre Hospital in northern Nigeria.  From June 15 to 23 we will run clinics, treat the Fulani tribe’s cattle and goats, finish construction of a private ward, conduct Vacation Bible Schools, hold hospital board meetings, and enjoy fellowship with over 160 local colleagues who will be working with us.  We expect to revitalize this rural hospital started by Dr. Sherman Nagel (School of Medicine Class of 1940) in 1947.  It anchors this community in a part of Nigeria that bridges both Christian and Muslim communities.  But equally important, we will be creating “teachable moments” for our faculty and students by confronting real human need and searching deep in our own souls for how best to respond.

As I wrote this, I was on my way back from a quick trip to Haiti.  We spent a day with a small group of our graduates and their local colleagues brainstorming on how to strengthen our little hospital in a country awash in poverty and challenges.  The issues are complex and involve people, culture, money and inertia to change.  But the spirit is strong and progress is being made.  As is their custom, we gathered together Friday evening in one of our staff’s humble homes and sang together to the strumming of several guitars.  The spirit of mission and commitment among alumni like this, literally around the world, always moves me to gratitude and the utmost respect.  They are Loma Linda in action - Loma Linda at its best. 

Cordially yours,

“Richard

 

 

 

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President, Loma Linda University Health

P.S. To learn more about how we are strengthening our programs to educate health professionals who are deeply committed to compassionate care and focused on treating the whole person, please visit the Vision 2020 website.

]]>
Thu, 08 Jun 2017 11:07:06 -0700
4264:30873 <![CDATA[Protecting babies' brains]]> By Advancement Films ]]> The Neuro Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital treats babies who have, or are at risk for, neurological injury. This video profile of the department was shown at the 20th anniversary gala held May 18 for Riverside Community Health Foundation. Since 2005, the foundation has funded projects at LLU Children’s Hospital, with the Neuro NICU as its signature project.

]]>
Thu, 01 Jun 2017 10:56:28 -0700
4264:30877 <![CDATA[Drayson Center offers summer sports camps for kids]]> By Larry Kidder For many parents, it doesn’t take long to hear the words “I’m bored” just a few days after school ends. All of the excitement of the end of the school year can quickly vanish for kids. 

That’s where Loma Linda University Drayson Center can help. Summer sports camps are the perfect way to keep kids busy during the day and sleeping well at night. Drayson Center will host four sport camps this summer, in addition to its summer swim programs.

“Keeping your kids active this summer is a major priority at Drayson Center,” said Donald Sease, MBA, director. “We welcome the chance to offer them great experiences.” 

LA Galaxy Soccer Camp

The LA Galaxy, Los Angeles’ major league soccer team, will hold a soccer camp at Drayson Center, June 12-16, for boys and girls ages 6 to 16. The camp will go from 8 a.m. to noon and will include coaching by LA Galaxy coaches, a sackpack and water bottle with logos, as well as T-shirts, a certificate of completion and a ticket to a Galaxy home match. 

Engineering with Lego Camps

Lego blocks will dominate the following week, as well as two weeks in July.

During the week of June 19-23, children ages 5-6 will enjoy “Mine, Craft, Build Adventure Game with Lego Materials” from 9 a.m. to noon. Children ages 7-12 will take part in “Mine, Craft, Build Survival Game with Lego Materials” from 1-4 p.m.

July 17-21, children ages 5-6 will master “Jedi Engineering with Lego Materials” from 9 a.m. to noon, while children ages 7-12 will work on “Jedi Masters Engineering with Lego Materials” from 1-4 p.m. 

A third week of Legos will take place July 24-28. Children ages 5-6 will learn “Ninjago Engineering with Lego Materials” from 9 a.m. to noon, while the older children ages 7-12 will experience “Ninjago Masters Engineering with Lego Materials” from 1-4 p.m.

Sportball Multi-sport Camp

Children ages 4.5-9 will want to keep their ball skills for various sports sharp over the summer. The Sportball Multi-sport Camp, July 24-28, will refine, rehearse and repeat with plenty of skill-focused play, creative exploration and fun.

LA Clippers Basketball Camp

From July 31 to August 4, coaches from the LA Clippers will be on hand to work with children ages 6-14 at all skill levels. The youth basketball camp will be held from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day. Participants will receive an LA Clippers jersey and more.

Summer swim lessons

Group and individual swim lessons will continue during the summer months. Keep your children water-safe while helping them increase their fitness and skills in the pool.

Learn more and register your kids for Drayson summer camps. Space is limited, so sign up soon. Keep your children busy and active.

]]>
Thu, 01 Jun 2017 11:01:45 -0700
4264:30875 <![CDATA[Highlights of May 26-28 commencements]]> By Heather Reifsnyder The laughter, tears, pomp and circumstance of commencement ceremonies took place May 26-28 for the Schools of Dentistry, Pharmacy and Medicine at Loma Linda University.

Read stories and see photos in the following articles on news.llu.edu.

“School of Pharmacy graduates 82 students”

“School of Medicine’s class of 2017 includes 11,000th graduate in school’s history”

“Loma Linda University School of Dentistry sends the class of 2017 into the world”

The weekend of June 9-11 will see commencement ceremonies for the Schools of Allied Health Professions, Behavioral Health, Nursing, Public Health and Religion at Loma Linda University. Learn more on the commencement homepage.

]]>
Thu, 01 Jun 2017 10:58:26 -0700
4264:30869 <![CDATA[ The Best Gift -- a devotional]]> By Terry Swenson God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another. –1 Peter 4:10

Take a moment and answer the following question: What is the greatest gift you ever received?

What answer did you come up with? Was it a large monetary gift? Was it a brand new car? Maybe it was a new house!

I’m going to go out on a limb and say that, for many if not most of you, it wasn’t any of those things. Aren’t the greatest gifts we receive the ones that were given with love from someone?

If you invited me into your kitchen at your house, I bet in many of them I’d find art “masterpieces” crafted by children that you wouldn’t trade for all the Picassos or Renoirs in the world. In your offices or bedrooms or living rooms would be photos of loved ones that are among the first things you’d grab if your place were on fire. Perhaps the greatest gift is found in a card, note or letter that changed your heart and your life by the words inscribed within. 

Gifts given from the heart that reveal and reflect the love of the giver are transformational.

Here’s another question: What are the greatest gifts that reside inside of you? Don’t answer that one too quickly because you might just answer wrongly. Far too many of us devalue ourselves and our talents and gifts. Sometimes we don’t realize we have them because they either come so naturally to us or because someone has spoken damaging words that make us hide them deep within. Your gift could be singing or playing music — I’d love to have these but that’s not reality. Your gift could be a healing touch or understanding of science, physiology, etc. Your gift could be efficiency, leadership, stewardship. You could have the gift of loving or making people feel important and at ease. 

But the greatest gifts that all of us have and all of us can give are these: our love and our presence with those around us.

The scriptural passage above tells us that God gave all of us gifts. And He asks all of us to share them with each other. But what He is asking of us, He modeled for us. God gave us the greatest gift He had — Jesus. Jesus gave us the greatest gift He had — His loving presence and His life given in love for us.

For all of us at Loma Linda University Health, no matter our position, job or school, we have claimed and proclaimed that our mission is to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ. To do that, we need to realize and receive His gift and example of love expressed through service. When our hearts and minds are filled with His love, we are ready to share our gifts. 

—Terry Swenson, DMin, is chaplain for Loma Linda University.

 

]]>
Thu, 01 Jun 2017 10:53:34 -0700
4264:30805 <![CDATA[Love in Action -- a devotional]]> By Kathy McMillan “Make your love increase and overflow for each other.” –1 Thessalonians 3:12 

This past weekend, I travelled to Tennessee for the funeral of our dear friends’ son. He was a young adult who lived life to the fullest and had a winsome way of engaging others.

The most remarkable part of the weekend was seeing how people showed up. Nearly 200 friends from all over the world traveled thousands of miles to show their love for this grieving family.

It reminded me of a story I read about a reporter who was driving along the Blue Ridge Parkway in the middle of a storm. He was struck by the beautiful tree branches, bowing low under the weight of the heavy snow. As he drove through a clearing, he noticed to his dismay that the branches of the trees in the clearing had broken. The snow had been too heavy for these trees and their limbs now lay distorted on the ground or hanging by a thread from the trunk. He continued on, and once again saw a heavily wooded area with the tree branches intact. 

He realized that when the trees were close together, the branches intertwined and the trees were able to support each other. But facing the elements alone, a single tree was no match for the weather.

When we go through difficult times, we need the support of others to help minimize the damage. The apostle Paul says that our love should overflow for each other. We are called to find ways to come alongside those who are in crisis to love and support them through the difficult times. This means more than simply sending a card that says, “Let me know if there’s anything I can do to help.” 

Love and support is often most helpful when it’s practical. Here are some specific ways you can love someone going through a difficult time:

  • Take them a meal
  • Wash their car
  • Clean their house or offer to hire a cleaning service
  • Sit with them (words aren’t necessary)
  • Run errands
  • Email or text a scripture verse or encouraging quote — along with a message giving them permission to not respond
  • Remember significant days — anniversaries, birthdays — by making a note on your calendar

When we respond in these ways, we come alongside others, spreading our “branches” of love to help them in their brokenness. This week let us be alert for opportunities to support and encourage each other.

—Kathy McMillan, MA, is director of employee spiritual care at Loma Linda University Medical Center.

]]>
Thu, 25 May 2017 09:35:52 -0700
4264:30807 <![CDATA[Watch this before embarking on summer vacations]]> By Esmerelda Guerrero and Heather Reifsnyder People often live for their vacations: a chance to steal away, relax and experience new vistas.

Loma Linda University Health understands the importance of those getaways for a balanced, whole life and wants to ensure its employees and students are protected from travel dangers (both back at home and at their destination).

Vacationing safely is the focus of the next Wellness Live free webinar presented by the Living Whole Wellness Program at Loma Linda University Health.

The presentation will take place May 31, live online, from 5:30–6 p.m. Addressing the topic will be Ehren Ngo, MS, EMT-P, emergency operations manager at Loma Linda University Health.

Join us to learn about travel safety and security so you can truly relax when you take that next trip,” Ngo said.

For more information, call 909-651-4007.

Viewers who missed last month’s live broadcast on autism can view it on demand in the Wellness Live Archive, along with numerous other past presentations.

]]>
Thu, 25 May 2017 09:38:12 -0700
4264:30810 <![CDATA[First commencement weekend starts Friday]]> Heather Reifsnyder As News of the Week reported last week, commencement ceremonies for Loma Linda University’s eight schools are held across two weekends, May 26-28 and June 9-11.

That means the celebrations begin this Friday for the Schools of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmacy. Here is a breakdown of this first weekend’s events.

School of Pharmacy

• Hooding ceremony: Friday, May 26, at 7 p.m., Wong Kerlee International Conference Center

• Baccalaureate service (combined with School of Medicine): Saturday, May 27, at 9 a.m., Loma Linda University Church                                                                        

• Conferring of degrees: Sunday, May 28, at 1:30 p.m. on the University Mall with speaker Mary Ann Kliethermes, PharmD

School of Medicine

• Basic sciences consecration and hooding ceremony: Friday, May 26, at 3 p.m., Damazo Amphitheater in the Centennial Complex

• Physician consecration and hooding ceremony: Friday, May 26, at 7 p.m., Loma Linda University Church

• Baccalaureate service (combined with School of Pharmacy): Saturday, May 27, at 9 a.m., Loma Linda University Church

• Conferring of degrees: Sunday, May 28, at 8:30 a.m. on the University Mall with speaker Amy Hayton, MD, MPH

School of Dentistry

• Dental hygiene pinning ceremony: Friday, May 26, at 6 p.m., Campus Hill Church

• Baccalaureate service: Saturday, May 27, at 11:45 a.m., Loma Linda University Church

• Conferring of degrees: Sunday, May 28, at 5 p.m. on the University Mall with speaker Jim Wood, DDS, California Assembly member for District Two.

Loma Linda University’s other five schools — Religion, Public Health, Nursing, Behavioral Health and Allied Health Professions — will hold their celebrations June 9–11.

For full details on both weekends, visit the commencement homepage.

Or, for on-the-go commencement information, download the "LLUH Mobile” app from Apple or Google Play.

]]>
Thu, 25 May 2017 09:44:39 -0700
4264:30812 <![CDATA[Eating beans to reduce gas: LLU research]]> By James Ponder The key to reducing harmful greenhouse gases in the short term is more likely to be found on the dinner plate than at the gas pump, said a team of researchers from four American universities.

 Headed by Loma Linda University researcher Helen Harwatt, PhD, the team suggests that one simple change in American eating habits would have a large impact on the environment: if Americans would eat beans instead of beef, the United States would immediately realize approximately 50 to 75 percent of its greenhouse-gas reduction targets for the year 2020. (Scroll down for healthy and tasty bean recipes from Loma Linda University Health.)

Beef cattle are the most greenhouse-gas intensive food to produce. The production of legumes (beans, peas, etc.) results in one-fortieth the amount of greenhouse gases as beef, according to the researchers — who hail from Loma Linda University School of Public Health, Oregon State University Department of Forest Ecosystems and Society, Bard College Physics Program and the Harvard Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study.

“Given the novelty, we would expect that the study will be useful in demonstrating just how much of an impact changes in food production can make, and increase the utility of such options in climate-change policy,” Harwatt said. 

In a 10-page paper released on May 12, Harwatt and her colleagues noted that dietary alteration for climate change mitigation is currently a hot topic among policymakers, academics and members of society at large. The paper, “Substituting beans for beef as a contribution towards U.S. climate change targets,” is available online.

In addition to reducing greenhouse gas, Harwatt and her team — which included Joan Sabate, MD, DrPH; Gidon Eshel, PhD; the late Sam Soret, PhD; and William Ripple, PhD — concluded that shifting from animal-sourced to plant-sourced foods could help avert global temperature rise.

Sabate, who serves as executive director of the Center for Nutrition, Healthy Lifestyle and Disease Prevention at Loma Linda University School of Public Health, said the findings are substantial.

“The nation could achieve more than half of its greenhouse gas reduction goals without imposing any new standards on automobiles or manufacturing,” Sabate said.

Climate shift

Two recent studies, the first conducted by global think tank Chatham House and the second by the British government, suggest the public is open to making the switch.

The Chatham House study surveyed more than 12,000 people in 12 different countries, including the United States, and found that among those aware of the climate impact of meat consumption, 44 percent were likely to reduce their intake of meat, and 15 percent said they had already done so. The British government found even greater support for the idea. Of 3,000 participants surveyed, more than 85 percent said they either will change, or will seriously consider changing, their eating habits to improve the health of the planet. Another 53 percent said they were willing to give up red meat.

Harwatt is convinced a shift from animal to plant-based foods will become necessary as population growth increasingly puts pressure on already strained resources. The United Nations’ Department of Economic and Social Affairs predicts the world’s population will swell to between 9 and 11 billion people by 2100. 

The study, which was conducted while Harwatt was an environmental nutrition research fellow at Loma Linda University, also found that beef production is an inefficient use of agricultural land. Substituting beans for beef would free up 42 percent of U.S. cropland currently under cultivation — a total of 1.65 million square kilometers or more than 400 million square acres, which is approximately 1.6 times the size of the state of California. 

A native of Great Britain who works with nongovernmental organizations on sustainable food and planetary health issues, Harwatt says a 2006 report from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations on the environmental impacts of livestock heightened her interest in the topic.

“As an environmental social scientist looking for solutions to our major environmental problems, the idea of changing our diets as a pro-environmental behavior really appealed to me,” she said. 

Harwatt applauds the fact that more than a third of American consumers are currently purchasing meat analogs: plant-based products that resemble animal foods in taste and texture. She says the trend suggests that animal-sourced meat is no longer a necessity.

“Given the scale of greenhouse gas reductions needed to avoid the worst impacts of climate change, are we prepared to eat beef analogs that look and taste like beef, but have a much lower climate impact?” she asks. “It looks like we’ll need to do this. The scale of the reductions in greenhouse gas emissions needed doesn’t allow us the luxury of ‘business as usual’ eating patterns.”

Bean recipes from Loma Linda University Health

Search recipes provided by the Living Whole Wellness Program, where you’ll find enticing options such as lentil tacos or New Orleans red beans with rice. 

Additionally, some episodes of Live It in the Kitchen feature recipes starring beans, including white bean chili and the best bean burger.

 

]]>
Thu, 25 May 2017 09:51:15 -0700
4264:30814 <![CDATA[Osteoporosis: 6 ways to fight back]]> By Nancy Yuen Osteoporosis is a systemic bone disease that one in five women over 50 years old will develop. While its progression is painless, osteoporosis may result in bone fractures, changes in a person’s height, abdominal pain and difficulty breathing.

Endocrinology specialist Silvana Giannelli, MD, says osteoporosis is characterized by compromised bone strength that predisposes one to broken bones. Bone fractures tend to occur in this order: wrist, spine and then hip, she says.

While more women in the United States will experience hip fractures than those who experience a heart attack, stroke or breast cancer combined, it is possible to fight back.

Giannelli, an associate professor at the School of Medicine at Loma Linda University, delivered a presentation earlier this month on osteoporosis at the Loma Linda University Health Women’s Conference at the Riverside Convention Center. Here are six of her top recommendations: 

Enjoy a healthy diet. Because low body weight is a risk factor for osteoporosis, it is important to maintain a healthy weight. A bonus tip: while it is important to eat a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, “Beware taking too much calcium as it can cause kidney stones,” Giannelli said.

Exercise. Movement and weight-bearing activity helps a person’s bones grow stronger. To increase bone strength, participate in gentle weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercise such as walking, dancing or lifting light weights several times a week.

Know your risk factors. Osteoporosis risk factors include age, low body weight, previous fractures and the use of cigarettes and alcohol. Some medications prescribed for common health issues, such as steroids, can also lead to osteoporosis.

Get checked. A bone mineral density test is used to diagnose one’s bone health; it measures bone density at the hip and spine and can also be used to see if ongoing treatment is making the bones stronger. Dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) equipment is used during the diagnosis. Due to variations in DXA units, Giannelli urges participants to have follow-up scans taken by the same unit and if possible, performed by the same technician. A bonus tip: portable units called bone densitometers are used to measure the bone mineral density in a person’s heel. While they are often used at health fairs, Giannelli said that the results they measure cannot be used to diagnose osteoporosis.

Take steps to prevent fractures. Many fractures are caused when a person with osteoporosis slips, trips and falls. Removing clutter and throw rugs from the home will help prevent falls and will in turn help prevent fractures, which cause as many as 65,000 deaths in the United States each year.

Learn about medications from your doctor. Candidates for prescription medications include patients with osteoporosis, those who have experienced a fragility fracture and those with osteopenia (reduced bone mass less severe than osteoporosis) who also have an unacceptable high risk of fracture. FDA-approved medications for osteoporosis include selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMS), bisphosphonates, Prolia, Forteo, calcitonin and hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

Though osteoporosis is common and progresses silently, learning about what causes it, available treatments and how to prevent broken bones will help save lives.

]]>
Thu, 25 May 2017 09:54:52 -0700
4264:30817 <![CDATA[Video views of the final Big Pour]]> By Advancement Films A milestone in the construction of Loma Linda University Health’s new hospital complex was reached Sunday, May 21, when workers finished the final concrete pour — the third of three — for the foundation.

The two videos below show different experiences of the overnight event, which began Saturday night, May 20.

The first video chronicles close-up scenes of the concrete-pouring process, including the end product shining in the sun.

It also includes fun facts that give an idea of just how much concrete it took to build the four-foot-thick foundation. What does 16,750 cubic yards equate to? Find out by watching.

The second video allows viewers to rotate the camera view 360°, offering a sense of the whole scene. (Make sure you are using a supported browser for this experience.)

The new hospital building will open in 2020.

]]>
Thu, 25 May 2017 09:57:50 -0700
4264:30818 <![CDATA[Introducing: Neuropathic Therapy Center]]> By Larry Becker and Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Health’s new Neuropathic Therapy Center will host an open house at the Tom and Vi Zapara Rehabilitation Pavilion (adjacent to LLU Medical Center East Campus), on Tuesday, May 30, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tours of the new center will be available.

Remarks will take place at 12:30 p.m.

The Neuropathic Therapy Center is home to an innovative, drug-free, surgery-free treatment program for people suffering from peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage) caused by chemotherapy, diabetes or other causes.

Debilitating symptoms of the condition include weakness, pain and numbness, typically in the feet or hands. 

Clinic director Mark Bussell, DPT, and his team will utilize a treatment he created called intraneural facilitation™. This evidence-based therapy utilizes physical-therapy-based holds to stretch nerve areas and deliver blood supply to damaged nerves. Many people report improvement after the first treatment.

“To have the opportunity to work at Loma Linda University Health and work with the patients here has been a real blessing,” Bussell said. “It has been an exciting journey. I can’t wait to share Loma Linda’s mission with more patients who will benefit from what intraneural facilitation has provided for many hundreds of patients.” 

Patient Frank Garcia credits Bussell with turning his life around.

“Being in a wheelchair for two years, I had little hope of any recovery,” Garcia said. “After working with Mark and his team, the word hope has a new meaning for me! The Lord has truly blessed me.” See more testimonials.

Loma Linda University Health is the only place where this type of treatment is available. 

The center is located at 25333 Barton Rd. in Loma Linda. Much more information about the Neuropathic Therapy Center is available on its website or by calling 909-825-8601.

]]>
Thu, 25 May 2017 10:01:47 -0700
4264:30725 <![CDATA[Nightingale's legacy, lasting words: a devotional]]> Jan Kroetz This essay is adapted from a devotional shared by Chief Nursing Officer Jan Kroetz during a hospital executive leadership meeting last week in honor of National Nurses Week. 

I was 6 years old when I decided I was going to be a nurse. My sister had her appendix out at the old Portland Sanitarium and Hospital that year, and little did I understand how her stay in the hospital would change my life.

I fell in love with the hospital environment, the student nurses and the idea that you could go to the cafeteria and choose whatever you wanted to eat. None of those were good reasons for becoming a nurse, but at age 6 those were the things that impressed me.

With that experience and all the mission stories I heard at church and at religious camp meetings, I was determined that I was going to be a missionary nurse. It was not until much later that I read about Florence Nightingale, widely recognized as the founder of modern nursing and who established the first secular nursing school in the world in London in 1860.

Nightingale was born into a wealthy English family in 1820 and was never expected to have her own career. She got her name “Lady with the Lamp” from the lamp that she carried as she checked patients in the battlefield during the Crimean War. 

At the start of the war, she believed that the high death rate in military hospitals was due to poor nutrition, lack of supplies and overworking of the soldiers. Supplies such as soap and even water were in short supply, and patients were dying from infection.

She ordered scrub brushes and had the less injured patients scrub the hospital from floor to ceiling. She also had the nurses shorten their uniforms so they were two inches off the floor. She even had the kitchens cleaned and started a laundry so the patients had clean linens.

She did not understand all the things we now know about infection control, but she did make the connection between cleanliness and reduction of infection. Her work helped reduce deaths in the hospital by two-thirds.

Nightingale set the expectation that nurses would provide quality care and evaluate their work. She ensured patient engagement; by rounding every night, with her lamp, the soldiers were moved by her compassion and caring. She set high standards and expectations for her students. She was diagnosed with Crimean fever at age 38 and never fully recovered until her death at age 90. She died at home in 1910. 

The government and the people of England wanted her buried in Westminster Abby, but her wish was to be buried in the small country churchyard of St. Margaret’s Church in East Wellow, Hampshire. Her words to nurses today are “Let us never consider ourselves finished …. we must be learning all of our lives.”

Our Loma Linda University Health nurses today are continually learning and using their skills to not only care for patients, but demonstrate compassion throughout the organization: 

• There is Helena, who took the time to comb out the knots in a patient’s hair and hired her own hairdresser to come and give the patient a haircut.

• There is Nicole, who helped the husband of a trauma patient get a room for the night and then, after her shift, drove him to the hotel because he had no car.

• There is Amanda, who, at the family’s request, stayed with them during a family conference with the doctors because they wanted her support.

• There is Monica, who sits with her patients when they are fearful or feeling vulnerable and talks with them about their faith and prays with them. 

• There is Chess at East Campus, who took the time to walk a young 21-year-old visitor to her car at night so she would not have to walk through the parking lot alone.

• There is Martha in the Emergency Department, whom a patient says “deserves a place in heaven” because she saw to it that even in that rushed and noisy environment he get a good night’s rest.

• And then there is Jolly, who took pictures of the flowers that had been sent to her ICU patient and hung them in the patient’s room because the live flowers could not be in the ICU room.

And I could go on and on — every day I hear stories of how our nurses are living our values.

And while it didn’t work out for me to serve as a missionary in Africa or South America, I remember clearly when I realized that God had other plans for me. He helped me understand that my mission field was going to be where He had led my husband and I — right here in Loma Linda.

The stories I hear about the compassion of our nurses remind me that we are here to continue the healing ministry of Jesus Christ, and that our mission field can be wherever we find ourselves. That realization always brings to mind the text in Matthew 25:40 — “Verily I say unto you, inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.”

—Jan Kroetz, MN, RN, is the chief nursing officer of Loma Linda University Medical Center.

]]>
Thu, 18 May 2017 10:10:11 -0700
4264:30734 <![CDATA[Employees of East Campus Outpatient Rehab Center named winners]]> Nancy Yuen East Campus Outpatient Rehabilitation Center employees are celebrating their big win — a photo submitted by Elizabeth Weber won a selfie contest that was part of Loma Linda University Health celebrations of National Hospital Week.

Employees were invited to take selfies showing their Loma Linda University Health pride, and more than 100 entries were submitted from departments across campus during National Hospital Week, May 7 to 14. Weber’s winning selfie illustrated the week’s theme perfectly: “Recognizing our employees for being the healing heart of healthcare.”

]]>
Thu, 18 May 2017 10:19:32 -0700
4264:30728 <![CDATA[Exhibition of quack medical devices opens at library]]> Heather Reifsnyder “Quack ‘o’ Rama: A Collection of Questionable Medical Devices” is now on display at the Heritage Research Center in Loma Linda University’s Del E. Webb Memorial Library. The free exhibit opened May 1 and continues through Sept. 29, 2017.

Dating from the first half the 20th century, the devices include a “Radium Ore Revigator,” a ceramic water crock lined with radioactive — yes, radioactive — materials, and the “Ultra Violet Ray” device. Each was falsely marketed to treat or prevent all manner of illnesses.

Many of these medical devices were proven to be either ineffective or unsafe and seized by the courts. Some inventors faced criminal charges. 

During the 1980s, the equipment on display was turned over to the care and supervision of the late Loma Linda University professor William T. Jarvis, PhD, who dedicated himself to the fight against medical quackery in addition to his teaching duties in the Schools of Medicine, Public Health and Dentistry. He founded the California Council Against Health Fraud and co-founded the National Council Against Health Fraud.

“Every responsible individual who is sensitive to the demands of ethical conduct has a role to play in this pervasive and perverse societal problem,” Jarvis wrote in a May 1990 newsletter of the LLU Center for Christian Bioethics.

Other items in the Quack ‘o’ Rama exhibit include antique medicine bottles, a sunlamp from the Battle Creek Sanitarium, rare first editions and out-of-print books from Loma Linda University’s own Department of Archives and Special Collections and vintage snake oil posters.

The display reminds that, lest we think medical quackery is a problem of the past, health consumers must still remain vigilant against fraudulent treatments and products. 

“In decades past, a combination of scientific ignorance and hope for a magical cure-all allowed quack gadgets to thrive,” said Michael Olivarez, curator of this exhibit as well as archives assistant at the Heritage Research Center. “In these modern times, a look at late-night infomercials on television shows medical quackery is still going strong.”

Those who wish to view the display may do so for free during normal business hours at the Heritage Research Center.

Keep up with the Heritage Research Center at its blog.

 

]]>
Thu, 18 May 2017 10:14:16 -0700
4264:30732 <![CDATA[Dine tonight with CHiPs for Children's Hospital fundraiser]]> Briana Pastorino While you won’t see Ponch or Baker, dine at BJ’s Restaurant in San Bernardino tonight, May 18, and be waited on by officers of the California Highway Patrol’s Inland Division during “Tip a CHiP,” a fundraiser to benefit Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital.

The event takes place from 4 to 9 p.m. Thursday night.

All tips given to the officers will be donated to Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital. Your support will go even further by presenting the flier on the Children’s Hospital Facebook page to your server, either on your phone or printed, and BJ’s will donate 20 percent of your total food check to the hospital.  

Present it to your server, and BJ’s will donate 20 percent of your total food check to the hospital. 

BJ’s is located at 1045 E. Harriman Place, San Bernardino.

LLU Children’s Hospital offers a very special thank you to the local California Highway Patrol and BJ’s Restaurant for all that they do for the community.

]]>
Thu, 18 May 2017 10:17:28 -0700
4264:30723 <![CDATA[Commencements set for May 28, June 11]]> James Ponder More than 1,400 students are scheduled to graduate from the eight schools of Loma Linda University on two upcoming Sundays: May 28 and June 11. In the meantime, teams of faculty and staff members are working to prepare for the celebratory weekends.

Ester Boloix-Chapman, university commencement coordinator, said graduation planning is a yearlong process.

“I always say it takes a village to plan and carry out our commencement weekends,” she said, noting that the process requires hundreds of people and thousands of hours to prepare for the festivities.

Below is a breakdown of commencement plans by school, along with notations of several graduates with interesting stories.

School of Allied Health Professions

This school graduates the largest number of students of any LLU school. This year, it will graduate 565 students in two separate commencement ceremonies at Drayson Center on Sunday, June 11, at 8 a.m. and at 10:30 a.m. Michael Kelly, II, MDiv, pastor of the Mt. Rubidoux Seventh-day Adventist Church in Riverside, California, will deliver the commencement addresses.

School of Behavioral Health

The school will graduate 107 students this year — 104 in person and three in absentia — in a joint ceremony with the School of Religion. Carlos Reza, who will receive a PsyD degree, is visually impaired. His dissertation is titled “How a disabled student can complete a doctoral degree at a post-secondary university.”

The ceremony will be held Sunday, June 11, at 3:30 p.m. in Drayson Center. The commencement address will be delivered by Daniel Sandy, PhD, MPH, president of the Sierra Leone Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. 

School of Dentistry

The school will graduate 166 students this year — 164 in person and two in absentia — on Sunday, May 28, at 5 p.m. The ceremony will be held on the Campus Mall. The commencement address will be delivered by Jim Wood, DDS, a graduate of the class of 1986 and a member of the California Assembly, representing the 2nd District, since 2014. 

School of Medicine

The school will graduate 183 students Sunday, May 28, at 8:30 a.m. on the Campus Mall. One of those students — whose name will not be revealed until the ceremony — will become the 11,000th graduate in the history of the school.

The commencement address will be delivered by Amy Hayton, MD, MPH, assistant professor and clerkship director in the department of medicine at the school, and internal medicine clerkship director at Loma Linda VA Medical Center.

School of Nursing

The school will graduate 244 students this year on Sunday, June 11, at 6 p.m. in Drayson Center. One of those students, Deanne Sparrow, will enter the MS program after receiving her BS degree at the service. She is the mother of six children, one of whom — her daughter, Hunter Sparrow — is also a student at the school.

Patricia E. Benner, PhD, professor emerita at the University of California, San Francisco, School of Nursing, will deliver the commencement address.

School of Pharmacy

The school will graduate 82 students Sunday, May 28, at 1:30 p.m. on the Campus Mall. This is the year for sisters at the school: twin sisters Da and Ko Kang, sisters Adorina and Arbella Moshava, and Delia Kandela — whose sister, Reem Kandela, graduated from the school in 2014 — will graduate this year.

Mary Ann Bukovinsky Kliethermes, PharmD, vice chair and professor of pharmacy practice at Chicago College of Pharmacy, will deliver the commencement address.

School of Public Health

The School of Public Health will graduate 128 students Sunday, June 11, at 1 p.m. in Drayson Center. This year marks the grand conclusion of the school’s first half century of service: 2017 is the 50th anniversary of its founding in 1967. Fred Hardinge, DrPH, associate director of health ministries for the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, will deliver the commencement address.

School of Religion

The school will graduate 15 students in a joint ceremony with the School of Behavioral Health. The ceremony will be held Sunday, June 11, at 3:30 p.m. in Drayson Center. Daniel Sandy, PhD, MPH, president of the Sierra Leone Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, and project manager for the ADRA Sierra Leone-USAID project, will deliver the commencement address.

For full details of the two commencement weekends, visit llu.edu/commencement.

 Or, for on-the-go commencement information, download the "LLUH Mobile” app from Apple or Google Play.

]]>
Thu, 18 May 2017 10:06:46 -0700
4264:30730 <![CDATA[Now open: Pediatric Express Care evening and Sunday hours]]> Heather Reifsnyder The new Pediatric Express Care service at Loma Linda University Health, which opened May 15, offers walk-in, non-emergency treatment for sick children on weekday evenings and Sundays.

The clinic’s hours are 4–8 p.m. Mondays through Fridays and 8:30 a.m.–3 p.m. on Sundays. It is closed Saturdays and holidays.

The clinic offers a walk-in option for parents during non-business hours other than Urgent Care or the Emergency Department.

On the clinic’s first day, the staff treated nine children in just three hours. 

“We help parents get the quality care their sick children need as efficiently as possible,” said Joy Iwakoshi, administrator of the Department of Pediatrics.

To learn more or hear about insurances accepted, call 909-558-2828

The clinic is located at 25845 Barton Rd. in Loma Linda.

]]>
Thu, 18 May 2017 10:16:13 -0700
4264:30736 <![CDATA[Going three for three: one last 'Big Pour']]> Heather Reifsnyder Things are looking down — that is, the view into the construction pit of the future hospital complex will be a site worth bending one’s neck for this Sunday afternoon, May 21.

At 8:20 p.m. Saturday night, equipment will be brought into place for the third and final “Big Pour” of the foundation. Concrete delivery will begin about two hours later. This pour will complete the mat foundation — a four-foot-thick concrete slab enforced with steel rebar.

The work is taking place over a Saturday night in order to minimize the number of people impacted. Expect noise, bright lights and restricted access to the front entrance of the LLU Medical Center: it will close at 8:20 p.m. — 40 minutes earlier than the usual weekend closure — through 11:30 a.m. Sunday.

During those hours, entry to the Medical Center and Children’s Hospital will be gained through the Emergency Department on Campus Street. 

“We hope you share in our excitement about this milestone, and we greatly appreciate your patience while the work takes place,” said Eric Schilt, assistant vice president for construction at LLU Medical Center.

Want to have a look at the process? Visit the second-floor breezeway between the Medical Center and Children’s Hospital between 8–10 a.m. Sunday. Parking will be available in the P3 structure on Campus Street during that time. (But remember that P3 is reserved for patient and visitor parking only during normal business.)

Contact Schilt at eschilt@llu.edu for more information about this weekend’s pour.

Set to open in 2020, the new building will feature two towers — one for adults and one for children. The adult tower will replace the current Medical Center, while the pediatric tower will increase space for patient care at LLU Children’s Hospital by about 40 percent. 

]]>
Thu, 18 May 2017 10:24:30 -0700
4264:30721 <![CDATA[Get started now: requirements for Wholeness Health Plan ]]> Heather Reifsnyder Two health plan choices are available to eligible employees of Loma Linda University Health. For the most benefit to employees, the Wholeness Plan offers more comprehensive care for a better price than the Base Plan.

Ahead of fall enrollment or reenrollment into the Wholeness Plan for 2018, employees — and their covered spouses — must complete certain requirements by Sept. 1, 2017. (Employees who wish to forgo these requirements can remain in the Wholeness Plan at a higher price, or move down to the Base Plan.)

Designed with beneficiary’s wellness in mind, these requirements apply to employees of all Loma Linda entities except LLU, which will go through this process next year, and Murrieta, which has a separate health plan. 

The video below describes the ABCs of the Wholeness Plan requirements, which are:

Assessment and Account: Complete an online health risk assessment and create a MyChart account if you do not already have one.

Biometric screening: Complete a biometric screening at one of the many locations on campus. Please note, you and your spouse must bring your biometric screening code to your appointment. This number is located on your CVS/Caremark Health Plan ID card starting with “LL.”

Care management: If you or your covered spouse is sent a letter of invitation for care management support, you will need to complete the entire program or a series of appointments/activities by the deadline.

The purpose of these requirements is to ensure that all employees are experiencing maximum health and wholeness.

Employment status and health coverage are not affected by clinical results, which will also not be shared with your employer.

Learn more about the Wholeness Plan and what you need to do in this video, and download the ABC Requirement Letter below it.

]]>
Thu, 18 May 2017 10:05:22 -0700
4264:30719 <![CDATA[Accreditors to review residency and fellowship programs]]> Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Health is gearing up for a routine review of its residency and fellowship programs by the Accreditation Council on Graduate Medical Education. The council accredits 56 residencies and fellowships offered at Loma Linda University Health.

Site visitors will be at LLU Medical Center and Children’s Hospital May 23-25 to conduct a “Clinical Learning Environment Review” (often shortened to CLER). They will hold group sessions with more than 180 physicians and conduct walking rounds during which they interview nurses and other hospital staff.

“We appreciate your help should a site visitor ask you any questions,” said Daniel Giang, MD, vice president for graduate medical education at Loma Linda University Health. 

The review process focuses on six areas: patient safety, healthcare quality, care transitions (transfer of patient responsibility between residents), supervision, physician well-being, and professionalism.

“The site visitors are looking at how well we integrate residents and fellows into the quality and patient safety processes of the hospital,” Giang said. “Ensuring that is our daily focus, which translates to the best patient care and the best-trained physicians.”

Learn more about CLER site visits from the Accreditation Council on Graduate Medical Education.  

]]>
Thu, 18 May 2017 10:03:33 -0700
4264:30681 <![CDATA[True acceptance]]> Terry Swenson “Therefore, accept each other just as Christ has accepted you so that God will be given glory.” –Romans 15: 7

Through the last few months, our devotionals have focused on “one another-ing,” based on Bible passages that instruct how we should treat each other. The subject matter has been diverse. Yet each devotional has contained the catalyst for readjusting our ways of doing and thinking.

That catalyst is Jesus and how He viewed things and acted upon them. To me, it is an amazing thing to see the divergence of Jesus’ way from the way we generally do things. For example, I may think I know how to love someone. And, from a human standpoint, it would appear that I’m doing pretty well. The problem is my well-doing is based on the human definition of love. 

Jesus’ love takes us into the heights of love that comes from the heart of God. That is something that I have never experienced from another human, but it teaches me and compels me to follow His lead and love like Him.

Today’s passage of scripture does the same thing. Instead of talking about how to love one another, the passage calls me to accept others. Acceptance is not always an easy endeavor! Oh, it’s not very difficult if the person we are accepting is like us. It’s definitely easy to accept someone we admire and aspire to be like.

What about when that person is different from me and the way I live and view life? As a matter of fact, the greater the number of differences that separate me from the other person, the greater the difficulty in my accepting them. We look at the “different” person with their “different” look or “different” actions and ways, and we think, “If only they were more normal.” Which means: “If only they were more like me!”

It has been said that the dominant culture of any society does not view itself as a culture. It views itself as the norm. And therein lies the problem in accepting. Our human tendency toward acceptance comes in proportion to how the “other” reflects and acts like me. Yet the words of Romans 15:7 not only compel us to accept each other, they tell us to accept in the same manner as Jesus accepted us.

How did Jesus accept people? In Galatians 3:28, Paul (who also wrote our passage for today) gives us the answer:

“There is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male or female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus.”

All the filters and walls that humans construct to separate, Jesus tears down. Jew or Gentile means that there are no racial, ethnic or national separations. Slave or free means there are no separations based on socioeconomic metrics. Male or female means gender does not determine if you are in or out. 

Our one-ness comes from our same-ness. We are all loved the same by God. We are all linked together in God through Jesus. And how does Jesus accept us? Once again, we turn to Paul who, in Romans 8:38-39, says:

And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow — not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below — indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

As you go about your job or your duties at Loma Linda University Health, it becomes easier to accept people you work with, meet or serve as you realize we are all one and the same — greatly loved and accepted by Jesus.

Terry Swenson, DMin, is the campus chaplain for Loma Linda University.

]]>
Thu, 11 May 2017 11:30:39 -0700
4264:30683 <![CDATA[Do we really have free will? Answer to be debated]]> Heather Reifsnyder It’s a question under upheaval as neuroscience creates increased understanding of the brain: are we free to determine our own paths and beliefs?

The community is invited to gain greater understanding on the topic of free will, and how it impacts one’s life, by attending presentations by leading theologians during a Loma Linda University conference May 19 and 20.

The discussion — a significant one in a society that presupposes free will to form its understandings of law, religion and ethics — will be presented in an accessible manner for the well-read layperson.

Friday evening, May 19, at 7:30 p.m., Philip Clayton, PhD, will offer his viewpoints in a lecture titled “Science, Ethics and Free Will: Why Neuroscience Doesn’t Ground Freedom, and What We Might Choose to Do About It.” Clayton holds the Ingraham Professorship of Theology at Claremont School of Theology. He has published numerous books, including two related to human freedom: Mind and Emergence: From Quantum to Consciousness and In Quest of Freedom: The Emergence of Spirit in the Natural World.

Saturday afternoon, May 20, at 3 p.m., Thomas Oord, PhD, will share his perspective in a presentation titled “Genuine Freedom for Creatures and for a God of Love.” Oord is a professor of theology at Northwest Nazarene University, as well as an award-winning author. He has written or edited more than 20 books, including, related to the topic of free will, Creation Made Free: Open Theology and Science.

Oord’s talk will be followed by a panel discussion.

Both lectures take place at Damazo Amphitheater in Loma Linda University’s Centennial Complex, 24760 Stewart St., Loma Linda.

The conference is sponsored by the Humanities Program, which is housed in LLU’s School of Religion and directed by James Walters, PhD, professor of religion.

Neuroscience is increasingly discovering traces of conscious thought in the subconscious brain, according to Walters, who said, “What that new knowledge means for individual human responsibility in both ethics and religion could be profound.”

The conference will aim to find practical suggestions for how the contemporary Christian can make sense of this topic in light of popular press descriptions of free will as an illusion.

“Through interdisciplinary scholarship, the conference will candidly grapple with new knowledge coming out of neuroscience,” Walters said. 

Clayton’s and Oord’s lectures will be the main highlights of the two-day conference for the public, but several other sessions will take place during which scholars of expertise ranging from psychiatry to ethics to theology will present papers. To learn more about the full conference, call 909-558-5925 or email Magi Armany at marmany@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 11 May 2017 11:34:32 -0700
4264:30673 <![CDATA['Life on the Line' nominated for seven regional Emmy Awards]]> James Ponder Mound City Film’s award-winning Life on the Line television program has once again been nominated for Emmy Awards by the Pacific Southwest Chapter of The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences, this time in seven categories.

Mound City Films contracts with Loma Linda University Health’s Department of Advancement Films to produce the show Life on the Line. The team has previously received a total of 13 regional Emmys, one of which was for Life on the Line. Project coordinator Keturah Reed said episodes or a season of the show have been nominated this year in the following categories:

  • It’s About the Journey: Sports – Daily or Weekly Program or Special
  • San Bernardino Strong: Documentary
  • Show Open: Graphic Arts – Graphics
  • San Bernardino Strong: Director: Non-Live (Post Produced)
  • Season 3: Editor – Program (Non-news)
  • Show Open: Editor – Short Form
  • Season 3: Photographer – Program (Non-news)

Cosmin Cosma, MA, producer, said Mound City Films specializes in story-driven content that reflects the resilience and positive nature of humankind.

“Our team is excited to be nominated again this year after last year’s first Emmy Award win for Life on the Line,” Cosma said. “It is truly an honor to have the stories we tell from Loma Linda University Health recognized and valued by the members of The National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences.”

Cosma and Reed are named in the Emmy nominations along with their colleagues Michael Wolcott, Erik Edstrom and Patricia Kelikani.

Garrett Caldwell, DMin, executive director of public affairs at Loma Linda University Health, said the Emmy nominations underscore the film team’s combination of well-honed technical skills and artistry in the craft of storytelling.

“It is obvious to me that the team cares deeply for the human subjects of their films, so much that I believe these stories are not just an account of those individuals’ healing, but a critical component of their journey to wholeness,” Caldwell said.

]]>
Life on the Line season 3 at Olive Avenue Market in Redlands.]]> Thu, 11 May 2017 11:18:41 -0700
4264:30687 <![CDATA['Stand Up to Stigma' -- a 5K to support mental health]]> Larry Becker The “Stand Up to Stigma” 5K, sponsored by the Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center, will let runners and walkers of all ages express their support for mental health services.

The race is scheduled for Sunday, May 21, at 8 a.m. Registration and starting line will be in the Behavioral Medicine Center’s parking lot, 1710 Barton Rd., Redlands. 

Race entry fees and sponsorships will help support playground facilities for the center’s youth patients.

Registration fees include a goodie bag, runner’s bib and a T-shirt (shirt limited to first 500 entries). Racers will also enjoy a “Post Race Bash” featuring lunch, refreshments, photo booth and mental health information. 

May is national Mental Health Month, a time when events like the 5K help spread the word that mental health is something everyone should care about. One in five adults and children experience a mental illness at some point in their lifetime, and more than 16 million American adults live with major depression, according to statistics from the National Institute of Mental Health.

Join Loma Linda University Health and runners from throughout the Inland Empire to stand up to the stigma that surrounds mental illness. Race entry fees are $15 per person, or $10 for students. Enter online at llubmc.eventbrite.com. For information about the range of services available at the Behavioral Medicine Center, visit llubmc.org.

 

]]>
Thu, 11 May 2017 11:39:54 -0700
4264:30675 <![CDATA[New NICU coming to Murrieta campus]]> Ansel Oliver Construction began last week on Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta’s upcoming neonatal intensive-care unit (NICU), which is scheduled to open this autumn and add to the hospital’s complete delivery care for new parents.

The six-bed facility will be a Level II NICU, enabling hospital staff to take care of the most common problems that can occur with premature infants born at or after 32 weeks of gestation. Hospital medical officers said approximately 5 to 10 percent of all babies need additional post-delivery care that a NICU can provide, such as short-term mechanical ventilation, treatment for jaundice, help with feeding or treatment with antibiotics.

The new NICU will feature private rooms and allow parents to stay overnight in the same room as their baby, a unique feature that isn’t currently offered by providers in the area and is one of the top factors in helping NICU babies recover more rapidly, according to Raylene Phillips, MD, co-director of neonatology at Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta.

“It’s well known that babies have significant stress when separated from their mother because they’re still so psychologically connected,” Phillips said. “Our new NICU will allow us to keep the family and baby together, which will reduce stress for parents, and especially our newborn patients.”

Hospital executives said infants needing an even higher level of care — such as those with congenital heart defects or other surgical candidates — will have direct access to Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital, which has a Level IV NICU and the highest levels of expertise.

Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta already offers labor and delivery support, a skin-to-skin bonding program following delivery, and a lactation clinic.

Murrieta’s NICU is scheduled to open this autumn, after construction has completed and licensing requirements have been secured from appropriate state agencies.

“We’re pleased to be adding this Level II NICU to our complete delivery care services,” said Peter Baker, JD, MBA, administrator of Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta. “Our goal is to keep Southwest Riverside County-area newborns who may need additional care closer to their moms throughout the post-delivery care process. We’ll provide expectant families the comfort and assurance that their child will receive the best medicine has to offer, no matter the situation.”

]]>
Thu, 11 May 2017 11:21:25 -0700
4264:30685 <![CDATA[Patio Pantry reopens at Loma Linda Market]]> Nancy Yuen The Patio Pantry has reopened with new meal options that include 8-inch pizzas and a Mexican food bar offering burritos, tacos and tostadas. Sub sandwiches and grab-and-go items are also available.

The Patio Pantry is located next to Loma Linda Market, 24954 Prospect St. in Loma Linda, and is open Monday to Friday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Eight-inch pizzas are made to order and are prepared bubbly hot in two minutes. According to Greg Sullivan, director, LLU food services, the dining experience will change even more as changes in décor are implemented.

While Patio Pantry is a convenient option for faculty, students and staff, “We are determined to build on Patio Pantry’s reputation as a destination eatery,” said Ryan Villalobos, manager, food services.

News that Patio Pantry has reopened should please one such diner, Christina P, from Abbotsford, Canada. Christina, who gave the Pantry a perfect five-star Yelp rating, left this review: “I LOVE Patio Pantry…they are currently closed for renovations; PLEASE OPEN, PATIO PANTRY!!!!!”

]]>
Thu, 11 May 2017 11:36:45 -0700
4264:30670 <![CDATA[Oasis: a day for employees to rediscover meaning]]> Heather Reifsnyder Do you take your smartphone to bed with you? Spend more time with Netflix than your loved ones? Email people who are 10 feet away? It’s time to re-connect.

The annual Oasis retreat — a day of renewal for employees of Loma Linda University Health — will take place Thursday, May 18, with the theme “Finding Meaningful Connections in a Disconnected World.”

“We will discover what it means to set our hearts on God and connect with ourselves so we can most effectively relate to others,” said Kathy McMillan, MA, Oasis organizer and director of employee spiritual care at Loma Linda University Medical Center.

“Oasis will provide a refreshing escape from the desert of daily busyness,” she said.

Offering insight as the day’s keynote speakers will be Carla Gober-Park, PhD, assistant vice president for spiritual life and mission; Jana Boyd, PhD, LMFT, director, employee and student assistance program; and Aren Rennacker, associate pastor, Calimesa Seventh-day Adventist Church.

The day will provide opportunities to learn, interact with others and spend time in personal reflection.

Oasis will take place from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Forest Home Christian Conference Center, 40000 Valley of the Falls Drive, Forest Falls, CA, 92339.

Register for Oasis for the cost of $25 at https://myllu.llu.edu/apps/training/?page=registerSelf&context=registerSelf&esk=&eg_id=0&cc=a%253A0%253A%257B%257D&pid=a%253A0%253A%257B%257D&course_search%5Bkeyword%5D=OASIS&course_search%5Bdate_from%5D=&course_search%5Bdate_to%5D=&search_course=Search.

Light breakfast and lunch will be provided.

For more information, contact Employee Spiritual Care at employeespiritualcare@llu.edu or ext. 87261.

]]>
Thu, 11 May 2017 11:16:02 -0700
4264:30679 <![CDATA[Attention university employees: commuter survey]]> Compiled by Heather Reifsnyder Employees of Loma Linda University are asked to complete the annual Mandatory Commuter Survey required by the South Coast Air Quality Management District — the air pollution control agency for Orange County and the urban portions of Los Angeles, Riverside and San Bernardino counties.

This area is among the smoggiest regions of the United States.

The survey is now underway for LLU employees, who were sent an administrative email with the survey link April 28. Paper surveys are also available. 

Medical Center staff will be surveyed in the near future.

University employees must report how they commuted to work during the week of April 24-28, 2017: drive alone, carpool, walk, bike, ride the bus or vanpool? 

Employees who worked from home or who were sick or on vacation must still complete the survey.

The survey data is used to compute the Loma Linda University’s average vehicle ridership (AVR).

“We must improve on last year’s AVR, which was 1.211,” said Patricia Ibarra, employee transportation coordinator at Loma Linda University Health.This can be achieved if we all work together and complete the survey.”

She said, “Please complete your survey today and encourage your teammates to complete theirs.”

Departments with a 100 percent response rate will be entered into a raffle, and a person from the winning department will be randomly chosen to receive a 40” television. Last year’s LLU winner was Curt Sheline, assistant director of financial aid (pictured above).

Paper surveys and detailed instructions to complete the survey are available by contacting the Rideshare program at rideshare@llu.edu or ext. 53033.

 

 

]]>
Thu, 11 May 2017 11:28:14 -0700
4264:30677 <![CDATA[A message from our Medical Center CEO]]> Kerry Heinrich “The Healing Heart of Healthcare” — that’s the theme for this year’s National Hospital Week, May 7-13. It’s a perfect theme for us here at Loma Linda University Health, as we honor the healing heart in each one of you who make up the incredible workforce serving at our six hospitals. Thank you for the many ways each of you provides the high quality, compassionate care our patients and their families value.

Loma Linda University Health’s hospitals are important parts of the communities they serve. People — from our neighborhoods and from around the globe — come to us for health and for hope.

Each of you plays such a vital role in meeting those needs. I am so grateful for your commitment, your compassion and your dedication to each person we serve.

I thank you from the bottom of my heart for all you do. I know the entire leadership team adds their thanks as well. As we celebrate National Hospital Week, remember that it’s not about our buildings. National Hospital Week is a celebration of people like you.

Best regards,

Kerry Heinrich 
CEO, Loma Linda University Medical Center
Executive vice president, hospital affairs, Loma Linda University Health

Please enjoy the following short video in honor of National Hospital Week:

]]>
Thu, 11 May 2017 11:25:07 -0700
4264:30563 <![CDATA[Leading on subject of human research]]> James Ponder Several key Loma Linda University Health officials and researchers are scheduled to speak at the fifth annual meeting of the Adventist Human Subjects Researchers Association, which will be held in the Centennial Complex May 17 to 20. 

The theme for the 2017 convention is “Whole Person and Community Health and Wellness.” The keynote address will be delivered by Vincent Felitti, MD, of Kaiser Permanente Southern California. Felitti is an expert on how adverse childhood experiences affect adulthood.

Loma Linda University Health will be represented at the event as follows.

Wednesday, May 17

Rhonda Spencer-Hwang, DrPH, associate professor, School of Public Health, will deliver the opening presentation, “How to present your research,” at 3:30 p.m.

Thursday, May 18

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president, will extend the official university welcome to participants at 8:20 a.m.

Rhonda Spencer-Hwang, DrPH, associate professor, School of Public Health, will discuss “Adverse childhood experience and resilient centenarians and seniors: implication of the North American Blue Zone region for improving the health of our nation’s children” during session 1 at 10:30 a.m.

Lee Berk, DrPH, associate dean for research, School of Allied Health Professions, will chair session 1 on the topic of “Whole person health” at 10:30 a.m. 

Helen Hopp Marshak, PhD, MCHES, dean, School of Public Health, will chair session 2 on the topic of “Spirituality and health” at 1 p.m. 

Michael Samardzija, PhD, JD, associate vice president for research development, will chair session 4 on the topic of “Community health II” at 3:45 p.m. 

Gina Siapco, DrPH, assistant professor, School of Public Health, and Joan Sabate, MD, DrPH, professor, School of Public Health and School of Medicine, will speak on the topic of “Is soy isoflavone intake associated with the onset of puberty in boys?” as part of session 4 at 3:45 p.m. 

May 19

Janice De-Whyte, PhD, assistant professor, School of Religion, will offer the devotional thought at 8:30 a.m. 

Alexander Larson, student in the doctoral program in clinical psychology, School of Behavioral Health, will speak on the topic of “Church member disaffiliation: implications of religious orientation” as part of session 7 at 1:15 p.m. 

Craig Jackson, JD, MSW, dean, School of Allied Health Professions, will chair session 8 on the topic of “Programs, services and businesses of the church,” at 2:45 p.m.

Additionally, displaying posters at the event will be Loma Linda University doctoral students Crystal Valentine and Reggie Lubrica and faculty members Arezou Salamat, MOT, assistant professor of occupational therapy, School of Allied Health Professions, and Heather Javaherian-Dysinger, OTD, associate professor of occupational therapy, School of Allied Health Professions.

This year’s meeting is jointly sponsored by the Loma Linda University Schools of Allied Health Professions and Public Health.

The Adventist Human Subjects Researchers Association was founded in 2013 under the sponsorship of the Seventh-day Adventist General Conference Office of Archives, Statistics and Research. The association exists to provide a venue for Adventist human-subject researchers to confer on items of common interest, to assist the church in accomplishing its mission, to provide a group of peer reviewers for major research initiatives involving human subjects and to meet related objectives. 

Learn more about the speeches and reserve your spot.

The event is open to the public, but advance registration is recommended. 

]]>
Thu, 04 May 2017 10:32:58 -0700
4264:30562 <![CDATA[Opening the heart]]> Kathy McMillan Today, April 4, marks the 66th National Day of Prayer in our country. It was created by a joint resolution of the U.S. Congress and signed into law by President Harry S. Truman. Its purpose is to remind people of the need for personal prayer and to encourage us to pray for our leaders. Here at Loma Linda University Health, we have expanded the day to include prayer for our institution and our leaders.

Scripture tells us to pray for each other so that we can be healed. Working in a medical setting, it's easy to limit our thoughts to physical healing, but healing can take other forms as well. Many of us need healing of our emotions, healing in relationships or healing in our spiritual lives.  

In the book Steps to Christ, Ellen White talks about the privilege of prayer. She says, "Prayer is the opening of the heart to God as to a friend." She continues, "Our heavenly Father waits to bestow upon us the fullness of His blessing ... What a wonder it is that we pray so little! God is ready and willing to hear the sincere prayer of the humblest of His children." 

As we celebrate this day of prayer, I encourage you to pray for:

1. Our world and the international tensions that are currently being felt
2. Our nation and its leaders
3. Our city and community — and the needs of those who live nearby
4. The churches and faith communities of the Inland Empire
5. Loma Linda University Health and its leadership team
6. Your department, supervisor and colleagues
7. Your family and close friends
8. Your own needs.

Set aside some special time soon to talk with God about what is on your heart and experience the personal connection that comes from sharing with Him.

—Kathy McMillan, MA, is director of employee spiritual care at Loma Linda University Medical Center.

 

]]>
Thu, 04 May 2017 10:31:28 -0700
4264:30583 <![CDATA[ Big Pour No. 2]]> Advancement films ]]> This 40-second video shows construction workers completing the second of three foundation pours for the future hospital complex. They began Saturday night, April 29, and finished midday Sunday.

]]>
Thu, 04 May 2017 12:06:21 -0700
4264:30581 <![CDATA[Donate blood: join Drs. Stevens and Otoukesh giving the gift of life]]> Nancy Yuen Whether the transfusion is used for a heart surgery patient who requires as many as six units of blood or a trauma victim who may need up to 50 units of red blood cells, donating blood saves lives.

Every day local hospitals, including Loma Linda University Medical Center, depend on immediate, significant supplies of blood to treat their patients.

Next week, Loma Linda University Health is hosting blood drives at:

—Loma Linda University Health (Magan Hall): Tuesday, May 9 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

—Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta (hospital lobby): Wednesday, May 10 from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. 

Donors also receive a free cholesterol screening and are awarded Gift of Life Donor Loyalty points that may be redeemed at Lifestream’s online donor store. In addition, those aged 18 to 44 years may register for the Be The Match bone marrow screening at all donor locations.

Wesley “Tait” Stevens, chief of section for transfusion, and Salman Otoukesh, MD, hematology/medical oncology fellow, Loma Linda University Health, recently donated platelets at LifeStream’s San Bernardino donor center. Cancer treatments can reduce the number of platelets in the body; many such patients require regular platelet transfusions. 

Platelets are the clotting agent in the blood and may be donated as frequently as once a week. However, individuals are limited to donating platelets 24 times per year – so LifeStream suggests platelet donors give bi-weekly to help ensure a steady supply for patients in need. It is important to increase the number of platelet donors as this blood component must be transfused within five days of collection. 

According to Don Escalante, a public relations specialist for LifeStream, donors like Stevens and Otoukesh are making it possible to meet the demand for blood and platelets.

While all blood types and donation types are needed, “We always keep our eye specifically on the blood type O-negative and platelet supply,” says Escalante. “Type O-negative blood in particular is needed at all times because type-O red blood cells can be given to any patient.”

Do you know your blood type?

Donors receive a card four to six weeks after their first donation on which their blood type is listed. “From that point forward, the card serves as ID each time they give blood with LifeStream,” says Escalante, “and it also is valuable to have on their person in the event they need an emergency transfusion.”

 

]]>
Thu, 04 May 2017 11:55:37 -0700
4264:30566 <![CDATA[New feature 'Total Rewards Statement' identifies total compensation, benefits]]> Did you know that benefits can constitute 30 percent to 40 percent of an employee’s total rewards package? 

The Department of Human Resource Management is unveiling the new Total Rewards Statement feature, which enables employees to view a graphical breakdown of employer provided compensation and benefits from the prior calendar year, including regular pay, overtime pay, paid leave, sick leave, differential pay, life insurance, bereavement leave, jury duty pay and more. 

The feature, located within PeoplePortal, also allows employees to see benefits to which they contribute, such as health plans and supplemental life insurance.

“Our employees are one of our biggest investments and we want them to understand the value of their compensation and benefits package, including benefits that support their mental, physical and financial wellbeing,” said Mark Hubbard, senior vice president of Human Resource Management.  

Next to compensation, benefit expenditures represent the second largest payroll expense within Loma Linda University Health, Hubbard said.

The retirement section of the Total Rewards Statement focuses on the employer basic and matching contributions that an employee may receive.  The employee paid value represents an employee’s deferral to a tax-sheltered annuity. The work/life section includes the value of items provided by the employer that the employee may or may not be utilizing such as Drayson Center, SmartDollar, AllClear ID, Employee Assistance Program, cafeteria and gift shop discounts and more.  

“We feel our comprehensive compensation and benefit package allows us to attract and retain top talent, and the Total Rewards Statement is a tool that will raise employee awareness regarding the total value of the rewards provided by their employer,” said Lizette Norton, vice president of Human Resource Management.

The Total Rewards Statements for Loma Linda University, LLU Medical Center, Children’s Hospital, Behavioral Medicine Center, Shared Services, and Health Education Consortium are now available online through PeoplePortal. The statements are located in the “Employee Self Service” section under “My Total Rewards.”

The Total Rewards Statement for LLU Health Care will be published at a later date in 2017. The Total Rewards Statement for LLU Medical Center – Murrieta is targeted for next year. 

For more information, view the FAQ and outline of benefits on the PeoplePortal homepage after signing in, or contact Human Resource Management at ext. 14001 or humanresources@llu.edu for questions.

]]>
Thu, 04 May 2017 10:50:08 -0700
4264:30584 <![CDATA[ Celebrating National Nurses Week]]> Heather Reifsnyder National Nurses Week is May 6-12, and Loma Linda University Health is taking the opportunity to celebrate its dedicated nursing staff.

Nurses are invited to professional development courses being held Monday, May 8, and Thursday, May 11.

Additionally, all employees have the opportunity to thank the nurses who make a difference in their lives via iAppU Notes on the One Portal.

Food trucks will also be on campus as part of National Hospital Week.

In addition, Loma Linda University’s School of Nursing will host a Facebook Live broadcast to answer questions for those wishing to know more about the wide range of opportunities in the nursing profession. The event is scheduled for 4 p.m. Wednesday, May 10, on Loma Linda University Health’s Facebook account.

See full details about National Nurses Week in the graphic below:

]]>
Thu, 04 May 2017 12:09:34 -0700
4264:30585 <![CDATA[ Events for National Hospital Week next week]]> Employees at Loma Linda University Health’s six hospitals are known for their compassionate care, and next week, the organization wants to show its own care for them.

Employees are invited to get involved in the following activities celebrating National Hospital Week.

]]>
Thu, 04 May 2017 12:10:14 -0700
4264:30576 <![CDATA[Notes from the President -- Mission True]]> Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   May 2017
True to Our Mission

“Richard

While the concern has been around a long time, the handle is new and self-defining. It can apply to organizations as well as individuals. A telling little book by that name Mission Drift sends out a warning to many organizations, particularly those with Christian and moralistic roots. Authored by Peter Greer and Chris Horst from HOPE International, it cites many examples of organizations, both well-known and not, that have simply drifted away from their original roots. Some have done it almost subconsciously, hardly noticing, until the change is so complete there is no turning back. Harvard and Yale are often noted as examples of this, starting as seminaries and now totally secular institutions. Others have been more deliberate, considering it a necessary and appropriate part of the maturation process, such as the YMCA, now just the “Y.”

“mission”

Mission Drift was a reading assignment for our recent Spiritual Leaders Retreat here at Loma Linda University Health. Reading it was both compelling and concerning, though mostly reassuring as I reviewed Loma Linda’s own history and current situation. Roger Hadley, dean of our School of Medicine, is fond of saying, “Loma Linda is one of only a very few organizations that has exactly the same mission as it did when it started in 1905.” While the words may have changed some, with our motto, “To Make Man Whole,” coming on board in 1956, and our current mission statement, “To continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ,” adopted more recently, it is clear that the public affirmation of mission has not changed.

But where are we now, both individually and organizationally? As I was preparing a talk for the spiritual leaders, I could come up with a number of “cultural” constants that are hard-wired here at Loma Linda and anchor us as a “Mission True” organization. They are long term and have survived generational changes. These include, among others:

1. Our motto / mission / vision / values statements

2. Religion classes for all students

3. Weekly required chapel

4. Biblically based sculptures across campus

5. Our commitment to wholeness

6. Our widespread practice of beginning most classes, committees and many clinical procedures with prayer

I personally think another anchor for mission is our pervasive commitment to service, both locally and globally, embodied in the many activities for students, staff and faculty across campus. I often hear visitors to campus, whether consultants or accreditors, say that they have never seen a place where the mission of an institution is more widely known or deeply held than at Loma Linda. That is reassuring.

Greer and Horst also acknowledge, however, that Mission True organizations must themselves learn how to adapt. Circumstances change, knowledge increases, and understandings mature. Certainly that is true in the health science world, and it would be expected in our social, theological, and relational worlds as well. Acceptance of the cultural and racial diversity among us is very different today than it was 100 years ago. Society changes, laws catch up and expectations are placed on organizations and individuals. Some we heartily endorse, like seat belt requirements or no smoking, while others, like gender equality, or age-based requirements, are slower to be adopted.

“samaritan”

An equal concern is whether we remain Mission True in our individual lives. It’s enlightening to give back to our graduating seniors their personal mission statements from their admission packet – what they said when applying to Loma Linda University about their goals for life and why they wanted to study here. A lot happens in three, four or five years as they mature and start seeing the world through their “professional” eyes. Potential earnings may awaken materialistic goals in the minds of some. A new spouse may change the course of an individual life. The realization of debt payments can certainly influence their choice of a career and job location. We recognize some degree of responsibility for this maturation, and seek to create a milieu that nourishes the best in each of us. Certainly connecting with human need, whether locally or globally, is one of the greatest influencers on these ideas. Loma Linda understands and maximizes that exposure, as it has for over a century.

My final thoughts expressed to our campus spiritual leaders the other day were: How do we maintain this environment? How do we keep Loma Linda University Health a Mission True organization? Is there a degree of diversity that is too much? Is there a size that is too big? How do we find and nurture the faculty and administrators who are comfortable with their beliefs and can be distinctive while still being accepting and inclusive? No one wants to work for a neutered organization without principles or firm convictions. Certainly not Loma Linda University Health. Our current leaders are united in our commitment to remaining a Mission True organization that unabashedly pursues our mission to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ – To Make Man Whole.

Sincerely, 

“Richard

 

 

 

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH

President, Loma Linda University Health

P.S. I thought you would enjoy seeing a 360-degree picture of the new hospital construction site from high atop a crane. The old hospital is on top of the picture; our newest parking structure by the Faculty Medical Offices is on the left, and the main campus on the right.

 

“ariel”

]]>
Thu, 04 May 2017 11:51:25 -0700
4264:30485 <![CDATA[Yes, We Can!]]> Dilys Brooks “…teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God.” Col 3:16

Loma Linda University Health hosted the 15th Annual PossAbilities Triathlon last Sunday. I, along with approximately 1,000 participants, walked, ran and rolled the 5K at 7 a.m.

This continues to be one of the most inspirational experiences that our organization sponsors. While we milled around waiting for the race to begin, I noticed there were two groups of people who wore T-shirts in support of someone who was participating in the event. Once the pre-race formalities were completed, we surged forward to cross the start line, signaling the beginning of the race. Those athletes who were actually competing for the prize were in the front of the pack, and we didn’t see them until they were making their way back to the finish line.

There were volunteers along the route who were not only committed to keeping us safe, they also spoke or shouted words of encouragement to each of us as we passed by. The participants themselves also called out affirmations to each other as we trudged along the route.

We were all committed to finish what we began. There were times when we observed someone’s strength waning, yet a reminder from someone along the way brought a smile or renewed energy which pushed them on.

This reminds me of the Paul’s statement about how we ought to live as members of the Loma Linda University family. We should be cheering each other onward, reminding each other that we will accomplish the tasks set before us. 

We can do all things through Christ who gives us strengthPhilippians 4:13

There is so much in the local, national and international news that causes discouragement, concern and fear. 

While we can’t change what is happening, we can teach and admonish each other that better days are yet to come. Our understanding of the word “admonish” has negative connotations unless we find ourselves feeling overwhelmed or afraid. During those times, we need someone who will cajole, encourage and challenge us to push ourselves beyond the boundaries that seem to impede our progress.

After I completed the race, I watched one of the teams cross the finish line together. They lined up behind one another with a young woman in a wheelchair at the head. They had all come out to support her. They worked together to accomplish the goal and shared in its accomplishment.

Regardless of which part of the enterprise we may find ourselves in today, each of us contributes to the attainment of our mission. Let’s remember to encourage, cajole, challenge and uplift each other as we work to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ.

Dilys Brooks is an associate chaplain for Loma Linda University.

]]>
Thu, 27 Apr 2017 11:46:57 -0700
4264:30481 <![CDATA[Say NOW to reach your healthy weight goals]]> Caitlin McKee Losing weight is challenging for most people and, statistically, keeping the weight off is even harder.

Increase your chances for success by partnering with the Say NOW (Say No to Overweight) Program, which provides support and accountability to help participants reach their weight loss goals.

The Say NOW Program is a 4-month initiative that provides weight management resources to employees and covered spouses. The program partners with weight management experts across campus to offer classes that provide practical tips and real-life skills emphasizing nutrition, physical activity, accountability, and behavior modification in a judgement-free environment. In addition, a registered dietitian works with participants providing guidance and offering suggestions for making nutrition improvements.

The Say NOW Program is open to Loma Linda University Health employees and covered spouses. The program is free when attendance and program requirements are met.

To learn more or to sign up, call x14007 or 909-651-4007

Information about other Living Whole Wellness Programs and Services can be found here.

]]>
Thu, 27 Apr 2017 11:07:07 -0700
4264:30478 <![CDATA[LLU Employee Benefits Fair and open enrollment]]> Contributed report Loma Linda University (LLU) faculty & staff are invited to attend the Tuesday, May 2, LLU Employee Benefits Fair, which will host vendors and campus representatives offering information regarding the various benefits and services available to LLU employees.

Employees can visit booths in a festive atmosphere while enjoying refreshments. Attendees will receive a welcome gift and will be eligible for giveaways and prizes, including a grand prize valued at $500.

LLU Open Enrollment is May 1 through 15. The LLU Employee Benefits Fair takes place during the open enrollment period, and LLU employees attending the fair will have access to on-site resources if they have any benefit or open enrollment questions.

 Employees are requested to obtain approval from their supervisor to attend. A LLU employee ID is required, and attendees will register when they arrive at the event. Each participant will receive a welcome gift and drawing card and will be eligible for the grand prize and other gifts.

Location:  Lawn between University Church and Prince Hall

Date: Tuesday, May 2

Time: 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.   

Employee Benefits Fairs for all other Loma Linda University Health entities will be held in the Fall.

Questions: Human Resource Management x14001; humanresources@llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 27 Apr 2017 10:47:07 -0700
4264:30474 <![CDATA[N<sup>3</sup>eight open house to take place today ]]> James Ponder 3eight' center will turn Loma Linda University Health's research ideas into products benefiting physicans, patients]]> A new start-up incubator has opened at Loma Linda University Health and is hosting an open house today (April 27) from 3 to 5 p.m. The center is located at 11219 Anderson Street in Loma Linda. 

Called n3eight, and pronounced “n-cubed 8” or “incubate,” the center was created as a place where researchers can bring promising new ideas from Loma Linda University Health laboratories into a business development space. Products will be built, tested, refined and prepared for commercial distribution to physicians and patients.

The center will also create jobs and enhance the economy of the Inland Empire, said Michael Samardzija, PhD, JD, associate vice president for research development for Loma Linda University Health.

“We’re creating companies that will develop innovations into products and deliver them to patients and physicians, all while creating new jobs,” Samardzija said.

N3eight will comprise nine start-up companies, and representatives will be on hand at the grand opening to talk with members of the public and reporters about how their firms will benefit consumers. Samardzija said the start-up will develop both diagnostic and therapeutic products.

The nine companies are:

  • Step Lite  illuminating pedals for use in surgery
  • iEye  diagnosing age-related macular degeneration
  • iSpin – small molecules targeting the Human Papillomavirus
  • StemRex  cell therapy programmed to become brain, bone, heart, liver, pancreas, kidney, or other cells
  • Vis  self-locking pedicle screws for back surgery
  • Tack  a novel device that will provide for better crowns and dental implants
  • Elf Zone – creating xenograft cancer models to assist in the fight against health disparities
  • Wholeness365 – creating a novel tool to assist healthcare practitioners in providing whole person care
  • SwimKey – An app that allows dentists to quickly identify a patient’s implant and all parts that can be used with it and seamlessly allows the dentist to order the desired part

Samardzija said the new center has obtained the support of California State University, San Bernardino, which will send business students to work with business development specialists as interns and project managers. He said he is also anticipating collaboration with additional business schools.

John Husing, PhD, chief economist for the Inland Empire Economic Partnership, said he anticipates the center will deliver on its promise. 

“The new center will benefit the region by spawning new companies and attracting others to capitalize on research discoveries,” Husing said. “That will, in turn, create better-paying jobs that will draw more highly educated employees to the area.”

]]>
Thu, 27 Apr 2017 10:14:13 -0700
4264:30465 <![CDATA[Video — Campus transformation update from the CEO]]> Nancy Yuen ]]> Steel Construction  When will we see steel beams begin to rise at the construction site?  Find out in this video message from Medical Center CEO Kerry Heinrich

]]>
Wed, 26 Apr 2017 17:23:10 -0700
4264:30472 <![CDATA[Second Big Pour set for Saturday night ]]> Larry Becker Construction equipment will be moved into place April 29, beginning at 8 p.m., with a steady stream of concrete delivery trucks beginning about two hours later. Work on this second pour will extend until noon Sunday.

While the pour is underway, only construction and emergency vehicles will have access to the Medical Center’s front entrance. Visitors will be directed to use the new P3 parking structure, with access to the hospital through the emergency department during off hours, and through the Grand Hallway from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. 

Noise levels related to the construction will be significantly elevated during the pour because of the concrete pumps, construction trucks using back-up alarms, and other large equipment being used. Temporary lighting will impact the area around the construction site.

Want to watch part of this important part of the campus renewal project? Good views are available from large windows on the second floor walkway connecting the Medical Center and Children’s Hospital. The Vision 2020 web page will also be hosting the views from three webcams throughout the event.

]]>
Thu, 27 Apr 2017 09:42:29 -0700
4264:30390 <![CDATA['Determination is Mine,' to screen at Newport Beach Film Festival]]> Contributed report  “Determination is Mine,” a documentary short about the journey of Malek Mohammad, an Afghan teen, to one day walk again after losing both his legs after stepping on a landmine, has been accepted into the Newport Beach Film Festival. The film features a team of Loma Linda University Health clinicians dedicated to the care of Mohammad’s care.

When he was 15 years old, Mohammad set out to collect firewood for his mother. As he stepped into a field he fell victim to two landmines. His legs, stripped from his body, lay several feet away from him. Two years later, in 2008, he came to America filled with hope. His goal — to return home to Afghanistan walking.

The 35-minute film follows Mohammad as he travels from his hometown to Loma Linda, where he would live for two years as he received extensive treatment for his injuries at Loma Linda University Health.

In addition to medical care, Mohammed is introduced and adapted into a whole new culture. He built a life during his time in Loma Linda – he attended school, made friends, and joined PossAbilities, a free community outreach program that offers disabled individuals who were born with or have permanent physical injury a sense of community, as well as offer activities and practical direction to help them lead active, fulfilling lives.

Produced by Mound City Films, “Determination is Mine” distills the essence of Loma Linda University Health’s motto, “to make man whole.

Director Patricia Kelikani captured footage and interviews both in Loma Linda and Afghanistan to create the film. "It was an honor to tell Malek's story of courageous transformation. His determination to never give up encourages viewers to keep going despite whatever challenging circumstances we face," she said.

“Determination is Mine” will be screened at the film festival in Costa Mesa Sunday, April 23 at 8:15 p.m. and Thursday, April 27 at 7:15 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online.

]]>
Thu, 20 Apr 2017 14:29:21 -0700
4264:30382 <![CDATA[Thank a volunteer ]]> Heather Reifsnyder Volunteers help make Loma Linda University Health the organization that it is, and Volunteer Recognition Week, April 23-29, provides a great reminder to thank them for their help.

To understand the extent to which volunteers make a difference at Loma Linda, absorb the fact that in 2016, volunteers donated more than 153,000 hours of time to the organization. 

An average of 430 volunteers serve each month in areas including the Emergency Department, Child Life Services, the Gift Shop, patient units, and Hospitality Services. They also assist with clerical duties and research.

Describing the difference these selfless individuals make, Johanna Watt, director of Hospitality Services, said of volunteers:

“Their compassion and willingness to serve others is truly a reflection of God’s love and is the embodiment of our mission, vision and values,” she said. “Many of our areas could not do the great work that they do without the dedication of our volunteers.” 

Volunteers also improve the patient experience, providing services such as delivering handmade blankets, offering companionship and taking on tasks the staff need help with.

Take a look at the quotes in the image below for more testimonies on Loma Linda’s special volunteers.

If you would like to have a volunteer in your area, please contact Volunteer Services at ext. 88022 or email  volunteerservices@llu.edu for more information. 

Individuals interested in volunteering can visit www.lomalindavolunteers.org to learn more.

]]>
Wed, 19 Apr 2017 15:57:51 -0700
4264:30393 <![CDATA[And further, submit to one another out of reverence for Christ]]> Terry Swenson As a follower of Jesus, I consider the Bible to be the guiding force for my life. I want to live and be like Jesus. Yet, in all honesty, there are things in the Bible that I give a mental nod to and then gingerly keep on stepping past them. Ephesians 5:21 is one of those passages for me. Now don’t get me wrong. Not all of the passage bothers me. I love the part about giving reverence to Christ.  The dictionary definition of “reverence” is “a feeling or attitude of deep respect tinged with awe.” I feel those things. I do those things. I get that. It’s just that there is a word in this passage that I DO NOT like—“submit.” That word is not a good word in our culture.  

As a Baby Boomer, I grew up in a time when men were to show no feelings, but demonstrate courage in the face of adversity. We were to never give up, never submit. NEVER! But there is that word, submit, and it is being used as a directive for my life. 

In rereading the passage we see that submitting is not separated from reverence for Christ. It flows out of our reverence for Him. It is not enough for us to give Jesus an inward acquiescence. We show reverence by living His life His way through our actions. You can’t do one without the other. When viewed through the eyes of Jesus, submitting takes on a whole different meaning from the one I held. To me, submitting meant that I was weak, unimportant, inconsequential. 

Hollywood and my culture taught me the wrong meaning of the word. “Submit” means “to give over or yield to the power or authority of another.” Ephesians 5:21 isn’t telling us to yield to another person. It is telling us that we yield to Jesus!  When we do that, we give Him the authority to guide us and show us how to live—not my will, but His.

If all of us at Loma Linda University Health thought and lived like that, what would things look like? No one would be lonely. No one would feel insignificant. We would be drawn together in our goals and efforts. Our Loma Linda University Health values would be an everyday byproduct of all we are and do. People who came into our midst, whether students or patients, would tangibly sense that this place is different. They would see that we really live out what we say and we continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ, “to make man whole.”

]]>
Thu, 20 Apr 2017 15:31:03 -0700
4264:30396 <![CDATA[An opportunity to care for your financial wellness ]]> Heather Reifsnyder April is the season for flowers, sunshine and tax refunds. Those annual checks provide a nice bump to the budget and have been known to inspire a spontaneous beach trip or shopping spree.

Revolutionize your tax refund with SmartDollar. Whether you’ve received your refund already or are expecting one soon, join or log in to your SmartDollar account to learn more tips on how to best manage your tax refund.

If you haven’t yet signed up for the SmartDollar program, you are missing out on receiving interesting and valuable information on personal finance for every stage of life. Loma Linda University Health employees and their spouses can sign up for the Dave Ramsey SmartDollar program at no charge. SmartDollar’s motivating content, budgeting tools and expert advice will help you reach your financial goals.

To learn more, click here.

]]>
Thu, 20 Apr 2017 15:56:55 -0700
4264:30397 <![CDATA[Learn more about autism during National Autism Awareness Month]]> Heather Reifsnyder April is National Autism Awareness Month! Observe National Autism Awareness Month with the Living Whole Wellness Program at Loma Linda University Health.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 out of 68 children has been identified with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Join us for this free, educational live stream and learn more about autism. 

Time:  5:30-6:00 p.m.

Date:  April 26, 2017

Featured guest speakers:

  • Vidhya Krishnamurthy, PhD, pediatric neuropsychologist, clinical director, Inland Empire Autism Assessment Center
  • Pilar Pichon, MD, child neurologist/epileptologist

Plan now to watch this WellnessLIVE presentation here.

If you missed last month’s live broadcast, Everyday Foods to Fight Cancer with Andrew Woodward, RD, check out the WellnessLIVE archive.

]]>
Thu, 20 Apr 2017 16:21:05 -0700
4264:30387 <![CDATA[Final push for elite industry status on electronic medical record use]]> Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Medical Center, Children’s Hospital, Surgical Hospital and East Campus hospital are just steps away from earning the highest rating for improving inpatient care via health information technology from the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS).

Loma Linda is working on Stage 7 — the highest level — of the society’s checklist for the inpatient Electronic Medical Record Adoption Model.

Only 4.8 percent of hospitals in the U.S. have achieved Stage 7 status.

“Reaching the final stage demonstrates that we are a data-driven organization committed to continuous improvement and intend to join that elite tier by the end of the year,” said Steve Corbett, MD, chief medical information officer for Loma Linda University Medical Center. 

Loma Linda University Health has three remaining items to complete on the 10-point checklist for Stage 7.

“Outcomes-Focused Analytics & Decision Support”

This means the demonstrated use of data to improve practice and outcomes. Loma Linda operational leadership is developing case studies that illustrate the use of analytics to drive change in the information technology, clinical and business spheres.

“Generally Paperless but with Timely Document Scanning”

The medical records team is evolving its entire document collection and scanning processes to meet the Stage 7 standard of scanning all clinically relevant documents within 24 hours of creation or receipt. These new processes go live in June 2017.

“Breast Milk and 95% Blood Scanning”

Loma Linda University Health already meets the barcoded breast milk requirement and is working toward implementation of the requirement for bedside barcode scanning of blood products by August 2017. “Electronic verification of blood products ensures the blood is being given to the right patient. This is an important step to ensure blood product administration is as safe as we can make it,” said W. Tait Stevens, MD, chief of section for transfusion, LLU Medical Center.

After completing these three requirements, Loma Linda’s final step toward Stage 7 status is hosting an evaluation team from HIMSS Analytics.

“Enabling automation to support key clinical and operational processes is an attribute of leading organizations and it will be good to see Loma Linda receive this recognition,” said Mark Zirkelbach, MPA, chief information office for LLU Medical Center.

Employees who would like to learn more can reach out to Stage 7 project manager Zoe Soens at zsoens@llu.edu.

]]>
Wed, 19 Apr 2017 21:20:56 -0700
4264:30399 <![CDATA[Loma Linda University Medical Center awarded certification as a Comprehensive Stroke Center]]> By Briana Pastorino and James Ponder Loma Linda University Medical Center (LLUMC) recently learned that its application to open the only Comprehensive Stroke Center in the Inland Empire has been approved by the Joint Commission, the American Heart Association and the American Stroke Association, making it the first and only hospital in the Inland Empire to earn this accreditation.

On April 18, the Medical Center announced it had received the Gold Seal of Approval® from the Joint Commission as well as the American Heart Association’s and American Stroke Association’s Heart-Check mark for Comprehensive Stroke Center Certification. The designations mean LLUMC has attained the highest level of stroke care certification for hospitals that meet care standards for the most complex stroke cases on a 24/7 basis. 

To do that, LLUMC had to demonstrate compliance with Primary Stroke Center standards as well as additional requirements including: 

  • Advanced imaging capabilities
  • Advanced, specialized treatments available 24/7
  • Advanced educational opportunities and competencies to enable staff members to care for complex stroke patients.

Vincent V. Truong, MD, director of the Loma Linda University Health Comprehensive Stroke Center, says it represents a streamlined, interdisciplinary effort to rapidly recognize and treat stroke patients with the highest quality of care.

“When timing is critical, you want a stroke center that is prepared to deliver the most advanced, comprehensive stroke care,” Truong said. “Our recent designation proves we can do just that.”

The Stroke Center is an alliance of health professionals working toward the common goal of protecting and healing stroke patients from the time they have a stroke until the day they are discharged home and beyond. Collaborative care is provided by physicians and nurses trained in each of the following specialties:

  • Neurology
  • Emergency medicine
  • Neuro-critical care
  • Endovascular and cerebrovascular neurosurgery
  • Interventional neuroradiology
  • Vascular surgery, and
  • Neuro-rehabilitation.

In calling the multi-agency certification a testament to the organization’s commitment to the health of the community, Lyndon Edwards, MBA, MHS, senior vice president of Loma Linda University Medical Center Adult Hospital Services, said LLUMC is committed to “providing quick, innovative, compassionate care from the minute patients arrive.” 

Additional information on the Stroke Center is available online at lomalindastroke.org or by phone at 909-558-2880.

]]>
Thu, 20 Apr 2017 16:31:36 -0700
4264:30318 <![CDATA[A taste of spring: free cooking demonstration]]> Esmerelda Guerrero and Heather Reifsnyder Employees and students have an opportunity next week to enjoy the season’s freshest flavors with salads that incorporate the fruit and vegetable jewels of spring.

A free cooking demonstration Wednesday, April 19, will feature healthy spring salads prepared in front of the audience by Chef Andy Woodward, MS, RD, CSO, who is a dietitian at Loma Linda University Cancer Center.

Guests can sample the salads and take home recipes.

Employees and students are invited to bring their families, but space is limited. RSVP today by calling ext. 14007.

The demonstration will take place in the Nichol Hall kitchen from 6 to 7:30 p.m. It is offered by LLU Cancer Center and the Living Whole Wellness Program at Loma Linda University Health.

 

]]>
Thu, 13 Apr 2017 15:13:46 -0700
4264:30320 <![CDATA[Enjoy tax-free iPad and Mac purchases]]> Heather Reifsnyder Employees and students at Loma Linda University Health needn’t go all the way to a distant Apple Store for their tech needs. iLLU Tech at the Campus Store is an Apple-authorized educational seller.

iLLU Tech will hold a faculty and staff appreciation day next week with tax-free purchases of iPads and Mac computers. Students are also eligible for the savings.

The event takes place Tuesday, April 18, from 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. The offer applies to in-store purchases while supplies last. Download the flier below this story for full details.

"We are having a tax-free day to provide greater benefits to all Loma Linda University Health employees and students that only iLLU Tech can offer," said Vincent Garcia, manager.

Additionally, a free drink from Boba Tea House will be offered to students, faculty and staff who present their ID badge. Quantities are limited: come early.

To learn more, email Garcia at vfgarcia@llu.edu or call 909-558-4129.

The Campus Store is located at 11161 Anderson St., Suite 110, adjacent to Loma Linda Market.

Discover more about iLLU Tech on its Facebook page.

 

 

]]>
Thu, 13 Apr 2017 15:15:22 -0700
4264:30322 <![CDATA[Time for another approach]]> Dilys Brooks “… and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds.” –Hebrews 10:24

There is something about myself that I don’t like to admit. I’m sure that I am not the only person who works within the organization who possesses this character trait. I think I have been very good at masking or minimizing this from those who work with me. I have met some people who have more of this attribute than I do, and I find myself wondering if this is how people experience me as well.

Before I disclose what this is, I must say that there is a positive side to the trait. It allows me to stick to commitments that I make and, over the years, I have learned to enjoy the experience more than the final results.

Each employee and student who composes our Loma Linda University Health family possesses character traits that, when exposed, may create tension or cause challenges to living or working with each other. After doing a quick search online, I found the following made the short list of qualities that some people find annoying: faux insecurity, actual insecurity, competitiveness, name dropping, entitlement, holier-than-thou, know-it-all, arrogance, rudeness and pessimism.

This list is far from exhaustive, however it serves as a wonderful contrast to what we are encouraged to do by the writer of Hebrews. The author asks us to consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds. Negative mannerisms are divisive, marginalizing and upsetting. They create division instead of unity of purpose. Scripture encourages us to intentionally contemplate ways to inspire each other to love and do good deeds. 

This is a tall order to fill on our own. At a time when it appears to be de rigueur to disagree without being disagreeable, it seems of utmost importance that we each look for ways to encourage each other and divest ourselves of those behaviors that impede us. This may be easier said than done; yet I know from personal experience that we can all change. How is this possible? 

It requires reflection, self-assessment, transparency and accountability. Look at the list of negative traits again or go online and research others. Next, take some time to soul search. Are you in possession of some of these attributes? If the answer is yes, today is a good day to repurpose them. Do you know anyone who has those behaviors? Perhaps you are in a position to encourage them to evaluate and change. It begins with you and I working together with God’s help to become men and women who reflect the love and character of Jesus Christ.

You might be wondering if I am going to disclose my character trait. It’s confession time: I am prideful. This pride has been showing up lately in my wanting to have the last word or be right. I have become aware through reflection that I have been defensive when I should have been open to new ideas. I have also reacted when I should have listened. I confess it has been humbling to discover that I’m not perfect. With God’s help and the accountability of my co-workers, family and friends, I am listening more and talking less.

We can’t do this on our own, so I’m inviting you to join me in trusting God to help each of us become creative in encouraging each other to practice love and good deeds.

Dilys Brooks, MDiv

Associate campus chaplain 

Loma Linda University

]]>
Thu, 13 Apr 2017 15:18:50 -0700
4264:30324 <![CDATA[Registration open for PossAbilities Triathlon]]> Briana Pastorino Calling all athletes: the 15th annual PossAbilities & Quest Kids Triathlon is happening Sunday, April 23, at Loma Linda University Drayson Center, 25040 Stewart Street.

The triathlon is known for bringing together families, friends and community members to have fun and stay healthy at the same time, according to PossAbilities director Pedro Payne, PhD.

“What makes this triathlon unique is that you see challenged and able-bodied athletes as well as U.S. veterans competing on the same field,” Payne said.

Registration opens at 5:30 a.m., and the adult triathlon and 5K start at 7 a.m. 

The adult triathlon’s three segments begin with a 5K (3.1 mile) run/walk/roll, then an 11-mile bike ride and finally the 150-yard swim. View the adult triathlon course map for details.

For athletes who aren’t feeling up to the full triathlon, they can participate in just the 5k run/walk/roll. 

Mascot Bernie from the Inland Empire 66ers will host a warmup for the children’s race at 9 a.m. The kid’s portion of this year’s event is named in honor of PossAbilities’ title sponsor, Quest Diagnostics.

The kids triathlon is composed of an obstacle course that boasts a quarter-mile run/walk/roll, a quarter-mile bike ride and a 25-yard swim in the Drayson Center pool.

Finisher medals will be given to all participants.

Register and learn more, or call 909-558-6634.

PossAbilities, powered by Quest Diagnostics, is a free, nonprofit, community outreach program operated by Loma Linda University Health. The goal of PossAbilities is to provide those with permanent physical disabilities support and resources to stay active and healthy in life.

 

Photo below: PossAbilities members Andre Barbieri, left, and Zimri Solis, along with hundreds of other participants, run, walk and roll through the streets of Loma Linda during the PossAbilities Triathlon in 2015.

]]>
Thu, 13 Apr 2017 15:21:22 -0700
4264:30327 <![CDATA[Compliance training opens with improved course functionality]]> Jennifer White and Heather Reifsnyder As a trusted health care provider, Loma Linda University Health is committed to integrity in its relationships with patients, payors, vendors and among employees. To help ensure this, the organization requires employees to take compliance training annually.

The 2017 training period began April 10 and ends Oct. 31. Employees of the following entities are required to complete the online courses: LLU Medical Center, Children’s Hospital, Behavioral Medicine Center, Medical Center – Murrieta, Shared Services, Health Care, School of Dentistry, Faculty Practice Plan, Health Education Consortium, and SAC Health System.

To better serve employees, the compliance courses have a new look and feel this year. 

New features

Updated course content and navigation: The training is composed of a library of short individual courses (five to 20 minutes in length) instead of a single long course.

Pre-exemption assessments: Learners will be allowed to demonstrate specific knowledge of a topic in order to skip the course associated with that topic. This feature replaces the annual-update model. The passing score for the pre-exemption assessment is 100 percent; otherwise the learner will be presented with the course content and the post-quiz questions. The post-quiz passing score is 80 percent.

Take a break:Learners can delay the auto-logoff period by up to 30 minutes.

Content review and proof of completion: Employees can review training content and print a certificate of completion at any time. 

Mobile friendly: Employees can take the training on mobile devices using these supported browsers: Apple Safari for iOS 7+ or Google Chrome for Android 4+.

What is required? And when?

All staff have been assigned and auto-enrolled into their job-specific courses. Invitations have been emailed from OwlPortal@llu.edu containing links to each employee’s required trainings.

Automatic reminders will be sent by the Owl Portal when each learner’s previous-year completion date (training anniversary) approaches. Although learners are encouraged to take the 2017 training by their training anniversary date, the absolute deadline for completion is Oct. 31, 2017.

Individuals who do not complete the required training by Oct. 31 will be prohibited from rendering any clinical and/or administrative services until such time as the required training is completed.

For training requirements to be marked complete, staff must finish all required courses as assigned, which may include:

• Corporate/professional compliance
• HIPAA compliance
• Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services general compliance

“Our employees, physicians, students and volunteers are valued and essential members of the team who ensure that Loma Linda University Health is a highly respected institution in our community,” said Linda Mason, MD, chief compliance officer. “Thank you for remaining up to date with compliance requirements.”

Instructions

Please do not attempt to enroll yourself or your employees/physicians into the compliance training courses. Required courses have already been assigned based on job code.

Access the training courses via one of the following methods:

OWL Portal
Online Classroom (Moodle)
• Click the links in your notification emails from OwlPortal@llu.edu with the subject line “Enrollment in CE online course.”

OWL and Moodle usernames and passwords are the same as network/email usernames and passwords.

Step-by-step instructions are available on the Office of Corporate Compliance webpage.

Questions?

For password resets, please contact the Help Desk at:

• 909-558-4000 ext. 48889 for main campus
• 951-890-4357 for Loma Linda – Murrieta
• 909-558-4000 ext. 48611 for LLU 

For help with the OWL or Moodle portals, contact Staff Development at 909-558-4000, ext. 33500.

For questions about course content, contact the Office of Corporate Compliance at 909-558-6458 or ext. 66458.

 

]]>
Thu, 13 Apr 2017 15:29:13 -0700
4264:30191 <![CDATA[New Las Vegas clinic to serve liver patients]]> Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Health is now meeting a medical need in neighboring Nevada. 

The state of Nevada does not currently have a liver transplant program, according to Juan Ramirez Jr., director of referral and business development for the Loma Linda University Transplantation Institute. 

He said, “Many Loma Linda patients reside in Nevada and drive to Loma Linda for their regular clinic appointments, and we wanted to find a way to provide care to these patients in their own community.”

LLU Transplantation Institute recently opened a satellite clinic in Las Vegas for comprehensive liver disease management to care for these patients.

The Transplantation Institute serves adult and pediatric patients not only from the Inland Empire and Southern California, but also Central California, Las Vegas and beyond. The institute performs heart, kidney, liver and pancreas transplants.

The Las Vegas liver clinic opened its doors in February, allowing patients the opportunity to see their hepatology care team in their own community, ultimately decreasing the number of trips they make to Loma Linda.

General hepatology care, such as treatment of viral hepatitis, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, is offered in addition to serving liver transplant patients. Patients who may need a liver transplant will still make periodic visits to Loma Linda, including for the operation itself.

The 2,182-square-foot clinic offers five exam rooms and is staffed five days a week, by nurse practitioner Inna Goldvarg, APRN, who brings years of experience in hepatology care. Michael Volk, MD, medical director for liver care at LLU Transplantation Institute, supervises the clinic and cares for patients weekly via videoconference and monthly in person.

Located at 2020 Goldring Ave., Suite 506, Las Vegas, the clinic can be called at 702-823-0004.

]]>
Thu, 06 Apr 2017 12:38:15 -0700
4264:30203 <![CDATA['Live It: In the Kitchen']]> By Briana Pastorino Loma Linda University Health is taking its motto, “To make man whole,” into the kitchen with a new online cooking show, “Live It: In the Kitchen.

The series of 13 short episodes debuted at liveitlomalinda.org April 4. Every Tuesday an episode will be featured on the Loma Linda University Health Facebook page. The videos are about a minute in length. 

The show inspires healthy, wholesome home cooking and demonstrates quick and easy recipes to keep people of all ages satisfied. 

“People tend to turn to meals that are quick and easy to prepare, but ultimately low in nutritional value,” said Chef Cory Gheen, MS, RD, from Loma Linda University School of Allied Health Professions’ Department of Nutrition and Dietetics. “‘Live It: in the Kitchen’ aims to show that great-tasting food can be good for your body and easy to prepare.”

Additionally, each episode will have chef tips that relate to the recipe on the website, such as how to cut a bell pepper or deseed a pomegranate.

The show and recipes will also be available in Spanish. 

Produced by Loma Linda University Health, “Live It: In the Kitchen” is a collaborative effort between Loma Linda University’s Schools of Allied Health Professions and Public Health as well as Loma Linda University Health’s Office of Advancement Films. 

The all-vegetarian recipes were collected and adapted for the series by Chef Cory, who is professionally trained and has over 25 years of experience. Chef Cory brings a passion for food to his classroom, and, through the show, to anyone who wants to learn. He aims to raise the bar for quality, nutritionally focused cooking.

The show’s recipes include dark chocolate pomegranate bark, no-bake energy bites, carrot soup, white bean chili and avocado fettuccine.

]]>
Thu, 06 Apr 2017 14:14:09 -0700
4264:30206 <![CDATA[GRASP research awards expand to include non-MD clinicians]]> By Heather Reifsnyder and Jim Ponder To expand the number of faculty members and health care professionals who participate in extramurally funded research, Loma Linda University Health began offering Grants for Research and School Partnerships (GRASP) awards in 2010.

Starting with the 2017 application cycle, the GRASP program will allow non-MD health care providers from LLU Medical Center or Faculty Medical Group to participate. To qualify, the non-MD clinicians must have an advanced degree.

To apply for a GRASP award, the research project under consideration must be led by two co-principal investigators who work in different parts of Loma Linda University Health.

The pairs must include:

• Two faculty members from different schools at Loma Linda University, or

• One school faculty member and one health care provider from Loma Linda University Faculty Medical Group, or

• One school faculty member and one health care provider from Loma Linda University Medical Center.

A fourth GRASP opportunity debuting in 2017 is designed to foster international collaboration. For this opportunity, the co-principal investigator pair must include one school faculty member from Loma Linda University and one post-baccalaureate professional employed by an international hospital, medical center, college or university that is part of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

2017 application deadlines

Applications are due Monday, Oct. 10, at 5 p.m. Pacific time.

Previous to that, letters of intent are due on the following target dates:

• For faculty/Faculty Practice Group specialist pairs, faculty/Medical Center specialist pairs, and faculty/international pairs – Monday, Aug. 14, at 5 p.m. Pacific time

• For LLU faculty pairs – Monday, Sept. 18, at 5 p.m. Pacific time

For full details of eligibility and criteria for evaluation, visit the GRASP webpage.

2016 awardees

The $75,000, 24-month GRASP awards for 2016 went to the following teams at Loma Linda University:

  • Lisa Roberts, DrPH, associate professor at the School of Nursing, and Susanne Montgomery, PhD, associate dean and professor at the School of Behavioral Health
  • Kristopher Boyle, PhD, assistant professor at the School of Pharmacy, and Eileen Brantley, PhD, assistant professor at the School of Medicine
  • Ellen D’Errico, PhD, associate professor at the School of Nursing, and Gayathri Nagaraj, MBBS, assistant professor at the School of Medicine.

Roberts’ and Montgomery’s study — titled “Understanding health and emotional responses and perceptions of Asian-Indian needs” — will focus on a mindfulness-based stress-reduction intervention designed to help Asian-Indian immigrant women living in the United States cope with challenging social-adjustment situations that predispose them to elevated levels of anxiety and depression.

Boyle’s and Brantley’s study — titled “AhR agonist analogs as novel agents to treat refractory breast cancer” — seeks to test a potential treatment for the deadly disease which, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, currently kills approximately 40,000 women per year in the United States alone.

D’Errico’s and Nagaraj’s study — titled “Intraneural facilitation: managing chemotherapy-indirect peripheral neuropathy” — will evaluate the effectiveness of a novel, non-invasive, physical therapy treatment for a painful, irritating and sometimes serious side effect of chemotherapy in breast cancer patients. 

 

]]>
Thu, 06 Apr 2017 14:27:42 -0700
4264:30208 <![CDATA[Opportunity to participate in focus groups]]> Employees may be contacted by phone or email for an opportunity to participate.

Loma Linda University Health is conducting a thorough, objective assessment of internal communication endeavors.

As part of this engagement, several employee focus groups — made up of a randomized selection of employees from all areas of the Loma Linda University Health enterprise — will be conducted to evaluate internal communication processes, existing publications and other media.

The purpose of these interviews is to encourage candid conversations about strengths and opportunities for positive change regarding internal communications. 

Every employee who is contacted can choose whether he or she wishes to participate. The focus groups will take place on one of the following dates: April 25, 26 or 27, along with an additional week in May. 

Loma Linda University Health truly values input from its employees. Thank you for your commitment to excellence.

]]>
Thu, 06 Apr 2017 14:31:11 -0700
4264:30218 <![CDATA[Notes from the President -- Sharing our values]]> Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   April 2017
Being distinctive or being inclusive?

“Richard

Homecoming Weekend was a wonderful few days, with over 2,000 back on campus from years past. For all the things that could have gone wrong, including the weather, it was an amazingly successful time. Many thanks go to Janya Mekelburg and her team from each of the schools who planned carefully for many eventualities. While we learned how to do some things better next year, there was no question that this needs to be an annual event at Loma Linda. There were so many positive comments from those who saw old friends, which would not have happened in the old format. From the Friday night story of our involvement with San Bernardino over 100 years, to Saturday morning at Drayson with music, stories, and Randy Roberts’ inspiring sermon, to the many class and special groups Saturday afternoon and evening, to the Mission Vespers, and finally “Loma Linda’s Got Talent” Saturday night, it was very meaningful to so many. So thanks to the many who came and you all are welcome next year, March 2-5.

“randyroberts”

I have recently returned from a more sobering meeting with the presidents and senior officers of the 13 colleges and universities owned by the Adventist Church in the U.S. and Canada. These are stalwart institutions, many over 100 years old, with storied pasts and proud cultures. There is great camaraderie among this group, as issues are shared and trends observed. But there are also storm clouds on the horizon, which has already claimed one of our institutions, Atlantic Union College near Boston, and has some threats for all of us. It is partly national demographics, with declining students reaching college age across the country, and partly changing patterns of education, with more online educational options. But for most faith-based institutions, Adventist and others, even stronger concerns are emerging. Both tuition costs and family dynamics are keeping many likely students at home, searching for low-cost community options. And so over the past five years, our collective enrollment in the U.S. Adventist higher education system has dropped about 2 percent a year, from nearly 29,000 in 2012 to 24,369 this year, a loss of over 9 percent. Similar trends are occurring in other private and public educational systems across the country. It is not panic time, but it does require some rethinking of our priorities and strategies.

“homecoming

So once again we spent several days analyzing, talking, and strategizing about what our next steps should be. There is a general sense that we are in this together even though there is certainly some competition among the institutions. Should we merge some campuses, knowing there would be strong local opposition to any talk of that? Do we share courses or limit academic offerings to save faculty costs, or cut extracurricular activities, which is our sweet spot for value added experiences? Through the years we have established task forces to work on options, but have had trouble reaching any consensus. We have also spent hundreds of thousands of marketing dollars annually trying to attract prospective Adventist students from high schools and elsewhere that might be interested in our programs. But still the trends are downward.

Many religious educational systems in this country started out rather exclusive, selecting students from their own church. But for most denominations, these boundaries have gradually relaxed over the decades. The Adventist Church has been one of the last to welcome students from other faith persuasions. Now these new pressures are forcing us to ask some fundamental questions – should we share our unique educational environment and philosophy with others who want to learn? The world is searching for authenticity today, for core values that have meaning and provide a foundation for life’s complex issues. We have those. We have a philosophy of education that has stood the test of time, and has demonstrated through the lives of thousands that real meaning in life comes from a healthy lifestyle and commitment to service. Isn’t this what the world is looking for today?

But wait a minute you say, I want my kid to be in a protected, somewhat homogenous campus. Cultural diversity is okay, but religious diversity? Will they pick up the “wrong” beliefs, marry someone “outside” the faith, drift from what I have taught them at home? Let me be frank – they are already doing that! Our current techniques are not working very well! Perhaps it is time to be more distinctive while also being more open and inclusive. Perhaps we have come to the world for such a time as this. Instead of being protective, should we be open and sharing?

To do this well, we must be comfortable with who we are. We can’t bury our uniqueness, but rather need to feature it. As one of a very few faith-based academic health science centers in the country, Loma Linda has been attractive to students from all faiths for years. They want a spiritual environment, a nurturing presence that openly talks about God and faith, about the role of spirituality in our lives and professions. It is hard to deny them the privilege of being part of our campus and benefiting from this milieu. Does this run some risks? Absolutely! But not doing it runs risks as well. Our experience at Loma Linda has been that these students from other faith traditions make our campus more whole and vibrant as they search out spiritual values and understandings.

So my colleagues at many Adventist and other Christian institutions are asking the tough question – has the time come when we should openly invite students of other faiths to join our campuses as we look to share our message and strengthen our academic offerings? Our institutions can each speak for themselves, but the consensus seems to be emerging that this may be our best option, a time for uncovering our light and brightening the world. It will certainly require careful planning to preserve what is core to our campuses, including finding faculty who are comfortable with their beliefs. Can we be inclusive while still being distinctive?

Cordially yours,

“Richard

 

 

 

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President, Loma Linda University Health

]]>
Thu, 06 Apr 2017 15:21:47 -0700
4264:30128 <![CDATA[A lifelong competitor's goal? To lose big time]]> Nancy Yuen Bryan Solis lives to compete. Inspired by the desire to make healthier choices, he created a weight loss competition for staff in his department, Information Services (IS). Participating departments now include Information Services, Cable TV and Media Services, Clinical Engineering and Communication Network Services.

The result? As many as 37 employees have weighed in to participate in bi-yearly, six-week competitions inspired by NBC’s The Biggest Loser.

“I began thinking about making better food choices at work when Loma Linda University Health installed healthy vending machines on campus. I organized the competition to encourage healthy nutrition and exercise that would help participants reduce their weight,” he said.

Competitors encourage each other to have fun, eat healthy meals and exercise. The event also serves as a fundraiser with first-place winners donating funds raised to charity. While there is a $30 registration fee, participants who finish having lost five percent of their total weight are refunded $25.

Cake and donuts in office kitchens are replaced by food made from healthy recipes, and camaraderie grows as staff take daily walks, breaking up long hours spent sitting at their computers. “The walking group is completing approximately 8,000 steps each per day, or about four miles,” Solis said.

After work, some play tennis or participate in other sports. This all leads up to weigh-ins with weekly updates about leaders and cumulative pounds lost.   

The top three biggest losers for 2017’s first competition are Leslee Cook with 10.2% of body weight lost; Eric Morales, 8.76 % of body weight lost and Joni Colburn, 6.8 % of body weight lost.

“I truly enjoyed the pep talks, the healthy tips, the walks and the surprising competitiveness that sparked in the final weeks. Without you, I would not have had the honor of choosing the charity for our donation,” Cook said in an email to her coworkers. Cook chose 1st Call 4 Cancer, a charity started by a family friend whose husband had lost his battle with cancer. 

Previous biggest loser Angie Frantz (2015) donated $420 raised to Operation Smile which helped two children receive cleft lip/cleft palate repair surgery. Eric Morales, who won in 2016, donated $645 to the Aysia Hillyer Memorial Fund to help cover funeral costs incurred by an IS team member. 

]]>
Thu, 30 Mar 2017 15:05:37 -0700
4264:30130 <![CDATA['The Big Pour' was a big success -- see photos]]> Heather Reifsnyder It was far from a typical quiet Saturday night in Loma Linda on March 25.

At 10 p.m., a complicated choreography began as concrete trucks, one after another after another, poured their loads for the foundation of the future hospital complex at Loma Linda University Health.

The all-night process took 10 and a half hours, during which 85 trucks delivered 540 concrete loads to the site, traveling back and forth from Robertson’s Ready Mix to Loma Linda until the job was done.

By Sunday morning, 5,400 cubic yards of concrete were in place, completing the first third of the foundation. Two more “Big Pours” will soon finish the four-foot-thick slab. 

On site to witness the milestone was Eric Schilt, assistant vice president of construction for Loma Linda University Medical Center. 

“Overall, the pour was very successful. There is a tremendous amount of coordination that goes into a pour of this size, and the project team did an excellent job planning and executing it,” Schilt said.

“Also of critical significance was the fact that there were no unplanned disruptions to hospital operations. On behalf of our team, I say thank you to our staff, patients and visitors for putting up with our noise!”

Schilt and numerous, numerous others from Loma Linda University Health and JTec Healthcare Construction Management have planned for years to reach this highpoint.

“A pour such as this is one is a rare opportunity to see significant progress in a single long shift,” Schilt said. “With a project this big and this long it can be difficult to see measurable progress on a daily basis. The pour was fun to watch.” 

Construction progress can be followed on three webcams. Additionally, interested individuals can visit the second floor corridor between the Medical Center and Children’s Hospital for a good vantage point through the large windows.

Those doing so may just find Medial Center CEO Kerry Heinrich taking in the view as well.

“Look carefully at the glass,” he recently said. “You’ll see my nose print there because I try to go up there as often as I can. I love watching the progress of our campus transformation and our new hospital towers.

“They will allow us to meet the needs of our growing community for many decades to come, offering a state-of-the-art facility for us to practice our special brand of whole person care,” Heinrich said.

The towers will meet California’s stringent seismic building requirements for hospitals. 

Support for the hospital construction effort is a significant component of  Vision 2020: The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow, a $360 million comprehensive fundraising initiative to support priorities in clinical care, education, research and

wholeness. Vision 2020 is the largest philanthropic campaign in the history of Loma Linda University Health and also represents the largest investment in health care and education in the Inland Empire.

]]>
Thu, 30 Mar 2017 17:07:38 -0700
4264:30145 <![CDATA[Four video perspectives of ''The Big Pour' ]]> A significant milestone is documented in the videos below of Loma Linda University Health’s construction of a new hospital complex by 2020. The foundation slab for the new structure began to take shape on the night of March 25-26, as 85 trucks delivered 5,400 cubic yards of concrete in 10 and a half hours.

• Scenes of the complex choreography from night to morning — 1 minute 30 seconds:

• 17-second time-lapse from ground-level, looking down into the pit: 

• Up-close scenes from bottom of the pit — 36 seconds:

• 52-second time-lapse from roof level:

 

 

 

]]>
Thu, 30 Mar 2017 17:10:19 -0700
4264:30146 <![CDATA[Benefit enhancement: AHRP vesting to begin sooner]]> Heather Reifsnyder The Department of Human Resource Management announced good news this week that will enhance financial wellness for employees of Loma Linda University Health who are part of the Adventist Healthcare Retirement Plan (AHRP). Most employees of the organization — apart from the university, LLU Health Care and Faculty Medical Group — fall under this plan.

Effective March 16, the vesting requirement for the plan is now three years, reduced from five. Vesting means that an employee retains the employer contributions to their retirement fund even if they leave employment after the required years of service. 

“This is a significant benefit enhancement that will have a positive impact on potentially 4,412 of our employees at Loma Linda University Health,” said Renée Royer, executive director of benefits and compensation in Human Resource Management. 

 

All employees potentially impacted by this change were sent an email from Benefits@llu.edu regarding their personal situation. 

Employees with 0-2 years of vesting service were informed they will have a shorter vesting period. Employees with 3 to 4 years of vesting service were informed they will become immediately vested. This benefit enhancement does not change the status of already vested employees.

This change is designed to further support the financial well-being of employees. 

“This vesting change demonstrates that we are investing in the future of our employees as they continue to serve Loma Linda,” Royer said. “In addition, these changes bring us in better alignment with the market and will support our recruitment efforts as we strive to find the right talent to serve our patients and operational needs.”  

To learn more, download the FAQ document below, or contacting Human Resource Management at ext. 14001 or humanresources@llu.edu

The reduced vesting period comes on the heals of another recent benefit enhancement for employees under AHRP: Loma Linda University Health increased the percentage that it will contribute to match employer contributions up to half of six percent (previously half of four percent maximum). Learn more in a News of the Week story from February announcing that change.

]]>
Thu, 30 Mar 2017 17:15:48 -0700
4264:30149 <![CDATA[New assistant VP to lead operations for LLU Shared Services]]> Heather Reifsnyder Joining the executive team for Loma Linda University Shared Services is Alice Wongworawat, MBA, as assistant vice president for operations. LLU Shared Services provides support to all entities of Loma Linda University Health.

Wongworawat has worked for Loma Linda University since 2006 in various roles. She is currently associate dean for finance and administration in the School of Medicine and vice president for academic resource planning for the LLU Faculty Medical Group. Additionally, during the past several months, she has begun providing oversight for LLU’s printing and retail services. 

Wongworawat will continue with these roles in addition to her new leadership position in Shared Services. 

“Alice’s knowledge of the Loma Linda University Health enterprise, her passion and skills for operations, and her strong relationships within entities across campus will help drive performance improvement, service excellence and customer satisfaction,” said Kevin Lang, MBA, president of LLU Shared Services and executive vice president of finance and administration/CFO of Loma Linda University Health.

“Please join me in welcoming and supporting Alice as she serves in her new role,” Lang said.

Prior to working at Loma Linda, Wongworawat managed operations of her family’s import and manufacturing business. She holds an MBA with an emphasis in marketing from California State University, San Bernardino.

]]>
Thu, 30 Mar 2017 17:18:38 -0700
4264:30151 <![CDATA[Survey to measure hospital employee workplace satisfaction]]> Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Medical Center (including East Campus and Surgical Hospital), Children’s Hospital and Behavioral Medicine Center will participate this year in Modern Healthcare’s “Best Places to Work in Healthcare” survey.

“Whether or not it leads to Loma Linda being recognized, the survey will be helpful as we continue the process of creating the best workplace possible,” said Lizette Norton, vice president for Human Resource Management.

The 10-to-15 minute, confidential survey will allow a randomly selected group of employees to share feedback about their place of work that Norton says will be invaluable.

On March 31, randomly selected employees will receive a survey invitation in their email from Surveys@BestCompaniesGroup.com with the subject line “Best Places to Work in Healthcare — Employee Survey.” Reminders will follow on April 5, 10 and 14.

Those who receive invitations are requested not to forward it to other employees, as each invitation contains unique access information that can only be used once.

At the close of the survey, Loma Linda will receive topline reports that summarize organizational competencies and the relationships that most directly impact and influence its unique culture.

“This is a chance to make your voice heard, and a high response rate helps ensure an accurate representation of our community,” Norton said. “This will help us immensely as we strive to continue our legacy of being a preferred employer.”

The survey is voluntary and confidential: Loma Linda will not be able to trace results back to individuals. The survey results will be processed by Best Companies Group, a division of Journal Multimedia that focuses on identifying and recognizing the best employers across the country.

“We hope you will take this opportunity to share your honest feedback,” Norton said. “Thank you, in advance, for your participation as we ‘continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ.’”

If you have questions, please contact David Conkerite at dconkerite@llu.edu or ext. 14671.

The survey, coincidently, follows Loma Linda University Health’s national ranking on employment website Indeed.com as one of the best places to work in the health care industry according to Indeed.com.

Loma Linda University Health ranked 25th among all hospitals and health systems in the United States based on reviews by employees.

Learn more in the previous News of the Week story about the ranking.

]]>
Thu, 30 Mar 2017 17:20:33 -0700
4264:30153 <![CDATA[Equal concern for all]]> Terry Swenson Have equal concern for each other.” –I Corinthians 12:25

“Daddy, which one of us is your favorite?”

I looked up from my task at hand and saw four sets of concerned children’s eyes awaiting my decision. My three daughters and my son had been in a heated dispute as to just who the favored child was. They had, each in turn, given a list of their cardinal virtues and skill sets that surely made them the obvious choice. When consensus could not be met, they turned to their father to settle it once and for all. 

“Who is the favorite?” 

I know that God is a God of mercy, not just because the Bible tells me so, but because of the myriad ways He has shown me mercy and demonstrated it in my life. At that parental moment, He showed me mercy and inspired my answer” “ALL of you are my favorite! Each one of you is special and unique. I love you all equally.”

Smiles broke out on satisfied faces. Chalk up one for Dad. Did I tell them the truth? Absolutely! I love them at all times. Now, there are times when I might not like what they do or how they act, but I will always love them equally and uniquely (though they do stretch it at times!).

When I read 1 Corinthians 12:25, certain words jump out at me — words that resonate for all of us at Loma Linda University Health no matter where we work within the organization.

The first word is “concern.” To be concerned about someone means that they have become the focus of my attention. Something that is happening to them, something that they are doing, or something that they are facing becomes of such interest to me that I focus on it, see ways to help them and act upon it. Scripture is telling us that, if we are to become like Jesus and become one with each other, we need to look beyond only the things that concern ourselves and reach out to meet the concerns of those around us.

Yet, in this scriptural text, there is a qualifying word attached to concern. It is “equal.” The dictionary cites three aspects in defining this word. The first is sameness in quantity, size, degree or value. Our concern, focus and action for others is supposed to be given in an equal value and degree. The second definition means considering a person to have the same status and quality as someone else.

In all honesty, there are some people we more readily focus our concern and actions on because of their role in our lives — family, friend, coworker, supervisor or administrator. In 1 Corinthians, we are called to view all individuals with equal concern independent of race, social and economical status, gender and so forth. That sounds wonderful! But how can we create an environment like that?

How can we personally have an equal concern for each other? The third definition of “equal” gives us the answer: able to meet a challenge — being equal to the task. 

The resources that will enable us to have equal concern for each other come from Christ — His love, His example, His leading and His enabling us to see others, love others and focus on their needs. 

That is part and parcel of fulfilling our mission to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ.

Terry Swenson, DMin
Campus chaplain
Loma Linda University

]]>
Thu, 30 Mar 2017 17:24:15 -0700
4264:30054 <![CDATA[Blessed to serve]]> By Kathy McMillan  

“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others …” –1 Peter 4:10 

Looking around Loma Linda University Health, I see a host of individuals who are amazingly gifted. Part of the beauty of this place is that each member of our team has such varied talents.

One employee may warmly welcome visitors to the campus, sharing the providential history of our beginnings. Another is in a back room crunching numbers, happily out of the public eye. Professors teach a seemingly endless variety of classes, instilling a love for learning in their students. Physicians and a myriad of clinical staff stand on holy ground as patients begin life and others end life each day. Our campus is the workplace for hundreds of professions, with each member of the team using the gifts they have been given to perform their job.

You may remember taking tests in high school that helped to predict what line of work would be best suited for you. Often, a list of questions would produce several appropriate professions for you to consider. These tests took into account your preferences, strengths and areas for growth. Many of us likely followed the suggested pathways to find our life’s work. The questionnaires helped us identify job categories where we might best utilize our strengths.

What a gift that there are so many personalities and temperaments! Most of us could think of several jobs on campus that we are grateful someone else is doing. And others are likely thankful that they don’t have to do our job. God has gifted each of us with a unique set of traits and skills. But those talents that He gives us are not simply for our own pleasure.

When Jesus sent His twelve disciples out to minister to the hurting, He gave them this admonition: “Freely you have received; freely give.” (Matthew 10:8) God gives us gifts with explicit instructions that we are to use those gifts to bless others. None of us has everything that our students or our patients need. But when we work together, our gifts blend with others on the team so that we create a seamless experience for those who come to us for care or for education.

Kathy McMillan, MA
Director of employee spiritual care
Loma Linda University Medical Center

]]>
Thu, 23 Mar 2017 14:09:54 -0700
4264:30056 <![CDATA[Come one, come all: spring chapel schedule ]]> Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University’s chapel services offer inspiration weekly to students, faculty and other interested individuals.

As spring quarter begins next week, consider making time in your calendar for the following times and presenters. Services meet at Loma Linda University Church on Wednesdays from 11–11:50 a.m., and every weekday at the same time during Week of Renewal.

March 29: California Baptist University
Week of Renewal, April 3–7: James Doggette
April 12: Gilda Roddy
April 19: Andrea Trusty King
April 26: Tara Vincross
May 3: Sara Martinez and Sandra Banjoko
May 10: Individual school chapels (Information to come from each school)
May 17: Terry Swenson 

These services will explore the theme of the never-ending story of God’s outpouring of the Holy Spirit in Jerusalem and God’s continuing desire to stay intimately connected with humanity until He returns.

Chapel is also broadcast live each week online

]]>
Thu, 23 Mar 2017 14:12:38 -0700
4264:30061 <![CDATA[Emergency water -- 12 Months of Preparedness]]> By Ehren Ngo The 12 Months of Preparedness project helps employees, students and the community have a personal/family disaster plan in place by the end of 2017. Each month, a new step is discussed.

The March focus is emergency water, which is essential for survival.

Most people cannot survive without water for longer than 3-5 days. In a disaster, expect damage or interruption to the water supply.

This means you will need to provide clean drinking water for yourself, your family and even your pets for an extended period of time. Being educated on this subject is crucial in preparing for any potential disaster.

As a general rule of thumb, the amount of water required for each individual or pet is one gallon of water per day. Enough water for a minimum of three days needs to be available, but it is best to have a week’s worth or more.

There are various methods of storing water. Bottled water is probably the easiest and safest method, but there are multiple other options available (plastic jerry cans, water barrels, intermediate bulk containers). The type of water bottle or container will determine the shelf life of the water before it’s time to replace the H2O. 

In emergency situations there are also alternative sources of water available in your home. Emptying the water heater, draining the water pipes if you live in a two-story home and even collecting the water in your toilet tanks may be safe options.

In situations where water is available but considered unsafe to drink, there are various methods for water treatment. Boiling, disinfecting with chlorine bleach and filtering are all options that can be utilized. However, all these options have limitations, and making sure that you have adequate amounts of commercially prepared or stored water is the safest way to ensure access to and availability of drinkable water.

For further specifics and instructions, visit the 12 Months of Preparedness March page.

Also brush up on the January and February topics: family disaster plans and disaster preparedness kits.

]]>
Thu, 23 Mar 2017 14:18:20 -0700
4264:30059 <![CDATA[Get moving: Family Fitness Fun 5k Run/Walk & Expo ]]> By Briana Pastorino and Jim Ponder The Big Hearts for Little Hearts Loma Linda Guild is hosting its third annual Family Fitness Fun 5k Run/Walk & Expo on Sunday, April 2, at Burrage Mansion, 1205 W. Crescent Ave., Redlands, 92373.

Check-in starts at 7 a.m., and the 5K run/walk begins at 8 a.m. It will start at the mansion, go through the streets of Redlands and end back at the mansion, where the health expo will be held.

Over 25 exhibitors will offer a variety of products and services that can enhance family fitness and health. There will also be several children’s activities, including an obstacle course, golf lessons and snow cone making.

Former Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital patient Alex Miller, age 10, of Redlands, will be the guest of honor. He was born with a severe congenital heart defect, but thanks to five open-heart surgeries Alex now has a healthy heart and leads an active life. He participated in last year’s run and is looking forward to running again this year. 

 “I liked running with my family and friends last year,” Miller said. “I think I did pretty good. My mom timed me at 40 minutes, but I’m going to try to beat that this year.”

The Big Hearts for Little Hearts Loma Linda Guild is committed to supporting the children treated at LLU Children’s Hospital by developing programs and projects that address the critical needs of these children and their families. The Loma Linda Guild was the first and original chapter, formed back in 1999. Since its inception, the guild has raised over $1.6 million for Children’s Hospital.

“We are so grateful to have a world-class Children’s Hospital right here in the Inland Empire, where doctors and nurses provide the finest care for our kids,” said Lynn Sleeth, president of the Loma Linda Guild. “Everything the guild does is designed to raise funds and awareness about this remarkable resource right here in our own backyard.”

For additional information or to register for the event, call 909-709-2061 or visit the event webpage.

]]>
Thu, 23 Mar 2017 14:16:10 -0700
4264:30063 <![CDATA[New stroke/aneurysm support group meets monthly]]> By Heather Reifsnyder Survivors of stroke and aneurysm, along with their families and friends, are invited to a free support group at Loma Linda University Health that meets the third Tuesday of every month from 5:30-6:30 p.m. at 25455 Barton Rd., Suite 109A, Loma Linda, 92354.

Neurosurgeon Promod Pillai Kumar, MD, leads the group.

“The group provides a forum for patients and their families affected by brain aneurysms or strokes to find support, guidance and education,” Kumar said.

He continued, “Social support is exceptionally important in the recovery process, and social isolation is a fear for many patients and families. We will not only focus on rehabilitation intervention, but also on preventive measures, community education and awareness.”

The group is an important piece of whole person care offered at Loma Linda University Health.

“Many hospitals do not offer patients and families ongoing support and rehabilitation for these conditions post discharge. It is our goal to bridge the gap, resulting in a more comprehensive support program for survivors and their families,” Kumar said. 

Spanish translation is available.

To learn more, call Xiomara Pineda at 909-558-4726.

]]>
Thu, 23 Mar 2017 14:19:54 -0700
4264:30057 <![CDATA['The Big Pour' takes place Saturday night]]> ]]> As Medical Center CEO Kerry Heinrich explains in this short video, a milestone in Campus Transformation takes place this weekend when 5,400 yards of concrete for the new hospital foundation will be poured in just 10 hours, meaning about one truckload per minute.

]]>
Thu, 23 Mar 2017 14:14:14 -0700
4264:29975 <![CDATA[You, not me, matter the most]]> Dilys Brooks “… but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves.” -Philippians 2:3

Throughout the years I have worked at Loma Linda University Health, I have had the opportunity to serve with an amazing group of men and women. They show up each day prepared to play their part in fulfilling the mission of the organization. On the days when there are challenges or hiccups, most of us in the organization are unaware of it. How is this possible? It’s because so many have been practicing the skills of selflessness, humility with an eye for excellence, compassion and service.

I remember the first time I became aware of our key text for today, above. It was challenging to think that Paul admonishes us to esteem others as more important than ourselves. This is a counterintuitive idea in a day and age when we are spending more and more time focused on ourselves. Perhaps it’s the type of work we do at Loma Linda that causes us to stay grounded and closer to the spirit of this scripture. While I think we are already doing well at serving others, we are being invited to go a step farther.

What would it look like if we saw others as more important than ourselves? How would it impact the way we speak or work with each other? I think this invitation from Paul to “see” one another with different eyes comes at an appropriate time.

We have an opportunity as a health care organization to be radically different from the world we live in. It’s hard not to be affected by the overt messaging we may hear from the world that one culture, gender, political or religious ideology, race, class, educational aptitude, pain, pride, etc. is better than another. Though we may be hesitant to admit it, this can impact the way we see our patients, students, coworkers, spouses, children, singleness, relationships and ourselves.

So how do we put others first? How do we go beyond teaching our students and residents how to connect and actually have it become ingrained in each of us? We follow Jesus. We ask Him for the ability to see and overcome the barriers that impede us from mirroring what He did for all humanity. He thought we were so important that He became one of us and loved us and then died for us. 

It’s a tall order, I know, and yet I think the men and women who work here are up for the task. My confidence comes from being not only an employee, but also the recipient on multiple occasions of quality health care, smiles, encouragement, kindness and so much more. I believe that we can, with God’s help, truly live our values with our many strengths and differences.

Dilys Brooks, MDiv
Associate campus chaplain
Loma Linda University

]]>
Thu, 16 Mar 2017 16:11:43 -0700
4264:29973 <![CDATA[Are you benefiting from SmartDollar yet?]]> Esmerelda Guerrero Employees who have not yet signed up for the SmartDollar program are missing out on interesting and valuable information regarding personal finance for every stage of life. As part of the Living Whole Wellness Program, Loma Linda University Health employees can sign up for the Dave Ramsey SmartDollar program for free.

Starting April 1 SmartDollar is launching a contest to help get one’s financial goals on track.  Participants will have the opportunity to win some money.

Entering the contest is easy. 

Log in to your SmartDollar account daily and earn a SmartDollar point each day. The points are automatically tracked in the upper right-hand corner of your screen. 

To be eligible for the contest you must create a SmartDollar account on or before March 26. Every day during April, SmartDollar will give away a $25 Amazon gift card to one user who logged in and earned a SmartDollar point that day. 

SmartDollar is a self-paced confidential program that is 100% online. This account also allows you premium access to the online budgeting tool EveryDollar.

Sign up for SmartDollar at http://myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole/financialwellness/.

Full contest rules

]]>
Thu, 16 Mar 2017 16:09:58 -0700
4264:29977 <![CDATA[Changes to shuttle routes ]]> Effective April 3, shuttle services at Loma Linda University Health will implement new developments including changing pick-up and drop-off locations that do not meet city codes, adding three new stops and installing new signage at other stops.

The changes are as follows.

White route: The shuttle stop at Centennial Complex will move to the loading and unloading zone on the north side of the building. A bench and awning will be placed there. Additionally, the Coleman stop is being relocated to University Court.

Purple route: The bus will no longer drive into the Coleman parking lot. The shuttle will instead pick up and drop off passengers at the OMNI stop by the exit driveway to the Coleman parking lot. Additionally, the shuttle stops at Caroline Street and LLUH 101 Building will both be moved to the east side of those buildings.

Blue route: The Campus Hill Church stop has replaced the Nichol Hall stop. University Court will be the new drop-off and pick-up location for the School of Dentistry. The bus will no longer drive into the School of Dentistry parking lot.

Red route: A new shuttle canopy will be installed at the Medical Center stop.

Green Route: The East Campus hospital stop has been relocated to the east side of the same parking lot to meet city code.

Questions? Please contact Dominic Reichmuth in transportation services at ext. 53022 or Dreichmuth@llu.edu.

 

 

]]>
Thu, 16 Mar 2017 16:13:11 -0700
4264:29981 <![CDATA[New VP for human resource management]]> There is a new vice president at Loma Linda University Health.

“We are pleased to announce that the Board of Trustees has appointed Lizette Norton to the role of vice president for human resource management,” said Kevin Lang, MBA, and Mark Hubbard in a statement. They are, respectively, executive vice president for finance and administration and senior vice president for risk management and human resource management.

For the past year, Norton served as assistant VP for human resource management.  She also served in that role nine years from 2001 to 2010.  

Since returning to Loma Linda University Health, Norton has initiated a number of process changes to improve customer service and increase the effectiveness of human resource management functions.

“Lizette has provided outstanding leadership and developed a strong Human Resource Management team who are dedicated to serving all of our employees,” Hubbard and Lang said. “Please join us in congratulating Lizette and expressing thanks for the leadership that she provides in support of our employees and our mission.” 

]]>
Thu, 16 Mar 2017 16:15:59 -0700
4264:29985 <![CDATA[LLU neurosurgery professor briefs congressional caucus ]]> Heather Reifsnyder When the U.S. Congressional Neuroscience Caucus hosted the sixth annual Brain Mapping Day briefing March 8 in Washington, D.C., a Loma Linda University professor was one of only seven experts from across the nation who spoke.

Warren Boling Jr., MD, chair of neurosurgery at Loma Linda University Health, illuminated the topic of “Intraoperative Brain Mapping for Brain Tumor and Epilepsy.”

Much of what he presented he drew from Loma Linda’s data about the rapidly evolving use of functional MRI and diffusion tensor imaging to make brain surgery safer and more effective.

“We had a good reception from our legislative members who attended and then had excellent follow up conversations with staff members for California Sen. Kamala Harris,” Boling said.

“We also had a wonderful meeting with U.S. Rep Pete Aguilar, talking about Loma Linda University Health and the great things we’re doing for the Inland Empire.” 

The other speakers at the briefing also presented “groundbreaking and forward-thinking advances in the neurosciences,” Boling said.

He is also president-elect for the Society for Brain Mapping and Therapeutics, which organized the meeting. His one-year term will begin in April, marking the first time someone from Loma Linda has held such a high position with the society.

Boling summarized, “It was important for our legislators to hear about the obstacles and difficulties that we’re having in improving patient care as well as the advances we’re making and the exciting new things that are coming to improve the lives of our patients with neurological diseases.

 “In the future we can tackle more complicated problems using these advanced mapping and imaging techniques.”

 

 

 

 

]]>
Thu, 16 Mar 2017 16:20:51 -0700
4264:29983 <![CDATA[Loma Linda ranks in top 25 U.S. workplaces in health care]]> Briana Pastorino Loma Linda University Health has been nationally ranked in the list of best places to work in the health care industry according to Indeed.com, an employment related search engine for job listings. 

Based on reviews by employees, Loma Linda University Health ranked 25th among all hospitals and health systems in the United States.

“Our employees are what make Loma Linda University Health the successful organization it is today,” said Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president, Loma Linda University Health. “It is because of them that we are committed to creating a work environment that is truly special, and being recognized by Indeed is a testament to that commitment.” 

Loma Linda University Health employs nearly 16,000 people across its six hospitals and eight schools, and it receives more than 85,000 job applications annually.

“Loma Linda University Health has become known as a leader in providing quality, whole person care,” said Mark Hubbard, senior vice president for human resource management and risk management at Loma Linda University Health. “We are also focused on providing a work atmosphere that positively affects the whole person.” 

In addition to attractive medical and dental benefits, retirement plan, paid leave and sick leave, Loma Linda University Health also provides staff with a free gym membership and a variety of services through the Living Whole Wellness Program. This program fosters an environment of health and well-being by providing free services and resources to aid employees and their families in the journey of health and wellness. This includes health screening and programs for weight loss, smoking cessation nutrition support, exercise and personal health coaching. Free counseling services are also available through the employee assistance program.

New benefit programs that were introduced in 2016 include identity theft protection and credit monitoring, access to online financial wellness planning and an increase in the matching contribution to eligible employees’ retirement accounts. 

According to the reviews on Indeed.com, employee comments about Loma Linda University Health included the following.

“Loma Linda University Health is very productive and inspiring. The culture here is very welcoming as well.” –a phlebotomist

“All staff, patients and visitors experience a positive and healing environment that corresponds to the values represented by Loma Linda University Health.” –a patient care assistant therapist

]]>
Thu, 16 Mar 2017 16:18:32 -0700
4264:29970 <![CDATA[11 lives saved through organ transplant in record 5 days]]> Heather Reifsnyder and Melissa Robinson Ranging from 13 to 70 years old, eleven individuals are free of the anxious wait for a new organ to save their lives.  Thanks to the selfless act of families and individuals choosing to donate organs, a record-breaking streak of transplants for Loma Linda University Transplantation Institute was made possible.  

When organs become available, it’s go time. Surgeons drop what they are doing and rush to the hospital to perform these life-saving transplants. For each organ that is recovered, surgical teams must be assembled, operating rooms cleared, and no one from the transplant teams rests until the completion of these lengthy procedures.

Phones began to ring on February 27with organ offers and peaked on March 1, with five patients and six organs transplanted within 24 hours. The surgical streak concluded March 3 with two organs transplanted. A 50-year-old received a donated liver and kidney, and ten individuals, ranging in ages from 13 to 70, received the gift of life through donated kidneys.

Ultimately, 11 patients received transplants and a new lease on life within five days.

These transplant surgeries set two new records for LLU Transplantation Institute: most solid organs transplanted within five days and most organs transplanted within a 24-hour period.

"While the availability of organs is unpredictable, we are prepared to meet this high demand,” says Michael de Vera, MD, director of the Transplantation Institute. “We're so thankful to the physicians and staff at the Transplantation Institute as well as the Medical Center, including the staff of the operating rooms, units 8100, 4700 and 4100, and other services.

“Transplant is a teamwork specialty, and these patients can't get served without everyone's help and commitment.”

The surgeons performing the transplants were de Vera, Arputharaj Kore, MD, Philip Wai, MD, and Pedro Baron, MD.

The LLU Transplantation Institute performs pancreas, liver, kidney, liver/kidney, and heart transplants. 

Learn more about the Transplantation Institute. 

]]>
Thu, 16 Mar 2017 16:07:51 -0700
4264:29920 <![CDATA[Your blood could save a life]]> Nancy Yuen Whether the transfusion is used for a heart surgery patient who requires as many as six units of blood or a trauma victim who may need up to 50 units of red blood cells, taking the time to donate blood could save a life.

Every day local hospitals, including Loma Linda University Medical Center, depend on immediate, significant supplies of blood to treat their patients.

According to Don Escalante, public relations specialist, LifeStream, this need is met because of the many donors who consistently give the gift of blood. Donors can give blood as often as every eight weeks.

While all blood types and donation types are needed, “We always keep our eye specifically on the blood type O-negative and platelet supply,” said Escalante. “Type O-negative blood in particular is needed at all times because type-O red blood cells can be given to any patient.”

Do you know your blood type?

Donors receive a card four to six weeks after their first donation on which their blood type is listed. “From that point forward, the card serves as ID each time they give blood with LifeStream,” says Escalante, “and it also is valuable to have on their person in the event they need an emergency transfusion.”

The next scheduled blood drives at Loma Linda University Health are:

Loma Linda University Health (Magan Hall): Tuesday, March 14, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta (hospital lobby): Wednesday, March 15, 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Donors also receive a free cholesterol screening and are awarded Gift of Life Donor Loyalty points that may be redeemed on Lifestream’s online donor store. In addition, those aged 18 to 44 years may register for the Be The Match bone marrow screening at all donor locations.

]]>
Thu, 09 Mar 2017 14:59:15 -0800
4264:29910 <![CDATA[Bear with me ... please?]]> Terry Swenson “Bear with one another …” –Colossians 3:13

There were several thoughts that came to my mind as I read this text stemming from the word “bear.” Immediately, visions of less than ideal interactions with obnoxious characters came to mind. In those scenarios, “bear” conjured up synonyms like “endure, survive, put up with.” Endure another crabby patient or snarky staff member. Survive another boring class or committee meeting. Put up with an interminable workload.

The old adage “Don’t judge a book…” could be applied here. I reviewed the verse in context and came to the realization that there is depth and meaning that goes beyond tolerating, outliving and going along with less than ideal experiences. It isn’t talking about personal martyrdom. It is talking about a core desire of Jesus for each of us.

In Matthew 11:29, Jesus says to us all, “Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” In our urbanized, information-age culture, not many of us know what a yoke is.

I learned what one was as a young boy of 5 years old visiting my Grandpa Wade’s farm in Alabama for the first time. It was a place of wonder to a little kid born and raised in Los Angeles! My Grandpa didn’t drive anything that was mechanized. He still used a pair of horses to plow his fields. They worked together like synchronized swimmers. 

 Unfortunately, shortly before my arrival, one of the horsed died. That left only Old Ben to work with a new and younger horse. I climbed up on the fence to watch my Grandpa begin to plow with the horses. Old Ben had worked with Grandpa and plowed those fields for so long that he probably could have done it without Grandpa. He and Grandpa were in perfect synch.

The younger horse was another thing entirely. When Grandpa wanted the horses to turn right, the rookie horse went left, and so it went for most of the day. As the day wore on, I began to notice what Old Ben was doing. A harness — a yoke — joined the two horses together. When the young horse went the wrong way, Old Ben would dig in his hooves and strain to pull him the right way. On and on it went until, finally, the young horse got it. They became a team working in harmony and unison.

Loma Linda University Health will not stay on mission each day if we are unwilling to bear with one another’s weaknesses, ineptitude, differences or failures. Those of us who have mastery or expertise, like Old Ben, are invited to serve as a guide on how to work well. The others of us who are in need of gaining proficiency or competence are invited to follow the lead. All of us need to accept one another as we progress together toward our goals. That’s what Jesus wants to do for and with us. That’s what Jesus longs for us to do with one another.

It isn’t about just tolerating each other. It’s about us bearing each other’s trials and burdens. It’s about us putting our arms around our fellow employees when they face hardship. It’s about being a team — yoked together — to help each other do the task at hand. This gives a new dimension to “Many strengths. One mission.”

When we are a team, when we are connected with each other, when we realize that Jesus is in the yoke with us, too, when we “bear with each other,” we can meet any challenge that lies ahead.

Terry Swenson, DMin
Campus chaplain
Loma Linda University

]]>
Thu, 09 Mar 2017 14:41:47 -0800
4264:29914 <![CDATA[Employees, alumni and students win photo contest]]> Heather Reifsnyder Can a photo capture the concept of mission being acted out? The answer is yes, as shown by winning pictures from the 2016 photography contest held by the Global Health Institute at Loma Linda University Health.

First place went to Scott Nelson, MD, assistant professor of orthopaedic surgery, and medical student Rachel VanderWel captured second. Honorable mentions were earned by medical student Conor Dean Spady, alumnus Tim Gobble, MD, and alumna Eva Ryckman, MD. 

To be eligible, entrants had to participate in a mission trip sponsored by LLU’s Students for International Mission Service, be serving as deferred mission appointees or global service awardees, or take part in another type of mission project sponsored by Loma Linda University Health.

First place: “Operating in the Dark” by Scott Nelson
This photo was taken at Hôpital Adventiste d’Haiti in Haiti in June 2016. In spite of a power outage, a complex orthopaedic operation continues with headlamps. 

Second place: “On to Life” by Rachel VanderWel
Taken at Kanye Adventist Hospital in Botswana in July 2016, this photo shows the sorrow of a petite woman writhing on the operating table before a successful c-section of a male infant. 

Honorable mention: “Laughter Instead of Pain” by Conor Dean Spady
Another photo taken at Hôpital Adventiste d’Haiti in June 2016 features an orphan named Jesemene who is brave in the face of a needle puncture preceding surgical correction of her clubfeet. 

Honorable mention: Untitled by Tim Gobble
In November 2016 near Malamulo Adventist Hospital in Malawi, a truck full of Pathfinders singing African hymns passed by Gobble and other staff members taking a walk. This photo captures the Pathfinders’ infectious spirit of joy. 

Honorable mention: Untitled by Eva Ryckman
In January 2016, LLU alumnus Seth Gillham, MD, offers a presentation, despite suboptimal conditions, on the importance of cancer screening to residents in Trinidad, where low screening rates are reflected in high cancer incidence.

]]>
Thu, 09 Mar 2017 14:51:55 -0800
4264:29922 <![CDATA[Homecoming draws 2,000]]> Heather Reifsnyder Described as a “oneness experience” by an attendee, the first-annual united homecoming event for Loma Linda University Health hit the intended mark of bringing together alumni from all eight schools, LLU-La Sierra graduates, and employees past and present of the university and hospitals.

Two thousand individuals attended the special Sabbath services March 4, with other events throughout the March 2-6 weekend drawing large crowds as well. The activities included a kickoff party, talent show, 5K, continuing education courses, vespers commemorating Loma Linda’s history and more.

For full coverage of the weekend, visit news.llu.edu for individual stories about the events.

“It was truly a great weekend,” an attendee said. “I can't wait to see how this event will grow each year and benefit the culture of [Loma Linda University Health]."

]]>
Thu, 09 Mar 2017 15:02:48 -0800
4264:29912 <![CDATA[Organization moves to single financial system ]]> Genesis Gonzalez Loma Linda University Health will soon begin transitioning to a unified financial management system that will be implemented in January 2018, a move that will improve workflow and eliminate the need for 10 different accounting systems across the organization. Training will be offered later this year.

The Loma Linda integrated financial transition team is currently creating processes and policies to successfully aid the transition. 

The new system will be web- and app-enabled. Also, access to reports and data will be quick and simple, with easier processing through electronic workflows. Additionally, purchasing and supply management will be more efficient and vendor payments faster.

“This has been a dream for many of us in finance for several years,” said Lew Mowery, assistant vice president for finance.

Upcoming communications will include a timeline for available training sessions.

For questions, please contact Lew Mowery at lmowery@llu.edu and Rani Nagalingam (project manager) at rnagalingam@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 09 Mar 2017 14:44:23 -0800
4264:29907 <![CDATA[Help create your best workplace]]> Loma Linda University Health is giving voice to employees by participating in two national surveys that recognize great workplaces. The surveys are run by leading industry publications The Chronicle of Higher Education and Modern Healthcare.

Random employees of Loma Linda University will be asked to participate in the “Great Colleges to Work For” survey.

Likewise, random employees of LLU Medical Center, Children’s Hospital and Behavioral Medicine Center will be given the opportunity to take part in the “Best Places to Work in Healthcare” survey.

Both surveys will provide the organization with invaluable feedback and topline reports that summarize the organizational competencies and relationships that most directly impact and influence the culture at Loma Linda University Health.

“Regardless of whether or not we are recognized, the data we receive will be helpful as we continue the process of creating the best workplace possible,” said Lizette Norton, vice president for Human Resource Management.

Randomly selected employees will receive an invitation with details about the program and how to access the survey. The survey is voluntary and completely confidential; Loma Linda will not be able to trace results back to individuals. Each invitation contains a unique access code that can only be used once.

“This is a chance to make your voice heard, and a high response rate helps ensure an accurate representation of our community,” Norton said.

Timeframe

The LLU survey period lasts from March 13 through April 7. Randomly chosen employees will receive the request from surveys@modernthink.net. It will be labeled the “Modern Think Higher Education Insight Survey.”

The health care entities survey period is March 31 through April 14. Employees selected at random will receive their invitation from Surveys@BestCompaniesGroup.com.

“We encourage everyone’s participation and hope you will take this opportunity to share your honest feedback,” Norton said. “Thank you in advance for your participation as we continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ.”

For more information, contact David Conkerite at dconkerite@llu.edu or 909-651-4001.

]]>
Thu, 09 Mar 2017 14:35:31 -0800
4264:29808 <![CDATA[Each one ... teach one]]> Kathy McMillan “Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another …” –Colossians 3:16

Think back to the best teachers you have had. What qualities did they possess that made them so effective? Maybe they were compassionate and deeply interested in your well-being. They likely set a high standard and believed that you could attain the goals that were set. Maybe they were creative, enthusiastic and fun, or possibly they were quiet and thoughtful. Whatever personality traits they had, they made a difference.

One absolute essential is that teachers must have knowledge; they must have something to teach. Teachers need to have expertise and familiarity with the material. A great teacher can share information that is already known, providing nuances and insights that the students might not have considered before. Even a required training can become fun and interesting with a talented instructor. 

In Paul’s letter to the Colossians, he named a foundational element that all teachers should exhibit. “Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another …” Elsewhere in the New Testament, we learn from Jesus’ own words that the gospel boils down to this: love God and love others as yourself. So Paul is encouraging us to teach with a spirit of love.

No matter what our role is at Loma Linda University Health, we all teach. There are times we need to instruct each other, to share thoughts and ideas that may be new to a colleague. We will also need to hear others’ ideas and be open to their point of view. But the main focus of this scriptural passage is not what it taught, but the spirit in which it is shared. We will have many opportunities to teach others.

Let’s do it in a spirit of love.

Kathy McMillan, MA
Director, employee spiritual care
Loma Linda University Medical Center

]]>
Thu, 02 Mar 2017 12:42:40 -0800
4264:29810 <![CDATA[ 'Life on the Line' to air on WORLD Channel]]> Heather Reifsnyder The compelling documentary TV series Life on the Line follows the medical journey of individuals fighting for their lives.

Featuring stories from surviving Ebola to healing after a terrorist attack, Life on the Line’s third season will begin airing in primetime across the country on WORLD Channel starting March 6. 

The series is narrated by television presenter Lisa Ling, who currently hosts This is Life with Lisa Ling on CNN.

Episode One of the new season shares the story of Julie, who was shot during a terrorist attack in San Bernardino, California, on Dec. 2, 2015. See how hope lives on as Julie shares her story with others. Witness it in the heroic efforts of first responders helping those injured. And feel it in a bond the community formed like never before.

Of this episode, former San Bernardino mayor Pat Morris said, “What a remarkably sensitive, hope- and love-filled message this film conveys. To view it without tears is impossible.” 

Life on the Line begins airing on WORLD Channel March 6 at 3 p.m. Pacific time/6 p.m. Eastern and 6 p.m. Pacific/9 p.m. Eastern. 

WORLD Channel features the best of public television’s programming alongside original content from emerging creators, reaching almost two-thirds of American households with a TV. Life on the Line features stories Loma Linda University Health.

For more information, visit lifeontheline.tv. And learn how to view WORLD Channel.

]]>
Thu, 02 Mar 2017 13:04:54 -0800
4264:29814 <![CDATA[Construction at entrance of Medical Center]]> Heather Reifsnyder Over the next two months, crews will reconfigure the drop-off point at the front entrance of Loma Linda University Medical Center. This will allow for an additional crane to be brought to the construction site of the future new hospital complex. 

Valet service will remain available, as well as passenger drop-off. Please note that for valet, drivers will be asked to remain in their vehicles until an attendant is ready to park their car.

The front entrance is for patients and guests only.

The reconfiguration work will take place in phases, and ongoing communication will announce impacts as they arise. When possible, construction will take place during nighttime to avoid daytime interruptions. 

“We will work to minimize inconvenience, and we greatly appreciate your patience and understanding,” says Eric Schilt, assistant vice president for construction, LLU Medical Center.

To facilitate the construction, the ADA (handicapped) parking lot next to valet services will now be valet only. To offset this change, additional ADA spaces have been added to the patient parking structure (P3) on Campus Street.

 

]]>
Thu, 02 Mar 2017 13:08:56 -0800
4264:29806 <![CDATA[Notes from the President -- Why come home?]]> Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   March 2017
We gather together -- One Homecoming

“Richard

First, I want to thank the many who responded to my last Notes. I value the many who agreed, and the few who disagreed with the perspective I put forth. It is clearly a topic we need to keep discussing, which was my primary objective.

As we now approach our homecoming weekend, I want to consider other levels of inclusion at Loma Linda University Health. Our Diversity Council spends time on these various issues, seeking to determine how best to make our campus both accepting and safe for all who come here. Clearly the traditional definition of diversity to be primarily a race-based distinction is past. Today we seek to include differences in culture, religions, physical and mental abilities, economic status, etc. The old adage that the “ground at the foot of the cross is all level” seems pertinent for this discussion.

Several weeks ago we had the inaugural session of our newest center on campus, the William Johnsson Center for Understanding World Religions. In time, we intend to discuss many different religions and ideologies. In light of the current conflict in this country, we started the center with a very enlightening discussion of Islam. With guest speakers from elsewhere and comments from some of our own faculty and students, the event gave us all a better understanding of the similarities and differences among us. Surely this is the best and only way to start civil discourse toward understanding and acceptance. We are indeed grateful for those who participated in this meeting and also in future discussions we will have.

Let me make it very clear that Loma Linda has been, is, and will remain a haven for those from any country or culture or religious background seeking to honestly become part of our campus culture and  values. While we must live within the legitimate laws of this country and state, we ultimately follow God’s law of viewing all individuals as His children, of equal value in His sight. For more than 100 years we have welcomed people from all over this diverse world to study on our campus, giving both them and us the privilege of understanding and accepting our differences. That will not change.

It is within this context that I welcome all back to campus for our first “One Homecoming” weekend, March 2 – 6. This will be a coming together of the alumni from all our schools as well as former employees. It is certain to be a memorable event, partly for the quality programming that is planned, but more so because of the relationships that will be renewed and the confirmation of values that will be shared. This is not just for alumni, but for all who have worked in the University and Medical Center and any others who feel an affinity for our culture and purpose. The programs will be superb, Loma Linda University Health at its best. Let me outline the key events briefly for you.

“homecoming

• Thursday, 5 p.m., Drayson Center field — Welcome back bash with The Wedgwood Trio and others

• Friday, 7 p.m., Loma Linda University Church — Living our Legacy – the Story of Loma Linda and San Bernardino

• Saturday, 9 a.m., Drayson Center — Parade of Flags and Global Mission Stories, followed by Randy Roberts – “A Community of Memory”

• Saturday, 12 noon, Drayson Center field — Haystacks for all

• Saturday, 4 p.m., Loma Linda University Church — Mission Vespers – Involvement around the World

• Saturday, 7 p.m., Drayson Center — Loma Linda’s Got Talent – incredible alumni music and enjoyment

What is the value of a homecoming, a coming together of past colleagues and friends? I would suggest it is incalculable. In a world and society struggling for identity and distinctiveness, those of us who share common values and a moral imperative benefit from reminders and reinforcement. Coming “home” provides touch points and relationships that connect with our memories and past. Because we are literally scattered around the world, much of the weekend will also be streamed live at http://home.llu.edu/homecoming for those unable to travel here.

For many of you, the Loma Linda landscape will have changed considerably. For those of us who work here, the change seems gradual, yet persistent. The biggest current change is the huge hole in front of the Medical Center where our new hospitals will be. But there are many other changes, including the Stewart Street overpass that has reconnected the campus via the Centennial Pathway — its pavers ready to be re-engraved for better visibility. Please also take time to visit our sculptures on campus and appreciate how they speak to our values. “Who Touched Me?” north of the Centennial Complex, and “This is the Very Place,” on the hill, east of Nichol Hall, are our newest works and deserve some moments of contemplation.

For those who can attend, thank you in advance for joining us. For those who can’t, know that Loma Linda University Health is the same special place it has always been. May our God continue to bless Loma Linda!

Cordially yours,

“Richard

 

 

 

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health 

Vision 2020: The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow

]]>
Thu, 02 Mar 2017 12:39:21 -0800
4264:29812 <![CDATA[Today it begins: 'One Homecoming']]> Heather Reifsnyder The floodgates open today as Loma Linda University Health’s first “One Homecoming” starts, running from March 2-6. 

“Please welcome our guests to campus and join in the events of this historic weekend for Loma Linda University Health," says Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president. “This is the first time we are reuniting all our alumni as well as past and present faculty and employees. There will be something for everyone in this momentous gathering.” 

An official kickoff party takes place tonight, Thursday, March 2, with a celebration at the Drayson Center field from 5 to 9 p.m., including a Wedgwood Trio concert, carnival games and eats aplenty. 

It’s not too late to register for the many activities offered. See schedule. For help staying on track with the activities, download the homecoming app for Apple or Android. Directions are attached in the documents below this story.

The homecoming events range from continuing education to spiritual programs to an alumni talent show and more — including a Sabbath haystack meal to remember, which can be burned off in Sunday’s 5k Fun Run/Walk.

Lots of people, lots of cars. Where do I park?

Activities are already underway with continuing education courses March 2, 3, 5 and 6 and the Healthy People in Healthy Communities Conference March 2-3.

Friday night and Saturday activities will provide great opportunities for reconnection with friends and reinvigoration of organizational and personal mission.

Friday night and Sabbath

A “Living our Legacy” vespers service will take place Friday night, March 3, at 7 p.m. at Loma Linda University Church. 

Pastor Randy Roberts, DMin, will begin the evening as he portrays co-founder John Burden and the early days of Loma Linda University Health, bringing history to life.

Also speaking will be the granddaughter of Lyra George, one of the first medical professionals to go into San Bernardino and minister to the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. Then, representatives from San Manuel will share their memories and the impact Loma Linda University Health has had on their community.

The new San Bernardino campus will be highlighted, including a powerful story from one of the current students at San Manuel Gateway College.

Saturday morning, March 4, at 9 a.m. at Drayson Center, the Sabbath services willbegin with a parade of flags, showing a beautiful picture of where alumni have served, where students are from, and where future deferred mission appointees/global service awardees will serve.

The honor classes will be recognized, three choirs will perform (one a sign language choir) and the Cheek Brothers will sing a cappella.

Pastor Roberts will speak.

Saturday night – Loma Linda’s Got Talent

From brass to bluegrass, violins to vocals, and clarinets to comedy — be at Drayson Center Saturday night, March 4, at 7 p.m. as alumni from around the country perform. Witness during the free program that they are talented at more than health care!

Follow along on social media

Follow One Homecoming on social media with #LLUHhomecoming.

Facebook.com/LLUHealth

Instagram.com/LLUHealth

Twitter.comLLUHealth

]]>
Thu, 02 Mar 2017 13:07:25 -0800
4264:29708 <![CDATA[Be at peace ...]]> Dilys Brooks “… be at peace with one another.” -Mark 9:50

Our family members are the individuals with whom we spend a great percentage of time during the developmental stages of life. We also spend another significant proportion of time gaining an education. Both our families and education contribute to the way we relate to others and understand our world. When we introduce our friends to our family members, there are often moments of surprise and recognition when our friends detect similarities or differences between us and our families. It isn’t unheard of for someone to say, “You are just like your … !” or “I see where you get that trait from.” Our immediate and extended families help shape who we are because of proximity.

During his ministry, Jesus taught and modeled for his followers the type of character they should possess. These characteristics could only be imparted through relationship and nearness. Jesus chose 12 to become a part of His inner circle. He taught them, traveled with them and cared for their needs. When Peter denied knowing Jesus, the people around him said they didn’t believe his denials because there was something about the way he acted that betrayed his previous association with Jesus (Luke 22:54-62). Just as our friends and teachers can see the resemblance between us and our parents, so it is with those who claim to be Christ-followers. These identifiable traits help confirm our relationship or connection to Him. 

One of these identifiable qualities is peacemaking. Jesus taught, “Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called the children of God.” (Matthew 5:9) He also states, “… be at peace with one another.” (Mark 9:50) It is safe to say, as we conclude this second month of 2017, that peace is not readily available and living peaceably is declining. There is unrest, uncertainty and skepticism that may impact each of us as we coexist with people throughout the day. The unease is brought home by our family members from work or school. Not to mention what we experience from social media and learn through the news.

How can we then find peace in the midst of all this? Spend time with Jesus. How can we remain peaceful in the center of turmoil? Spend time with Jesus. How can we become peacemakers? Say it with me: “Spend time with Jesus!” Our proximity to Him will influence our way of being, and truly reflect whom we belong to.

Dilys Brooks, MDiv
Associate campus chaplain
Loma Linda University

]]>
Thu, 23 Feb 2017 15:31:10 -0800
4264:29712 <![CDATA['The last thing I remember was telling my Dad I couldn't breathe']]> Advancement films ]]> Mysteriously, Leonardo Juarez went from active teenager to complete paralysis in a short time. The video shares his story of healing at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital. It was shown to positive reception during the Children’s Hospital Foundation Gala on Feb. 16, which raised more than $1.1 million.

]]>
Thu, 23 Feb 2017 15:37:36 -0800
4264:29720 <![CDATA[Where do I park during homecoming?]]> Heather Reifsnyder A large influx of alumni and guests will arrive on campus during One Homecoming, March 2-6, at Loma Linda University Health. Both employees and students will have to shift their normal parking arrangements.

“We ask everyone to please be patient and arrive earlier than usual,” said Cori Stiles, manager of rideshare, parking and traffic services.

Due to continuing education courses and other homecoming events at the Centennial Complex, parking lot X will be reserved for alumni and other guests taking part in those activities beginning Thursday morning, March 2, through Monday the 6th. 

Students who normally park in lot X will soon be notified by their respective LLU school where to park instead.

Additionally, level 4 of the new employee parking structure (P2) will be reserved for special event parking Thursday and Friday, March 2 and 3.

During March 2-6 only, employees have the additional option of parking on levels 5 and 6 of the patient garage (P3).

“Our parking enforcement team is fully aware and sympathetic of the impact this will have on students and employees,” said Stiles. “However, we would like to remind everyone to refrain from parking unauthorized in fire lanes or ADA (handicapped) spaces.”

For more information, call 909-651-3025 (on campus ext. 53025) or email parking@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 23 Feb 2017 15:51:10 -0800
4264:29717 <![CDATA['Is Genesis History?']]> Heather Reifsnyder While on a dinosaur dig in Wyoming in June 2015, Leonard Brand, PhD, Loma Linda University professor of biology and paleontology, was approached by a stranger. 

The stranger explained his mission of creating a documentary film exploring science that supports the biblical account of creation and the flood found in the book of Genesis. The filmmaker’s name was Thomas Purifoy.

The resulting film — Is Genesis History?  — is showing nationwide in theaters, Thursday, Feb. 23.

The topic of scientific evidence backing up the Genesis account is dear to Brand, who teaches and does research in the department of earth and biological sciences at Loma Linda University.

Brand agreed to serve as an advisor for the film, and Arthur Chadwick, PhD, a professor of biology at Southwestern Adventist University, is one of the experts interviewed in the movie. Chadwick leads the dinosaur dig where he and Brand were approached by the filmmaker.

Brand emphasized that he does not agree with everything that is said in the film, but he said it is one of the best of its type he has seen, due to its careful and thorough exploration of Earth’s origins through interviews with experts in many fields — geology, paleontology, marine biology, microbiology, astronomy, archaeology and more. 

Loma Linda University showed the film in a pre-screening on campus Feb. 18, followed by a discussion and audience Q&A with Brand; Suzanne Phillips, PhD, chair of the department of earth and biological sciences; Janice De-Whyte, PhD, assistant professor at LLU School of Religion; and Ronny Nalín, PhD, a research scholar at the Geoscience Research Institute, a Seventh-day Adventist organization that examines scientific evidence concerning origins, with its main branch adjacent to the LLU campus.

“This is not a blind faith; the Bible tells us that God has not left Himself without a testimony,” Phillips said of belief in the biblical account of origins. She expressed her appreciation of the film for showing that solid data exists in support of the history recorded in Genesis. 

Adding to that data is part of the purpose of the Geoscience Research Institute, as well as Professor Brand and others working with and for LLU’s department of earth and biological sciences.

Scientific rigor, research and philosophy

The department of earth and biological sciences at Loma Linda University fills a unique role in the Seventh-day Adventist educational system. It is the only department in the system that offers a PhD in geology.

The faculty emphasize scientific rigor along with a focus on philosophy of science and the dif­fering scientific worldviews that influence how scientists interpret evidence.

“Our scholars, both faculty and students, can — and must — think about questions of origins at a deeper level than is common,” Brand said. “Other­wise we would not be able to be a positive in­fluence for a population that needs the Word of God.”

This matters even more when considering that many graduates from the department go on to teach future students.

“Part of our mission is to prepare students to thoroughly understand and even teach those philosophical areas where science and religion meet and sometimes clash,” Brand said. “There is no other place where you can get a graduate degree in geology from teachers who believe that the world bears witness to the biblical accounts of global events.”

Students, alumni and faculty also contrib­ute to the growing body of scientific evidence regarding biological and geological history through publishing research backed up by both evidence and the biblical perspective.

 

]]>
Thu, 23 Feb 2017 15:48:39 -0800
4264:29714 <![CDATA[Homecoming highlight: 5k Fun ]]> There’s nothing like the energy and excitement of a 5k. And there will be even more camaraderie as alumni from Loma Linda University’s eight schools and LLU-La Sierra graduates join current and former staff of the University and Medical Center for the Homecoming 5k Fun Run/Walk on Sunday, March 5.

Homecoming will take place March 2-6, including school reunions, continuing education courses, the Healthy People in Healthy Communities conference, spiritual programming on Friday night and Sabbath, and the “Loma Linda’s Got Talent” show at 7 p.m. Saturday night. From brass to bluegrass, violins to vocals, and clarinets to comedy, the free show will feature alumni performances.

The 5k Fun Run, from 7 to 11 a.m. Sunday, will begin and end at LLU Drayson Center, 25040 Stewart St.

Learn more ands sign up for the 5k. Register early to receive a commemorative T-shirt, while supplies last.

Proceeds from the 5k will benefit special student funds established in memory of Samuel Soret, a professor in the School of Public Health, and Matthew Lynn Schrader, an alumnus of the School of Allied Health Professions.

Learn more about Soret and Schrader:

Matthew Schrader

On Jan. 21, 2014, the School of Allied Health Professions lost alumnus Matthew Schrader, a loving son, husband and father, due to a tragic motorcycle accident while on his way to a patient’s home.

Matthew’s friends remember his passion for helping people.

Schrader didn’t see his work as a physical therapy assistant as a job — he enjoyed the patients he worked with and took great joy in getting to know them personally. 

In his memory, his family has started a scholarship, the Matthew Lynn Schrader Memorial Fund, for physical therapy assistant students at Loma Linda University.

This fund keeps his memory alive, and his two girls will continue to see how their daddy helped people.

Dr. Samuel Soret

On Aug. 23, 2016, the School of Public Health lost Samuel Soret, PhD, MPH. He was a loving father, colleague, professor, researcher and friend.

Soret faithfully served Loma Linda University for 21 years, most recently as associate dean for research, School of Public Health, and executive director of the school’s center for community resilience. He was also a former chair of the school’s environmental and occupational health department, a role he held for many years. Additionally, Soret established the health geoinformatics curriculum in the School of Public Health.

To honor Soret’s legacy and the students he was passionate about, a fund in his memory will support students studying environmental and occupational health or health geoinformatics at Loma Linda University.

Supporting their legacy

All proceeds from 2017 Homecoming 5k Fun Run/Walk will be split equally between the funds honoring Soret and Schrader.

The two men would be happy to know they are helping students complete their education and go on to find joy in their careers, according to those who knew them.

]]>
Thu, 23 Feb 2017 15:39:12 -0800
4264:29710 <![CDATA[Staff members honored for dedication to pediatric patients]]> Briana Pastorino Every year the Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital Foundation recognizes key individuals or groups for their dedication and service to children in the community.

This year four awards were presented during the 24th annual Foundation Storybook Gala, which raised more than $1.1 million for a new pediatric hospital tower and Vision 2020: The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow.  

Staff honorees

Two of the evening’s honorees are clinical staff members at LLU Children’s Hospital: Alane Allbee, RN, and Stephen Ashwal, MD. 

Allbee was presented with the Hometown Hero Award, which recognizes the contributions of individuals who show a passion for children and help enrich the quality of life in the community. 

A charge nurse on the hematology/oncology unit at LLU Children’s Hospital, Albee goes beyond the call of duty. She created the Spirit of Christmas project 25 years ago that she and other nurses work on all year to provide personalized gifts for patient families in need in the Inland Empire. 

 

“I went in to nursing to make a difference in the lives of children,” Allbee said. “I want every patient to know that we are a second home for them, and we give our best.” 

Hear more from Allbee in a video profile about her and the Spirit of Christmas project.

Ashwal, a pediatric neurologist, received the Outstanding Clinician Award. This award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated lifelong dedication and distinguished service to children and who, through their professional career and advocacy, have demonstrated the desire and motivation to improve the lives of children in the Inland Empire. 

Now the chief of pediatric neurology, Ashwal joined LLU Children’s Hospital more than 40 years ago and has influenced more than a generation of pediatricians internationally through his research and care of children.

Watch Ashwal’s video profile.

Community honorees

Frank and Mary Ann Xavier were honored with the Discover Lifetime Achievement Award, which recognizes outstanding dedication and lifelong distinguished service to children personally and professionally.

“Few people have identified with our mission and culture like the Xaviers,” said Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president, Loma Linda University Health. “Their participation in many of our events and commitment to our future is exemplary, and I am delighted to recognize them in this way.”

The Shirley N. Pettis Award was given to the Farmer Boys restaurant family. This award recognizes those who, through volunteerism and community service, have demonstrated the desire and motivation to improve the lives of children in the Inland Empire.

Farmer Boys has raised more $655,000 for Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital over the past 16 years, benefiting nearly every unit at the hospital. Founder and CEO Demetris Havadjias, along with President/COO Karen Eadon, accepted the award on behalf of Farmer Boys.

“It makes our job so much more meaningful when we’re doing something that’s making a difference in the lives of people,” said Eadon of their most recent fundraiser for the hospital, “and for us that means so much.”

]]>
Thu, 23 Feb 2017 15:35:35 -0800
4264:29601 <![CDATA[True or False]]> Terry Swenson “Don’t lie to each other, for you have stripped off your old sinful nature and all its wicked deeds.” –Colossians 3:9

Pause for a moment and ask yourself this question: “Do I lie?” 

What did you come up with? Did you answer, “Who me? Never!” Hmm, maybe you just incriminated yourself, because we have all lied at one time or another. You don’t believe that statement? Often we justify them as “white lies” — little mistruths that avoid conflict or keep us in good standing with our bosses or coworkers. Or we can lie by being silent, standing by when our standing up could defend a coworker or confront a wrong. Often, we tell little mistruths to avoid interacting with others.

When someone asks you how are you doing, have you ever answered “Fine!” when you were anything but fine? “So what! Everybody tells a little lie once in a while! What harm is there in it?” 

There is great harm in lying. Relationships rely on truth. Love is empowered by truth. Where there is no truth, there is no trust. Where there is no trust, there can be no healthy, thriving relationship. This is true in families, true in friendships, true in communities and true at Loma Linda University Health. As a matter of fact, it is true in all of humanity. 

The Bible begins with the matter of trust. God created a world based on love. Love requires trust. Adam and Eve loved and trusted God. The adversary inserted the idea in their minds that God lied, couldn’t be trusted and was holding them back from their true potential (Genesis 3). Adam and Eve believed the lie and broke their relationship with God. It is interesting to note the three things that immediately followed: They tried to cover up, hid from God and blamed each other. The result is — well — history.

That was a long time ago and far away from where you and I live and work. But, maybe it isn’t. There are many ways to lie. We can speak out-and-out lies. We can lie by saying nothing when we should have spoken. We can lie by living with false fronts. 

What if we told the truth? Sometimes it would require us to own up to our mistakes. Sometimes it would draw us into some uncomfortable conversations. Some relationships would end. But other wonderful things would transcend these. You could come out from behind your false fronts and the walls you are hiding behind. Honesty can bring healing. Relationships grow strong.

Understanding each other in what we are facing, who we are and what we need helps to weave our many strengths into one mission — to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ. Loma Linda University Health can be a place of oneness, wholeness, healing and love.

And that’s the truth.

Terry Swenson, DMin
Campus chaplain
Loma Linda University

]]>
Thu, 16 Feb 2017 13:59:41 -0800
4264:29597 <![CDATA[Represent your international roots in parade of flags]]> Heather Reifsnyder Almost 100 home countries are represented in the student population at Loma Linda University Health, as well as numerous more among employees.

Imagine this diversity illustrated in a majestic parade of flags to open the Sabbath morning church service, March 4, during the One Homecoming weekend. The service will take place at 9 a.m. at Drayson Center, featuring stirring stories, music and messages from students, alumni and guest speakers. 

International students, as well as employees from any part of Loma Linda University Health, are invited to participate in the parade of flags, with the gratitude of President Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, who envisioned this living display of global cooperation and mutual fealty toward all humankind.

Individuals who have served overseas are also invited to march with a flag.

Dress from each individual’s home country would be welcome but is not mandatory.

If willing to volunteer, please contact Martin Aguirre at ext. 44560 or maguirre@llu.edu no later than 12 noon on Friday, Feb. 24, and indicate the country you represent. He will provide all the necessary information. 

]]>
Thu, 16 Feb 2017 13:56:23 -0800
4264:29603 <![CDATA[Volunteer to help make homecoming a success]]> Heather Reifsnyder It’s a historic occasion: on March 2, Loma Linda University Health will open the campus to alumni and employees from all its schools and hospitals for a united homecoming weekend. Previously, schools held their alumni weekends separately, making this the first time the whole enterprise will come together as one.

The monumental event requires monumental planning and staffing. Loma Linda University Health is requesting volunteers for events each day, March 2-6.

“We offer great gratitude to any staff, faculty or students who can volunteer for a shift. We need more than 100 individuals for each day,” says Janya Mekelburg, director of alumni and donor relations.

Volunteers can select the event(s) that work with their schedule and interest. Tasks will include assisting with registration, event set-up, providing directions and more. Shifts are available at all hours of the day throughout homecoming.

Each volunteer will receive a long-sleeved Loma Linda University Health homecoming shirt. 

Please view the schedule and sign up at www.lluh.org/homecomingvolunteer.

]]>
Thu, 16 Feb 2017 14:01:08 -0800
4264:29599 <![CDATA[Network through LLUHConnect.org ]]> Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Health’s new online community makes it easy to maintain or cultivate relationships among alumni, students, faculty and staff.

The site is found at LLUHConnect.org, and signing up is as easy as linking it with one’s LinkedIn or Facebook account.

 “We wanted to provide an easy, convenient way for alumni to remain connected with each other and their alma mater,” says Janya Mekelburg, director of alumni and donor relations. “LLUHConnects also allows alumni to forge new relationships for expanding their professional network and learning about new career opportunities.”

The site is also designed to benefit current students, connecting them with individuals who are willing to provide mentoring.

The site is open to alumni, students, faculty and staff.

For more information, email Amiee Lay in the office of alumni and donor relations at alay@llu.edu. For technical support, email support@lluhconnect.org.

]]>
Thu, 16 Feb 2017 13:57:48 -0800
4264:29605 <![CDATA[Blue Zone science to be illuminated at Healthy People Conference]]> Susan Onuma and Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University School of Public Health is hosting the Healthy People in Healthy Communities Conference, an annual event now in its 44th year. The conference will be held on March 2 and 3 at the Drayson Center, and will present its first annual Symposium on Blue Zone Science and Health.

A Blue Zone® is identified as a demographic and/or geographic area of the world where people live measurably longer lives. Loma Linda was revealed to be the only Blue Zone in the United States when Dan Buettner published his article debuting this concept in National Geographic in 2005. He has grown the concept into books, a web resource and the Blue Zones Project.

Buettner will offer the keynote address on day one of the conference and participate in several informative sessions. 

What’s more, for the first time, researchers from the five demographically and epidemiologically confirmed Blue Zone regions will congregate under the same roof to share their scientific findings and offer present-day applications for modern communities. They are:

• Michel Poulain, PhD, Sardinia, Italy, Blue Zone

• Christodoulos Stefanadis, MD, Ikaria, Greece, Blue Zone

• Makoto Suzuki MD, PhD, Okinawa, Japan, Blue Zone

• Xinia Fernández Rojas, PhD, Nicoya, Costa Rica, Blue Zone

• Gary Fraser, MD, PhD, Loma Linda, California Blue Zone

Fraser is principal investigator of Loma Linda University’s groundbreaking Adventist Health Study, a long-term epidemiologic investigation into the connections between lifestyle, diet, disease and longevity.

The Symposium on Blue Zone Science and Health underscores Loma Linda University Health’s legacy of promoting health, longevity and wholeness, while creating a platform for exploring the role of Blue Zone areas as a paradigm for public health practice.

Preregistration is recommended, as space is limited.

The conference takes place when alumni from Loma Linda University’s eight professional schools, LLU-La Sierra graduates, and all current and former Medical Center and University staff members will come together for a weekend of celebration, fellowship and continuing education opportunities March 2-6, on the Loma Linda University Health campus during its inaugural “One Homecoming” event. The weekend will include many activities that will bring the groups together for joint events and receptions.

---

Note: Previously advertised presenter Vivek Murthy, U.S. surgeon general, will not be speaking due to his schedule.

Content courtesy of Blue Zones, LLC. Used by permission. Blue Zones® is a registered trademark of Blue Zones, LLC. 

]]>
Thu, 16 Feb 2017 14:03:32 -0800
4264:29609 <![CDATA[Dealing with outside media]]> Briana Pastorino Have you ever seen a news truck parked near campus and wondered why it was here? Or maybe you’ve seen a reporter interviewing someone on campus with a camera and microphone. It is likely you have, because Loma Linda University Health is often in the news for stories related to patient care, cutting edge research, events and in times of crisis. 

However, members of the media are not always easily identified by the presence of a news van or big TV camera. They can often be inconspicuous. Stay on your guard. 

The office of public relations would like to take an opportunity to remind you about protocol when it comes to outside media, such as TV stations, newspapers and film crews.

Follow these guidelines

  1. If contacted by media, please refer them to media relations, ext. 44111. The media relations team will vet every request that comes through.
  2. A media relations representative must be present for all interviews conducted by outside media.
  3. If you notice a reporter on campus without a media relations representative present, call media relations at ext. 44111 or security at ext. 44320.
  4. If a film crew wants to film on campus, they must submit a formal request through media relations.

The main thing to remember is this: a media relations specialist must always be involved when an outside source such as news or another organization wants to speak with or film Loma Linda University Health patients, students, faculty and staff.

Why is this important?

These guidelines ensure the protection of patients, students and employees and ensure the organization is well represented when opting to appear in the spotlight.

Who is the media relations team?

The media relations team is an arm of the office of public relations. The team consists of:

Garrett Caldwell, executive director, public affairs
Briana Pastorino, senior media relations specialist
Susan Onuma, media relations specialist.

To learn more or raise concerns related to outside media, please contact any member of the media relations team.

They are here to support you.

During business hours, call (909) 558-4111 or ext. 44111. After hours, call (909) 558-4000 and ask the operator to page the media specialist on call.

From left to right: Briana Pastorino, Susan Onuma and Garrett Caldwell

]]>
Thu, 16 Feb 2017 14:07:26 -0800
4264:29537 <![CDATA[Your choice: LLUH Alerts for emergencies]]> Heather Reifsnyder Never be caught unaware.

That is the organization’s desire for every employee and student of Loma Linda University Health should disaster or emergency strike. LLUH Alerts is the new strategy for ensuring that everyone on the Loma Linda campuses receives timely notification of such an event in the manner they choose.  

This requires action on the part of every student and employee. Make your choice today on how to receive emergency notifications. 

“Our highest priority is maintaining a safe campus,” says Ehren Ngo, MS, emergency operations manager at Loma Linda University Health office of environmental health and safety. 

“While it is best to have multiple pathways for receiving notifications, we want to ensure individuals receive notifications in the manner most accessible and convenient for them,” he adds. 

The options are:

• ContactBridge app (free)
Text message (most efficient)
Call to cellular phone
• Call to office phone (landline)
• Email (work or personal)
• Two-way pager
• Combination of the above choices

Manage your choices — and update them every six months — by clicking “edit contacts” at myllu.llu.edu/contacts.

The only option that cannot be selected there is the free ContactBridge app. For that, Loma Linda University Health will email a quarterly invitation to employees and students who have not yet signed up. To request an invitation immediately, email lluhalerts@llu.edu. If worried about privacy, note that you can disable the app’s location and camera functions. 

Additionally, in the event of emergency, LLUH Alerts will send desktop notifications that will appear on all campus workstation computers.

When a disaster occurs, it is more than students and employees who will need notification. Thousands of people come to campus every day as visitors, whether to receive medical care, visit a patient, tour the campus or conduct business at on-campus enterprises such as Loma Linda Market or Bank of America. 

For them, LLUH Alerts provides a service called Nixle, which sends text message alerts. Community members can sign up by texting LLUH411 to 888-777.

Will I be inundated with messages?

As part of the new LLUH Alerts strategy, the office of environmental health and safety is using specific parameters for its emergency notifications. First, messages will only be sent in actual emergency and for occasional tests and drills.

Second, each message sent will be actionable, stating what is happening, how the organization is responding, and what the individual should do. The message will also provide resources for more information and specify which campus audience is affected by the notification. 

Finally, when a notification is received, taking a moment to confirm receipt of the notification will allow individuals to stop additional, duplicate messages. 

To request more information or offer feedback, contact the emergency management team at: lluhalerts@llu.edu.

Safety at home 

The office of environmental health and safety also wants to ensure home safety for its employees, students and community members. Visit the “12 Months of Preparedness” website to learn how to have a complete disaster plan by the end of 2017.

]]>
Thu, 09 Feb 2017 10:11:37 -0800
4264:29534 <![CDATA[Parking permits to expire March 1]]> Heather Reifsnyder Employees of the Loma Linda University Health enterprise have until March 1 to renew their annual parking permits. This applies to all Loma Linda entities except LLU; those permits are renewed each fall.

“Permit renewals are simple and just require confirmation of personal details, work details and vehicle details,” says Cori Stiles, manager of rideshare, parking and traffic services.

Renew your permit here.

For additional information or help completing this process, call 909-651-3025 (on campus ext. 53025) or email parking@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 09 Feb 2017 10:10:22 -0800
4264:29527 <![CDATA[Forgiveness of grievances]]> By Kathy McMillan “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” –Colossians 3:13 

I listened to my friend tell her story; years previously her husband had been unjustly criticized by his supervisor and it had hurt him deeply. Although he had moved on and had a successful career, my friend was still harboring anger toward her husband’s previous boss. She talked about how cruel and out of touch he was, unappreciative of her husband’s strengths. 

I asked her how often she had to see this man and interact with him; her reply shocked me: “I’ve never even met him. But if I ever do, I will give him a piece of my mind!”

It had been more than 10 years since her husband had taken employment elsewhere, but my friend held a deep anger that was ruining her quality of life as she nursed her feelings of resentment. Joyce Meyer says, “Harboring unforgiveness is like drinking poison and hoping your enemy will die.”  As I listened to my friend, I was reminded how damaging it is to hold a grudge. 

On a regular basis, we are treated unfairly. Someone takes the parking space we were waiting for; another criticizes our judgment; we put our heart and soul into a project at work and someone else gets the credit for it. These indignities, over time, can lead to a sense of anger toward those who have caused them.

When we don’t deal with the disappointment, pain and hurt, it can cause us to become heartless or retaliatory. We place ourselves in an emotional prison, blaming others for our feelings without realizing that we are the jailer. 

In scripture, Jesus teaches us to forgive. In answer to Peter’s attempt to quantify how much forgiveness is sufficient, Jesus gives an over-the-top reply, letting Peter know that we are never done forgiving. (Matthew 18:21-22)

In an environment as closely knit as Loma Linda University Health, we are likely to encounter people who remind us of hurts that may have occurred recently … or years ago. We may even inadvertently hurt others, innocently or because of our own unresolved pain.

Rather than hanging on to the hurt, let’s make a commitment to forgive one another. Bearing with one another means we dismiss from our minds the slight, before we are asked to forgive, because this is what Jesus has done for each of us on the cross. What a gift that is!

Let’s extend that forgiveness to everyone.

Kathy McMillan, MA
Director
Employee spiritual care
Loma Linda University Medical Center

]]>
Wed, 08 Feb 2017 16:33:01 -0800
4264:29525 <![CDATA[Homecoming highlight: CEs and 'Loma Linda's Got Talent']]> Compiled by Heather Reifsnyder Alumni from Loma Linda University’s eight professional schools, LLU-La Sierra graduates, and all current and former Medical Center and University staff members are invited to come together for a weekend of celebration, fellowship and continuing education opportunities March 2–6 on the Loma Linda University Health campus.

While Loma Linda University’s Schools of Medicine, Nursing, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Public Health, Allied Health Professions, Behavioral Health and Religion will each hold functions for their individual alumni, the “One Homecoming” weekend will also include many activities that will bring the groups together for joint activities and receptions.

News of the Week is highlighting different aspects of homecoming each Thursday. Read an overview and see the complete schedule. Also learn about the weekend’s spiritual programming.

Today’s story focuses on continuing education opportunities and the Saturday night “Loma Linda’s Got Talent” program.

Continuing education courses

Alumni, faculty and staff (current or past) of the Loma Linda University Health enterprise are invited to join together in learning through numerous continuing education credit opportunities, March 1-3 and 5-6. 

There will be three interdisciplinary workshops:

• Pain management and mind/body approaches to chronic pain
• Demystifying PubMed: how to find the citations you need
• Men’s health: seeking and compliance behaviors of men — what can a health provider do?

Additionally, many of LLU’s eight schools are offering continuing education opportunities specific to their disciplines.

To learn about all the continuing education classes, download the “homecoming full activities” document below the story.

Opportunities include the 44th annual Healthy People in Healthy Communities conference, March 2-3. (Note: Surgeon General Vivek Murthy’s presentation has been taken off the schedule).

Talent show

Saturday night, March 4, see for yourself that “Loma Linda’s Got Talent” at 7 p.m. at Drayson Center. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. 

Performances by Loma Linda University students, faculty and alumni will include instrumental music, singing and comedy.

The scheduled acts are:

• Violin: Adrian Dumitrescu, School of Dentistry faculty

• Cello: Steven Debulgado, School of Dentistry student

• Piano/strings: Jonathan Harper, Casey Harms, Laurel Guthrie, William Guthrie, Allen Nedley, School of Medicine alumni and students

• Brass quintet: Dennis Anderson, Kimber Schneider, Byron Moe, Ben Eby, Terry Douglas, School of Medicine alumni and School of Dentistry alumni/faculty

• Vocals: Cheek Brothers

• Saxophone: Jon Olango, School of Medicine alumnus

• Vocals: Lance Hundley, School of Allied Health Professions student

• Guitar; Ron Lamberton, School of Medicine alumnus

• Clarinet: Jessica Blaza, School of Medicine student

• Vocal group: School of Nursing students (tentative)

• Ukulele: Richard Luke Elloway, School of Medicine alumnus

• Comedy: Erik Valenti, School of Medicine alumnus

• Vocals: Andrene Campbell, School of Medicine alumna

• Bluegrass: Kimberly Conley and friends, School of Medicine alumna, School of Public Health students, and others

• Finale, “To Make Man Whole”: Brett Quave, Ron Foo and friends, School of Medicine alumni

Please join us!

]]>
Wed, 08 Feb 2017 16:29:52 -0800
4264:29445 <![CDATA[Maximize your AHRP matching benefit]]> Heather Reifsnyder Eligible employees of Loma Linda University Health can now make more money for retirement. Executive leaders recently increased the employer matching benefit maximum toward what employees personally contribute to Adventist Healthcare Retirement Plan (AHRP). 

Loma Linda University Health employers will now match half of up to 6 percent that employees save toward retirement through AHRP. The previous maximum employer match was half of 4 percent. 

As eligible employees increase their personal contribution up to 6 percent of their income, the employer matches half of the employee’s personal contribution. Eligible employees who contribute less than 6 percent to their AHRP account lose some or all of this additional 3 percent Loma Linda University Health would contribute under the recently increased matching benefit.

The employer-provided matching benefit is additional to the employer basic contribution to AHRP the organization already provides of 3 percent of an employee’s income — whether or not an employee chooses to personally contribute to AHRP.

Currently, AHRP is the most widely offered retirement plan across the Loma Linda University Health enterprise. It is available to eligible employees of the following entities: Loma Linda University Medical Center, Children’s Hospital, Behavioral Medicine Center, Murrieta and Shared Services.

Employees can download the flier below the image to learn more and maximize their AHRP account contributions. They can also contact their benefits representative with additional questions or visit the human resource management website.

]]>
Thu, 02 Feb 2017 13:08:49 -0800
4264:29427 <![CDATA[Be encouraged]]> Dilys Brooks “Therefore encourage one another and build up one another, just as you also are doing.”–1 Thessalonians 5:11

Have you had one of those days recently? Where a series of events gives you pause, and as you reflect on your morning, afternoon or day, it seems as if the world is out to get you?

Perhaps it’s the difficult patient, student or relative who has required more of your time than you allocated. Maybe that is compounded by a conversation with colleagues, supervisors or a significant other that ends in frustration because what you are saying is not what is being heard. Next, you got an alert on your computer or phone about a distressing news event or a bank notice that you’re overdrawn. Finally, when you think it can’t get any worse, you walk out to your mode of transportation and find a flat tire, a parking ticket or a sputtering engine.

Where do we turn when we are having one, seven or 30 of those days? Who can we reach out to for support, comfort and a listening or understanding ear? If we encounter friends, family or coworkers, do we know how to respond if they reach out to us during one of these spells?

Paul, the author of the scripture above, was very familiar with days like this. Notwithstanding, he was a source of encouragement to those with whom he had ministered or shared life. How was he able to intentionally write letters of inspiration and reassurance despite being vilified, threatened, imprisoned and disconnected from his family of origin?

He found his strength and courage through spiritual practices — reflection on scripture, time in prayer and engaging with his community of faith. This helped to bring his challenging experiences into perspective. He was not enduring the trials alone. Paul’s courage was bolstered because others reached out to him to reassure him that his work had not been in vain. He was not forgotten and abandoned. He was loved, known and remembered. As a result he could, in turn, pass that on to others.

It is quite challenging to combat the daily stressors we encounter working here at Loma Linda University Health, commuting, and interacting with our families, neighbors and communities. Yet, each of us should follow in Paul’s footsteps and encourage and build each other up.

This upcoming week, I would like to challenge each of us to write a note, email or send a text of encouragement, gratitude or appreciation to at least 10 individuals within Loma Linda University Health. Our core mission depends on it. Our students, residents and patients need to experience it. We can’t avoid those challenging days, but we can face and endure them when we are encouraged and reassured by each other.

Dilys Brooks, MDiv

Associate campus chaplain

Loma Linda University

]]>
Thu, 02 Feb 2017 11:25:23 -0800
4264:29423 <![CDATA[EarthCare to be theme of film fest]]> Heather Reifsnyder The humanities program at Loma Linda University School of Religion will host its fourth annual film festival this Friday and Saturday, Feb. 3 and 4. 

This year’s film festival theme — EarthCare — is intended to complement Loma Linda University Health’s commitment to excellent patient care by turning attention to the earth, God’s creation, as a patient. 

“Sometimes taking care of the earth seems so overwhelming that I don’t know where to begin,” says host Ron Joliffe, PhD, professor of English at Walla Walla University in Washington state. “These are stories of individuals, as well as small groups, who work to make difference in their own neighborhood or campus.” 

The films will show according to the following schedule at the Damazo Amphitheater in the Centennial Complex, 24760 Stewart St. Free parking behind the building is plenteous.

Friday evening, Feb. 3, 7:30-9:30 p.m.

Saving Eden From the Sixth Extinction: A pre-release screening of documentary on how activists and scientists have pulled white rhinos and other animals back from extinction’s brink

Think Globally — Eat Locally: How one Illinois county revolutionized the production and distribution of locally grown foods

Sabbath (Saturday) morning, Feb. 4, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. 

Racing to Zero, in Pursuit of Zero Waste: San Francisco’s 2020 commitment to change the nature of consumption

Don’t Frack with Denton: How an industrially exploited but very creative town managed to upstage the oil and gas industry deep in the heart of Texas

Sabbath (Saturday) afternoon, Feb. 4, 3:30–6:00 p.m. 

Bag It! How one guy stops using grocery plastic bags, his life turns upside down, and the issue’s implications for everybody

The Beekeeper’s Keeper: An award-winning short about beekeepers in New York City.

Social Tactics: How an installation artist led hundreds of Cal State volunteers to create a life-sized replica of a predator.

“The humanities program at LLU is proud to sponsor this, our fourth film festival,” says Jim Walters, PhD, director of the program and professor, School of Religion. “Although some may see 'humanities' and 'film' as disconnected to a health sciences campus, the opposite is true: precisely because LLU is professionally health oriented, humanities events are vital — to keep health human. 

“And this year the film fest is health-oriented in a big, big way: EarthCare, celebrating God's creation, in that our Lord invites us to not only heal our patients, but also our planet."

]]>
Thu, 02 Feb 2017 11:10:16 -0800
4264:29443 <![CDATA['I view diversity as an action']]> Heather Reifsnyder and Larry Becker “Diversity is created when people reach a point in their social development where they can successfully interact with others who are different from them. … The more we appreciate each other and combine our unique talents and strengths, the more we will come to the realization that God intended for us to work together for His kingdom.” –Pedro Payne, MD, director of community outreach and patient experience, Loma Linda University Medical Center and Surgical Hospital

Payne is a member of Loma Linda University Health’s Diversity Council, which plays a key role in helping understand our similarities and differences. The 22 members of this council are anxious to discover both best practices and areas of concern across campus and have offered to meet with anyone who has ideas or comments to share. 

News of the Week is running a series introducing Diversity Council members. Learn more about Payne’s vision for diversity at Loma Linda University Health.

As a faith-based institution, Loma Linda University Health is committed to the fundamental principle that every person is created of equal value in God’s sight. Learn more about the Diversity Council in the words of President Richard Hart, MD, DrPH.

]]>
Thu, 02 Feb 2017 12:53:05 -0800
4264:29417 <![CDATA[Introducing '12 Months of Preparedness']]> Heather Reifsnyder Wildfires, earthquakes, terrorism and more— such possibilities are a lot to face. Loma Linda University Health recognizes that preparing for emergencies and disasters can be overwhelming.

Disasters can strike at any time, often with little warning. Earthquakes, floods, wildfires and acts of terrorism are potential realities for living, working and playing in Southern California. It is necessary to assess whether you and your family are prepared to survive such events, according to Ehren Ngo, emergency operations manager at Loma Linda University Health office of environmental health and safety. 

“You are an important and integral part of our team, and we place great importance on you and your family’s safety,” Ngo says. “That is why we are introducing the 12 Months of Preparedness.”

Each month at https://home.llu.edu/emergency, learn about a new aspect of home disaster preparedness. See the schedule in the image below.

“By following the steps outlined each month, you will have a complete family disaster plan at the end of 2017,” Ngo says.

The January content, outlining the steps toward creating such a plan, is now available.

]]>
Thu, 02 Feb 2017 10:37:32 -0800
4264:29429 <![CDATA[Employee celebration events scheduled]]> Heather Reifsnyder The leaders of Loma Linda University Health have announced their desire to begin 2017 by saying “thank you” to all employees and hosting a series of employee recognition events at various locations across the campuses. As their statement noted: 

It is the employees who make Loma Linda University Health the place that it is — a place committed to exceptional patient care, serving the community and working together as a team to fulfill the mission to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ. Our work is strengthened by the compassion, dedication and excellence of every employee here.

The receptions will feature snacks and refreshments, and note cards will be provided for employees to write messages of appreciation to each other.

Download the fliers below for the schedule and locations of the events at Loma Linda University; LLU Medical Center, Children’s Hospital, East Campus, Behavioral Medicine Center, Murrieta, Surgical Hospital and Highland Springs Medical Plaza; and LLUH 101 Building.

Dates and times for the appreciation events for Loma Linda University Health Care are forthcoming.

]]>
Thu, 02 Feb 2017 11:35:08 -0800
4264:29425 <![CDATA[Homecoming highlight: Friday and Saturday events]]> Alumni from Loma Linda University’s eight professional schools, LLU-La Sierra graduates, and all current and former Medical Center and University staff members are invited to come together for a weekend of celebration, fellowship and continuing education opportunities March 2–6 on the Loma Linda University Health campus.

While Loma Linda University’s Schools of Medicine, Nursing, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Public Health, Allied Health Professions, Behavioral Health and Religion will each hold functions for their individual alumni, the “One Homecoming” weekend will also include many activities that will bring the groups together for joint activities and receptions.

Read an overview and see the complete schedule.

Today’s story focuses on the Friday and Saturday programs. Stay tuned to News of the Week for more information each Thursday. 

Spiritual programs, Friday and Sabbath

Steeped in Loma Linda University Health’s rich history is the mission “to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ.” The homecoming weekend’s spiritual programming will focus on this mission, offering reminders of why we do what we do.

Friday morning, March 3, will begin with a mission and prayer breakfast from 7–8 a.m. at the Centennial Complex’s Damazo Amphitheater. The breakfast will offer an opportunity for those who have served overseas to come together, hear a short devotional, find their name on the mission globe and celebrate God’s leading.

Friday evening vespers, themed “Living Our Legacy,” will feature Pastor Randy Roberts, DMin, appearing as John Burden, co-founder of Loma Linda University Health. The program will also include stories shared by the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians and highpoints in the development of Loma Linda University Health – San Bernardino. The vespers will take place at Loma Linda University Church from 7–8:30 p.m.

Saturday (Sabbath), March 4, begins with a prayer walk from 7–8 a.m., beginning at the Mission Globe. During a thoughtful stroll around the inner campus, there will be opportunity to reflect on Loma Linda University Health’s history and to pray for its future, students, and the lives served by the organization every day.

The Sabbath worship service will take place in the Drayson Center from 9–11:45 a.m., featuring stirring stories, music and messages from students, alumni and guest speakers.

Following afternoon reunions, everyone will be invited to gather once more at Loma Linda University Church for the annual Mission Vespers, 4–6 p.m.

Loma Linda’s Got Talent, Saturday night

On Saturday night, alumni will showcase their many talents during an evening talent show beginning at 7 p.m. at Drayson Center that is being billed as “an evening of unparalleled entertainment."

Call for volunteers

The clock is counting down. There are only 27 days until the Loma Linda campus will be filled with guests for homecoming.

More than 100 volunteers are needed on each of the five days, March 2-6. Volunteers will assist with registration, help set up events, provide directions and more. Volunteer opportunities are available all hours of the day. 

Please visit www.lluh.org/homecomingvolunteer to sign up.

]]>
Thu, 02 Feb 2017 11:17:47 -0800
4264:29421 <![CDATA[Inspire a happily ever, two weeks from today: Children's Hospital Gala ]]> Briana Pastorino Come support the 24th annual Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital Foundation Gala on Thursday, Feb. 16. The themed “Storybook Gala” is presented by Hard Rock Hotel Palm Springs, McCarthy, and MPS Mechanical Contractors.

Funds raised during the evening's festivities will support Vision 2020 toward the construction of the new LLU Children’s Hospital tower opening in 2020. 

The gala will feature live entertainment, decadent food, inspiring stories, and a live and silent auction.  

 “This year’s ‘Storybook Gala’ is all about rewriting the landscape of health care,” said Joanna DeLeon, director, Children’s Hospital Foundation. “Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital is here for one reason — the children. And we want to create a happily ever after for every child we treat.”

The event will take place from 5–9 p.m. at the Riverside Convention Center, 3637 5th Street. 

For the fourth time, K-Frog radio’s Heather Froglear will emcee the evening. She will get a helping hand from Children’s Hospital patient Caden Henderson, 11, during the live auction portion of the evening.

Live auction items included in this year’s event are a Country Music Awards VIP experience, an Ireland vacation package and a Bandon Dunes golf experience with a private jet.

Entertainment will be provided by America’s Got Talent season seven finalist William Close and the Earth Harp Collective. The Earth Harp rests on the stage while the strings travel over the audience and attach to the roof of the venue, turning every space into an instrument. 

There will also be an original musical performance from Tad Worku, a pediatric nurse at Children’s Hospital. 

Sponsorship opportunities and individual tickets are still available. For more information visit lomalindagala.org or call the Foundation at 909-558-5370.

]]>
Thu, 02 Feb 2017 11:05:47 -0800
4264:29441 <![CDATA[Notes from the President -- LGBT]]> Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   February 2017
Talking about LGBT identities

“Richard

Fasten your seat belt. This issue is a tough one — but one we need to get out on the table and discuss.

Even that list of letters —LGBT — is new, unknown to some, and still changing. The term represents a broad group of people with various sexual identities and expressions — lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender — covering all the way from same-sex attraction to gender dysphoria (previously called gender identity disorder). LGBT is the broad title used by many in today’s world, to which some now add Q, for queer or questioning, and I for intersex.

Few issues have divided religions, cultures, society, and especially families, more than this one.

As an academic health sciences center, Loma Linda University Health serves individuals representing all aspects of the LGBT spectrum, for we are called to meet the world where it is. It is critical that we understand, treat and support everyone whom we encounter, regardless of their hereditary, cultivated, assigned or self-assumed sexual identity. That is what we do as health professionals. It is what our code of conduct expects of us. I don’t think anyone can argue with that. And in this meeting, this dialogue, we come to know LGBT people as individuals facing their own struggles and pathways through life.

As with so much of our knowledge in medical science today, our understanding of sexual identity is rapidly changing. When I was in medical school, we were taught that homosexuality was caused by an overbearing father, or was it the mother? Now we know that besides the few clear cases caused by abnormal X or Y sex chromosomal expression, there are many more genetic variations that modify various hormonal pathways and result in a broad spectrum of psychological and physical changes.

“Equal

What used to be a “binary” view of gender — you are either male or female — is now considered by many a “non-binary” model, where there is a whole spectrum of sexual identity and expression between the typically understood male and female ends of the spectrum.

These variations make sexual identity and practices difficult to understand, accept and navigate for many. For example, we have biological boys at birth with the strong and persistent sense that they are really girls “trapped in a boy’s body,” and vice versa. This comes so early in life that it cannot be considered a choice they are making but rather an internal identity caused by their particular genetic code and its expression.

As I have tried to get my mind around such fundamental questions, one of the most helpful books I’ve read was recommended by a church committee on which I serve. The book is “Understanding Gender Dysphoria” by Mark Yarhouse, a Christian psychologist trained at Wheaton University. As one reads through the many case histories he shares, you have to be filled with both confusion and compassion for the huge dilemmas many people find themselves in as they seek to understand and deal with their sexuality/gender identity. The January 2017 issue of National Geographic, titled “Gender Revolution,” tells stories from around the world detailing how different cultures have treated these individuals. This is clearly not just a Western phenomenon, but part of the entire human experience.

This new reality and understanding now presents us with the need for a major paradigm shift in our relations with each other. How do I relate to someone who is different from me in such a fundamental way, yet deserves my care and friendship as much as anyone else? My own interactions suggest that most LGBT individuals are not trying to stand out, or fly a flag — they are longing to be accepted as a part of the human race and community they find themselves in, fellow travelers on this earth, just like the rest of us.

Yarhouse suggests that transgender individuals have three choices for understanding themselves and how to live their lives — as the traditional (to identify with one’s birth anatomy), as understanding one’s self to have a disability (a variation from normal) or to see oneself as representative of the great diversity in the world. What we know with certainty is that the emotional stress on LGBT individuals, particularly those dealing with transgender issues, leads to a very high suicide rate. Higher than normal rates of depression and social isolation are also widespread among others identifying under the LGBT umbrella.

“Walking

Now, hang on, I know all about the Bible texts that talk about sexual variations, their sinfulness and results. But I also know that Christ Himself spent His time on this earth reaching out to individuals who were marginalized during His day — prostitutes, lepers, the lame, blind, demon possessed, tax collectors and the poorest of the poor. While the Bible doesn’t give us a specific story about Jesus relating to an LGBT person, individuals under this umbrella would certainly fit into His lexicon of those deserving His compassion and care. The question of causation asked of Him about the blind man — “Who sinned, this man or his parents?”— seems very pertinent here. Christ’s answer — “Neither, but to glorify God” — acknowledges His acceptance regardless of causation.

So what are we to do? What am I to do? What is Loma Linda University Health to do when LGBT individuals seek out our campus as a place of understanding and healing? They are certainly here, some we know about and I am sure many we don’t. Do we accept or reject? Do we brand and watch, or integrate and care? It seems to me the old acronym WWJD (What Would Jesus Do?) comes to bear here as we acknowledge each individual as a child of God. It seems to me that this is not a time for judgment, but rather a time for acceptance, a time for offering emotional support during a difficult journey. What better role can you and I play than to relate to LGBT individuals as part of the family of struggling human beings to which we all belong?

Respectfully yours,

“Richard

 

 

 

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

 

Vision 2020: The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow 

]]>
Thu, 02 Feb 2017 12:09:35 -0800
4264:29327 <![CDATA[Brotherly love?]]> Terry Swenson “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love …”

–Romans 12:10 

Of all of the similes that Paul, the author of the book of Romans, could have chosen to describe love, why did he choose the sibling relationship to describe how we should love, care and interact with each other? Siblings. When you think about your siblings is love the first word that comes to mind?

I have three older sisters. When we were children, my youngest sister and I were more often than not mortal enemies. Let me share an illustrative story. When I was just a little fellow, I would watch my TV programs with a focus and intensity that caused me to totally zone out on anything else around me. My sister knew this about me. She also knew that my father had laid down the law that as a male I was not allowed to strike a female — sisters included!

My sister waited until I was totally engrossed in the TV. She snuck up behind me and landed a hammer blow with her fist between my shoulder blades. I struck back in painful anger. With wails and anguish that far eclipsed any damage I did and that would have made any Shakespearian actor envious, she ran to tell my father how I had broken the law. Judgment was swift. Education was applied to the “seat of learning.” And there stood my sister smugly smiling at her handiwork.

Needless to say, at that moment my feelings towards her were not ones of love! Of course, we grew out of those childhood spats and now I am so grateful for my sister's presence in my life. I had and still have a love for my sisters that runs deep. Why? Because we are siblings. We are family. Despite the good and the bad or the ups and the downs, blood runs thicker than water.

That’s the point Paul was getting at. Those of us who identify ourselves as being a part of God’s family because of the sacrifice of Jesus need to remember like the Romans that we are connected through His blood. We will disagree, disturb and even differ from one another, but we are to be devoted to one another in brotherly and sisterly love.

In our relationships with each other at Loma Linda University Health, we will have ups and downs and good moments and bad moments, but we work through them and grow beyond them because — well — because we are family. That’s what Jesus wants for us. That’s a part of His teaching and healing ministry. So be devoted to one another. Forgive one another. Work through things with one another. That’s what a family does.

Terry Swenson, DMin
Campus chaplain
Loma Linda University

]]>
Thu, 26 Jan 2017 15:40:22 -0800
4264:29321 <![CDATA[Season 3 of 'Life on the Line' to re-air on KVCR]]> Nancy Yuen Season 3 of “Life on the Line,” Loma Linda University Health’s national TV show, is re-airing Wednesdays at 7 p.m. on KVCR channel 24. Each episode of “Life on the Line” explores the resilience and strength of the human spirit, from surviving Ebola to healing after a terrorist shooting.

KVCR Schedule: 

  • Feb. 1, 2017: It’s About the Journey 
  • Feb. 8, 2017: The Lasting Impact 
  • Feb. 15, 2017: Against All Odds 

In addition, Season 3 of “Life on the Line” is scheduled to air across the United States on the WORLD channel Mondays starting March 6. It is scheduled to broadcast at 3 p.m. Pacific Standard Time; 6 p.m. Eastern Time and Pacific Standard Time, and 9 p.m. Eastern Time. Find out how to watch WORLD channel here.

]]>
Thu, 26 Jan 2017 14:18:55 -0800
4264:29334 <![CDATA[Program about Islam to be inaugural event of new Center for Understanding World Religions]]> Heather Reifsnyder Religious hostility too often sits at the core of conflict and violence. Honest dialogue and mutual respect are part of the solution, and hence one reason Loma Linda University Health has created the William Johnsson Center for Understanding World Religions.

The new center, approved by the Board of Trustees in February 2016, will hold its inaugural event Saturday, Jan. 28; full details are below.

The name of the center recognizes William Johnsson, PhD, MA, and his contributions to promoting interreligious understanding in the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

He served as assistant for interfaith relations for former General Conference President Jan Paulsen for seven years following a prolific career in publishing and scholarship in the Adventist Church. Johnsson retired to Loma Linda in 2014, where he regularly teaches courses for LLU School of Religion and still writes books.

“Dr. Johnsson’s knowledge and passion for world religions have been invaluable to our campus,” says Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health.

Jon Paulien, PhD, dean of the School of Religion, who will serve as the center’s director, seconds Johnsson’s vast contributions. “The faculty of the School of Religion consider him one of the great Adventist figures of our era. His work with the Adventist Review and then interfaith relations has truly become legendary to us.”

Purpose of the center

Dean Paulien notes that central to the definition of a university is the exchange and understanding of diverse ideas — such as different religious beliefs.

“Working or studying at Loma Linda University Health is a calling, not a job,” Paulien says. “If God calls non-Christians to Loma Linda, then that is a spiritual gift to us. They can benefit us by testifying to what God has done in their lives.

“Furthermore, the surest way to people’s hearts is through their faith,” he continues. “We need to understand the hearts of our students and employees of other belief systems so that we can serve them appropriately.”

For its initial activities, the William Johnsson Center for Understanding World Religions will hold meetings twice yearly, each focusing on a different religion. 

Paulien says, “These programs will not be purely theoretical but will also include practitioners of that faith who are employees or students of Loma Linda University Health, sharing what it means to them, with an Adventist then responding about how Adventism at its best encourages Loma Linda to offer an environment where individuals of different faiths peacefully learn and practice alongside each other.”

Inaugural program — Islam

The inaugural event will take place this Saturday, Jan. 28, with a focus on the faith of Islam.

The 3-5 p.m. program will explore the role and experience of Muslim students and faculty in the context of Loma Linda University Health’s mission and values. It will meet at the Damazo Amphitheater in the Centennial Complex, 24760 Stewart St. Free parking behind the building is plenteous.

President Hart will offer an introduction, while Johnsson, the center’s namesake, will discuss the scope and purpose of this new enterprise. Johnsson also gave the initial donation to launch the center. 

The program’s expert presenters will almost all be students and faculty at Loma Linda University Health. A steering committee comprising Muslim faculty planned the event and selected the speakers.

Nahidh Hasaniya, MD, PhD, associate professor in the School of Medicine, will offer a recitation from the Quran, followed with a translation by Shamel Abd-Allah, MD, professor in the School of Medicine.

A special guest from Claremont School of Theology, Jihad Turk, MA, will offer a talk titled “Why I Am a Muslim.” Turk is president of Bayan Claremont, a seminary to educate Muslim scholars and religious leaders.

Two more LLU professors, Mahmoud Torabinejad, DMD, PhD, MSD, of the School of Dentistry, and Eba Hathout, MD, of the School of Medicine, will discuss “What It’s Like to Be a Muslim at LLU.” 

Gerald Winslow, PhD, director of the LLU Center for Christian Bioethics, will then speak about Seventh-day Adventism and Islam.

A panel discussion will follow, including Winslow, Hathout, Turk and Torabinejad as well as student Sara Haddad Tabrizi, LLU School of Public Health, and Khwaja Arsalaan Ahmed, radiology resident at Loma Linda University Medical Center. 

The choice of Islam as the first program’s focus reflects part of the impetus to start such a center at Loma Linda University Health.

Story of the center’s founding

The original suggestion for such a center came from Gabriela Profeta-Phillips, coordinator of Adventist-Muslim relations for the North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists. 

Phillips and other General Conference representatives met with the School of Religion dean to develop a proposal to share at LLU Deans Council on Dec. 2, 2015, unknowingly at the same time a young Muslim couple unleashed a terrorist attack on San Bernardino. In the wake of that tragic event, the Deans Council reacted very favorably to the idea, with top-level administrative commitment coming soon after.

Paulien remembers, “A month later, we held a meeting with local Muslim leaders, engaging with them to communicate to the community that we at Loma Linda University Health want to be a center of healing, not just for our own campus but more broadly. We expressed our desire to redouble our efforts to be a partner of peace in the wider community.”

]]>
Thu, 26 Jan 2017 15:51:56 -0800
4264:29330 <![CDATA[Employees receive new credit monitoring and identity repair benefit]]> Sarah Hayhoe, shayhoe@llu.edu Employees of Loma Linda University Health can now access professional credit monitoring and identity repair services with AllClear ID.

This new credit monitoring and identity repair service is available to employees for free thanks to their Loma Linda University Health employer covering the cost with support from the Living Whole Wellness Program and benefits department.

Upon enrolling, AllClear ID provides credit-monitoring services with phone and email notifications. Enroll using the passcode for Loma Linda University Health, which is available at peopleportal.llu.edu.

Whether or not they choose to enroll in credit monitoring, employees can always access identity repair services through AllClear ID.

To learn more, employees can contact their benefits representative in human resource management.

]]>
Thu, 26 Jan 2017 15:42:31 -0800
4264:29324 <![CDATA['One Homecoming,' March 2-6]]> Susan Onuma and Heather Reifsnyder Alumni from Loma Linda University’s eight professional schools, LLU-La Sierra graduates, and all current and former Medical Center and University staff members are invited to come together for a weekend of celebration, fellowship and continuing education opportunities March 2–6 on the Loma Linda University Health campus.

While Loma Linda University’s Schools of Medicine, Nursing, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Public Health, Allied Health Professions, Behavioral Health and Religion will each hold functions for their individual alumni, the “One Homecoming” weekend will also include many activities that will bring the groups together for joint activities and receptions. View the complete schedule.

President Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, says, “For some time now, those of us who live and work here have thought,What would it be like if we had one united alumni weekend instead of several — if we shared our stories and relationships with each other, spanning generations and disciplines, cultures and faiths?’” Hart, the school deans and administrators of LLU Medical Center committed to the idea last year, with the goal of everyone gathering together as One Loma Linda. The March 2-6, 2017, One Homecoming event could become the first annual of many more to come.

Weekend events

The Healthy People in Healthy Communities Conference, an annual event now in its 44th year, will be held March 2 and 3 at the Drayson Center, including its first annual Symposium on Blue Zone Area Science. Dan Buettner, founder of the Blue Zones® Project and National Geographic fellow, will offer the keynote address and lead several informative sessions on day one. The U.S. surgeon general, Vice Admiral Vivek Murthy, will offer the keynote address on day two of the conference. Preregistration is encouraged, as space will be limited. 

Also getting top billing during homecoming will be the wealth of research at Loma Linda.

The Centennial Complex will host the display “Come Home to Discovery: Research at Loma Linda University Health.” Days one and two will feature research from all eight professional schools; days three and four will showcase research from Loma Linda University School of Medicine as part of the 85th Annual Postgraduate Convention of the School of Medicine. The convention is for all physicians, physician assistants and nurses.

The roles of other supporting services such as research affairs, advancement and other components (global research and spiritual life) that are unique to Loma Linda University Health will also be represented.

The fourth floor of the Centennial Complex will be transformed with a History of Research pavilion and a Museum of Discovery and Inventions, as well as individual research projects and areas highlighting projects within each of the schools by student researchers and faculty members. 

Special spiritual programs are planned for Friday night and Sabbath, bringing everyone together in one gathering. A 5K will take place Sunday morning.

How to sign up

Alumni are encouraged to register for One Homecoming. To sign up for offerings by a specific school, they should navigate to the “School Affiliation” tab on the registration page and select the name of their respective school.

Non-alumni who wish to see all event offerings can go directly to the “Register for all Offerings” button.

]]>
Thu, 26 Jan 2017 15:37:35 -0800
4264:29204 <![CDATA[Are you lacking social connectedness?]]> Heather Reifsnyder and Esmerelda Guerrero WellnessLIVE. What is it, and why does it matter?

This program is a series of live online presentations provided by the Living Whole Wellness Program at Loma Linda University Health. The free programs feature campus experts who connect viewers with new research, best practices and innovative strategies for whole living.

The next live presentation will take place Wednesday, Jan. 25, from 5:30 to 6 p.m. Ritchie Pruehs, LMFT, will speak about social connectedness. He is a clinical therapist with the employee and student assistance program at Loma Linda University Health.

Join the free program to explore why social engagement is important to health and well-being. 

“A sense of belonging, connectedness and engagement in the places and spaces that matter to us is critical to our well-being, both physically and mentally,” says Olivia Moses, DrPH, director of corporate health and wellness. She directs the Living Whole Wellness Program.

View the live program at myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole/wellnesslive, as well as On Demand WellnessLIVE presentations from 2016.

]]>
Thu, 19 Jan 2017 12:33:50 -0800
4264:29194 <![CDATA['Our diversity is God's creative expression']]> Heather Reifsnyder and Larry Becker “The preamble to diversity is holding the foundational perception that we are all the same —all are human and all deserve the rights and respect and love that go with that. Our diversity is God's creative expression.” – Terry Swenson, DMin, chaplain for Loma Linda University

Swenson is a member of Loma Linda University Health’s Diversity Council, which plays a key role in helping understand our similarities and differences. The 22 members of this council are anxious to discover both best practices and areas of concern across campus and have offered to meet with anyone who has ideas or comments to share.

News of the Week is running a series introducing Diversity Council members. Learn more about Swenson’s vision for diversity at Loma Linda University Health.

As a faith-based institution, Loma Linda University Health is committed to the fundamental principle that every person is created of equal value in God’s sight. Learn more about the Diversity Council in the words of President Richard Hart, MD, DrPH.

 

]]>
Thu, 19 Jan 2017 12:14:49 -0800
4264:29196 <![CDATA[Expectations matter ]]> Kathy McMillan “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” –Hebrews 10:24 

In the late 1960s, a researcher named Robert Rosenthal told teachers in an elementary school that five of the students in their class had tested as academically gifted and would perform better in their schoolwork than their classmates. The truth was that the students had been selected randomly; they were no more gifted than the other students. However, the expectations of the teachers led them to treat the children differently. It is likely that those five students got more attention and feedback. The result was that by the end of the year, these five indeed tested higher than their classmates.

The Pygmalion effect that was demonstrated in this study has been replicated in other studies as well. It is common knowledge that when we have high expectations of others, they will often live up to those expectations. 

Maybe you have witnessed this in your own life. Perhaps you have a mentor who believes in you or a boss who is particularly supportive. Because of their trust, you go above and beyond their expectations and hopes. Maybe you even surprise yourself with your abilities!

Now think about the people who are challenging to you; they irritate you and consistently let you down. After several disappointing encounters, you start to expect that they will continue to under-perform and treat you badly. When you hear their name, your blood pressure rises and you begin to feel angry.

The writer of Hebrews encourages us to “spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” What would it take for us to change our expectations of others?  Is it possible that we might be able to change our attitude toward that person of whom we have a negative opinion and start anticipating kindness and positive actions from them? What a difference that might make! Research indicates they might respond with better behavior.

But even if the other person never changes, the difference in our own attitude will have a positive impact on life and health. Thinking well of others will bring joy and satisfaction into our life. In addition, we can influence the climate of Loma Linda University Health. Let’s believe the best of others; let’s spur each other on toward a better life. It is the way of Jesus!

Kathy McMillan, MA
Director of employee spiritual care
Loma Linda University Medical Center

]]>
Thu, 19 Jan 2017 12:17:25 -0800
4264:29198 <![CDATA[Professional societies choose leaders from LLU]]> Heather Reifsnyder and Doug Hackleman Experts from Loma Linda University are leading the way in their health care specialties as recently chosen leaders for professional societies. Two are faculty members in the School of Medicine, and one is an alumnus of the School of Dentistry.

California Dental Association

Clelan “Butch” Ehrler, DDS, MS, became president of the California Dental Association on Jan. 1, succeeding Ken Wallis, DDS, another alumnus of LLU School of Dentistry.

Ehrler has previously held numerous leadership positions with the 26,000-member California Dental Association, including roles on several key committees.

Beyond the degrees he earned at Loma Linda University School of Dentistry, Ehrler is also a teaching alumnus of the school, where he served as assistant professor in the department of orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics between 1973 and 1995.

During a November 2016 speech to the House of Delegates of the California Dental Association, Ehrler emphasized the importance of dental societies to support the profession and chart its course for the future.

American Society of Anesthesiologists

Professor of Anesthesiology Linda Mason, MD, was elected in October 2016 as first vice president of the American Society of Anesthesiologists, which has more than 52,000 members. As part of the executive committee, she helps expedite, execute and administer the society’s policies. The society serves to advocate for the highest standards in anesthesiology practice and patient care.

“I am honored to be elected first vice president of the American Society of Anesthesiologists,” says Mason, who is also an alumna of LLU School of Medicine. 

“This is a critical time for the specialty of anesthesiology,” she says, “and I am committed to preserving patient safety, patient rights and the role of physician anesthesiologists as leaders in these important issues.”  

American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Daniel Mills, MD, associate clinical professor of plastic and reconstructive surgery, is now president of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, an organization devoted to patient safety, education and the advancement of the profession, with more than 2,600 members.

Mills says, “It is a privilege to be at the helm of one of the most prestigious and important organizations in our specialty.

“As a graduate of the Loma Linda University School of Medicine class of 1982, I am dually honored to be a representative of Loma Linda University as a leader in plastic surgery.”

]]>
Thu, 19 Jan 2017 12:19:28 -0800
4264:29210 <![CDATA[Grand opening -- Digital Production Ink]]> Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Health is celebrating the successful launch of Digital Production Ink with a ribbon-cutting and grand opening ceremony Wednesday, Jan. 25.

The action takes place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the ribbon-cutting scheduled for 10:15 in the morning.

Employees, students and community members are invited to visit the store and take advantage of giveaways, raffles and refreshments, including free drinks from Boba Tea House for the first 100 people. The store is located adjacent to the Loma Linda Market, 11161 Anderson Street, Suite 105.

"We are excited to let the campus and community know of our new location and new services we have to offer,” says Jennifer Rowland, manager. “It has been a long time in the works, and with the hard work of our employees and the support of the campus, we are happy to say we have many new services we can provide to our customers. I hope that everyone is able to stop by on the 25th for our grand opening." 

Digital Production Ink serves the graphics, mailing and printing needs for Loma Linda University Health and the surrounding community. Its products and services range from marketing materials to large format printing to embroidery and graphic design — and more. The store even offers P.O. boxes and shipping through UPS and the U.S. Postal Service.

Digital Production Ink is open Monday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Fridays from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

Learn more at dpi.llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 19 Jan 2017 12:41:29 -0800
4264:29200 <![CDATA[Improve your financial wellness with new free benefit]]> Sarah Hayhoe, shayhoe@llu.edu Revolutionize your New Year’s resolutions with SmartDollar.

This new financial wellness program, designed by Dave Ramsey, is available at no cost to employees, thanks to their Loma Linda University Health employer, Living Whole Wellness Program and benefits department.

SmartDollar’s motivating content, budgeting tools and expert advice will help employees reach their financial goals in 2017.

Download the flier below the image to learn more and enroll. 

]]>
Thu, 19 Jan 2017 12:23:30 -0800
4264:29208 <![CDATA[Expectations exceeded -- by far -- in bone marrow registration drive]]> Heather Reifsnyder The cold and rain of Jan. 12 couldn’t stop the employees and students of Loma Linda University Health from doing their part.

You see, a bone marrow transplant is the only hope for many patients with blood cancers. Every three minutes, a new individual in the United States receives a diagnosis of such a cancer, like leukemia. The more individuals who register as potential marrow donors with national registry Be The Match, the more hope these patients have of finding a compatible donor — and a cure.

To help boost the pool of potential donors, Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital, along with Be the Match, held a screening event on campus that damp and chill Thursday. 

Beverly Lovejoy, RN, reports what happened. She is nurse coordinator at Children’s Hospital for pediatric blood and marrow transplant/apheresis. 

“Our Be the Match representative said hospital drives (for whatever reason) generally average 30-40 people to join. The best she’s ever seen was done in a span of two days, and that drive got a little over 100 people to join. Even her home hospital location doesn’t have turnouts greater than 60 people for one eight-hour drive.

“So when we first agreed to have a drive here, the representative asked what our goal was. I said, ‘Easy, 100!’ Her expectation was 30, so we planned for 40. At 6 p.m., one hour into the drive, we were at 60 (even before shift change). And in a span of four hours, outside, in the rain and freezing cold – 138 people joined the Be the Match registry!” 

Scott Perryman, MBA, senior vice president of Children’s Hospital, joins Lovejoy in thanking those who took time on a dreary day to sign up for the registry.

“I feel great gratitude toward the individuals who overlooked the weather and the demands life places on us all to take a few minutes to possibly save the live of a child such as those we treat every day at LLU Children’s Hospital,” Perryman says.

With how successful the drive was, the Children’s Hospital plans to hold more in the future; stay tuned for announcements.

Curious what the signup process is like? Learn more about how to possibly save a life.

]]>
Thu, 19 Jan 2017 12:39:00 -0800
4264:29206 <![CDATA[Honoring those who keep us safe]]> James Ponder A record crowd of more than 225 attendees turned out to help Loma Linda University Health honor the people who keep us all safe at work during the 2017 annual safety coordinators awards luncheon Jan. 11 at the Centennial Complex.

While five individual awards were presented, Vicki Brown, safety programs coordinator, insists that many more are deserving. 

After pointing out that this year marks the 40th anniversary of the safety coordinator program on campus, Brown added that there are currently 382 safety coordinators across all entities of the Loma Linda University Health enterprise. Each one of them deserves to be applauded for their efforts, she noted. 

“The 40th year celebration was a great success,” she said. “It’s a tremendous concept to have a safety coordinator in each department. Leadership is recognizing that.”

Helping mark the milestone celebration were administrators Mark Hubbard, senior vice president for risk management; Lyndon Edwards, MBA, MHS, senior vice president for adult hospital services; Jonathan Jean-Marie, MHA, vice president for East Campus and Surgical Hospital; Mike Mahoney, MBA, vice president of clinic operations, and Rod Neal, MBA, senior vice president of financial affairs.

They joined Brett McPherson, director of environmental health and safety, and Brown in presenting awards to the following individuals:

  • Alisa Wilson, LLU School of Dentistry, 2016 Safety Honor Award 
  • Chris Brooks, LLU Medical Center East Campus, Excellence in Safety Recognition Award 
  • Rachael Millett, LLU Medical Center, Excellence in Safety Recognition Award
  • Marco Soto, LLU Medical Center and East Campus, 2016 Safety Coordinator of the Year Award 

Two other men were recognized at the event. Don Bender was honored for his pioneering efforts in life safety during the last 40 years of his career, and Mark Hubbard was cited for providing administrative support for 30 years. McPherson noted that it has allowed the safety coordinator program to grow into what it is today.

“Without a top-down initiative, safety can get pushed to the back burner,” McPherson noted. “Mark’s support — and the support of the rest of the administrators — is invaluable to the success of the program.”

Bender, who served as the first-ever safety coordinator on campus, retired in 2010 after 52 years of service to the organization. His final position was loss control officer manager for the department of environmental health and safety.

At the event, Bender was joined in celebration by his wife, Rita, and colleagues Jim Redfield and Hal Curtis.

At the end of the program, Ehren Ngo, MS, emergency operations manager, spoke for a few minutes about plans to increase awareness of a variety of safety issues to help employees and members of their families cope with natural or man-made disasters.

“We wouldn’t be the safe campus we currently are if it wasn’t for our safety coordinators,” Ngo said.

Brown concluded, “They are out in their own departments inspecting, observing, reporting safety issues, and working to get them resolved — keeping their areas a safe place. Our safety coordinators are invaluable!”

 

]]>
Thu, 19 Jan 2017 12:36:54 -0800
4264:29159 <![CDATA[HR customer service is now 'one']]> A new customer service model is live for the human resource management department at Loma Linda University Health.

“Through this new concept, you only have to remember one email, one phone number and one website for all needs and services,” says Lizette Norton, assistant vice president for human resource management. The new system debuted at the beginning of January.

Email: humanresourcemgt@llu.edu
Phone:
909-651-4001 or ext. 14001
Website: one.lluh.org/hr 

Customer service representatives will answer any HR question received by telephone or email. When the question or situation must be referred to a specialist, the customer service representatives will do so utilizing a case management system and collaborate with subject matter experts in HR to expedite resolutions.

The department is also updating its website to include FAQ and frequently requested forms and documents.

“We sincerely hope that this updated HR customer service model will enhance how we serve you,” Norton says. “We remain committed to excellence through our daily interactions. It is our pleasure to partner with you as we work together to serve our community.” 

]]>
Thu, 12 Jan 2017 13:33:05 -0800
4264:29143 <![CDATA[Two lives saved in kidney exchange at LLU Medical Center]]> Briana Pastorino Two adults now have a longer, healthier life ahead of them thanks to two complete strangers. The first internal paired kidney exchange was successfully completed at Loma Linda University Medical Center on Nov. 28, 2016.

The chain began when an altruistic donor from Orange County gave a kidney to an individual from the Inland Empire. That recipient had a willing donor who was not a compatible match and so gave to another individual in need of a kidney.

One of the recipients of the kidney exchange had been waiting on the deceased donor list for nine years, which, although a long span of time, is not uncommon. Most patients wait as long as five to 10 years to receive a kidney from a deceased donor.

“Living-donor chains have the potential to dramatically reduce transplant waiting times for thousands of patients,” says Rafael Villicana, MD, a transplant nephrologist and medical director of the kidney transplant program at Loma Linda University Transplantation Institute. "This is the best way for patients with incompatible donors to be transplanted quickly and achieve the best results."

A living donor can eliminate the wait for individuals needing a new kidney. But in one third of such cases, a transplant cannot be done because the immune systems of the patient and a willing donor don't match.

Each chain begins when an altruistic person steps forward to donate a kidney, expecting nothing in return. 

While Loma Linda has been involved in other kidney exchanges, this is the first that was all done in house. 

Approximately 130 kidney transplants are performed at Loma Linda University Medical Center annually. 

The Medical Center has been doing kidney transplants since 1967; the hospital will celebrate 50 years of kidney transplantation in April 2017. 

The LLU Transplantation Institute shares the Loma Linda University Health concept of “whole person care,” providing extensive counseling on diet and healthy lifestyle, as well as organizing support groups for patients and their caregivers in an environment that welcomes each person’s spirituality and individuality.

Outreach clinics in Southern California are centered in Rancho Mirage, Glendale and Murrieta. A fourth clinic is located in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The Transplantation Institute oversees adult and pediatric heart transplants, adult liver transplants, adult and pediatric kidney transplants, adult pancreatic transplants and pediatric bone marrow transplants. Combination transplants are performed as needed, including kidney/pancreas, liver/kidney, liver/pancreas and heart/kidney.

Learn more about the Loma Linda University Transplantation Institute.

]]>
Thu, 12 Jan 2017 11:40:38 -0800
4264:29148 <![CDATA[Tonight only -- bone marrow registration drive]]> Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Health will host a bone marrow drive Thursday, Jan. 12, from 5 to 9 p.m. in the breezeway between the Medical Center and Coleman/Chan Shun Pavilions. Employees and students age 18 to 44 are invited to come and register as a potential bone marrow donor.

Every three minutes someone is diagnosed with a blood cancer. The good news is that for many, a cure exists through bone marrow transplantation, according to Be The Match, the registry operated by the National Marrow Donor Program.

Learn more about marrow donation, and start the new year by possibly saving a life. Register as a potential donor tonight.

]]>
Thu, 12 Jan 2017 11:46:19 -0800
4264:29150 <![CDATA[How to receive your W-2 electronically]]> Loma Linda University Health employees who wish to receive their W-2 wage and tax statement electronically must register at  www.paperlessemployee.com/LomaLinda on or before Sunday, Jan. 15. The confidential process takes just a few minutes.

Once registered, employees can view, print and save their W-2 from Jan. 31 through Oct. 15, 2017, without a fee. This service is valid for all future tax years unless you elect to opt out. 

Employees who do not register will receive a hard copy of their W-2 in the mail, postmarked by Jan. 31. 

Employees who have previously registered to receive an electronic W-2 but forgotten their username and/or password can request a reset at www.paperlessemployee.com/LomaLinda.

For complete instructions, visit PeoplePortal and refer to the electronic W-2 user guide.

For questions, contact the payroll department at 909-651-4004, ext. 14004, or Payroll@llu.edu. The department’s hours are Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Friday 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Note: Employees of Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta should contact their separate payroll department for information about receiving their W-2s.

]]>
Thu, 12 Jan 2017 11:56:57 -0800
4264:29152 <![CDATA[Pray ...]]> Dilys Brooks “… and pray for one another.” James 5:16

At the beginning of each year there are many who make resolutions or commitments to break old habits or cultivate new ones. Those of us who have attempted to keep these promises, faithfully, for 365 days can confess that it is difficult to maintain momentum when the vagaries of life overtake us. The unexpected illness or loss of a loved one or colleague, or unplanned changes in work and location are just a few of those things that can come up and get in the way of our pledges.

It is with the 50 remaining weeks of 2017 in mind that I feel compelled to invite each of us who works for Loma Linda University Health to embark upon a journey of praying for one another each Tuesday. We began our winter Week of Renewal this week with a prayer walk Monday dedicating the facilities and staff to God and asking His blessing and guidance on each of us. The resolve to pray each week is one that we can keep regardless of unanticipated trials because it is through prayer that we will be able to navigate them.

Why pray? Prayer was a spiritual practice that was integrated in the life of Jesus. A survey of the gospels reveals that He often separated Himself from the crowds and followers to spend time in prayer. James, the brother of Jesus, places prayer as essential in the life of a person of faith. One biblical tradition nicknames James “camel knees” because of the calluses he allegedly developed from long hours spent in prayer.

The founders of Loma Linda University Health were also well acquainted with prayer as they sought funding and direction when embarking upon the dream of creating a place where the sick could be cared for and taught how to live healthfully.

In our effort to remain connected as an organization this year, prayer becomes one of the tools we can use to deepen and strengthen our commitment to stay on mission. When we pray, healing, comfort, encouragement and change occur in the life of the practitioner as well as those being prayed for.

During this Week of Renewal, one activity we were encouraged to do was create physical prayer chains in our departments as tangible reminders to pray for one another.

Let us keep the momentum going by renewing our pledge to pray for each other as we face an untried future in the days and weeks ahead.

Dilys Brooks, MDiv
Associate campus chaplain
Loma Linda University

]]>
Thu, 12 Jan 2017 12:27:36 -0800
4264:29133 <![CDATA[Give hope -- give life -- give blood ]]> Nancy Yuen Did you know that heart surgery patients require as many as six units of red blood cells, cancer patients may need up to eight platelet transfusions every week, and a trauma patient may need as many as 50 units of red blood cells and plasma and platelet transfusions to survive? Every day blood donors help save lives.

Next Wednesday, Jan. 18, Loma Linda University Health and LifeStream blood bank will collaborate twice to help our patients and community.

Wednesday morning, the LifeStream donation van will visit Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta, 28062 Baxter Road, Murrieta, from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Also on Jan. 18, from 12 to 5 p.m., a LifeStream van will visit Loma Linda University School of Public Health, 24851 Circle Drive.

To participate, donors’ last whole-blood donation must have been on or before Nov. 23, 2016.

According Don Escalante, public relations specialist, LifeStream, first-time donors will receive a card four to six weeks after their first donation on which their blood type is listed. “From that point forward, the card serves as ID each time they give blood with LifeStream,” says Escalante, “and it is also valuable to have on their person in the event they need an emergency transfusion.”

According to Escalante, there will be terrific promotional items at both drives.

In addition to a free cholesterol screening, donors will receive a $10 Amazon gift card. Donors also receive Gift of Life Donor Loyalty points that may be redeemed in the online donor store for gift cards and clothing. 

]]>
Wed, 11 Jan 2017 11:48:47 -0800
4264:29139 <![CDATA[A field guide to your new employee benefits]]> Sarah Hayhoe, shayhoe@llu.edu Revolutionize your New Year’s resolutions with these valuable new benefits brought to you by your Loma Linda University Health employer in partnership with the Living Whole Wellness Program and your benefits department.

SmartDollar and AllClear ID benefits apply to all Loma Linda entities; however, please note that employees of the following Loma Linda entities have different retirement benefits instead of the AHRP benefits illustrated below: Loma Linda University, Loma Linda University Health Care, Loma Linda University Health Education Consortium and Loma Linda University Faculty Medical Group. For further details, contact your benefits representative. 

Download this image below as a PDF with live links to the new services. 

]]>
Thu, 12 Jan 2017 11:25:28 -0800
4264:29039 <![CDATA[Devotional -- Standing back to back]]> Terry Swenson Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” ­–Galatians 6:2

As the year 2016 drew to a close, social media filled with comments and postings claiming that it had been the worst year ever. True, it was a year filled with crime and terror, the deaths of many well-known people and one of the most contentious and negative presidential campaigns in many people’s memories — but the worst? Is that possible? 

What is certain is that many look to the new year of 2017 with feelings that run from excitement to foreboding. What will happen in politics — worldwide, nationally and locally? Will our financial climate improve or crash? What will happen to our environment?

Let’s bring it closer to home. What will happen with the problems you are facing? How is your health or that of your loved ones? Will you get or keep a job? What will transpire in your marriage or relationship with your significant other?

One of my family holiday traditions is to watch three movies: “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” (don’t judge!), “White Christmas” and “It’s a Wonderful Life.” While watching the last one, I was fascinated with the marked contrast in pace of life between 1940s Bedford Falls and 2017’s frantic/fevered/tumultuous/frenetic existence. In Bedford Falls, people knew each other. People took time to talk, celebrate, mourn and just be with each other. And when the main character, George Bailey, hit a major crisis in his life and it proved more than he could bear, the people of Bedford Falls rallied around him. They helped bear the burden that George could not.

Which brings us to our passage for today: “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” When I read these words of Paul, I was somewhat surprised. He talks about the “law of Christ.” Jesus proclaimed that, when we love each other like He loves us, we fulfill His law. Paul adds the twist that we show this love expressly through bearing one another’s burdens.

Who is helping you carry the weight of your life’s burdens and problems? Or are you one of those people who keeps a false front and stiff upper lip, grits your teeth and tackles everything by yourself? How is that working out for you? Solomon observed in Ecclesiastes 4:12: “A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.”

As we enter into 2017 here at Loma Linda University Health, why don’t we fulfill the law of Christ together and follow Solomon’s strategy of standing back to back, helping others bear the burdens of their lives? Let us bind ourselves together with the presence, power and love of Jesus. You know, 2017 is looking like it can be a great year!

Terry Swenson, DMin
Chaplain
Loma Linda University

]]>
Thu, 05 Jan 2017 10:52:13 -0800
4264:29041 <![CDATA[Understanding diversity improves whole person care]]> Heather Reifsnyder and Larry Becker “To effectively do the work of continuing the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ, we must gain greater understanding of a variety of perspectives from as many people as possible.” –Lyndon Edwards, MBA, MHS, senior vice president, adult hospital services

Edwards is a member of Loma Linda University Health’s Diversity Council, which plays a key role in helping understand our similarities and differences. The 22 members of this council are anxious to discover both best practices and areas of concern across campus and have offered to meet with anyone who has ideas or comments to share.

News of the Week is running a series introducing Diversity Council members. Learn more about Edwards’ vision for diversity at Loma Linda University Health.

As a faith-based institution, Loma Linda University Health is committed to the fundamental principle that every person is created of equal value in God’s sight. Learn more about the Diversity Council in the words of President Richard Hart, MD, DrPH.

]]>
Thu, 05 Jan 2017 11:09:14 -0800
4264:29075 <![CDATA[How-to: New Year's resolutions that stick]]> Research suggests that approximately half of Americans make New Year’s resolutions, yet only 8 percent actually achieve them.

It doesn’t have to be that way. You can successfully use the start of the year to make significant changes that create a lasting impact on your life. If you’ve encountered difficulties following through with your goals, resolve to make 2017 different.

How?

The Living Whole Wellness Program at Loma Linda University Health is offering two programs (Unstuck and For Life) to help employees and benefit-covered spouses to do so. Both programs are free when attendance requirements are met.

Additionally, if your New Year’s resolution is specifically about weight loss, there is a third free program designed for this goal — Say N.O.W. (No to Overweight).

Read about all three programs:

 

Unstuck Program

Learn how to stick with it. The Unstuck Program is a cognitive educational group for people struggling to make healthy changes. The program will help attendees set goals, make an action plan and stay motivated.

The eight-week program starts Thursday, Feb. 2, at 5:30 p.m.

 

For Life

Enthusiasm for making healthy changes can wear off quickly. However, it is possible to stay committed and maintain your health goals. The For Life program is designed to provide you with accountability, tips on how to maintain healthy changes and information on strategically planning for roadblocks or barriers.

The 10-week program starts Thursday, Feb. 2, at 5:30 p.m. Space is limited.

To register and receive additional information for either of these programs, call the Living Whole Wellness Program at ext. 14007 before Friday, Jan. 27. To achieve maximum benefit, participants must have a one-on-one appointment with their class facilitator by the 27th. This enables the Living Whole Wellness Program to offer personalized services.

 

Say N.O.W. (No to Overweight)

A healthy weight is important for overall health, as well as prevention and control of many diseases and conditions.

Even a small weight loss is beneficial for those who are overweight. Research shows health can be greatly improved by a loss of just 5 to 10 percent of one’s initial body weight. That doesn’t mean you have to stop there, but it does mean that an initial goal of losing 5-10 percent of your starting weight is both realistic and valuable. 

Say N.O.W (No to Overweight) provides weight management resources to employees and covered spouses; it is free when attendance and other program requirements are met.

Instead of promising a quick fix, this program helps participants focus on the importance of physical activity and nutrition, while addressing motivation, obstacles and pitfalls that make losing weight and keeping it off so challenging. 

To get more information or to sign up, call ext. 14007. Start date varies by track. The program duration is four months of active participation (8-12 weeks of weekly meetings plus additional requirements).

***

Learn more about the Living Whole Wellness Program.

]]>
Thu, 05 Jan 2017 14:24:14 -0800
4264:29052 <![CDATA[Week of Renewal -- Get 'Connected']]> Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Health begins each new calendar year with a Week of Renewal bringing together all students, faculty and employees. Apropos, the theme for 2017’s Week of Renewal is “Connected.”

A full slate of daily opportunities for renewal takes place Jan. 9 through 14, ranging from University@Worship at 11 a.m. and Refresh at 3 p.m. to noon programming at Murrieta and Behavioral Medicine Center, as well as a lunch concert on the Campus Mall featuring contemporary Christian artist Tim Timmons (with burritos for concert attendees while supplies last). 

Get full details at LomaLindaRenewal.org, where all chapel and Refresh services will also be broadcast live (and on hospital channel 17). The website will also host videos of “Refresh” programs soon afterwards for viewing at your convenience.

The complete schedule can be downloaded below this story, as well.

The week includes a service component through a clothing drive Jan. 10–12 for patients in need at SAC Health System in San Bernardino. This effort will be amplified by Goodwill, which will donate a $10 gift certificate to SAC patients for every two bags of clothing collected. Find collection bins at:

• Medical Center lobby
• Behavioral Medicine Center gym
• East Campus staff lounge
• Surgical Hospital employee entrance
• Drayson Center lobby
• LLUH 101 Building south entrance 

Additionally, leaders of departments and teams are encouraged to dive deeper into growing “Connected” by participating in any of the following uplifting activities.

• Staff Connect: Provide sticky notes in your work area and encourage team members to write notes of appreciation to each other, posting the notes in a designated office location.

• Prayer Connect: Create a paper prayer chain by writing and linking prayer requests together. Each person commits to pray for the request before theirs on the chain. Specially designed slips of paper are available in packets of 24 by emailing printjob@llu.edu.

• Team Connect: Choose another department on campus to honor for its collaboration and teamwork. Download the customizable certificate of appreciation below, perhaps adding balloons or treats to the delivery.

Connect to Make a Difference: "I Am Making a Difference” ribbons will be available to give away to individuals across campus who have made a positive impact in your life. Call ext. 87261 for details. 

For additional details contact Kathy McMillan, MA, director of employee spiritual care, at ext. 48406 or kmcmillan@llu.edu.

“We hope individuals and teams will benefit from the Week of Renewal and gain refreshment in spirit,” McMillan says. 

]]>
Thu, 05 Jan 2017 13:46:19 -0800
4264:29043 <![CDATA[Kerry Heinrich earns top honor]]> Briana Pastorino Loma Linda University Medical Center CEO Kerry Heinrich, JD, has been named one of "135 Nonprofit Hospital and Health System CEOs to Know" by Becker’s Hospital Review. 

Loma Linda University Health president Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, states that Heinrich is more than deserving of the recognition from Becker’s. “In the ever-changing world of health care, it takes an individual with knowledge, patience, compassion and commitment to lead a hospital system to success,” Hart says. “And that is exactly what Kerry Heinrich continues to do.”

Hart adds, “Heinrich is dedicated to this organization, and it shows in all that he does here. I am honored to call him a colleague and a friend.” 

Heinrich became CEO of LLU Medical Center, Children's Hospital and Behavioral Medicine Center in August 2014. An attorney, he joined Loma Linda University Health in 1984 and served on the legal counsel team. He previously served as partner at Schilt & Heinrich, LLP, a Loma Linda-based law firm.

Lyndon Edwards, MBA, MHS, senior vice president/administrator of Loma Linda University Medical Center adult services, states that Heinrich is a visionary leader who exemplifies servant-leadership. 

“He has focused our team on transforming the care that we provide at Loma Linda through improved collaboration with our faculty physicians,” Lyndon says. “He has an acute focus on quality and reengineering operations through process improvement. Even in the midst of leading our expensive and complex campus transformation project, Kerry has kept our team focused on our primary objective of providing excellent care to patients.”

According to Becker’s Hospital Review, the men and women on this list lead some of the largest, most successful and prominent nonprofit health care organizations in the country. They were selected based on editorial judgment and discretion. Nominations were considered when making selections for the list.

Becker's Hospital Review has published a version of this list every year since 2012, and this is the first time the list has included 135 leaders.

The full list features individual profiles of all 135 leaders. Hospitals are presented in alphabetical order.

]]>
Thu, 05 Jan 2017 12:03:44 -0800
4264:29050 <![CDATA[In Memoriam: U.S. Rep. Shirley Neil Pettis, friend of Loma Linda University Health]]> Shirley Neil Pettis, former U.S. congresswoman and a friend of Loma Linda University Health, passed away in Rancho Mirage, California, on Dec. 30, 2016. She was 92.

Born Shirley Neil McCumber in Mountain View, California, on July 12, 1924, to Harold Oliver and Dorothy Susan O'Neil McCumber, Shirley studied at Andrews University in Berrien Springs, Michigan, and at the University of California at Berkeley. After the death of her first husband, Dr. John McNulty, in World War II, she married Jerry L. Pettis, a World War II flight instructor. Jerry Pettis would go on to become a self–made millionaire and a professor of economics at Loma Linda University. They raised two children, Peter and Deborah. 

Shirley Pettis held numerous positions within the private and public sectors, and along with her husband, was a founder and manager of the Audio Digest Foundation, a nonprofit affiliate of the California Medical Association that placed abstracts of medical journals and lectures on audiocassette tapes.

In 1975, Shirley won a special election to fill the 33rd Congressional District’s vacancy caused by the death of her husband, Jerry L. Pettis, who had served as that district’s congressional representative from 1966 until his untimely death in a plane crash. She was reelected to Congress for a second term, ultimately representing her district from April 29, 1975–Jan. 3, 1979.

During her term in the House of Representatives, Pettis used her seat on Interior and Insular Affairs to advance legislation protecting desert lands in her district. She secured wilderness status for nearly half a million acres in the Joshua Tree National Monument, which limited vehicular access and prohibited development. One of the first projects Congresswoman Pettis took on was completing passage of the California Desert Protection Bill that her husband started. Her hard work paid off. The L.A. Times wrote, “It was the most monumental piece of land legislation in our era.” In 1994, Joshua Tree became a U.S. National Park.

Pettis also worked to have the California desert established as a conservation area. During her tenure in Congress, she took up her late husband's fight to win federal funding for a cleanup of the Salton Sea, a large lake in her congressional district that was home to migratory birds. She also helped to bring the first solar power plant in the nation to her district.

Shirley Pettis chose not to run for re-election at the end of her second term.  However, she continued her service as vice president, Women’s Research and Education Institute, Washington, DC, 1980–1981; member of the Arms Control and Disarmament Commission, 1981–1983; and the Commission on Presidential Scholars, 1990-1992. She was a member of the board of directors for Kemper National Insurance Companies, 1979–1997.

Her passion for service also led to her long-term involvement with Loma Linda University Health. Pettis served as a member of the Loma Linda University and Medical Center Boards of Trustees, and as a University Councilor. She was also the founding chair of the Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital Foundation Board and founding member of the Big Hearts for Little Hearts Desert Guild. Both organizations continue to play key roles in supporting the mission and expansion of the Children’s Hospital’s services.

The Shirley N. Pettis Award established by Children’s Hospital was named in her honor to acknowledge the contribution of individuals who model her outstanding dedication to children.

Pettis generously donated the Jerry L. Pettis Congressional papers and Shirley N. Pettis Congressional papers collections to Loma Linda University in 2007.

“Loma Linda has been a special place to Jerry and me, and I’m so honored that this great University will house the joint record of our congressional service,” she said. The collection was officially dedicated in November 2007. Former U.S. First Lady Barbara Bush, wife of President George H.W. Bush, attended and paid special tribute to Shirley Pettis during the event.

“The remarkable gift of the congressional papers and assorted memorabilia from the Honorable Jerry Pettis and Shirley Pettis will give our generation and future generations the privilege of remembering and marveling. For indeed these are ordinary people who lived extraordinary lives as they moved comfortably between our local community and its issues and the highest reaches of government,” said Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, now Loma Linda University Health president. “Their contributions on behalf of Loma Linda University and Children’s Hospital extend far beyond their roles and years in public service. Their legacy here is a strong thread in the fabric of our institutional history.”

Shirley Pettis received the Loma Linda University Health President’s Award in 2007, in recognition of her dedication to democracy and freedom, her walk on the world stage with dignity and wisdom, and her grace in maintaining a common touch and friendship; because of her devotion to children in this region and around the globe, and because of her extraordinary life of service. 

Shirley Pettis was predeceased in 2009 by husband Dr. Ben Roberson.  She is survived by husband Dr. LeRoy K. Thompson; children Peter Pettis, Fort Worth, Texas, and Deborah Moyer, Carlsbad, California; and grandchildren William Frei, Bainbridge Island, Washington; Peter Dwight Jerry Pettis, San Francisco, and Jeffrey David Pettis, Riverside, California. A private graveside service is scheduled for Jan. 14, in San Bernardino, California. 

A program honoring her legacy with Loma Linda University Health will be held on campus Sunday, Jan. 15, at 2 p.m. in Wong Kerlee International Conference Center, 11175 Campus Street.

]]>
Thu, 05 Jan 2017 13:05:59 -0800
4264:29037 <![CDATA[LLU welcomes new School of Pharmacy dean]]> Noreen H. Chan Tompkins, PharmD, will lead the School of Pharmacy at Loma Linda University as its new dean. Her tenure began Jan. 3, 2017. She is the third dean of the school, which welcomed its first students in 2002. 

President Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, welcomes her with the words, “I am delighted to have Dr. Chan Tompkins join our School of Pharmacy as dean. Her extensive background in both research and clinical services will be a welcome addition to the school. Additionally, Noreen grew up in Loma Linda, so is really coming home.” 

Before graduating from the University of Southern California School of Pharmacy, Chan Tompkins received her foundation through completing the pre-pharmacy curriculum at Loma Linda University, at what was then the Riverside campus. Upon earning her doctorate, she completed her residency training at Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania.

Chan Tompkins brings 23 years of training as a clinical pharmacist and researcher, extensive experience as a preceptor and clinical instructor, and a significant publishing record.

Provost Ron Carter, PhD, says, “This has been a year in the making, as we have been waiting for excellence — the ideal person to fill this role. Noreen’s credentials are perfect for our need, and we are excited to have her here.” 

Chan Tompkins is committed to leading an innovative curriculum revision to enhance LLU School of Pharmacy’s prominence in California, as well as strengthening the School of Pharmacy’s collaboration with Loma Linda University Medical Center.

]]>
Thu, 05 Jan 2017 10:42:24 -0800
4264:29045 <![CDATA[Notes from the President -- Wil's Legacy]]> Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   January 2017
Wil's Legacy

“Richard

Loma Linda University Health has always walked a different path, a “road less traveled,” jealously guarded and guided by generations of faculty. Perhaps from the outside it appears stable and constant, but from the inside it is constantly changing yet forever remaining the same!

As a faith-based institution committed to our long heritage of Christian health care, we continually redefine, update and defend how we do what we do for the next generation of patients and students. Through that journey over the past 112 years, it is clear we are impacted by forces within and without — giving advice, occasionally criticizing, always questioning, often applauding. It is a journey that will never end as society and health care continue to change, technologies improve and people respond in different ways.

It was into this milieu that a former sailor, commissioned to be a “medical missionary” by the faithful grandmother who raised him, joined our faculty over 40 years ago. Wil Alexander was already a seminary professor and seasoned preacher who had learned enough about the challenges of health care to know there was more to offer. But breaking into the often rigid academic culture of a medical school, even Loma Linda University, was not easy. It was only his gentle persistence, eventually aided by a sympathetic School of Medicine dean in Lyn Behrens, that finally turned the tide and started a momentous cultural change on our campus.

So what is Wil’s legacy? It cannot be overstated as we remember him following his death Nov. 16, 2016, at the age of 95. His life’s work can be crystalized in what we call “whole person care.”

What is this whole person care we so knowingly talk about today? It is much more than an academic course or a convenient handle. It is larger than one person, or even a group of followers, as numerous as they may be. “WilIt is bigger than any one denomination, spreading beyond even Christianity itself. It is an approach, an invasion actually, into the very core of the human experience, conducted at the most vulnerable periods of life, when one is sick and reserves are weakened. It must be done ever so delicately, always sensitive to when one should back off or when to probe more deeply.

Wil articulated and kept refining that approach, always searching for new ways, new questions, new students and faculty he could quietly mentor.

“To make man whole” became Loma Linda’s motto in 1956. But it took Wil to empower this by developing strategies that could gently peel off the “crust” that surrounds all of us and let patients’ true fears and feelings reluctantly come out. As he sat unassumingly at the bedside, he would search for the unspoken history in each individual, demonstrating to eager students and residents how to reach deep into the soul of each patient. One of his most notable questions — “What are you famous for?” — often brought out memories from the past.

Finding meaning, sharing faith and reassurances, and offering comfort from a fellow traveler came so naturally to Wil, including the power of prayer, a tool he used most effectively to bring peace and promise. All of us who had a chance to partner with him in this learning process were blessed.

As Wil’s efforts gradually slowed down over the past few years, we have had many chances to thank him and reaffirm our dedication to what he so ably championed. As we now follow in his footsteps, gently opening up each patient’s personal concerns, dreams and fears, we recognize the incredible opportunity that being health professionals gives us to relate with others in this way. It is a Loma Linda tradition at its best when we can identify with each patient, bringing understanding and acceptance into each life. Recognizing that judging is not our responsibility, but that our role on this earth is compassionate acceptance, honors both Wil and our Christian heritage.

It is this art form that Wil defined for our campus. It took years of trial and error, of rebuffs and openings, of hesitant learners and robust defenders. But it is now an established part of our culture, woven deeply into our motto “To make man whole.” It is a style, a strategy that has been replicated in the lives and practices of thousands of our alumni, now scattered literally around the world. They have refined, adapted and grown these concepts to suit their own personalities and needs. And they are applying them everywhere, in every culture and belief system. These concepts of wholeness are truly universal, applicable to all of us, believers in one God or none.

The quest that now rests on all of us is to maintain this incredibly valuable approach and strategy for wholeness. A documentary on Wil’s life and work has recently been completed, called “A Certain Kind of Light.” This will help continue the legacy.“Wil An important acronym developed by our Center for Spiritual Life and Wholeness, a Center originally established by Wil and now headed by Carla Gober-Park, is also very helpful. It is called the CLEAR Whole Person Care model, standing for Connect, Listen, Explore, Acknowledge and Respond. Learn more about the CLEAR Whole Person Care model or inquire about viewing the film by emailing wholeness@llu.edu.

Thank you, Wil, for reminding us of what we always intuitively knew, that if we care, God will heal. You have blessed us with your gentle ways and consistency of commitment to Loma Linda University Health. Now may your example live on in our lives, attitudes and practices.

Respectfully,

“Richard

 

 

 

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

 

Vision 2020: The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow

]]>
Thu, 05 Jan 2017 12:09:00 -0800
4264:28957 <![CDATA[Peter Baker named administrator at Murrieta]]> Kerry Heinrich, JD, executive vice president of hospital affairs, Loma Linda University Health, announced this week that Peter Baker, JD, MBA, has been appointed administrator of Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta. 

Baker takes on this role after serving since 2013 as vice president of business development for Loma Linda University Health and then as vice president of operations for Murrieta since July 2016. Additionally, Peter was associate vice president at Murrieta from 2010 to 2012. During that time, he was responsible for the development, licensure and operations for the hospital’s outpatient and ancillary services. 

“Throughout his career, Peter has been recognized for his expertise as a health care executive,” says Heinrich. “He brings strengths in business development, operations, strategic planning, marketing and physician relations to his new position at Murrieta. All who work with Peter know him to be an excellent communicator and an outstanding organizer. His knowledge and experience will be vital as we continue our mission of providing advanced, innovative healthcare to the Murrieta community.”

Previous to Loma Linda, Baker’s career included service in business development at White Memorial Medical Center and Glendale Adventist Medical Center. His educational background includes a law degree from Golden Gate University School of Law, an MBA from Golden Gate University School of Business and a bachelor's of business administration from Pacific Union College.

Peter has a strong commitment to furthering the mission and ministry of Loma Linda University Health, Heinrich notes.

]]>
Thu, 15 Dec 2016 13:42:53 -0800
4264:28959 <![CDATA[December Board of Trustees report ]]> Larry Becker Loma Linda University Health’s Board of Trustees met for two days on campus Dec. 12 and 13. A report on their actions follows.

Board chair concludes 15 years of leadership

Lowell Cooper, MDiv, MPH, chair of Loma Linda University Health’s Board of Trustees, retired from that post during the December meetings after 15 years of service. 

“Lowell Cooper has been our longest-serving board chair, and his leadership has been invaluable to this organization,” said Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, Loma Linda University Health president. “We have flourished under his guidance. We are truly indebted to him for his service to this institution.”

Milestones during Cooper’s tenure include: establishment of the Schools of Pharmacy, Behavioral Health and Religion, and the openings of the Surgical Hospital, Murrieta hospital, Highland Springs Medical Plaza, Tom and Vi Zapara Rehabilitation Pavilion, Behavioral Health Institute, Centennial Complex and San Bernardino campus.

Cooper received an honorary doctoral degree from Loma Linda University in 2011 and the organization’s Lifetime Service Award in 2016.

New board chair elected

Trustees elected Thomas Lemon, MDiv, as the new board chair. Lemon is a general vice president of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. During his more than 40 years of service to the Adventist Church, Lemon has been a pastor, departmental director and administrator for various levels of the organization. His ministry has always included a special focus on evangelism, education and health care. His most recent appointment prior to going to the General Conference was president of the Mid-America Union of Seventh-day Adventists. Lemon has been a member of the Loma Linda University Health board since 2010. 

New board advisor

John Freedman, president of the North Pacific Union of Seventh-day Adventists (Ridgefield, Washington), has been named an advisor to the Board of Trustees. Loma Linda University Health bylaws call for four North American Division union presidents to serve as board members during each quinquennium — the Pacific Union president and three others. The remaining five union presidents serve as advisors. Freedman was elected to his North Pacific Union post Sept. 25, 2016.

New administrative leadership in Murrieta

New leadership has been appointed for Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta. Peter Baker, JD, MBA, will be administrator at Murrieta. He has been vice president of operations in Murrieta since early 2016, and has served as vice president for business development at Loma Linda University Health since 2013. Alan Soderblom, MBA, will become vice president of finance and information services for Murrieta. Soderblom comes to Murrieta from Adventist Health, where he has been corporate vice president and CIO since 2007.

Loma Linda University Health – San Bernardino

Board members heard two reports from the San Bernardino campus.

Nancy Young, MHES, and Jason Lohr, MD, reported that SAC Health System (SACHS) is now the largest Teaching Health Center in the nation. SACHS also received Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) Level 3 designation in August. The U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration audited SACHS in September. While the average number of findings during a first visit is 36, SACHS had only 2 minor findings. SACHS offers more specialty services than any other Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) in the nation.

Arwyn Wild, MA, executive director of San Manuel Gateway College, reports the first quarter of college-level classes is completing this month. Programs offered include medical assisting and community health workers/promotores. As many as 13 programs have been proposed for development at the San Bernardino campus.

Research affairs update
Loma Linda University ranks in the top half (169/500) of institutions receiving funds from the National Institutes of Health, according to David Williams, PhD, and Tony Zuccarelli, PhD. The Grants for Research And School Partnerships (GRASP) program launched in 2010 to encourage partnerships, incentivize research among faculty and share research expertise. Each grant requires two co-investigators from different schools, one of whom must have previously had less than $100,000 in research funds. The GRASP program has made 26 awards for research between 2010 and 2016. Finally, the board learned that there will be approximately 30 new invention disclosures by the end of the year derived from research here.

New focus for community partnerships

Juan Carlos Belliard, PhD, MPH, assistant vice president for community partnerships and diversity, introduced a new focus on workforce development and education for the Institute for Community Partnerships. While the Institute will continue to address specific community health issues such as diabetes, asthma, heart disease and others, Belliard told board members that the strategic move to focus on the social and economic factors affecting health will significantly enhance the center’s impact and benefit to the community.

New research institute approved

Board members approved the establishment of the Institute for Genetics and Translational Genomics. This new entity will make Loma Linda University Health a leader in the effort to understand human health at the molecular level. The Institute’s main goals include:

  • Becoming a major research partner with entities across the university
  • Spearheading the development in a new master’s degree program in genetic counseling
  • Organizing clinical genetics and genomics programs across the campus to bring synergy to clinical resources offered in different specialties.

Penelope Duerksen-Hughes, PhD, will be the Institute’s founding director.

Change at Institute for Health Policy and Leadership

Wonha Kim, MD, MPH, has been appointed director of the Institute for Health Policy and Leadership, effective Jan. 1, 2017. Kim joined Loma Linda University Health in 2013 as an assistant professor of pediatrics in the School of Medicine. She has also been the Institute’s associate director since 2015. Kim assumes the director’s role following the retirement of Gerald Winslow, PhD, who will remain affiliated with the Institute with the title of founding director.

Spiritual Plan

Randy Roberts, DMin, vice president for spiritual life and mission, presented an update on a number of initiatives that are part of the organization’s Spiritual Plan. The plan emphasizes that Loma Linda University Health is a firmly committed Christian organization. At the same time there is a strong historic connection between the Seventh-day Adventist Church and the institution.

 

]]>
Thu, 15 Dec 2016 13:45:43 -0800
4264:28933 <![CDATA[Two-week Drayson Center closure]]> Students and employees will enjoy a majorly renovated fitness facility when the Drayson Center opens Jan. 3 after a two-week full closure. Members may wish to exercise elsewhere while the work takes place from Dec. 19 through Jan. 2.

More than 30 improvement projects will proceed during the closure to make the Drayson Center an even better experience in the new year.

These projects include:

• Installing new floors in the weight room
• Refinishing hardwood floors
• Adding more security cameras
• Bringing in new fitness equipment
• Updating the pool deck
• Improving drains, pipes and heating
• … and more.

“For the first time ever, the Drayson Center is completely closing for the holiday season,” says Director Donald Sease. “This will allow us to upgrade our 20-plus year old building. We’re looking forward to having a revitalized building in many ways, including repairing things that are not seen. 

“2017 should be an excellent year for Drayson Center members,” he concludes.

Ahead of the complete shutdown, some portions of the facility have been closed for usage as of Dec. 12, including the weight room, cardio room, and studios A and B.

]]>
Thu, 15 Dec 2016 10:48:46 -0800
4264:28935 <![CDATA[Stories of Jesus: schedule released for winter chapels]]> Heather Reifsnyder The Loma Linda University chaplains extend an invitation for members of Loma Linda University Health to attend the chapel sessions held Wednesdays during winter quarter.

“We will look at Jesus through the eyes of a variety of individuals,” says Terry Swenson, DMin, chaplain. “From these stories, we will learn how God’s desire to be connected with humanity supersedes betrayal, denial and doubt.”

The schedule and speaker lineup is as follows. All services take place from 11 to 11:50 a.m. at Loma Linda University Church.

Jan. 4 – Lydia Elle
Jan. 9-13 (Week of Renewal) – Randy Roberts
Jan. 18 – Dilys Brooks
Jan. 25 –Tim Gillespie
Feb. 1 – Janice DeWhyte
Feb. 8 – Delroy Brooks
Feb. 15 – Iki Taimi
Feb. 22 – Carla Gober-Park
March 1 – Kiera Bullock
March 8 – Terry Swenson

Swenson says, “Stories remind us where we come from, to whom we belong and who we are. The story of the Bible is a compelling narrative of a true God who loves His children, established a way of salvation and provided a route to eternity. The narrative uncovers the God of grace, who speaks, listens, acts, loves and sacrifices His only Son, Jesus, to connect us back to Him.”

For more information, email campusministries@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 15 Dec 2016 10:51:59 -0800
4264:28937 <![CDATA[A lift of the spirit all year long]]> Heather Reifsnyder Each Tuesday in their email, employees of Loma Linda University Health receive a “Spirit Lifter” message with a quote, photo and Bible verse meant to inspire and encourage. This is one way Loma Linda infuses spiritual support into campus life.

In 2017, this lift of the spirit can be experienced every day. A “Spirit Lifter” daily desk calendar is available for purchase at the gift shop in the lobby of Loma Linda University Medical Center for $5 (the cost to produce). 

The messages provide a welcome boost. “I receive regular feedback from employees who are grateful for the weekly encouragement,” says Kathy McMillan, MA, director of employee spiritual care, the department that produced the calendar.

The calendar begins the new year with the following saying and Bible verse Jan. 1.

Be always at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors, and let each new year find you a better person. –Benjamin Franklin

But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do. –1 Peter 1:15

For similar wisdom daily, get the calendar, and may 2017 be a year of blessings for all at Loma Linda University Health and in the community. 

]]>
Thu, 15 Dec 2016 10:53:59 -0800
4264:28939 <![CDATA[Winning photographers announced]]> To lift hearts, Loma Linda University Health creates a set of prayer notes each year that can be given to patients or coworkers.

Similar to a postcard, each note has an image of nature on one side and a Bible verse on the other, along with the words “I prayed for you today and asked God to bless you.”

“The cards are designed to bring hope, comfort and courage to those who are going through a difficult time," says Kathy McMillan, MA, director of employee spiritual care, Loma Linda University Medical Center.

It is tradition to select photos for the cards via a contest for employees and students of Loma Linda University Health.

For the 2016 contest, 78 photographers submitted 461 images. Congratulations to the winners:

  • First place – Linda McCann
  • Second place – Fernando Ortega
  • Third place – Adam Jackson

Honorable mentions were given, in alphabetical order, to D.J. Clemons (three photos), Elisa Cook, Carlene Drake, Adam Jackson, Carol Jones, Henry Manurung, Paul Medema, Belma Moran and Stephen Vasta. 

The winning pictures, as well as photos from the past seven years, may be viewed from a campus computer on the One Portal.

]]>
Thu, 15 Dec 2016 10:56:18 -0800
4264:28943 <![CDATA[Farnoosh Zough's vision: respect, equality and opportunity]]> Heather Reifsnyder and Larry Becker “Bright, talented individuals from different backgrounds can be a foundation for our success. It is absolutely critical for these individuals to understand that Loma Linda University Health will treat them with respect, equality and opportunity.” –Farnoosh Zough, PharmD, assistant professor, Loma Linda University School of Pharmacy.

Zough is a member of Loma Linda University Health’s Diversity Council, which plays a key role in helping understand our similarities and differences. The 22 members of this council are anxious to discover both best practices and areas of concern across campus and have offered to meet with anyone who has ideas or comments to share. 

News of the Week is running a series introducing Diversity Council members. Learn more about Zough’s vision for diversity at Loma Linda University Health.

As a faith-based institution, Loma Linda University Health is committed to the fundamental principle that every person is created of equal value in God’s sight. Learn more about the Diversity Council in the words of President Richard Hart, MD, DrPH.

]]>
Thu, 15 Dec 2016 10:59:29 -0800
4264:28945 <![CDATA[Grand Hallway makes a grand entrance]]> James Ponder People often make grand entrances in hallways, but hallways rarely get to be the main attraction.

That’s what happened, however, Dec. 6 when a group of friends, officials and staff members of Loma Linda University Health gathered to cut the ribbon to open the Grand Hallway at Loma Linda University Medical Center, symbolizing a great step forward in campus transformation.

The hallway, located on the first floor between the Medical Center and Children’s Hospital, serves as the entry point into the facility from parking lot 3, the recently opened patient and visitor structure at the corner of Barton Road and Campus Street. 

At various points along the route, positive quotations accentuate the healing décor, reminding visitors of the vital role spirituality plays in health and wholeness.

During the brief ceremony, Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health, told the crowd that the hallway is significant because it is the first of many construction projects to be completed as part of Vision 2020: The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow, the campus transformation campaign that will include two new hospital towers — one each for the Medical Center and Children’s Hospital.

When the towers open in 2020, the Grand Hallway will lead directly into the joint lobby of the two facilities. Hart thanked donors for supporting the campus transformation.

After Hart’s remarks, Jere Chrispens, MA, co-chair of the Vision 2020 campaign steering committee; Trevor Wright, MHA, chief operating officer of LLU Medical Center; and Kerry Heinrich, chief executive officer, spoke briefly about the milestone significance of the Grand Hallway.

Attendees cheered as Wright, Chrispens and Heinrich joined Loma Linda University Health officials James Pappas, MD; Angela Lalas, MBA; Rachelle Bussell, CFRE; and Scott Perryman, MBA, in holding the ribbon while Hart cut it with an oversized pair of ceremonial scissors. Once the ribbon fell to the ground, the new hallway was officially declared open. 

At the conclusion of the event, Randy Possinger, assistant vice president for philanthropy, invited attendees to join one of two groups for a visual inspection of the construction site for the new hospital towers. One group took the elevator to the second floor to observe the site from an observation deck while the other followed Possinger and Hart into the construction yard to get much closer to the enormous excavated pit that will anchor the foundation and basement of the new facilities.

For more pictures of the Grand Hallway, visit the story at news.llu.edu and scroll down to the photo gallery.

]]>
Thu, 15 Dec 2016 11:02:36 -0800
4264:28947 <![CDATA[Love in action: tangible service]]> Terry Swenson Below is a devotional from a series in News of the Week exploring scriptures that talk about what the Loma Linda chaplains call “one-anothering.”

***

“If I then, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another’s feet.” –John 13:14

I was a 5-year-old mischievous boy. We were at church and the congregation was preparing to partake of the Lord’s supper — communion. The Seventh-day Adventist Church, which owns Loma Linda University Health, participates in the Ordinance of Loving Service, which is following Jesus’ example at the last supper when He washed His followers’ feet.

At a certain point in the worship service, the adults were dismissed to various locations to perform the foot washing and then return together for communion. 

At this point in my life, I never knew where they went. While they were gone, some of my friends and I decided we were going to find out what the mystery was all about. We warily followed where the men had gone. We could hear them singing hymns inside. We cracked opened the door and were stunned by what we saw. The dignified adults had their coats off and their shirtsleeves rolled up and were washing one another’s feet — what a weird thing to do! Even in our little minds, we wondered, “Who ever does that?”

I think I am safe in saying that many adults still wonder the same thing. Yet, when we read this passage of scripture in John, we discover that Jesus did this to exemplify what love meant to Him. When He had finished washing all of their feet, He told His followers — and that includes us — that they ought to do the same thing to one another. Now, I am not suggesting that we go to each workstation or classroom throughout Loma Linda University Health with a basin of water and wash feet. But I am curious how this aspect of “one-anothering” would play out in our context.

In Jesus’ day, a servant did the washing of feet for any guest at a house. It was hardly a much sought-after career. It took humility for Jesus, the disciples’ leader, to do what He did. That’s the first key that we need. The second key lies in the context of Jesus’ action. He loved His followers and wanted to tangibly demonstrate how you live out that kind of love. Love is the motivation to live humbly. Love impels us to care for the needs of others. Love drives out motives of pride, self-importance and self-service.

Maybe, just maybe, the men of the church of my youth weren’t so weird. Maybe Jesus washing His followers’ feet was an action of sheer brilliance, because through it true love shines all the way into our lives. Here at Loma Linda University Health, we proclaim that we have “Many Strengths and One Mission.” We could expound upon that statement: “Through Love We Have Many Strengths and One Mission.”

Love changes everything.

Terry Swenson, DMin
Chaplain
Loma Linda University

]]>
Thu, 15 Dec 2016 11:05:48 -0800
4264:28949 <![CDATA['Tis the season to be jolly -- with extra days off]]> Heather Reifsnyder Warm wishes for a joyous holiday season from the News of the Week staff. Our next issue will be published Jan. 5. ]]> More time for merry-making awaits many employees of Loma Linda University Health. The weekends of Christmas and New Year’s will both be stretched into four days — Friday through Monday — creating extra time for family, friends and fun. This is in keeping with the trend in recent years in which many employees request additional days off during this season, as well as to save the organization costs.

This schedule applies to employees of administrative and support departments for Loma Linda University, LLU Medical Center, LLU Children’s Hospital, LLU Behavioral Medicine Center, LLU Shared Services and LLU Medical Center – Murrieta.

The schedule is as follows for administrative and support departments.

• Friday, Dec. 23, and Monday, Dec. 26, are holidays.

• Friday, Dec. 30, and Monday, Jan. 2, are holidays.

All clinical departments and student support departments will retain their normal holiday schedules and staffing.  

Due to the holiday schedule, the payroll department will not process any off-cycle checks Dec. 20, 23, 26, 27, 30 and Jan. 2-3.

Additionally, employees needing flu immunizations or PPD tests should log on to a campus computer and view the reduced schedule for employee health services at Loma Linda University Medical Center.

If you have questions about how this schedule will impact you or your department, please ask your supervisor.

And now a note from the office of public relations, which produces News of the Week: Our next issue will be published Thursday, Jan. 5. For more stories in the meantime, visit news.llu.edu.

Until the new year, our staff wishes all employees, volunteers and students a holiday season to be enjoyed in safety, comfort and knowledge of the reason for the season: Immanuel, “God with us.” (Isaiah 7:14, Matthew 1:18-25)

]]>
Thu, 15 Dec 2016 11:15:43 -0800
4264:28883 <![CDATA[Surgical Hospital earns coveted award]]> Of the approximately 400 academic hospitals in the nation, Loma Linda University Surgical Hospital is one of 29 named a Top Teaching Hospital by The Leapfrog Group.

On Dec. 5, Leapfrog revealed its 2016 Top Hospitals lists, recognizing facilities that meet the group’s patient safety, care quality and efficiency standards. This year 115 hospitals were named Top Hospitals. 

“This is a recognition of the world-class patient care Surgical Hospital provides, and we are grateful for the recognition,” says Kerry Heinrich, CEO, Loma Linda University Medical Center.

Lyndon Edwards, MBA, MHS, senior vice president of adult hospital services, and Marie Hodgkins, MBA, executive director, supplemental staffing network, accepted the award from Leapfrog executives Dec. 6 in Washington, DC. 

“I think it is a testament to the teamwork that has always existed at the Surgical Hospital between our physicians, nurses and all of our clinicians,” says Edwards. “They are so focused on doing the best job for every patient who comes through the door. This is a symbol of that great work.”

Hodgkins says, “This award is a validation of the hard work that the patient care team has done at Surgical Hospital. When Loma Linda purchased it in 2008, one of the goals was to set the bar for excellence in patient care, and this is a validation that our health care team has done that.” 

The designation of Top Hospital is based on the results of the 2016 Leapfrog Hospital Survey. Performance across many areas of hospital care is considered in establishing the qualifications for the award, including infection rates and a hospital’s ability to prevent medication errors.

This outstanding achievement was the result of extraordinary teamwork. LLU Surgical Hospital provides more than 20,000 outpatient visits each year.

This recognition showcases LLU Surgical Hospital’s commitment to patient safety and quality, as Leapfrog Top Hospital Awards are widely acknowledged as one of the most prestigious distinctions a hospital can receive.

“Being acknowledged as a Top Hospital is an incredible feat achieved by less than 3 percent of hospitals nationwide,” says Leah Binder, president and CEO of The Leapfrog Group. “With this honor, Loma Linda University Surgical Hospital has established its commitment to safer and higher quality care. Providing this level of care to patients in Loma Linda requires motivation and drive from every team member. I congratulate the board, staff and clinicians whose efforts made this honor possible.”

]]>
Thu, 08 Dec 2016 14:45:15 -0800
4264:28857 <![CDATA[Volunteer and give children a joyful Christmas ]]> Macy Westbrook and Nancy Yuen What makes this holiday season special — is it warm apple crisp, the Santa Ana winds or time spent with loved ones?

Each year, the Christmas season has a special way of bringing people together while at the same time reminding us to search for the ultimate gift, Jesus Christ.

This weekend volunteers are needed to bring joy to local children at a Community-Academic Partners in Service (CAPS) outreach event.

Many Loma Linda University alumni remember volunteering for the annual Christmas Fiesta and seeing the excitement of hundreds of children from the community celebrating the story of Jesus’ birth.

When SAC Health System started the event in the early 1970s, Christmas Fiesta was called the Christmas Carnival. Later, in 1998, when Students for International Mission Service led the event, it was called the Adopt-A-Kid Christmas Party.

Volunteers are needed for this year’s Christmas Fiesta, which will be held Saturday, Dec. 10, from 1:30 to 4 p.m. at the SAC Norton Clinic in San Bernardino.

When the event begins, each volunteer will be assigned a child. They will then visit various stations and will participate in activities specially planned for the kids.

The highlight of Christmas Fiesta is a play of the baby Jesus story. Before leaving, each child will receive a gift.

Come see for yourself the wonder of making a lasting impact while reaching out to those in the community. Sign up online by visiting caps.llu.edu and clicking “Volunteer now.”

]]>
Wed, 07 Dec 2016 16:33:28 -0800
4264:28863 <![CDATA[The power of song]]> Kathy McMillan “Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord.” –Ephesians 5:19

A recent viral video shows a toddler fussing in her car seat when suddenly her favorite song comes on the radio. Immediately transformed, she begins smiling and moving to the beat of the music. Her parents had discovered an amazing tool for soothing her!

Can you relate? When you are going through a difficult time, is there a piece of music that helps? Maybe you have a playlist that specifically speaks to you in those times that are painful or stressful. 

Music has the ability to bring calm to many situations. In the Bible, King Saul would ask David to come play the harp for him when he was heavy from the weight of kingly responsibilities. There was something about the music that brought relief and maybe helped provide space to find perspective.

Paul, when writing to the church in Ephesus, covered many areas of life. In chapters four and five, he presented a long list of instructions on how to live in a godly way. In the middle of his list, he suggests that we should use psalms and hymns when we talk with each other. He understood that words of scripture can offer hope in the darkest times. He knew the power of lyrics and melody to bring encouragement or help give focus.

Here at Loma Linda University Health, we have chosen to illustrate our mission through a simple melody with words that speak to the heart. The song is called “Healing Love,” by Wintley Phipps and John Stoddart.           

As we continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ, let us remember the song’s lyrics:

We live each day to reach a world that’s hurting,
To help some wandering soul to find their way.
We bring them peace with words of blessed assurance,
And with God’s love, we wipe the tears away. 

We are His hands to touch a world that’s broken.
We are His voice to cheer the wounded soul.
Shining the light of love that lives in Jesus,
We are His comfort, His healing love. 

We’re going to a place where pain and sadness
Will never plunge a soul into despair.
We give our service knowing Christ has promised
We live forever always in His Care.                       

We are His hands to touch a world that’s broken.
We are His voice to cheer the wounded soul.
Shining the light of love that lives in Jesus,
We are His comfort, His healing love. 

Shining the light that lives in Jesus,
We are His comfort, His healing love.
We are His comfort, to make man whole. 

 

Sincerely,
Kathy McMillan, MA
Director, employee spiritual care
Loma Linda University Medical Center

]]>
Thu, 08 Dec 2016 10:12:59 -0800
4264:28865 <![CDATA[Coping with profound loss during the holidays]]> Joy and celebration are meant to be felt during the holiday season, but it can also be a time of loss and sadness.

This could be due to losing a job, losing a home or ending a relationship. When the loss is the death of someone close to us, someone we care deeply about, such as a family member, friend, neighbor, colleague or pet, it triggers a grieving process that affects one’s way of living.

For those grieving such a loss, the holiday season is often difficult. If someone you know is dealing with the death of a loved one, it is hard to know what to say or do. You may be afraid of intruding, saying the wrong thing or making the person feel even worse.   

The Living Whole Wellness Program at Loma Linda University Health addressed the topic of grief during the holidays in a recent WellnessLIVE presentation by Kathy McMillan, MA, RN, director of employee spiritual care at Loma Linda University Medical Center. To view it, visit livingwhole.llu.edu/wellnesslive.

You are invited to watch and share this video with someone who is feeling loss this holiday season.

]]>
Thu, 08 Dec 2016 10:19:55 -0800
4264:28860 <![CDATA[Dan Giang's vision for diversity]]> Heather Reifsnyder and Larry Becker "Working or learning among people who do not look like me, think like me or believe like me reminds me I am not God's only child."

These are the words of Dan Giang, MD, vice president for graduate medical education and a member of the Diversity Council at Loma Linda University Health.

Loma Linda University Health’s Diversity Council plays a key role in helping understand our similarities and differences. The 22 members of this council are anxious to discover both best practices and areas of concern across campus and have offered to meet with anyone who has ideas or comments to share.

News of the Week is running a series introducing Diversity Council members. Learn more about Giang's vision for diversity at Loma Linda University Health.

As a faith-based institution, Loma Linda University Health is committed to the fundamental principle that every person is created of equal value in God’s sight. 

]]>
Thu, 08 Dec 2016 09:59:24 -0800
4264:28869 <![CDATA[Living Whole honorees lead the way]]> Heather Reifsnyder Exemplars of devotion to wellness at Loma Linda University Health are recognized annually by the Living Whole Wellness Program’s Honors Award. In 2016, more than 30 employees were nominated by their peers or supervisors for this award.

Criteria include showing commitment to living and promoting a healthy lifestyle and striving to build a culture of wellness at Loma Linda University Health.

“We have amazing employees whose lives exhibit and personify what it means to be ‘Living Whole,’” says program director Olivia Moses, DrPH. 

“This year some of our honorees have started walking groups, lost up to 100 pounds and completed their first marathon,” she notes. “In addition, many of our honorees have been inspirations to their peers and have motivated change all around them.”

The 2016 honorees are:

• Kristina Abarca
• Martha Alvarez
• Nicole Beeks
• Maria Bradbury
• Ruth Cervantez
• Katie Cooney
• Padmini Davamony
• Brenda Davis
• Liliana Estrada
• Kelly Flood
• Dana Gonzalez
• Kathie Ingram
• Tina Jimenez
• Neal Johnson
• Lindsay Kerichenko
• Melati Khoe
• Jill Landless
• Monica McKenzie
• Ernest Medina
• Enrique Molina
• Myrna Montes
• Paulo Pereira
• James Rippetoe
• Anees Razzouk
• Ricardo Santiago
• Erin Seheult
• Rochelle Sobredo
• Terry Swenson
• Cynthia Terukina
• Terri Thompson
• Glynda York

Stay tuned for the 2017 announcement of the nomination period for next year’s Living Whole Honors Awards.

]]>
Thu, 08 Dec 2016 10:36:23 -0800
4264:28867 <![CDATA['Life on the Line' season 3 debuts next week]]> Briana Pastorino Loma Linda University Health’s national documentary television series, “Life on the Line,” featuring stories of hope and courage from the Inland Empire, will begin airing its third season locally Wednesday, Dec. 14 at 7 p.m. on KVCR. 

Narrated by celebrity journalist Lisa Ling, “Life on the Line” season three features five half-hour episodes including stories from Loma Linda University Health. The first episode, “San Bernardino Strong,” highlights the story of Julie Swann-Paez, a survivor of the terrorist attack on Dec. 2, 2015, at Inland Regional Center in San Bernardino.

“I never thought this is where I would be this year,” Swann-Paez says, “going to doctors appointments, dealing with gunshot wounds caused by terrorists.”

In the midst of this tragedy, hope lives on. It can be seen in the eyes of Swann-Paez, who is set on sharing her hope with others. It can be witnessed in the heroic efforts of first responders helping those injured, and it is felt in a bond the community formed like never before.

Additional episodes of “Life on the Line” season three will follow the lives of Ebola warriors, Paralympic hopefuls and a cancer patient exploring every life-saving option available.

“It is a privilege to share positive stories of heroic courage, diversity, dedication and innovation in this new season,” says Patricia Kelikani, producer of “Life on the Line.” “With these stories, we hope to inspire viewers across the nation to celebrate the good in people and their resilience.”

For the full schedule in local and national markets, episode previews and more information about the show, visit lifeontheline.tv.

The show’s first and second seasons aired on more than 300 public television stations in over 130 markets in the United States.

]]>
Thu, 08 Dec 2016 10:22:07 -0800
4264:28881 <![CDATA[Notes from the President -- Passing the gavel]]> Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   December 2016
Passing the gavel: Our Board chair retires

“Richard

As this country seeks understanding and meaning after a fractious political campaign, marking a change in national leadership, Loma Linda University Health is facing another kind of change. Ours is not the loud, repetitive rhetoric of national politics, but a quiet changing of the guard in a way the world will hardly notice. We want it that way, and are justifiably proud of the stability this portends.

Lowell Cooper has retired and will step down as our Board of Trustees chair at our regular board meeting on Dec. 13, passing the gavel to Tom Lemon. Lowell has served Loma Linda for 15 years in this role, providing structured process with quiet dignity and principle. Our leadership team, and certainly I, personally, have learned to depend on his ability to listen to complex issues, ask penetrating questions and guide us into appropriate decisions.

“Lowell

The fine line between governance and management is always a delicate balance, but with enormous consequences. Some boards, and by implication the trustees that make them up, become too directive, even invasive, hobbling management from making the best decisions for a campus or organization. Other boards are too far on the other side, leaving the direction of an institution to powerful leaders with their own whims and desires. To balance that give and take, constantly impacted by each new crisis or personnel change, requires a principled approach with a mature ego and a solid commitment. Lowell has provided that steady guidance for Loma Linda University Health.

These have not been quiet or easy years. We have celebrated our 100th birthday, opened and/or reorganized new schools, faced major challenges in the health care world, rearranged our corporate structure into One Loma Linda and put forward a vision for the future. We have been named a “Blue Zone” of longevity by National Geographic, managed a hospital in Afghanistan, helped develop Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital in China and expanded our involvement with the global church through Adventist Health International. We have built new buildings, notably the Centennial Complex, Highland Springs Medical Plaza, Zapara Rehabilitation Pavilion, Murrieta hospital and the San Bernardino campus. We have launched an audacious fundraising “Cooper campaign called Vision 2020, and started construction of a hospital designed for the next century. We have seen leaders at various levels come and go in the institution, always searching for the best talent, wisdom and commitment to keep Loma Linda on target “to make man whole” by “continuing the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ.”

Through all of this, Lowell has helped interpret political winds and provided us with the best practice model of governance. He has shown that bylaws matter, worthy of enormous attention at periodic times of change. To be truly effective, bureaucracies must be living, breathing entities, capable of responding to pain and pressure, while also being creative and forward leaning. He has given us the respect and space to do just that, shielding us from outside pressure. He has championed our causes and defended our decisions, sharing in both the triumphs and disappointments.

“Cooper

So Lowell, you will truly be missed. You have left behind an academic health sciences complex that has maintained its focus on mission and continues to provide the world with graduates of the highest caliber and commitment to service. Your humble demeanor and commitment to principle have left a generation of us at Loma Linda in your debt as we continue to build on this legacy. Your approach has been replicated on other boards, both here and abroad.

We have every confidence that Tom Lemon can step into those shoes and continue our trajectory. The time he has already served on our board has shown similar characteristics that give us peace as we look to the future. We will have the opportunity to introduce him more to our constituents in the months and years ahead.

And now, Lowell, may you and Rae have some time together in the same time zone!

Cordially yours,

“Richard

 

 

 

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health 

PS: As many of you may have heard, Dr. Wil Alexander, a pioneer of whole person care at Loma Linda University Health, passed away in November. His impact on this campus and to patients cannot be overstated. My January newsletter will focus on his legacy.

Vision 2020: The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow 

]]>
Thu, 08 Dec 2016 12:20:09 -0800
4264:28796 <![CDATA[Low-cost therapy offered for speech, voice and swallowing disorders]]> Heather Reifsnyder The department of communication sciences and disorders at Loma Linda University School of Allied Health Professions is offering low-cost therapy sessions for individuals with voice and swallowing disorders or speech-language needs.

Each session costs $20 (no insurance needed), and the therapy is provided by graduate students under the supervision of certified/licensed clinicians. 

Speech-language therapy

Speech and language therapy for adults is available weekly on Tuesdays between 4 and 7 p.m. Sessions are 45 minutes long. For more information, contact Jennifer St. Clair at jstclair@llu.edu or 909-558-4998 ext. 42074.

Voice and swallowing therapy

This treatment is available weekly on Mondays for patients diagnosed with muscle tension dysphonia, phonotrauma, functional voice disorders, dysphagia and other conditions. Voice patients must have been seen by an ear, nose and throat specialist within the last six months and have their evaluation report. For more information, contact Christina Nobriga at cnobriga@llu.edu or 909-558-4627.

]]>
Thu, 01 Dec 2016 14:10:53 -0800
4264:28803 <![CDATA[Santa(s) will run wild Sunday, Dec. 11]]> Briana Pastorino Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital Foundation and Loma Linda University Health PossAbilities are hosting the second annual Santa Fun Run on Sunday, Dec. 11.

The event will kick off at 8 a.m. at the Professional Plaza, located at 25455 Barton Rd. On-site registration will begin at 6:30 a.m.

’Tis the season to run, walk or roll in this jolly 5K race to create a healthier tomorrow for our community’s kids. All proceeds will go to LLU Children’s Hospital and PossAbilities.

Registration is now open and all are encouraged to sign up today.

Luke the Lion, the Children’s Hospital fluffy mascot, will join in the fun, as well as special guest Joshua Miller, 8, a PossAbilities member. The Lioness singers will present the national anthem.

The $35 registration fee includes a complimentary Santa suit (one size fits all).

Volunteers are also needed for the event. Those interested can contact Naomi Moreno at NAMoreno@llu.edu to sign up.

]]>
Thu, 01 Dec 2016 14:18:12 -0800
4264:28794 <![CDATA[Meet Diversity Council member Edelweiss Ramal]]> Heather Reifsnyder and Larry Becker “I feel it is part of my mission within my role of educator to appreciate and enjoy diversity and to facilitate the appreciation and enjoyment of diversity in students, colleagues and all those around me.”

These are the words of Edelweiss Ramal, PhD, associate professor in the School of Nursing and a member of the Diversity Council at Loma Linda University Health.

Loma Linda University Health’s Diversity Council plays a key role in helping understand our similarities and differences. The 22 members of this council are anxious to discover both best practices and areas of concern across campus and have offered to meet with anyone who has ideas or comments to share.

News of the Week is running a series introducing Diversity Council members. Learn more about Ramal’s vision for diversity at Loma Linda University Health.

As a faith-based institution, Loma Linda University Health is committed to the fundamental principle that every person is created of equal value in God’s sight. 

]]>
Thu, 01 Dec 2016 14:08:53 -0800
4264:28798 <![CDATA[Help us find a perfect match]]> Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Health hires only the best — those with the skills and values to carry out the organization’s mission to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ.

The department of human resource management has started an employee referral program through which current employees who help find qualified candidates for certain positions may receive a cash bonus of up to $5,000. 

Learn more. 

]]>
Thu, 01 Dec 2016 14:12:43 -0800
4264:28800 <![CDATA[New process for legislative leave requests]]> Heather Reifsnyder It is stressful to take a leave of absence from work, whether for short-term disability, military duty or any other legislatively protected reason. Loma Linda University Health is debuting a new online portal for managing such leaves that will better serve both employees and the organization. 

The MyLeave portal goes live Dec. 1 and is powered by software system Qcera, replacing the previous absence management system.

“MyLeave will improve efficiency, compliance and enhance communication in the management of employee leaves and accommodations,” says Lizette Norton, assistant vice president of human resource management at Loma Linda University Health.

She adds, “This new tool will also provide both employees and managers with real-time access to leave information via an intuitive web portal.” 

Leave types that will be managed through the portal include Family Medical Leave Act/California Family Rights Act, pregnancy disability, military duty and personal leave of absence.

MyLeave features:

• Employee self-service, including real-time leave status
• Electronic data upload of certification and return-to-work documentation
• Eligibility determination within two days (excluding weekends and holidays)
• Enhanced communication with employees and managers
• Compliance with all applicable state and federal laws

Additionally, face-to-face assistance will remain available from human resource management.

To learn more, visit People Portal, log in, and scroll down to “Leave Management” in the center column. For additional customer service, call human resource management at 909-651-4001.

]]>
Thu, 01 Dec 2016 14:15:10 -0800
4264:28801 <![CDATA[Influenza shot declination form now available]]> Heather Reifsnyder In keeping with putting patient safety first, the influenza immunization policy has been updated for health care employees of Loma Linda University Medical Center, Children’s Hospital, Behavioral Medicine Center and Murrieta campus. Learn the details in this Q&A published Nov. 17 in News of the Week.

Health care employees must receive the vaccination or fill out a declination form by Dec. 31. The form is available on PeoplePortal.

For more information: Why is the influenza vaccine policy changing? Is it Loma Linda?

]]>
Thu, 01 Dec 2016 14:16:25 -0800
4264:28663 <![CDATA[Exhibit to display Navajo art and photos of alumnus's work with Navajo Nation]]> Susan Onuma In celebration of Native American History Month, the office of diversity at Loma Linda University School of Medicine invites you to a photography and art exhibit Tuesday, Nov. 22.

Titled “Dr. Vincent Gardner, Medicine & Mission: Years with the Navajo Nation,” the exhibit will run from noon to 5:00 p.m. on the 22nd at Wong Kerlee International Conference Center.

This exhibit represents a unique insight into the daily life of a committed physician who dedicated his ministry of healing to the less fortunate. 

On display will be photographs documenting time spent by alumnus Vincent Gardner, MD, class of 1944, serving the Navajo Nation. They were taken by famous photographer Phillip Harrington of LOOK magazine in 1956. Several of the photos on display were featured in the Sept. 4, 1956, issue of LOOK.  

The exhibit will also display original artwork from the Navajo Nation, including hand-woven Navajo rugs, sand pictures, pottery and handcrafted wood art.

Gardner, Marvin Walter and their wives served as missionaries, jointly establishing the Monument Valley Clinic in Utah for Navajo Indians. The photographs and artwork are on loan from Gardner’s son, Robert Gardner, PhD, and his son’s wife, Susan Gardner, PhD.

The School of Medicine invites the Loma Linda University Health family and community members at large to attend the exhibit.

]]>
Thu, 17 Nov 2016 15:05:46 -0800
4264:28665 <![CDATA[Discount offered for Holiday Classic]]> Heather Reifsnyder It pays to be an employee or student of Loma Linda University Health. The Living Whole Wellness Program encourages you to have fun and be active this holiday season.

Loma Linda University Health is offering a $20 subsidy for those who participate in the 27th annual Holiday Classic 5K and half marathon. The race takes place in Loma Linda on Sunday, Dec. 4, and will include an “elves trot” quarter-mile option for children ages 3 through 6.

“During the holidays it can be challenging to take care of your health. This is the reason we are offering a discount for the Loma Linda Lopers Holiday Classic,” says Olivia Moses, DrPH, director of the Living Whole Wellness Program. 

She continues, “We want to encourage our employees and students to do something fun and active with their colleagues. So get a group together and sign up, because physical activity is one of the many ways we can be ‘Living Whole’ together!”

Register at the Loma Linda Lopers club website. For more information about the race, visit lopersclub.org/hc.

]]>
Thu, 17 Nov 2016 15:07:55 -0800
4264:28667 <![CDATA[Learn next week's Thanksgiving schedule]]> Heather Reifsnyder In the season of giving, Loma Linda University Health is providing many of its employees an extra day of holiday time during Thanksgiving week.

This year, in addition to office closures for administrative and support departments Thursday and Friday, Wednesday will also be a vacation day. Take time to relax, bond with family and friends, and practice wholeness.

Please note that due to the Thanksgiving schedule, the payroll department will be unable to process off-cycle checks (i.e., cash advances, terminations and stop payments) on Tuesday, Nov. 22. Payroll processing has been moved up one day to meet payroll and banking deadlines. For more information about this, call 909-651-4004 or email Payroll@llu.edu.

The editorial staff of News of the Week wishes you and yours a peaceful holiday full of reasons to be thankful. Our next issue will be published Thursday, Dec. 1.

 

 

 

 

 

]]>
Thu, 17 Nov 2016 15:09:23 -0800
4264:28659 <![CDATA[One Anothering in divisive times]]> Dilys Brooks Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you. –Ephesians 4:32 

At a time when our nation is focused on preparing for Thanksgiving, some of us find ourselves still reeling from recent events. This season is usually filled with expectancy as we anticipate end of year celebrations and holidays. This year, there are some who are experiencing a combination of shock, disbelief, fear and uncertainty, while others are feeling jubilation, gratitude and optimism for the future.

Perspective informs the way we assess and perceive all the things occurring in our world, nation, community, organization and families. How can we move ahead together? Are we really as divided as the social pundits claim? Is there hope for reconciliation and rebuilding? Can we trust one another?

These are indeed challenging times to try living and working with one another. Yet, the above passage from Ephesians 4 serves as a template for how we can move forward individually and collectively.

First, be kind to one another. Regardless of on which side of the issues we find ourselves, there is no excuse for unkindness to each other. While our feelings — despair, anger, hurt and sense of betrayal, on the one hand, and on the other, thankfulness and hopefulness tinged with relief — are valid, they can’t be the basis upon which we act.

We need to acknowledge our feelings and find someone we can trust to share the emotions we are carrying around. This may require that we fast from social media and the news in order to recalibrate ourselves on how to extend and receive grace from one another. Now is not the time to walk away from our faith but instead lean into our faith as a source of healing and hope. 

Second, be tenderhearted. Empathy has been too rare a commodity in these past months. Many seem to have lost the ability to share and understand the viewpoints and emotions of others. We have spent more time witnessing combative behavior than compassionate understanding for others who have differing views on a variety of issues.

We are called to be sympathetic to the outlooks, opinions or needs of others, especially when we do not agree. We must also acknowledge that the feelings of others are equally valid when they choose to share them with us.

This brings us to the third imperative, forgiving each other. This is not optional behavior. It actually ought to be the way Christian believers live, because of the tender mercy we have personally received through Christ. Forgiveness is giving up resentment or claim for requital. It is the willingness to give up your desire for revenge on the person who has wronged you. This, however, does take some time.

It would be foolish to pretend that we who compose Loma Lind University Health have not been affected by recent events. However, what others may see as liabilities, we see as many strengths working toward one mission. Let’s intentionally connect with one another by being kind, tenderhearted and forgiving.

When we do this, our outlooks will change, our work environments will change, our families will change and our communities will also change. Who knows? Maybe we can influence the nation and possibly the world to change, too.

Dilys Brooks, MDiv
Associate campus chaplain
Loma Linda University

]]>
Thu, 17 Nov 2016 14:57:13 -0800
4264:28671 <![CDATA[Campus Store offers Cyber Monday sales on Apple iPads and computers]]> Heather Reifsnyder iLLU Tech at the Campus Store is offering significant savings on current-model Apple iPads and computers Cyber Monday (Nov. 28) — and you don’t even have to stand in line.

Why? “We’ve declared it Faculty and Staff Appreciation Day,” says Vincent Garcia, manager of computer sales.

All iPads and Mac computers will be sold tax free, in addition to the education discount always available to Loma Linda students and employees. You can reserve your product ahead of time. Simply preorder by emailing Vincent Garcia at vfgarcia@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, Nov. 22. Pick up and pay for your new iPad or computer on the 28th. 

Now in stock is the long-anticipated new MacBook Pro with Touch Bar laptop.

An additional savings of $34 on the 13-inch MacBook Pro (without Touch Bar) is available when purchase is reserved ahead of time.

The store’s hours Nov. 28 will be 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., and it is located at 11161 Anderson St. Suite 110 adjacent to the Loma Linda Market. Happy shopping.

]]>
Thu, 17 Nov 2016 15:15:09 -0800
4264:28673 <![CDATA[San Bernardino Strong -- film screening]]> Heather Reifsnyder Dec. 2, 2015 — a day of devastation for San Bernardino and the surrounding communities. A terrorist couple attacked Inland Regional Center, killing 14 people and seriously wounding 22 others.

Out of this tragedy, the community drew together, bringing rise to the phrase San Bernardino Strong.

A year later, we remember the events of that day and honor those affected by the mass shooting. The department of advancement films at Loma Linda University Health has produced an inspirational documentary called “San Bernardino Strong.” 

View the trailer to see why you will not want to miss a showing of this on campus in December. The film synopsis explains, “Julie never thought she would be where she is now: healing from two gunshot wounds after her coworker and his wife opened fire at an employee meeting in one of the deadliest terrorist attacks in U.S. history. In the midst of this tragedy, hope lives on. See it in the eyes of Julie, who is set on sharing her hope with others. Witness it in the heroic efforts of first responders helping those injured. And feel it in a bond the community formed like never before.”

The 45-minute documentary will show Dec. 5 at 6:30 p.m. at Loma Linda University Church, 11125 Campus St. In the event of an overflow crowd, attendees can also view “San Bernardino Strong” at the Centennial Complex, 24760 Stewart St. The film may not be suitable for children under the age of 13.

Filmgoers will have the opportunity to sign banners to be given to first responders and colleagues of the victims. Additionally, they may paint Stars of Hope that will be sent to areas in need of hope after disasters.

Parking will be available in the parking structure (lot G) across the street from the church, as well as behind the Centennial Complex in lot X.

For more information, please call 877-LLUMC-4U.

 

]]>
Thu, 17 Nov 2016 15:17:40 -0800
4264:28661 <![CDATA[Why is the influenza vaccination policy changing? Is it Loma Linda?]]> As knowledge and law advance for best medical practices, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Children’s Hospital, Behavioral Medicine Center and Murrieta campus update their policies to reflect the highest standards for patient care. 

To protect patients, the organization has revised its requirements regarding influenza vaccination for health care employees. In the Q&A below, Adrian Cotton, MD, interim medical director of employee health services, provides more information.

Q: Are immunizations still available from employee health services?
A: Yes, Loma Linda has been providing free, onsite vaccination for its employees’ convenience since Oct. 3, and will continue to do so.

Q: Why is the influenza vaccination policy changing?
A: The state of California mandates that all general acute care hospitals require their employees to receive the influenza vaccine annually or declare in writing that they decline it. The vaccine must be received or declined by Dec. 31. The declination form will be available by the end of November. We hope as many employees as possible will receive the vaccine.

Additionally, as of 2012, the hospital-accrediting agency Joint Commission revised and strengthened its standard to reflect current science and the national focus on annual influenza vaccination. The policy requires that each hospital offer the annual influenza vaccine to its employees. Furthermore, the Joint Commission will evaluate hospitals on whether they improve their vaccination rates annually.

In addition to following law and accreditation standards, Loma Linda's policy that all employees should be vaccinated meets recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

Q: If I cannot receive the vaccine, can I still work if I wear a mask?
A: Yes, employees who have not received the vaccination are required to wear masks in patient-care areas. 

Q: Why is it critical for health care workers to be vaccinated?
A: Individuals with influenza are contagious before they feel any symptoms of illness and for five to seven days after becoming symptomatic. Though you may feel healthy when you arrive to work, you could be passing along influenza to vulnerable patients at high risk for complications or even death from the virus. Conversely, the patients could infect you. The virus can spread by droplets to people as far as six feet away. Getting vaccinated protects our employees, their friends and family, and our patients. 

Q: For what reasons can I decline the vaccine?
A: Per CDC guidelines, individuals can decline the vaccine if they have a history of Guillain-Barre syndrome or a severe, life-threatening allergy to the vaccine or any of its ingredients. 

Due to potential access issues with seeing a primary care provider in the necessary time frame, we will NOT be requiring a licensed independent practitioner to sign your declination form this year.

Individuals with egg allergies will be referred to their physician for the vaccine or to employee health services for Flubok, which does not use the influenza virus or chicken eggs in its manufacturing.

Q: How do I decline the vaccine?
A: You can decline the vaccine by filling out a declination form, which will be available by the end of November. 

Q: May I get the vaccination elsewhere if I prefer?
A: Yes, you may receive the vaccine elsewhere if you provide proof. 

Q: When and where can I get the vaccine from employee health services?
A: Mobile vaccine opportunities will be coming to the units. Additionally, the vaccination will be offered in the Medical Center cafeteria  “C” from 7:30 to 10 a.m. on Nov. 18 and Dec. 5, 13 and 19; and from 2 to 4 p.m. Nov. 21, 28 and Dec. 27.

]]>
Thu, 17 Nov 2016 15:04:04 -0800
4264:28675 <![CDATA[In memoriam of a campus giant: Wil Alexander]]> Heather Reifsnyder and Richard A. Schaefer Wil Alexander, PhD, died Nov. 16, 2016, at the age of 95. It is “the loss of a friend, the fall of a leader and the end of an era,” describes his colleague in the School of Religion, Professor David Larson, PhD, DMin.

Alexander made whole person care into the model it is today at Loma Linda University Health. Additionally, he was professor, School of Medicine; emeritus professor, School of Religion; and founding director of the Center for Spiritual Life and Wholeness.

“Our friend Wil Alexander is now gone,” says Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health. “His impact on this campus has been immeasurable and will continue for generations in the lives of those students, residents, faculty and patients he impacted. 

“He was absolute in his commitment to Loma Linda and in his desire that this campus become a model of whole person care, as he so ably defined it. Now it is upon all of us to carry on the incredible tradition he nurtured for so many years.”

After his ordination into the ministry in Lynwood, California, in 1954, Wil Alexander joined the faculty of Loma Linda University as an associate professor of practical theology. For the next nine years he taught courses in counseling, guidance, evangelism, preaching and speech.

Before rejoining the faculty of Loma Linda University in 1973, he earned two master’s degrees, a doctor of philosophy degree and wore many professional hats: chair of the department of church and ministry, Andrews University Theological Seminary; chair, department of religion, Andrews University; pastor, White Memorial Church, Los Angeles; and public relations secretary, Southern California Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

Alexander served as the first dean of the Faculty of Religion at Loma Linda University after the separation from what is now La Sierra University in 1990. While maintaining a strong relationship with the clinical faculty of the university, he successfully preserved a unified religion faculty as the new dean.

As part of the effort to integrate the institutional motto, “To make man whole,” into working practice for students, faculty, staff and administrators, Loma Linda University created a taskforce on spiritual life and wholeness in 1991. As the premise developed, the university appointed Alexander as special assistant to the president for spiritual life and wholeness in 1991.

In 1996, he founded and became director of the Loma Linda University Center for Spiritual Life and Wholeness, a base from which to foster and nurture spiritual life and wholeness in students, health care professionals, their families and their patients. For Alexander, whole person care was all about listening to patients’ stories.

“One of our greatest storytellers has said goodbye for now. Our lives have all been blessed by his presence among us. This organization will move forward greatly influenced by the path he has paved,” says Carla Gober-Park, PhD, MS, MPH, director of the Center for Spiritual Life and Wholeness, and his close friend.

Alexander described his vision for patient care this way:

“I've spent a great deal of time in clinic situations where the patient becomes the best teacher. In more recent years, I've worked on a series of questions and ways in which to interview patients to help them tell their story. I see most patients as wounded storytellers who, out of pain, fear, emotions and relational things that are happening to them, find themselves actually feeling better having told the story. This helps the physician understand how this all inner-weaves together toward caring for them as whole persons.”

Roger Hadley, MD, dean of the School of Medicine, says: "Wil Alexander was extraordinarily successful in teaching generations of physicians a practical and highly effective way to incorporate spiritual care in the practice of medicine. His influence will be felt for many years.” 

Alexander was the author of numerous articles and three books. His distinguished career earned him many awards, including Loma Linda University School of Medicine’s Senior Educator of the Year Award, La Sierra University Alumnus of the Year and the Distinguished Service Award from both Loma Linda University and Loma Linda University Adventist Health Sciences Center (now Loma Linda University Health).

In 2015, the School of Religion created a documentary, “A Certain Kind of Light,” that followed Alexander on patient rounds sharing whole person care and honored his legacy. It screened at Loma Linda University Health earlier this year and has also been shown in a number of national and international film festivals, winning multiple awards.

“Through ‘A Certain Kind of Light,’ we are exposed to a heart that transforms how we see those with whom we have healing encounters,” says Garrett Caldwell, DMin, executive director of public affairs at Loma Linda University Health.

Wil Alexander’s kindness emanated to all whom he met. View the film’s trailer for a glimpse into who he was and how he cared.

]]>
Thu, 17 Nov 2016 15:22:41 -0800
4264:28605 <![CDATA[Don't forget -- open enrollment ends soon]]> This November, employees of Loma Linda University Health have the opportunity to review and make changes to their health plan coverage. This period of open enrollment began Nov. 1 and closes Nov. 15. 

Employees are able to:

  1.  Join Loma Linda University Health’s employer’s health plan
  2. Add dependents to their current coverage
  3. Change health plans (Wholeness Health Plan vs. Base Health Plan) (excluding Murrieta & LLU)

Make your choices at https://peopleportal.llu.edu. Changes take effect Jan. 1, 2017.

For more information, call the department of risk management at 909-651-4010 or email RiskManagementHealthPlans@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 10 Nov 2016 14:33:54 -0800
4264:28603 <![CDATA[Don't miss these new and enhanced employee benefits]]>

]]> View a webinar presented by Senior VP Mark Hubbard on new identity repair, credit monitoring, and personal financial wellness benefits, as well as upcoming innovations to Adventist Healthcare Retirement Plan (AHRP) for eligible employees. Some opportunities require you to act now.

]]> Thu, 10 Nov 2016 13:59:43 -0800
4264:28591 <![CDATA[Time to confess]]> Kathy McMillan Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.  James 5:16

When was the last time you confessed to someone? It’s not high on the priority list for most of us. And yet James encourages members of the church to confess to each other and pray for healing.

We don’t tend to like confession much. Most of us will avoid having to admit we’re wrong at almost any cost. It’s hard to humble ourselves and tell a friend or loved one that we have acted inappropriately, often out of selfishness. We’d much rather forge on, pretending that nothing is wrong, often at the expense of someone else’s well-being.

Scripture is clear that our primary confession needs to be done to God. Only He can forgive sins. But when our words or actions affect another, we must also choose a humble spirit and tell the other person how sorry we are, asking for forgiveness.

Working together brings challenges; we come with varying viewpoints and opinions. We each may tend to want the best for our own department or school and sometimes that causes friction. Sometimes we can’t see the larger picture and our own agenda may prevent us from being as objective as we should be. In the process, words are spoken that may be hurtful.

The Word is clear. When we have hurt someone, we are to confess and then pray for each other. Prayer is an intimate connection to another’s heart. It’s impossible to be angry at a colleague and pray for them at the same time. There is wisdom in James’s advice above. We are promised that those prayers will be powerful and effective as we work together to advance God’s kingdom at Loma Linda University Health and in this world.

Kathy McMillan, MA
Director, employee spiritual care
Loma Linda University Medical Center

]]>
Thu, 10 Nov 2016 12:23:20 -0800
4264:28584 <![CDATA[Give hope -- give life -- give blood]]> Nancy Yuen With Thanksgiving just 14 days away, many have already made plans to gather with family and friends for the holiday.

According to Don Escalante, public relations specialist, LifeStream, blood banks are also planning for the holiday.

“Many people don’t know that there will be a spike in need for blood products Thanksgiving weekend,” he says.

Escalante is grateful to employees of Loma Linda University Health who give the gift of life through donating blood.

The LifeStream van will visit Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta Wednesday, Nov. 16, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

“Please give blood with LifeStream so others in our community in need can be cared for and comforted,” he says.

Donors can give blood as often as every eight weeks.

While all blood types and donation types are needed, “We always keep our eye specifically on the blood type O-negative and platelet supply,” says Escalante. “Type O-negative blood in particular is needed at all times because type-O red blood cells can be given to any patient.”

Donors receive a card four to six weeks after their first donation on which their blood type is listed. “From that point forward, the card serves as ID each time they give blood with LifeStream,” says Escalante, “and it also is valuable for blood donors to have on their person in the event they need an emergency transfusion.”

Donors receive free cholesterol screening and Gift of Life Donor Loyalty Points that may be redeemed in the LifeStream online donor store; they also receive a $10 In-N-Out gift card.

In addition, those aged 18-44 years may register for Be The Match bone marrow donor screening free of charge. 

]]>
Wed, 09 Nov 2016 17:04:25 -0800
4264:28576 <![CDATA[Give to a giver with Adopt-a-Missionary]]> Courtney Haas This holiday season, why not think outside the box of traditional gift giving? Give to a giver through the fourth annual “Adopt-a-Missionary” Christmas project and help spread holiday cheer around the world to missionaries and their families.

This project, sponsored by Loma Linda University Health’s Global Health Institute (GHI), in collaboration with Students for International Mission Service and the National Association of Seventh-day Adventist Dentists, focuses on collecting care packages filled with Christmas goodies for the volunteers and their families currently serving abroad.

With the boxes going out to over 30 volunteers, this is the opportunity to share a little reminder of home and spread the holiday spirit overseas.    

These missionaries are working at Loma Linda University Health strategic interest sites as physicians, dentists, hospital administrators, nurses, public health educators and more. They range from Loma Linda University alumni, LLU global service awardees, LLU deferred mission appointees and Adventist Health International long-term volunteers. 

The task is simple and fun, and care package sponsors can be individuals or groups.

  • Choose a family by contacting the Global Health Institute. There is a limit of two missionary families per department until Nov. 22.
  • Pick up a box from the institute’s office at 24888 Prospect Ave.
  • Fill it up — up to 20 lbs!
  • Return it, unsealed, by Dec. 2.
  • Feel warm fuzzies.

These missionaries are dedicating their lives to fulfill Loma Linda University Health’s motto “to make man whole” all over the world. Give to a giver today and make this project a very special part of the holiday season. 

To learn more about this project and see a list of suggested gifts, please visit lluglobal.com/Adopt or contact Angeli Yutuc, program manager of international service, at 909-558-4876 or ayutuc@llu.edu.

Examples of things to send include peanut butter, batteries, lotion, recipes, movies, music, LLU gear, etc. 

Things not to send include aerosols, fruits and veggies, perfumes, perishable food, etc. 

See flier below for a full list of gift ideas.

]]> Wed, 09 Nov 2016 13:46:36 -0800 4264:28596 <![CDATA[Get your 'Soup On']]> Briana Pastorino Get your appetite ready! The annual Dishes for Wishes event is happening Thursday, Nov. 17 at the National Orange Show Events Center, 690 S. Arrowhead in San Bernardino.

Guests will remember this wonderful night — put together by the Big Hearts for Little Hearts Loma Linda Guild — that will benefit patients at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital.

This year’s “Soup’s On” themed event will welcome six community chefs to the stage as they present their favorite soup recipes. Headlining the event is the Inland Empire’s own Martha Green from The Eating Room and Dough L’ectibles in Redlands.

Chefs from Romano’s Italian Restaurant, Dhat Island Caribbean Creole Cuisine, Watercress Vietnamese Bistro and Loma Linda University Catering will also be demonstrating dishes.

As a special treat, Sherry Nolfe, executive director of patient care, Children’s Hospital, will also take the stage with one of her creative recipes.

Guests will be served by men and women in uniform from Colton Fire Department, Loma Linda Fire Department, Redlands Fire Department and San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department. All tips collected will be donated to Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital.

In addition to enjoying warm comfort food, guests can also mingle and shop from nine vendors, all of which will be donating 20 percent of proceeds back to the Hospital.

Tickets cost $65. Shopping hour begins at 5:00 p.m. and chef presentations begin at 6:00 p.m.

For more information or to purchase tickets go to lluch.org/dishes.

]]>
Thu, 10 Nov 2016 12:29:49 -0800
4264:28588 <![CDATA[Glow run fun to cause weekend parking closures]]> Courtney Haas Loma Linda University Health staff, family members, students and community members are all invited “To Make Man Glow” this weekend at the first annual 5K glow run/walk on Sunday, Nov. 13.

The event will cause parking closures in two campus lots that the department of parking and traffic services wants you to be aware of this weekend. 

The event begins on the seventh floor of parking structure 2 (adjacent to West Hall) on Campus Street at 6:30 p.m. Sunday. To ensure participant safety and allow for preparation, levels three through seven of the garage will close at 5 p.m. Saturday, reopening at 11 p.m. Sunday.

Lot X, located directly behind Centennial Complex, will also be closed for the run/walk at 5 p.m. Saturday, reopening at 9 p.m. Sunday. 

Parking will be available in parking structure 1, across from Loma Linda University Church, during this time.

“To Make Man Glow” event is sure to provide fun for all as participants don their glow gear and run/walk to raise funds for the American Heart Association and the Loma Linda University student activities department. With live music, a photo booth, costume contest, prizes and giveaways, this fun twist on a classic event is something you will not want to miss.

Early registration ended on Nov. 8, but you can still sign up on the day of the event at 5:30 p.m. The entry fee for Loma Linda University students is $10; Loma Linda University Health employees pay $25 and all others pay $35. 

For additional parking information, please contact the department of parking and traffic services at 909-651-3025 (on campus ext. 53025) or parking@llu.edu

For more information about “To Make Man Glow,” download the flier below.

]]>
Thu, 10 Nov 2016 11:35:28 -0800
4264:28600 <![CDATA[As low as it goes]]> Heather Reifsnyder It’s time to celebrate a major milestone in the construction of the new towers for Loma Linda University Medical Center and Children’s Hospital.

As of last week, major excavation is completed — and it’s a big hole.

Depth: 50 feet, three inches

Width side to side: 260 feet

Width front to back: 410 feet

The building’s dimensions will be slightly smaller, but this will be a large medical complex, meeting the growing community’s health care needs with the latest advances in whole person care. Patients will receive expert medical treatment in a space designed for their comfort and healing. Patient rooms, for example, will be private, larger and quieter with in-room controls for lighting and temperature.

See drawings and read about the new towers at http://lluhvision2020.org/clinical-care

The construction team is now installing utilities, and the next visible milestone will be pouring concrete for the foundation in December.

Stay tuned to News of the Week for future construction updates.

]]>
Thu, 10 Nov 2016 12:34:46 -0800
4264:28598 <![CDATA[Free app for emergency notification]]> Heather Reifsnyder When it counts the most, employees need the best possible way to receive emergency notifications from Loma Linda University Health’s LLUH Alerts system. The organization is now offering that via a free mobile app, ContactBridge.

“Installing the app offers many advantages, including increased reliability and speed, ability to receive messages on cellular or internet connections, and the ability to reply to notifications with additional information,” says Ehren Ngo, emergency operations manager, Loma Linda University Health.

On Nov. 8, each employee was sent an email invitation from Ngo with instructions for downloading and activating ContactBridge on their mobile device. While doing so is voluntary, the advantages in reliability and speed are recommended. The app also allows each user to customize his or her notification preferences.

For more information please, email Ehren Ngo (engo@llu.edu), Joe Bruno (jbruno@llu.edu) or Cambria Boyer (cboyer@llu.edu).

Stay safe. Be in the know. Download ContactBridge.

]]>
Thu, 10 Nov 2016 12:32:06 -0800
4264:28594 <![CDATA[One Portal to debut Monday]]> Heather Reifsnyder It’s out with the old. Employees will have a new and better intranet experience at Loma Linda University Health beginning Monday, Nov. 14.  VIP will be replaced by the new One Portal at 3 p.m. that day.

The One Portal has been in beta testing since June 9, 2016, while VIP remained functional. At the cutoff time, VIP will become unavailable.

The portal is found at one.lluh.org. When visiting this site, employees will find improvements including a cleaner design, a more functional search engine and a “My Favorites” feature that allows individuals to create their own quick links.

The Resources section is new and combines in one place need- and want-to-know items such as directories, job listings, employee education, FAQ and emergency preparedness.

Wholeness Spotlight is another new feature on the One Portal homepage that will inspire and inform employees about resources for living a whole life — body, mind and spirit.

Starting in 2017, the One Portal will be available off campus with login, including a mobile-friendly experience on phones and tablets.

The Murrieta campus intranet and some information from MyLLU have been integrated into the One Portal, though neither of those pages is going away at this time. 

Familiarize yourself with the One Portal at one.lluh.org/tour.

Jennifer Hickok, director of web intranet, explains the reasons behind the new site.

“The One Portal offers users a better look and feel, added capabilities and an improved experience no matter the web browser,” she says. “From a technological perspective, the portal saves time and money by using the same content management system as our public webpages — making templates and content more shareable and readily available.”

She adds, “We invite users to submit feedback about the One Portal or to report bugs.”

To do so, click the Bug Report/Feedback link under “Contact Us,” found at the bottom of the page.

]]>
Thu, 10 Nov 2016 12:27:32 -0800
4264:28484 <![CDATA[Devotional -- Living His Love]]> Terry Swenson  Editor’s note: As Loma Linda University Health continues a massive construction project to build the new Medical Center and Children’s Hospital towers, the chaplains invite members of the campus to pray and fast each Tuesday, asking for God’s guidance and wisdom as we continue to grow. Uniting our various entities provides an opportunity for us to truly become acquainted and connected with one other. Below is a devotional from a series in News of the Week exploring scriptures that talk about what the Loma Linda chaplains call “one-anothering.”

***

Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. –Ephesians 4:2, New International Version

I have a confession to make. Sometimes I don’t live out Ephesians 4:2 in the day-to-day of life.

The other morning, I was in a hurry. I’m sure whatever I had to do and wherever I was going were of the utmost importance. I am certain that’s what I was thinking at the time, anyway. I pulled up and stopped behind a car halted at a stop sign. I waited. The car didn’t move. I looked one way and the other to see if the car was waiting for another vehicle. Nothing. Yet the car in front of me didn’t move!

And here’s my confession. I honked my horn, pulled around the car, went toward the intersection and then slammed on my brakes — barely avoiding hitting an elderly lady laboriously making her way across the street. The driver in the car in front of me wasn’t playing with the radio or texting as I had mentally accused them of doing. They were being a courteous and law-abiding driver — which is more than I can say of my actions!

Our mission at Loma Linda University Health is to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ. We focus on living up to that mission every day in our efforts on behalf of our students and our patients. We aim to do the big things. We strive to overcome the difficult things.

But this stop sign incident taught me a truth: Jesus is interested in us living out His love and His ways in the little moments and experiences of our lives. Moments such as interactions with coworkers, patients, visitors and students. Communicating with others on the phone. Courteously reacting to people in the parking lot.

We do this by being humble, which means we think of others instead of always putting our needs and our wants first. We do this by being gentle, versus harshly reacting out of anger or frustration. We do this by being patient and giving the gift of time and second chances to others. 

But, most of all, we can do this by helping others with their burdens and problems and, yes, attitudes and shortcomings. That’s how we accomplish one-anothering! That’s what I hope the driver of that other car at the stop sign felt for me, because I sure needed it at that moment. 

Terry Swenson, DMin
Campus chaplain
Loma Linda University

]]>
Thu, 03 Nov 2016 14:31:59 -0700
4264:28483 <![CDATA[Things are about to get hairy ]]> Loma Linda University Health is proud to partner with the San Bernardino Police Department again this year for the awareness month of No Shave November. During No Shave November, participants forgo shaving and grooming in order to raise awareness about cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

Loma Linda University Health employees and students are encouraged to participate in a variety of ways.

  • Donate $40 to enter No Shave November and allow your hair to grow wild and free.
  • Make a donation to Loma Linda University Health and help fight cancer in the community.
  • Donate $10 for a commemorative coin.

Donations can be made online. All proceeds benefit cancer care at Loma Linda University Health. All gifts are tax deductible. 

A celebratory event at the conclusion of No Shave November will be held on Nov. 30 at Loma Linda University Health – San Bernardino, where prizes will be given in a variety of categories.

For more information on the event please call 1-877-LLUMC-4U or visit the event website.

]]>
Thu, 03 Nov 2016 14:27:50 -0700
4264:28476 <![CDATA[Photo contest now open for Prayer Notes]]> Photographers, would you like to see your photography in the next set of Prayer Notes at Loma Linda University Health?

For the past 14 years, Loma Linda has created an annual set of Prayer Notes to be used in patient care. Each card, similar to a postcard, has a serene nature photo on the front and an encouraging verse of scripture on the back. The cards say, “I prayed for you today and asked God to bless you.” 

It has become a tradition to select photos for the cards via a contest for employees and students of Loma Linda University Health.

Photo entries are now being accepted with a deadline of Friday, Nov. 18, 2016. Images should be inspirational, in color and of nature. Additionally, the photos should be 5.5 by 3.5 inches (vertical or horizontal), in JPG format, with a resolution of 300 DPI. 

In addition to winners having their photos featured on the cards, prizes are as follows:

  • 1st place – $100 gift card 
  • 2nd place – $75 gift card 
  • 3rd place – $50 gift card 
  • Runners up  – $25 gift card 

Submit photographs to Kathy McMillan, employee spiritual care, LLU Medical Center, room 4011.

For more information, email kmcmillan@llu.edu or call ext. 48406.

Download the flier below for further details.

]]>
Thu, 03 Nov 2016 14:11:38 -0700
4264:28473 <![CDATA[Notes from the President -- Global Healthcare Conference]]> Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   November 2016
Global Healthcare Conference

“Richard

Hailing from 42 countries, 320 participants graced our third Global Healthcare Conference at Loma Linda University Health, held Oct. 3–6.

Many of these individuals had come to Loma Linda, and even the United States, for the first time. They represent the roughly 75 Seventh-day Adventist hospitals, some with associated professional schools, from the Majority World (a term I prefer over “developing countries,” which increasingly seems pejorative). This is where more than half of this world’s seven billion+ people live, and western diseases of affluence now compete there with long-term problems of malnutrition, infectious diseases and poor sanitation.

I could not have been more proud of how the Loma Linda campus stepped up with pertinent lectures, fellowship and support for these colleagues with different languages, cultures and economic conditions. Organized by our Global Health Institute, working with our network of institutions in Adventist Health International and others, the conference focused on human resource issues and was titled “Recruiting, Engaging and Retaining the People You Need.”

“Group

By the responses of attendees, we could not have selected a more relevant topic. Their challenges are huge — some say overwhelming — as they seek to staff institutions in resource-depleted environments, with slim financial margins and often limited social amenities.

Embedded in this conference was a smaller group called CAMEL, Consortium of Adventist Medical Education Leaders. These leaders included representatives from the six medical schools and five dental schools now operational within the Adventist Church. Organized by Dan Giang, our vice president for graduate medical education at Loma Linda University Health, and Doyle Nick, our School of Dentistry mission leader, this group looked at more focused issues like reimbursement for teaching clinical faculty, research development and how to develop a culture of spiritual humility and ethics in new professionals. It was a highlight to have Wil Alexander and Lyn Behrens share with the group about Loma Linda’s own journey, which has now brought us to the point where “whole person care” is a featured part of our culture.

My wife, Judy, and I counted it a privilege to once again host the attendees of the Global Healthcare Conference for Sabbath afternoon at our homestead in Oak Glen, where we still had apples on the trees for just this occasion. Nothing is better than food and fellowship in a peaceful outdoor setting with a mix of people from so many countries. For many, picking and eating a crisp apple is a special treat for which I will be thanked for months to come!

“Participant”

The history of these hospitals in the Majority World is impressive. The Adventist Church, largely driven by Loma Linda University graduates, started an average of two new hospitals per year from 1900 to 1950. This has resulted in 25 hospitals in Africa, 14 in Inter-America, 11 in the Philippines, and 11 in India, among others. Some have been lost through the years, and others teeter on the edge of existence even today.

But others are coming back. For example, Bongo Hospital in southern Angola is now being rebuilt following an incredible story of destruction and rebirth after Angola’s protracted civil war. And many other countries where we are not currently present need our brand of compassionate health care, including many in the 10/40 window of latitude, particularly across the vast countries of northern Africa.

It is appropriate to ask why we struggle so hard, against such huge odds, to help maintain these international institutions. An answer not to be overstated comes from the many mothers, children and families whose lives are saved and made better every day at these hospitals. These institutions also provide employment, train health professionals and give visibility to the Adventist Church in many places around the world.

But one of the biggest impacts, in my mind, is on the other side of the equation — the impact on Loma Linda University Health and our faculty, staff and students. If we didn’t take advantage of this incredible opportunity to live out our dreams of compassion and caring for others, we would be the less for it. These service opportunities shape the culture of Loma Linda, making it a better place. They provide classroom examples, laboratory projects and evening stories that mold and cement our values. Coupled with our many local opportunities for service, they provide the core of what we call Mission-focused Learning, truly a mantra for this university.

“Mission

Our recognition of the value of this type of service is prompting an active discussion on campus about how to double the number of our students who travel abroad on mission trips each year. They now number around 400, nearly 10 percent of our student body. But we would like to double it to 800 students. This will require good mentoring and training sites, transportation, local food and housing, security, and so many other logistical issues. But the impact on young lives will ripple for years to come in the understanding and commitment to service these students will maintain during their own professional careers.

The dedicated professionals who work at these international hospitals are “community faculty” for Loma Linda University, guiding and mentoring both our professors and students as they face the real issues and challenges in the world of today.

I want to thank a number of individuals who made the Global Healthcare Conference such a welcoming experience for our guests — Mo, Jennifer, Shaunielle, Amanda, Bing, Angeli, Danjuma, Courtney, Jan, Jerry, Marcos, John, Ed, Obed, Dan, Doyle, Martie and so many others. You have built lifelong friends for Loma Linda University Health. Even more importantly you have encouraged and empowered a cadre of loyal professionals around the world who share our values and commitment to service. The impact this will have at Loma Linda — and to those whom we serve — is immeasurable.

Sincerely yours,

“Richard

 

 

 

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

Vision 2020: The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow

]]>
Thu, 03 Nov 2016 13:37:50 -0700
4264:28480 <![CDATA[Meet Diversity Council member Nicceta Davis]]> Heather Reifsnyder and Larry Becker “My vision is that the love that Christ modeled will lead our community to seek to genuinely understand and appreciate differences.”

These are the words of Nicceta Davis, PhD, associate professor in the School of Allied Health Professions and a member of the Diversity Council at Loma Linda University Health.

Loma Linda University Health’s Diversity Council plays a key role in helping understand our similarities and differences. The 22 members of this council are anxious to discover both best practices and areas of concern across campus and have offered to meet with anyone who has ideas or comments to share.

News of the Week is running a series introducing Diversity Council members. Learn more about Davis’s vision for diversity at Loma Linda University Health here

As a faith-based institution, Loma Linda University Health is committed to the fundamental principle that every person is created of equal value in God’s sight. 

]]>
Thu, 03 Nov 2016 14:23:29 -0700
4264:28478 <![CDATA[Children's Hospital to open pediatric clinic in Indio]]> Briana Pastorino Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital knows that one of the keys to healing is meeting the needs of the communities it serves. Children’s Hospital has served families in the Coachella Valley for over 23 years by providing high-quality health care services. Soon, many of these needs will be met a little closer to home.

The city of Indio will soon be home to the Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital – Indio Outpatient Pavilion, which will house a pediatric specialty clinic, pediatric urgent care and the SAC Health System, offering primary and specialty care to families in the area. It is slated to open in late 2017.

Plans were officially unveiled Nov. 1 during a groundbreaking ceremony. City officials, community members, Children’s Hospital patients and hospital leadership attended the event at the site of the new pavilion. View this video about the project shown during the event.

Loma Linda University Health President Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, welcomed attendees and shared plans for the new space.

“Today’s celebration is a step forward toward providing the best possible health care to children and families in the Coachella Valley,” he said. “Our hospitals and clinics are where our beliefs are put into action, where our knowledge, our expertise and our compassion come together to restore lives and families.”

Hart added that this new outpatient pavilion is a central part of Loma Linda University Health’s comprehensive strategy for wholeness.

“It is a bold vision — a vision of what is possible when we come together as a community to create the future for our children and their families,” he said.

Hart shared that Loma Linda University Health’s longstanding partnership with SAC Health System continues to grow and announced that SAC will be joining in on the move to Indio to provide whole family care to the community. SAC Health System has been working with Loma Linda University Health to provide health care to families for more than 56 years in the San Bernardino community.

“Our partnership has always worked so well because the missions of Loma Linda and SAC Health System are perfectly aligned,” said Nancy Young, MHES, president and CEO, SAC Health System. “We believe everyone deserves exceptional health care.” 

Young stated that as the discussion about creating a local health care option for the children of the Coachella Valley grew, she started to see that SAC Health System could help support that goal.

“For a child to be well, their family must be on the same journey,” she said. “We are excited to work with your community, and the service organizations currently providing care, so we can become part of the health care network in the Coachella Valley.”

With over 135,000 children living in the desert region, the Indio Outpatient Pavilion will be a welcome addition to the Coachella Valley.

“The needs of this community are unique and complex,” said Scott Perryman, MBA, senior vice president and administrator, LLU Children’s Hospital. “We are honored to bring you the best care this region has to offer right here to Indio where we can serve the highest population of children in the Coachella Valley.”

Perryman said that focus groups were conducted with residents and parents of children in this region and revealed the need for a dedicated pediatric urgent care and crucial pediatric specialty services like pulmonology, neurology, cardiology and endocrinology, to name a few.

“Our plan is to bring you those services in late 2017 with the intention of growing the spectrum of care over time,” Perryman stated, “ultimately, making this region a fully integrated partner in our pediatric health network.”

With its variety of services, the Indio clinic will be able to accommodate more than 60,000 unique pediatric visits each year. Additionally, this project will create more than 40 new employment opportunities.

The pavilion will also offer an outpatient pharmacy and retail space.

Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital – Indio Outpatient Pavilion will be located near the city’s civic center, which is 70 miles east of Loma Linda University Health’s central campus. 

Renovations of a currently existing building will begin soon. The construction and design teams designated to the project are Hanna Construction and Callison RTKL architects.

]]>
Thu, 03 Nov 2016 14:14:52 -0700
4264:28375 <![CDATA[Know your 'Colorful Blend of Benefits']]> Heather Reifsnyder Employees of several Linda University Health entities are invited to familiarize themselves with “A Colorful Blend of Benefits” during the 2016 benefits fairs for staff of Loma Linda University Medical Center, Shared Services, Health Care, Children’s Hospital and Behavioral Medicine Center.

The fairs will take place Nov. 1–3 according to the schedule below; employees will learn about the benefits they receive through their jobs. The event also boasts a $500 grand-prize package for one employee to win.

For more information, please contact Candace Alarid at calarid@llu.edu or ext. 33462. 

This is also the time of year for employees of the above entities to review their health and life insurance benefits, as open enrollment runs Nov. 1–15.

Schedule for benefits fairs

The 2016 benefits fair and open enrollment period for Loma Linda University took place in spring.  

 

]]>
Thu, 27 Oct 2016 14:20:57 -0700
4264:28379 <![CDATA[Stop passing judgment ...]]> Kathy McMillan Editor’s note: As Loma Linda University Health continues a massive construction project to build the new Medical Center and Children’s Hospital towers, the chaplains invite members of the campus to pray and fast each Tuesday, asking for God’s guidance and wisdom as we continue to grow. Uniting our various entities provides an opportunity for us to truly become acquainted and connected with each other. Below is a devotional from a series in News of the Week exploring scriptures that talk about what the Loma Linda chaplains call “one-anothering.”

*** 

“Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister.” –Romans 14:13

We make dozens of judgments every day. Before we leave the house, we’ve made decisions about what we are going to wear, if we are going to exercise and what we will eat for breakfast. We look at the freeway traffic and choose to take back routes to work; we decide to park a little farther and walk in exchange for a covered parking spot.

Many of the judgments we make are minor and fairly inconsequential. But others may change the course of our lives over time: we ponder our life circumstances and choose what kind of attitude we will hold; we consider personality and character traits of people and bring some into our closest circle of friends. 

But it’s what happens to the others — those whom we don’t draw close — that is the focus of this week’s devotional. Scripture is clear about our responsibility toward those who think differently than we do: “Let us stop passing judgment on one another.” Clearly, this is talking about more than where we are going to park for the day. It is a call to change our heart — not just our behavior.

Jesus habitually startled the religious leaders of his day by intentionally reaching out to those whom other people judged as unfit. He bridged the gulf between those who were accepted and those who were shunned. He touched the unclean and restored to favor those who were cast out.

Particularly in this season, we are called to follow his example. We do not have to agree with others’ political views, theology and ideation in order to treat them with civility, courtesy and love.

As we work toward a cohesive Loma Linda University Health, we have opportunities to live with these principles. It is a good time to review — and put into practice — the last verse of that chapter we have heard so often: “But the greatest of these is love.” –1 Corinthians 13:13

Kathy McMillan, MA
Director, employee spiritual care
Loma Linda University Medical Center

]]>
Thu, 27 Oct 2016 14:50:00 -0700
4264:28385 <![CDATA['Calling All Healthy Heroes']]> See a theme of “Calling All Healthy Heroes” in action at the free Family Health Fair and 5K Walk/Run this Sunday, Oct. 30, at Loma Linda University Health.

In addition to the free 5K, the health fair will include fun activities and health screenings. 

Receive your flu shot and have your vision checked while also enjoying face painting, a photo booth, a foam pit, games, prizes, food trucks and the chance to win a Disneyland family package. 

Show up at 7 a.m. to register for the 5K, which begins at 8 a.m. The health fair runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The event will take place at Loma Linda University Drayson Center, 25040 Stewart St. For more information, call 1-877-LLUMC-4U. 

]]>
Thu, 27 Oct 2016 15:41:41 -0700
4264:28377 <![CDATA[Who are Seventh-day Adventists?]]> Loma Linda University Health is blessed by employees from many faith traditions who help live out the organization’s mission to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ.

Whether longtime or new employees, individuals from other traditions may wonder about the basic beliefs of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, which owns Loma Linda University Health. Perhaps they have heard someone talk about the special gift of Sabbath or the focus on a healthy lifestyle.

Interested employees are invited to an informational session for an overview of Adventist beliefs. There are two dates to choose from:  

• Tuesday, Nov. 8, from 5:30 – 7 p.m., or
• Wednesday, Nov. 9, from noon – 1:30 p.m. 

There will be ample time for questions following brief presentations, which will take place at Wong Kerlee International Conference Center.

Lunch or dinner will be served. The event is free to the first 30 respondents per each date.

To sign up or for more information, please call employee spiritual care at ext. 87261.

]]>
Thu, 27 Oct 2016 14:39:22 -0700
4264:28387 <![CDATA[ThankSharing food drive begins]]> Thanksgiving season is upon us, and what better way to live thankfully than by sharing our bounty with those in need? 

As is the custom at Loma Linda University Health, the ThankSharing food drive bins are in place now through Nov. 19. Please consider donating nonperishable food and toiletry items to be distributed to those in the local community in need.

Items gathered at Loma Linda University Health will be given to the nonprofit SAC Health System for distribution to patient families in need. The food drive is also taking place at the Murrieta location of Loma Linda University Medical Center; these items will be distributed in the Murrieta area.

To be a part of this encouraging program, drop off nonperishable food items at one of many bins placed throughout the Loma Linda University Health network:

  • LLU Medical Center – main lobby
  • East Campus – staff lounge
  • Behavioral Medicine Center – administration offices
  • Surgical Hospital – employee entrance
  • Faculty Medical Offices – mailroom
  • Drayson Center - lobby
  • Mountain View Plaza – room 228 lobby (upstairs)
  • LLUH 101 Building – employee entrance
  • Outpatient rehabilitation center – break room
  • LLU Medical Center – Murrieta lobby
  • School of Allied Health Professions and School of Public Health – Nichol Hall rotunda
  • School of Dentistry – student lounge
  • School of Medicine – Coleman Pavilion A1116
  • School of Nursing – West Hall lobby
  • School of Pharmacy – Shryock Hall faculty/staff lounge

To learn more about this program, please contact Kathy McMillan at kmcmillan@llu.edu or ext. 48406. 

]]>
Thu, 27 Oct 2016 15:47:06 -0700
4264:28381 <![CDATA[Introducing ... Loma Linda University Health's Diversity Council]]> Larry Becker As a faith-based institution, Loma Linda University Health is committed to the fundamental principle that every person is created of equal value in God’s sight. That commitment is lived out each day as we faithfully share the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ. But we are also confronted with the reality that our work must be done in communities that are increasingly alienated and polarized by racial, economic, political and gender issues.

Loma Linda University Health’s Diversity Council plays a key role in helping us understand our similarities and our differences. The 22 members of this council are anxious to discover both best practices and areas of concern across our campus and have offered to meet with anyone who has ideas or comments to share.

News of the Week will be introducing a new council member each week. This week meet Jonathan Portney, president of the LLU Student Association.

The diverse Loma Linda University Health campus family offers learning opportunities for each of us, every day. The dedicated members of our Diversity Council will help us deal with the challenges and opportunities we face.

 

]]>
Thu, 27 Oct 2016 15:10:57 -0700
4264:28383 <![CDATA[Children's Hospital to open pediatric specialty clinic in Indio ]]> Briana Pastorino Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital knows that one of the keys to healing is meeting the needs of the communities it serves. It has served families in the Coachella Valley for over 23 years by providing high-quality health care services. Soon, many of these needs will be met a little closer to home.

The city of Indio will soon be home to the Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital – Indio Outpatient Pavilion, which will house a pediatric specialty clinic, pediatric urgent care and the SAC Health System, offering primary and specialty care to families in the area.

A groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 1, at the site of the new pavilion, which is expected to open in late 2017. 

“To us, providing hope to kids and their families is not just something we believe in — it is something we live,” says Scott Perryman, MBA, senior vice president and administrator of LLU Children’s Hospital. “We look forward to bringing services to those children and their families in the Coachella Valley, and believe this new pavilion will be an important health care resource for the area.” 

Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital – Indio Outpatient Pavilion will be located near the city’s civic center, which is 70 miles east of the central campus.

The pavilion will also offer an outpatient pharmacy and retail space.

 

]]>
Thu, 27 Oct 2016 15:24:46 -0700
4264:28226 <![CDATA[Loma Linda University parking permit notice]]> Courtney Haas As of Oct. 1, Loma Linda University parking permits have expired.

If you have a University permit and haven't renewed it, you can do so by visiting https://parking.llu.edu/ and logging into your personal account. Once logged in, you will automatically be directed to a screen with your information.

Confirm or update information related to your personal details, work/school details and vehicle details, and then click submit. Upon submitting the data you will see a dialogue box prompting you to click OK. When you have completed this step, you should see a message informing you that your permit has been successfully renewed. 

Loma Linda University Medical Center permits will not expire until March 1, 2017. 

For additional information or help completing this process, please contact the department of parking and traffic services at 909-651-3025 (on campus ext. 53025), or at parking@llu.edu.

  

]]>
Wed, 19 Oct 2016 15:58:47 -0700
4264:28248 <![CDATA[See live photos of the campus transformation project ]]> Nancy Yuen When the construction site gates are open, people walking or driving past 11234 Anderson Street can catch a glimpse of progress that’s being made on the Loma Linda University Health campus transformation project.

The project consists of the construction of new patient care towers that are being built in front of the hospital’s original entrance so that Loma Linda University Medical Center and Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital will comply with California State seismic safety laws.

Those who are interested in seeing what is happening behind the construction site walls may now view images of the site online.

On the Campus Transformation website there’s always something new to see, as live images taken by three cameras are updated every few seconds. 

Clicking on Camera 1 or Camera 2 will reveal portions of the site as well as occasional passenger cars on their way to the Medical Center.

Camera 3 shows the site itself, with dust occasionally rising as large trucks are filled with soil while bulldozers, excavators and backhoes dig into the earth. The site continues to grow deeper, and will reach its final depth at the end of October.

Information about the campus transformation is available on the website and images streamed by the three live cameras, updated 24 hours a day, can be accessed by clicking on “Live construction feed.”

]]>
Thu, 20 Oct 2016 10:27:52 -0700
4264:28252 <![CDATA[Colorful event promises fun for the whole family]]> Olivia Moses and Nancy Yuen Loma Linda University Health staff, their families and the community are invited to join Loma Linda University students, faculty and staff for the first annual 5K run/walk, “To Make Man Glow.” The event will be held on the Loma Linda University Health campus.

According to Carlyle Ingersoll, director of student activities, participants will receive a goody bag with a wrist band, glow gear and a T-shirts that illuminate under black light. The entry fee for Loma Linda University students is $10; Loma Linda University Health employees, $25 and all others, $35.

Festivities will begin the evening of Nov. 13 as participants gather on the seventh floor of parking structure #2 on Campus Street at the beginning of the event.

There will be a costume contest, photo booth, live music and giveaways. According to Shawn Plafker, student activities, the 5K route will pass by several campus sculptures including the Good Samaritan, Who Touched Me and the Mission Globe.

According to Ingersoll, online signup, which can be accessed here, ends Nov. 8 with packet pickup the next day at the Loma Linda University student activities office.

Proceeds will benefit the American Heart Association and the Loma Linda University student activities department. Participants may also sign up at the event (cash only). 

]]>
Thu, 20 Oct 2016 13:04:15 -0700
4264:28235 <![CDATA[Recruiting, Engaging, and Retaining the People You Need]]> Courtney Haas Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Central America, Europe, North America and South America. Where else can you find representatives from Seventh-day Adventist hospitals and clinics around the world all joined together but at the Global Healthcare Conference.

Held every other year at Loma Linda University and bi-annually at a regional location, this year the event was sponsored by Loma Linda University Health in collaboration with Adventist Health International (AHI), the General Conference Departments of Education and Health Ministries, and the Consortium of Adventist Medical Education Leaders (CAMEL).

The conference, adjoined together with CAMEL participants, was held in Centennial Complex Oct. 13-16, with supplementary post-sessions taking place on Oct. 17-18.

With 198 international attendees representing 42 countries and a total of 300 participants, this year’s conference was the largest to date. The focus was human resources: Recruiting, Engaging, and Retaining the People You Need.

The feedback? That this was the most applicable and relatable topic that the attendees have experienced. Each year they are provided with a new focus that allows them to take what they learn and apply it to their areas of work. 

Beverly Braithwate Chan, the hospital administrator for Davis Memorial Hospital in Guyana said, “This is something that we struggle with at our own hospitals. So receiving this information and learning that other people have similar issues is valuable and helps to unite us as we move forward.”

From detailed presentations by Loma Linda experts, and case studies from successful Adventist sites around the globe, to a variety of team building activities that left attendees doubling over in laughter—this event was a huge success. Areas of discussion covered, interprofessional communication, human resource life cycle, quality improvement as well as finance and legal implications. 

Shaunielle Abreu, Loma Linda University Health human resources manager presented at several of the sessions and expressed afterwards that, “Human Resources and employment laws may be different by country but people are people. I think that being able to share experiences with all our global hospitals can only help all of us improve as we try to do what's best for our employees.”

 

 

]]>
Thu, 20 Oct 2016 09:43:20 -0700
4264:28250 <![CDATA[Sharing a gift of hope]]> Contributed report When one of his friends was diagnosed with cancer, Ulysses was inspired to help kids who are facing cancer. He used his birthday to give to Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital. “Life is more important than gifts,” Ulysses says, “because life lasts longer than a toy.”

A short video with his story is featured on the Vision 2020 website, which lists many ways for kids and adults to become involved with Vision 2020 and help build hope for our community.

]]>
Thu, 20 Oct 2016 11:20:16 -0700
4264:28142 <![CDATA[Devotional -- Of the same mind]]> Terry Swenson Editor’s note: As Loma Linda University Health continues a massive construction project to build the new Medical Center and Children’s Hospital towers, the chaplains invite members of the campus to pray and fast each Tuesday, asking for God’s guidance and wisdom as we continue to grow. Uniting our various entities provides an opportunity for us to truly become acquainted and connected with each other. Below is a devotional from a series in News of the Week exploring scriptures that talk about what the Loma Linda chaplains call “one-anothering.”

*** 

“Now may the God who gives perseverance and encouragement grant you to be of the same mind with one another according to Christ Jesus.” –Romans 15:5

As I read this passage, I was struck with how the world around us is at such odds with what this scripture is asking us to do. Be of the “same mind with one another”?! In what area of your life can you see that being lived out? We live in an age of dissimilar minds focused on self and self-interests.

Generationally, the Baby Boomers claim that, when it comes to their age, 60 is the new 40. Who are they (we) kidding? Boomers won’t let go and mentor successors to their positions. Gen Xers are angry, frustrated and impatient because they are ready to lead, but don’t get the opportunity. Millennials — well, Millennials are going their own way and bypassing or ignoring what’s come before.

Racially, things in America are tense and anxious and frustrated. Socioeconomically, the rich just keep getting extravagantly richer, the poor even poorer and those in the middle play hopscotch with their bills from paycheck to paycheck. Politically? Well … enough said! Religiously?! Religions are entrenching deeper into a position of conservancy and immovability with deep in-reach and less outreach. All the while, they are missing the fact that less and less of the population are devout or claiming to be “spiritual” but not religious.

So, in light of all of these differing minds, how on earth can we at Loma Linda University Health ever hope to be of the “same mind”?

Ah! Don’t overlook the answer that Paul provides in the last part of the passage! He says, “… be of the same mind with one another according to Christ Jesus.” There is the answer! When we listen to the pundits of our time, we hear conversations about creating large looming walls that separate us and drive us apart from one another. Instead we need to look, listen and experience things with the mindset of our Savior. When Jesus looked at people, He did not see them as “different” or “other.” He saw them as individuals who were made in the image and likeness of God. When we see each other as Jesus does, we will recognize that we are one human family. We laugh, we cry, we dream, we have fears, we are born, we grow up, we grow old, we die, and on and on.

As we continue to become a more united Loma Linda University Health with our many strengths and one mission, let us remember what Jesus prayed for us. It’s found in John 17:20-21:

“My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in Me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as You are in Me and I am in You. May they also be in Us so that the world may believe that You have sent Me.”

To be at one simply takes one thing — to love “one another” as we are loved by God. Love well, Loma Linda family!

Terry Swenson, DMin
Campus chaplain
Loma Linda University

]]>
Thu, 13 Oct 2016 11:47:40 -0700
4264:28134 <![CDATA[Calling seniors and all those interested in healthier lifestyles]]> Susan Onuma Loma Linda University is hosting its 5th annual Lifestyle Health Fair on Wednesday, Oct. 26, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at LLU Drayson Center, 25040 Stewart St., Loma Linda, CA 92354.

It will be held in conjunction with the annual Senior Health Fair and Fitness Fair. The joint event is presented by Loma Linda University School of Public Health and the Drayson Center. Attendance is free.

Bess Getman, events manager at Drayson Center, says, “The Senior Health and Fitness Fair is a much anticipated event every year. Seniors by the hundreds come out to take advantage of the demonstrations, tours and special membership rates that are offered.” The theme is “We’re Having a Beach Party.”

“We’re very excited to offer our 5th annual Lifestyle Health Fair to help our community members live healthier lifestyles and make real changes in their dietary and physical habits,” says Hildemar Dos Santos, MD, DrPH, assistant professor, preventive care and lifestyle management, Loma Linda University School of Public Health.

During the combined fair, volunteers from various departments and schools at Loma Linda University will offer attendees a variety of free services such as acupressure, blood pressure monitoring, senior massage, respiratory health screening, body composition analysis and nutrition education.

Healthy food options will be presented by a number of food vendors such as Pho 7 Day, Happy Family Chinese Vegetarian Restaurant, Pizza Corner and Najwa’s Mediterranean Cuisine, as well as health and wellness vendors.

]]>
Thu, 13 Oct 2016 11:37:23 -0700
4264:28136 <![CDATA[Learn the latest at employee forums]]> Heather Reifsnyder Employee forums at Loma Linda University Health allow employees to hear from their administrators about need-to-know and want-to-know information current to the organization. As a bonus, there are prizes and refreshments.

Over the next two weeks, employee forums will take place for Loma Linda University Shared Services and Loma Linda University Medical Center/clinical sites (excluding Murrieta). The schedule is as follows. 

Loma Linda University Shared Services – Wednesday, Oct. 26
9–10 a.m. — Lounge at LLUH 101 Building, 101 E. Redlands Blvd.
10:30–11:30 a.m. — Same location
2–3 p.m. — Jesse Room in Wong Kerlee International Conference Center

Loma Linda University Medical Center – See chart below

]]>
Thu, 13 Oct 2016 11:39:27 -0700
4264:28125 <![CDATA[Put your message in the sky]]> Heather Reifsnyder Need to get the word out?

Departments at Loma Linda University Health now have the option to advertise events or other messages on a new electronic billboard installed at the LLUH 101 Building on Redlands Boulevard.

This prime real estate means the sign is visible from Interstate 10.

Placements are now available. Ads run for a length of four weeks; during that time, several different ads will appear on a rotation of 7 to 10 seconds each. The cost of $1,000 offsets the expense of designing the ads and maintaining the billboard, as well as supporting administrative functions. 

Email marketing@llu.edu to get started with your ad or to learn more information about this newest way to spread the good word about Loma Linda University Health. 

]]>
Thu, 13 Oct 2016 11:22:35 -0700
4264:28127 <![CDATA[Video -- Construction update from the CEO ]]> ]]> How far down will the digging go, and when will a building start to rise? Find out in this video message from Medical Center CEO Kerry Heinrich, who also explains the building’s features that will make it one of the most seismically sound hospitals there is.

]]>
Thu, 13 Oct 2016 11:24:16 -0700
4264:28140 <![CDATA[Make it a record year for influenza immunization]]> In preparation for the 2016–2017 influenza season, Loma Linda University Medical Center employee health services began providing influenza immunizations Oct. 3.

All health care employees hired before Dec. 31, 2016, must either receive the influenza immunization or provide a written declination by Dec. 31. All employees who work any hours during a single day from October through March are required by law to participate in this program.

To learn when and where you can receive the immunization, please visit the employee health services intranet page.

For those who choose to receive the influenza immunization elsewhere, complete the “received elsewhere” form and attach proof of vaccination.

Information regarding eligibility for and completion of declinations will be forthcoming, as well as specifics relating to the masking protocol as ordered by the San Bernardino County Department of Public Health.

“Ultimately, we ask that you think about protecting yourselves, your loved ones and the vulnerable patients for whom we provide care and service,” say Sue Talboom, director, and Adrian Cotton, MD, interim medical director of employee health services. “Remember that each patient depends on us for healing and prevention of avoidable infections.”

For additional information regarding influenza, visit cdc.gov/flu.

]]>
Thu, 13 Oct 2016 11:45:46 -0700
4264:28130 <![CDATA[Urgent care now offering online check-in services]]> Update — October 3, 2019

Loma Linda University Health's options for urgent care services grew in summer 2019. Please learn about the new options by visiting the full story on news.llu.edu:

"Loma Linda University Health offering new options for urgent care services for the community"

]]>
Thu, 13 Oct 2016 11:29:35 -0700
4264:28132 <![CDATA[ President Hart named one of '110 Physician Leaders to Know in 2016']]> Susan Onuma Loma Linda University Health president and CEO Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, has been recognized as one of “110 Physician Leaders to Know in 2016” by Becker’s Hospital Review.

A leading industry publication, Becker’s Hospital Review named in its latest issue the top physican leaders of hospitals and health systems across the country.

“All recipients have demonstrated outstanding leadership and clinical expertise throughout their careers, leading initiatives to improve their individual organizations and the health care of the communities they serve,” the magazine said in a statement. 

U.S. Rep. Pete Aguilar (CA-31st District) says, “Dr. Richard Hart’s devotion to his work is obvious to all who have met him. He has helped families throughout the Inland Empire in their greatest hours of need. His vision has provided immense opportunity and hope to San Bernardino and our region.”

Roger Hadley, MD, Loma Linda University Health’s executive vice president of medical affairs, and dean of Loma Linda University School of Medicine, says, “Dr. Hart is a true visionary — for our institution, for our community and for our world. We are excited that he has been brought to the forefront as a physician leader to know by Becker’s Hospital Review. Dr. Hart is a remarkable man.”

Hart’s legacy of community and global service

In the late 1960s, as a medical student at Loma Linda University, Hart founded the Social Action Corps (SAC) as an outreach effort of students and staff at Loma Linda University and Loma Linda University Medical Center. Over the course of decades, volunteers offered temporary medical clinics in donated spaces within the community. When Norton Air Force Base closed in 1992, SAC acquired it and converted it into a medical facility.

Now called SAC Health System, it has expanded to include a presence at the new Loma Linda University – San Bernardino campus, a 150,000-square-foot facility in downtown San Bernardino offering an innovative approach to health care, education and health awareness for the region. Primary and specialty care of all types will be provided as well as dental care. Filling out the space will be a large behavioral health area with both private and group counseling rooms, a pharmacy, laboratory and vegetarian cafeteria.

The San Manuel Gateway College occupies the upper floor of Loma Linda University Health – San Bernardino, providing a unique venue for educational opportunities that will offer both vertical and horizontal integration of San Manuel students with Loma Linda students and physicians in their specialty training — three levels of education, with many different health disciplines learning side by side. The facility offers classrooms, laboratories, a simulation lab, an anatomy lab and learning space.

Hart has served Loma Linda University Health since 1972, including serving as chair of the School of Public Health’s department of health sciences; director of the Center for Health Promotion; chair of the School of Medicine’s department of preventive medicine; dean of the School of Public Health; and president (previously chancellor) and CEO of the University.

It is Hart’s bold strategic vision for the future that fuels Vision 2020, a $1.2 billion project with a $360 million philanthropic goal — the largest such endeavor in the history of Loma Linda University Health and the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Vision 2020 includes the design, development and construction of a new Children’s Hospital tower and adult hospital — currently the largest hospital construction project in the state of California; a new Wholeness Institute and research center; and scholarship and educational endowments and programs that will change the approach for health care and education for the future.

Hart is also president of Adventist Health International, a nonprofit organization focused on upgrading and managing mission hospitals by providing governance, consultation and technical assistance to over 43 affiliated Seventh-day Adventist hospitals and 67 clinics throughout Africa, Asia, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. While not directly a part of the Loma Linda University Health system, Adventist Health International continues to work closely with Loma Linda’s Global Health Institute (of which Hart serves as director) in collaborative efforts to provide aid to hospitals in need.

In addition to his numerous leadership and operational responsibilities, Hart also remains a practicing physician, seeing patients one day a week.

]]>
Thu, 13 Oct 2016 11:33:54 -0700
4264:28007 <![CDATA['... One another' to be theme of Week of Renewal]]> Learn to deepen your relationships with God and others through attending Week of Renewal Oct. 10-14 at Loma Linda University. Associate Campus Chaplain Dilys Brooks, MDiv, will speak each day on the theme of “… one another.”

The services will meet Monday through Friday at Loma Linda University Church from 11 to 11:50 a.m.

The theme of “… one another” goes hand in hand with the theme of the school year’s weekly Wednesday chapel services: Connect+ED. Learn more in this previous News of the Week story.

]]>
Thu, 06 Oct 2016 15:38:57 -0700
4264:28009 <![CDATA[Video -- Planting Seeds of Hope]]> Advancement films ]]> Seventeen-year-old Rylee found joy in life through treatment at the Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center in Redlands and Murrieta. She shares her story of overcoming depression in this video, which was shown Oct. 4 at the annual Seeds of Hope fundraising dinner for the Behavioral Medicine Center. 

]]>
Thu, 06 Oct 2016 15:40:37 -0700
4264:28005 <![CDATA[Devotional -- Peace among all]]> Kathy McMillan Editor’s note: As Loma Linda University Health continues a massive construction project to build the new Medical Center and Children’s Hospital towers, the chaplains invite members of the campus to pray and fast each Tuesday, asking for God’s guidance and wisdom as we continue to grow. Uniting our various entities provides an opportunity for us to truly become acquainted and connected with each other. Below is a devotional from a series in News of the Week exploring scriptures that talk about what we call “one-anothering.”

***

… be at peace with one another.  –Mark 9:50

Standing in line at the grocery store, I heard the customer in front of me grumbling to the cashier: “Everybody’s fighting with everyone! Why can’t people be civil anymore?”

It’s a fair question. In our world, our nation, our church and our individual lives, we struggle. Peace seems like a rare commodity as families argue, candidates accuse and nations wage war. Our organization is continuing to experience shifts and changes as we proceed to our goal of becoming one. Perhaps you are also experiencing conflict or uneasiness as we go through our growing pains. 

When we think of peace, we often think of inner calm in the midst of challenging circumstances. However, “freedom from disputes” is one of the dictionary definitions of peace — and that may be exactly what Jesus was trying to convey. Be at peace with one another. Don’t disagree; don’t quarrel; don’t sow discontent. Avoid complaining and criticizing. Instead, choose to find ways to build bridges and sing harmony with each other.

Paul, in his biblical letters to the churches, offers practical advice on getting along. To the Romans, he wrote, “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor ….Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse .… Never pay back evil for evil to anyone. If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men.” Romans 12:10,14,18

Getting connected with others, learning their stories or points of view, goes a long way in creating an environment where peace can flourish.Connect” is the first element of Loma Linda’s whole person care model, and it is the theme we will be exploring throughout the academic year across the entire organization.

When we have been wronged, the easiest path is often to fight back — if not physically, then with cutting words. We feel justified in our response because the other party was so out of line and they hurt us so deeply. These are some of our most challenging moments, when we must remember and follow Jesus, our Example. His words are simple and direct: be at peace with one another. Look for opportunities to make giants of other people. 

Kathy McMillan, MA
Director of employee spiritual care
Loma Linda University Medical Center

]]>
Thu, 06 Oct 2016 15:36:39 -0700
4264:27992 <![CDATA[Save a life: blood donation opportunities in October]]> Nancy Yuen There are few things more alarming than needing blood when it’s not there. According to Don Escalante, increasing numbers of people have contributed blood at Lifestream blood bank’s recent blood drives at Loma Linda University Health, helping to ensure that there are ample supplies of blood for patients.

Tuesday, Oct. 11, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the LifeStream blood bank will visit the Loma Linda University Health main campus. LifeStream’s mobile unit will be parked adjacent to Magan Hall.

Additional Lifestream blood donation dates are:

Thursday, Oct. 13, 2016, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., Loma Linda Faculty Patient Business Office on Hospitality Lane. The bloodmobile will be parked at 268 W. Hospitality Lane, San Bernardino.

Tuesday, Oct. 18, 2016, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Loma Linda University School of Dentistry, 11234 Anderson St. The bloodmobile will be parked in front of the School of Dentistry in the cul de sac.

Blood donors receive the satisfaction of knowing they helped save lives. Each donor will receive a free cholesterol screening, and incentives include a $10 Barnes & Noble gift card and donor loyalty points which may be used in LifeStream’s online donor store.

If you haven’t donated in the previous 56 days, you’re eligible to help. Be sure to bring a photo ID, hydrate and don’t skip meals before donating blood.

While walk-ins are welcome, appointments are encouraged and receive priority. To set an appointment, call 800-879-4484 or visit LStream.org.

]]>
Thu, 06 Oct 2016 14:49:18 -0700
4264:28000 <![CDATA[Notes from the President -- Building Bridges]]> Richard Hart, MD, DrPH  

 
October 2016
Building Bridges

We are in a political year unlike any other, and this election is forcing a rough re-examination of our goals and direction in this country. The polarization propagated by candidates from all sides has featured and even accelerated our American struggle to deal with our differences. Cultural, economic and racial disharmonies have come to define so much of whom we seem to be. Ideologies of all types strive for dominance in each evening’s news.

What can a faith-based institution, with a justifiable pride in its consistency of mission for over 111 years, offer in this cauldron of cultural chaos? Is anyone listening — can anyone hear — a message of compassion and caring, of justice and integrity, in such a din of noise? We do not need to look abroad or very far away to sense the desperateness, the hopelessness, of so many today. We must own these challenges as our own, even here in our own Inland Empire of Southern California. Our own San Bernardino has been the focus of the media too often, and usually for the wrong reasons, over the past few years.

“Hart

It is in this context that Loma Linda University Health, with its great diversity of people and backgrounds, is called to pursue its mission. Values that seem so outdated to many are still taught on this campus — Justice, Compassion, Humility, Integrity, Excellence, Freedom and Self-Control. Are we even realistic to believe that we can call out this kind of character, this personhood, in a world that seems to be heading in the wrong direction?

In David Brooks’ recent book, The Road to Character, he contrasts what he calls “Resume Virtues” with “Eulogy Virtues.” Resume Virtues are those external degrees and accomplishments that one piles up to get ahead in a competitive world. Eulogy Virtues are the relationships and the quiet, inner characteristics like honesty, bravery and kindness that are talked about at your memorial service. He characterizes the Millennials of today as having an obsession with Resume Virtues, leading to an “overdeveloped mind and an underdeveloped soul.” Loma Linda University can and should counter that perception.

Two weeks ago, I had the privilege of walking once again in the footsteps of Fernando and Anna Stahl, 1909 nursing graduates of the American Medical Missionary College in Battle Creek, Michigan, a forerunner of Loma Linda University. The Stahls worked as missionaries for nearly 30 years in both the jungles and Altiplano of the country of Peru. Peruvian national history makes clear they saw and challenged the norms of the day, with its class differences, its subjugation of human rights and the utter depravity of large segments of society.

To their own peril, the Stahls championed both education and health care for those most in need, eventually overthrowing the elite system of “essential” slavery. I couldn’t help but wonder as I wandered those historical paths, “Where are the Fernandos and Annas of today?”

Can we call forth the same boldness of spirit and conviction to confront our own cultural divides? Can we put aside our own collection of Resume Virtues to spend time Building Bridges of hope and empowerment for those with neither?

To even come close to accomplishing these lofty goals, we need to own and challenge our personal and collective limitations. This campus too often reflects many of the biases and perceptions we all bring with us. Some of these barriers are visible and recognized, while others fall into the bin of “unconscious biases” — those feelings and beliefs we don’t even perceive in ourselves or understand but which very much influence our daily walk. We have not escaped these forces.

We must accept our place in the larger society, struggling with poverty and race, with new understandings about sexual identities, with chance vs. choice, with the reality that we are all carrying both genetic and social backgrounds that control our perceptions and behaviors in powerful ways.

Last year, we established a Diversity Council at Loma Linda University Health in an attempt to understand and bridge these issues. This group of individuals from across this campus has come together regularly and been brave enough to be honest with each other, to recognize in our individual histories both struggles and triumphs. This journey is still underway, and will probably never have an observable destination. But the promise is real and the commitment to Building Bridges is palpable. This group has committed to help turn their own struggles into understanding and compassion for others, their pain into promise for others.

“Diversity

Earlier this week in the annual University convocation service, I introduced the council members, offering their offices, their arms and ears, as a beginning point for listening to concerns and challenges, large or small. While we recognize that there are some scars we can never completely erase, we also believe that listening and beginning the road to understanding are essential steps in healing. The council members are Kenny Boyd, Dilys Brooks, Garrett Caldwell, Nicceta Davis, Daisy DeLeon, Jonathan Portney, Lyndon Edwards, Dan Giang, Kent Hansen, Jerome Kabayiza, Monica McCarthy, Susanne Montgomery, Laura Nist, Lizette Norton, Jon Paulien, Pedro Payne, Edelweiss Ramal, Terry Swenson, Tammi Thomas, Esther Valenzuela, Arwyn Wild, Trevor Wright, Nancy Young and Farnoosh Zough.

These representatives are available to listen to concerns and have committed to a non-judgmental response that can bring healing to our wounds.

Our new Loma Linda University Health – San Bernardino campus was also developed to help us in this very endeavor. While the world might think we are engaged in benevolent work for the needy next door, my hope is that this new campus will also be a laboratory of learning for us — our students, residents and faculty. A place where we confront human need and find resources, where we can see the challenges and potential of those we care for, where a person’s genetic code influences their lives more than their zip code.

To accomplish this we are going to need to develop bridges. Not just bridges of intellect and clinical skills, but bridges of understanding and friendship. We are going to need to listen and absorb, to engage with feelings and the realities of the streets and ‘burbs around us. We are going to need to find and define new partnerships for the health care industry with people who can connect and motivate our patients in ways we could never accomplish. This is the best hope for the new goal we all talk about now — population health.

This is the recognition that we must look beyond the patient in the clinic to embrace their neighborhood, their stores and parks, their transportation and homes, their relationships and dreams. San Bernardino and its environment are ideal for this type of learning, and we must capture its potential in every respect.

But let me express here a major concern I have. Nathaniel Hawthorne captured this concept when he wrote “Benevolence is the twin of pride.” It will be too easy for many of us to feel we are doing great things for San Bernardino, for its people and communities. And when you feel that way, you often expect some recognition in return. You often feel superior to those you are serving and get frustrated when they don’t appreciate what you have to offer. You become condescending in your attitude and approach.

We must always remember that we are not serving the poor or disenfranchised, we are serving our God. We are caring for His children, who have justifiable feelings and sensitivities. Our relationships can only be effective if we can personally feel comfortable relating to them as equals in God’s eyes. The Bible itself is replete with this counsel.

“San

The young professionals being educated in our San Manuel Gateway College are our newest colleagues, partners in the drive for a more equitable distribution of resources, and more cost effective health care. Loma Linda University Health was privileged to have the first class with us at convocation, and I introduced them each by name: Dahajee Allan, Angelica Estrada-Tinoco, Damaris Gaona, Miguel Ibarra, Michelle Laboy, Wendy Lopez, Julissa Ponce, Edilma Ramirez, Hannah Reed, Diana Ruiz, Christopher Torres and Neery Velazquez.

I encouraged them: “Thank you for becoming our partners in these challenging times. Your understanding and relationships are crucial to our collective commitment to improve the health and well-being of our communities. Bear with our biases and awkwardness as we seek to wrap our minds around your journeys and aspirations. We will need more of you, many more. We need you as colleagues, to extend our commitment and compassion to your families and neighborhoods. We need you to identify and define barriers to growth and development in both individuals and communities so we can collectively seek to overcome them.”

Let me close by sharing a quote from Robert Kennedy, who felt passionately about these issues of moral courage in today’s world:

“Each time a man stands up for an ideal, or acts to improve the lot of others, or strikes out against injustice, he sends forth a tiny ripple of hope, and crossing each other from a million different centers of energy and daring, those ripples build a current which can sweep down the mightiest walls of oppression and resistance. … Few men are willing to brave the disapproval of their fellows, the censure of their colleagues, the wrath of their society. Moral courage is a rarer commodity than bravery in battle or great intelligence. Yet it is the one essential, vital quality for those who seek to change the world which yields most painfully to change.”

I leave you today with that challenge. May this campus, this community, this haven committed to healing, be sensitive and open to all as we seek to walk this path for the betterment of our community and world. And in that journey, may this new academic year bring growth and fulfillment for all of us.

Sincerely yours,

 

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

 

Office of the President, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350

Copyright © 2016 by Loma Linda University

llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 06 Oct 2016 15:20:25 -0700
4264:27880 <![CDATA[Pharmacy services at Medical Center realizes significant savings for the organization]]> Heather Reifsnyder Two programs implemented last year by pharmacy services at Loma Linda University Medical Center are cutting costs for the organization.

“Our pharmacy administrators and employees are doing Loma Linda University Health proud by implementing initiatives resulting in significant operational savings,” says Beth Elwell, MBA, executive project director for operational excellence, LLU Medical Center. “The savings allow us to better serve the community.” 

Medical Center executive leadership commended a number of pharmacy employees Sept. 29.

For securing savings through the federal government’s 340B Drug Pricing Program, the leaders recognized Patricia Hurtado, regulatory specialist, and Renee Elliott, 340B coordinator and pharmacy billing specialist.

For implementing other non-labor cost-saving initiatives that saved Loma Linda University Medical Center $900,000 in 2015 and will save an expected $3.2 million by the end of 2016, hospital leaders recognized Antony Gobin, PharmD, MBA, director of affiliate pharmacy services; Michael Campbell, PharmD, MBA, director of children’s pharmacy services; Dan Kardasinski, PharmD, director of adult pharmacy services; and Norm Hamada, PharmD, director of clinical pharmacy services.

The pharmacy team is led by Paul Norris, PharmD, executive director of pharmacy services. He is also associate dean for clinical affairs at LLU School of Pharmacy.

For impressive feats in cost savings and for excellent patient care, Elwell concludes, “We are very fortunate to have such a dedicated pharmacy services team.”

]]>
Thu, 29 Sep 2016 16:02:55 -0700
4264:27857 <![CDATA[Devotional -- Deep love]]> Terry Swenson The end of the world is coming soon. Therefore, be earnest and disciplined in your prayers. Most important of all, continue to show deep love for one another, for love covers a multitude of sins.” –1 Peter 4:7-8

After viewing or reading about local, national and world events on your favorite media source, if I were to ask you to sum up what you saw in one word, what would it be? Now let’s say that you knew the end of the world was coming — and soon — and I asked you the same question. What would your word be this time? Hopelessness? Anxiety? Fear? All three would be good top contenders.

Recently, I received an advertisement for emergency preparedness supplies. There’s nothing really noteworthy about that. Living in Southern California, I often receive ads for fire or earthquake preparedness. But this one? This one was different. This preparedness package contained all the items I would need to survive for a year when society collapsed and Armageddon was upon us. Really?! How would that even work? I have a store of food and supplies while the marauding, starving crazed hordes are ravaging the land and they are just going to wave and pass me by? Now don’t get me wrong. We should all take seriously the state of things around us. Being prepared for emergencies and natural and manmade disasters is just good sense. But if we are talking about the end of the world coming soon — what would be most important to you?

That is the context and question posed in our scriptural passage found in the writings of Jesus’ disciple, Peter. What did Peter consider to be the most important of all? Top on his list is to “…continue to show deep love for one another.”

Let’s look at the key components of his statement. The first is to show deep love. Not the kind of “love” I have for my favorite technological gadget or top tune on my playlist. Not the trivial “love you” tagline on a text or tweet. Rather, a deep love. Deep love is a love that knows one another. Deep love is one that comes from journeying through life’s ups and downs with one another. Deep love helps and sacrifices and holds accountable and lifts up and is there when you need it. Deep love changes everything. Deep love transforms.

Just as important as the deep love concept is the “one another” component. Fact: never have there been so many humans so crammed together on this earth.

Fact: never have we been more connected to each other through proximity and technology. Fact: never have so many people felt so lonely and isolated.

We were not wired to live alone. In our deepest being, we are all about “one another-ing.”

Take stock of your time expenditure in life. Who do you spend most of your waking hours with? Spouse? Significant other? Family? No. We spend most of our time at work — here at our spot at Loma Linda University Health. This should be a place of “deep love for one another.” Why? Because that is our mission — “To continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ.” Jesus said:

So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other.” –John 13:34

“One another-ing” is not just something we should do. One another-ing should be the very focus and goal of everyone who works in and walks through each entity, office, clinic and classroom of Loma Linda University Health. It starts with you. Love and care for one another. It changes everything!

Terry Swenson, DMin
Campus chaplain
Loma Linda University

]]>
Thu, 29 Sep 2016 11:17:08 -0700
4264:27859 <![CDATA[Commuter survey results reveal progress to be made]]> Each year, Loma Linda University Health conducts two separate commuter surveys as mandated by the South Coast Air Quality Management District. One is exclusively for Loma Linda University employees, and the other is referred to as the “Medical Center” survey but actually includes all other Loma Linda entities with the exception of LLU Behavioral Medicine Center and LLU Medical Center – Murrieta. 

The university survey was conducted in April and had an 81 percent response rate, revealing an average vehicle ridership of 1.211 people. The Medical Center survey took place in June, garnering an 88 percent response rate and showing an average vehicle ridership of 1.175 people. The South Coast Air Quality Management District requires organizations to attain an average vehicle ridership of 1.5. 

There are great reasons for employees of Loma Linda University Health to share their commute.

The organization offers generous rideshare benefits to its employees. One reason to offer these benefits is to encourage employees to participate in a rideshare program in hopes of reaching the required 1.5 average vehicle ridership number.

While Loma Linda University Health did not reach that goal with the 2016 surveys, the results of the survey were enough to avoid additional fees.

“Thank you to all who completed the survey,” says Patricia Ibarra, employee transportation coordinator.

“But it does not stop here,” she adds. “We need to improve our average vehicle ridership next year and every year after that until the 1.5 people-per-vehicle goal is reached. This can only be achieved by more employees joining one of our great rideshare programs and reaping the benefits offered to them for participating.”

Loma Linda University Health’s rideshare programs offer employee benefits for commuter methods including carpools, public transit, walking, biking or vanpooling.

“Try one of these programs out for a day or two to see if it is something you might like,” Ibarra encourages. “Be part of the solution, not the pollution.”

The perfect time to try one of these programs is during rideshare week, Oct. 3-7. Pledge to rideshare at https://www.ie511.org/ie and be entered into a drawing for some amazing prizes. As an alternative to signing up online, paper pledge forms can be obtained at the rideshare, parking and traffic office located in the West Hall parking garage on Campus Street.  

For further information about Loma Linda University Health’s rideshare programs, call ext. 53033.

]]>
Thu, 29 Sep 2016 11:21:07 -0700
4264:27861 <![CDATA[Outstanding Loma Linda nurses recognized with DAISY Awards]]> Larry Kidder When nurses exceed the expectations of their leaders, co-workers, patients and families, it’s important to recognize their efforts in specific and tangible ways, according to Helen Staples-Evans, DNP, chief nursing officer for Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital. 

“What did they actually do?” Staples-Evans asks. “Providing specific details reinforces their exceptional care and encourages their co-workers to do the same.”

The DAISY Award recognizes exceptional nurses; those submitting nominations are asked to describe in specific ways why they’ve selected an individual to receive the award. 

“These are examples of meaningful recognition,” explains Staples-Evans. “The DAISY Awards help us to celebrate what is going right.”

The acronym, DAISY, stands for Diseases Attacking the Immune System. The DAISY Foundation was founded in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, who died in 1999 at age 33 of a rare autoimmune disease, after surviving two bouts with Hodgkin’s disease. Two months before he became sick, he and his wife, Tena, had welcomed their first baby.

The Barnes family felt blessed by the nurses who cared for Patrick during his last weeks of life in the hospital. To recognize them for their kindness and compassion — as well as their clinical excellence — the family established the DAISY Awards.

Twelve nurses were recently honored with DAISY Awards at Loma Linda University Health:

• Lucinda Esparza, unit 5700
• Joanna Yang, DNP, advanced practice registered nurse honoree
• Rozann Causey, LLUMC – East Campus
• Heather Blaine, LLU Surgical Hospital
• Luchia Hansen, unit 8100
• Sarah Gregory, LLU Behavioral Medicine Center
• Dawn “Ru” Kirk, unit 5700
• Tad Worku, emergency department
• Carl Santos, LLUMC – East Campus
• Janelle Warren, LLU Surgical Hospital
• Bryan Billedo, LLU Behavioral Medicine Center, and
• Patricia Radovich, PhD, advanced practice registered nurse honoree.

Individuals who nominated these nurses included comments about why, including the following two examples.

A patient’s mother wrote: “Lucinda greeted us with such compassion and tenderness; it was as if we were distant family who had never met. With my son, it felt like she was taking care of the one and only patient she will ever take care of.”

A nursing colleague in unit 8100 wrote: “Luchia would not be back the following day, but she couldn’t get the patient or the baby off of her mind. So with a welcome gift in hand, Luchia headed back [to the unit] to visit. Luchia was able to assist the [staff] and bring the patient to the NICU to see her baby boy for the very first time.”

To nominate a nurse who has provided extraordinary care to you personally or to a family member, or to recognize a colleague who has gone above and beyond the call of duty, contact The DAISY Foundation by email at MelissaBarnes@DaisyFoundation.org or call 206-406-7193.

]]>
Thu, 29 Sep 2016 11:32:17 -0700
4264:27863 <![CDATA[Video -- crafting a change]]> Advancement films ]]> Meet youth members of the San Manuel Tribe of Mission Indians who created traditional tribal crafts to sell to benefit Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital. 

]]>
Thu, 29 Sep 2016 11:51:14 -0700
4264:27732 <![CDATA[Seeking research project ... on Mars]]> Tony Yang “I want to be an astronaut.”

It’s not too surprising to hear that from kids when asked the all-too-common question “What do you want to be when you grow up?” But most people do just that — grow up — and move on to something else more, well, realistic.

Not Michael Pecaut, PhD. He started his dream like lots of other kids — when he saw something that looked like a lot of fun. In his case, it was a visit from a NASA official to Pecaut’s elementary school, who took a blow torch and scorched a tile from a space shuttle.

“It was the coolest thing,” Pecaut recalls, with an excitement in his voice and a little sparkle in his eyes as if he were still 8 years old. “Ever since then I wanted to be an astronaut.”

But unlike most people, his dream never faded. In his spare time, Pecaut read science fiction. Academically, he got as close as he could — his BS, MS and PhD are all in aerospace engineering — before joining LLU School of Medicine in 1999. He currently serves as vice chair, division of radiation research, and professor, basic sciences.

Even when his eyesight got in the way — NASA didn’t allow its astronauts to wear glasses — he didn’t lose hope. He kept dreaming until he got the break he needed: NASA changed its “no glasses” policy. So, just six months ago, he applied to be an astronaut. 

He knows his odds are slim — he’s one of 18,000 applicants. But what kind of a dream would it be if statistics stood in the way? Instead he remains focused on how he could contribute as a NASA astronaut.

“In our latest space flight experiment, we will inoculate animals in space with a vaccine to see if there are changes in antibody responses and immune memory,” Pecaut says. While other organizations are trying to do this type of research, Loma Linda University was the first to be funded by NASA to do an in-flight vaccination. Plus, since astronauts have little training in handling animals, Pecaut is ready to step in and provide his expertise.  

Where in space would his expertise be best utilized? While NASA selects the mission for its astronauts, Pecaut hopes to go to Mars. NASA currently has a plan for a three-year mission for the first visit to Mars, including the return trip home, which would be a good length of time to fulfill his lifelong dream. If Mars were livable, however, Pecaut would consider staying there for the rest of his life.

“Sure, why not?” he asks casually. “All I have is my dog. It makes leaving a little bit easier. If I had a family it’d be harder. But I want to be a scientist forever.”

And for Michael J. Pecaut, PhD, aerospace engineer, professor, researcher and kid who never lost his dream, there’s no better place to do that than … Mars.

]]>
Wed, 21 Sep 2016 15:22:28 -0700
4264:27757 <![CDATA[Wil Alexander Wholeness Series kicks off next week]]> Courtney Haas and Yolanda Martinez The 2016–2017 Wil Alexander Wholeness series is kicking off next week with speaker Joel Fuhrman, MD, family medicine physician, six-time New York Times best-selling author and nutritional researcher.

This is the first in a series of 12 free events focused on wholeness, open to all. Fuhrman’s presentation will take place Sept. 28 at 5 p.m. at Loma Linda University Church.

Specializing in preventing and reversing disease through nutritional and natural methods, Fuhrman hopes attendees will take away a greater understanding of basic principles of nutritional excellence and how they can increase health and longevity.

Throughout the upcoming school year, the series will cover topics ranging from Tony Valenzuela, DPT, EdD, sharing about “Living Our Mission: LLU Students Serve” to Roger Woodruff, MD, detailing his take on “Beating Burnout: Recreating Passion and Purpose.”

While registration is not required, students must bring their student ID to be scanned for credit in attendance of all programs.

Continuing education credit is also available for the Sept. 28 event to the following groups:

  • Nurses — one hour with the California Board of Registered Nursing (reciprocal with respiratory care) and one hour with the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation
  • Registered dietitians and dietetic technicians — one unit from the Commission on Dietetic Registration
  • Physical therapists — one credit with the Continuing Competency Approving Agency by the Physical Therapy Board of California
  • Speech-language pathologists — one hour from the California Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology Board

To view the full 2016-2017 schedule, click here.

For more information about this workshop or the Wil Alexander Wholeness Series, call the School of Allied Health Professions portfolio department at ext. 83378 or 43787.

]]>
Thu, 22 Sep 2016 11:07:43 -0700
4264:27764 <![CDATA[Fall chapel schedule released]]> Courtney Haas The university chaplains invite one and all from Loma Linda University Health to attend University @ Worship, held Wednesdays from 11 to 11:50 a.m. at Loma Linda University Church. This year, the theme, Connect+ED, focuses on bringing students and faculty together with intentional purpose.

Campus chaplain Terry Swenson, DMin, explains:

"Everyone loves a story. Stories remind us of where we come from, whom we belong to and who we are. Stories are the connective tissues that bind us together. The story of the Bible tells a compelling narrative of a true God who loves His children, establishing a way of salvation and providing a route to eternity. The narrative uncovers the God of grace who speaks, listens, acts, loves and sacrifices His only Son, Jesus, to connect us back to Him.

The chapels for the 2016-2017 school year will explore connectedness through the scriptures and life of Jesus. Swenson quotes Jesus’s words in John 13:34-35: “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”

The fall quarter schedule of speakers is as follows:

Sept. 28 – School chapels
Oct. 5 – LLU convocation 

Week of Renewal – “…one another.”
Oct. 10 – Dilys Brooks
Oct. 11 – Dilys Brooks
Oct. 12 – Dilys Brooks
Oct. 13 – Dilys Brooks
Oct. 14 – Dilys Brooks

Oct. 19 – Terry Swenson
Oct. 26 – Lisa Clark-Diller
Nov. 2 – Kathy McMillan
Nov. 9 – Tyler Stewart
Nov. 16 – K.C. Hohensee
Nov. 30 – Melissa Otto

]]>
Thu, 22 Sep 2016 13:42:41 -0700
4264:27766 <![CDATA[Rewire your brain]]> Learn mindfulness meditation and other mindfulness skills that increase nerve connections in brain areas that promote focus, empathy and regulation of emotional reactivity. 

Mindfulness means deliberately paying attention to our present experience — the events, sensations, thoughts and feelings that are happening right here, right now, without rejecting the parts that don’t meet our preferences. Mindfulness meditation is an exercise to train the mind to come back to present experience when it wanders off into worries about the future, rehashing of the past or criticism of the present. 

The calm attentiveness resulting from mindfulness training can bring more effectiveness and satisfaction to work and relationships, greater ability to be attentively present to those we care about, more tranquility and greater enjoyment of life and our relationship with God.

As a bonus, it improves sleep!

This free workshop series is open to all and led by an experienced mindfulness teacher — John Testerman, MD, PhD, associate professor, department of family medicine, Loma Linda University.

Pre-registration is not necessary. The workshops will take place each Wednesday evening for seven weeks from Oct. 5 through Nov. 16 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Meetings will convene in the department of psychology building at the southwest corner of Anderson Street’s right-angle turn in downtown Loma Linda — 11130 Anderson St. in the Strutz Library room.

After 5:00 p.m., non-ticketed parking is available in the restricted lot on the corner. However, please enter the building from the front sidewalk near the large electronic time and temperature sign, rather than the parking lot entrance. The Strutz Library is the first door on the left after entering from the sidewalk. 

Watch for the small posted signs. Meetings will start and end on time.

For more information, email John Testerman at jtesterman@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 22 Sep 2016 13:44:33 -0700
4264:27769 <![CDATA[Devotional -- Remember]]> Dilys Brooks Editor’s note: As Loma Linda University Health continues a massive construction project to build the new Medical Center and Children’s Hospital towers, the chaplains invite members of the campus to pray and fast each Tuesday, asking for God’s guidance and wisdom as we continue to grow. Below is a devotional from a series in News of the Week based on the biblical book of Nehemiah, in which Nehemiah faced a massive building project of his own.

***

“Remember me, O my God, for good.” Nehemiah 13:31b

It’s that time of the year again at Loma Linda University Health; we welcome the classes of 2017-2020 to our campus. They have arrived with confidences, aspirations, ambition, anticipation and perhaps some trepidation. For some this place has become a home away from home, for others this is their first foray to a strange land.

This group will find themselves striving to learn and acquire the requisite skills to serve as health care professionals at a momentous time in our organization’s history. We are in the midst of several structural changes — the construction of two new hospitals, another parking structure as well as the coalescing of our organization into One Loma Linda. While some parts of the transformation will be obvious, others will be subtler and not as perceptible to the students or us.

We have spent the last several months reflecting on the story of Nehemiah as it chronicled the rebuilding of the wall surrounding Jerusalem. This project was also momentous, and there were forces at work from without and within to delay or halt the progress of the construction. There were those who personally derided the project and even went as far as sending a negative and untruthful report to Nehemiah’s employer, which caused the work to be halted. When that didn’t work, there were plots hatched to cause physical harm to the project manager and the workers. Truly this was a challenging time to rebuild the walls.

The same could be said about our projects. We may not all be privy to the outside forces that attempt to derail the mission of our organization, yet we can be assured that they exist. Perhaps you have experienced some internal trials that have caused you to become distressed or disheartened about meeting the goals of your department. What can we take away from Nehemiah’s experience? There are two lessons that come to mind — He was personally committed and he had obstinate faith.

As we embark upon the academic year 2016-2017, we too need to remain committed to the mission and vision of the organization — departments, schools, etc. Is it truly that simple? Well, yes and no — Nehemiah wasn’t only unswerving; he had tenacious faith. He made time for personal devotion and prayer, which can sometimes get neglected or minimalized as we go about the business of Loma Linda University Health. While we have much to do in the upcoming months, may we continue to pray, encourage each other and work together to indeed continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ. 

]]>
Thu, 22 Sep 2016 13:58:53 -0700
4264:27774 <![CDATA[Video -- Cookies 4 cancer]]> Advancement films ]]> There’s still time left in September to visit Corky’s Kitchen & Bakery; $1 of each cookie purchase this month is donated to LLU Children’s Hospital. Learn the story in this video featuring Cheryl Richards-Madison of Corky’s Fontana location.

 

]]>
Thu, 22 Sep 2016 14:13:07 -0700
4264:27781 <![CDATA[Clean and pure: thanking the employees who keep our environment safe]]> Heather Reifsnyder Cleanliness in hospitals is nothing less than a matter of life and death. The hundreds of environmental services employees in the six hospitals of Loma Linda University Health are as vital as the health care teams who care for patients. 

To thank these lifesavers, Loma Linda University Health held appreciation lunches for environmental services employees at three locations — Loma Linda University Medical Center and the East Campus and Murrieta locations.

Administrators and others served the food for the honored employees. Scott Perryman, MBA, senior vice president/administrator at LLU Children’s Hospital, helped out.

“It means everything for our sick babies and children, and their families, that the environmental services team keeps the hospital clean and sterile, especially considering that many of our patients have compromised immune systems due to their illness and treatment,” he says. “I’m thankful every day for the environmental services employees who ensure our patients’ health and safety.” 

]]>
Thu, 22 Sep 2016 14:52:07 -0700
4264:27679 <![CDATA[Devotional -- The gift of time]]> Kathy McMillan Editor’s note: As Loma Linda University Health continues a massive construction project to build the new Medical Center and Children’s Hospital towers, the chaplains invite members of the campus to pray and fast each Tuesday, asking for God’s guidance and wisdom as we continue to grow. Below is a devotional from a series in News of the Week based on the biblical book of Nehemiah, in which Nehemiah faced a massive building project of his own.

***

In those days I saw people in Judah treading winepresses on the Sabbath and bringing in grain and loading it on donkeys, together with wine, grapes, figs and all other kinds of loads. –Nehemiah 13:15

About 5 p.m. on Friday afternoons, life begins to take a turn for the better. As the Sabbath hours approach, work stress begins to fade and a distinct calm settles in. There is liberation from the daily toil, a promise of peace. 

From a secular viewpoint, taking a Sabbath’s rest may appear foolish. Why would one choose to give up a day in which to be productive? It might seem like laziness to the uninformed.

From the beginning of time, God built a weekly cycle of rest into our lives. He provided a space in time to simply be with Him. However, this inaugural Sabbath did not come after an exhausting week for Adam and Eve; it was their first full day of life.

God knows that we will be best prepared to take on a week after we have spent significant time in worship and communion with Him. He has set aside 24 hours each week and sanctified them.

In the story we have been following about rebuilding Jerusalem, Nehemiah took some time to return to his job as cupbearer for the king of Babylon. When he came back to Jerusalem some time later, he was terribly distressed to learn that many of his countrymen were working on Sabbath rather than resting as God designed. 

Sabbath is not about rules and regulations, dos and don’ts. It is about relationship, rejuvenation and rest. Cynthia Ozick says, “The Sabbath is set apart from routine so that the delights of being alive can be savored without the distractions of noisy demands, jobs, money, and all the strivings of ego. Both power and powerlessness become irrelevant; on the Sabbath equality and dignity rule. Only a life in danger can override the Sabbath’s focus on spiritual and moral elevation through tranquility, fellowship, study, song, beauty, cleanliness, family intimacy. Every festive Sabbath meal is a holiday of thanksgiving. The Sabbath inspires us all to become the best that we can be.”

Sabbath cannot be overrated! If you haven’t been in the habit of celebrating this weekly gift from God, I invite you, this weekend, to set aside your to-do list and discover the delight of Sabbath.

Kathy McMillan, MA
Director, employee spiritual care
Loma Linda University Medical Center

]]>
Thu, 15 Sep 2016 11:05:44 -0700
4264:27677 <![CDATA[The Loma Linda Experience]]> Courtney Haas All faculty members are encouraged to attend Loma Linda University’s annual faculty colloquium Thursday, Sept. 22, in the Centennial Complex from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Interested faculty should RSVP by email to provost@llu.edu as soon as possible.

The entire day is devoted to “The Loma Linda Experience.” Separated into two sessions, morning and afternoon, the colloquium will also include a faculty luncheon served at noon.

“The faculty colloquium is the one time each year that the entire faculty are invited to come together and discuss issues that challenge and unite our campus,” says Ron Carter, PhD, provost of Loma Linda University. “This year’s topics go to the heart of who we are as an institution and what we want to become. We will explore the philosophical roots and apply them to our desire to grow.”

The morning session will feature updates on legal issues that relate directly to Loma Linda University as a faith-based institution. This valuable information is beneficial to all faculty members as they carry out their daily responsibilities on campus, covering topics such as unconscious bias and inter-professional education.

In addition to delicious food and camaraderie at the luncheon, attending faculty will be present for an award ceremony featuring the Richard Winn Accreditation Award and the recognition of University Faculty Council leadership and their service to the faculty.

The afternoon session will provide a change of pace for attendees with a panel discussion concentrated on the topic “What I wish I knew about LLU before coming to LLU.”

Speakers Ted Levterov, PhD, director, Ellen G. White Estate – Loma Linda University Health branch office; Jon Paulien, PhD, dean of LLU School of Religion; and Randy Roberts, DMin, vice president for spiritual life and mission, will share their perspectives pertaining to the spiritual aspect of Loma Linda University Health during the afternoon session.  

]]>
Thu, 15 Sep 2016 10:51:16 -0700
4264:27681 <![CDATA[LLUMC - Murrieta celebrates five years ]]> Susan Onuma Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta celebrates its five-year anniversary with a community open house, in partnership with Big Hearts For Little Hearts – Temecula Valley, on Sunday, Sept. 25, from 2 to 4 p.m.  

Opened in 2011, the 256,000-square-foot, 106-bed, state-of-the-art acute care hospital delivers advanced care to residents in Southwest Riverside County. The facility owes its origins to the vision and dedication of a group of community physicians and investors who formed Physicians Hospital of Murrieta (PHM). Together the group purchased the land, hired an architect and obtained regulatory approvals to build the hospital. Later, the project became a joint venture between PHM and Loma Linda University Medical Center. Groundbreaking occurred in December 2008, and the hospital was completed in 2011.

“Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta is an important component of our system,” says Trevor Wright, MHA, chief operating officer, Loma Linda University Medical Center. “We remain committed to providing advanced, innovative health care to the Murrieta community.”

As the first hospital in the Murrieta-Temecula region to provide open heart surgeries and lifesaving heart care procedures, Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta has cared for thousands of heart patients from San Jacinto, Fallbrook, Menifee, Murrieta, Temecula, Lake Elsinore and other surrounding communities who needed advanced cardiology care. In August 2013, it became the first licensed STEMI (heart attack) receiving center in the region. 

Among the clinical services offered at Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta are back and neck pain care, behavioral and mental health services, cancer care, emergency services, heart care, a mother-baby center, orthopedics and rehabilitation services, surgical services, a women's diagnostic center, wound care and hyperbaric medicine.

]]>
Thu, 15 Sep 2016 11:07:38 -0700
4264:27594 <![CDATA[Highlights from Board of Trustees August meeting]]> President Richard Hart A message from Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health:

Our Board of Trustees plays a key role in helping us determine the vision, mission and goals of Loma Linda University Health. Their high level analysis of our direction adds vital perspective to our work of setting strategic and operational goals. Members of the board bring significant scientific, educational, legal and mission expertise. A number of Seventh-day Adventist Church leaders hold board membership, facilitating our continued participation in the Church’s global outreach.

Because many board actions affect what happens here at Loma Linda on a daily basis, we plan to launch a new electronic newsletter to appear shortly after each board meeting. We will report on significant board actions, and explain their importance to how we do our work. That newsletter will debut following the next board of trustees meeting to take place in December.

The board did meet on August 30, and I want to share a few of the key items that came from that meeting:

Clinically Integrated Network — update

  • Loma Linda University Health has taken a leadership role in working with other Inland Empire hospitals, health care organizations and physician groups to explore the development of a Clinically Integrated Network.
  • This network will coordinate care between organizations and facilitate sharing of a patient’s clinical data, providing a more holistic view of a patient to each provider.
  • We believe this network will make our community’s health care more accessible and affordable, a vital goal for us as the nation’s health care economy transitions to more value-based care models. 

New Shared Services building — approved

  • The 152,000 square foot structure will be located at 197 E. Caroline Street (corner of Club Center Drive and Caroline).
  • About 650 employees will work there; departments include information services, information technology, risk management, environmental health and safety, and talent management services.
  • Construction on the $41.1 million facility will begin before the end of the year, with completion in early 2018 and occupancy set for mid-2018.

One Loma Linda finance changes — reported

  • Two financial calendars exist within the organizations that make up Loma Linda University Health — one operating on a calendar basis and one following a fiscal year timeframe. We are moving to a single fiscal year calendar and accounting system, with a target date of July 1, 2017, for full implementation.
  • This move is the financial component of the One Loma Linda initiative, which began through actions by the Special Constituency Session of April 2015, creating Loma Linda University Health out of the LLUAHSC organization.
  • Once it is implemented, Loma Linda University Health will be able to better report and manage its finances across the entire enterprise. The move will also result in some cost savings.
  • Because of the intense need for financial details related to our recent bond financing, this transition was delayed until the bond issue was complete.
]]>
Thu, 08 Sep 2016 13:49:51 -0700
4264:27592 <![CDATA[Free grant-writing workshop coming up]]> Heather Reifsnyder The School of Public Health at Loma Linda University is offering a complimentary two-day workshop on successful grant writing. It is free to all faculty and staff at Loma Linda University Health.

The workshop will take place Sept. 19 and 20 from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in Nichol Hall room 2011.

Albin Grohar, PhD, will share his expertise from more than 25 years in the field of grant writing. He is executive director of philanthropy at Loma Linda University Health.

Participants will discover novel funding opportunities and develop their grant-writing skills for writing winning applications.

The day’s topics will include:

• Effective funding source research
• Discerning “suspects” and true grant prospects
• Patterns in private sector funding
• Approaching and communicating with potential funding sources
• Proposal expectations – 10 crucial questions
• Proposal writing: concept and style
• Writing goals and objectives
• Budgeting
• Grant award/denial follow up
• Reporting 

To learn more and register, visit publichealth.llu.edu/practice/grant-writing or call 909-558-4595. 

]]>
Thu, 08 Sep 2016 13:30:00 -0700
4264:27478 <![CDATA[There is power in a story]]> Kathy McMillan Because of your great compassion you did not abandon them in the wilderness. By day the pillar of cloud did not fail to guide them on their path… For forty years you sustained them in the wilderness; they lacked nothing, their clothes did not wear out nor did their feet become swollen. Nehemiah 9:19, 21

I was 21 years old, just getting ready to spend my last summer at home before graduating from nursing school. My first day home, while out running errands, I found myself struggling after running into an old boyfriend.

Not wishing to keep that wound fresh all summer, I headed out to the back yard where my mom was picking berries. “I’m not sure if I should be here this summer,” I began, and then explained who I had just seen. She understood my concerns and asked if there was any way I could find a job in Loma Linda. I laughed. I had no marketable skills; it was mid-June and I only had three months before school started again. At that very moment, my sister called to me from the house, telling me I had a phone call. It was a job offer from a pastor at Loma Linda University Church. His secretary had just resigned and he needed someone to cover until they could find a permanent replacement.  

I cannot tell that story without an incredible sense of awe and adoration. At the very moment I needed it, God provided a solution. To this day, when I find myself a bit discouraged, I remember that story and smile. I haven’t had many dramatic moments in my life where I absolutely knew God intervened, but I have this one and it’s enough. 

There is power in telling a story. John Gottman, a pioneer in relationship science, has studied married couples for years and has become very adept at predicting marriages that will survive. He says that how couples meet is not important, but how they tell the story of that meeting indicates how strong the relationship is. Couples who recount the details with joy and laughter do much better over the course of their marriage.

Perhaps that principle applies to how we tell stories about God’s providence. Maybe our best worship is simply recounting stories of what God has done. As we tell a story and remember the details, our wavering faith will be bolstered and our hope restored. 

As the Jews stood worshiping God after the building of the walls of Jerusalem, they listened as the leaders prayed, recounting the incredible deeds of God. In a sense, they were sharing their story with God -- reciting the details. They thanked God for the pillar of cloud and fire; they talked about the miracle of clothes that didn’t wear out and feet that remained strong -- even after 40 years of walking in the desert. It is likely that their faith was strengthened by the retelling of that familiar story in prayer. 

In one of her most memorable quotes, Ellen White, a co-founder of Loma Linda University Health, states, “We have nothing to fear for the future, except as we shall forget the way the Lord has led us, and His teaching in our past history.” Life Sketches, 196. 

We have nothing to fear. Go find someone and tell them a story!

]]>
Thu, 25 Aug 2016 10:04:43 -0700
4264:27484 <![CDATA[Enjoy an extended Labor Day holiday]]> Nancy Yuen A bit of trivia: the first day of autumn is just over 30 days away and there are only 128 days left in 2016. That’s about 3,106 hours until 2017!

This year, Monday, Sept. 5, is Labor Day.

In order to accommodate employee requests and reduce costs, Loma Linda University Health administrative offices will close a day early, Sept. 2, the Friday before Labor Day weekend. The extended holiday will affect LLUMC, LLUCH, LLUBMC, LLUMC-Murrieta and LLUSS; all clinical departments will retain their normal holiday schedules and staffing. The revised holiday schedule includes LLU administrative and support offices; university clinical and student support departments will retain their normal holiday schedules and staffing. 

With this schedule change, all benefit eligible hourly employees will be provided the option of using either paid leave or unpaid “budget hours” to cover the regularly scheduled hours for these additional days off.  

If an employee elects to use budget hours to cover this time off, the employee will not be paid for these hours but will receive full benefit accruals and maintain benefit eligibility. Note that budget hours will only be available for the additional days when departments are closed, not the regularly scheduled holidays. 

If an hourly employee wants to be paid for these days when offices are closed, the employee should submit a paid leave calendar request through the API system using the “PDL” code. If an employee wants to save paid leave and take time off without pay, the employee should apply the budget time “BGT” code to cover the time off on the days indicated above.

Budget time does not apply to salaried employees. Salaried employees are expected to use paid leave to cover the additional time off. If a salaried employee does not have adequate paid leave to cover a recognized holiday or the extra days described above, the system will automatically allow the leave balance to go in the negative. If a salaried employee is needed at work on these days, their time should be reported as a salary day of work.

If you have any questions about this schedule change, please contact your supervisor.

 

]]>
Thu, 25 Aug 2016 10:42:37 -0700
4264:27480 <![CDATA[An invitation to a red carpet event: a viewing party for 'Rough Beginning' ]]> Nancy Yuen This year, Loma Linda University Health Life advancement films earned an Emmy® Award in the health/science program category for the “Rough Beginning,” episode of Life on the Line. The award was presented at the 42nd National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences, Annual Pacific Southwest Emmy Awards, in June.

A viewing party featuring the award-winning episode will be held Tuesday, Aug. 30, in rooms 1830/1832 at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital. The viewings will take place from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Show times are: 

  • 7:30 – 8:00 a.m.
  • 8:00 - 8:30 a.m. 
  • 11:30 a.m – 12:00 p.m.
  • 12:00 - 12:30 p.m.
  • 12:30 – 1:00 p.m. 
  • 1:00 – 1:30 p.m. 
 

Plan now to attend; this is a great opportunity to see how your work at Loma Linda University makes a difference. Seating is first come, first served; there will be complimentary popcorn, and an Emmy® photo booth where participants may take a selfie with an Emmy® and post on social media with the hashtag #LifeontheLine.

]]>
Thu, 25 Aug 2016 10:19:31 -0700
4264:27498 <![CDATA[In memoriam: Samuel Soret]]> Contributed report Long-time faculty member of the School of Public Health, Samuel Soret, PhD, MPH, passed away from a heart attack while on a trip to Spain Tuesday, Aug. 23, 2016.

A prayer and remembrance service for Soret, attended by colleagues and friends, was held in the Nichol Hall rotunda at noon on Wednesday. During the service, Soret was remembered as a beloved colleague, professor, mentor and friend.

Soret faithfully served the School of Public Health for 21 years, most recently as associate dean for research and executive director of the Center for Community Resilience.

Funeral services will be held Friday, Aug. 26, at 1:00 p.m. in his hometown of Calahorra, Spain, at the local Seventh-day Adventist Church.

Joan Sabate, MD, DrPH, executive director, Center for Nutrition, Lifestyle & Disease Prevention, School of Public Health, is in Spain and plans to attend and participate, representing Soret’s colleagues and friends. The burial will be in Spain.

“Each of us grieves not only for the passing of a tremendous individual,” says Helen Hopp Marshak, PhD, dean of the school, “but also for the loss his family suffers."

Hopp Marshak's office is collecting memories of Dr. Sam Soret and will pass them along to family as well as remember his life. Written memories may be sent to sphdean@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 25 Aug 2016 13:36:40 -0700
4264:27492 <![CDATA[Leadership announcement – spiritual life and mission]]> Larry Becker Randy Roberts, DMin, has accepted the position of vice president for spiritual life and mission for Loma Linda University Health. Roberts has contributed to this organization’s spiritual growth for a number of years, having served as the senior pastor of the Loma Linda University Church since 2000. He will continue to hold his pastoral position along with this new administrative role.

Roberts is already playing a key role in the implementation of Loma Linda University Health’s Spiritual Plan. He will continue to fine-tune existing mission priorities and develop new ones as he helps Loma Linda University Health come to a greater clarity of our spiritual purpose. He also will spearhead our endeavors to weave faith and health together, and plans to reach out to and invite faith communities beyond our campus to participate with us.

Carla Gober-Park is the new assistant vice president for spiritual life and mission. She is currently director for Loma Linda University Health’s Center for Spiritual Life and Wholeness, a position she will continue to hold along with this new administrative appointment.

Gober-Park first joined Loma Linda University Medical Center as a nurse in 1983. Since then she has held a number of spiritual care positions. At the same time she has earned MPH and MS degrees from Loma Linda University, and a PhD in religious studies from Emory University.

Roberts and Gober-Park are committed to deepening the ways faith is integrated into all we do throughout our organization. Please give them a warm welcome to their new roles.

]]>
Thu, 25 Aug 2016 12:54:51 -0700
4264:27471 <![CDATA[Partnerships for progress in the 21st century]]> Courtney Haas Interested in learning more about partnerships between the United States and Mexico? Then you won’t want to miss the exciting and informative World Affairs Council Inland Southern California event taking place Thursday, Sept. 1, from 5:45 to 8 p.m. 

This free event features presentations by the recently elected, Salomón Rosas Ramírez, chief consul of Mexico in San Bernardino and Jorge Leyva, consul for political and economic affairs and will focus on partnerships for progress in the 21st century.

In a press release from the California State University—San Bernardino, Ramírez expressed his thoughts on the relationship between the U.S. and Mexico by saying, “Mexico and the United States share history and cultural heritage, even blood ties. We are part of a regional and binational community that every day becomes more prosperous.”

The event will be held in the Loma Linda University San Bernardino Campus—Community Room at 250 South G Street, San Bernardino, California 92410. In addition to the main event, registered attendees will enjoy refreshments and a facility tour of the new campus.

Click here to register before the Aug. 27 deadline.  

For additional information, email worldaffairscsusb@gmail.com or call 951-684-8263. 

]]>
Thu, 25 Aug 2016 09:37:13 -0700
4264:27482 <![CDATA[Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center: celebrating 25 years of help, healing and hope]]> Nancy Yuen In 2016, the Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center (LLUBMC) celebrates 25 years of providing help, healing and hope to those in our community.

The celebration of this landmark will be held Wednesday, August 31, from 2:30 to 5:00 p.m. in the Behavioral Medicine Center’s gymnasium.

Faculty and staff are encouraged to plan to attend this special event, which will trace the center’s history and will highlight how it continues to fulfill its mission: “…to participate in the healing ministry of Jesus Christ, ‘to make man whole,’ for people in need of emotional and behavioral restoration and to provide a stimulating clinical and research environment for the education of physicians and other health professionals.’”

The LLUBMC, which began providing care in 1991, has expanded its adult and youth partial hospitalization program to the Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center-Murrieta campus in 2011.

The Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center is located at 1710 Barton Road, Redlands, CA 92373.

]]>
Thu, 25 Aug 2016 10:33:34 -0700
4264:27476 <![CDATA[Happy Birthday, Dr. Bailey]]> Courtney Haas  

Whether you’ve been a member of the Loma Linda community your entire life or you’re still a bit new to the area and Loma Linda University Health, nearly everyone has heard stories of Leonard Bailey, MD.

From pioneering infant heart transplantation to performing countless lifesaving procedures at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital, Dr. Bailey has impacted the lives of nearly all who know him.

Dr. Bailey has helped others celebrate many birthdays, now we would like to celebrate his birthday Sunday, Aug. 28. As a part of the Build Hope campaign, a virtual event will be held from 1 to 4 p.m.

Your birthday wishes will be hand delivered to him. For more information on how you can help build hope in honor of Dr. Bailey visit http://bit.ly/drbaileybdaynews.

 

 

How to join in the celebration 

Click here for detailed information.

On Sunday, the virtual birthday party will be held on a Facebook event page at bit.ly/drbaileyvirtualbdayparty. There will be lots of fun and games for all ages!

#GiveVision2020 #DrBaileyBday

 

]]>
Thu, 25 Aug 2016 09:54:28 -0700
4264:27552 <![CDATA[A great benefit: iLLUtech @ the Campus Store ]]> Contributed report The “Add Beats to Your Summer” campaign, available through 6:30 p.m. today is just one special benefit for Loma Linda University Health employees, staff.

Throughout the year, iLLUtech at the Campus Store, an Apple-authorized vendor, provides special offers and events for Loma Linda University Health faculty, staff, students and volunteers in addition to Apple’s educational discount.

Anyone who is employed by the University or Loma Linda Health may purchase Apple computers at the company’s educational discount, according to Vincent Garcia, manager, computer sales.

The most recent special offer is the summer Beats promotion. Due to the revised holiday schedule, today, Sept. 1, is the last day the offer will be available. The store is open until 6:30 p.m. today and will be closed Friday. Sept. 2 and Monday, Sept. 5.

The promotion offers a free wireless headphone with the purchase of an eligible Mac or iPad Pro at iLLU Tech Store, and free a pair of Beats Solo2 Wireless Headphones with the purchase of any Mac computer. Also offered is a free Powerbeats2 Wireless Headphones with the purchase of an iPad Pro. Please contact the store for complete details.

As an Apple-authorized campus store, iLLU tech offers products including Macs, iPods, and iPads. Anyone who is employed by the University or Loma Linda Health may now purchase Apple computers at the company’s educational discount, according to Vincent Garcia, manager, computer sales.

For more information or to learn more about pricing on other one-day offers, call Vincent Garcia, Campus Store computer manager, at (909) 558-4129 or on campus at ext. 44129.

]]>
Thu, 01 Sep 2016 14:28:12 -0700
4264:27533 <![CDATA[Patient testimonial: Tucker Morgan]]> Advancement films Tucker Morgan reflects on how a Loma Linda University Health heart surgeon repaired his heart and how he and his wife are giving back to Loma Linda University Health.

Watch his story!

]]>
Wed, 31 Aug 2016 10:43:17 -0700
4264:27541 <![CDATA[Electric vehicle owners: ChargePoint stations now available ]]> Larry Kidder Loma Linda University Health employees and students now have access to 10 new electric vehicle (EV) parking spaces on the Loma Linda University Health campus. All are located in the patient parking structure (P3) on the corner of Barton Road and Campus Street.

Five new ChargePoint EV stations serve the 10 spaces—each with two charging cords. EV drivers swipe their ChargePoint cards, which link to online accounts created at www.chargepoint.com. 

The stations charge electric vehicles at a faster rate than the previous ones in the employee parking structure, using 220 volts versus 110. The older charging stations will be removed. 

“We appreciate your support for sharing the new stations with fellow EV drivers,” says Cori Stiles, manager of parking and traffic services. “Electric vehicles help save the environment, and to do our part, the stations were installed for your convenience.”

Electric vehicles may not park in the charging spots for more than four hours at a time. Students and employees are asked to move their vehicles back to their assigned lots after charging. Parking and traffic services staff will monitor the parking spaces and issue tickets to violators. 

For questions, contact parking and traffic services at 909-651-3025 (on-campus extension 53025) or at parking@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 01 Sep 2016 09:34:09 -0700
4264:27545 <![CDATA[Show support for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month]]> Larry Kidder The month of September highlights childhood cancer awareness. According to the American Childhood Cancer Organization website, nearly 16,000 children under the age of 21 are diagnosed with cancer each year, and about 3 out of every 4 will beat their illness. Help us build hope so that every child survives.

Meet Isabella, who is fighting leukemia at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital. Watch a brief video.

You can “build hope” in recognition of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month by visiting www.GiveVision2020.org and making a gift.

Or, you can share your story about why you support Childhood Awareness Month by creating your own giving page.

Donate your spare change as part of the Build Hope September Coin Drive by calling the LLU Children’s Hospital Foundation at 909-558-5370. 

You can also show your support for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month on social media by adding a special profile photo filter.

Through our Vision 2020 campaign, we are embarking on a journey to give hope, provide cures and save the lives of our youngest patients by building a new children's hospital tower.

]]>
Thu, 01 Sep 2016 12:55:54 -0700
4264:27548 <![CDATA[Pulling together]]> Dilys Brooks Now the leaders of the people lived in Jerusalem, but the rest of the people cast lots to bring one out of ten to live in Jerusalem, the holy city, while nine-tenths remained in the other cities. And the people blessed all the men who volunteered to live in Jerusalem. Nehemiah 11:1-2

At one time or another since the time we began our employment, we have received a request to volunteer to work overtime or participate in a project that was not in our work schedule. We were asked to do this in order to meet the goals of our department or company at a time when they most needed our support. 

When we are requested to work extra it leaves us with the sense that we have a choice in the matter at hand. On the other hand when we are mandated to work longer hours and our ability to choose is removed, feelings of frustration, annoyance and even anxiety persist.

The descendants of Abraham found themselves facing a challenge that they had not focused on as they were rebuilding the city walls. The project had been completed, but there remained the small matter of populating the city. The leaders themselves lived there, but most of the returned exiles were living comfortably in the surrounding cities.

How could they solve this problem? They could order people to move into the city as they had, but that might seem arbitrary and thoughtless. Here we find one of the challenges of leadership -- motivating stakeholders or employees to go above and beyond their expected commitments when a need arises.

Upon reading the first two verses of Nehemiah 11, we discover that people have decided to cast lots to determine who would populate the city of Jerusalem. This ‘casting of lots’ was a common and accepted practice to impartially choose individuals for a variety of things.

It was believed that the lot pronounced the will of God, which made this an acceptable process to make a decision as life changing as this one. The ten lots were cast representing ten families from each city. If the lot fell on you, your family was selected to move inside the city walls. The lots were cast and the people blessed all the men who volunteered to live in Jerusalem.

Covering a shift, floating to a new floor or department, temporarily accepting additional responsibilities to meet a deficit are all experiences that we are familiar with working at Loma Linda University Health. While we do not ‘cast lots’ to determine how these needs are met, we can choose whether or not to accept whatever is asked of us during critical times to meet the goals of our organization.

Though our acceptance of the added assignment may or may not provide us with remuneration, it does provide us with a sense that our contributions are vital to our team, department, school and organization. We can be sure that our leaders, managers, patients, clients and stakeholders are thankful for our willingness to go the extra mile. 

]]>
Thu, 01 Sep 2016 14:07:43 -0700
4264:27540 <![CDATA[Notes from the President: Finding Meaning]]> Richard Hart   September 2016
Finding Meaning

“Richard

It has been two years now since the Seattle, Washington-based company Payscale.com published results from their survey that ranked Loma Linda graduates at #1 in the nation when asked “Does your job make the world a better place?” The question was intended to assess meaning in life, and 91 percent of our grads said they believed they did make the world better, outpacing most other ranked universities by some distance.

I have puzzled over that survey ever since reading it. Who of our grads answered that question? How many? From which of our schools? Why did we do so well? How would this compare to 20 years ago, 50 years ago, or 50 years in the future? How important is it to find meaning in what you do? Is it the key to happiness, to a good job or advancement, or just a nice side benefit if you can find it? Is it something you should look for until you think you have found it, or wait for it to find you?

David Brooks, a New York Times columnist and on the faculty at Yale, is one of my favorite commentators on today’s world. You tend to like those who agree with your views, so let me admit that first. By his own admission, Brooks grew up in a liberal Jewish home in Greenwich, Connecticut. His parents sent him to a Christian primary school, where he began his exposure to other world views. Five years ago he set out to write his latest book, focused on “cognitive humility.” But a Christian colleague convinced him to morph that topic into “moral and spiritual humility.” That book, titled The Road to Character, was published in 2015. In it Brooks shares his journey of trying to understand our current culture, looking for its keys, its foundational characteristics, that explain who we are and why we behave the way we do.

In a talk to the Council of Christian Colleges and Universities recently, Brooks references the millennials, those born after 1980 who are now coming of age and starting to take their place in society. While highly respecting them as people, he says “they assume that the culture of expressive individualism is the eternal order of the universe and that meaning comes from being authentic to self. They have a combination of academic and career competitiveness and a lack of a moral and romantic vocabulary that has created a culture that is professional and not poetic, pragmatic and not romantic. The head is large, and the heart and soul are backstage. …To ask about the meaning of life is unprofessional.”

Tough words for a university professor dedicated to his students. As he has searched for an antidote to this situation, he has increasingly embraced Christian educational institutions as having a unique offering for today’s world. He goes on to say “you [Christian colleges] have what everybody else is desperate to have: a way of talking about and educating the human person in a way that integrates faith, emotion and intellect. Almost no other set of institutions in American society has that, and everyone wants It … for all of us, religious or secular, life doesn’t come from how well you keep your options open, but how well you close them off and realize a higher freedom.”  

And he closes with “What I’ve tried to describe is this task of helping young people build the commitments, the foundations of their lives. A lot of schools I go to do a great job at many things, but integrating faith, the spirit, the heart and the soul with the mind is not one of them. When I go to Christian colleges, that’s exactly what I see. That is the gift [your] institutions offer the wider culture. That gift is a gateway drug to the gift of the Almighty.”

A powerful endorsement, to be sure, of Christian institutions like Loma Linda, that believe their duty is exactly that – to encourage character development that resonates with these higher values. As I meet alumni across this country and around the world, they confirm this impact on their lives from this place, and are deeply grateful. What is the magic, the secret ingredient, that makes this happen? I am sure it varies as much as our students vary, but somewhere at the foundation is the concept of service to others. You cannot reach out in caring and compassion for another and not be changed yourself.

So that is why we continue to do what we do – encouraging involvement by our students and faculty to confront human need in its many forms. SACHS, SIMS, CAPS, CKC, Healthy Neighborhoods, San Bernardino Campus, and a myriad of other endeavors at Loma Linda are not co-curricular activities for spare moments. They are at the heart of our curricula, designed to call out the best in each of us. They provide “teachable moments” to form and solidify the kind of professionals who find meaning in all they do. May this “Loma Linda experience” live on for generations to come!

Cordially,

“Richard 

 

 

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

Office of the President, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350

Copyright © 2016 by Loma Linda University

llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 01 Sep 2016 09:11:32 -0700
4264:27579 <![CDATA[Wheelchair and walker collection drive next week]]> Briana Pastorino Loma Linda University Health PossAbilities is hosting a wheelchair collection drive benefiting Joni and Friends Wheels for the World on Friday, Sept. 16.

Any new or used non-electric wheelchairs, canes or walkers may be dropped off that Friday from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the PossAbilities office, 25455 Barton Rd., Suite 109A, Loma Linda.

Electric wheelchairs cannot be accepted due to the cost of transportation. Joni and Friends Wheels for the World will provide a tax donation receipt if requested.

PossAbilities was a contributor in helping Wheels for the World Inland Empire Chapter to celebrate collection of its 3,000th wheelchair in December 2015.

PossAbilities is a free, nonprofit, community outreach program to provide individuals of all ages with permanent physical disabilities support and resources to stay active and healthy in life. Loma Linda University Health has run this program since 2001. Visit www.teampossabilities.org to learn more.

Joni and Friends Wheels for the World, as part of its Christian ministry, provides free wheelchairs to children and adults affected by disability worldwide. The wheelchairs are collected nationwide and restored by inmates at correctional facilities across the country to like-new condition.

For more information, call 909-558-6384.

 

]]>
Thu, 08 Sep 2016 10:43:16 -0700
4264:27580 <![CDATA[Your blood could save a life -- blood drive next week]]> Nancy Yuen Whether the accident happens at 3:00 p.m. or 2:30 a.m., emergency department doors of Loma Linda University Medical Center in Loma Linda or Murrieta open and doctors and nurses immediately act, provide lifesaving care.

A multi-car freeway accident may result in several families dependent on blood donations made in the previous days to save their loved one, or a parent or grandparent rushed into emergency heart surgery will need blood that has been supplied by LifeStream donors.

Donors also provide blood needed for lifesaving transfusions for children battling cancer.

“Please give blood with LifeStream so others in our community in need can be cared for and comforted,” says Don Escalante, public relations specialist, LifeStream.

The next scheduled blood drives at Loma Linda University Health are:

Loma Linda University Health (Magan Hall): Tuesday, Sept. 13, 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta (hospital lobby): Wednesday, Sept. 14, 10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

According to Escalante, donors can give blood as often as every eight weeks.

While all blood types and donation types are needed, “We always keep our eye specifically on the blood type O-negative and platelet supply,” says Escalante. “Type O-negative blood in particular is needed at all times because type-O red blood cells can be given to any patient.”

Donors receive a card four to six weeks after their first donation on which their blood type is listed. “From that point forward, the card serves as ID each time they give blood with LifeStream,” says Escalante, “and it also is valuable to have on their person in the event they need an emergency transfusion.”

]]>
Thu, 08 Sep 2016 10:46:34 -0700
4264:27583 <![CDATA[Devotional -- Joy]]> Terry Swenson Editor’s note: As Loma Linda University Health continues a massive construction project to build the new Medical Center and Children’s Hospital towers, the chaplains invite members of the campus to pray and fast each Tuesday, asking for God’s guidance and wisdom as we continue to grow. Below is a devotional from a series in News of the Week based on the biblical book of Nehemiah, in which Nehemiah faced a massive building project of his own.

***

Many sacrifices were offered on that joyous day, for God had given the people cause for great joy. The women and children also participated in the celebration, and the joy of the people of Jerusalem could be heard far away. –Nehemiah 12:43 

The work on the walls of Jerusalem was finished! The preparations for the festivities marking that accomplishment were completed. The impossible had happened. The dream had become a reality. The lack of resources was filled. The people had completed a herculean task that no one, not even themselves, had thought could be accomplished. Yet there they were! Four walls standing tall and strong! And today? Today was a day to celebrate! As I read this passage in Nehemiah, three words jumped out at me that all of us who work for Loma Linda University Health could relate to.

The first word was “sacrifices.” As you become acquainted with the history of Loma Linda, you will read and hear stories of men and women who were more than willing to make sacrifices of their time and means and lives to “continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ” in the halls of medical care and academics. Every day we are surrounded by men and women making the same kind of sacrifices. Doing things that matter and transform lives always requires sacrifices — both personally and professionally. We willingly sacrifice to a greater good or a purpose greater than ourselves

The second word was “joyous.” Although we may be making sacrifices, are we being joyous? Work is hard. That’s why it is called work! However, any burden is lightened when we have joy. A mother forgets the pains of delivery for the joy of holding her newborn. A surgeon forgets the tedious, taut hours of delicate surgery when the patient pulls through and the procedure is a success. The same holds true for any position you and I hold. Are you a joy-filled person? Each day do you take moments to savor your joy? Joy for being employed. Joy for making a difference. Joy for being alive! Share that joy with your fellow Loma Linda University Health-ers!

The third word was “given” — specifically “God had given.” This is the most powerful of the three. In fact, according to the passage, it is what empowered the other two. It is such a trite thing to say, but we are all so busy. I am not about to condemn or correct you for your busyness. However, what I do want to talk about are the consequences of our busyness. Busyness blocks us from taking time to see God and His actions in our lives. He gives us life. He gives us the resources to face the things of life. He lives life with us. Take a moment and see that He is good! Be joyous and celebrate!

]]>
Thu, 08 Sep 2016 10:50:06 -0700
4264:27585 <![CDATA[Lowell Bock and Lottie Ziprick remembered]]> Lowell Bock passed away Aug. 22 in Loma Linda at age 93. He served on the Loma Linda University Board of Trustees during the 1970s and 1980s, and served as vice chair of the board during the 1980s. Several significant issues were dealt with during his time on the board, including the decision to form Loma Linda University Medical Center as a separate corporation (1980) and the decision to separate from La Sierra University and become an academic health sciences center (1990). Elder Bock was a vice president of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

He is survived by his wife, Merlo: his son, Allan Bock; his daughters, Colleen Laudenslager and Janel Isaeff; five grandchildren and one great-grandson. A graveside service is scheduled at Montecito Memorial Park on Sunday, Sept. 11, at 10 a.m. A reception will follow at University Mobile Estates clubhouse.

Lottie Ziprick died Aug. 17 in Loma Linda at age 101. She first joined the College of Medical Evangelists (now Loma Linda University) staff in Los Angeles in 1940 as a part-time secretary. She served as secretary to three presidents of Loma Linda: Percy Magan, Walter Macpherson and George Harding, until 1953, when she accepted a position at the UCLA School of Medicine. She then served in Takoma Park, Maryland, at Columbia Union College until 1965, when she returned to Loma Linda. She worked at Loma Linda as assistant to the vice president for academic administration until her retirement in May 1983. Ziprick was responsible for doing the research and creating the first faculty handbook for Loma Linda University.

She is survived by nephews Douglas, Robert and William Ziprick and Stephen Doug Moline and nieces Nancy Hansen and Jean Guilsoy. Her memorial service will take place Sunday, Sept. 25, at 2 p.m. in the Loma Linda University Church.

]]>
Thu, 08 Sep 2016 10:55:38 -0700
4264:27587 <![CDATA[Construction to begin on a new Shared Services building ]]> Susan Onuma What is now a plot of vacant land located between the 101 and 125 Loma Linda University Health administration buildings (on the corner of Club Center Drive and Caroline Street), San Bernardino, will be the sight of a new 152,000 square foot building that will house several departments of Loma Linda University Shared Services, the corporation that encompasses support departments for Loma Linda University Health.

Construction is scheduled to begin on the new facility before the end of 2016, and its estimated project cost is $41.1 million.

The Shared Services departments to be housed are information services, risk management, environmental health and safety, and human resource management, accommodating approximately 650 employees.

Brad Johnson, superintendent representative in the office of construction and architectural services, says, “I feel so privileged to be able to work on another project that will contribute to the mission of the institution.”

From start to finish, the shell and core of the building are scheduled for completion during the first quarter of 2018, followed by tenant improvements. Occupancy is slated for mid-2018.

]]>
Thu, 08 Sep 2016 11:14:30 -0700
4264:27360 <![CDATA[Devotional -- Unfailing love]]> Terry Swenson Editor’s note: As Loma Linda University Health continues a massive construction project to build the new Medical Center and Children’s Hospital towers, the chaplains invite members of the campus to pray and fast each Tuesday, asking for God’s guidance and wisdom as we continue to grow. Below is a devotional from a series in News of the Week based on the biblical book of Nehemiah, in which Nehemiah faced a massive building project of his own.

***  

“They refused to obey and did not remember the miracles you had done for them. Instead, they became stubborn and appointed a leader to take them back to their slavery in Egypt. But you are a God of forgiveness, gracious and merciful, slow to become angry, and rich in unfailing love. You did not abandon them …” –Nehemiah 9:17

In our passage today, Nehemiah proclaims that God gives unfailing love. Unfailing. How are we even supposed to conceive of what that is and what it would feel like to be loved like that? Things fail us all the time in our lives. It may be our relationships, our dreams, our best efforts, our plans — as well thought out as they may be. Even our ever-present technology that we depend on to work and communicate glitches at the most pressing and inopportune times.

What happens when these key components of our lives let us down? We do everything that is within our power to prevent it from ever happening again! We make back up plans. We make back ups for our back up plans! We avoid things and people that might fail us and let us down. We steel ourselves for the “inevitable” by building up walls in our minds and our hearts that will keep the pain and the hurt and the disappointment at bay … but it doesn’t work.

At our core, we still feel these things. Gradually the walls that we built to protect us turn into walls that imprison us. If all of the things that we see, hear and touch can potentially fail us, how in the world can we trust a God who we cannot see? Two thoughts. The first is that the statement that we cannot see God is not true. Perhaps it is because we aren’t looking at Him correctly. Or maybe what we are looking for is the problem.

Throughout Scripture, we are promised that we can see Him in the intricacies and interactions of the created world around us. Do we stay still enough and attentive enough to see? We are promised that we will see and hear Him in the words of His Word — the Bible. Do we tilt our ears to hear what they say to our heads and hearts? Jesus said, “If you’ve seen me, you’ve seen the Father.” He also applied that to those who follow Him. How we love and live with those around us shows them the God they seek to see.

Second thought. We cannot see and hear and experience God’s unfailing love and grace and mercy and forgiveness unless we open ourselves up to it. Jesus is inviting you to give Him a chance. “Look! Here I stand at the door and knock. If you hear me calling and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal as friends.” (Revelation 3:20)

So how do these things live and breathe in the space you are in at Loma Linda University Health? Are you willing to give God a chance? Will you open the door just a crack and give it a try? Are you willing to make this a place of trust, forgiveness, mercy and grace by extending those things to your office, your class, your patients, your customers, your students, yourself? When you’ve been loved, you love back.

Terry Swenson, DMin
Campus chaplain
Loma Linda University

]]>
Thu, 18 Aug 2016 14:00:55 -0700
4264:27356 <![CDATA[Seeking volunteers for A Walk to Remember]]> Heather Reifsnyder More than 200 volunteers are needed for the 11th annual “A Walk to Remember” event this October at Loma Linda University Health. A Walk to Remember is a memorial walk and service held in honor of National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month.

Volunteering at the event is its own reward, according to previous volunteers Meghan Clark and Tiffany Robinson.

"I have had the privilege of volunteering for A Walk to Remember for the past seven years and have met some amazing individuals while helping families in need,” Clark says. “Seeing families given the opportunity to remember and honor their loss is a very humbling and gratifying experience.”

Robinson says, "Volunteering for the past six years at A Walk to Remember has been a tremendously rewarding experience for me. I have had the privilege of working as a first point of contact for families as they arrive at the event.  Having the opportunity to lend a sense of warmth, compassion and sensitivity to the guests as they prepare to honor their loss has been extremely gratifying.”

Held across the nation each October, A Walk to Remember offers individuals opportunities to navigate through the difficult tragedy of losing a baby (pregnancy loss, stillbirth and infant loss of any kind).

Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital has participated since 2005. The year’s event will take place Sunday, Oct. 9, at Loma Linda University Church from 3:30 p.m. until about 5:30 p.m.

There are five different volunteer shifts available: 
• 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• 12:30 to 4 p.m.
• 1:30 to 4:30 p.m.
• 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. or 
• 5 to 8 p.m. 

If interested in volunteering, please visit www.lluh.org/AWTRvolunteer.

For additional questions, please contact Lindsay Daguerressar at LDaguerressar@llu.edu or 909-558-8022.

]]>
Thu, 18 Aug 2016 13:57:11 -0700
4264:27341 <![CDATA[Survey -- Benefits Fairs]]> Courtney Haas Open enrollment is just around the corner in November for several entities of Loma Linda University Health (Medical Center, Children’s Hospital, Behavioral Medicine Center, Shared Services and University Health Care).

With it comes Benefits Fairs. These events are focused on providing employees the opportunity to increase awareness and knowledge of the many benefits that Loma Linda has to offer.

With this focus, human resource management is reaching out to you, the employee, to learn how they can improve on the already existing Benefits Fairs. The survey deadline is Monday, Aug. 22, at midnight.

Through the link below, please take a few minutes to complete the following survey and provide feedback on how to make this great event even better.

https://lluhengagement.wufoo.com

For more information, please contact Dianna Montgomery at dmontgomery@llu.edu or call ext. 14050.

Loma Linda University employees should stay tuned for details about their open enrollment and Benefits Fair in spring 2017.

 

]]>
Thu, 18 Aug 2016 11:51:59 -0700
4264:27358 <![CDATA[Murrieta listed among 'Most Wired' hospitals]]> Larry Kidder For the second consecutive year, Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta is among the hospitals nationwide to be included in Hospital and Health Care Magazine’s 2016 Most Wired list.

The list was released in the July 2016 issue. According to the magazine, “The annual Most Wired survey is designed to measure the level of IT [information technology] adoption in U.S. hospitals and health systems, and serve as a tool for hospital and health leadership to map their IT strategic plans.”

The website goes on to explain that Health Forum, an American Hospital Association company, oversees the collection and analysis of Most Wired data, developing industry information technology benchmarks based on data practices for operational, financial and clinical performance in health care delivery systems. 

The 2016 list includes hospitals and health care systems “that are ramping up their efforts to stop hackers, and are also working to boost their capabilities in telehealth and population health.” 

To be considered for the annual list, U.S. hospitals and health systems undergo an extensive screening process that includes an 18-page questionnaire.

Peter Baker, vice president for operations at LLU Medical Center – Murrieta, says, “It is an honor to be recognized as one of the Most Wired hospitals. We are constantly striving to ensure our patients have access to the most current technology for their treatment.”

He adds, “We believe that the best technology often leads to quicker results and better outcomes for patients and their families. We are excited to continue our pursuit of the highest standards of care for our community.” 

LLUMC – Murrieta is a full-service acute care hospital with 106 licensed beds. Visit its website to learn more about the hospital, which is celebrating its five-year anniversary in 2016.

]]>
Thu, 18 Aug 2016 13:59:05 -0700
4264:27342 <![CDATA[Blue Cut fire spreads to over 30,000 acres]]> Courtney Haas These past few days of summer just got hotter with the addition of the rapidly spreading brush fire named Blue Cut fire.

Burning in the San Bernardino National Forest, the fire started at approximately 10:36 a.m. on August 16 near Cajon Pass, just west of Interstate 15. The fire grew throughout the day and night to cover more than 30,000 acres, causing road closures, evacuations and growing health concerns.

As of early Thursday, Aug. 18, the fire was only at 4 percent containment. This led California Governor Jerry Brown to declare a state of emergency for the fast-moving wildfire.

Progress fighting fire

The fire is currently 31,689 acres with 1,584 personnel on scene. With 152 engines, 18 crews, eight air tankers, two large air tankers and eight helicopters, additional firefighters and equipment have been ordered and will be responding directly to the fire. Two days after the initial flames, this brush fire has affected an estimated 34,500 homes and 82,640 people with evacuation warnings.

Mandatory evacuations

  • The entire community of Wrightwood north of Highway 138
  • Wrightwood from San Bernardino County Line to Jackson Lake
  • West of Interstate 15, and West of Highway 395 and West of Summit Valley
  • South of Bear Valley Road and East of Caughlin Road.
  • East of Sheep Creek, South of Phelan Road and West of Green Road, including the Desert Front Road area
  • Lone Pine Canyon
  • Swarthout Canyon
  • West Cajon Valley
  • Lytle Creek Canyon

Road openings and closures

Open

  • Interstate 15 southbound is now open
  • On Thursday, August 18 at 10:15 p.m. the Interstate 215 and Interstate 15 northbound connector will re-open. Shortly after this the Interstate 15 northbound will be fully open through Cajon Pass.

Closed

  • Southbound 395 closed at Joshua
  • Highway 138 has been closed from Interstate 15 to Highway 2
  • State Route 2 closed from LA County Line to the 138
  • Highway 138 closed between County Line to Highway 173
  • Old Cajon Boulevard north of Devore
  • Lytle Creek at Glen Helen
  • Beekley Road from Phelan Road to Highway 138
  • 15 Northbound at Interstate 215
  • 15 Southbound at Ranchero

School closures

Closures for Thursday, August 18, 2016

  • Adelanto Elementary School District
  • Apply Valley Unified School District
  • Barstow Unified School District
  • Helendale School District
  • Kimbark Elementary School
  • Oro Grande School District
  • SBCUSD bus operations in the Devore area only
  • Silver Valley Unified School District
  • Victor Elementary School District
  • Victor Valley Union High School District  

Closures for the rest of the week

  • Hesperia Unified School District
  • Snowline Unified School District

Hospital closures

  • Kaiser Permanente Clinic located at 14011 Park Avenue, Victorville California 92392 was closed on Wednesday and possibly Thursday. For additional information please call 888-750-0036.

Shelters

  • A care and reception center has been opened at the Jessie Turner Community Center located at 15556 Summit Avenue, Fontana California 92336.
  • Sultana High School has become an overnight shelter. Located at 17311 Sultana Street, Hesperia California 92345. 

Animal shelters

  • Evacuees can take small animals to the Apply Valley Animal Shelter located at 22131 Powhatan Road, Apple Valley California 92308.
  • Evacuees can take large and small animals to the Devore Animal Shelter located at 19777 Shelter Way, San Bernardino California, 92407.
  • Large and small animals can also be taken to San Bernardino County Fairgrounds located at 14800 7th Street, Victorville California 92395.

Air quality

The South Coast Air Quality Management District issued a smoke advisory to be in effect through Thursday morning. Areas of direct smoke impacts in the South Coast Air Basin and unhealthy air quality will likely include:

  • Portions of the Northwest San Bernardino Valley, especially near Devore
  • Portions of the Central San Bernardino Mountains
  • Portions of the West San Bernardino Mountains
  • Portions of the Central San Bernardino Valley

Public information

  • U.S. Forest Service public/media information line: 909-383-5688
  • U.S. Forest Service public/media website: http://inciweb.nwcg.gov

 

]]>
Thu, 18 Aug 2016 11:54:34 -0700
4264:27352 <![CDATA[Joint Commission survey a success]]> Good news was the result of the Joint Commission survey of Loma Linda University Medical Center over five days beginning Aug. 7. Eight surveyors inspected health care-related processes of all entities under the Medical Center license (including East Campus and Surgical Hospital).

The Commission identified several areas of exemplary practice, including nursing care plans, diabetes and dialysis care, tissue management, antibiotic stewardship, pharmacy, proton treatment, titration practices, nutrition and rehabilitation.

The surveyors were also complimentary of staff and physician engagement, professionalism, commitment to mission and excellence of care. 

Trevor Wright, MHA, chief operating officer, says, “This survey was a validation of the dedication of our employees and physicians, without whom the excellent care provided to our patients, as exemplified in the best practices discovered by the Joint Commission, could not be achieved.”

]]>
Thu, 18 Aug 2016 13:52:18 -0700
4264:27303 <![CDATA[Devotional -- Choosing wonder]]> Kathy McMillan Editor’s note: As Loma Linda University Health continues a massive construction project to build the new Medical Center and Children’s Hospital towers, the chaplains invite members of the campus to pray and fast each Tuesday, asking for God’s guidance and wisdom as we continue to grow. Below is a devotional from a series in News of the Week based on the biblical book of Nehemiah, in which Nehemiah faced a massive building project of his own.

*** 

Blessed be your glorious name, and may it be exalted above all blessing and praise. You alone are the Lord. You made the heavens, even the highest heavens, and all their starry host, the earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them. You give life to everything, and the multitudes of heaven worship you. Nehemiah 9:5-6

Looking to the west just after sunset last Friday, there was a spectacular view of Jupiter nearly dancing with a tiny, crescent moon. It was breathtaking!

We have all experienced moments when we can do nothing more than stand in awe as we absorb the beauty around us. Some of these are predictable — the first glimpse of the Yosemite Valley coming out of the tunnel, an aerial view of the Grand Canyon, Old Faithful spouting off, the Canadian Rockies behind Moraine Lake and so many more.

But the works of God are not only seen when we are expecting it. His lavish love brings such joy when we are surprised by beauty: a glimpse of a rainbow through the storm clouds, the first bean persuading its way through the soft dirt in the spring, the scent of honeysuckle wafting through pasture land. God consistently provides an abundant display of His goodness.

As Nehemiah and the Jews finished their work of rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem, they were overcome with God’s goodness and couldn’t help but praise Him. The Levites stood before the people and said, “Stand up and praise the Lord your God, who is from everlasting to everlasting.” Nehemiah 9:5

Giving thanks is often a natural response to a pleasant event or happening. But we are in danger of becoming complacent and losing our wonder. With repeated exposure, we sometimes become accustomed to beauty or we may simply be too busy to notice. Both options are regrettable.

Gratitude is a discipline that we can develop. Rather than complaining about circumstances, we can search for some glimmer of goodness for which to be thankful. Creating a gratitude journal can be an effective way of reminding ourselves to be thankful. While it may seem elementary at first, we can train ourselves to begin looking for the positive and, in the process, change our entire outlook for the better.

Kathy McMillan, MA
Director
Employee spiritual care
Loma Linda University Medical Center

]]>
Thu, 11 Aug 2016 11:31:08 -0700
4264:27309 <![CDATA[Time to get unstuck]]> Esmerelda Guerrero Is it time for you to get unstuck?

Do you read success stories and think, "What made them so successful? How come I am still stuck?" Join the Unstuck Program at Loma Linda University Health and learn how to move forward.

The Unstuck Program is a cognitive educational group for people struggling to make healthy changes. The program will help you set goals, make a plan and stay motivated.

To register and receive additional information, contact the Living Whole Wellness Program by emailing livingwhole@llu.edu or calling ext. 14007.

The eight-week program starts Thursday, Sept. 1, at 5:30 p.m. Register by Friday, Aug. 26.  Space is limited.

Classes will take place at:

LLUAHSC Services 101 Building
101 E. Redlands Blvd.
San Bernardino, CA 92408

For more information, visit http://myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole/unstuck/.

Note: The Unstuck Program is open to Loma Linda University Health employees and covered spouses; the program is free when attendance requirements are met. 

]]>
Thu, 11 Aug 2016 11:42:54 -0700
4264:27307 <![CDATA[Revised holiday schedule offers more days off]]> During the past few years, Loma Linda University Health has received a large number of vacation requests from employees who want to extend their holiday time around Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s. 

To accommodate such requests and reduce costs, administrative and support departments will close the following extra days. This applies to Loma Linda University Medical Center, Children’s Hospital, Behavioral Medicine Center, Shared Services and LLU Medical Center – Murrieta.

• Friday, Sept. 2, before the scheduled Labor Day holiday on Monday, Sept. 5
• Wednesday, Nov. 23, before the Thanksgiving Day holidays on Thursday and Friday
• Friday, Dec. 23, before the Christmas holiday observed on Monday, Dec. 26
• Friday, Dec. 30, before the New Year’s holiday observed on Monday, Jan. 2

This revised schedule will allow all employees in administrative and support departments to enjoy extended holiday weekends with their families. All clinical departments will retain their normal holiday schedules and staffing. 

If you have any questions about how this schedule change will impact you or your department, please contact your supervisor.

]]>
Thu, 11 Aug 2016 11:40:44 -0700
4264:27305 <![CDATA[Don't get caught in the phisher's net]]> Paul Medema Recently, a phishing email made it into the system at Loma Linda University Health.

Unfortunately, a few people clicked the link in this malicious email. The link in this mail took the user to a website that convinced him or her to enter their username and password. This information was then used by the phishers to gain control of the user’s email account through our Webmail application.

The phishers then unleashed a massive storm of spam email that went out on the internet. Other email systems saw this storm of spam mail coming from Loma Linda University Health and, in an automated process, blocked all email coming from the organization. This led to the @llu.edu email domain being put on several blacklists. Many companies and institutions follow these blacklists and use them to help protect their own email users. Once this happens, the email flow comes to a halt and many outbound emails are not delivered to intended recipients. Getting an email domain removed from the blacklist is a long and tedious process that can take several days.

How can you spot malicious email?

There are usually a few small things that show up in a malicious email to give it away. Often there will be poor English grammar and/or spelling mistakes. Often there will be an overt attempt to make you think it is a legitimate email; there will be copyright statements or a signature line that says it is from Microsoft or another legitimate-sounding company.

Often the malicious email will have a call to action that claims dire results if you fail to comply. These are statements such as, “Click here to update your account or it will be deleted.”

Loma Linda University Health will never send out an email that threatens account deactivation if you fail to comply.

Loma Linda makes every effort to not include clickable links when sending mails about passwords or accounts. Occasionally there will be a link in an email, but it will be thoroughly explained.

Please only change your password by going to the Swap system, found at the MyLLU portal.

If an email has a link in it, think twice, be smart; don’t just click it because it is there. Think about what the link is supposed to be doing. Does it say to change your password? Again, Loma Linda University Health does not do that.

Skeptical hover

When it comes to following links in your e-mail, you need to be a link skeptic. Many of the scams and viruses on the internet today are pushed out through links in emails that appear to be legitimate but are in fact carefully crafted to fool most users. This is done with the help of the programing language of web pages (HTML) that allows for links to show up as words instead of complicated internet addresses. 

For example, a link can be displayed as MyLLU or as its URL, https://myllu.llu.edu/home/students/.

The first one is easier to read and has more meaning to the user visiting a web page.

But, any words at all can be used to fool users about the link those words actually point to, such as “Click here for free cash.”

In most modern browsers, you can hover your mouse over the words of link, and it will display the true destination of the link in the lower left corner of the browser window.

A real-life example of a link not going to where you would expect was found in a legitimate-looking PDF that goes to a copy of the Adobe website, where you will find your login credentials requested. Always check the URL of a website. The same thing could happen with websites trying to steal your banking information and other important information.

Educate yourself

Knowledge is a powerful thing; the more you know the safer you can be. Here are a few links to sites that can help explain the threats and teach how to detect and avoid them. If nothing else, please take the quizzes so you can have some practical experience spotting scams.

Phishing quizzes:
https://www.opendns.com/phishing-quiz/
http://www.sonicwall.com/furl/phishing/ 

Explanation of phishing and identity theft from the federal government:
http://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0003-phishing
http://www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/feature-0014-identity-theft

 

]]>
Thu, 11 Aug 2016 11:33:37 -0700
4264:27240 <![CDATA[Add some loping to your life -- at a discount]]> Esmerelda Guerrero Get physically active with the Living Whole Wellness Program at Loma Linda University Health. Put a little play into the day and catch all the benefits that exercise provides.

Employees and students who run or walk, or those thinking of becoming more physically active, can sign up for the Loma Linda Lopers Club marathon clinic or Holiday Classic with a $20 discount.

The training clinic begins Sunday, Aug. 14, from 6:30 to 9 a.m. at Drayson Center. It will offer training, motivation and instruction to help individuals finish a marathon or half-marathon. Online registration is now open.

Coming Dec. 4 is the Lopers’ 27th annual Holiday Classic 5K and half-marathon. Online registration will begin by October.

To register for the events, visit lopersclub.org and type in your EID#. The $20 subsidy will automatically be applied to your activities.  

]]>
Thu, 04 Aug 2016 09:57:28 -0700
4264:27244 <![CDATA[Devotional -- in the face of fear]]> Terry Swenson Editor’s note: As Loma Linda University Health continues a massive construction project to build the new Medical Center and Children’s Hospital towers, the chaplains invite members of the campus to pray and fast each Tuesday, asking for God’s guidance and wisdom as we continue to grow. Below is a devotional from a series in News of the Week based on the biblical book of Nehemiah, in which Nehemiah faced a massive building project of his own.

*** 

“You saw the suffering of our ancestors in Egypt; you heard their cry at the Red Sea. –Nehemiah 9:9

What one word could encapsulate the angst of our society and our world? Would it be fear? All of our sources of news and information shout out in fear — fear of failing economies, fear of terrorism, fear of natural disasters and global climate change, fear in politics and on and on.

What word would sum up your personal life? For many of us, it would once again be the word “fear” — fear of an unstable job situation, fear of falling income and rising bills, fear for hurting relationships, fear of the results of medical testing, fear of the uncertainties of making it through the day. Fear.

The dictionary definition of fear is “a distressing emotion aroused by impending danger, evil, pain, etc., whether the threat is real or imagined; the feeling or condition of being afraid.” Our fears are based on a feeling that, whatever it is that we are facing, far outstrips our capabilities to meet the challenge and resolve the outcome. Bottom line — we cannot do it … we are vulnerable.

We feel that way with good reason. The tornado-like twists and turns of life swirl us around faster than we can do anything about them. So what is the answer? Do we give up? Do we zone out and medicate ourselves with work or pleasure or chemicals? Do we become cynical and resigned to our inevitable fate? That’s exactly what many around us do, but it doesn’t resolve anything.

Nehemiah suggests another way. When the people of Jerusalem looked at the dangers they faced and how weak they were, when they heard the reading of God’s Law and saw how inadequate they were, they wept and feared. Yet, in the midst of their tears, Nehemiah told them to remember all the wonderful, powerful, loving things God had done for them in the past. He told them to remember that God is the same God with the same power and the same love who hears our petitions and acts!

What are you facing right now as you are reading this? What do you fear? Maybe what you face seems far above your ability to handle or change, and you feel like crumbling. Don’t! Stop. Take a moment right now to remember God and how He has acted in history, in the lives of people you know, in your life. Dry your tears! Do not fear! God loves you! God is acting on your behalf!

Terry Swenson, DMin
Campus chaplain
Loma Linda University

]]>
Thu, 04 Aug 2016 10:05:20 -0700
4264:27238 <![CDATA[New location for Shared Services and LLIECHE accounting]]> Employees of Loma Linda University Shared Services and Loma Linda–Inland Empire Consortium for Healthcare Education will now find their accounting offices in a new location: Mountain View Plaza, 11165 Mountain View Ave., Ste. 137, Loma Linda.

The following employees have all moved to the new location:

• Myra Arroyo
• Vanessa Cerna-Carmona
• Marina Dos Santos
• Pramila Thadi
• Orlando Huggins 

Interoffice mail can now be sent to MVP 137.

]]>
Thu, 04 Aug 2016 09:52:13 -0700
4264:27236 <![CDATA[Angela Lalas recognized -- again -- by leading industry publication]]> Heather Reifsnyder and Susan Onuma The national health care industry is taking notice, once again, of Angela Lalas, MBA, senior vice president for finance at Loma Linda University Health.

For the second time in 2016, Becker’s Hospital Review, a leading industry publication, has recognized Lalas for her excellence. The magazine just named her one of 2016’s 50 “Rising Star” health care leaders under the age of 40.

According to Becker’s, “These administrative leaders have made considerable accomplishments in their relatively short careers. Becker's selected leaders for this list through an editorial review process, including reviews of peer nominations.”

Lalas says she attributes this recognition to, and is thankful for, Christian Seventh-day Adventist education, and credits Loma Linda University Health, as well.

“Working at Loma Linda University Health has not only given me the blessed opportunity to serve and be part of a mission I strongly believe in,” she says, “but also to grow, be mentored and inspired by outstanding professionals and role models over the past 10 years. I am thankful to work with an amazing team of highly committed individuals.”

Earlier in 2016, Becker’s named Lalas one of 2016’s 150 hospital and health system CFOs to know.

Loma Linda University Health’s president, Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, and executive vice president for hospital affairs, Kerry Heinrich, JD, echo Becker’s recognition of Lalas’ accomplishments.

Hart says, “Angela truly exemplifies leadership, compassion and professionalism in everything she does. In these times of financial challenges and uncertainty in the health care environment, we are blessed to have her leadership.”

Heinrich says, “Angela’s leadership and commitment to this organization have been exemplary, and she is an invaluable asset.”

As senior vice president of finance for Loma Linda University Health, Lalas oversees financial operations for the six hospitals within the system, including analysis and reporting for Loma Linda University Medical Center and its affiliates.

Before taking on her current role in 2015, she was vice president of finance for the system.

Lalas earned her MBA from Claremont Graduate University in Claremont, California, and her undergraduate degree in accountancy from Adventist University of the Philippines, and she is a licensed CPA in California.

]]>
Thu, 04 Aug 2016 09:50:15 -0700
4264:27242 <![CDATA[Professor of Biochemistry Bruce Wilcox passes away]]> With sadness, Loma Linda University Health announces that R. Bruce Wilcox, PhD, died July 29 after serving the institution for 51 years.

The professor of biochemistry will be remembered for his significant contributions to the School of Medicine, according to Roger Hadley, MD, dean.

After joining the faculty of the School of Medicine in 1965, Wilcox filled administrative posts in the department of biochemistry, including three years as executive secretary and 10 years as chair. Under his leadership, the number of faculty in the department doubled.

“Both as a teacher and administrator, Dr. Wilcox had a strong influence on the development of the School of Medicine’s curriculum and the shaping of its basic sciences programs,” Hadley says.

Wilcox was a member of the school’s curriculum committee and an active voice for the issues and concerns of basic sciences in education. He also represented the School of Medicine and department of biochemistry on the university academic affairs committee.

In 1989, Wilcox became the first chair of the interschool faculty advisory council, the faculty governance body of Loma Linda University.

In recognition of his commitment and steadfast service, Wilcox was the recipient of the University Distinguished Service Award in 2000, honoring “his contributions — characterized always by excellence — in teaching, research and administration.”

A memorial service will be held Friday, Aug. 12, at 2 p.m. at Loma Linda University Church. Those who are unable to attend and would like to send a note to the family can address it to:

Deanna Wilcox and Lisa Butler
1698 Rose Ave.
Beaumont, CA 92223

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to the LLU School of Medicine general scholarship fund. Donations can be sent to:

Office of Philanthropy - Gift Records
Attn: Regina Joseph
P.O. Box 2000
Loma Linda, CA 92354

]]>
Thu, 04 Aug 2016 10:02:35 -0700
4264:27250 <![CDATA[Campus cafeteria closes for repairs]]> Heather Reifsnyder Loyal diners of the campus cafeteria in the Councilors Student Pavilion will need to eat elsewhere for the next month or so. Beginning Monday, Aug. 8, the cafeteria will close for repairs to drain lines in the floor.

What to do? Fear not.

The Patio Pantry just across the parking lot, in between the Campus Store and Loma Linda Market, will add extra hours and menu items during the period of the cafeteria closure. 

Hours at the Patio Pantry will expand to 7 a.m. through 6 p.m., covering all three meals of the day. In addition to its usual offerings, the menu will grow to include more grab-and-go items as well as daily specials one would normally find in the cafeteria.

The repairs to the drain lines involve tearing up the floors, installing new pipes and re-flooring. This is expected to take approximately four weeks.

For more information, call dining services at (909) 558-8241.

]]>
Thu, 04 Aug 2016 11:28:02 -0700
4264:27248 <![CDATA[Notes from the President -- a united homecoming]]> Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   August 2016
Alumni -- and our biggest homecoming yet

“Richard

Alumni. It is what universities produce, what they brag about and what makes universities both famous and humble. Loma Linda University has had its share, an estimated 50,000 since we began our School of Nursing in 1905.

What stories they can tell. What stories we can tell. And because of that Blue Zone* thing, we estimate more than 35,900 of these graduates are still living. That’s 72 percent. This is pretty remarkable for a university that started very small 111 years ago, offers health science only and is sponsored by a church that is now 93 percent based outside this country.

Our first school, Nursing, now has 9,458 graduates, including 1,344 from master’s and doctoral programs. Our youngest school, Pharmacy, has 597 graduates and is fast growing that number. Its 10th anniversary class graduated in May 2015. Our School of Medicine will cross the mark of 11,000 alumni next May, the most of any medical school west of the Mississippi. We have 6,918 graduates from our School of Dentistry, 6,159 from Public Health, 13,446 from Allied Health Professions, 2,100 from Behavioral Health and even 65 from our School of Religion. We also count the many physician residents who did their specialty training here. There are around 7,000 of these residents and fellows alone!

But numbers are just numbers. The real impact are the individuals those numbers represent — alumni who have crisscrossed this globe many times, who have taken the unique Loma Linda message of health, healing and hope to the remotest corners. They have started scores of hospitals and training programs, treated millions upon millions of patients and brought comfort to many more. As a recent survey confirmed, they have made the world a better place by walking and working here.

Through the decades, each of our eight schools has nurtured its alumni and offered annual events and meetings for them. Most graduates cannot return each time, but many do, time and again, celebrating the school and relationships that gave them their professional lives. Many more send their children to school here, support us with their donations and share the Loma Linda story wherever they are.

For some time now, those of us who live and work here have thought, “What would it be like if we had one united alumni weekend instead of several — if we shared our stories and relationships with each other, spanning generations and disciplines, cultures and faiths?”

Recently in Dean’s Council the idea came up again, and suddenly the sentiment grew: Let’s do it! Let’s truly become One Loma Linda. I asked the question again several weeks later. Did the deans really want to combine all their alumni weekends into one? Could we really accomplish this in 2017? Would the logistics work? Do we have room to host this? What would our alumni think? Would they enjoy or be frustrated by not having their own unique weekend? Currently these weekends start in mid-February and end in “Homecomingmid-April. Great times, but could they be even greater with shared programs on Sabbath, with couples and friends from different schools being able to attend and fellowship together?

And so planning started, hesitant at first, but picking up momentum with each discussion. The idea is to share activities on Sabbath, while maintaining separate continuing education classes on Thursday, Friday, Sunday and Monday for each professional discipline. We will meet in the Drayson Center for collective events, which can seat around 2,700.

Our colleagues at Loma Linda University Medical Center quickly suggested they would like to join the event, adding medical resident graduates and former staff members from all the Loma Linda entities.

The biggest question was which weekend to use. The largest alumni convention currently is the School of Medicine’s, provided by their Alumni Association, called simply APC, for Annual Postgraduate Convention. In discussions with both the APC governing board and eventually the full Alumni Association board, we reached the decision to hold our proposed Homecoming Weekend simultaneously with APC. This would allow shared programming on Friday night and Sabbath, but still let APC maintain its usual programs, lectures and banquet, as many have come to expect.

They have graciously agreed to this strategy, so the planned dates will be March 2-6, 2017. Schools will continue to hold some of their own continuing education programs, but we will also identify and offer a number of interdisciplinary opportunities as well. We hope to have considerable reciprocity, however, so if someone sees an interesting topic offered by another school, she or he could attend that lecture.

We plan to start the shared programming Friday evening, with a vespers program at Loma Linda University Church. Sabbath morning programs will be in the Drayson Center for everyone, featuring special groups composed of both alumni and students. A large haystack lunch will follow by the pools at Drayson Center, giving opportunity to eat with friends and classmates. During the afternoon, there will be a variety of special tours, including one of our new San Bernardino campus. We will gather again for a mission vespers at 4:00 p.m. at the University Church organized by the Medical Auxiliary. Saturday evening will be a combination of class events and perhaps some special programs or presentations.

Does that sound like a weekend of inspiration and enjoyment? A time to celebrate our accomplishments and challenges, to fellowship and worship together? We will try it for this first year and then judge its impact and value. If it is as successful as we hope, it can become another way to be One Loma Linda — to educate, motivate and support our many alumni and friends who anchor at least some of their identity around this place.

In closing I want to announce a significant leadership change here at Loma Linda University Health. Gerald Winslow has retired from his vice president position, but has agreed to carry on as director of our Center for Christian Bioethics, a position he previously filled. Our Board has appointed Randy Roberts as our new vice president for spiritual life and mission, to be assisted by Carla Gober-Park as his assistant VP. Both will also continue with their current responsibilities — Randy as senior pastor of Loma Linda University Church, and Carla as director of our Center for Spiritual Life and Wholeness. I am delighted with their commitment and the intended objective of further strengthening our spiritual and service programs and pulling the University Church closer to Loma Linda University Health through shared programming and space utilization. Join me in welcoming them to our Loma Linda team.

See you in March!

Cordially,

“Richard 

 

 

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

Vision 2020: The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow

 

*Blue Zone® is a registered trademark of Blue Zones, LLC, and refers to a place in the world where residents have much greater longevity. The community of Loma Linda was designated a Blue Zone in a National Geographic article by Dan Buettner.

Office of the President, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350

Copyright © 2016 by Loma Linda University

llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 04 Aug 2016 10:52:20 -0700
4264:27180 <![CDATA[Join the community and country in National Night Out]]> Courtney Haas and Heather Reifsnyder National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that works to promote partnerships between law enforcement and the communities they serve as well as increase neighborhood camaraderie to make one’s home a safer place to live. 

Loma Linda University Health is supporting these goals by hosting the local celebration of National Night Out.

Traditionally celebrated on the first Tuesday every August, the event will be held Tuesday, Aug. 2, from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. on the campus mall between Loma Linda University School of Dentistry and Loma Linda University Church. Parking will be available in both parking structures on Campus Street.

John Marshall, director of campus security, expressed the value of this event, saying, “This is a fantastic opportunity for Loma Linda University Health to show its dedication to our community’s safety and to supporting our law enforcement partners.”

As the largest county by area in the nation, San Bernardino County has been divvied into divisions for this event with Loma Linda falling under the central division, including Grand Terrace, Loma Linda and the unincorporated areas of San Bernardino County.

All from the campus and community are invited to come out and join in the fun as San Bernardino County and Loma Linda University Health work toward building a safer community.

Dinner will be served by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department but the fun doesn’t end there. Stick around as the celebration features the sheriff’s bomb, arson and SWAT teams, search and rescue, crime prevention information, McGruff the crime-fighting dog, a Loma Linda Fire Department and CERT (community emergency response team) display, K-9 demonstrations, games and more. 

This event is collaboratively sponsored by San Bernardino County, the city of Grand Terrace, Loma Linda University Health, Sheriff John McMahon, the city of Loma Linda and Target.

To learn more about this national event, please click here.

]]>
Thu, 28 Jul 2016 13:44:53 -0700
4264:27174 <![CDATA[Research symposium to highlight diversity and health disparities research]]> Heather Reifsnyder Increasing diversity in the health sciences is a major goal at Loma Linda University Health, and some of the results of that effort will be highlighted next week during the 16th Annual Health Disparities Research Symposium, hosted by LLU Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine. 

The symposium takes place Wednesday, Aug. 3, in Wong Kerlee International Conference Center, from noon to 7:45 p.m.

It will kick off with a lunchtime (refreshments served) address titled “From Dirt Roads to the Oval Office” by Gayle Slaughter, PhD, senior associate dean for graduate education and diversity at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas. She is a nationally recognized leader for her work on diversity at Baylor.

From 2:30 to 5 p.m., minority students who have been mentored in research by faculty affiliated with the Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine will offer scientific poster presentations on their investigations. More than 80 of their research projects will be highlighted.

The students come from local high schools, undergraduate colleges across the nation, medical schools all over the country and Loma Linda University PhD programs.

Refreshments will follow from 5 to 5:30 p.m., after which the evening program will begin.

Slaughter will offer the keynote address, titled “The Impact of Diversity: From an Institution to the Nation.” Roger Hadley, MD, dean of LLU School of Medicine, will be among other speakers for the evening. 

The day will end with an acknowledgement of research fellows by the leadership of the LLU Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine.

Guests are encouraged to register for the free symposium by Aug. 1 at llu.edu/hdr. For more information, e-mail chdmm@llu.edu.

The Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine has designation by the National Institutes of Health as a Center of Excellence on Health Disparities Research.

Its research delves into the contributors of health disparities and diseases that disproportionately impact minority and medically underserved populations. Such contributors to these disparities may include biological, environmental and socioeconomic factors.

The center also offers several programs that give high school through graduate-level students experience in researching diseases associated with health disparities.

Learn more about the center at its website

]]>
Thu, 28 Jul 2016 11:34:06 -0700
4264:27176 <![CDATA[Devotional -- Making each day holy]]> Kathy McMillan Editor’s note: As Loma Linda University Health continues a massive construction project to build the new Medical Center and Children’s Hospital towers, the chaplains invite members of the campus to pray and fast each Tuesday, asking for God’s guidance and wisdom as we continue to grow. Below is a devotional from a series in News of the Week based on the biblical book of Nehemiah, in which Nehemiah faced a massive building project of his own.

 *** 

Be still, for this is a holy day. –Nehemiah 8:11

The alarm clock rings, but you are already half awake. It’s hard to sleep when the to-do list is so long. Sluggishly, you pull on your sweats and head outside for a brisk walk. (Well, it was intended to be brisk, but with so little sleep, it’s hard to move very fast.)

As soon as you’re back in the house, you wake up the kids before heading to get a quick shower. While trying to get ready for work, you are interrupted at least four times by children who: A) have lost their homework, B) can’t find their shoes, C) are arguing about who has to feed the dog and D) have gum in their hair.

Running late, you hastily throw lunches together, only to hear, “Do we have to have peanut butter again?” As you run out the door, you trip over last week’s laundry, which you haven’t had time to fold … and you are off and running!

It doesn’t seem very much like a holy day, does it?

In Nehemiah’s story, after the wall was built and the exiles returned — after they had settled into their new homes in their old country — the people gathered together one morning to hear the reading of the law.

It wasn’t the Sabbath; it was just a day they gathered to hear the word of God. The priests told the listeners, “Be still, for this is a holy day.” It wasn’t holy because it was a feast day. It wasn’t holy because some great orator was delivering a speech. It was holy because the people listened to God.

The implications are profound, yet simple. What if every day became a holy day? What if we took time each day to listen to God, to hear His word? How might our lives change if we committed time each morning or evening to reading scripture and praying about what God wanted to teach us through it?

Maybe we could turn every day into a holy day.

Kathy McMillan, MA
Director, employee spiritual care
Loma Linda University Medical Center

]]>
Thu, 28 Jul 2016 11:36:32 -0700
4264:27178 <![CDATA['America's Got Talent' contestants perform for patients]]> Briana Pastorino Patients at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital got a private performance from current contestants on the television show “America’s Got Talent,” a family band named Edgar, July 26.

Nikki Leonti-Edgar, her husband, Ryan, and daughter Jaslyn, who make up the group, stopped by the hospital to sing and visit with patients.

Edgar performed five songs for an intimate crowd of roughly 50 patients and staff, during which one young patient took it upon himself to join in. Franco Gonzalez Bucio, 2, from San Bernardino, a lover of all things musical according to his mom, joined the trio with his pint-sized guitar.

Watch this video of Franco and Edgar — and stay tuned for something really cute at the 1:30 mark. (Story continues below.)

“He likes to pretend he can play any instrument,” Maria Gonzalez Bucio said of her son, who has been in and out of the hospital since May battling leukemia. “He even likes to serenade the girls on the unit.”

This visit was band member Nikki’s first time back at LLU Children’s Hospital in over 25 years — since her brother lost his battle with cancer. Nikki wanted to give back to the hospital and staff who compassionately cared for her brother by sharing her family’s music with patients, like Franco, who are undergoing treatment at the hospital.

“Seeing these kids struggling definitely makes it hard to keep it together,” Nikki says, “but knowing we’re bringing joy and offering a moment away from their individual situations makes it a little easier.”

Nikki, a Corona, California, native, now lives in Los Angeles with her husband and band mate Ryan and their three children. Their oldest, Jaslyn, is the only one singing on the show.

Before the band departed the hospital, Edgar got input from the patients on what song they should sing for their next performance on “America’s Got Talent.” They also visited with patients on the units who were unable to attend the performance.

The family trio made their debut performance on “America’s Got Talent” in June this year and will begin live shows this August on NBC. They hope to return to Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital in the near future to sing for the kids again.

]]>
Thu, 28 Jul 2016 11:38:35 -0700
4264:27144 <![CDATA[Don't let summer keep you from healthy living]]> Esmerelda Guerrero Do you want to maintain a healthy lifestyle throughout the summer? Making healthy choices during the summer can be a challenge. Enthusiasm can wear off quickly with distractions from work and summer vacations. However, it is possible to stay strong and maintain your health goals while still enjoying this great season. 

The Living Whole Wellness Program at Loma Linda University Health is offering employees a way to help. In the For Life program you will receive accountability for your goals, tips on how to maintain your healthy changes and information on how to strategically plan for roadblocks or barriers.  

This 10-week program is available to all covered employees and their spouses. It begins Sept. 1 and ends Nov. 3. Meetings will take place on Thursday at 5:30 p.m. at LLUAHSC Services 101 Building.

The idea is to offer personalized services; therefore, a one-on-one appointment with your facilitator is required before the program start date. 

The registration deadline is Aug. 26, so call ext. 14007 today to make healthy changes for life. 

]]>
Wed, 20 Jul 2016 15:46:33 -0700
4264:27153 <![CDATA[Devotional -- joy in our tears]]> Terry Swenson And Nehemiah continued, “Go and celebrate with a feast of rich foods and sweet drinks, and share gifts of food with people who have nothing prepared. This is a sacred day before our Lord. Don’t be dejected and sad, for the joy of the Lord is your strength!”
–Nehemiah 8:10

At first glance, choosing this text in the wake of all that has been transpiring in our world seems, at the least, out of context. To be truthful, it appears almost insensitive. There are images etched in our memories. Violent. Brutal. Senseless. Recordings of reprisal killings. Anger. Distrust. Resentment. Frustration. Helplessness.

Year after year, decade after decade, lifetime after lifetime, and there is still racism, still economic disparities, still deep divides that separate. We see stagnation and stalemates in legislative bodies. There doesn’t seem to be an answer in sight. The crumbling of a sense of community. There seems to be no way forward, no plan, no vision. And, as the scriptures state, “Where there is no vision, the people perish.” (Proverbs 29:18)

The streets of our cities are not the only places that witness fear, frustration and lack of community. We have to look no farther than our own workplace, clinic, classroom or cubicle. There are those in our midst who live in fear and are subsequently silent. When people who look like you are being killed, you fear if you will make it home tonight. Not understanding why people are protesting and seeing law enforcement officers targeted. With whom do you share your frustrations?

If you dare to share, there is fear of repercussions. What do we do when the reach of current events has crashed into our lives? It is ironic that Loma Linda University Health, founded by and focused on Christ, could become a place of silence and fear. Two of the values that we hold to — justice and freedom — speak against fear and separation. Our calling to “continue the teaching and ministry of Jesus Christ” compels us to not just voice our values, but to live them and empower others to do likewise. It is by remembering Him whom we work for, and how we are called to love and live, that we can see a “vision” of how we can endure and move forward.

That vision has life breathed into it by our scriptural passage for today: “Don’t be dejected and sad, for the joy of the Lord is our strength!” (Nehemiah 8:10) It is not our vision. It is God’s vision! It is not accomplished in our strength. It is accomplished in God’s strength. Sadness and dejection come when we look at our failures and inabilities as individuals and a nation. Joy — a hope for the future — comes with seeing things through the eyes of the Lord. What would that joy look like? It would be a joy stemming from knowing a clear way forward. It would be a happiness to know that we aren’t doomed to a life of fear and separation, cynicism and disillusionment. It is the comfort that comes from knowing that we can rest in Him while we grieve. It comes from accepting His invitation to give all our burdens of fear and worry to Him. It is not just in a fairytale land where love can reign and fear be banished. It is not just a myth to believe we can be one. It is our destiny as long as we follow the pathway Jesus blazed for us.

We can make Loma Linda University Health a place of openness, of acceptance, of trust. We can do it one heart and one life at a time. We can start with ourselves and those God has placed around us. We can celebrate that love will win … every time.

Terry Swenson, DMin
Campus chaplain
Loma Linda University

]]>
Thu, 21 Jul 2016 10:10:07 -0700
4264:27155 <![CDATA[Alumnus addresses the U.S. on primetime national television]]> Heather Reifsnyder Ralph Alvarado, MD, a graduate of Loma Linda University School of Medicine, was elected state senator for Kentucky in 2014. On July 20, 2016, he came to the whole nation’s attention when he spoke at the Republican National Convention.

“It is an honor to be asked to speak at the convention and to represent Kentucky on the national stage,” Alvarado said.

He was the first Hispanic elected to state office in Kentucky. As a state senator, Alvarado serves as vice chair of the Senate’s Health and Welfare Committee. He also holds memberships in the American College of Physicians, the American Medical Association, the Kentucky Medical Association and Clark County Medical Society.

After graduating from Loma Linda University, Alvarado completed his medical residency in internal medicine and pediatrics at the University of Kentucky.

Alvarado currently works for KentuckyOne Medical Group. He also volunteers with Rapha Ministries, a faith-based medical clinic providing free health care in Clark County, Kentucky, to those who cannot afford medical insurance.

He and his wife, Dawn, have been married for 20 years and have two children.

]]>
Thu, 21 Jul 2016 10:12:01 -0700
4264:27146 <![CDATA[Don't forget to complete the mandatory transportation survey ... today]]> Patricia Ibarra and Courtney Haas Last month we asked the question, “How do you get to work each day?” Seventy percent of you answered this state-required commuter survey, but with the deadline upon us, that response is not enough to please state regulators and avoid fines.

Loma Linda University Health set a goal to have 90 percent of employees take part in this questionare, and the survey ends tomorrow, July 22. Responses are particularly vital from employees who work three 36-hour shifts or four 10-hour shifts each week.

If you have not yet taken the survey, please click here to make sure your response is recorded. Your response also helps to increase the chances of your department receiving 100 percent participation to be entered into a drawing for a sweet treat and a chance for an employee of the winning department to win a 40-inch Vizio television.

Supervisors may contact the department of rideshare, parking and traffic services to receive a list showing whom in their department has yet to complete the survey.

This survey is an annual mandate by the state of California to determine average vehicle ridership for employees of the Medical Center, Children’s Hospital, Surgical Hospital, East Campus, Health Care, Shared Services and Loma Linda-Inland Empire Healthcare Consortium.

For more information, please see the FAQ attached below or call the department of rideshare, parking and traffic services at 909-651-3033.

]]>
Wed, 20 Jul 2016 16:36:39 -0700
4264:27151 <![CDATA[LLU research pioneer Raymond Ryckman passes away]]> Rachel Curtis-Robles and Heather Reifsnyder Medical entomologist Raymond Ryckman, PhD, helped put Loma Linda University on the map as an institution contributing valuable research to medical science. The Loma Linda legend passed away July 18 at the age of 99.

After finishing a bachelor’s degree in zoology at the University of California, Berkeley, in 1950, Ryckman was recruited to Loma Linda University for a faculty research position in the newly established School of Tropical and Preventive Medicine (forerunner of today’s School of Public Health). At the request of the United States Army, he began researching transmission dynamics of the plague as part of the Army’s effort to keep troops safe and healthy while stationed in Southeast Asia. His funded research efforts played a major role in the understanding of plague transmission and control, and it is still cited today.

After this grant ended in 1955, Ryckman returned to UC Berkeley to complete a master’s degree and PhD. His doctoral research focused on the insect Triatoma protracta, which carries and spreads the parasite responsible for Chagas disease, Trypanosoma cruzi. His dissertation was published in 1962.

In 1960, Ryckman joined the Loma Linda University School of Medicine department of medical microbiology. He taught and conducted research at Loma Linda University until his retirement in 1987. Other research interests besides triatomine insects included cactiphilic flies and lizard mites.

In honor of his research, Ryckman was honored in 1972 when a triatomine was named after him: Triatoma ryckmani. He was further honored in 2007 when the Society for Vector Ecology gave him the Distinguished Achievement Award.

In 2008, he received the University Distinguished Service Award, the highest honor awarded by Loma Linda University.

Ryckman built a considerable publishing legacy during his lifetime. He authored or co-authored approximately 115 publications, and his papers are a rich library of information about every aspect of triatomine and mammalian hosts of T. cruzi.

As a service to the scientific research community, Ryckman regularly contributed bibliographies, which, in the age before the Internet and electronic publishing, were a valuable source of information for researchers. He stated that “A bibliographic monograph is the summation of our historical, cultural, and scientific heritage in a given field of endeavor.”

The capstone of his career was the publication of three bibliographies of the world literature concerning Triatominae, Triatominae-borne pathogens and Chagas disease. Compiled over the course of 16 years, and with a total number of references exceeding 23,000 publications, these bibliographies are a unique and unparalleled contribution to the field of Chagas disease research. Additionally, after his retirement, he co-authored a book on the life of Edmund Jaeger, a biologist well known for his studies of the desert ecology of the U.S. Southwest.

Ryckman also leaves behind a vast and valuable collection of more than 25,000 insects, which he donated to the Bohart Museum of Entomology at the University of California, Davis. The collection includes triatomine samples from the numerous colonies he kept, as well as tsetse flies and other parasitic insects. 

Raymond Edward Ryckman was born June 19, 1917, and grew up on a farm in rural Wisconsin. He exhibited an early fascination with insects that would inform his later career. At the age of 24, he was drafted into the Army and served for four years at the hospital at the Presidio Army Base in San Francisco. During this time, he met and married his wife, Evelyn Larson.

A dedicated family man, Ryckman frequently took his wife and three children on trips for fieldwork across the United States and to Mexico. He published several articles with his sons as co-authors, and he credited his wife for carefully and patiently reviewing and editing his manuscripts prior to submission.

A memorial service and reception for Raymond Ryckman will be held Monday, July 25, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Emmerson-Bartlett Memorial Chapel in Redlands. A graveside service will follow the next day, July 26, 11 a.m., at Montecito Memorial Park in Loma Linda.

]]>
Thu, 21 Jul 2016 10:07:09 -0700
4264:27106 <![CDATA[Earthquake drill photo winners revealed]]> Courtney Haas Just a few weeks ago Loma Linda University Health held a photo contest coinciding with the campus’ June 29 earthquake drill. Drop. Cover. Selfie. While this might not be the typical reaction you think of when you prepare for an earthquake drill, Cambria Boyer, emergency management specialist, shared that the idea behind this contest was to not lighten the tone of the drill, but to help increase employee involvement.

“It is important to train and exercise according to the desired response in a real event, and while taking a selfie in a real earthquake is not recommended, the drop, cover and hold process is,” Boyer says. “By getting under the desk and going through the motions, it creates muscle memory, a safer reaction and increases our response time during an actual earthquake.”

After sifting through hundreds of photos, the winners have been chosen and 16 lucky individuals will be receiving the prize of a one-person, three-day basic emergency kit. This prize is awarded to two individuals per Loma Linda entity under the categories of safest photo and most creative photo.   

“We were impressed with the time and effort that some folks put into their creative pictures and to see the team building and collaboration that took place,” Boyer says.

Safest photos:

  • Behavioral Medicine Center winner: Lenner Love
  • Children’s Hospital winner: Veronica Laprise
  • Group winner: Adriana Melo registration group
  • Loma Linda University winner: Barbara Ninan
  • LLU Health Care winner: Rochelle Sobredo
  • Medical Center winner: GloryAnn Meza
  • Shared Services winner: Marie Gornay
  • Murrieta winner: Nicole Jung

Most creative photos:

  • Behavioral Medicine Center winner: Ashley Pelton
  • Children’s Hospital winner: Evelyn Figueroa
  • Group winner: Kathy Respicio LLU Special Care Dentistry
  • Loma Linda University winner: Marjorie McPherson
  • LLU Health Care winner: Alicia Garcia
  • Medical Center winner: Neil Calaguian
  • Shared Services winner: Steven Hergert
  • Murrieta winner: Courtney Sackwar

“This contest also gives us a chance to assess our work space, predetermine the best possible options and ensure the space is cleaned and clear of clutter and accessible at all times,” Boyer goes on to say. “The challenge of getting people to stop what they are doing and literally drop, cover and hold on became a lot easier when we added some fun lighthearted competition.” 

]]>
Thu, 14 Jul 2016 11:04:47 -0700
4264:27123 <![CDATA[Finding comfort in pain]]> Dilys Brooks But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope:
The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases,
His mercies never come to an end;
–Lamentations 3:21-22

These past nine days have found our nation reeling with a mix of emotions because of a series of tragic events. Anger, fear, despair, helplessness and deep sadness are the ones that I have encountered as I have listened, watched or interacted with others both in person and via the media. During times like these, some of us are tempted to withdraw or choose sides from which to throw volleys of hurtful words in an effort to assuage the deep ache that still lingers despite the prayers, the calls and words of support. There are others of us who are at a loss for words and don't quite know what to say because they don’t understand or fear their gestures may be misunderstood.

We have all shown up to work this past week with our emotions either hidden well or leaking out in our interactions with others. We will continue to be about the mission of providing health care in the Inland Empire and rich educational experiences for our students. Having the daily routine of employment has been helpful to keep our minds from dwelling on what has transpired, yet it does not provide the comfort and assurances that we need to return to a state of equilibrium. So how are we to cope? Where do we find comfort when we feel inconsolable?

Solace may be found by tenaciously holding on to God. Jeremiah, who is sometimes referred to as the weeping prophet, had the assignment of warning Judah to turn back to God before they were conquered by Babylon. He was familiar with death, despair and helplessness. In the midst of lamenting the fall of the nation, the prophet observed that despite what had occurred God could still be counted on. He mercifully keeps us from being consumed by the tragedies and concerns that seek to drown us with despondency. Each day we arise, God provides us with new mercies. He provides us with networks of friends, family and coworkers with whom to share our sorrows, fears and hopes. He provides us with the opportunity to work together to do justice and learn how to share the kindnesses that we receive from Him with others.

It is my hope that everyone who works for Loma Linda University Health found a safe place to mourn and express disappointment, fear and their frustration this week. If you haven't, I would like to encourage you to reach out to someone today and give voice to your emotions. Together through our faith and values we can actively pursue a path that provides comfort for those in pain, and become champions of justice and extend the healing love of God. We have no idea what the next seven days will hold for each of us, so I encourage you to find comfort in this poem I love:

I have been through the valley of weeping,
The valley of sorrow and pain;
But the “God of all comfort” was with me,
At hand to uphold and sustain.

]]>
Thu, 14 Jul 2016 11:15:56 -0700
4264:27094 <![CDATA[Retire with security]]> Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Health wants its employees to retire safe in the assurance of a secure income.

To help employees age 50 and above reach this goal, human resource management is hosting a free series of presentations next week by Adventist Healthcare Retirement Plan. This applies to employees of Loma Linda University Medical Center, Children’s Hospital, Behavioral Medicine Center and Shared Services.

The presentations will provide greater insights into retirement planning and will offer options to maximize retirement investments. A specialist from Prudential will be there to discuss the Prudential IncomeFlex Target Vanguard Balanced Index Fund. This is a simple solution for secure retirement income.

These optional sessions will be held according to the following schedule; seating is available on a first-come first-served basis. Employees must obtain permission from their supervisor to attend. 

July 18
7:30–8:30 a.m. — Mountain View Plaza room 8 A and B
11:00 a.m.–noon —  Mountain View Plaza room 8 A and B
4:00–5:00 p.m. — Children’s Hospital 1830 and 1832

July 19
10:00–11:00 a.m. — Medical Center lobby-level amphitheater
2:00–3:00 p.m. — LLUAHSC 101 employee lounge 

July 20
10:00–11:00 a.m. — Children’s Hospital 1830 and 1832
2:00–3:00 p.m. — Behavioral Medicine Center education room

July 21
10:00–11:00 a.m. — Medical Center lobby-level amphitheater
2:00–3:00 p.m. — LLUAHSC 101 employee lounge

July 22
7:30–8:30 a.m. — Mountain View Plaza room 8 A and B 

Employees unable to attend a session can learn more about retiring securely by watching this video.

For more information, contact Patricia Larios-Gil, AHRP representative, at Patricia.Larios-Gil@ahrp.com or 909-674-2002.

]]>
Wed, 13 Jul 2016 16:14:18 -0700
4264:27101 <![CDATA[Harmony of wellness]]> Courtney Haas Summer is upon us and music is in the air. This can only mean one thing for Redlands, California. The Redlands Bowl Summer Music Festival is well underway and this year, Loma Linda University Health is sponsoring Harmony of Wellness.

On July 19, M-PACT, a renowned acapella group, will be performing live at the Bowl. But before the music even begins, Loma Linda University Health volunteers will be providing free enjoyment for all ages with kids’ activities, a photo booth and wellness screenings.

At 5 p.m., professionals from the schools of Public Health, Allied Health Professions, Dentistry and Religion, along with PossAbilities and Vision 2020, will be on site to share information on preventive care, perform health screenings including body mass index and grip tests, and share opportunities for attendees to get involved with community programs and the Vision 2020 campaign.

After enjoying the booths, attendees are encouraged to stick around for the main event. M-PACT begins at 8 p.m. With M-PACT hailed as “one of the best pop-jazz vocal groups in the world” by the San Francisco Chronicle, this night is sure to be filled with fun. 

]]>
Thu, 14 Jul 2016 10:03:30 -0700
4264:27096 <![CDATA[Loma Linda University Health hosts first annual Baby Conference]]> Susan Onuma and Courtney Haas Whether you are recently new to changing diapers or expecting your first child, you won’t want to miss an exciting new conference held by Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital.

The first annual Baby Conference will take place on Sunday, July 24, on the fourth floor of Centennial Complex from 10 a.m. to noon. With two expert panels leading informational sessions on postpartum depression and breastfeeding, this conference is sure to be filled with helpful knowledge for all mothers.

The conference is free of charge. Attendees can pre-register by calling 1-877-LLUMC-4U (1-877-558-6248).

]]>
Wed, 13 Jul 2016 16:27:35 -0700
4264:27090 <![CDATA[New notice of patient privacy practices takes effect Aug. 1]]> Heather Reifsnyder The office of corporate compliance at Loma Linda University Health has revised the patient notice of privacy practices. The effective date of the updated notice is Aug. 1, 2016. It reflects changes made to patient rights by the HIPAA privacy rule and notifies patients of the shared electronic health record between Loma Linda University Health and other CareConnect Partner health providers in the area.

The revised notice must be given to all new patients on their first encounter at a Loma Linda University Health facility. Additionally, the new notice must be available by patient request and by placing them in a prominent location for patients to pick up.

Finally, both a summary of the revised privacy notice and a poster announcing the new notice need to be prominently displayed.

Department heads should send a requisition to Printing Services to order the revised statement and notification posters.

Download the memo below for full instructions on ordering and sharing the materials.

For more information about the revised notice of privacy practices and its distribution, contact corporate compliance at ext. 14200.

 

]]>
Wed, 13 Jul 2016 15:37:56 -0700
4264:27097 <![CDATA[Don't weight another year]]> Esmerelda Guerrero How are your summer weight goals going? Reaching and maintaining a healthy weight is important for overall health and can help you prevent and control many diseases and conditions.  Research has shown that your health can be greatly improved by a loss of just 5-10 percent of your starting weight. That doesn’t mean you have to stop there, but it does mean that an initial goal of losing 5-10 percent of your starting weight is both realistic and valuable.

The Living Whole Wellness Program at Loma Linda University Health is here to help you on your journey to a new you.

The Say N.O.W. (No to Overweight) program provides weight management resources to employees and covered spouses. 

Instead of promising a “quick fix,” this program helps you focus on the importance of physical activity and nutrition, while addressing motivation, obstacles and pitfalls that make losing weight and keeping it off so challenging. 

Join this free program today and learn to lose weight for life.*

To get more information or to sign up, call ext. 14007. 

Program Specifics:

Start date and time: Varies by track

Program duration: Four months of active participation (eight to 12 weeks of weekly meetings plus additional requirements)

Information about other Living Whole Wellness programs and services can be found here:

http://myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole/

*The Say N.O.W Program is open to Loma Linda University Health employees and covered spouses; the program is free when attendance and program requirements are met. 

]]>
Wed, 13 Jul 2016 16:28:44 -0700
4264:27043 <![CDATA[Devotional -- Stay on target]]> Dilys Brooks Editor’s note: As Loma Linda University Health continues a massive construction project to build the new Medical Center and Children’s Hospital towers, the chaplains invite members of the campus to pray and fast each Tuesday, asking for God’s guidance and wisdom as we continue to grow. Below is a devotional from a series in News of the Week based on the biblical book of Nehemiah, in which Nehemiah faced a massive building project of his own.

 *** 

He read from it before the square, which was in front of the Water Gate from early morning until midday, in the presence of men and women, those who could understand; and all the people were attentive to the book of the law. – Nehemiah 8:3

 

Summer is reserved for fun in the sun, relaxed hours, and time with family and friends. While these indolent days, with their unbearable heat, beckon us to take time off, we are still in the business of providing health care. How do we stay motivated to do the tasks we have set before us during these midsummer months? What keeps us focused when we are facing challenges in our area, unit or department? How do we endure the pressure of meeting work expectations when our personal lives are falling apart? 

Once more we can look to Nehemiah’s experience for suggestions on how to stay single-minded on the tasks at hand. Upon completion of the wall, all the people gathered in the square by the Water Gate and listened to the reading of the “Law of Moses.” The people stood for hours, listening. Why did they listen so attentively? I think they thoughtfully attended because these words of the law defined who they were as a people and validated their reason for being in Jerusalem once more.

What would we define as “The Law” for Loma Linda University Health? We would only have to look at the mission and vision statements of our organization. We exist to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ. Our vision is innovating excellence in Christ-centered health care.

Staying grounded when there are distractions, challenges and unexpected circumstances requires periodic refocusing. This reorientation should happen whenever we gather together as a team — staff meetings, project-planning sessions or in committees. We should review our department or school mission/vision statements to ascertain whether or not the work we are doing is actually helping us to progress to the overarching goal of Loma Linda University Health. Our statements help define who we are as an organization and confirm our purpose in the Inland Empire.

Remaining focused when we are facing challenges in our area, unit or department requires a commitment to transparency, accountability and support. When our personal lives are falling apart, we should take advantage of the resources afforded through the Living Whole Wellness Plan, the Drayson Center, mental health support and time with family and friends. Summer is here for a few more months. As long as we stay on mission, as one Loma Linda family, we can continue to provide excellent health care and instruction to our patients, students and partners. As long as we stay on mission. 

Dilys Brooks, MDiv

Associate campus chaplain

Loma Linda University

 

]]>
Thu, 07 Jul 2016 11:23:20 -0700
4264:27044 <![CDATA[Copy. Print. Ship. Create.]]> Courtney Haas Loma Linda University Health Digital Production Ink’s new retail location is now open for business. So get ready to Copy. Print. Ship. Create. 

Offering services to meet all variety of print and mailing needs, the new Digital Production Ink facility is located next to the Loma Linda Market in Suite 105 at 11161 Anderson Street. 

Services have expanded to offer a variety of self-serve options, such as copying, lamination, large paper cutting and paper hole punching. The new location also provides shipping services through the United States Postal Service and UPS. The store stock shipping supplies, boxes and envelopes.

Customers can also rent mailboxes, purchase office supplies or promotional items, request custom embroidery, print or engraving jobs or simply visit for their notary services.

Jennifer Rowland, manager for Digital Production Ink, expresses her enthusiasm by saying, “I am so excited to finally announce that our retail store is open for business! It has been a long time in the works. While still offering all of the same printing needs for our customers, we now also offer self-serve options and additional services to help support our customers’ needs. Please stop by and see the shop for yourself.”

Office hours are:

Monday – Thursday 7 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Friday 7 a.m. – 3 p.m.

To learn more about this new location and the services offered, please visit dpi.llu.edu or call 909-558-4552. 

]]>
Thu, 07 Jul 2016 11:24:33 -0700
4264:27041 <![CDATA[Pick up your free tickets for All-Star Appreciation baseball game]]> Heather Reifsnyder Now is the time for each employee, student and volunteer of Loma Linda University Health to pick up his or her six free tickets to the July 18 Inland Empire 66ers baseball game against the Lake Elsinore Storm.

Yes, it’s All-Star Appreciation Day once again — the annual employee thank-you event.

The game starts at 7:05 p.m. at San Manuel Stadium, 280 South “E” St., San Bernardino, 92401. Pick up your tickets at the box office now; you must have your work ID badge with you.

Each employee was sent in the mail a ticket for the prizes that will be given away, with the grand prize being a Hawaiian vacation package. You must be present to win. However, night-shift employees can call 1-877-LLUMC-4U for information about how they can win.

Call the same number with other questions.

Go 66ers!

]]>
Thu, 07 Jul 2016 11:09:32 -0700
4264:27039 <![CDATA[New VP/administrator for East Campus and Surgical Hospital]]> Heather Reifsnyder Jonathan Jean-Marie, MHA, has joined the leadership team at Loma Linda University Health. On June 27, he became vice president/administrator for LLU Medical Center East Campus and LLU Surgical Hospital.

“Jonathan is recognized as a results-driven health care executive,” says Kerry Heinrich, JD, executive vice president for hospital affairs, Loma Linda University Health. “His interests include organizational leadership, project management, program development, human resources management, physician engagement and policy development.”

Jean-Marie comes to Loma Linda University Health after serving as CEO of Kindred Hospital Riverside for more than a year. During his career he has worked in a variety of health care settings, including regulatory, managed care and hospital operations management.

“I am blessed and honored to join such an incredible organization with a great legacy,” Jean-Marie says. “I hope to continue the amazing work that has already begun at East Campus and Surgical Hospital. I am committed to working with our teams, our physicians and leaders to provide exceptional, patient-focused care consistent with our mission.”

Jean-Marie holds a master’s degree in health care administration from Florida A&M University, and he is a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives and the National Association for Health Services Executives.

Heinrich concludes, “I am looking forward to working with Jonathan to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ. I hope you will take a moment to welcome him as he joins the Loma Linda University Health administrative team.”

]]>
Thu, 07 Jul 2016 11:01:13 -0700
4264:27057 <![CDATA[Notes from the President -- Success in San Bernardino]]> Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   July 2016
"Victory has a hundred fathers, and defeat is an orphan."

“Hart”This quote, popularized by John F. Kennedy, certainly applies to the success of our new San Bernardino campus. Our ribbon cutting June 22 was the culmination of nearly 50 years of passionate and persistent commitment to our community by a wide array of individuals and organizations.

In fact, it is more like 110 years of commitment, as early newspaper accounts tell of Dr. Julia White, one of our first faculty members, giving health talks to the San Bernardino community in 1907! One of our earliest relationships in the community began with the Serrano Indians, who had lived in this valley for centuries. Dr. Lyra George, an obstetrician, began the practice of going out by horseback to deliver babies in their humble homes, occasionally taking medical students with her.

In the late 1960s, energized medical students at Loma Linda University, guided by Harvey Elder and others, started evening clinics in available community buildings in Bloomington and north Redlands. With free sample medications and meager supplies, this service was welcomed by uninsured patients, including migrant farm workers and local hippies.

As with most volunteer efforts, these clinics were carried by passionate student leaders, coordinated through those early years by Cynthia Cooley-Vest and later Janice Maynor Crayk. When the department of preventive medicine was formed in the early 1980s, it offered to pick up the supervision and staffing of what was then called the Social Action Corps, or SAC clinics.

By the early 1990s, growing patient volumes begged for larger facilities. Janice and I started driving around San Bernardino, hoping to find an abandoned building we could beg, borrow or buy for expanding our clinic space. Someone suggested we try the Norton Air Force Base, which was converting to civilian use. When we first walked through that space in 1993, we couldn’t believe the potential. It had 40 exam rooms, 20 dental operatories, lab and X-ray departments, and was even air conditioned!

It took two years of negotiation and paperwork with the federal government,“Norton but on October 16, 1995, SAC Norton was opened. We officially changed our name to Social Action Community (SAC) Health System, incorporated as a nonprofit under Loma Linda, and registered to see Medicaid (MediCal) patients. The city of San Bernardino also built us a larger clinic at the Frazee site, and Dr. Frederic Gutekunst, School of Medicine class of ’40, gave us his clinic in north San Bernardino to make it a three-clinic system, with SAC Norton as the hub.

Soon our volume grew from 3,000 to 30,000 patient visits annually, including primary medical care, dental care and behavioral health visits. Dr. Ken Hart joined as medical director, and in 1999 Nancy Young became the clinic administrator.

About five years ago, dreaming began for an even larger facility that could see more patients, have space for more students and provide continuity clinics for many of our 700 residents doing specialty training at Loma Linda University Health. We applied to become a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), the government’s safety net health system across the country. With our initial designation as a “look-alike” FQHC, we had confidence to begin the planning for a larger facility and started sharing that dream with others.

Pat Morris, then mayor of San Bernardino, immediately liked the idea and offered land in the center of town for this venture. Though it was ultimately not suitable as a clinic site, this support encouraged us to look for other space, eventually resulting in the purchase of a seven-acre site next to the 215 Freeway in the heart of San Bernardino. We also began a closer working relationship with the San Bernardino City Unified School District and its energetic superintendent, Dale Marsden.

Out of these discussions came the recognition that a larger health system would be tremendously helpful to the struggling city, but equally important would be to help lower the unemployment rate by training young high school graduates with job skills. We recognized that a clinic is also a training laboratory, a place where we could provide these young lives with mentoring, purpose and a meaningful future. As this idea of a “Gateway College” matured, it became clear we were talking about a larger building, additional expense and a major commitment. 

“Front

We turned to our old friends, the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, as they are now called, and asked if they wanted to partner on this critical development project. After due consideration, they enthusiastically committed $10 million to the project, offering their name to the “San Manuel Gateway College” as a major part of what was now envisioned as our new Loma Linda University Health – San Bernardino campus.

With the preferential funding from our FQHC status for Saneach patient visit, we felt the SAC Health System could easily expand, adding more primary care as well as a wide variety of specialty clinics. The Affordable Care Act was starting to roll out, suggesting that hundreds of thousands of uninsured patients in the Inland Empire would now be covered and seeking care, guaranteeing expanded clinical demands.

This raised expectations among our clinical departments at Loma Linda, as they considered moving their many resident clinics to the new site. The educational opportunities this would provide, with both vertical and horizontal integration of students, was exciting. We would have physicians in their specialty training, working alongside our many students from Loma Linda, all interacting with our San Manuel Gateway College students — three levels of education, with many different health disciplines learning side by side. And as I keep emphasizing, this educational system must be bi-directional — high school grads teaching our students and residents about life and reality in the city while they learn professionalism and clinical skills.

So the dreams matured, and financial plans were gradually put together for what ended “Clinic”“Classroom”up as a $68 million project providing us with 157,000 square feet of clinic and educational space. San Manuel Gateway College is on the top floor, with classrooms, laboratories, simulation lab, anatomy lab and learning space.

Primary and specialty care of all types will be provided in 124 exam and procedure rooms, as well as dental care in 24 dental operatories. Filling out the space will be a large behavioral health area with both private and group counseling rooms, a pharmacy, laboratory and vegetarian cafeteria called the Farmacy Fresh Cafe. We have also obtained an additional two acres of land between us and the freeway to use as a community garden.

Take a minute to look at these videotaped ribbon-cutting ceremony highlights to appreciate the beauty and quality of this San Bernardino campus and what it adds to Loma Linda University Health. The clinic opens in mid-July, with specialty care moving in during August and the college starting in September.

As I shared during the opening ceremony, there were three fundamental questions that we had to answer as this campus became reality — Should We? Could We? and finally, Would We? I am proud that Loma Linda answered all these in the affirmative, despite many legitimate questions about cost, risk, purpose of a university, partnerships, etc. During all my years at Loma Linda, no other project has generated such community support and enthusiasm as this one.

Inland Empire residents sense that we are truly partners in their destiny, sharing in their trials and triumphs. We will develop relationships among young people that will change their lives forever — not just the San Manuel Gateway College students, but our own students. What better way to find meaning, to live out our core values, than to confront real human need with tangible answers? My prayer is that God will bless this new campus to become all it can be.

Cordially yours,

 

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

Office of the President, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350

Copyright © 2016 by Loma Linda University

llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 07 Jul 2016 13:09:27 -0700
4264:27003 <![CDATA[Celebrating freedom on Independence Day]]> Heather Reifsnyder Everything that is really great and inspiring is created by the individual who can labor in freedom." –Albert Einstein

As Loma Linda University Health takes a day off to celebrate Independence Day this Monday, let the above words of Einstein remind us to be thankful for the freedom to choose, innovate, express ourselves, live as we wish, and work at what we love. Let us use our freedom to love one another, create a better future, and act as servant leaders.

Many offices across campus will be closed Monday, with normal business hours resuming Tuesday. The office of public relations, which publishes News of the Week, wishes employees, students and community members a safe, happy and rejuvenating holiday weekend.

]]>
Wed, 29 Jun 2016 16:32:07 -0700
4264:27001 <![CDATA[Devotional -- Generations]]> Dilys Brooks Editor’s note: As Loma Linda University Health continues a massive construction project to build the new Medical Center and Children’s Hospital towers, the chaplains invite members of the campus to pray and fast each Tuesday, asking for God’s guidance and wisdom as we continue to grow. Below is a devotional from a series in News of the Week based on the biblical book of Nehemiah, in which Nehemiah faced a massive building project of his own.

 ***

Then my God put it into my heart to assemble the nobles, the officials and the people to be enrolled by genealogies.–Nehemiah 7:5 

Summer is fully upon us in the Inland Empire. It has come with sweltering heat and humidity, which drive us to the beach, pool or inside air-conditioned spaces. This season also heralds a time for vacation and family reunions. Our family tree provides us with vignettes of who we are and where we come from. 

I am often reminded through my interactions with people that we are shaped by our experiences with our families of origin, communities and perceptions. I only have to look within my own family to see how the choices of my parents, and both sets of grandparents, have impacted or influenced the manner in which I relate to God and others.

In the unfolding story captured in the biblical book of Nehemiah we find the governor ordering a census to be taken to record the genealogy of the returned exiles from Babylon. It is important to note that the construing of a genealogy is not exciting or scintillating. Most of us would confess that we would typically skim through such lists, while there a few who would also admit they find these same lists of names rather fascinating. Whichever camp you may find yourself in does not remove the 67 verses from chapter seven of Nehemiah.

The keeping of the records served as a method of establishing and preserving the allotment of land; preserving the hereditary of the priesthood; maintaining the right of royal succession from the Davidic lineage and the imposition of military duty.

Nehemiah indicates that the initiative to compile the names of all the people who had returned was inspired by God. It was important for this group who would now occupy the city with its new wall to remember who their forbearers were and also reflect on how Yahweh had always kept His promises.

Remembering “whom” we come from is essential to maintaining the ethos of Loma Linda University Health. We are here in this region because of our commitment to caring for the mind, body and spirit with our many strengths and one mission. 

Each of us who makes up the approximately 15,000 employees of Loma Linda University Health is a part of a story that began over 111 years ago. When was the last time, or perhaps, the better question could be, have you ever viewed the many genealogies that hang on walls in our various buildings? Are you familiar with all of the people who have believed and worked to forward the mission of our organization? Perhaps we all should review them, often, especially when the heat has us hunkered down in our buildings. If we don’t remember where we have come from we may find ourselves far from serving the mission of our organization or, worse, creating an environment that stymies our growth.

Remind me of this with every decision
Generations will reap what I sow
I can pass on a curse or a blessing
To those I will never know.

–“Generations” by Sara Grove, 2001

 

Dilys Brooks, MDiv
Associate campus chaplain
Loma Linda University

]]>
Wed, 29 Jun 2016 16:30:13 -0700
4264:26997 <![CDATA[ServiceNow to launch at Loma Linda University Health]]> Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Health is debuting a new information services customer portal for health care employees called ServiceNow. This will be the new online site to enter and track technical incidents, support service requests, client access requests and project optimization requests. 

ServiceNow will go live at midnight July 3; the current service desk portal (LANDesk) will redirect customers to the new site. The portal will change in appearance and function to behave more like a typical online shopping experience.

“ServiceNow will better meet the current and future needs of the growing health system, including our CareConnect partners,” says Ryan Ashline, chief information services architect.

The following link for both information services members and their customers will become active at midnight July 3:  https://lluh.service-now.com.

For more information, call the service desk at ext. 48889.

Note: Loma Linda University information services customers will continue to use the university helpdesk for technical support, reachable at ext. 48611. 

]]>
Wed, 29 Jun 2016 16:25:10 -0700
4264:26995 <![CDATA[Filmed highlights of San Bernardino ribbon-cutting: a day for Loma Linda University Health history]]> advancement films ]]> Experience the ribbon-cutting ceremony and tours of Loma Linda University Health – San Bernardino on June 22 in this 3:45-minute video. Hear why this new venture is so important. 

]]>
Wed, 29 Jun 2016 16:23:29 -0700
4264:26999 <![CDATA[$2.4 million grant will integrate psychological and medical care for low-income population]]> Heather Reifsnyder A substantial new grant will help low-income patients by further integrating behavioral health with medical training at SAC Health System in San Bernardino. 

The U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration awarded the $2.4 million grant to Loma Linda University School of Medicine to conduct a collaborative project between the school’s department of family medicine and the School of Behavioral Health’s department of psychology.

The grant will allow the creation of interprofessional high-risk teams of nurses, family physicians, psychologists and pharmacists to support patients who are the most vulnerable for poor health outcomes, integrating behavioral health as needed in all outpatient clinic visits. 

“For example,” says principal investigator and professor Kelly Morton, PhD, “if a patient has uncontrolled diabetes, they are at risk for stroke, heart attack, loss of vision and limbs.  If they are also depressed, it will be difficult to make progress with medication adherence and lifestyle changes needed to prevent these complications. 

“With this integrative team approach, we can examine the whole person and determine the best program referral or visit type to help the patient work with us to achieve health and wellness over time.”

While this grant will help patients, it will also create a sustainable pipeline of family medicine physicians and primary care psychologists who can work together to improve mental and physical health in the same clinical setting. This pipeline is particularly important in the Inland Empire, which has a shortage of physicians as well as medically underserved populations of patients.

The project, called IMPACT,* will create this sustainable pipeline of family physicians and primary care psychologists by:

• training medical and psychology students from Loma Linda University to improve behavioral health integration workflow;

• training family medicine faculty and residents and medical/psychology students  in team communication and leadership skills to manage patient populations with a well-functioning interprofessional team; and

• creating two service learning tracks for medical and psychology doctoral students including didactics, mentoring and placement at a federally qualified health center to provide care for the underserved in our region.

"Five percent of our nation's population consumes 50 percent of the health care costs and resources,” says Roger Hadley, MD, dean of the School of Medicine. “Among these chronically ill patients there are inevitable behavioral issues that must be considered in their management. The most effective way to treat these complex cases is to work collaboratively with the different health care professions."

“This grant provides an expanded opportunity for the department of psychology to work with the department of family medicine in an integrated health model to serve the patients at SAC Health System,” says Beverly Buckles, DSW, dean of the School of Behavioral Health. “The stipends that will be provided for students will be a tremendous help in financing their graduate education.”

---

*Integrated Medical-home for Patients: Access, Cost and Targeted Management

 

]]>
Wed, 29 Jun 2016 16:27:07 -0700
4264:26948 <![CDATA[Images capture history: Ribbon cutting ceremony a joyous occasion]]> Nancy Yuen A joyful and emotional celebration marked the completion of Loma Linda University Health ­– San Bernardino. Located at 250 South G Street in downtown San Bernardino,  it includes San Manuel Gateway College, funded in part by a generous gift of $10 million from the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, an expanded multi-specialty medical clinic operated by Social Action Community Health System (SACHS) and a vegetarian restaurant, which will showcase the longevity enhancing benefits of a plant-based diet.

The facility will soon be busy providing health care and education to members of the community: June 27 is move-in day for SACHS; behavioral health services, family medicine residency and current SACHS pediatric services begin service Monday, July 18.

In early August, the pediatric teaching office begins services, and internal medicine and OB-GYN and specialty clinics begin services.

San Manuel Gateway College programs, including medical assistant, front and back office skills and certified nurse assistant, are scheduled to begin in September.

Farmacy Fresh Café will open in the fall.

To see a photo gallery of the event, visit news.llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 23 Jun 2016 11:31:00 -0700
4264:26942 <![CDATA[Vegging out this summer]]> June is National Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Month — celebrate with the Living Whole Wellness Program at Loma Linda University Health.

The program is offering a free webinar that will help viewers add more fruits and vegetables into their diets.

Join in and learn simple and tasty ways to eat more veggies and fruit, even for picky eaters.

Time: 5:30 to 6:00 p.m.

Date:  Wednesday, June 29, 2016

Presenter:  Chef Cory Gheen, MS

Watch this WellnessLIVE presentation at http://myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole/wellnesslive/.

]]>
Thu, 23 Jun 2016 09:45:49 -0700
4264:26944 <![CDATA[Devotional -- Guard your soul]]> Kathy McMillan Editor’s note: As Loma Linda University Health continues a massive construction project to build the new Medical Center and Children’s Hospital towers, the chaplains invite members of the campus to pray and fast each Tuesday, asking for God’s guidance and wisdom as we continue to grow. Below is a devotional from a series in News of the Week based on the biblical book of Nehemiah, in which Nehemiah faced a massive building project of his own. 

*** 

I said to them, “The gates of Jerusalem are not to be opened until the sun is hot. While the gatekeepers are still on duty, have them shut the doors and bar them. Also appoint residents of Jerusalem as guards, some at their posts and some near their own houses.” –Nehemiah 7:3

Some time ago, we were guests at a graduation for a relative. Having traveled a distance, we arrived eager to find a seat and join in the celebration. Although we had arrived in what seemed like plenty of time, the crowds were large and we struggled to find our way. A few minutes before the event was to begin when we were nearly at the door, we were told that the venue was full and we would have to watch from an overflow room. We were terribly disappointed! 

I watched with interest the varied responses from the crowd. Some were yelling at the security personnel; others were using brute force to attempt to break through the barriers. Others sadly, but dutifully turned around and followed instructions to the overflow room.  

Human beings aren’t generally very fond of gatekeepers.  They often seem to be the ones who are keeping us out of a place where we want to be. But upon reflection, they are also the ones who keep us safe while living within the set parameters. Consider attending a major sporting or music event without “gatekeepers” — those individuals who help to direct the crowds and keep order. Imagine Disneyland without employees pointing guests to the proper lines. It would be utter chaos. 

After the wall was built around Jerusalem, Nehemiah appointed gatekeepers and instructed them not to open the gates until the sun was hot. This was a time of high security because of the opposition they had faced. There were numerous dangers and many enemies who would have liked to gain access to Jerusalem. 

On a daily basis, we are each exposed to potential hazards and situations that distract us from our calling. The enemy of our souls would like nothing better than to enter and destroy. But sometimes his assaults are subtle and he comes in disguise. Our anger rises when we are mistreated; we are envious of a colleague’s promotion; we watch a program or movie that subtly distracts us from God. Paul tells us, “… whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable — if anything is excellent or praiseworthy — think about such things.” Philippians 4:8.

It doesn’t happen by chance. Nehemiah appointed gatekeepers to protect the city. We must do no less. Let us determine to carefully guard the avenues to our soul and to stay connected to Jesus. 

Kathy McMillan, MA
Director
Employee spiritual care
Loma Linda University Medical Center

]]>
Thu, 23 Jun 2016 09:49:30 -0700
4264:26936 <![CDATA[Parking structure provides spaces for bikes]]> Courtney Haas The new patient parking structure for Loma Linda University Medical Center and Children’s Hospital has been open to public use for several weeks now, opening the doors on June 6. What many may not know is that there is also parking available in the garage for those commuting on their bicycles.

In addition to the 745 spaces for patients covering the six levels of parking, there is also a room available for parking and storing bikes. Located directly to the left of the drive in, right next to the stairs, this locked room is available to all employees of Loma Linda University Health. To access the room on a first come, first served basis, badge activation is required from the department of rideshare, parking and traffic services. Car parking in the structure, however, is for patients only. 

This option is ideal for candidates taking part in the rideshare benefits program. By riding your bike to work you are eligible to earn $60 per quarter that will be distributed through payroll.

To learn more about parking and rideshare benefits, please contact parking and traffic services at extension 53025 or parking@llu.edu.  

]]>
Thu, 23 Jun 2016 08:23:03 -0700
4264:26946 <![CDATA[18 months of construction in less than 3 minutes]]> Advancement films ]]> This video, screened yesterday at the ribbon cutting of Loma Linda University Health – San Bernardino, shows time-lapse video of the construction and shares what the facility will mean to the community.

]]>
Thu, 23 Jun 2016 10:06:13 -0700
4264:26940 <![CDATA[School of Nursing receives $2 million HRSA grant]]> Heather Reifsnyder The U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration has awarded Loma Linda University School of Nursing a $2.05 million, three-year grant to expand and diversify its nurse practitioner education program to better prepare graduates to work in medically underserved areas such as many found in San Bernardino County.

San Bernardino County has lower than average educational attainment and higher than average unemployment and poverty rates, as well as high Medi-Cal enrollment, according to project director Lisa Roberts, DrPH, associate professor at the School of Nursing.

At the same time, the population is served by fewer than average primary care physicians and nurse practitioners per person, intensifying known health disparities, found Roberts and Gloria Huerta, DNP, assistant professor, and Andrea Champlin, MPH, faculty instructor.

“Nurse practitioners can help solve the shortage,” Roberts explains. Therefore, students need clinical experiences that prepare them to meet the needs of culturally diverse, medically underserved populations.

The grant will allow the School of Nursing to achieve this objective by steps including:

• Hiring additional faculty for the nurse practitioner program, with priority given to underrepresented minorities who meet requisite qualifications

• Creating and expanding academic-practice partnerships in order to provide more clinical training opportunities in medically underserved populations

• Increasing students’ clinical hours in training with inter-professional teams in medically underserved areas

• Increasing minority enrollment in the nurse practitioner program, and

• Augmenting the curriculum and training for both preceptors and students.

The project team believes these steps will increase the likelihood of Loma Linda University’s nurse practitioner students working in medically underserved areas after graduation.

Dean Elizabeth Bossert, PhD, says, “This grant will help nurse practitioner students understand the great health needs of the population in the Inland Empire and will increase the likelihood that the graduates of the LLU School of Nursing program will choose to continue working in this region.”

Competition for the grant was intense, according to Betty Winslow, PhD, professor and research director, School of Nursing.  “We are very pleased that the project team has received this grant for the School of Nursing graduate program,” she says.

This news follows on the heels of another grant recently received for the nurse practitioner program from the state of California’s Song-Brown grant program.

The $80,000 Song-Brown grant will also allow the school to increase efforts to prepare nurse practitioner students to work with diverse patient populations.  At the same time, it will work to increase diversity within the profession through mentoring potential future nurse practitioners.

]]>
Thu, 23 Jun 2016 09:42:37 -0700
4264:26844 <![CDATA[Graduates enter next phase of life]]> Heather Reifsnyder With pomp and circumstance, Loma Linda University awarded more than 1,000 diplomas June 12 to graduates of the schools of Allied Health Professions, Behavioral Health, Nursing, Public Health and Religion.

The photo galleries on news.llu.edu tell the story of the day. See graduates get ready, march in, receive awards, grasp their diplomas for the first time, and celebrate with friends and family afterward. 

Click on the links below and scroll down to the picture galleries.

School of Allied Health Professions (split into two ceremonies)

            • Part 1: Allied health studies, cardiopulmonary sciences, clinical laboratory science, health informatics and information management, nutrition and dietetics, physician assistant sciences, and radiation technology

            • Part 2: Communication sciences and disorders, occupational therapy, and physical therapy

Schools of Behavioral Health and Religion (combined ceremony)

School of Nursing

School of Public Health

 

]]>
Thu, 16 Jun 2016 09:32:03 -0700
4264:26840 <![CDATA[Devotional -- Can We Be Trusted?]]> Dilys Brooks Editor’s note: As Loma Linda University Health continues a massive construction project to build the new Medical Center and Children’s Hospital towers, the chaplains invite members of the campus to pray and fast each Tuesday, asking for God’s guidance and wisdom as we continue to grow. Below is a devotional from a series in News of the Week based on the biblical book of Nehemiah, in which Nehemiah faced a massive building project of his own.

***

“Now when the wall was rebuilt and I had set up the doors, and the gatekeepers, then I put Hanani my brother, and Hananiah the commander of the fortress, in charge of Jerusalem, for he was a faithful man and feared God more than many.” Nehemiah 7:1–2

During our application process to gain employment at Loma Linda University Health, we submitted the names of two or three individuals who could serve as references to the claims on our résumés. These were individuals whom we could trust to support the veracity of our claims regarding our work experience and characters. We cannot downplay the importance of their testimonies about us to verify or contradict our claims. Some of the positions in the organization require not only references, but also a background check to ensure that we really are who we say we are! 

The assessment of our recollection of our personal history is not limited to employment opportunities; it shows up when we apply for credit, rent an apartment, apply for utilities or begin relationships. Can we be trusted to be truthful about our accomplishments? Can we be trusted to be good stewards of the resources under our care? Can we be trusted to fulfill the responsibilities when we are being considered for a project or promotion?

Nehemiah completed the undertaking that he had been assigned to in Jerusalem. The wall was rebuilt despite all the letters that had been written to discredit him or the character assassins who had been hired to dishonor him. The fact that the wall was completed was evidence that he could be trusted. Then came the challenge to choose a successor who was loyal to God and to the vision. He chose two: Hanani his brother and Hananiah, the commander of the fortress, because he was a faithful man and feared God more than many.

There are some who may think these lines of scripture support nepotism, which is the unfair practice by a powerful person of giving jobs and other favors to relatives. I would disagree. The perception of those who had observed Nehemiah’s brother working closely with him throughout the entire rebuilding process would not have viewed it this way. I would also like to invite us to consider Hananiah’s reference — Yahweh! As the fortress commander, he served not to impress others as competent or to be considered for a promotion. No, instead it was his faithful execution of his job under stressful, uncomfortable conditions that made him stand out. This was infused with his reverent commitment toward God, which made him a likely candidate for leadership in Nehemiah’s absence.

May it be said of each employee of Loma Linda University Health that we are men and women who exemplify a commitment to the vision of the organization and our faith in God. May we be trusted to execute our individual assignments with compassion, integrity and excellence when no one is watching.

Dilys Brooks, MDiv
Associate campus chaplain
Loma Linda University

]]>
Thu, 16 Jun 2016 09:28:02 -0700
4264:26842 <![CDATA[Another Emmy win]]> Briana Pastorino The Loma Linda University Health department of advancement films earned, once again, the highest honor in the television industry — the Emmy.

The National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences awarded “Life on the Line” its first Emmy Award in the category of health/science program at the 42nd Annual Pacific Southwest Emmy Awards over the weekend in Rancho Mirage.

Produced by advancement films, the documentary television series gives viewers an inspiring look into the resilience of humankind as it brings Loma Linda University Health’s mission to life.

The winning episode, “Rough Beginning,” features the maternal fetal medicine center and neonatal ICU at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital.

After an unexpected pregnancy, Janett and Gian find out their baby boy will be born with a life-threatening condition called gastroschisis, a birth defect in which the intestines are outside of the body.

Without immediate medical treatment, baby Theodore’s life will be in danger as soon as he is born. Gastroschisis happens twice as often in California’s Inland Empire and researchers at Loma Linda University Health are working to find out why.

The episode follows the journey of a young family, whose bond grows stronger during their biggest life challenge, and the doctors and nurses who pull together with hopes of giving Theodore a future.

This recent win brings the film team’s total Emmy count to 13.

The advancement films team is currently in production of season 3 of “Life on the Line,” which is scheduled to air in winter 2016.

]]>
Thu, 16 Jun 2016 09:30:04 -0700
4264:26846 <![CDATA[Mandatory commuter survey]]> Heather Reifsnyder How do you get to work each day? The state of California wants to know and is administering a brief survey to find out.

Each employee of Loma Linda University Medical Center, Children’s Hospital, Health Care, East Campus, Shared Services and Loma Linda–Inland Empire Healthcare Consortium is required to complete the survey as soon as possible (by July 21 at the latest). Lack of participation can result in a hefty fine to Loma Linda University Health. 

Questions? See the FAQ attached below or call the department of rideshare, parking and traffic services at 909-651-3033.

Need an incentive besides doing what needs to be done?  Departments with 100 percent participation will be entered into a raffle for a sweet treat and the chance to win a 40-inch Vizio television.

 

]]>
Thu, 16 Jun 2016 09:40:17 -0700
4264:26849 <![CDATA[Drop. Cover. Selfie.]]> Heather Reifsnyder With the San Jacinto Fault running right under San Bernardino County, an earthquake drill is always a good idea.

Loma Linda University Health is holding such a drill Wednesday, June 29, and to get employees involved, the department of environmental health and safety is holding an educational selfie contest. The prize is a one-person, three-day basic emergency kit that will be given to two winners per Loma Linda entity.

What to do? Follow the process one would take for self-protection during an earthquake. Drop to the ground, take cover under something sturdy, hold on.

Then selfie. 

“Show us proof that you know the drill when it comes to earthquake response,” says emergency management specialist Joe Bruno.

“Our main objective is to encourage personal preparedness and safety,” adds Cambria Boyer, emergency management specialist.

Submit your selfie using this form starting at 8:29 a.m. Wednesday, June 29 — not before. Entries will be accepted until 8:29 a.m. Thursday, June 30.

There are two categories — safest selfie and most creative selfie.

Include your entity name in the subject line (LLU, LLUMC, LLUCH, LLUHC, LLUSS, LLUMC Murrieta, LLUBMC). Additionally, your name, department, phone number and contest category should be in the body of the email. One entry per person per category. Winning photos and other interesting shots will be posted online and in social media.

For more information, contact Boyer or Bruno.

Joe Bruno:
jbruno@llu.edu
909-651-4019 ext. 58165

Cambria Boyer:
cboyer@llu.edu
909-651-4019 ext. 58161

]]>
Thu, 16 Jun 2016 09:42:48 -0700
4264:26784 <![CDATA[Employees honored in high style]]> Heather Reifsnyder Last week, Loma Linda University Health honored its employees who have reached milestone work anniversaries of 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45 and 50 years of service. Four banquets were held to recognize these employees from each Loma Linda entity, offering an evening of elegance to thank them for their service.

Did anyone actually reach half a century? One employee indeed reached this milestone: Richard Schaefer, campus historian. Congratulations, Mr. Schaefer.

During each banquet, a number of employees were recognized with Values Exemplar Awards for representing one of Loma Linda University Health’s core values (compassion, integrity, excellence, teamwork and wholeness). The award winners were:

David Colwell – LLU Shared Services
William (Cal) Glisson – LLU Shared Services
Rachel Gonzalez – LLU Health Care
Zoltan Keri – Loma Linda University Health
Ramona McNeil – LLU Behavioral Medicine Center
Cheryle Morrison – Loma Linda University
Olivia Moses – LLU Shared Services
Veronica Ramirez – Loma Linda University Health
Bruce Resiwain – LLU Behavioral Medicine Center
Liliana Rodriguez – LLU Shared Services
Tina Solorzano – LLU Health Care
Gertrudys Sosa – LLU Medical Center – East Campus
Emma Tadiarca – LLU Children’s Hospital
Leilani Turner – LLU Shared Services
Sandra Williamson – LLU Health Care
Anthony Zuccarelli – Loma Linda University 

“Loma Linda University Health thanks these award members and all employees recognized at last week’s banquet for their dedicated service,” says Mark Hubbard, senior vice president, Loma Linda University Health.

To view pictures of the banquets, visit this photo gallery at news.llu.edu.

]]>
Wed, 08 Jun 2016 17:31:28 -0700
4264:26796 <![CDATA[Devotional -- Actions define you]]> Terry Swenson Editor’s note: As Loma Linda University Health begins a massive construction project to build the new adult and children’s hospital towers, the chaplains invite members of the campus to pray and fast each Tuesday, asking for God’s guidance and wisdom as we continue to grow. Below is a devotional from a series in News of the Week based on the biblical book of Nehemiah, in which Nehemiah faced a massive building project of his own.

***

“So on October 2 the wall was finally finished—just fifty-two days after we had begun. When our enemies and the surrounding nations heard about it, they were frightened and humiliated. They realized that this work had been done with the help of our God.”

                                                            --Nehemiah 6:15,16 

As life goes by, some of our memories fade away while others are as vivid and vibrant as this very moment. I was just a little boy trying to earn money for the purchase of some long-forgotten treasure that I just had to have to make life complete. I approached my father and asked if there was any job I could do for him. He just so happened to have one — one I hated. I could weed the front and back yard. It was the middle of summer and the sun beat down on me with hammer blows. I was tired and sweaty. The weeds had roots like iron chains. What started out as a meticulous weeding, soon deteriorated to a sloppy, haphazard plucking. Dad came home and I ran to him to claim my wages. “Not so fast, young man. Let’s see your work.” The look on Dad’s face reflected how poorly I’d done. I didn’t receive any money that day, but I did receive something far more priceless — words to live by. He said, “Son, a good name takes a lifetime to build and a moment to destroy. Let your word and work speak for who you are.”

We live and work in an environment where it seems, more times than we care to admit, as if we have more tasks than time in which to accomplish them. Burgeoning piles of paperwork, maxed out email inboxes and no time for wholeness. So why not skimp a little? Why take the time to go the extra mile? Why not cut corners or treat others brusquely?

While completing the building project Nehemiah could have said and done those very same things. Who would have blamed him? He was given a crazy, seemingly impossible task. Challenging assignment, little time and adversaries all around. Yet he didn’t do those things. Nehemiah knew what my Dad did and what my Dad was trying to teach me — How we do what we do says who we are. The way Nehemiah worked and lived testified to nations that he knew God, obeyed God and trusted God.

Each of us who currently work for Loma Linda University Health are continuing the mission of those who have served in the organization over 100 years ago. As you walk the floors, sit at your desk, enter the classroom, interact with patients or students or customers, you are also engaged in living out this mission. Let us commit to relying on God as our constant help and example. Let us take advantage of the help and presence of our loving Father to meet the demands of our days. Perhaps it will be said of us, as it was of Nehemiah, that everything we accomplish is done with the help of our God.

 

Terry Swenson
Chaplain
Campus Ministries
Loma Linda University Health
]]>
Thu, 09 Jun 2016 10:21:39 -0700
4264:26797 <![CDATA[Graduation weekend]]> Courtney Haas The final graduation weekend for Loma Linda University classes of 2016 is upon us. Don’t forget to cheer on your favorite graduates from Loma Linda University schools of Allied Health Professions, Behavioral Health, Nursing, Public Health and Religion this weekend during hooding ceremonies, a vespers program, baccalaureate services and commencement events.

For anyone unable to attend the graduations in person, there are several options for viewing. First you can access the GradCast by clicking here, and also a new option is available that allows for viewing the commencement ceremonies live on Loma Linda University Health’s mobile app. Download LLUH Mobile for Android here and Apple here.

To view the full commencement schedule, please click here. And for information about speakers and other program information, visit http://home.llu.edu/academics/commencement.

]]>
Thu, 09 Jun 2016 10:23:20 -0700
4264:26794 <![CDATA[New patient parking structure now open]]> Briana Pastorino Loma Linda University Health’s new patient parking structure opened to patients and visitors on Monday, June 6, with the entrance located on Campus Street just north of Barton Road.

Providing much needed parking availability, the new structure still might be a new concept for many patients and visitors, so here are a few things to keep in mind when approaching Loma Linda University Medical Center and Children’s Hospital: 

  • To reach the new parking structure from the current hospital main entrance on Anderson and Prospect, visitors should continue south on Anderson to Barton Road, turn right on Barton Road, proceed to the first traffic signal, turn right on Campus and turn right into the parking structure entrance.
  • The new structure has 745 spaces covering six levels of parking. Handicapped parking includes 12 ADA spaces, three van ADA spaces and one ADA electric vehicle-charging space. There are 10 electrical vehicle-charging spaces available. The building includes a waiting area for patients, two restrooms and two elevators.
  • Upon exiting the parking structure on foot, visitors will find greeters and hospitality services staff stationed along a temporary pathway who will assist with directions to the Medical Center and Children’s Hospital entrances, and provide additional information. This access pathway will serve on a temporary basis until construction for a Grand Hallway entrance project is completed.
  • The current front entrance will remain open, now serving for patient/visitor drop-off/pickup and for valet parking services.
  • With the return of self-parking, visitors using the valet service will be charged a fee. Valet services are now available only during specific hours:
  • Monday to Thursday, 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
  • Friday, 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. 

To learn more about this parking structure and access Loma Linda University Medical Center’s website, click here

]]>
Thu, 09 Jun 2016 10:19:00 -0700
4264:26778 <![CDATA[Angela Lalas recognized by Becker's Hospital Review ]]> Susan Onuma Loma Linda University Health Senior Vice President of Finance Angela Lalas, MBA, has been recognized as one of 2016’s “150 Hospital and Health System CFOs to Know” by Becker’s Hospital Review.

Becker’s Hospital Review, a leading publication highlighting business, legal news and analysis for the hospital industry, recognized in its latest issue the top financial leaders of hospitals and health systems across the country.

“These fiscal-minded leaders help their organizations navigate the challenging changes in health care reimbursement and keep the ship afloat in a time of financial uncertainty for many,” Becker’s Hospital Review said in a statement. 

“Becker's Hospital Review previously published versions of this list in 2011, 2013, 2014 and 2015. Leaders were selected for this list based on editorial research and discretion. Nominations were also considered when making selections for this list. The list featured financial leaders from the country's prominent for- and nonprofit hospitals and health systems,” the statement said. 

“Having our senior vice president of finance be recognized as one of ‘150 Hospital and Health System CFOs to Know’ is a point of pride for our institution,” says Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health.

“Angela truly exemplifies leadership, compassion and professionalism in everything she does. In these times of financial challenges and uncertainty in the health care environment, we are blessed to have her leadership,” he says.

Kerry Heinrich, JD, CEO, Loma Linda University Medical Center, and executive vice president of hospital affairs for Loma Linda University Health, says, “I want to extend my personal congratulations to Angela for having received this honor. Angela’s leadership and commitment to this organization have been exemplary, and she is an invaluable asset.”

“I am deeply honored by this recognition, because I believe this is a testament to the commitment and teamwork of everyone at Loma Linda University Health to provide fiscally responsible world-class care, education and research,” Lalas says.

In her current role as senior vice president of finance for Loma Linda University Health, Lalas oversees financial operations for the six hospitals within the system, including analysis and reporting for Loma Linda University Medical Center and its affiliates. Before taking on her current role in 2015, she was vice president of finance for the system.

Lalas earned her MBA from Claremont Graduate University in Claremont, California, and her undergraduate degree in accountancy from Adventist University of the Philippines, and she is a licensed CPA in California.

Lalas is married to Serafin T. Lalas Jr., MD, and they have two children, Anna Sophia and Serafin Alexander III. The family lives in Loma Linda. 

]]>
Wed, 08 Jun 2016 16:07:47 -0700
4264:26786 <![CDATA[Notes from the President -- Heroes]]> Richard Hart MD, DrPH   June 2016
Heroes

True heroes are never self-proclaimed and are usually reluctant even when acknowledged by others. Rather, they are usually forged through an unsolicited event or sequence of challenges that calls forth an inner grit, skill, and determination. From those circumstances, often “Richardendured in silence and anonymity, comes a refining of character, a building of fortitude and inner peace that molds a life. These solid citizens among us are hesitant to be called out and identified as heroes, but it is important for the rest of us to know and acknowledge the characteristics that make them who they are. Let me tell you about three heroes who have come to my attention this month.

The first I want to reference is Gillian Seton. Just eight years out of medical school now, Gillian completed her five-year surgery residency at the University of Utah and accepted an assignment to work at Cooper Adventist Hospital in Monrovia, Liberia. She arrived in February 2014 and rapidly settled into a busy practice as the primary doctor at this small 25-bed hospital. As the summer of 2014 came on, rumors, then reports, started surfacing of Ebola infections from the countryside in Guinea, Sierra Leone, and Liberia. The latter two countries had recently emerged from long and bloody civil wars, with much of their civil infrastructure still fractured. There was hardly a worse place to deal with what soon became a major epidemic with global significance.

As the infectivity and virulence of the Ebola virus became more evident, panic gripped the capital city of Monrovia. Those trying to care for these patients, both in the hospitals and at home, became infected themselves, with a high mortality rate. Soon the hospitals in the “Gilliancity started closing as workers became afraid to come to work or were consumed with caring for their own families. Our small staff at Cooper was exposed to the same concerns and fears, but determined to carry on. Finally, they were the only hospital caring for medical emergencies in this city of over one million, trying to assess patients in the parking lot to protect the staff and other hospitalized patients from Ebola. After several risky exposures despite all precautions, Gillian was offered a ticket home to protect herself. She refused, calmly stating, “When there is a need, you do what needs to be done.” Over the next year, through multiple exposures, forced temporary closures, and evacuations, she returned again and again to care for those in need.

Our School of Medicine senior class asked Gillian to be their speaker for commencement on May 29. Her message was short and powerful. She told of the challenges she faced personally and professionally as she watched a nation struggle and patients die despite her best care. She ended with three simple words of advice for our graduates. First, you are HUMAN. You will make mistakes and can’t do it all. Accept that and don’t let it defeat you. Second, you are not ALONE. Reach out to those around you, seek help, and reach up to our God for assistance. Finally, be BRAVE. It is amazing what the human spirit can accomplish when pushed to its limits. Our students thanked Gillian with a standing ovation. You may watch her talk on vimeo.com/169881888/03fe7d1920.

The second hero I want to call out is Sharmel Weerasinghe. She graduated from our School of Nursing in 2001 and settled into a busy life as wife, mother, and nurse in Loma Linda “SharmelUniversity Medical Center. The second son born to Sharmel and her husband, Jeevaka, was soon discovered to have a rare chromosomal disorder that made him autistic. As the full impact of this developmental challenge settled in, they began searching for answers in the public and private health and educational systems. Finding little support, Sharmel learned more and more about this disorder and concluded that her son and others had much greater potential than usually recognized, and she determined to give them a better chance at life.

So last year, with their son now 8 years old, Sharmel began the Precious Hearts Academy in downtown San Bernardino. With some support from the public school system, she assembled a group of volunteers and teachers and taught six precious children through the year, learning, experimenting and developing strategies and skills. They have a capacity for 30 students this coming year, and we are encouraging our own students to volunteer and assist with this incredible venture. What a testament to the love of a mother and the determination of a professional to make a difference where it is needed. See their story on their website preciousheartsacademy.org.

The final heroes in this list are my friends Jamie and Shallena Crounse. I first became acquainted with them during Jamie’s medical school days, as they came to our Oak Glen Fellowship many Sabbaths and shared their dreams of serving abroad. We watched their son Jedediah come into this world and develop as Jamie worked his way through a combined family and preventive medicine residency program here. Then they accepted a position at Malamulo Hospital in Malawi as Loma Linda was developing this site into a major teaching hospital. Next Abigail joined the family, and Jamie was asked to be medical director at Malamulo. His gentle “Crounsespirit and understanding ways endeared him to the local people.

We were all shocked to hear the news that Shallena had developed breast cancer, but became hopeful again as we heard it was treated successfully and they returned to Malamulo. We rejoiced with the news of their third baby coming, and little Caleb was added to the family just a few weeks ago. Then came the devastating news that Shallena’s breast cancer had returned with a vengeance, rapidly advancing to stage 4 with metastases. With the courage that can only come from a deep faith and resilience, they are now facing an uncertain future as a family. Our hearts weep for the struggles this brings to them and the tough questions that must be answered. They will certainly fight with all the skill and energy given to us by God. The ever-widening prayer circle will hold them close as this story unfolds. You will be moved by Jamie’s understanding and compassion in his latest blog post.

True heroes, everyone. This is why Loma Linda grads ranked first in the nation when asked, “Does your job make the world a better place?” They are professionals, to be sure, but much more than that. They carry a passion and commitment that can only come from a sense of one’s role in this world and a recognition that God calls us to serve. Life is at its fullest when in that mode. Thank you Gillian, Sharmel and Jeevaka, Jamie and Shallena, for giving us that model of hope and courage in the face of adversity. Our prayers are with you.

Cordially yours,

“Richard

 

 

 

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

Office of the President, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350

Copyright © 2016 by Loma Linda University

llu.edu

]]>
Wed, 08 Jun 2016 17:34:04 -0700
4264:26698 <![CDATA[Ask a dietitian]]> Esmerelda Guerrero Celebrate National Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Month with the Living Whole Wellness Program at Loma Linda University Health.

In honor of this month, a dietitian will answer your top nutrition questions all month long. 

Proper diet and nutrition are important components of our overall health, but it can get confusing. With so many diets, eating plans and advice about food out there, it is easy to feel lost when it comes to what one should be eating. 

Have a general question about something nutrition-related?  Submit your questions at livingwhole@llu.edu.

Every week new questions and answers will be posted on the wholeness health plan’s website myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole/askadietitian.

]]>
Thu, 02 Jun 2016 10:22:33 -0700
4264:26704 <![CDATA[Devotional -- Let fear drive you to God]]> Kathy McMillan Editor’s note: As Loma Linda University Health begins a massive construction project to build the new adult and children’s hospital towers, the chaplains invite members of the campus to pray and fast each Tuesday, asking for God’s guidance and wisdom as we continue to grow. Below is a devotional from a series in News of the Week based on the biblical book of Nehemiah, in which Nehemiah faced a massive building project of his own.

***

“But I said, ‘Should a man like me run away? Or should someone like me go into the temple to save his life?  I will not go!’” Nehemiah 6:11

Fear can sometimes drive us to behaviors that we know are not wise. A young woman who fears losing her boyfriend writes a letter that only worsens the situation. An employee, afraid of an upcoming performance appraisal, begins criticizing colleagues in an ineffective effort to make himself look better. A husband, worried about his family’s financial stability, takes his last bit of savings and invests it in a risky financial scheme. A young mother, afraid of criticism of her parenting, retreats into isolation.

Fear is a powerful motivator, often to our detriment. In the midst of his rebuilding project, Nehemiah was repeatedly threatened and intimidated by a multitude of people who were trying to disrupt the progress. An acquaintance urged him to go hide in the temple for safety because people were coming to kill him. On the surface, it seemed like a reasonable thing to do. But Nehemiah responded that he would not run away to try and save his life.

Because Nehemiah knew that God had called him to rebuild the wall, he chose to trust God for safety. Even threats to his life didn’t cause him to run from his work. When we turn our fear over to God, it can actually become a tool for growth. Fear can teach us to deepen our dependence on God and surrender our need to be in control; and it can keep us from reacting to threats that are out of our control. It was good that Nehemiah did not respond to the urging of his acquaintance. He later learned that it was a trap set by his enemies who were hoping to discredit him.

As Loma Linda University Health continues to grow as an organization, we can expect changes in personnel and structure. Change can be frightening. It is imperative as we work together in our organization to know individually what God has called each of us to do. We can’t avoid hearing troubling news, but we can choose how we respond. Peace comes when we know our calling and are true to it. Safety comes when fear drives us to God. “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:13

Kathy McMillan, MA
Director
Employee spiritual care
Loma Linda University Medical Center

]]>
Thu, 02 Jun 2016 10:31:43 -0700
4264:26702 <![CDATA[Reading day camp early bird price lasts through June 14]]> Heather Reifsnyder The School of Allied Health Professions department of communication sciences and disorders is holding an intensive phonological awareness and literacy day camp July 18 through July 29.

The program is designed for incoming kindergarten through third-grade students who are either having difficulty in beginning reading and language or who are at-risk for difficulty with reading and language.

“Participants will have fun while focusing on the building blocks of reading: literature awareness, syllable awareness, rhyme awareness, segmenting and blending,” says Jennifer St. Clair, MS, assistant professor and director of clinical education, department of communication sciences and disorders. 

The early-bird cost is $75 per child for the two-week-long camp if registered before June 15. Register online at https://campscui.active.com/orgs/LomaLindaUniversity. Starting June 15, the price rises to $90 per child.

Morning sessions run from 9 a.m. to noon, with afternoon sessions taking place from 1 to 4 p.m.

For more information, e-mail jstclair@llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 02 Jun 2016 10:29:44 -0700
4264:26696 <![CDATA['Digital First' approach launched for news distribution]]> Larry Becker News about Loma Linda University Health has a new home online, as the office of public affairs has launched news.llu.edu on the Loma Linda University Health website.

This new site is a significant step in a new “digital first” approach to news distribution for the public affairs team. Visitors to the site will see current news from across the organization, updated on a regular basis. Since the news website went live in mid-April, new stories have been posted on the site at the rate of one per day.

New features available on the site include the ability to link stories to videos or other websites. A photo album feature allows dozens of photos to be posted with an article, particularly useful for events such as our recent groundbreaking or commencement ceremonies.

Other features include archives of Loma Linda’s print publications, a photo highlight of the day, an up-to-date calendar of campus events, and a special section for journalists who are looking for information about Loma Linda. 

While the entire public affairs team is constantly on the lookout for fresh content, if you have a story idea, you can send it by going to the Submit A Story Idea page.

]]>
Thu, 02 Jun 2016 10:20:27 -0700
4264:26700 <![CDATA[Public giving campaign launched for new hospital towers]]> Susan Onuma At the May 22 groundbreaking event for the new adult hospital and Children’s Hospital towers, Loma Linda University Health publicly launched Vision 2020: The Campaign for a WHOLE Tomorrow, asking the community to “Build Hope” by joining together to help build the new towers.

Through this campaign, Loma Linda University Health is appealing to the community to give online or get involved through various opportunities available; it is the first time in the history of the organization that the public was asked directly to support local children.

Junior philanthropist Ulysses Hsu was prominently featured during the groundbreaking celebration. Ulysses asked friends to make a donation to the hospital instead of bringing him birthday gifts and was featured both on stage and in a video during the program.

Ulysses told the crowd of more than 3,000 community members, elected officials and Loma Linda University Health administrators, staff, faculty and students that he was inspired to give to Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital after his friend was told he had cancer. He wisely informed the audience that 1) life is more important than gifts; 2) life lasts longer than gifts and toys, and; 3) he wanted to bring happiness to life and those children.

Ulysses also participated in the shovel lineup to break ground on the new facilities.

The new giving campaign ads on billboards, radio, television and magazines will feature real Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital patients, both current and past, making a direct plea for the community to “Give Now. Build Hope.” and visit the campaign site GiveVision2020.org. Ways to get involved range from donating your celebration funds to honoring a caregiver, from creating your own fundraising page to making a monthly gift to help Build Hope for our community, and more.

Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital is the sole children’s hospital for almost 1.2 million of California’s youth (San Bernardino, Riverside, Inyo and Mono counties). There will be 343 beds just for mothers and children when the new children’s tower is completed.

Each year, over 13,000 children stay at the hospital and over 75,000 children visit the hospital for ambulatory care.

The adult Medical Center is the only Level 1 trauma center in the same four-county region, providing quality health care to 40,000 inpatients and 1.5 million outpatients each year.

“Vision 2020: The Campaign for a WHOLE Tomorrow is a historic vision for the future of Loma Linda University Health,” says Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health. “We have been blessed with the continued support of our community and friends as we work to provide the best health care services possible.”

The new adult and Children’s Hospital towers are a part of a larger campus transformation project with an estimated cost of $1.4 billion. Beyond the Vision 2020 philanthropic campaign, additional funding for health care will come from state grants, bond financing and cash flow from operations.

]]>
Thu, 02 Jun 2016 10:26:54 -0700
4264:26694 <![CDATA[Three schools lead off 2016 commencement season]]> Courtney Haas The newest physicians, scientists, pharmacists and dental professionals joined the ranks of Loma Linda University alumni on Sunday, May 29.

Loma Linda University School of Medicine graduated 168 MD degrees, plus 25 basic sciences degrees. The School of Pharmacy recognized the accomplishments of 78 PharmD graduates, and the School of Dentistry awarded degrees to 190 dental professionals.

Commencement ceremonies were held on the campus lawn facing Coleman and Chan Shun pavilions. Additional Loma Linda University schools will celebrate commencement on Sunday, June 12, in the Drayson Center. 

To view photo galleries for each of the graduated schools, please click the links below.

]]>
Thu, 02 Jun 2016 09:45:35 -0700
4264:26653 <![CDATA[Groundbreaking draws over 3,000 ]]> Briana Pastorino and Heather Reifsnyder An expanded Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital and new adult Medical Center will open its doors to the community in 2020, and judging from the turnout to the May 22 groundbreaking event, community members are ready and eager.

More than 3,000 individuals attended the event, during which a ceremonial groundbreaking took place and a number of booths offered wholesome children’s activities, making it a festal day long to be remembered. See video of the event, and for photos, view the gallery at the bottom of this story

During the groundbreaking program, Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president, Loma Linda University Health, recapped the history of the organization, saying, “This institution was built through stages by visionary leaders who took the realities of their day and molded them into a strategy for the future.

 “Our hospitals are where our beliefs are put into action,” Hart continued, “where our knowledge, our expertise and our compassion come together to restore lives and families.”

Hart also announced the new hospital complex will be named after Dennis and Carol Troesh, who donated $100 million toward the philanthropic campaign benefiting the new hospital, Vision 2020: The Campaign for a WHOLE tomorrow.

“The new Loma Linda University Medical Center and expanded Children’s Hospital, which will be on the Dennis and Carol Troesh Medical Campus, will be an immediately recognizable icon for our region,” Hart said. “More importantly, it will exemplify the best in medical expertise and compassionate whole person care as we transform lives in this region and around the world, toward a healthier tomorrow.”

Rachelle Bussell, senior vice president of advancement, broke the news that more than $225 million has been raised toward the $360 million goal of the campaign. “Vision 2020 is the catalyst that brings together our vision for a whole tomorrow,” she said.

Kerry Heinrich, JD, CEO, of LLU Medical Center, boasted how behind the walls of the new hospital facility, new discoveries will be made that will advance medical care. Standing 16 floors and spanning a distance longer than a football field, this facility, Heinrich said, “will be an instantly recognizable icon. More importantly, it will stand as a beacon of hope for all of us, and especially those who are facing their darkest hour.”

Following the program, a group of officials and donors dipped into the red-brown earth with ceremonial golden shovels, making a historic step toward completion of the hospital in 2020.

The rest of the afternoon was a blur of the sights and sounds of happy children and their parents partaking in the activity booths, such as an obstacle course, a petting zoo and a building block station. Children could be seen potting flowers and vegetable seeds, constructing towers of their own, zipping down a bouncy slide or grabbing an apple from the healthy snack station. 

Loma Linda University Health thanks all those who attended the groundbreaking, making the day unforgettable.

]]>
Thu, 26 May 2016 09:56:48 -0700
4264:26625 <![CDATA[A day to rest and remember]]> Courtney Haas If planning ahead to stop by campus departments such as fleet and transportation, payroll or student services this upcoming week, plan accordingly as all administrative and support offices will be closed Memorial Day, May 30, and will resume normal office hours Tuesday, May 31. 

Memorial Day is more than just a day away from the office, though. It is the opportunity to remember and recognize the veterans who have chosen to serve this country.

Kerry Heinrich, JD, CEO of Loma Linda University Medical Center, issued a video statement expressing his appreciation to all veterans, including many of Loma Linda University Health’s employees and patients.   

“We are honored to call you our friends, our colleagues, our patients. Thank you and thank you for the difference you have made for this country,” he said.   

To see the full video, click here.

]]>
Wed, 25 May 2016 15:10:55 -0700
4264:26648 <![CDATA[Devotional -- No Way Out ]]> Terry Swenson Editor’s note: As Loma Linda University Health begins a massive construction project to build the new adult and children’s hospital towers, the chaplains invite members of the campus to pray and fast each Tuesday, asking for God’s guidance and wisdom as we continue to grow. Below is a devotional from a series in News of the Week based on the biblical book of Nehemiah, in which Nehemiah faced a massive building project of his own.

***

“They were just trying to intimidate us, imagining that they could break our resolve and stop the work. So I prayed for strength to continue the work.” –Nehemiah 6:9

Most days we can handle the daily glitches — alarms that don’t go off, traffic congestion, irritating customers, coworkers or fellow students, those unexpected hits on our budgets. They are distracting, but not destructive. Then there are those moments in our lives when troubles fall like hailstones that batter us to the ground. 

At those times, it feels like everyone and everything are working against you. It can cause you to feel isolated, abandoned, angry and overwhelmed. Stop for a moment, take a look at your life and identify which of the following best describes what you are experiencing — is it a pit or a tunnel?

I identified with “a pit.” In the not too distant past, I went through a season when everything (and I mean everything) was falling apart. I was broken. I was done. I went to a place where God and I could be alone. I poured out my brokenness to Him. “Father, I feel like I’m falling into a deep dark crater with jagged rocks at the bottom and I’m going to be crushed! Help me!” I sat in silence waiting. For what, I don’t know. Maybe some kind of earth shaking miracle or an angel to sweep me up in their arms. But nothing. Silence.

Then it happened. A thought popped in my head. Well … really, if I am to be honest, a voice said to me, “You’re not in a pit. You are in a tunnel.” Not exactly the miraculous intervention that I was hoping for! Yet, as I thought of what it meant, I realized those words were miraculous. Think about it. A tunnel is a hole, just like a pit. A tunnel is dark, just like a pit. But that is where the similarities end. Whereas a pit has an abrupt ending with no way out, a tunnel is a pathway that has a way out. A tunnel is the easiest way to pass through, under or around any obstacle in our journey.

After that realization sunk in, I then I heard “I’m walking through the tunnel with you. And I’m holding your hand.”

Our life journey will always encounter moments of hardships, disappointments and trials. It is the plan of the adversary of our hearts to use them to intimidate us, to break our resolve, to get us to let go of God’s hand — just like the enemies of Nehemiah sought to end his mission and work.

Once more we can find encouragement and solidarity with Nehemiah. During the 52 days of his building project he was tempted to see the challenges he faced as being down in a dangerous, solitary bottomless pit. Nehemiah used the challenges he encountered as an opportunity to refocus more intently on the Lord, and he received strength for the things he faced.

Whatever you are confronting today in your personal life, in your finances or in your work setting, just remember that you are not in a pit, you are in a tunnel. God is leading you through to exactly the place you need to be.

Terry Swenson, DMin
Campus chaplain
Loma Linda University

]]>
Thu, 26 May 2016 09:32:54 -0700
4264:26636 <![CDATA[The Red Zone: A firsthand account of a surgeon who risked all during Liberia's Ebola crisis]]> Courtney Haas Loma Linda University School of Medicine's class of 2016 will host a special presentation on the 2014 Ebola crisis in Africa. The talk will take place Saturday, May 28, at 4:30 p.m. in the Centennial Complex’s Damazo Amphitheater.

Gillian Seton, MD, the School of Medicine 2016 commencement speaker, will share her story of working as a deferred mission appointee at Cooper Seventh-day Adventist Hospital in Monrovia, Liberia.

Seton began her journey early in 2014 shortly before the Ebola outbreak erupted. No sooner had she begun to settle in when the virus rapidly spread throughout Liberia and several of the surrounding countries, totaling over 28,000 suspected, probable and confirmed cases of Ebola, of which 10,678 were in Liberia.

Despite the opportunity to pack up and leave, Seton declined recommendations to return to the safety of the U.S. Instead she fought to keep the hospital operational. She insisted on staying even when the referral was made to close the hospital doors to the public. Seton believed the value of remaining open outweighed the danger of remaining in the country. With hard work, determination, and grit provided by Seton and her local team of health care professionals, Cooper remained open as a non-Ebola treatment facility. It served as the only hospital to remain open to non-Ebola illnesses in the country when all other hospitals were transformed into Ebola treatment centers.

Rewind to 2013, nearly three years ago, when the class of 2016 elected to adopt Cooper as its class project. Since that time, the class members have done extensive fundraising, much of which went toward supporting the needs of the hospital during the peak of the Ebola outbreak. Since taking on the project, the class has raised over $60,000 and is hoping to continue supporting the hospital in the future even beyond graduation. 

This Saturday afternoon event will be filled with stories of struggle and hope as Seton relives her experience and shares why she chooses to continue serving today.

To learn more about this event and see how you can become involved with supporting the work in Liberia, click here.

]]>
Wed, 25 May 2016 16:53:22 -0700
4264:26651 <![CDATA[Time lapse: the day after groundbreaking]]> Advancement films ]]> View the takedown of the groundbreaking area and resumption of construction in under 13 seconds. 

]]>
Thu, 26 May 2016 09:36:34 -0700
4264:26650 <![CDATA[Video -- flyover at groundbreaking]]> Advancement films ]]> Four planes from the Tiger Squadron executed a flyover at the May 22 hospital groundbreaking. Video length: 1:43

]]>
Thu, 26 May 2016 09:35:40 -0700
4264:26647 <![CDATA[Graduation weekend]]> Courtney Haas Whether planning to attend as a student, faculty member, supportive family member or caring friend, don’t forget to cheer on your favorite graduates from Loma Linda University schools of Medicine, Pharmacy and Dentistry this weekend during hooding ceremonies, baccalaureate services, and commencement events.

For anyone unable to attend the graduations in person, there are several options for viewing. First you can access the GradCast by clicking here, and also a new option is available that allows for viewing the commencement ceremonies live on Loma Linda University Health’s mobile app. Download LLUH Mobile for Android here and Apple here.

To view the full commencement schedule, please click here. And for information about speakers and other program information, visit http://home.llu.edu/academics/commencement

]]>
Thu, 26 May 2016 09:22:42 -0700
4264:26649 <![CDATA[Groundbreaking highlight video]]> Advancement films ]]> See five hours of the May 22 hospital groundbreaking activities highlighted in four minutes.

]]>
Thu, 26 May 2016 09:34:34 -0700
4264:26652 <![CDATA[Human resource management returns ...]]> Heather Reifsnyder The department of talent management services at Loma Linda University Health has heard employee feedback. Thus, the department will be changing its name back to human resource management.

That is just one change in progress at the department. The list includes debuting a new service center and HR compliance team in the near future, to be led by Jerome Kabayiza, MA.

“Under this new concept, you will only have to remember ‘one email, one phone number and one website,’” says Lizette Norton, MBA, assistant vice president for human resource management. 

“We are currently in progress of making all of this a reality, and we hope to be live in the next few months,” Norton says. 

The department of human resource management has also had a number of personnel changes:

• First, Lizette Norton joined the team in March 2016 after having previously served in the same position from 2001 to 2010. 

• Patricia Larios-Gil has transitioned to work for the Adventist HealthCare Retirement Plan. She will still be on campus at Loma Linda University Health as a representative of the plan to Loma Linda employees.

• Renee Royer will join human resource management, coming from the payroll department. In HR, she will lead the benefits and compensation team.

• Jamie DeView, MS, is transitioning from Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta, where she has served as executive director for human resources. She will now lead the talent acquisition and engagement team in human resource management on the main campus. 

]]>
Thu, 26 May 2016 09:51:33 -0700
4264:26492 <![CDATA[The internet: protect yourself]]> Loma Linda University Health will offer a webinar Wednesday, May 25, about protecting oneself and one’s family online.

Taking the necessary steps for protection may seem daunting, especially to those who are less familiar with technology or the internet. However, there are simple ways to do so.

The free presentation by Rick Duvall will take place from 5:30 to 6:00 p.m., May 25, at myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole/wellnesslive.

]]>
Thu, 19 May 2016 10:41:06 -0700
4264:26504 <![CDATA[eCard system for Nurses Week proves our nurses are the best]]> Courtney Haas and Heather Reifsnyder From handing a new mother her baby to holding the hand of a cancer patient, nurses play a vital role in supporting the foundation of a health care system like Loma Linda University Health. Hospital and physician office operation is made possible by the quality care that nurses invest each day at their jobs.

For National Nurses Week, which Loma Linda University Health celebrated May 9 through 14, the organization created a nurse appreciation eCard system that allowed staff members to recognize specific Loma Linda nurses. With 1,465 cards sent out, there were a total of 946 honorees recognized by 283 senders.

Senders had the option to send cards with personalized messages to the recipient of their choice, or they could choose from a series of pre-written cards with messages such as “Your attitude and work ethic makes a big difference!” (the most popular choice) and “My day would not be complete without you here.” 

Nurse Allison Ong was the most recognized individual, while the Total Care Birth Center was the department with the most nurses singled out. Two hundred and sixty-seven nurses received more than one card each. Congratulations to our dedicated nursing staff.

]]>
Thu, 19 May 2016 11:30:30 -0700
4264:26496 <![CDATA[Devotional -- Never Forgotten]]> Dilys Brooks Editor’s note: As Loma Linda University Health begins a massive construction project to build the new adult and children’s hospital towers, the chaplains invite members of the campus to pray and fast each Tuesday, asking for God’s guidance and wisdom as we continue to grow. Below is a devotional from a series in News of the Week based on the biblical book of Nehemiah, in which Nehemiah faced a massive building project of his own.

***

“Remember me, my God, for good, according to all that I have done for this people.” Nehemiah 5:19

There are times when it seems that no one notices the sacrifices we make or the manner in which we go above and beyond what is required of us in fulfilling our roles and responsibilities. Loma Linda University Health consists of about 15,000 employees who go about the business of living out the mission of the organization. We are in the business of providing health care for hundreds of people while preparing our 4,000 students for their own careers in health care. At times, it may appear as if no one understands the herculean tasks being placed before us to produce more with less when we already feel as if our heads are barely above water.

Once more we turn to Nehemiah, who faced similar challenges over the 12 years he served as project manager, governor, head of security, representative of the king and benefactor. He understood what it meant to do more with less, even facing derision from within and without the community. Yet I find comfort in the last verse of chapter 5 where Nehemiah presents his case before the Lord in prayer. He simply asks God to remember. 

We too have the same access to God through prayer. When we find ourselves feeling overworked and overlooked, stressed out and burnt out, we can say, “Remember me, my God!”

Friends and colleagues, your distress and your hard work are not unnoticed. While the easing of the burdens and the reassignments may seem a long way off, please take courage in the knowledge that even when you can’t pray, God does see and remembers you.

“God’s strength behind you, His concern for you, His love within you, and His arms beneath you are more than sufficient for the job ahead of you.” –William Arthur Ward

“The same everlasting Father who cares for you today will take care of you tomorrow, and every day. Either He will shield you from suffering, or He will give you unfailing strength to bear it.” –St. Francis de Sales 

“See, I have inscribed you on the palms of My hands; Your walls are continually before Me.” Isaiah 49:16

Dilys Brooks, MDiv
Associate campus chaplain
Loma Linda University

]]>
Thu, 19 May 2016 10:49:37 -0700
4264:26500 <![CDATA[How to watch groundbreaking over TV and the internet]]> Heather Reifsnyder The groundbreaking of Loma Linda University Health’s new adult and expanded Children’s Hospital towers this Sunday, May 22, from 2 to 5 p.m. will be a historical event not to be missed.

For those unable to attend in person, the event will be broadcast live on television and online, both on campus and off.

It will be live-streamed on Loma Linda University Health's groundbreaking website.

Additionally, Loma Linda Broadcasting Network (LLBN) will begin coverage of the event at 2 p.m. Below is how to view it on LLBN. 

On campus

Patients, staff and students can view LLBN on campus channel 17. This can be seen in locations including the Medical Center, Children’s Hospital, East Campus, Surgical Hospital and Behavioral Medicine Center.

Off campus

From their homes, members of the public can view LLBN several ways:

• Glorystar Christian satellite channel 105
• Cable/Verizon FiOS/via antenna (Time Warner Cable in Loma Linda: channel 17; Verizon FiOS in Loma Linda and surrounding cities: channel 31)
• Online at www.llbn.tv, and
• On Roku under BrightStar TV.

Additionally, follow the groundbreaking on social media with #LLUHgroundbreaking.

]]>
Thu, 19 May 2016 11:08:58 -0700
4264:26494 <![CDATA[Alumna appointed as Florida surgeon general]]> Heather Reifsnyder An alumna of Loma Linda University, Celeste Philip, MD, MPH, is now surgeon general for the state of Florida and its 20 million residents. Following her appointment in March as interim surgeon general, Gov. Rick Scott made her position permanent May 18.

In announcing her appointment, Scott lauded Philip’s proactivity in making a statewide tour to meet with community health leaders and her efforts to combat the possible spread of the Zika virus.

Philip is also president-elect of the American Heart Association’s Greater Southeast Affiliate and serves on the Health Initiatives Committee Advisory Group to the Florida Board of Governors.

Another recent honor for Philip was her naming as 2016 Florida Outstanding Woman in Public Health by the University of South Florida College of Public Health.

Gov. Rick Scott said at the time, “Dr. Celeste Philip has dedicated her career to improving the health and wellness of our state so Florida can be the healthiest place for all our families and visitors.” 

Philip graduated from Loma Linda University in 2001 with her master of public health degree in maternal and child health, and again in 2003 with her MD degree. She received her bachelor’s degree from Howard University. She holds certifications from the American Board of Preventive Medicine and the American Board of Family Medicine.

Philip has held numerous positions at the Florida Department of Health including deputy secretary for health and deputy state health officer for Children’s Medical Services.

She previously worked for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Loma Linda University congratulates Surgeon General Philip. 

]]>
Thu, 19 May 2016 10:46:38 -0700
4264:26490 <![CDATA[Save your coins ...]]> Briana Pastorino and Heather Reifsnyder An empty construction truck will be waiting this Sunday, May 22, at the groundbreaking of Loma Linda University Health’s new adult and expanded Children’s Hospital towers. 

The truck will be filled, not with dirt or construction materials, but spare coins or other amounts of cash tossed in by guests, allowing them to the contribute to the building project.

“This is our way of allowing the community be a part of the efforts to help children in the community,” says Kerry Heinrich, JD, CEO, of Loma Linda University Medical Center. “Kids and families who help us fill the truck will be able to say they helped Loma Linda build a new hospital.” 

The family-friendly event will run from 2 to 5 p.m., with the formal program taking place at 2:30 p.m. For the kids, the afternoon will include obstacle courses, face painting and a petting zoo. Families can enjoy free giveaways, cooking demonstrations and a sneak peek of the new Children’s Hospital.

Find more event details at groundbreaking.lluh.org or call 1-877-LLUMC-4U, and view the promotional video here.

Follow the event on social media using #LLUHGroundbreaking.

]]>
Thu, 19 May 2016 10:38:02 -0700
4264:26498 <![CDATA[It's here: groundbreaking this Sunday]]> Briana Pastorino A day years in the making is upon us: Loma Linda University Health will break ground on its new adult and Children’s Hospital towers this Sunday, May 22, from 2 to 5 p.m. The formal program will begin at 2:30 p.m.

One and all are invited to come and celebrate the future of health care in the local region.

The event will be a day of health and wholeness for the entire family. Join the activities including obstacle courses, face painting and a petting zoo. Families can enjoy free giveaways, cooking demonstrations and a sneak peek of the new Children’s Hospital.

The groundbreaking will signify the beginning of construction on the new state-of-the-art facilities where the community will receive the quality, compassionate, whole person care that Loma Linda University Health is known for.

Find more event details at groundbreaking.lluh.org or call 1-877-LLUMC-4U. And view the promotional video here.

Additionally, follow the event on social media using #LLUHGroundbreaking.

The new hospital complex will reside in what was once the patient parking lot of LLU Medical Center on the northwest corner of Anderson Street and Barton Road. The complex will house a new Children’s Hospital tower and a new adult tower, which will meet California seismic requirements that the current adult hospital does not meet for inpatient care.

“The current adult hospital is nearly 50 years old,” says Richard Hart, MD, PhD, president, Loma Linda University Health. “It no longer meets the needs of our students and patients at the level we desire. This challenge to be compliant has been turned into an incredible opportunity to serve our community and world for the next 50 years and beyond.”

In addition to meeting the needs of the changing health care environment, the new hospital complex will boast the newest technology and expanded research capacity:

  • At 267 feet tall, the hospital will be the tallest building in San Bernardino County.
  • The hospital towers will move with seismic forces atop 126 base isolators.
  • This will be the first hospital in California to have OSHPD-approved individual nursing stations located outside patients’ rooms for total care.
  • The new hospital will be 16 stories tall plus one basement floor and a helipad.
  • It will offer 100 percent private patient rooms.
  • To maximize care, there will be separate adult and children’s emergency departments.
  • Plans include an expanded Total Care Birth Center and neonatal ICU.
  • The 16th floor will contain an education and conference center.
  • Upon completion, the total licensed bed count will be 693 in the adult and Children’s Hospitals.
  • This will be the second largest medical center in California.
  • For the next four years, this will be the largest hospital project in California.

 

]]>
Thu, 19 May 2016 11:03:42 -0700
4264:26438 <![CDATA[4th annual Community Health & Fun Fair]]> Courtney Haas and Susan Onuma Get healthy the fun way at the fourth annual Highland Springs Community Health & Fun Fair.

The event, taking place on Sunday, May 15, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Highland Springs Medical Plaza in the Beaumont facility’s parking lot — 81 S. Highland Springs Ave. — will provide attendees the opportunity to take part in educational health demonstrations with more than 10 free health screenings, free food samples, child safety presentations by the California Highway Patrol, veteran’s services counseling by the San Diego field office of the US Department of Veterans Affairs, fire safety demonstrations, a fire truck tour and so much more.

In addition to the gaining an awareness of healthier living, visitors will be entertained with presentations by children from AAU Tumbling, Limitless Dance, Heart & Soul Line Dance and Shozen Karate.

Children will also be enthused to take part in the festivities as they enjoy activities such as face painting, balloon animals, a petting zoo and a train they can actually ride through the event.

This event is a collaboration between Loma Linda University Health, Beaver Medical Group, San Gorgonio Memorial Hospital and Redlands Community Hospital. All are invited to attend. So pack up the family and enjoy the free food, free activities, free health screenings and free fun.

Learn more about Highland Springs Medical Plaza at highlandspringsmedicalplaza.org.

]]>
Thu, 12 May 2016 10:52:45 -0700
4264:26422 <![CDATA[Devotional -- Do the Right Thing ]]> Kathy McMillan Editor’s note: As Loma Linda University Health begins a massive construction project to build the new adult and children’s hospital towers, the chaplains invite members of the campus to pray and fast each Tuesday, asking for God’s guidance and wisdom as we continue to grow. Below is a devotional from a series in News of the Week based on the biblical book of Nehemiah, in which Nehemiah faced a massive building project of his own.

***

“He has told you, O mortal, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you, but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” Micah 6:8

Justice is a moral imperative. It’s tempting to read Micah and interpret it to mean that we need to be treated with more respect, or we need to get what we think we deserve. But the verse talks about doing justice, not receiving it — and there is a big difference. God is calling us to live with integrity and treat people justly.

Nehemiah chapter 5 continues the story of rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. A group of workers came to Nehemiah, complaining that they were going into debt in order to purchase food to feed their families and pay the king’s taxes.

Nehemiah was incensed when he learned that it was other Jews who were charging them interest on their loans and increasing their debt load to the point that they were losing their property.

He took up their cause, calling together the Jewish officials. Chastising them, he bluntly said, “What you are doing is not right. Shouldn’t you walk in the fear of our God … ?” (verse 9). He proceeded to give instructions that they must return the fields and olive groves to the original owners and stop charging interest. It was a bold move! But Nehemiah saw the injustice that was occurring and stepped in to remedy the situation.

Justice is defined as righteousness, equitableness or moral rightness. In a sense, God calls us to be moral compasses in the world, helping to ensure that others are treated fairly. Christians, above all people, know the worth of a person because God died for each one. We have the privilege to make certain that they are treated rightly. When we witness others being diminished, it is our responsibility to step in and speak the truth. One of our greatest joys can come from making certain that each person in our circle of influence is treated like the child of the King that they are!

Kathy McMillan, MA
Director
Employee spiritual care
Loma Linda University Medical Center

]]>
Thu, 12 May 2016 09:24:31 -0700
4264:26424 <![CDATA[Grow Together introduces Ollie ... and a May restaurant promotion ]]> Darin West After two rounds of voting, employees chose Ollie as the name for the Grow Together mascot at Loma Linda University Health. Ollie was the clear winner with 28 percent of the vote, while Citro was a close second with 20 percent of the vote.

Ollie made his debut at the Loma Linda University benefits fair May 2 and will appear at other events throughout the year.

Grow Together, the employee giving program, is also happy to announce the return of its restaurant promotion.

For the month of May, several local restaurants have agreed to give Grow Together participants a small discount. Just present your Grow Together badge clip at the register to receive your discount.

Participating restaurants include:

Augie’s Coffee — 10 percent off
Napoli Italian Restaurant — 10 percent off for up to 10 people
Red Hot Kitchen — 10 percent off
Surfer Joe’s — 10 percent off
Taco Shack — 10 percent off
Yogurtlicious — 10 percent off 

If you participate in Grow Together but misplaced your badge clip, send an email to growtogether@llu.edu for a replacement.

Grow Together — the employee giving program led by a passionate group of employee volunteers and philanthropy staff — provides an opportunity for Loma Linda University Health employees to give back and support their passion.

To learn more about Grow Together, visit llugrow.org.

]]>
Thu, 12 May 2016 09:27:53 -0700
4264:26416 <![CDATA[Children's Day draws over 1,400]]> Briana Pastorino Over 1,400 kids and their chaperones from the community filled the campus lawn during the 31st annual Children’s Day, presented by Farmer Boys, at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital on Wednesday, May 4.

The free event, designed for kids aged 3-8, was attended by at least 11 schools and day cares in the Inland Empire. Every year since 1985, Children’s Day has been providing hands-on learning activities to give kids non-threatening exposure to a hospital setting.

Organized by the Children’s Hospital child life department, the event offered various booths designed just for kids, including:

  • Teddy bear clinic: Kids were encouraged to bring their own doll or teddy bear for a “check up.”
  • Stitch station: Children learned about having stitches.  They were given an opportunity to be the “doctor” placing stitches on a paper person.
  • Pretend finger casting: Kids got to see what getting a cast is like at this booth provided by Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital child life department.
  • Fire safety: Provided by the department of environmental health and safety, the fire safety booth taught kids how to extinguish a fire using water and fire balloons.
  • Dental health: LLU School of Dentistry provided tips and demonstrations on oral care with stuffed animals.
  • Transport team: LLU Children’s Hospital pediatric transport team shared the lifesaving measures used to transport babies and kids to and from the hospital.
  • Sports injury awareness, and automobile and car seat safety with Safe Kids
  • Dr. Hayes’ venomous creatures: Professor of Earth and Biological Sciences Bill Hayes, PhD, held a show and tell session with his array of creatures including rattlesnakes, lizards and more.
]]>
Thu, 12 May 2016 09:18:48 -0700
4264:26414 <![CDATA[May commencement schedule]]> Larry Kidder Anticipation is raising the pulse of Loma Linda University's class of 2016, as well as the faculty, staff, family members and friends who will cheer them from the sidelines.

Approximately 1,500 graduates from programs across the spectrum of health care will march in eight commencement programs during the weekends of May 28-29 and June 10-12. Degrees granted will range from certificates to post-doctoral studies.

May 28–29 weekend events

On Saturday, May 28, the baccalaureate service for the School of Dentistry and School of Pharmacy will begin at 9:00 a.m. at Loma Linda University Church. At 11:45 a.m., the School of Medicine will hold its baccalaureate.

In keeping with the spiritual emphasis of Loma Linda University in continuing the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ, the baccalaureate service provides an opportunity for graduates to reflect on their experience on campus, as well as renew their spiritual focus for the next stages of their careers. 

Sunday, May 29, will feature three outdoor conferring-of-degrees ceremonies on the lawn between Prince Hall, LLU Church, Coleman/Chan Shun Pavilions and the Good Samaritan sculpture.

8:30 a.m. — School of Medicine (speaker: Gillian Seton, MD)

1:30 p.m. — School of Pharmacy (speaker: Gerald Winslow, PhD, MA)

5:00 p.m. — School of Dentistry (speaker: Carol Gomez Summerhays, DDS)

For speaker bios, visit news.llu.edu/education/loma-linda-university-health-prepares-for-commencement-season.

Commencement services for the Schools of Allied Health Professions, Behavioral Health, Nursing, Public Health and Religion will take place June 11 and 12. Stay tuned to News of the Week for more details.  

]]>
Thu, 12 May 2016 09:16:24 -0700
4264:26304 <![CDATA[Searching for the grand staircase -- video]]> Advancement films ]]> What did the searchers discover of the staircase that swept up to the original sanitarium on the hill? Find out in in this video, taken during the May 1 search.

]]>
Wed, 04 May 2016 15:31:20 -0700
4264:26308 <![CDATA[Remember -- a devotional by Chaplain Terry Swenson]]> Terry Swenson Editor’s note: As Loma Linda University Health begins a massive construction project to build the new adult and children’s hospital towers, the chaplains invite members of the campus to pray and fast each Tuesday, asking for God’s guidance and wisdom as we continue to grow. Below is a devotional based on the biblical book of Nehemiah, in which Nehemiah faced a massive building project of his own.

***

FEAR. Media is full of it — locally, nationally, internationally. Fear invades every aspect of our existence. We fear for our jobs and finances. We fear violence in the streets and road rage on our highways. We fear diseases and disasters. We fear for the lives and directions of our children and loved ones. We fear for our own hearts and lives. And from our human perspective, we fear for good reasons. How do we face and overcome the hardship and woes that we constantly face in life? It is above and beyond our resources and capabilities.

That is exactly where our problem lies. We are looking to ourselves. We are looking to what we can do or whom we know or what we can control. And we fall short. The “enemy” looms great and mighty and dark and overwhelming. The words of Nehemiah in the Bible — though spoken so long ago — speak loud and true to us, today:

“Don’t be afraid of the enemy! Remember the Lord, who is great and glorious, and fight for your friends, your families and your homes!” –Nehemiah 4:14 

Nehemiah is telling us that there are two things we need to do. The first is remember the Lord. Our problem is one of perspective and focus. Don’t focus on yourself and your capabilities. Focus on the Lord! Don’t count on your limited resources. Focus on the Lord who owns heaven and earth! If He is for us, then there is nothing that can stand in our way or overcome us.

Did you notice that there is more for us to do than just call out to God? There is more for us to do than just remember His power and His promises. We are called to act on our beliefs. Nehemiah tells us to roll up our sleeves and lean into the problems and difficulties we encounter. He tells us to fight for the people in our lives that matter most to us — the people in our homes and the people we work with and for every day.

It matters not what you are facing this day. Remember that God is with you and He loves you. Remember that there is NOTHING we face that — through Him and with Him — we can’t overcome and be victorious. Nothing.

Terry Swenson, DMin
Campus chaplain
Loma Linda University

]]>
Wed, 04 May 2016 15:36:55 -0700
4264:26310 <![CDATA[You cannot ignore these cute kids inviting you to attend groundbreaking]]> ]]> For a smile, watch this video invitation to the Sunday, May 22 groundbreaking of the new adult and children’s hospital towers -- and then attend. The family event runs from 2 to 5 p.m. with a preview of the facilities, a ceremonial groundbreaking, food trucks, healthy cooking demonstrations, children’s activities and a chance to win a family vacation. Visit groundbreaking.lluh.org for more information.

]]>
Wed, 04 May 2016 16:15:23 -0700
4264:26311 <![CDATA[Loma Linda University Health helps community discover 'Your Best Pathway to Health']]> Nancy Yuen An online search for the phrase “a hurting world” returns 1.34 million results, many connecting religion to humanity.  

The meaning of these words became visible last week when, from April 27 to 29, 8,537 uninsured and under insured persons in need of health care visited Your Best Pathway to Health (YBPH) — Los Angeles.

The three-day mega clinic was held at the Los Angeles Convention Center. Hundreds of volunteers from Loma Linda University Health helped staff it.

The goal was to offer free, comprehensive health care to as many people as possible. Specialties included cardiology, dentistry, infectious disease screening, orthopedics, physical therapy, vision care and women’s health (OB-GYN). On-site services included cardiac stress testing, radiography, ultrasound, vision screening and clinical lab tests. Each participant also received personalized lifestyle coaching in areas such as smoking cessation, weight loss and nutrition.

In early 2016, YBPH organizers asked Loma Linda University Health to provide as many volunteers as possible to meet the estimated 3,000 that would be needed to staff the event, which would be held nearly 60 miles from Loma Linda University Health.

Two informational sessions were held at Loma Linda University Health in January, one for faculty and staff, and a second for students.

Faculty, students and staff from throughout Loma Linda University responded. On clinic days, groups organized by the Schools of Allied Health Professions, Behavioral Health, Dentistry, Nursing and Public Health joined volunteers from the departments of OB-GYN, pharmacy, clinical lab and surgery as well as staff from the Institute for Community Partnerships and Community-Academic Partners in Service.

They and volunteers from Loma Linda University Church were among the more than 4,400 individuals who traveled to Los Angeles by Metrolink, in personal vehicles and on chartered buses and vans, leaving as early as 5 a.m. to arrive at the Convention Center and be in place by 7 a.m., when the doors opened.

Nurse practitioner student Sandra Edpao worked in the primary care section, focusing much attention on educating the patients about issues such as diabetes, hypertension and healthy eating.

“It was definitely rewarding to see patients' faces light up as they learned new tips and information that will benefit their health and ultimately enhance their quality of life,” Edpao says. “All of our patients expressed deep appreciation for our care, and there were many poignant moments for patients and providers alike. I felt honored to have had the opportunity to serve, teach and inspire hope within these people who operate their lives with so little.” 

“So many times when we think of providing service we think of traveling far away,” says Juan Carlos Belliard, PhD, MPH, director, Institute for Community Partnerships. “This event provided a powerful opportunity to make our students aware of the great need that exists in our own neighborhoods, close to where we live, work and study.”

Among the thousands of volunteers were church members who met at the Olympic Korean Seventh-day Adventist Church where they prepared sack breakfasts for the volunteers.

Tony Yang, director of marketing, School of Medicine, and pastor of the English ministry at Olympic Korean Seventh-day Adventist Church, was among the volunteers.

“It was easy to focus on the ‘what’ — our task of packing 1,600 meals each day,” he emphasizes. “But as I saw how many people the clinic was helping, God helped me to see the ‘why.’ The meals were a small way to give the volunteers strength and energy to do their work. And through their healing ministry, lots of people saw Jesus. That’s what it’s all about, and it made it all worthwhile.”

]]>
Wed, 04 May 2016 17:35:32 -0700
4264:26306 <![CDATA[Nurses Week -- May 9 to 14]]> Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Health is celebrating Nurses Week May 9 through 14. And nurses are the heart of the institution, according to Jan Kroetz, MN, chief nursing officer, Loma Linda University Medical Center. 

“They provide comfort and care to our patient 24/7 in both inpatient and outpatient settings,” she says. “This week I want to recognize their outstanding work and thank them for all that they do as they continue the healing ministry of Jesus Christ. “

Loma Linda University Health has planned a number of activities at the main campus, Behavioral Medicine Center and Murrieta. These include educational events with contact hours, freebies and teas. Learn more in the downloadable flier below.

Nurses are known for their compassion, their strength and their excellence. And what do nurses really do? They protect, promote and optimize health. They prevent illness and injury, facilitate healing, alleviate suffering and advocate for patients and communities, according to the American Nurses Association.

In other words, they are essential to the success of any health care organization. They get the job done. As founder of modern nursing Florence Nightingale put it, “I attribute my success to this — I never gave or took any excuse.” 

]]>
Wed, 04 May 2016 15:33:32 -0700
4264:26335 <![CDATA[Notes from the President -- our biggest undertaking yet]]> Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   May 2016
THIS IS THE VERY PLACE. NOW IS THE TIME.

I was sitting next to Lyn Behrens, our former president, at a reception recently. We were chatting about current issues and I commented, complained actually, that it seemed as though Loma Linda University Health was always facing a major challenge of some type. As one“Richard who has experienced her own share of institutional concerns, she acknowledged this fact, but instead of sympathizing with me, she responded, “I am convinced that these are from God — to keep us dependent on Him.”

If that is the case, and I totally accept the premise, He has given us a big one — bigger than any of us can see our way completely through. Because the time has now come when we are ready to launch the biggest building program in Loma Linda’s history — by far. In fact it is one of the biggest in the health care industry across the entire country.

But before we look forward, let’s look back; we have come through these challenges before. Certainly the first crisis had to be the founding years — 1905-1910. Faced with insurmountable obstacles, in a country determined to shut down struggling medical schools, the fact that we survived at all is truly a miracle.

Probably the next era of crisis was getting our medical school accredited in the 1920s. The institution turned to a passionate Irishman, Percy Magan, to lead us through these stormy years. He helped find faculty, build a clinical campus in Los Angeles, and convince the skeptics that we were academically solid.

Then the long debate began in the 1950s about consolidating the Los Angeles and Loma Linda campuses. After many board meetings and multiple decisions both ways, the board turned to David Hinshaw to build a new hospital at Loma Linda and unify the campus. I had the privilege of watching that building be completed in 1967 as a freshman medical student, at a final cost of around $19 million.

And now we have our latest challenge, which we have been discussing for over a decade. This is “Medicalnot one we chose. It was forced on us by the new California seismic requirements for hospitals. We have to replace our iconic cloverleaf adult hospital building by the year 2020. It became clear that before we could even start to build we had to achieve new operating efficiencies in our health care activities, line up major financial commitments, create a more efficient governance structure, establish new clinical partnerships to ensure patient referrals in a rapidly changing health care environment, and expand our clinical capacity.

The last five years have seen major progress in each of these areas, giving us confidence we are now ready to take the final big step and start construction. And our reputation has never been stronger — locally, nationally and globally.

There are four major funding streams that had to come together to enable this goal. The first was to secure the $165 million in bond funds allocated for our Children’s Hospital by the State of California. Two weeks ago that was finally confirmed, just in time.

We also needed to have confidence we could raise $200 million in philanthropic support by 2020 toward expansion of the hospital facilities. We have now raised $140 million toward that goal.  This is part of the total philanthropic goal of $360 million in the Vision 2020 campaign, which includes other projects at the medical center and university. The overall campaign has now crossed $220 million raised.     

Next, we had to get our operating efficiencies to the point where we could put $105 million from clinical operations each year toward this project. We are now achieving that goal.

And finally, we knew we would have to go to the bond market to borrow the balance needed. Last week this was completed, just at a time when bond interest rates were at a 50-year low. With great bidding from many investment houses, we achieved a very favorable blended interest rate of 4.84 percent.

Even the investors joined in our prayer of thanksgiving and commented that our God was smiling on us. It reminds me of some of those Old Testament stories where God protected His people. This amazingly low level of bond interest rates for our investment grade is not something you can plan or control. It is truly a God thing.

With funding in place, construction plans finalized, and seismic issues dealt with, we will have our official groundbreaking for the new adult and expanded “Groundbreaking”children’s hospital towers on Sunday, May 22, at 2:00 p.m. in front of the current hospital, where preparation for the new facility has already begun.

One and all are warmly invited. This is a once-in-a-lifetime event, so I hope you can join us. If you are not able to be here in person, you can watch the groundbreaking live on the internet. Click here for more details. I just wish John Burden, Ellen White and Percy Magan could be here to celebrate with us!

This will be a $1 billion project, huge by any standards and certainly much bigger than anything we have tackled in the past. There have been many providential steps to get us this far. We don’t start with either pride or overconfidence, but with a humble spirit of commitment to God’s leading. This hospital complex will be transformational for Loma Linda, building on our reputation and extending our influence for decades to come.

Please pray with us, not only for success with the project, but for a renewed commitment to our mission to “continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ”To make man whole.

Cordially yours,

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

Office of the President, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350

Copyright © 2016 by Loma Linda University

llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 05 May 2016 10:07:10 -0700
4264:26261 <![CDATA[Devotional -- combined effort]]> Dilys Brooks Editor’s note: In April, the chaplains invite and encourage the Loma Linda University Health community to pray and fast together each Tuesday, asking for God’s guidance and wisdom as we continue to build and grow.

 

***

“Next to him the men of Jericho built. ... After him Malchijah, one of the goldsmiths, carried out repairs.” Nehemiah 3:2, 31 

One cannot help but stop and marvel at the feats of construction that are occurring on both the southwest and northwest corners of Barton Road and Anderson Street in preparation for the new adult and expanded children’s hospital towers at Loma Linda University Health.

As one continues to travel a little further west, he or she would then observe the parking structure on the corner of Barton Road and Campus Street receiving its finishing touches. Additionally, there is activity on the southwest corner of Prospect Avenue and Anderson Street where trenches are being dug and waterlines improved prior to new landscaping being placed.

The elements indispensable to all these undertakings are the men and women who work “next to” each other and “after” one another to complete the tasks at hand. In Nehemiah Chapter 3, these two phrases, “next to” and “after,” are used repeatedly to describe the way those who responded to the call to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem labored together.

While it is true that, in the diverse areas where we serve within Loma Linda University Health, we may not be observed as easily by bystanders or passersby, it is clear to me that embedded in our ethos is a commitment to work together. This culture is reflected across the enterprise in our hospitals, clinics, classrooms, international and local service experiences, cafeterias, landscaping, security … the list goes on and on. We, side by side, work to fulfill the mission of Loma Linda University Health “To make man whole.” 

It can be challenging to work under public scrutiny where people are always watching over your shoulder. It can be frustrating when there are naysayers, pessimists or the opinionated who seem to always have something to say about what you are doing. There is a challenge when you put forth your best efforts and still find yourself functioning in crisis mode or putting out one fire after another. Yet I would say to you “Be encouraged.” There is someone working next to you and another who will come after to complete the task at hand.

We will only fail to meet our goals if we forget that each of us is not being asked to build a wall alone. Nehemiah and the rebuilders were committed to one goal, reconstructing the wall. They worked under adverse conditions under the scrutiny and discouragement of those who opposed the project. Yet, they kept working next to and after each other. Perhaps they were able to do this because they remembered that it was God who had placed them there and it was God who would cover, protect and give them good success.

Look to the person next to you and think about those who will come after you. We stand on the shoulders of those who have come before us; let’s keep building together.

Dilys Brooks, MDiv
Associate campus chaplain 
Loma Linda University

]]>
Thu, 28 Apr 2016 11:16:46 -0700
4264:26259 <![CDATA[Blessings continue at Loma Linda]]> Richard Hart, MD, DrPH Loma Linda University Health has a long history of miracles, and we have just been blessed with another one.

As you know, we have been preparing for more than five years to build a new hospital. This requires considerable preparation — organizationally, politically, financially, and in design and construction planning. While we are deep in preparation prior to our groundbreaking event May 22, none of this can happen without confirmed financial plans.

Two weeks ago, the day before we had to know, CHFFA (the California Health Facilities Financing Authority) confirmed that our state bond funding of $165 million was available for the Children’s Hospital. That same week, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services agreed that we could maintain separate licensure for Children’s Hospital. Additionally, we signed the construction contract with McCarthy for building the new adult and children’s hospital towers.

Each of these was a critical step absolutely essential before going to the bond market with a credible story.

The final requirement was the bond financing itself for the balance of the funds we needed. Much preparation has gone into this effort over the past several years. Last week Kerry Heinrich, Kevin Lang and Angela Lalas did the “road show,” meeting potential investors in New York, Philadelphia, Boston, Chicago, San Francisco and Los Angeles. These investors needed to have confidence in our future before they would buy our bonds. This is despite our “junk bond” rating — which was recently revised from negative to stable outlook, but still ranked low. By all accounts, the trip went well with good questions and a positive attitude.

But the real test was Wednesday morning, when the actual bond offering was put on the trading table. To our amazement and blessing, over $4.7 billion was put forward in solicitation to purchase our bonds — five times more than we needed. Interest rates in the bond market are also at a 50-year low, something we could not have imagined or planned.

Within two hours, with this level of desire for our bonds, we sold our entire bond offering at an average interest rate of 4.84 percent. This will save us around $135 million in interest alone, as we had originally budgeted the bonds at a 6.5 percent interest rate.

Once again, our God has smiled on His institution. Huge kudos go to Kerry, Kevin, Angela and the many others who played less visible but crucial roles in this process.

Now we move forward with construction. We still need to meet our Vision 2020 philanthropy goal of $360 million (we are more than halfway there) and gain operational efficiencies in our health care enterprises. But this critical financial step is now behind us.

Join us for the groundbreaking at 2 p.m. May 22. And continue to thank God for His guidance and protection in this process.

Dick

“Richard

 

 

 

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

]]>
Thu, 28 Apr 2016 10:36:14 -0700
4264:26238 <![CDATA[Name the Grow Together mascot]]> Darin West The second and final round of the Grow Together mascot naming contest is here. Earlier this month, the mascot — a giant smiling orange — was introduced, and employees submitted over 100 entries in a naming contest.

Below are the top five entries. Cast your vote for your favorite name by sending an email to growtogether@llu.edu.

• Citro
• Clementine
• Ollie
• Sunny
• Julius

Which one do you like best?

Grow Together, the employee giving program led by a passionate group of employee volunteers and philanthropy staff, provides an opportunity for Loma Linda University Health employees to give back and support their passion.

To learn more about Grow Together, visit llugrow.org.

]]>
Thu, 28 Apr 2016 09:18:10 -0700
4264:26242 <![CDATA[Double rainbow after the storm]]> Heather Reifsnyder “This evening, we were lucky enough to see the beautiful double rainbow that God gave us at the end of the day,” said administrative assistant Judy Hamrouni after Monday, April 25’s downpour. “It was amazing.”

Neuroscience research postdoctoral fellow Ningbo Xu, MD, captured the moment from the east entrance of Risley Hall with the above photograph.

Genesis 9:12-13

God said, ‘This is the sign of the covenant that I make between me and you and every living creature that is with you, for all future generations: I have set my bow in the clouds, and it shall be a sign of the covenant between me and the earth.’”

]]>
Thu, 28 Apr 2016 09:27:31 -0700
4264:26234 <![CDATA[National Day of Prayer]]> Courtney Haas Each year on the first Thursday of May, individuals are invited to participate in National Day of Prayer.

This year, it falls on May 5, and Loma Linda University campus ministries, Loma Linda University Church, and Loma Linda University Medical Center chaplains and employee spiritual care departments invite you to join in prayer and worship with a series of events throughout the day. 

Beginning with a prayer walk from 8:00 to 8:30 a.m. at six locations, all are invited to meet to begin the day praying together. 

Locations:

LLU and LLU Medical Center — Good Samaritan sculpture on campus lawn

LLUMC East Campus — outdoor amphitheater

LLU Surgical Hospital — chapel

LLU Behavioral Medicine Center — outdoor gazebo, northwest side of building

LLUMC – Murrieta — Come Unto Me sculpture of Jesus on bench

LLUAHSC 101 Building — employee lounge

Prayer services will then be held from 12:00 to 12:45 p.m. and 5:00 to 5:45 p.m. at the Loma Linda University Church, providing the opportunity to come together with others across campus as we worship and pray for the nation, government and Loma Linda University Health.

Finally, you can participate in a self-guided prayer experience from 8:00 to 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 to 4:30 p.m. in the Loma Linda University Church. This experience is a personal, interactive prayer journey that will focus on various areas of your community and personal life.

To learn more about the day’s events, and to view a prayer list that will help to guide you through the day, please download the document below. 

]]>
Thu, 28 Apr 2016 09:01:00 -0700
4264:26233 <![CDATA[Employee engagement survey deadline extended]]> Courtney Haas and Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Health administration has extended the annual employee engagement survey deadline through Tuesday, May 3.

Employees are encouraged to participate in this less than 10-minute survey and take the opportunity to share feedback about their work environment to help improve Loma Linda University Health.

By now, each employee should have received an invitation and personalized access code for the 2016 survey. Using the code provided, employees can take the survey online or via phone, either from home or work, through May 3. 

Any employee who did not receive an access code should contact his or her direct supervisor or Gallup client support at 800-788-9987 during the hours of 5:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 5:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. on Fridays. 

“You are the heart of this institution,” says President Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, inviting all employees of Loma Linda University Health to participate in the survey. “It is the individuals who make the uniqueness, the specialness, of Loma Linda University Health.” 

Through sharing their ideas and perceptions, employees can play a positive role in improving the services of Loma Linda University Health. 

For more information about the survey, please ask your direct supervisor. 

To view information about the survey on VIP, click here

]]>
Thu, 28 Apr 2016 08:59:47 -0700
4264:26244 <![CDATA[Allied health's 50th anniversary gala is a golden time]]> Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University’s biggest school is celebrating its 50th year of distinguished history in 2016. Since the founding of the School of Allied Health Professions in 1966, it has grown to boast nine departments and more than 50 degrees and programs.

“We challenge our students to become competent and compassionate professionals serving local and global communities,” says Dean Craig Jackson, JD, MSW. “Whatever their specialty, Loma Linda University allied health alumni learn to promote a culture of service through compassion, integrity and excellence.”

On the evening of April 23, the school hosted a golden anniversary gala decorated in pinks, golds and flowing beads, with entertainment by a men’s trio, the Stratton Half Brothers, performing classic songs of yesteryear.

“Fifty years is considered a golden celebration, and this is the golden year for the School of Allied Health Professions,” Jackson says.

Several members of the 50th — and founding — anniversary class of 1966 attended. The alumni pooled together to donate a check to the school of $11,000, promising the amount would grow as more members of the class contribute.

Jackson thanked the class members of 1966 for their generosity and for making the evening historic with their presence.

Alumni of all generations, from near and far, attended the gala. One guest traveled from the Republic of Moldova, a distance of more than 6,200 miles. The most senior alumnus in attendance — or rather, the most distinguished — was 83 years old.

Also in attendance were two of the school’s deans — two, in fact of only three in the school’s history. In addition to Jackson, present as a guest was dean emerita Joyce Hopp, PhD, MPH, whom Jackson specially recognized that night. Hopp was dean from 1986 to 2002. (Founding dean emeritus Ivor Woodward, PhD, passed away in 2008.)

Some alumni in attendance at the gala predate their education to the school’s founding, such as Georgia Hodgkin, EdD, who graduated with her degree in nutrition and dietetics from Loma Linda University in 1963. Today, she is professor and associate chair, department of nutrition and dietetics, School of Allied Health Professions. 

Development officer Natalie Kopp announced at the gala that the school is starting two new scholarship funds, one in honor of Hodgkin and one in honor of another longtime faculty member, John Lewis, PhD.  

A dash for cash during the banquet allowed attendees to donate to one of these two new funds or another fund of their choice, and with sponsorships from Jackson, Hodgkin and Kopp, the dash raised more than $9,000 for the School of Allied Health Professions. 

Additionally, with a silent auction and opportunity drawing, the school raised another $6,000 that night. All told, the evening total was $26,000.

The school gave out a number of awards that evening, including honoring Alumna of the Year Sandy Roberts, DMin, MA, who earned her degree in nutrition and dietetics in 1980 from the School of Allied Health Professions. Today, she is president of the Southeastern California Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

“We are proud of Roberts, who followed her passion into ministry and utilizes her education with us in a unique way,” Dean Jackson says.

Other distinguished alumni honored during the banquet were, by department: 

• Tim Nakamura, department of cardiopulmonary sciences
• Paul Chiou, department of clinical laboratory science
• Abigail Namsang, department of communication sciences and disorders
• Timothy Bristol, department of health informatics and information management
• Karen Pendleton, department of occupational therapy
• David Peterson, department of physical therapy
• Darin Rampton, department of physician assistant sciences, and
• Elizabeth Vrolijk Ordelheilde, department of radiation technology. 

The other recognition the school offers at homecoming is called the Rising Star Award, which is given to current students or alumni who have graduated in the past five years. The awardees were:

• Waleed Almutairi, department of cardiopulmonary sciences
• Nixon Corpuz, department of clinical laboratory science
• Lillian Williams, department of communication sciences and disorders
• Taejoon Lee, department of health informatics and information management
• Michelle Pecheck, department of nutrition and dietetics
• Katherine Puccio, department of occupational therapy
• Trevor Lohman, department of physical therapy
• Capt. Katie Leagh Lam, department of physician assistant sciences, and
• Kenton Fritz, department of radiation technology.

]]>
Thu, 28 Apr 2016 10:28:51 -0700
4264:26153 <![CDATA[LLU employee benefits fair coming soon]]> Heather Reifsnyder Faculty and staff of Loma Linda University are invited to familiarize themselves with “A Colorful Blend of Benefits” during the 2016 employee benefits fair for university employees only.

The fair will take place Monday, May 2 from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the lawn between Prince Hall and Loma Linda University Church.

Featured booths will include the Campus Store/iLLUtech (Apple), CareWorks Absence Management and Drayson Center.

The event boasts a grand prize $500 package for one university employee, refreshments and other giveaways.

This is also the time of year for university employees to review their health and life insurance benefits, as open enrollment for Loma Linda University runs May 1 through May 16.

For more information, please contact Candace Alarid at calarid@llu.edu or ext. 33462.

]]>
Thu, 21 Apr 2016 09:40:22 -0700
4264:26147 <![CDATA[A video journey through 5 years at Loma Linda University Health]]> Advancement films ]]> Leadership from across North America assembled on the Loma Linda University Health campus for the organization’s quinquennial constituency session. The April 14 meeting included a major report by President Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, recounting the organization’s progress and accomplishments over the previous five years. Part of his presentation included this video prepared by the office of advancement films. 

]]>
Thu, 21 Apr 2016 09:27:23 -0700
4264:26149 <![CDATA[Seminar to discuss cardiovascular exercise]]> Caitlin McKee The Living Whole Wellness Program at Loma Linda University Health is hosting a free live-streaming seminar on the basics of cardiovascular exercise.

Everyone knows cardiovascular exercise is important, but what exactly is it? Ronald Rea, DScPT, will talk about why cardiovascular exercise is important and provide practical tips for incorporating it into the daily routines of life.

The webinar will take place Wednesday, April 27, from 5:30 to 6:00 p.m., and online audience members will be able to ask Rea live questions.

Don’t miss it, and share the link below with family and friends.

Watch Rea’s presentation April 27 at myllu.llu.edu/livingWhole/wellnesslive.

]]>
Thu, 21 Apr 2016 09:34:48 -0700
4264:26155 <![CDATA[Devotional -- in the face of opposition]]> Kathy McMillan Editor’s note: In April, the chaplains invite and encourage the Loma Linda University Health community to pray and fast together each Tuesday, asking for God’s guidance and wisdom as we continue to build and grow.

***

After receiving permission from the king to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem, Nehemiah recruited a host of his countrymen and set out to restore their city. Work on the wall was begun, with multiple work crews concentrating on various sections. The work progressed quickly and, soon, half of the wall was completed.

Three of the regional governors, however, were angry with the plan and repeatedly opposed Nehemiah. In their anger, they ridiculed and criticized the Jewish workers, insulting them publicly on numerous occasions and threatening to kill them.

Opposition is terribly deflating! When we create a plan that we believe will make a positive difference, only to have someone work against it, we feel discouraged and often angry. If our motives are pure, it seems unconscionable that someone else would work to destroy what we intend for good.  

Under these circumstances, it’s easy to get defensive and become angry ourselves. We want to justify our plan and let others know that we are being mistreated. We want to highlight our record and convince others to think well of us.

However, that is not the example we have from Nehemiah. He simply kept working. He did not allow criticism to delay the work, but readjusted the plan to allow for men to stand guard and protect the workers. Each person continued with the work he or she was assigned to do.

It isn’t a bad lesson for us, both corporately and individually. When we receive criticism, if we can stand in good conscience before God, believing we are following His plan for our life — and for our institution — we can continue on course. Sometimes the best thing we can do is to keep on doing the job we’ve been given to do.

“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved by Him, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly explaining the word of truth.” 2 Timothy 2:15

Kathy McMillan, MA
Director
Employee spiritual care
Loma Linda University Medical Center

]]>
Thu, 21 Apr 2016 09:45:18 -0700
4264:26158 <![CDATA[President's work bee to search for history]]> Heather Reifsnyder In the olden days of Loma Linda — more than 100 years ago — a grand staircase swept from the train station up the hill to the original Loma Linda Sanitarium, founded in 1905, now known as Loma Linda University Health.  

The staircase traveled between two stately rows of palm trees that still stand today on the north side of the hill, which is now home to Nichol Hall and Lindsay Hall.  

Sunday, May 1, President Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, will lead volunteers from Loma Linda University Health in a half-day work bee to clear this area between the trees and search for remnants of these historical steps. The departments of landscaping and construction will be present providing necessary tools and gear.

The day will begin at 7 a.m. in the hilltop gazebo above Lindsay Hall with a warm pancake breakfast provided by the student residence deans.  

“Join us as we link past and present by coming together to restore a historic area,” says Hart. 

]]>
Thu, 21 Apr 2016 09:58:11 -0700
4264:26151 <![CDATA[Employee discount offered for PossAbilities Triathlon]]> Briana Pastorino The Loma Linda University Health 14th Annual PossAbilities Triathlon is taking to the streets of Loma Linda this Sunday, April 24. All able-bodied and challenged athletes are invited to participate in the race. There will also be a kids triathlon.

Employees of Loma Linda University Health will receive a 25 percent discount when registering online by Friday, April 22, and including their employee ID number and the discount code EMPLOYEE25. Register at http://www.teampossabilities.org/14th-annual-possabilities-triathlon/. Online registration closes Friday.

The adult triathlon starts at 7 a.m. and is composed of three different segments: a 5K (3.1 mile) run/walk/roll; an 11-mile bike ride and a 150-yard swim in the Drayson Center pool.

The kids triathlon starts at 9 a.m. and is composed of a quarter-mile run/walk/roll; a quarter-mile bike ride and a 25-yard swim in the Drayson Center pool.

Finisher medals will be given to all participants. There will be a cash prize purse for the top three finishers in all challenged athlete races.

The triathlon will kick off at 7 a.m. at Loma Linda University Health Drayson Center, 25040 Stewart Street. A hotdog lunch and refreshments will be provided to participants.

Registration for the triathlon is free for all challenged athletes. Otherwise, registration for adults is $75 for the adult tri, $35 for the 5K, and kids ages 14 and under are $20. There will be same-day registration from 5:30 a.m. to 6:30 a.m. for the adult race and at 7:30 a.m. for the kids race.

Early packet pickup will be held on Saturday between 8:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. at the Drayson Center super field in Loma Linda. For more information, or to register, visit the PossAbilities Triathlon webpage.

Loma Linda University Health PossAbilities, powered by Quest Diagnostics, is a free community outreach program. PossAbilities’ goal is to offer disabled individuals who were born with or have permanent physical injury a sense of community, as well as offer activities and practical direction to help them lead an active, fulfilling life.

]]>
Thu, 21 Apr 2016 09:37:11 -0700
4264:26156 <![CDATA[Hospital groundbreaking: May 22]]> Heather Reifsnyder Inland Empire health care will never be the same after the first shovelfuls of dirt move at the May 22 groundbreaking of the new adult and children’s hospital towers at Loma Linda University Health, which will open in the year 2020.

This new facility will usher in a new era of medicine for the region.

The event runs from 2 to 5 p.m., and employees, students and the community are invited. The formal program, which will begin at 2:30 p.m., will include a preview of the new world-class facilities, followed by the ceremonial breaking of ground.

In addition to the ceremony, planners are making this a day of health and wholeness for the entire family. It will feature free activity areas for children, healthy cooking demonstrations, and a chance to win a free family vacation. Food trucks will serve festive eats, and additional activities will include face painting, a petting zoo, and a sneak peak of the new Children’s Hospital tower.

Come, experience the future of health care. For more information, visit groundbreaking.lluh.org. And spread the word with hashtag #‎LLUHGroundbreaking.

What will that future look like? The new medical complex will feature a 16-story adult hospital tower and a 9–story children’s tower. It will be the tallest building in San Bernardino County, but more notably it will offer whole person care with attention to people’s physical, mental, and spiritual needs — the same compassionate care for which Loma Linda University Health is known. All rooms will be private with a healing atmosphere and space for family members.  

Kerry Heinrich, JD, CEO of Loma Linda University Medical Center, notes the monumental nature of this undertaking. 

“There have been years of planning going into where we are,” he says. “We are just about to start moving dirt, and I am so excited about what is coming in the years ahead.

“In the next four years, this will be the largest hospital construction project in the state of California.”

The new hospital will have its footprint in what, up until now, has been the guest and patient parking lot of the Medical Center. The two hospital towers will share a base, on the north end of which will sit the adult tower. South, the Children’s Hospital tower will rise in shades of dichroic glass shimmering in the California sun.

“The children’s tower will have some remarkable features that will make it uniquely appealing to children,” Heinrich notes.

There will be some growing pains in the construction process, but Heinrich says, “We’re trying to minimize that in every way we can for our patients and our employees.”

The chief change seen thus far is that the front driveway to the Medical Center has been changed from Anderson Street to Prospect Avenue, and all patient and guest parking is now free valet service until the new six-story patient parking garage opens behind the Children’s Hospital on Campus Street in June.

Years in the planning, the new medical complex will set the standard in the local region and nation for whole person care. Dirt is about to move, and, as Heinrich says, “Someday is now.”

]]>
Thu, 21 Apr 2016 09:47:11 -0700
4264:26055 <![CDATA[Do you know a wellness role model?]]> Esmerelda Guerrero Loma Linda University Health’s Living Whole Wellness Program would like to acknowledge and highlight employees who demonstrate a commitment to their personal wellness, as well as the wellness of those around them. 

If you know of colleagues or coworkers who are great advocates for wellness on campus or who have made healthy behavior changes in their own lives, remember that they can be nominated for the Living Whole honors.

Selected employees will have their picture posted on the Living Whole website and receive a Living Whole gift.

To nominate a colleague, simply download the form below, complete it and return it via email to livingwhole@llu.edu or via intercampus mail to Department of Risk Management, Attn: Living Whole, 101 E.  Redlands Boulevard, San Bernardino CA 92354.  

The nomination deadline is May 20, 2016. 

]]>
Thu, 14 Apr 2016 10:15:30 -0700
4264:26052 <![CDATA[Remember -- a message from Chaplain Terry Swenson]]> Terry Swenson Editor’s note: Beginning in April, we invite and encourage the Loma Linda University Health community to pray and fast together each Tuesday, asking for God’s guidance and wisdom as we continue to build and grow.

***

“Then as I looked over the situation, I called together the leaders and the people and said to them, ‘Don’t be afraid of the enemy! Remember the Lord, who is great and glorious…’” Nehemiah 4:14 NLT 

You and I live in a world that is overworked and over scheduled, which leaves us feeling OVERWHELMED. We do way too much and take care of ourselves way too little. As the saying goes, “We red line our way through life.”

It comes as no surprise that this state of affairs leaves us with little mental, physical or emotional reserves to rally when we are confronted with the normal challenges in life. The fewer reserves we have on hand, the greater difficulties loom before us. We are anxious. We are afraid. We view our “enemies” from the vista of our capabilities and feel defeated before we begin! 

And therein lies our problem. It is a problem of focus and perspective. Nehemiah already faced a seemingly insurmountable task of rebuilding Jerusalem and its walls. That was enough to make any heart faint! Yet the task was infinitely and exponentially exacerbated by the presence of enemies whose purpose was to prevent Nehemiah’s success by any means possible.

The Israelites were demoralized and afraid. They looked at themselves and their resources, and they only saw imminent defeat and failure. Their current situation blocked from their memory the One who had given them this assignment and who had been leading them thus far.

Nehemiah saw things from a totally different perspective. He looked to God and through God! When he looked to God, he saw that he had all of the resources of the universe at his disposal. When he looked through God’s eyes, he saw that no thing and no one could stand in his way or block his success. It’s a matter of perspective.

Raising vast quantities of money? Building new hospitals and new buildings? From God’s perspective — NO PROBLEM. Integrating Loma Linda University Health and all of its varying entities, programs, hospitals and clinics, classrooms and schools with one vision and mission? From God’s perspective — NO SOONER SAID THAN DONE. We are assured success and victory if we will only do one thing — “Remember the Lord, who is great and glorious.” In the future when you feel overscheduled, overworked or overwhelmed, consider who God has been and can be in your life.

When we look to the Lord for wisdom, guidance and resources…

When we look to each other for prayer, support and encouragement…

We can overcome anything. Nehemiah assures us that it is guaranteed as long as we remember the Lord.

 

Terry Swenson, DMin
Campus chaplain
Loma Linda University

]]>
Thu, 14 Apr 2016 10:05:51 -0700
4264:26050 <![CDATA[PeoplePortal unavailability]]> PeoplePortal, Loma Linda University Health’s portal for accessing and managing items and information such as performance manager, payroll and W-2s, will undergo a system upgrade that will result in unavailability.

Beginning Wednesday, April 13, and extending through Wednesday, April 20, at noon, PeoplePortal will be in “view only” mode. No changes or updates can be made during this time.

From Wednesday, April 20, at noon through Friday, April 22, at noon, PeoplePortal will be completely unavailable.

The upside? At noon on April 22, the new PeoplePortal will be available with an improved user experience for employees and managers.

If you have any questions or need assistance, contact the service/help desk:

  • Loma Linda University Medical Center service desk, ext. 48889
  • Loma Linda University help desk, ext. 48611
]]>
Thu, 14 Apr 2016 10:02:41 -0700
4264:26044 <![CDATA[Zika virus comes to fore of Loma Linda event]]> Courtney Haas According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, while no locally acquired cases of the Zika virus disease have been confirmed in the U.S., there have been 29 travel-associated cases reported in California, two of which were right here in the Inland Empire.

With this topic continuing to spread in the local media, the World Affairs Council of Inland Southern California, in collaboration with Loma Linda University Health, chose to utilize World Health Day, April 7, as an opportunity to bring answers to questions and concerns surrounding both the Zika and Ebola viruses.

The event took place in Randall Visitors Center at Loma Linda University Health with infectious disease specialists Ingrid Blomquist, MD, from Loma Linda University Medical Center, and Michael Ing, MD, from VA Loma Linda Healthcare System presenting. Participating in a Q&A session were Allan Darnell, MD, from the Loma Linda University Center for Health Promotion travel clinic, and Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health.

With nearly 70 individuals in attendance, questions ranged from how to respond to those who fear travel due to these diseases to how to ensure the safety of loved ones living in infected areas for extended periods of time. 

Ing, who presented on Zika, made the comparison to dengue fever, saying that it failed to become a serious problem after breaking out in Florida and Mexico.

“That gives us hope that this will not become a big outbreak in California,” Ing said. “Even if there are selected outbreaks, it’s not going to be here 10 years. It’ll just come, and it’ll move on.”

To learn more about either of these infectious diseases, please visit the links below. 

Zika virus

Ebola virus

To learn more about upcoming World Affairs Council events, please visit www.wacinlandsocal.org

]]>
Thu, 14 Apr 2016 10:01:04 -0700
4264:26042 <![CDATA[Launching soon: new automated travel and expense report system]]> As a part of an enterprise strategy to increase efficiency and contain costs better, Loma Linda University Health is deploying a new software platform, Concur, that will debut in the summer of 2016.

It features web and mobile solutions for travel and expense management, including travel booking, expense report automation, reimbursement, audit, business intelligence, duty of care and many more.

“This is an exciting opportunity for Loma Linda University Health to transform and standardize a process that today is largely paper based, labor intensive and lacking in internal visibility,” says Jeremy Hubbard, director of Loma Linda University Shared Services and leader on the Concur implementation. 

Concur could also provide Loma Linda University Health with the information required to negotiate future discounts on airfare and hotels, among other benefits.

To better understand Concur and how it will impact the organization, News of the Week (NOW) conducted a brief interview with Hubbard.

 

NOW: Tell us a little bit about Concur and how it will optimize travel and expense management at Loma Linda.

Hubbard: Concur is a travel and expense tool. Concur’s cloud-based services integrate with each other and connect to costs wherever they happen to give organizations total visibility into their spending. Concur will give us the means to better manage spending and make it simple for our employees to book travel and do expense reports faster, accurately and in line with company policy.

NOW: Why Concur?

Hubbard: Concur is the industry leader in travel and expense automation for companies of all sizes, including academic health systems. Beyond industry expertise, we were attracted to Concur’s open platform, which will help connect the entire travel and expense ecosystem. Concur technologies adapt to individual employee preferences and scale to meet our complex organizational needs.

NOW: In today’s growing digital economy, how does Loma Linda manage company spending?

Hubbard: That’s an area we anticipate Concur having an immediate impact. As an organization we are always looking to better control costs and drive up efficiency. By automating current processes, the company will have greater visibility over travel expenses and our vendor-spending for negotiating with suppliers. Employees will also enjoy faster reimbursement on business-related expenses.

NOW: How will the institution benefit from Concur?

Hubbard: We believe enhanced visibility will lead to better control of our financial resources and encourage compliance to policy. Streamlining and simplifying the approval and back office processes will improve productivity for staff, and simplify the experience for everyone, regardless of their Loma Linda entity. Concur will also help improve our duty of care efforts by keeping our travelers safe and informed when they travel for business.

NOW: How will the employee/traveler benefit from Concur?

Hubbard: I believe employees are the ones who will benefit the most. I’ve often thought to myself, “What if expense reports could write themselves?” With Concur that idea will become a near reality — from booking a trip, to automatically uploading electronic receipts, to simply snapping a photo of a paper receipt with the Concur mobile app, employees will save time submitting expense reports. Concur will also give supervisors the ability to approve expense reports anytime, anywhere. Users will receive email notifications regarding the status of expense reports and payments, and reimbursement can happen as a direct deposit straight to your bank account. For those traveling for business, Concur creates one itinerary that is accessible via mobile apps with built-in travel alerts, and it builds an expense report as the trip happens.

NOW: What else do Loma Linda University Health employees need to know to be ready for Concur? 

Hubbard: Stay tuned for more information on the upcoming Concur deployment and training. We are very excited about the benefits that this project will bring and ask each of you to support this initiative and use Concur!

Editor’s note:  If you have any questions about Concur or how it will impact your department, please feel free to contact Jeremy Hubbard directly at jehubbard@llu.edu or ext. 48172.

]]>
Thu, 14 Apr 2016 10:00:18 -0700
4264:26040 <![CDATA[Tour the new Medical Center entrance (for patients and guests only)]]> Advancement films ]]> View in time lapse as the old Medical Center driveway is closed and ride through the new one in this video. Remember: the new driveway and free valet service are for patients and guests only. 

]]>
Thu, 14 Apr 2016 09:58:02 -0700
4264:25925 <![CDATA[New Medical Center front drop-off zone for patients and guests ONLY]]> Heather Reifsnyder The front entrance to Loma Linda University Medical Center will be accessible from Prospect Avenue via new driveways opening Tuesday, April 12 — for patients and visitors, that is. Their cars will then be valet-parked for them, free of charge.

Employees are excluded, however, from using the new driveways and valet service. There will be zero tolerance for infractions of this policy. Failure to comply will result in $100-citations, towing and/or further disciplinary action.

Hospital employees being dropped off or picked up must use Campus Street. Employees who self-park will find adequate room in the employee parking structures on Campus Street.

“We thank you in advance for your patience, understanding and assistance in mitigating the impacts of the construction to our patients and guests,” says Kerry Heinrich, JD, CEO of Loma Linda University Medical Center.

Why these changes? To make way for construction of the new hospital complex, which will sit in the former front parking lot.  It will open in 2020 with nine floors for the children’s tower and 16 for the adult tower.

“We are making major progress in preparing the way for the May 22 groundbreaking, including the utility infrastructure,” says Eric Schilt, assistant vice president for construction, Loma Linda University Medical Center. 

The valet service for patients and guests will continue until the new patient parking structure on Campus Street opens; the elevators still need to be completed. The structure is expected to be ready for public use in June.

For questions, contact Schilt at eschilt@llu.edu or ext. 55692.

]]>
Thu, 07 Apr 2016 09:36:05 -0700
4264:25930 <![CDATA[Notes from the President -- Strength in Diversity]]> Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   April 2016
Finding Strength in Our Diversity

Diversity has come to mean many things in today’s slogan-laden world.

For some it is a code word for racial and ethnic inclusiveness. Others consider diversity to be accommodation for physical or mental differences. Perhaps the biggest discussion “Richard today regarding diversity is about sexual identity and the resulting strong feelings on all sides of that issue. In all cases, our backgrounds and resultant attitudes greatly influence how we view differences among us and our often-subtle behavior toward different groups. Even something as small as a person’s accent may trigger certain viewpoints, positive or negative. How one dresses, or speaks, or behaves can automatically cause others to classify him or her to a certain group to be either lauded or rejected. These beliefs influence all interactions with others, including the student-teacher relationship and patient care. When a patient comes into the emergency department drunk or under the influence of drugs, for example, the decision must be made to exhibit the same caring attitude as a mother caring for her sick child.

For those of you not on our campus, we talk about such things here. We recognize that many of these issues are generational — young people view them differently than older individuals. It is important to reach a consensus as, across this country, such issues boil over routinely, on college campuses, in inner city areas or most anywhere that our differences seem to get accentuated and become flash points.

Loma Linda University Health has a long-established commitment to accepting all people as children of God. We have defined inclusiveness to cover the many variations of the human experience, whether “Blackethnic, cultural, physical, faith-based or others. Our challenge has always been to maintain our uniqueness as a Christian community, with certain moral, social and ethical commitments, while also understanding the differences that our students, faculty, staff and patients represent.

I am acutely aware that we do not always demonstrate this inclusiveness as well as we would wish. Over the years, we have tried various organizational and educational strategies at Loma Linda University Health to promote and encourage acceptance and inclusion on our campus. Most have been helpful, though it seems tough to penetrate all components of this campus with a single message of inclusion.

In consultation with various leadership groups on campus over the last few months, we are launching a new approach to this challenge. I have invited a broad group of representatives from across campus to be part of a Diversity Council with the mandate to listen, understand, accept and educate our campus family on diversity issues.

Our goal is to understand our differences as best we can, encourage an honest dialogue about those differences, respect each other in all circumstances, and build on the strengthname of picture that comes from our diversity. This will be a campus-wide effort, spanning our health care enterprise, including our faculty, staff and students. It will instruct and learn from our many service-learning opportunities, both in this community and internationally.

This is not lip service. It is also not a popularity contest. My personal intent is to be persistent and proactive as we try to grow our culture into one of acceptance and inclusion. Each member of the Diversity Council will be tasked to serve as eyes and ears across campus to listen carefully and encourage this understanding. Students, faculty, employees, alumni and community members are urged to share their concerns with any councilmember so she or he can bring them to the attention of the entire council as we seek consensus and strategy. Please click here to see the initial membership of the Diversity Council.

Thank you for joining with us in this critical journey in our world of today. This country, this world, needs our brand of acceptance for all, and I trust this campus can truly become a haven for those who may feel marginalized, or even wounded, in this place dedicated to healing. This will be the journey of a lifetime for some of us, stretching our biases and attitudes farther than feels comfortable at times. And often there is no final answer. To reach the right balance, we need everyone’s input. Please join us in this journey.

Cordially yours,

“Richard

 

 

 

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health 

 

PS: Experience the future of health care by joining us in celebrating the groundbreaking of our new adult and children’s hospital towers Sunday, May 22, from 2 to 5 p.m. This will be a free event for the entire family, complete with food trucks, kids activity zone and giveaways. For more details, visit groundbreaking.lluh.org. You will not want to miss this event that launches the transformation of health care in this region.

 

Vision 2020: The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow

Office of the President, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350

Copyright © 2016 by Loma Linda University

llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 07 Apr 2016 10:45:25 -0700
4264:25914 <![CDATA[Your engagement matters -- we're listening]]> Share your thoughts; make a difference.

Over the next three weeks, employees have an opportunity to share feedback about their work environment and help improve Loma Linda University Health. Now through April 26 is the time for the annual employee engagement survey. It will take less than 10 minutes to help move the institution forward.

By now, each employee should have received an invitation and personalized access code for the 2016 survey. Using the code provided, employees can take the survey online or via phone, either from home or work, through April 26.

Any employee who did not receive an access code should contact his or her direct supervisor or Gallup client support at 800-788-9987 during the hours of 5:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 5:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. on Fridays.

“You are the heart of this institution,” says President Richard Hart, MD, DrPH. He invites all employees of Loma Linda University Health to participate in the survey in this video. “It is the individuals who make the uniqueness, the specialness, of Loma Linda University Health.”

Through sharing their ideas and perceptions, employees can play a positive role in improving the services of Loma Linda University Health.

For more information about the survey, please ask your direct supervisor.

To view information about the survey on VIP, click here

]]>
Wed, 06 Apr 2016 16:52:19 -0700
4264:25928 <![CDATA[PeopleSoft unavailable part of next week ]]> The PeopleSoft system at Loma Linda University Health is being upgraded in April. 

This will require system unavailability beginning Wednesday, April 13, through Friday, April 15. 

The payroll department will be unable to process off-cycle checks (i.e., cash advances, corrections, reversals) on the following business days: 

• Tuesday, April 12
• Wednesday, April 13
• Thursday, April 14
• Friday, April 15

The April 15 pay date will remain the same for employees of the Medical Center, Children's Hospital, Behavioral Medicine Center, Shared Services and LLIECHE.

For payroll-related questions, contact the payroll department 909-651-4004, or ext. 14004, or Payroll@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 07 Apr 2016 10:37:46 -0700
4264:25920 <![CDATA[Changes made to compliance training]]> The 2016 compliance training cycle for employees of Loma Linda University Health began April 1. It contains two important changes. 

First, to meet Medicare requirements, a new training has been added that was developed by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid services. It will take an estimated additional 10 to 15 minutes of total training time.

Second, the organization’s corporate compliance plan has been revised to include an updated code of conduct and to add a new section called standards and expectations. Staff will be asked to attest to receipt of the plan, acknowledge understanding that they are required read it in its entirety, and adhere to its contents.

For instructions to access the training courses and related reports, visit this link on VIP

Questions?

For a password reset, please contact the help desk.
     • Medical Center employees: 909-558-4000 ext. 48889 or 951-890-4357
     • University employees: 909-558-4000 ext. 48611

For help resolving issues with the OWL/Moodle portals, contact staff development at 909-558-4000 ext. 33500.

For questions about training course content, contact the compliance department at 909-558-6458.

]]>
Wed, 06 Apr 2016 17:25:08 -0700
4264:25910 <![CDATA[Sea turtle app developed by student creates citizen-researchers]]> Susan Onuma Researchers at Loma Linda University have released the first interactive global sea turtle sightings smartphone app ever developed.

Dustin Baumbach, a PhD student, and his advisor, Stephen G. Dunbar, PhD, developed the app. They are both sea turtle researchers in the department of earth and biological sciences at Loma Linda University School of Medicine and study sea turtles through the Protective Turtle Ecology Center for Training, Outreach, and Research Inc. (ProTECTOR Inc.) in the country of Honduras.

“We saw the need for people to be a part of the scientific process — to link up with us as researchers and become citizen-scientists,” Dunbar says.

Dunbar has been studying sea turtles in the country of Honduras for the past nine years and has spent much of that time working around the Islands of Roatán and Utila. While researching sea turtles in Roatán in 2014, he and Baumbach developed a mapping system that allows scuba divers and snorkelers to upload photographs and information about turtles they’ve just seen. 

“We discussed the idea and thought, ‘Wouldn’t it be cool if we could develop a smartphone app that people around the world could use to upload photos and information about turtles that could actually help sea turtle conservation researchers?’ So I set out to develop the app myself,” says the 26-year old Baumbach.

The app, named TURT (Turtles Uniting Researchers and Tourists), is the first and only smartphone app available that can map sightings and photographs of sea turtles anywhere in the world. The app launched on April 4 and is available for free at app stores for iPhones and Androids.

The app can be found at Google Play; it will be available within a week from the iPhone app store.

]]>
Wed, 06 Apr 2016 16:13:22 -0700
4264:25918 <![CDATA[Let's do this together]]> Dilys Brooks Editor’s note: Beginning in April, we invite and encourage our one Loma Linda University Health community to pray and fast together each Tuesday, asking for God’s guidance and wisdom as we continue to build and grow.  Below this devotional, find attached a guide to what it means to fast.

***

Then I said to them, “You see the bad situation we are in, that Jerusalem is desolate and its gates burned by fire. Come, let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem so that we will no longer be a reproach.” Nehemiah 2:17

It was approximately 630 days ago that we announced to the Loma Linda University Health family that we were about to embark upon a monumental and historic event.  I took that invitation very personally and found myself on the lawn by the University Church and Good Samaritan statue amongst a sea of employees, community members, dignitaries, children and the curious who witnessed the launch of Vision 2020. It is indeed an immensely significant undertaking, which will affect our locale, region, nation and the world.

This undertaking is similar to Nehemiah’s, who, upon arrival to Jerusalem, surveyed the desolation and damage caused by the fires of its conquerors. It looked bleak and foreboding. To exacerbate the challenges, there were individuals who were displeased with Nehemiah’s mission and orders. Soon after he settled in, the cupbearer-turned-leader under the cover of night, assessed the extent of the rebuilding project. The vision of a reconstructed wall surrounding the city that Nehemiah shared with the inhabitants was daunting and colossal.

Over 40, 401 days ago Loma Linda Sanitarium was incorporated in response to the visionary leadership of another ordinary person, Ellen G. White. The acquisition of the property required faith, tenacity and prayer. We will continue to fast and pray as a community each week for God’s presence, wisdom and power to equip each of us as we participate in the continuation of the fulfillment of this vision. This may seem impossible and untenable based our limited knowledge of how or why decisions have been made in your department, school, program or office.

As we move forward as a one Loma Linda University Health family, we are invited to accept the invitation to build and rebuild. Yes, we are watching new construction all around our various campuses, but that is not what I am referring to. We need to build or repair our faith and rebuild broken relationships. When we do this together through prayer, forgiveness and consistent dialogue, God will be glorified. We have been placed on the hill to bless our community, county, nation and the world. In the words of Nehemiah, “Come, let us do this together.”

Dilys Brooks, MDiv
Associate campus chaplain
Loma Linda University

]]>
Wed, 06 Apr 2016 16:59:08 -0700
4264:25906 <![CDATA[Stress causing sleeping problems?]]> Too stressed to sleep? Stress is our natural response to daily life and everyone experiences it at different levels. It affects us emotionally, physically and behaviorally. The right amount of stress can be a positive force that helps us to do our best and to keep alert and energetic.

But too much stress can make us tense and anxious, often causing problems sleeping.   

The Living Whole Wellness Program at Loma Linda University Health is excited to provide you and your family with a series of learning modules. Click here for a module on sleep and learn more about stress management and some important techniques for getting the sleep you need.    

]]>
Wed, 06 Apr 2016 15:50:04 -0700
4264:25916 <![CDATA[Opening today: Interstate 10 westbound loop on-ramp ]]> San Bernardino Associated Governments The westbound Interstate 10 loop on-ramp at Anderson/Tippecanoe is scheduled to open Thursday, April 7. 

This will allow northbound motorists to turn right and loop around to get on westbound 1-10, eliminating the left-turn traffic under the bridge. 

Result: reduced congestion. 

This new ramp is a key feature of the two-phase interchange project that was initiated to improve access to key destinations including Loma Linda University Medical Center, San Bernardino retail centers, and local residents and businesses.

Phase one enhanced the eastbound off ramp from I-10 and improved the drainage systems that run parallel to the freeway.

Phase two is making new westbound on and off ramp improvements, as well as making Anderson/Tippecanoe wider between Redlands Boulevard and Harriman Place. Motorists will also experience better operation near Redlands Boulevard and Anderson Street in the form of dedicated turn lanes, improved signage and better drainage. 

Phase two is anticipated to be complete by summer 2016.

Drivers are reminded to use caution when traveling through the area as motorists adjust to the new configuration and while construction is ongoing.

Follow the project at www.sanbag.ca.gov/projects.

]]>
Wed, 06 Apr 2016 16:56:27 -0700
4264:25868 <![CDATA[Nearly $6.3 million NIH grant awarded to Center for Perinatal Biology]]> Briana Pastorino and advancement films Researchers from the Center for Perinatal Biology at Loma Linda University School of Medicine have announced that their 417-page application for a program project grant (PPG) from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has been funded for a total of $6.29 million over the next five years.

The researchers reveal the story in this two-minute video, and read on below for more information.

Grant funding begins April 1 with the first installment. The funds specifically come from the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.

The news is very encouraging to Lubo Zhang, PhD, center director and principal investigator on the grant, because it assures the continuity of the center, which was established in 1972 by the late research legend Lawrence Longo, MD, who passed away in January.

“Gestational Hypoxia and Developmental Plasticity,” the title for the PPG, refers to how oxygen deprivation during gestation alters a developing fetus' ability to adapt to challenges imposed during processes involved in development and growth.

The grant will fund four separate but related projects under the watchful attention of principal investigators Lubo Zhang, PhD; Charles Ducsay, PhD; William Pearce, PhD; and Ravi Goyal, MD, PhD. Goyal, an assistant professor of pharmacology who collaborated with Longo on a variety of research projects, will assume leadership of Longo’s project.

The goal of the four studies is to collectively explore the physiological, biochemical, cellular and molecular mechanisms that mediate the effects of long-term, high-altitude hypoxia on maternal health and fetal development. The results could ultimately translate into the importance of improving perinatal care and decreasing chronic disease later in life.

Roger Hadley, MD, School of Medicine dean, welcomed news of the grant that earned the perfect score.

“I’m very pleased to share this exciting news,” Hadley says. “It’s external validation of the quality of our researchers and their work, placing us among the elite research institutions around the world.”

According to Representative Pete Aguilar of California’s 31st congressional district, the grant is good news, not only for the university but also for Southern California.

“Loma Linda University Health’s role as both a medical services provider and a leader in research and discovery puts our region at the forefront of the health care industry and the 21st century economy,” says Aguilar. “I commend Dr. Zhang, his staff and the entire Loma Linda University Health team on this important accomplishment.”

The Center for Perinatal Biology has been continuously funded for the past 20 years through five-year renewals of the original PPG. Officials applied for the five-year renewal in May 2015, and six months later, they were informed that their application had received a score of 10 with a percentile ranking of one —a perfect score.

Longo learned of the perfect score just two months before his death. It was a fitting culmination to his legendary and remarkable career.

 

]]>
Thu, 31 Mar 2016 09:59:41 -0700
4264:25859 <![CDATA[World Health Day event brings awareness to Zika virus and Ebola]]> Courtney Haas As the world becomes more interconnected and interdependent, everything moves faster, including disease. How does this impact the lives of people around the world as they travel for business and pleasure, trade and transport goods, and engage with others on all levels?

April 7 has been designated World Health Day by the United Nations and provides an opportunity to explore the causes and global impact of new, fast-spreading pandemics such as the Zika virus and Ebola.

World Affairs Council of Inland Southern California and Loma Linda University Health are bringing you an event focused on these two infections. With both Zika and Ebola hitting close to home to many of Loma Linda University Health’s international travel sites, like Liberia and Brazil, these topics are of great concern to the local community.

The presenters for the evening, Ingrid Blomquist, MD, and Michael Ing, MD, both specialize in infectious disease and will share how these emerging infections are impacting our world. 

Following the presentations, attendees will be given the opportunity to ask further questions with both Blomquist and Ing as well as Allan Darnell, MD, and Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health.

The event begins with a reception and light refreshments at 5:30 p.m. in the Loma Linda University Randall Visitors Center with the main event beginning at 6 p.m.

While the event is free, registration is required. Click here to register. 

For additional information please contact Margaret Hill, World Affairs Council program chair, at worldaffairsCSUSB@gmail.com or 909-537-5648.

  

]]>
Thu, 31 Mar 2016 09:48:16 -0700
4264:25853 <![CDATA[Alumna serving as Florida surgeon general]]> Heather Reifsnyder Florida Governor Rick Scott has appointed Loma Linda University alumna Celeste Philip, MD, MPH, to the position of interim surgeon general for this state of 20 million residents.

Philip graduated from Loma Linda University in 2001 with her master of public health degree in maternal and child health, and again in 2003 with her MD degree. She received her bachelor’s degree from Howard University. She holds certifications from the American Board of Preventive Medicine and the American Board of Family Medicine.

Philip has held positions at the Florida Department of Health including deputy secretary for health and deputy state health officer for Children’s Medical Services.

She previously worked for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Loma Linda University congratulates Philip on her fine achievements.  

]]>
Thu, 31 Mar 2016 09:42:11 -0700
4264:25864 <![CDATA[Oasis brings renewal]]> Heather Reifsnyder Wednesday, June 8, will be a day for employees to be encouraged, motivated and inspired. It is Oasis — the annual day of renewal for all employees.

Oasis provides a refreshing escape from the dry desert of stress and busy-ness. The theme for Oasis 2016 is “Finding Fresh Perspective.”

“How do we find meaning in the midst of this fast-paced and worry-filled existence?” asks Kathy McMillan, MA, director of employee spiritual care, Loma Linda University Medical Center.

This day of renewal will help answer that question. “We will discover what it means to set our hearts on God and to find strength and relief from the storms of life,” McMillan says. 

Presenting meaningful thoughts as the day’s keynote speakers will be Barbara Hernandez, PhD, director of physician vitality, Loma Linda University; Jenny Tillay, MDiv, adjunct instructor in the School of Religion; and Michael Rhynus, MDiv, chaplain, LLU Medical Center.

The day will open with a morning devotional given by Lyndon Edwards, MBA, MHS, senior vice president for Loma Linda University Medical Center adult hospital services, as well as Behavioral Medicine Center and Highland Springs Medical Plaza.  

Oasis will take place at The Castaway in the rolling hills of San Bernardino, nestled above the valley, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 

For more information, contact employeespiritualcare@llu.edu or extension 87261.

Please register at the OWL portal at myllu.llu.edu/owl for the cost of $25. Light breakfast and lunch will be provided, as well as two continuing education hours.

]]>
Thu, 31 Mar 2016 09:52:16 -0700
4264:25860 <![CDATA[Today's 'Live It' episode: the <bold>lifelong</bold> importance of nutrition during pregnancy]]> Advancement films ]]> This episode features the late Lawrence Longo, MD.

Plus, don’t miss any episodes of “Live It,” Loma Linda University Health’s online health show. Visit liveitlomalinda.org for more.

]]>
Thu, 31 Mar 2016 09:49:00 -0700
4264:25857 <![CDATA[Grow Together introduces newest team member - a giant orange]]> Darin West Meet the Grow Together team’s newest member. This bundle of joy was born at 10 a.m. on March 28, but something is missing. This mascot still needs a name and that is where you, the wonderful employees of Loma Linda University Health, come in. 

Now the Growth Together team is holding a contest that gives employees a chance to name the orange representative. Submit your names to growtogether@llu.edu between March 30 and April 8 and see if your choice is the winner. Puns and alliteration are encouraged! 

Grow Together, the employee giving program that is led by a passionate group of employee volunteers and philanthropy staff, provides an opportunity for Loma Linda University Health employees to give back and support their passion.

To learn more about Grow Together, visit llugrow.org

]]>
Thu, 31 Mar 2016 09:46:20 -0700
4264:25855 <![CDATA[Asking for what we need]]> Kathy McMillan Some days feel heavy. Just to get through them feels like shoveling wet snow in a blizzard; as a little snow is cleared, more is dumped in its place. Troubles pile on more quickly than they can be processed. Relationships crumble, the to-do list lengthens, health fails, and stresses accumulate, making it difficult to find happiness.

This kind of heaviness was unfamiliar to Nehemiah. He had served the king as his cup-bearer long enough for the king to know that Nehemiah was generally a contented man. But this particular day, he was sad. He had received word that Jerusalem lay in ruins, destroyed by fire — and he was heartsick.

King Artaxerxes noticed the change of demeanor and questioned him: “Why are you so sad? You aren’t sick, so this is obviously sadness of the heart.” The king went on to ask Nehemiah what he needed. 

Nehemiah was surprised by the king’s observations, and he was frightened. He wondered how he could possibly respond to the king who was likely responsible for ransacking his home city. Scripture tells us that Nehemiah was afraid … so he prayed.

Right there in the middle of the conversation with the king, he breathed a prayer to the God who was his constant companion. There wasn’t a moment to waste and Nehemiah knew where to turn in his time of distress. 

As Nehemiah tells the story, “I prayed to the God of heaven, and I answered the king.” It wasn’t a long conversation; it took only a moment to present his request to God. “Help me know how to respond.” And then Nehemiah spoke. He asked Artaxerxes for time to go rebuild the walls of his city. The king responded generously, not only providing time off, but sending him with letters of safe conduct and permission to use royal timber for the building project.

It was a remarkable cure for the blues. A felt need … a simple prayer … a statement of need. Nehemiah’s day — and life — was turned around.

April 5 begins our campus-wide journey of prayer. We encourage you to find some colleagues to pray with during your usual lunch time each Tuesday. A prayer service will be held in the Loma Linda University Medical Center chapel at noon each week.  Let’s commit ourselves to prayer as we ask God to lead Loma Linda University Health.                        

Now, my God, may your eyes be open and your ears attentive to the prayers offered in this place.  2 Chronicles 6:40

Kathy McMillan, MA
Director
Employee spiritual care
Loma Linda University Medical Center

]]>
Thu, 31 Mar 2016 09:45:51 -0700
4264:25866 <![CDATA[PossAbilities will host U.S. Paralympic cycling series with athletes from around the world]]> Briana Pastorino The PossAbilities Para-cycle Race Series in conjunction with the 32nd annual Redlands Bicycle Classic is happening April 7 through April 10.

Loma Linda University Health PossAbilities, powered by Quest Diagnostics, was recently chosen to receive a grant by the United States Olympic Committee for clearly demonstrating the vision of the Craig H. Neilsen Foundation by providing opportunities and improving the lives of individuals with spinal cord injuries.

The grant will help offset expenses for the Redlands Bicycle Classic PossAbilities Para-cycling Race Series, with PossAbilities serving as the designated host for the 2016 United States Paralympic Cycling Series event.

“We are very thankful to have been chosen for this grant,” says Pedro Payne, PhD, director of PossAbilities. “The additional funding will allow us to lend financial support to many challenged athletes who would otherwise not be able to participate in this event.”

Payne continued, “We invite our entire community to come out and support these cyclists because they are an inspiration to us all. They really show us that physical limitations are no match for an athlete’s desire to excel!”

The event this year involves four stages of racing to include a road race in Yucaipa on Thursday, April 7; a time trial in Highland on Friday, April 8; and two criteriums in downtown Redlands on Saturday and Sunday, April 9 and 10, respectively.

A “Learn to Ride Clinic” for all ages and open to the public will be held in the parking structure located across the street from 107 E. Citrus on Sunday, April 10th from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Race schedule:

Thursday, April 7 – Stage 1, PossAbilities Para-cycle Circuit Road Race (all classes)

Start at Sunnyside Drive north of Oak Glen Road, Yucaipa.

Distance: 1.7-mile loop for 12 laps (20.4 mile max)

Start time: 9:00 a.m.

Friday, April 8 – Stage 2 , PossAbilities Para-cycle Time Trial (all classes)

Start at Greenspot Road at Santa Paula Street, Highland.

Distance: 5.3 miles

Start time: 10:30 a.m. 

Saturday, April 9 – Stage 3, PossAbilities Para-cycle Criterium (class H & recumbent only)

Start at Citrus Avenue in downtown Redlands

Distance: 1.0 mile circuit for 30 minutes

Start time: 1:30 p.m. 

Sunday, April 10 – Stage 4, PossAbilities Para-cycle Criterium (class H & recumbent only)

Start at Citrus Avenue in downtown Redlands

Distance: 0.65 mile circuit for 30 minutes

Start time: 3:05 p.m. 

For more information on PossAbilities, visit teampossabilities.org.

]]>
Thu, 31 Mar 2016 09:55:51 -0700
4264:25786 <![CDATA[Code yellow: practice for the real thing]]> Briana Pastorino There is no doubt that we will ever forget the events of December 2. And let us not forget that an emergent situation, such as the bomb threats that occurred on that same day and again on December 8, were all very real scenarios that luckily did not amount to anything life threatening…at least not then.

On the morning of Wednesday, March 30, Loma Linda University Health will be conducting its quarterly campus wide drill. This is our way of allowing you – our staff and students – to practice so you will be prepared for an emergent situation. The scenario for next week’s drill will be a code yellow, which is labeled as a bomb threat, and in this case will also involve suspicious packages found on campus.

The two main focuses of the code yellow drill on Wednesday will be utilizing the bomb threat caller form and emergency notifications.

What to do if you receive a potential bomb threat

In the event you get a call from an individual claiming to have left a bomb on campus, it is imperative that you attempt to get as much information as possible, including location of the bomb, when it will go off, what will cause it to go off and what the bomb looks like. It is also important to make note of the characteristics of the caller, such as sex, voice traits, detectable accent, background noises and general attitude.

After your encounter with the caller ends, you must call security control by dialing 9-1-1. For a full rundown of what to do, see the attached document below.

Emergency notifications

Loma Linda University Health utilizes a tool called Send Word Now to send messaging to all students and staff – over 13,000 people – during drills and emergencies. Messaging is sent through LLU and personal email, cell phone text, 2-way pagers and voice phone calls. How you receive messaging is how you elect to do so in MyLLU.

Full instructions on how to update your information are available here.

The most reliable source of communication during drills and emergencies is through your cell phone. However, you will not receive cell phone notification unless you have provided that information in MyLLU.

For additional information on what to do in emergency situations, visit these links:

-       Emergency support and protocol resources

-       Find out the latest status on a current incident

If you have questions about the drill, you may contact environmental health & safety at 909-651-4018 or ext. 14018.

 

 

 

 

]]>
Thu, 24 Mar 2016 11:16:42 -0700
4264:25777 <![CDATA[Spring is a good time to embrace grace]]> Heather Reifsnyder Spring brings part three of “The Scandal of Grace,” the theme being brought to life during this school year’s chapel series at Loma Linda University. The spring quarter schedule, now released, outlines the programming for each Wednesday session, held weekly from 11 to 11:50 a.m. at Loma Linda University Church.

The series will be kicked off March 30 in musical style, with a concert presented by the California Baptist University New Song Choir.

The following week, chapel will convene each day, as April 4 through 8 is Week of Renewal for Loma Linda University, with the daily presentations focusing on “This Relentless Grace.”

The following six Wednesdays will feature:

April 13: Terry Swenson, DMin, campus chaplain

April 20: Dilys Brooks, MDiv, associate campus chaplain

April 27: Our Voices

May 4: Carl Wilkens, MBA, author of “I’m Not Leaving,” a book about his experience during the Rwandan genocide of 1994.

May 11: Individual school awards chapels

May 18: Celebration chapel

]]>
Thu, 24 Mar 2016 09:30:57 -0700
4264:25779 <![CDATA[We all rejoice]]> Heather Reifsnyder Easter is a source of light just as the sun rises in the east. Celebrated this Sunday, March 27, 2016, Easter celebrates the resurrected King, the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was brought back to life after his crucifixion. “I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life,” Jesus said in John 8:12.

Many people cannot help but follow that Light, even the Roman soldier who narrates the story attached below.

Read this account of Jesus’ death and resurrection as imagined through the eyes of this solider. The story is written by Kathy McMillan, MA, director, employee spiritual care, Loma Linda University Medical Center.

As the solider says in this story, “The King has risen; Jesus is alive.” 

]]>
Thu, 24 Mar 2016 09:32:28 -0700
4264:25781 <![CDATA[Spring clean your work breaks ]]> Esmerelda Guerrero With the change in season comes the opportunity to change the way we think about getting and staying active. 

Try taking a walking break. The Living Whole Wellness Program developed walking maps for different areas of campus. These walking maps have been designed to give you short- to medium- distance routes; these maps will also provide you with approximate walk times, step counts, calories burned and distance. Scroll down; each are two pages.

The maps are also downloadable. 

Challenge yourself to go for a walk at least once a day for the next week.

Visit the Living Whole website for the walking maps: http://myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole/walking/

]]>
Shown here is a description of the trails mapped for employees of Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center. ]]> Thu, 24 Mar 2016 09:37:31 -0700
4264:25783 <![CDATA[Your 'LIVE IT' tip for the day: eat more beans! ]]> Advancement films ]]> Want to decrease the risk of having a hip fracture? Eating legumes is a cost-effective and simple way to reduce the risk for hip fractures now and in the future.

]]>
Thu, 24 Mar 2016 09:45:02 -0700
4264:25695 <![CDATA[LLUH rideshare department holds first vanpool formation meetings]]> Contributed report February was an exciting month for the Loma Linda University Health rideshare department, as they, in collaboration with their co-partners, Enterprise Rideshare, held their first vanpool formation meetings.

Designed to educate and inform employees about the benefits of vanpooling, the meetings were attended by Loma Linda University Health employees from Victorville, Apple Valley, Hesperia and surrounding cities. 

There are currently four vanpools that originate in the high desert and one that leaves from Beaumont. Due to the positive response, the department is now working on plans to form a sixth vanpool for employees who live in the high desert.

Rideshare is attempting to make vanpooling more accessible to employees throughout the surrounding communities. If you are interested in joining an existing vanpool, please click here and watch for upcoming invitations to attend an informational vanpool meeting for the area you reside in.

For more information, please contact the Loma Linda University Health rideshare department at (909) 651-3033 (ext. 53033) or email rideshare@llu.edu

]]>
Wed, 16 Mar 2016 09:52:22 -0700
4264:25693 <![CDATA[Family Fitness Fun 5k and Expo is just around the corner]]> James Ponder The Big Hearts for Little Hearts Loma Linda Guild is inviting you to attend the 2nd annual Family Fitness Fun 5k and Expo, Sunday, April 3 at the Burrage Mansion in Redlands. 

Dixie Watkins, co-founder and co-president of the guild, says the event will accomplish two worthwhile objectives.

“We wanted to create an event where families can have a great time doing something healthier than sitting on the couch and watching TV,” Watkins shares. “We also wanted to raise money to benefit the patients of Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital and underscore the fact that we have such an incredible place for kids right here in our backyard.”

The mansion gates will open at 7:00 a.m. allowing runners time to register for the 8:00 a.m. race while still having time to enjoy warm-up activities at 7:30 a.m.

“The run is not timed,” Watkins informs. “It’s a fun run/walk for people of all ages. We’ll have firefighters there handing out medals to participants and a representative from Redlands Police Department will explain the rules and outline the course.”

In addition to the run, the event will feature an overabundance of fun and educational activities for kids and families.

“We’ll have an obstacle course for the kids,” Watkins notes. “There will also be a fire truck and ladder for the kids to crawl on. We’ll have a reptile petting zoo with Bill Hayes, face painting, crafts, lawn games, golf, tennis and lots of other things.”

Watkins says there will be plenty of activities to interest the adults as well. “At the Expo, we’ll have approximately 25 booths with a variety of ideas for how to get fit and healthy.” 

Local organizations that have signed up for a booth so far include:

  • CrossFit
  • Fox Dance Studio
  • Garden Pediatrics
  • KFROG 95.1 FM and 92.9 FM
  • Jazzercise
  • Karate for Kids
  • Loma Linda University School of Dentistry
  • My Gym
  • Redlands Country Club
  • YMCA Circus

“The guild recognizes that Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital does a really good job of taking care of sick kids,” Watkins concludes. “We support them for doing that, but we also care about all the other kids and families in our community. We want to help them stay well and healthy. That’s why we sponsor this event. We think the emphasis on prevention, activity and exercise in the fresh air is just what the doctor ordered.” 

For more Information about registration fees and how to sign up, please visit www.LLUCH.org/5k

]]>
Wed, 16 Mar 2016 09:20:00 -0700
4264:25704 <![CDATA[Serving and self: How a life of service can impact your life]]> Contributed report Have you thought about your personal happiness recently? Are you looking for ways to improve your outlook and “Live it?”

Next week, the director of Community-Academic Partners in Service (CAPS) will discuss the powerful and transformative impact service can have on your life. CAPS serves as the on-campus hub for connecting Loma Linda University Health students and staff to local service opportunities.

All are welcome to attend this free, educational presentation where you can ask questions live; please invite family and friends.

  • Time: 5:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. (this is an online presentation)
  • DateWednesday, March 23, 2016
  • Presenter: Tina Pruna, MPH, director, Community-Academic Partners in Service

You may join this online WellnessLIVE presentation here.

]]>
Wed, 16 Mar 2016 14:47:56 -0700
4264:25724 <![CDATA[Helpful Honda commercial features donation made to LLUCH NICU]]> Briana Pastorino Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital’s (LLUCH) neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) is featured in the latest Southern California Honda Dealer’s “Random Acts of Helpfulness” campaign. The television commercial is the first to feature a hospital in the campaign. Both TV and radio spots launched this week and will run through May 1.

 

In the SoCal Honda commercial, the men and women in blue delivered three vanloads of equipment to the NICU, including specialized thermometers and stethoscopes, privacy screens, blankets, mobiles, bouncy seats and a rocking chair. All items are those that can be used by nurses and parents of babies being treated in the NICU.

“We are beyond grateful for the donations made by the SoCal Honda dealers,” said Tristine Bates, RN, director, LLUCH NICU. “The new equipment will definitely enhance our nurses’ ability to provide quality patient care to their tiny patients and will provide parents with an extra sense of comfort.”

Jennifer Gingras, a NICU nurse at LLUCH submitted a letter through the Help Me Honda website, requesting items she and other NICU nurses needed. About three weeks later, she received a call from the Helpful Honda people stating they would fulfill her request.

“I couldn’t believe it was actually happening,” Gingras said.

Also a mom to a baby who was treated in the NICU at LLUCH, Gingras knows firsthand what moms and nurses need on the unit. She attributes her experience at LLUCH to becoming a NICU nurse. “We care for about 80 babies, and can always use more equipment.”

“Her story perfectly embodies the spirit of Helpful Honda,” says Lauren Kay, spokesperson for SoCal Honda Dealers, “giving back to an organization, in this case Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital, that helped save her son 27 years ago, inspiring her to become a NICU nurse.”

Since 2007, the SoCal Honda Dealers have been committed to lending a hand in the community and surprising residents with unexpected Random Acts of Helpfulness. Why? Because it’s their job to be helpful - no strings attached. 

Last year, the SoCal Honda Dealers began sharing their Random Acts of Helpfulness on TV to continue helping people who truly need a hand. Residents are encouraged to share a request for help through Help Me Honda, which is exactly what Gingras did.

]]>
Thu, 17 Mar 2016 10:27:56 -0700
4264:25696 <![CDATA['LIVE IT: Online Health Show' 12th episode released]]> Nancy Yuen On Jan. 1, 2016, Loma Linda University Health’s online health show, “LIVE IT,” made its debut, just in time for New Year’s resolutions. Based on Loma Linda University Health research and encouraging others to LIVE IT, each episode features simple tips to live healthier, longer. 

As of March 17, 12 episodes are now available online, with topics ranging from the benefits of eating avocados and almonds to research findings showing that drinking at least five glasses of water can reduce one’s chance of having a heart attack. 

So far “LIVE IT” has received 100,437 Facebook views while “The best Super Bowl commercial not to air,” an ad promoting the show, went viral on Facebook. It has received more than 465,630 views.

According to Cosmin Cosma, director of advancement films, “The first launch of the ‘LIVE IT: Online Health Show’ happened on Facebook. We wanted to connect with our fans and friends to inform and promote the new show to them and their friends. This helped us create awareness of the show with people already connected to Loma Linda University Health.” 

Advancement films in collaboration with marketing, Web center and public relations are creating a strategic plan for the promotion of this new online health and wellness resource. 

According to Cosma, the next strategy will be to promote the health information resource of the “LIVE IT: Online Health Show” in one location.

“The platform for this will be YouTube,” he says. “By connecting with health and wellness reporters at various media outlets around the nation and health and wellness bloggers and online influencers, we want the “LIVE IT: Online Health Show” on YouTube to be a resource, a place to go for the latest research in health and wellness information. This will help place Loma Linda University Health on the map as a leading research organization for wellness and prevention; its audience will be more deeply connected to our organization, returning for more content in the future.”

Watch the latest episode here:

]]>
Wed, 16 Mar 2016 09:54:12 -0700
4264:25691 <![CDATA[Unleashing the dream]]> Terry Swenson It won’t take you long as you wander around our grounds and buildings to encounter the fact that Loma Linda University Health is a place built on stories. These are stories about common people with uncommon dreams. 

They were ordinary people doing seemingly impossible things. Men and women from diverse backgrounds, with distinctive skill sets, united together by an audacious dream -- “To continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus... to make man whole.”

Time and again, the “experts” told them it could never be done. Yet it was. How? Because they believed their dream was God’s dream for them. Our forbearers did what they could do and took what little they had and asked the Dream Giver to supply the impossible.

Nehemiah believed the promises of God that Israel would return to their homeland. He believed and dreamed the audacious dream of rebuilding the Temple. But before he laid a plan or made a brick, Nehemiah prayed! 

Just what does it mean to pray?  Ellen White, the one to whom God gave the dream to establish Loma Linda, defines it like this:

“Prayer is the opening of the heart to God as to a friend. Not that it is necessary in order to make known to God what we are, but in order to enable us to receive Him. Prayer does not bring God down to us, but brings us up to Him. (Steps to Christ, p. 64)

Why do we pray? We pray because of who God is. Because of His faithfulness and love, we can dream audacious dreams -- dreams that are far beyond our resources -- and wait for God to show up and keep His word.

Our prayers can “bring us up” to Him. There is nothing we can’t do or achieve if we collectively follow God’s dream and honor Him by our faith and our lives.

Nehemiah said it this way:

“We are your servants, the people you rescued by your great power and might.  O Lord, please hear my prayer! Listen to the prayers of those of us who delight in honoring you.” (Nehemiah 1:10 to 11, NLT)

Starting in April, join us as Loma Linda University Health unites in our prayers and fasting for focus and dreaming God-sized, God-given dreams. It’s only natural. It’s in our Loma Linda DNA.

Together as One Loma Linda we will prayerfully see the next chapter of the story develop in and around us, for we are the people of His stories.

]]>
Tue, 15 Mar 2016 17:21:37 -0700
4264:25726 <![CDATA[Strength in our diversity]]> Richard Hart Loma Linda has a long-established commitment to accepting all people as children of God. We have defined inclusiveness to cover the many variations of the human experience, whether ethnic, cultural, physical, faith-based, or others. Our challenge has always been to maintain our uniqueness as a Christian community, with certain moral, social, and ethical commitments, while also accepting the diversity that our students, faculty, staff and patients represent.

I am acutely aware that we do not always demonstrate this inclusiveness as well as we would wish. During the years, we have tried various organizational and educational strategies to promote and encourage acceptance and inclusion on our campus. Most have been helpful, though it occasionally seems tough to penetrate all components of this campus with a single message of inclusion. 

In consultation with various leadership groups on campus over the last few months, we are launching a new approach to this issue. I am assembling a broad group of representatives from across the campus to be part of a Diversity Council with the mandate to listen, understand, accept, and educate our campus family on diversity issues. Because of its significance, I will chair this group and will share the list of individuals with the campus as soon as it is complete. Our goal is to understand our differences as best we can, encourage an honest dialogue about those differences, respect each other in all circumstances, and build on the strength that comes from our diversity. This will be a campus-wide effort, spanning our health care enterprise, faculty, staff, and students, including our hiring and promotion practices. It will both instruct and learn from our many service-learning exposures in this community and abroad. 

This is not lip service. My personal intent is to be persistent and proactive as we try to grow our culture into one of acceptance and inclusion. Each member of the Diversity Council will be asked to serve as eyes and ears across campus to listen carefully and encourage this understanding. You are urged to share your concerns with any member so they can bring that to the attention of the entire Council as we seek consensus and strategy.

Thank you for joining with me in this critical journey in our world of today. This country, this world, needs our brand of acceptance for all, and I trust this campus can truly become a haven for those who may feel marginalized, or even wounded, in this place dedicated to healing.

]]>
Thu, 17 Mar 2016 11:07:14 -0700
4264:25667 <![CDATA[Update on I-10/Tippecanoe interchange and surface street lane closures]]> Contributed report San Bernardino Associated Governments (SANBAG) and its partner agencies have designed major improvements to the Interstate 10 (I-10) and Tippecanoe Ave. interchange.

Now in Phase II of the project, the idea of the design is to improve access to key destinations, one of which is Loma Linda University Medical Center as well as local businesses. The final result will relieve traffic congestion and reduce the impact on local property owners and residents.

Please be aware of the following closures: 

  • March 6 - 11, 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. the Interstate 10 (I-10) Eastbound and Westbound on- and off-ramps at Tippecanoe Ave. will experience intermittent full ramp closure due to ongoing grading.
  • March 6 - 11, 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. alternating lane closures will occur on northbound and southbound Anderson Street/Tippecanoe Ave. from Court St. to Lee St. due to median excavation and ongoing grading. The excavation will also result in alternating lane closures for the Westbound and Eastbound outside lanes on Redlands Blvd. 

It is important for motorists and pedestrians to always use caution while traveling through work zones, near barricades and equipment. Please adhere to all posted signage in the construction zones and remember, “slow for the cone zone.”

To learn more about this project and sign up for closure alerts, click here.

 

]]>
Wed, 09 Mar 2016 15:47:35 -0800
4264:25669 <![CDATA[Summertime mission opportunities in South America and Asia are fast approaching ]]> Courtney Haas This summer Loma Linda University’s Students for International Mission Service (SIMS) program is offering stimulating service opportunities in both South America and Asia with mission trips going to Peru and China.

While the June China trip is already full, it is not too late to make mission service a part of your summer and travel to Peru. As a Loma Linda University Health student, staff or faculty member, you are eligible to sign up for this incredible experience.

Returning for the second year in a row, SIMS is excited to work with ADRA Peru in an effort to understand environmental factors that can cause harm to local families. SIMS is also collaborating on this project with La Sierra University and Pacific Union College to take on an ecological stoves program. With participants from all three schools, individuals will work together to install clean burning stoves in the home that will allow the local families to have cleaner air indoors, reducing the intake of carcinogenic materials that are inhaled when using the traditional equipment available to them.   

To learn more about how you can be a part of SIMS and sign up today for your experience of a lifetime, please click here.

]]>
Wed, 09 Mar 2016 15:51:25 -0800
4264:25679 <![CDATA[Learn how to maintain healthy lifestyle changes for life]]> Esmerelda Guerrero, MS, RD Have you made exciting healthy changes in your life, but need some accountability to continue?  Lifestyle changes are a process that take time and require support. Once you make healthy changes, the difficult part is committing and following through.

The Living Whole Wellness Program is offering a way to help. In the For Life program you will learn how to make changes for life. Participants will receive accountability for their goals, as well as tips on how to maintain healthy changes and information on how to strategically plan for roadblocks or barriers.  

Call and join today to make healthy changes…for life.

The For Life program is available to all employees and their spouses covered by the Wholeness Plan. The program begins March 31, and will take place Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. at the Loma Linda University Health 101 building.

Because the For Life program offers personalized services, a one-on-one appointment with your facilitator is required before the program start date.

To register, call ext. 14007 before the March 25 deadline.

]]>
Wed, 09 Mar 2016 16:39:25 -0800
4264:25665 <![CDATA[Uncertainty]]> Dilys Brooks     I said, “I beseech You, O Lord God of heaven, the great and awesome God, who preserves the covenant and lovingkindness…let Your ear now be attentive and Your eyes open to hear the prayer of Your servant. Nehemiah 1:5-6 NASB 

For over 10 years now, it has been my privilege to serve at Loma Linda University Health. During this time, it seems as if there is always construction going on. I saw the Gentry Gym taken apart and the Centennial Complex constructed. We have added a dorm, parking structures, remodeled buildings, built a new water tank, constructed a bridge and underpass, began a major capital campaign -- Vision 2020 -- and we are beginning construction of two new hospitals. Throughout this time period we have had people join and separate from our organization. We are -- and continue to be -- in a constant state of growth. 

As I have had occasion to interact with a fraction of the employees, faculty, staff and students, one common theme remains persistent -- uncertainty. This uncertainty seems to be more palpable in the areas of our community where changes appear interminably and frequently.

Reflecting on the current climate of Loma Linda University Health, the biblical narrative recorded in the book of Nehemiah has comforted and inspired me. Nehemiah, found in the Old Testament, provides a firsthand account of the rebuilding of Jerusalem after the Hebrew people had returned from exile. This cup bearer in the palace heard of the turmoil affecting his people as they embarked upon this major construction project, then turned to the only One who would provide him with encouragement, comfort and support. Nehemiah prayed and fasted, pleading with God to remember His covenant and show hesed -- His steadfast love to His children.

Beginning in April, we invite and encourage our One Loma Linda community to pray together and fast each Tuesday asking for God’s guidance and wisdom as we continue to build and grow. Perhaps as we have been in this process of developing and expanding we have hurt others or may have been hurt. Others of us have been plagued with fear, doubt, anger, hurt, un-forgiveness and uncertainty. Let us follow Nehemiah’s example, seeking God together, confessing our sins with the absolute assurance that God will respond.

We pray together because the story that unfolds in Nehemiah attests that God did indeed hear, see and respond to the plight of the rebuilders. Loma Linda is founded on a legacy of vision, prayer, sacrifice and faith. During this season of uncertainty may we be certain of this -- His ears are attentive and His eyes are open to the prayer of His servants.

]]>
Wed, 09 Mar 2016 15:34:47 -0800
4264:25681 <![CDATA['LIVE IT:' How to reduce your risk for colon cancer]]> Advancement films ]]> Many may remember being told as a child to eat your greens because they make you healthy and strong! Well, even as an adult this idea still holds true. In fact, pairing it up with dried fruit, legumes and brown rice may build a protective barrier against colon cancer.

]]>
Wed, 09 Mar 2016 17:01:23 -0800
4264:25677 <![CDATA[The Joint Commission awards advanced certification to LLUMC's VAD destination therapy program]]> Contributed report On Feb. 24, 2016, Loma Linda University Medical Center was again awarded advanced certification in Ventricular Assist Device (VAD ) destination therapy from The Joint Commission.

To achieve this certification, Loma Linda University Medical Center underwent an on-site review on Feb. 22 and 23 with a Joint Commission reviewer who evaluated the program’s compliance with all requirements for the Disease-Specific Certification and Ventricular Assist Device destination therapy standards, practice guidelines and performance measures.  

We want to recognize the efforts of the adult cardiac team, operating room, emergency department and each of the interdisciplinary team members for their tremendous efforts and the demonstration of true excellence in this achievement. 

The Joint Commission is an independent, not-for-profit organization which accredits and certifies more than 21,000 health care organizations and programs in the United States. Joint Commission accreditation and certification is recognized nationally as a symbol of quality that reflects an organization’s commitment to meeting certain performance standards.

Congratulations to the entire team and thank you for your dedication to the patients at Loma Linda University Health and the excellence of care that is provided.

]]>
Wed, 09 Mar 2016 16:19:00 -0800
4264:25506 <![CDATA[I-10/Tippecanoe interchange and surface street closures continue ]]> Contributed report San Bernardino Associated Governments (SANBAG) and its partner agencies have designed major improvements to the Interstate 10 (I-10) and Tippecanoe Ave. interchange. 

The construction traverses the cities of Loma Linda and San Bernardino and due to the size and magnitude of the project, it has been split into two phases. Phase I was completed in 2014 and Phase II began in Feb. 2015.

The project was designed to improve access to key destinations, one of which is Loma Linda University Medical Center as well as local businesses. The final result will relieve traffic congestion and reduce the impact on local property owners and residents.

Please be aware of the following closures:

  • Feb. 28 through March 4, 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. the Interstate 10 (I-10) Eastbound and Westbound on- and off-ramps at Tippecanoe Ave. will experience intermittent full ramp closures due to ongoing grading.
  • Feb. 28 through March 4, 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. the alternating lane closures will occur on northbound and southbound Anderson Street/Tippecanoe Ave. from Court St. to Lee St. due to median excavation and ongoing grading. The excavation will also result in alternating lane closures for the Westbound and Eastbound outside lanes on Redlands Blvd.

It is important for motorists and pedestrians to always use caution while traveling through work zones, near barricades and equipment. Please adhere to all posted signage in the construction zones and remember, “slow for the cone zone.”

To learn more about this project and sign up for closure alerts, click here.

]]>
Wed, 02 Mar 2016 11:23:15 -0800
4264:25517 <![CDATA[Starting an epidemic of joy]]> Contributed report A mindfulness workshop series led by John K. Testerman, MD, PhD, associate professor, Loma Linda University department of family medicine, will meet once a week for 10 weeks beginning Wednesday, March 9. The meetings will be held from 5:30 to 6:15 p.m.

The theme for the series will be, "Starting an epidemic of joy:  Using mindfulness to rediscover meaning and satisfaction in our work or study."

This group is open to all and will be a good place to learn mindfulness meditation. There will be time devoted to teaching, discussion and silent practice. Participants who are more experienced will learn applied mindfulness skills.

The series, which is offered at no charge, will be held in the Strutz Library in the department of psychology building at the corner where Anderson Street turns south in downtown Loma Linda.  

Use the sidewalk entrance near the large electronic time and temperature sign. The Strutz Library is the first door on your left after you enter the building. 

After 5:00 p.m. non-ticketed parking is available in the restricted lot on the corner. Parking is also available along the curb on Anderson Street by the entrance. Don’t use the building entrance from the parking lot as it may be locked after 5:00 p.m. 

Go around to the right and use the building entrance from the sidewalk. Someone will be posted there to let you in until starting time.  If you come late and find it locked, knock loudly.  As we will need to start promptly at 5:30, please arrive on time; the group will dismiss on time as well.

If you have questions, you may email jtesterman@llu.edu.

]]>
Wed, 02 Mar 2016 16:22:53 -0800
4264:25508 <![CDATA[Feeling stuck? ]]> Contributed report Are you fulfilling the purpose of your life, or do you feel stuck? While everyone may feel stuck from time to time, getting unstuck can be a powerful and empowering journey.

The Living Whole Wellness Program is offering a way to help. In the Unstuck Program you will receive accountability for your goals, tips on how to move forward and information on how to stay healthy through the process.

The program has been designed to help participants with everything from weight management and stopping tobacco use to job and life satisfaction. Spring is a season of renewal and can be the perfect time to refocus your energy and take a fresh look at your goals.

The program is available to all covered employees and their spouses and will take place Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. at LLUAHSC Services 101 building beginning March 31.

The idea is to offer personalized services; therefore, a one-on-one appointment with your facilitator is required before the program start date.

To register please call ext. 14007 before the March 25 deadline.

Please note that the Unstuck Program is a cognitive educational group and is free only when attendance requirements are fully met. To learn more, click here.

]]>
Wed, 02 Mar 2016 11:47:59 -0800
4264:25515 <![CDATA[Watch how a vegetarian diet will help you live longer]]> Briana Pastorino ]]> Want to decrease your chances of chronic disease? Researchers have found that a vegetarian diet does just that. Watch the latest episode of "LIVE IT" and join the conversation by using #LiveItLomaLinda #LiveIt.

]]>
Wed, 02 Mar 2016 13:51:12 -0800
4264:25503 <![CDATA[APC vespers to focus on missions around the world ]]> Contributed report Please join in the upcoming Annual Postgraduate Convention (APC) Friday night vespers service featuring Loma Linda University School of Medicine (LLUSM) students and alumni. This special vespers, sponsored by the Alumni Association, LLUSM, will take place March 4 at 7:00 p.m. in the Loma Linda University Church.

This year the theme is, “We’ve a story to tell to the nations,” and the guest speaker will be Chris Oberg, head pastor, La Sierra University Church.

In addition to Oberg, the evening will be filled with diverse stories of missions from future Deferred Mission Appointees (DMAs) and stories of struggle and triumph over devastating circumstances in the mission field.

Here is a sampling of what has been planned for the evening:

  • Interviews with two School of Medicine students in the DMA program: Linden Doss, ’16, and Anna Wijatyk, ’18, by President Richard Hart, ’70
  • A special screening of the video, “Ebola Warriors,” that tells the stories of SDA Cooper Hospital (Liberia) and Waterloo SDA Hospital (Sierra Leone) as they struggled and survived the Ebola crisis
  • The presentation of the Association of International Medical Services (AIMS) Global Service Award to Sherman Nagel, ’40, and Mary Small, ’66
  • and much more!

All are welcome to experience vespers and fellowship. Invite your family, friends and neighbors.

Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. and there will be refreshments following the program. For questions or further information please call the Alumni Association office at (909) 558-4633.

]]>
Wed, 02 Mar 2016 11:19:26 -0800
4264:25513 <![CDATA[Notes from the President - Compassion]]> Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   March 2016
Compassion

The second of our seven University values that I would like to discuss in this Newsnote is compassion, following our acronym -- JCHIEFS. Richard Hart It seems a rather obvious value within a health sciences complex -- one of the reasons we all go into health care in the first place. Yet, my experience suggests compassion is expressed in many different ways, for various reasons and with different outcomes.

Our culture today generally expects compassion to be an expression of a mature stable society, current political winds notwithstanding. This is an intellectual or extrinsic form of compassion -- culturally required that we express sympathy, even support, when something unfortunate happens to someone. In previous decades, we would rally around a family, or even a town or city, and provide whatever support was needed. Now we have institutionalized that support through insurance systems, FEMA, Red Cross, ADRA and other means. There is still an opportunity for individual involvement, but most of us just watch the news, shake our heads, and appreciate what others are doing.

But at an individual level, I am concerned about intrinsic compassion -- that virtue that arises from within, that moves our hearts and emotions. It comes from somewhere deep in our backgrounds or perhaps even our genes. The Good Samaritan sculpture on our campus is one of the best biblical examples of this form of compassion. So the question is: can we enable compassion, can we mentor and mold it, make it both realistic and effective? I think this is the challenge that Loma Linda must face as we seek to prepare the next generation of health care professionals.

Compassion is not just pity. It is not even sympathy or empathy, as important as those are in helping us identify with pain and suffering. Compassion includes a call to action -- to do something about a situation. It is the mandate that drives those of us in the healing professions to seek relief from suffering, search for cures, and initiate treatment protocols. But it must be tempered. Watching their first patient suffer and die is often unnerving for young nurses or medical students, as they want so much more from their relationship. We talk about the "wall" or "guard" that we watch develop, and even encourage, as we help students come to grips with pain and loss as a necessary part of becoming an effective professional.

Richard Hart and llamasBut how do we keep from becoming too jaded, too used to pain and death that it doesn't move us anymore? I was impressed last Friday as I watched a young veterinarian who had come to our house to "put down" our first llama, Hope, who had apparently suffered a stroke, and was clearly suffering from the effects of the aging process. My wife, Judy, and I had talked for weeks about whether it was "time." We finally concluded it was. As she prepared to begin, Judy went back to the house. Over the years she has taken this step too many times with our dogs.

The vet gently patted Hope. The first injection, a sedative, was given. She and I watched Hope gradually wobble and lie down. Then the final injection to stop her heart was given as we silently waited. Though this vet did not know us or Hope, she showed genuine concern for this end-of-life moment. She gently murmured "she's gone" as she listened for the final heartbeat.

I am not making a case for euthanasia -- in people or animals -- though there is much discussion today on how best to humanely end a person's suffering. We have many more opportunities to express compassion during life than at the end. What do we do with the homeless man at the freeway off ramp? The Syrian refugees? Starving children in Africa? Or perhaps even closer ones, the disenfranchised gang member who can only find meaning in violence or drugs? The dysfunctional single mom trying to feed her children in San Bernardino? Answering these question is not for the faint-hearted! Many pull away, subconsciously knowing they either don't have an acceptable answer or are afraid to consider options.

These types of questions require us to look deeper at the causes of pain and suffering around us. Can we get at the roots -- the causes of these cycles of despair? Is there a Christian obligation — a moral imperative -- to do something? As I have said before in these Newsnotes, God doesn't expect us to have all the answers, but it seems He does expect us to be concerned, to care, to engage. It would seem that the act of engagement is more important than finding the solution. Certainly for the person involved, this is what matters.

So compassion made its way onto our list of core values -- an imperative for those of us with a commitment to serve, to help our fellow humans walking so fragilely on this earth. May it be embedded so deeply we never lose it and always seek for more effective ways to express our concern and support. And may it also distinguish LLU alumni, wherever they are, and in whatever circumstances they find themselves.

Sincerely yours,

Dr. Hart signature

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

Office of the President, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350

Copyright © 2016 by Loma Linda University

]]>
Wed, 02 Mar 2016 12:45:49 -0800
4264:25470 <![CDATA[I-10/Tippecanoe interchange and surface street lane closures]]> Contributed report San Bernardino Associated Governments (SANBAG), and its partner agencies have designed major improvements to the Interstate 10 (I-10) and Tippecanoe Avenue interchange. The project traverses the cities of San Bernardino and Loma Linda.

The magnitude and complexity of the improvements made it necessary to be complete the project in two phases. Phase I construction was completed in 2014, and construction for Phase II began in Feb. 2015.

The project was designed to improve access to key destinations including Loma Linda University Medical Center and local businesses, to relieve traffic congestion and to reduce impact to local property owners and residents.

Please be aware of the following closures:

  • Feb. 25 and 26, 10:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. the Interstate 10 (I-10) Eastbound on- and off-ramps at Tippecanoe Ave. and the I-10 Westbound on- and off-ramps will experience intermittent full ramp closures due to ongoing grading.
  • Feb. 25 and 26, 10:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m., alternating lane closures will occur on northbound and southbound Anderson Street/Tippecanoe Ave. from Court St. to Lee St. due to median excavation, striping and ongoing grading. The median excavation, striping and grading will also result in alternating lane closures for the Westbound and Eastbound outside lanes on Redlands Blvd.

Motorists and pedestrians should always use caution while traveling through work zones, near barricades and equipment.

Thank you for your patience and support during this improvement project. Please adhere to all posted signage in the construction zones and always remember to “slow for the cone zone.”

]]>
Thu, 25 Feb 2016 12:47:25 -0800
4264:25459 <![CDATA[Plan now to visit the APC scientific poster session and technical exhibits]]> Contributed report All Loma Linda University Health employees are invited to visit the technical and scientific exhibits during the 84th Annual Postgraduate Convention (APC), sponsored by the Alumni Association, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, March 6 and 7. 

The technical exhibits and scientific poster session will be located on level four of the Centennial Complex. They will be available Sunday, March 6, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and Monday, March 7, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Please stop by the APC registration desk near the technical exhibits on level four to pick up a visitor’s badge. Student badges are required.

Those interested in attending a APC lecture or event may register onsite at the APC registration desk. Continuing Education credit is available for physicians and nurses. For more information, click here or call ext. 44633. 

]]>
Wed, 24 Feb 2016 17:19:35 -0800
4264:25472 <![CDATA[Spiritual Health will help you 'LIVE IT']]> Advancement films ]]> Feeling blue? Go to church! Those who attend church on a regular basis report better physical and mental health. Watch this week’s episode of “LIVE IT” to find out more.

]]>
Thu, 25 Feb 2016 14:18:34 -0800
4264:25474 <![CDATA[Did you see the news?]]> Briana Pastorino Last week we shared the story of young Mariah Salomon who received care at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital. The 2-year-old from Coachella was treated for a horrific dog bite in August last year. Drs. Nathaniel Peterson and Paul Walker re-implanted the young girl’s face during a five-hour surgery that took place under a microscope. Several media outlets captured the story, sharing the amazing work of Loma Linda University Health.

See the ABC 7 coverage here.

Watch the KESQ coverage here.

]]>
Thu, 25 Feb 2016 14:23:21 -0800
4264:25476 <![CDATA[March is National Nutrition Month!]]> Esmerelda Guerrero, MS, RD Celebrate National Nutrition Month with the Living Whole Wellness Program by trying some fresh-tasting recipes that are low in sodium, saturated fat and cholesterol. 

The Living Whole Wellness Program is pleased to provide you and your family with a series of recipes that meet the Living Whole criteria for healthy eating. To access the recipes, click here.

Here are some tips to kick-start eating right for National Nutrition Month

  • Choose locally grown vegetables and fruits whenever you can. Aim for a variety of colors.
  • Trade in white rice for whole grains such as barley, quinoa and brown rice.
  • Rely on foods that contain healthy protein such as tofu, and a variety of beans and nuts.
  • Good choices of liquid vegetable oils include canola, sunflower and olive oil.
  • Stock your kitchen with high-quality basics including extra virgin olive oil, fresh and dried herbs, and a variety of unsalted nuts such as walnuts, almonds and pistachios in order to enhance recipes with flavor. 
]]>
Thu, 25 Feb 2016 15:17:10 -0800
4264:25464 <![CDATA[Spiritual plan - 2016 to 2020: Built on a foundation of faithfulness]]> Nancy Yuen On the cover of the Loma Linda University Health Spiritual Plan (available here) is a picturesque depiction of the “Come Unto Me” sculpture that is adjacent to Loma Linda University Medical Center’s main entrance.

The bronze sculpture depicts Christ welcoming people of all ages into the circle of His friendship and healing.

The Loma Linda University Health Spiritual Plan encompasses many of the ways that the employees, students and volunteers of Loma Linda University Health are living the organization’s mission, “to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Christ.”

“The Spiritual Plan,” says Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, “Spans the years 2016 to 2020. It has been a product of a committee across this campus, embracing both the academic side and the health care side as we chart Loma Linda’s future. This is not a new direction; we have been doing this for 110 years. It is a reaffirmation of our principles, our values, who we are and what we are committed to.”

Dr. Hart introduces the plan in a short video here.

The Spiritual Plan is built around four principles of Loma Linda University Health’s strategic goals: wholeness (a fundamental part of Loma Linda University Health since its beginning); integration across the organization; growth; and the Loma Linda experience (the unique environment and ambiance that is created across campus).

According to Gerald Winslow, PhD, vice president for mission, the plan contains specific ways that employees, staff and faculty can be engaged in the plan's implementation. “Each of the plan’s 19 initiatives,” he says, “has been assigned to a lead office. Achievement of the plan will require the collaboration of thousands of colleagues led by hundreds of leaders.”

The support and participation of each member of Loma Linda University Health will make this an even stronger element of the very special culture at Loma Linda University Health.

]]>
Thu, 25 Feb 2016 11:04:03 -0800
4264:25354 <![CDATA[LLU Children's Hospital Foundation Gala raises over $1.3 million for Vision 2020]]> Briana Pastorino The 23rd annual Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital (LLUCH) Foundation Gala presented by Hard Rock Hotel Palm Springs raised an astounding $1,312,165 on Thursday, Feb. 11. Proceeds from the event, held at Riverside Convention Center and themed “Illuminate: The Path to Vision 2020,” will benefit the Vision 2020 campaign to build a new Children’s Hospital tower.

“We are grateful to each and every individual and organization who made the success of the gala possible,” said Jillian Payne, executive director, LLUCH Foundation. “The continued support allows Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital to illuminate hope and healing in our community.”

The program opened with a special performance of “This Little Light of Mine” and the national anthem by the Mount Rubidoux Seventh-day Adventist Children’s Choir.

Chef Robert Irvine, host of Food Network’s “Restaurant: Impossible,” was the celebrity guest and assisted with the live auction portion of the evening, along with auctioneer Jim Nye. Irvine had visited with patients at the hospital prior to the gala and he shared his experience with gala guests, encouraging them to spread some generosity.

“It was an unforgettable experience to spend time with these kids,” Irvine said. “We all are here for one thing, and it is those children who need our help.”

One patient who did get that help was 2-year-old Mariah Salomon from the Coachella Valley. In August last year, a large portion of Mariah’s face – from the top of her nose to the top of her lip, including a large part of her cheek – was re-implanted after she was bitten by a dog. The team of doctors who treated her agreed that re-implanting her facial tissue was probably the most intrinsically rewarding case they’d ever done. Three weeks after the incident, Maria was able to go home. Mariah and her mom, Veronica Pena, were recognized on stage during the gala.

Watch Mariah’s story below.

Entertainment for the evening was provided by The Silhouettes who earned worldwide acclaim on season six of “America’s Got Talent.” They created beautiful shadow imagery and an inspirational story line of a young girl’s journey through life after receiving care at LLUCH.

The evening concluded with a check presentation that lit up the room. Loma Linda University Medical Center CEO Kerry Heinrich expressed his appreciation to the supporters of LLUCH after the event.

“Our Children’s Hospital is a place where hope lives for patients, parents, families and friends,” Heinrich said. “Thank you for choosing to illuminate a path worth taking. You are a vital source of strength and power – a building block for our bright future.”

]]>
Wed, 17 Feb 2016 16:04:49 -0800
4264:25353 <![CDATA[Eat a Mediterranean diet and 'LIVE IT']]> Advancement films ]]> We’ve all heard that we should avoid fatty foods. But research actually shows that we should eat fatty foods. That is, the healthy ones like olive oil to fight bad cholesterol. Check out this week's episode of "LIVE IT."

]]>
Wed, 17 Feb 2016 16:02:49 -0800
4264:25374 <![CDATA[Goal 4 Health soccer program provides opportunities to 'Live it!']]> Nancy Yuen This year marks the seventh season of Goal 4 Health. The soccer program will provide plenty of opportunities  to “live it!”

Registration is now open for all children ages 3-12 who would like to play in the Goal 4 Health soccer league this spring. Parents are invited to register their children online here. Regular registration for kids to play in the league closes Friday, Feb. 26, with late registration continuing until Friday, March 18.

The program is made possible by volunteers and team parents; additional volunteers are needed as preparations begin for another fun-filled year. There are plenty of opportunities for those who enjoy teaching and being a mentor -- Goal 4 Health is in need of volunteer coaches and assistant coaches. Information about how to become a volunteer is available here.

The program goal is to give parents and volunteers the opportunity to help promote a healthy lifestyle for kids through soccer and healthy living activities. This includes presentations which will provide information about how to stay active, healthy and safe. Topics this year will be presented by various mentors and students from Loma Linda University Health.

Please visit Loma Linda University Health's Community-Academic Partners in Service website at caps.llu.edu to learn about additional volunteer opportunities.

 

]]>
Thu, 18 Feb 2016 10:57:31 -0800
4264:25344 <![CDATA[Celebrate American Heart Month: plan now to experience an online heart health seminar]]> Contributed report The month of February is American Heart Month, a time to assess your own heart health and that of your loved ones. 

In honor of Heart Month, the Living Whole Wellness Program is hosting a FREE live streaming seminar. 

  • Date:  February 24
  • Time: 5:30 to 6:00 p.m.

Do you know your risk of heart disease? You will have the opportunity to hear Anthony Hilliard, MD, CVL medical director, Loma Linda University Medical Center division of cardiology, as he discusses heart health issues.

You will also be able to ask Dr. Hilliard questions live, via the web. Mark your calendar now so that you won't miss out on this exciting seminar. You may also share the link below with your family and friends.

Watch Dr. Hilliard at myllu.llu.edu/livingWhole/wellnesslive

]]>
Wed, 17 Feb 2016 14:15:42 -0800
4264:25340 <![CDATA[An auction of service vehicles will begin Feb. 19]]> Contributed report Loma LInda University Health's fleet service department will hold a vehicle auction Feb. 19 through March 4, 2016.

Trucks, vans, cars and a motor home are included in the auction. The opening bid for each vehicle must be a minimum of $250.

Fleet personnel will be available to answer questions Feb. 19 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. only. It is up to the buyer to have all of their questions answered and to inspect a vehicle before bidding/purchasing the vehicle. The auction will be held using sealed bid process.

SSS

  • Bidders must be employees of Loma Linda University Health
  • The bidding period will be 10 working days from start of the auction
  • Bidders will be notified of the date and times that the bid will be open and shall have the right to be in attendance
  • The highest bid over the $250 minimum will be accepted
  • The winner is responsible for removal of the vehicle from the property within five business days after the auction is completed 
  • Terms of payment will be cash or cashier’s check. Personal check will be accepted, but the vehicle will not be released and will not clear title until the check has been honored by the bank
  • Loma Linda University Health in no way implies or provides a warranty on the vehicle being sold
  • Loma Linda University Health will sell vehicles in an “as is” condition

The successful bidders, in the event of a tie will be given the opportunity to submit higher bids. The winning bidder will be chosen by random drawing if neither is willing to submit a higher bid.

To learn more about this auction, please contact Dominic Reichmuth, fleet and transportation manager, at dreichmuth@llu.edu

 Click the link attachment to view what vehicles are up for auction. 

]]>
Tue, 16 Feb 2016 16:39:28 -0800
4264:25314 <![CDATA[Save yourself the headache of getting a ticket]]> Contributed report The new year means new projects, new meetings, exciting new endeavors and for most, the renewal of parking permits.

If your Loma Linda University Health permit is in need of renewal, a courtesy notice should have been sent to you via email by the Online Parking System (OPS) administrator advising you of the necessary steps. 

To renew your permit online, you will need to review and confirm your personal details, permit details and vehicle details. After you have edited and confirmed each category, click the “Submit” button. The last step is to click “Renew.” If successful, you will receive a green check mark at the top of the screen along with your next permit expiration date. 

Please be advised that the Online Parking System can now be accessed from any computer or mobile device. If you have not received an email but want to review your information, please click here

]]>
Thu, 11 Feb 2016 09:34:16 -0800
4264:25331 <![CDATA[ February is a great time to 'fall in love with Rideshare!']]> Contributed report At Loma Linda University Health, the Rideshare program offers participants the opportunity to receive subsidies each month based on what transportation they take to work. Whether through vanpooling (participants sign up to ride with six or more individuals), taking the bus, biking, walking, or carpooling with two or more riders, each employee can be part of a bigger initiative to reduce traffic and decrease pollutants that are harmful to the environment and community members. Those who bike or walk also gain a healthier lifestyle.

Vanpooling offers a $50 subsidy per month per rider, and bus transit offers a $25 subsidy per month toward your bus pass. Biking offers $60 per quarter distributed through payroll. Walking provides $60 per quarter distributed through payroll, and carpooling offers 10 gallons of gasoline to each Rideshare member each month.

Included in the Rideshare program benefits are guaranteed rides home, preferred carpool parking and quarterly drawings for prizes.

The program is available to all full-time Loma Linda University Health employees.

To learn more about the benefits of this program, please visit www.iecommuter.org and check out the attachment below.

To join the program, email rideshare@llu.edu or call 909-651-3033 or ext. 53033. Ask for Patricia Ibarra or Julie Mandy.

]]>
Thu, 11 Feb 2016 14:55:06 -0800
4264:25305 <![CDATA[Where to park during temporary lot closures]]> Contributed report As most of you have probably noticed, exciting things are happening throughout campus. The campus transformation project is well underway, from the Medical Center patient parking structure next to Campus Street, to the newest phase, the widening of Prospect Avenue. 

In order to accomplish the widening for the new hospital entrance, which will be a four-way lighted intersection, the north sidewalk on Prospect and a portion of the parking lot will need to be removed in order to make room for the entry and exit lanes of the Medical Center. This phase requires the shutdown of LOT P for six weeks.

In order to accommodate the employees who park in LOT P, temporary parking will be available to LOT P permit holders, directly to the south in a parking lot which will eventually become a valet lot.

The closure will begin Wednesday night and the expected project completion date is March 23.

For more information please contact Cori Stiles at ext. 53035 or via email at cstiles@llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 11 Feb 2016 08:25:15 -0800
4264:25322 <![CDATA[Be heart healthy and 'LIVE IT' by drinking more water]]> Advancement films ]]> Drink up! That is, at least five glasses of water a day. Researchers found that doing just that reduces the chances of having a deadly heart attack. Check out the latest episode of “LIVE IT” to learn more.

]]>
Thu, 11 Feb 2016 12:54:12 -0800
4264:25316 <![CDATA[Visit the iLLUtech Valentine's Day Bash at the Campus Store]]> Susan Onuma and Nancy Yuen Did you know that purchases made at iLLUtech at the Campus store benefit Loma Linda University Health? “When computers and software are purchased from our own Apple store,” says Vincent Garcia, manager, “it helps the foundation as it keeps profits that would otherwise have been spent off campus within our organization. These funds help support activities and work that takes place throughout our campus.”

iLLUtech is sponsoring a Valentine’s Day Bash today (Feb. 11) from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. The event will include free prizes, food, handmade cards and gifts.

There will also be a drawing for an iPad Mini 2 on Feb. 18; one entry per person (must visit the store to sign up).

The Valentine’s Day Bash provides employees, students and the community with the opportunity to become familiar with the products and services available at iLLUtech.

As an authorized Apple retailer, iLLUtech offers basic technical support and assistance in purchasing or operating Apple devices.

 “I welcome all staff of Loma Linda University Health to stop by and browse,” Garcia says. “We can order any Apple product that’s not available in the store.” The store is open Monday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.; Fridays from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Anyone needing repairs to his or her Apple products may bring them to the store. Repairs are made off campus, and computers are usually returned within three or four days. The Apple authorized store partnered with the Barnes & Noble Campus Store in Dec. 2012, and it participated in the Campus Store’s ribbon-cutting ceremony and re-opening celebration on Friday, Feb. 15, 2016.

]]>
Thu, 11 Feb 2016 10:28:47 -0800
4264:25320 <![CDATA[Cooking with Heart: take control of your health during National Heart Month]]> Contributed report Every 43 seconds, someone in the United States has a heart attack while each minute, someone dies from a heart disease-related event. 

Luckily, you can take control of your health. Eating a heart-healthy diet can help decrease your risk of heart attack and stroke. 

Plan now to celebrate American Heart Month by learning new recipes to stay heart healthy.

Wednesday, Feb. 17, join the Living Whole Wellness Program and the Loma Linda University Medical Center Cancer Center for Cooking with Heart, a free, tasty and healthy celebration! 

Participants will receive live instruction, recipes to take home and everyone will eat for FREE!

Time:  6:00 to 7:30 p.m.

Location:  Nichol Hall Kitchen

Space for Cooking with Heart is limited, so call ext. 14007 to register today.

Information about all February Heart Month events is available on the Living Whole website:http://myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole/heartHappy/

 

]]>
Thu, 11 Feb 2016 12:41:37 -0800
4264:25324 <![CDATA[Loma Linda University Health and Bear Valley Community Healthcare District enter into affiliation agreement]]> Susan Onuma Loma Linda University Health and the Bear Valley Community Healthcare District have entered into an affiliation agreement in order to enhance community access to high quality care in the Bear Valley. An event announcing the affiliation was held at Bear Valley Community Hospital on Feb. 10, 2016.

“Loma Linda University Health is focused on improving the health status of communities and individuals throughout the expansive four county region it serves,” said Kerry Heinrich, CEO of Loma Linda University Medical Center and executive vice president, hospital services, Loma Linda University Health. “We are delighted for this new opportunity to expand our services in this community and work in collaboration with the Bear Valley Community Healthcare District.”

Under this affiliation agreement, Loma Linda University Health will provide resources to district-run Bear Valley Community Hospital, enhancing medical and hospital services to the Bear Valley community. Additionally, on-site specialty care in selected service areas will be developed, where feasible, at Bear Valley Community Hospital and the Bear Valley Community Hospital Rural Health Clinic.

The affiliation will provide a streamlined system for patient referrals for those in need of specialty care not available at Bear Valley Community Hospital, such as oncology, cardiology, endocrinology, and neurosurgical services.

A plan is also being developed to conduct regularly scheduled specialty services and consultations via telemedicine using telecommunication and information technologies which will provide clinical health care from a distance. The partnership is also investigating the establishment of a program where Bear Valley Community Hospital will serve as a rural training site for Loma Linda University medical students and residents.

David Faulkner, chief executive officer of Bear Valley Community Hospital, said, “The mission of the Bear Valley Healthcare District is to deliver the highest quality health care to the residents of and visitors to Bear Valley through the most effective use of available resources. The affiliation with Loma Linda University Health is an exciting opportunity for us and for the community we serve.”

The two parties met at Bear Valley Community Hospital on Feb. 10 to kick off the affiliation.

“This affiliation with Bear Valley Community Healthcare District and Bear Valley Community Hospital is another step in fulfilling our strategic plan for establishing a clinical integration network that increases our ability to provide quality healthcare to local communities while also offering easy access to tertiary, quaternary and advanced specialty care for the vast four-county area that falls within our area of responsibility,” stated Loma Linda University Health president, Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH. “We intend to integrate our commitment ‘to make man whole’ with mission and devotion to the community." 

]]>
Thu, 11 Feb 2016 13:16:48 -0800
4264:25326 <![CDATA[Elaine Hart receives Kinzer-Rice Award]]> James Ponder Elaine Hart, MD, assistant professor and director, OB-GYN student clerkship program, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, received the 2016 Kinzer-Rice Award for Excellence in University Teaching during a Feb. 4 evening ceremony in the Centennial Complex.

Hart, whose teaching philosophy grows out of a natural love for people and her enthusiasm for her chosen profession, was nominated for the honor by a former student. 

“I like to get to know my students, to find out what brought them into medicine, to learn what is their passion,” she says. “I know they don’t all want to choose OB-GYN for their careers, but I want it to be a great rotation for them. I want them to refer back to what they learned so they may better care for pregnant or lactating patients.”

Caring for OB-GYN patients was a passion of Hart’s long before she became a physician.

“I went to medical school after a career in nursing,” she reveals. “I completed two years of medical/surgical nursing and telemetry, and the rest of my 19-year nursing career was spent in labor and delivery and home care of high-risk pregnancy patients.”

Hart maintains an active family life. With a total of five children (three of whom grew up to be nurses), five grandchildren and two more on the way, life is never boring.

Some of the enthusiasm Hart brings to the role of mentoring future physicians spills over when she describes what she likes best about teaching.

“I love it when a student comes up to me and says, ‘Dr. Hart, I really didn’t know what to think about facing an OB-GYN rotation,’” she reveals. “’But I learned a lot and had a great time.’

“They may have been a little bit petrified at first,” she concludes, “but they come away having had a good experience. I love when that happens!”

Hart makes no attempt to conceal her excitement on becoming the fifth Kinzer-Rice award recipient in the history of the university. “It is incredible,” she beams. “I am honored! There are so many others equally as deserving as I. It is exciting to represent the School of Medicine.”

The purpose of the Kinzer-Rice Award is to call attention to the importance of teaching in the life of Loma Linda University and to honor a full-time faculty member every two years who exemplifies the finest traditions of education. Faculty members from all eight Loma Linda University schools are eligible for the reward, which is named after deceased School of Dentistry faculty members Drs. Robert Kinzer and Bruce Rice. 

A video created for the Feb. 4 award ceremony may be viewed here.

 

 

 

 

 

]]>
Thu, 11 Feb 2016 13:57:56 -0800
4264:25329 <![CDATA[Loma Linda University Health's non-Super Bowl commercial goes viral]]> Briana Pastorino and Nancy Yuen A commercial for “LIVE IT: The Online Health Show,” produced by advancement films, has gone viral. As of Feb. 11, the ad, a lighthearted portrayal of a senior “living it,” has received 373,000 Facebook views; 4,084 shares and 4,233 likes. The commercial may be viewed here.

“Knowing that Super Bowl weekend was around the corner," says Cosmin Cosma, director, advancement films, "and wanting to capitalize on the buzz surrounding Super Bowl commercials, we decided to release an ad promoting the ‘LIVE IT’ show on the Loma Linda University Health social media platforms on game day. The social media team suggested that we promote the ad as “The best Super Bowl commercial to not air during the game.”

“The 30-second commercial focuses on one of the healthy, active seniors our community is known for,” says Cosma. “It shows a senior outdoing a 20-year-old at the Loma Linda University Drayson Center and ends on a text slide that says: ‘Learn secrets to living healthier, longer. LIVE IT: The Online Health Show,’ linking back to the show website: LiveItLomaLinda.org.”

“We contacted Drayson Center,” says Cosma, “asking them to suggest an active senior in the community. They identified Don Prior as a good candidate for the commercial. We met with him and he agreed to star in the commercial. Don has a good sense of humor and didn’t mind us taking a few minutes of his time to film the commercial. 

Both the North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists and the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists shared the post with their Facebook fans.

]]>
Thu, 11 Feb 2016 14:30:46 -0800
4264:25201 <![CDATA[Experience service ]]> Courtney Haas “Mission trips mean something special to me. Ever since my first trip in the summer of 2015, I have fallen in love with going on mission trips. The need in other countries for resources, medication and health information is so great that I feel I need to take every opportunity I have to give my time and service to others,” Shawn Smith, a student in the school of pharmacy shared when she returend from a recent Students for International Mission Service (SIMS) trip to Belize.

In addition to traveling to Belize after Christmas and through the new year, SIMS also went to Honduras. Nichole Valdivia, a student in the School of Nursing, was a part of this trip and also shared her experience.

“Tears were brought to my eyes seeing how each of the team members united to bring the best service possible to the community. There were nurses, physical therapists, dental hygienists, dentists, counselors, and many students from the School of Public Health. It was amazing to see how working together as a team made things easier. We shared our knowledge with each other while we all learned new skills.”

These two students went on different SIMS trips to two very different locations, but the results were the same. Lives changed. Impact made. Lasting working relationships and friendships formed. Health care information, ideas and techniques shared. All these things were applied as two teams of students and staff from Loma Linda University Health joined together to travel to Honduras and Belize over the New Year’s holiday.

February is well underway and as you take on this new year, why not make volunteering with SIMS a part of your plan? This year SIMS will be traveling to new locations and connecting people as we continue to serve those in need around the world.

Please visit lluglobal.com/SIMS to learn about upcoming trips. 

]]>
Thu, 04 Feb 2016 09:04:13 -0800
4264:25235 <![CDATA[Plan now to attend Healthy People in Healthy Communities Conference]]> By Susan Onuma and Nancy Yuen The 2016 Healthy People in Healthy Communities Conference, March 8 to 9, is a concerted effort to embark on innovative pathways for improving the population’s health, enhance overall well-being and foster greater equity in our society. 

This year’s conference theme is “Building a Culture of Health. On March 9, the keynote address will be presented by LaMar Hasbrouck, MD, MPH, executive director, National Association of County and City Health Officials.

Presenters recently added include Philip Mangano, who served as the federal government’s “Homeless Czar” under the George W. Bush and Barack Obama administrations before establishing a nonprofit, the American Roundtable to Abolish Homelessness. Mangano will serve as plenary speaker on the opening day of the conference.

Also speaking on March 8 will be Anita Chandra, director of RAND justice, infrastructure and Environment. Chandra leads studies on civic well-being and urban planning; community resilience and long-term disaster recovery; effects of military deployment; health in all policies; and child and health and development. 

For our region, Ken Yale, vice president of clinical solutions, ActiveHealth Management, will lead the hospital & health systems CEO roundtable which includes St. Bernardine, Arrowhead Regional and Desert Regional Medical Centers, Kaiser Permanente, Loma Linda Veteran’s Administration and Loma Linda University Health as they discuss how to provide our population with high-quality, affordable medical care while simultaneously addressing the broader set of health determinants.

Join us as we connect with the national shift toward building a culture of health in America and across our global communities.  

Student admission is $99 per day or $149 for both days, and general admission is $249 per day or $349 for both days. The admission fee for each day includes special events held on that day, including the evening reception (March 8), a networking breakfast March 9, and a luncheon for School of Public Health alumni on March 9. 

Up to 11 CE/CME units are available. Additionally, the Healthy People in Healthy Communities conference may be taken for one to three units of academic credit through Loma Linda University School of Public Health as class PHCJ 524.

To register, or for more information about the conference, workshops, poster sessions, or networking events, click here

]]>
Fri, 05 Feb 2016 11:12:05 -0800
4264:25190 <![CDATA[Celebrate Heart Month ]]> Contributed report February is American Heart Month and is a great time to raise awareness about heart disease. Living a healthy lifestyle can greatly reduce one's risk of developing heart disease. 

In recognition of American Heart Month, stay heart healthy and celebrate your heart with us.

Join in a variety of fun and informative events. 

Today, Feb. 5: National Wear Red Day

Celebrate today National Wear Red Day with the Living Whole Program. If you see someone wearing red, smile and say hello!

Thursday, Feb. 11, 2016: LLUFitExpo

Plan now to attend LLUFITExpo. There will be booths to visit, free food to enjoy, giveaways and much more!

Time: 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Location: Drayson Center pool area

LLUFitExpo is sponsored by the Loma Linda University Student Association. For more information, contact Loma Linda University Student Activities Department.  

For more information about fun and informative February Heart Month events, visit the Living Whole website http://myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole/heartHappy/

]]>
Wed, 03 Feb 2016 10:43:51 -0800
4264:25230 <![CDATA[Plan now to attend the 84th Annual Postgraduate Convention]]> Contributed report Registration is now open for the 84th Annual Postgraduate Convention (APC) taking place March 4 to 7 on the Loma Linda University campus. The convention is hosted by the School of Medicine Alumni Association.

The weekend will provide abundant opportunities for medical professionals to acquire necessary continuing medical education credits, as well as to connect with classmates and peers, medical organizations and medical students.

Those interested in registering for APC 2016 can do so online, by mailing in a completed advance registration form, or calling the Alumni Association office at (909) 558-4633.  

Joanne Lynn, MD, MA, MS, who leads the Center on Elder Care and Advanced Illness for Altarum Institute, will open the APC weekend scientific session Friday morning as guest speaker for the Jack W. Provonsha Lectureship with “Physician Assisted Dying: Peril and Promise.” A bioethics roundtable discussion will follow, taking a look at disputable and likely candidates for physician-assisted dying.

Many other presentations are scheduled for Friday, Sunday and Monday. Guest speakers include Wayne W. Grody, MD, PhD, director, Molecular Diagnostic Laboratories and Clinical Genomics Center at UCLA, who will present “Adventures in Clinical Genomics,” and Maie St. John, MD, PhD, chair, head and neck surgery and co-director of the UCLA head and neck cancer program, who will present “Precision Medicine in the Clinical Frontier.”

One of the weekend’s highlights is the APC Gala, where the Alumni Association will recognize its honored alumni and the Alumnus of the Year. Entertainment for the evening will include medical student musical talent and stories. This year the gala will be held Sunday evening at the Riverside Convention Center. This is an important scheduling change from previous years.

Additional weekend activities include a campus tour led by Loma Linda historian Richard Schaefer; morning devotionals and Friday night vespers with guest speaker Chris Oberg, senior pastor of the La Sierra University Church; the traditional fellowship luncheon and AIMS Mission Symposium on Sabbath; and the Loma Linda University Medical Auxiliary vespers and brunch; click here for more information. Medical alumni are encouraged to contact their class representatives for information regarding class reunions taking place during the weekend.

Lectures and presentations will be held primarily in the Centennial Complex in the Damazo Amphitheater and nearby rooms. APC registration and the scientific poster sessions will take place on the fourth floor of the Centennial Complex.

]]>
Fri, 05 Feb 2016 09:20:22 -0800
4264:25207 <![CDATA[Co-generation plant to provide campus power during temporary SCE service shutdown ]]> Eric Schilt and Courtney Haas Construction is underway and as plans continue to move forward for the new hospital, it is important for Loma Linda University Health staff, employees and students to be aware of campus construction projects.

Beginning at 6:00 a.m. Feb. 12, Southern California Edison (SCE) will be working on the main electrical feed for the entire Loma Linda University Health campus and will shut down their service for 83 consecutive hours.

The pathway of the current main electrical feed to the campus is in conflict with the footprint of the new hospital building project. SCE has been working for the last few months on the rerouting of that feed. This shutdown is required to complete the changeover from the existing feed to the new feed that is safely out of the building project’s parameters.

Due to Loma Linda University Health’s Central Utility Plant having co-generation engines that can sustain power on campus, no impact to normal power is expected during this time. However, there is an increased risk for loss of normal power and the Proton Accelerator will be unavailable during the duration of this work. 

This work has been scheduled during this time frame because the cool weather and weekend lower the energy demand of the campus, reducing the risk of any loss to normal power. 

For more information please contact Eric Schilt at eschilt@llu.edu or ext. 55692.

]]>
Thu, 04 Feb 2016 09:39:10 -0800
4264:25208 <![CDATA[Lose weight with two popular Super Bowl snacks ]]> Briana Pastorino ]]> Gearing up for the big game? In this latest “LIVE IT” episode, we reveal some Super Bowl party foods that can help you lose weight!

]]>
Thu, 04 Feb 2016 09:53:29 -0800
4264:25240 <![CDATA[Notes from the President -- A Culture of Inquiry]]> Dr. Richard Hart   February 2016

Several weeks ago we lost a humble giant, Dr. Lawrence Longo, at the age of 89. Richard Hart He graduated from Loma Linda University while it was still the College of Medical Evangelists in 1954, took a residency in OB-GYN at UCLA, and then answered the call to mission service and spent three years at Ile-Ife Hospital in Nigeria. Upon returning, he moved into an academic career, first at UCLA, then University of Pennsylvania, before finally returning to Loma Linda in 1968 to launch a remarkable career in research.

While valuing Loma Linda's traditional emphasis on medical education and quality clinical care, Dr. Longo felt the University also needed excellence in research and set out to model that effort. He established the Center for Perinatal Biology in 1973 and began an incredible legacy of continual National Institutes of Health (NIH) funding for the next 43 years, among the longest in the country. Just a month before his death, we recognized Dr. Longo and three of his colleagues: Bill Pierce, Charlie Ducsay, and current Center Director Lubo Zhang, for the remarkable accomplishment in receiving a perfect score on their latest NIH grant application of nearly $8 million. They continue to do groundbreaking research on fetal health and all the variables that impact it.

I had the privilege of receiving periodic visits from Dr. Longo at my office. He had a wide-ranging mind, with interests in many issues of society, including medical history, art, and campus beauty. He was active in the American Osler Society, commemorating the life and example of this medical giant, and served as president of the society at one point. He had a remarkable collection of Nigerian medical artifacts as well as books on the history of medicine. I visited him at his home to get some documents signed a year ago, where it was clear he enjoyed the beauty of nature and flowers. His kitchen table was just what you would expect from a "mad scientist," piled high with journals, papers and his latest writing project.

Research has not always had a high priority at Loma Linda. In the 1950s, when Frank Lemon and Richard Walden proposed the first research on Adventists, comparing the causes of death among Church members in California to an American Cancer Society cohort, there was considerable debate in our Board meetings about whether this should be done. "What if we don't look so good; do we really want to know?" That first study, now called the Adventist Mortality Study, laid the groundwork for one of the largest prospective studies in the country, the Adventist Health Study, and subsequently Adventist Health Study 2, with 96,000 participants. We now all talk proudly of the results, showing increased longevity and productivity. But it was the fear of the unknown that gave our earlier leaders pause.

Richard HartIt was into this early milieu that Dr. Longo gambled his future career. And it worked. He helped create a culture of inquiry on campus that has spread into multiple fields. We now embrace and have confidence in our researchers pushing the boundaries, from the widely respected work of Jim Slater, creating the world's first proton treatment unit, to Len Bailey and his pioneering work on infant heart transplantation. But there have been many others, from bench scientists to social scientists. We recognize one or two each graduation season now, and recruit promising young faculty who show potential for creating new knowledge.

But we need to do more, much more. As part of Vision 2020, we are committed to building a new and unique research facility on campus, a place where scientists from multiple disciplines can rub elbows, bringing skills and perspectives from their own backgrounds to bear on common problems.

Our plans are to build this in the center of campus, replacing Risley Hall, where many of us studied physiology and pharmacology, but which has largely aged out of usefulness. This new research complex will be three stories tall, nearly 100,000 square feet, with a blend of core facilities and equipment, flex space for junior faculty to get started, and a mixture of social and basic scientists. $50 million of our Vision 2020 goal will go toward this project, but we hope to raise more to fully equip the building as well as establish various endowment funds to support our researchers. To learn more, click here.

Loma Linda faculty now publish over 500 peer-reviewed articles each year, a number that is climbing steadily. They study many different areas, but have a predilection to focus on seven core themes: Lifestyle/Vitality/Longevity; Maternal/Fetal/Neonatal Health; Regenerative Medicine; Infectious Disease; Cancer; Stroke/Brain Trauma/Neurological Diseases; and Health Disparities among Diverse Populations.

A recent audit showed over 100 funded studies looking at various aspects of prevention. There are some exciting new areas of inquiry that fit so well into our culture. Current work by the perinatal group and Penny Duerksen-Hughes is looking at the impact of epigenes, the switches that turn individual genes, and their expression, on or off.

While we all have our basic DNA determined by our parents, it looks like we can influence our epigenetic switches and which of those genes manifest themselves. A mother's lifestyle practices during pregnancy may have a big influence on the future life and health of her baby. Adult diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity, all at epidemic proportions in the world, may be determined to some degree by early fetal life and a mother's behaviors at that time. Could this impact be what the Bible talks about when it reflects on influences "unto the third and fourth generation?" It currently appears that consistent behaviors over several generations can actually make permanent changes in the genetic risk of various diseases.

For these reasons, we feel strongly that Loma Linda University Health needs to make a firm commitment to growing our research emphasis on campus. We need a new building, and skilled faculty and students to push these boundaries. We need to strengthen this third leg of our academic health sciences center in addition to education and clinical services.

The world is waiting for answers to questions which we are uniquely positioned to answer. We will need your help in accomplishing these goals of creating a system for taking research ideas from the laboratory to the patient and community. Our hope is to raise sufficient funds to build our new building in several years and launch a new wave of discovery.

We want each of our students to be infected by this spirit of inquiry, which we believe is a key part of Loma Linda's commitment to the world. Nothing would have made Dr. Longo more proud or would have justified his confidence in Loma Linda. As he always said — "persevere."

Research building

Sincerely yours,

Dr. Hart signature

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

Office of the President, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350

Copyright © 2016 by Loma Linda University

]]>
Fri, 05 Feb 2016 11:36:13 -0800
4264:25116 <![CDATA[New I-10 off-ramp opens]]> Nancy Yuen The new I-10 westbound off-ramp is now open to traffic. 

Drivers will notice that the off-ramp's new configuration is comprised of two left turn lanes on Tippecanoe Ave. that exit toward the city of Loma Linda, a through lane exiting to Harriman Blvd. and a right turn lane to travel toward San Bernardino. 

The opening of the new westbound off-ramp allows the construction team to work on the new westbound loop on-ramp. 

The addition of the new westbound loop on-ramp will provide improved access to the freeway and will eliminate traffic conflicts that now occur on Tippecanoe Ave.

Drivers are reminded to use caution when traveling through the area, as construction is ongoing.

The westbound loop on-ramp is scheduled for completion in the spring of 2016.

 

]]>
Wed, 27 Jan 2016 17:56:14 -0800
4264:25136 <![CDATA[Check out the newest episode of 'LIVE IT' on laughter and memory]]> Advancement films ]]>

Feeling forgetful? Laughter has proven to be great medicine, improving short-term memory. Check out Loma Linda University Health's online health show, "LIVE IT."

]]>
Thu, 28 Jan 2016 11:35:05 -0800
4264:25142 <![CDATA[Electronic W-2s are ready for pickup]]> Contributed report Employees who registered to receive electronic wage and tax statements through www.paperlessemployee.com/LomaLinda should have recently received an email notification from PaperlessEmployee.com with the subject line “IMPORTANT TAX RETURN DOCUMENT AVAILABLE” that their electronic 2015 W-2 statement(s) are now available.

This communication was sent to the email address(es) designated during the registration process. Please be assured that this message is safe and is not SPAM. 

Mailed W-2 statements will be postmarked by Feb. 1 for employees who did not register to receive electronic W-2 statements.

For more information highlighting the benefits electronic wage and tax statements provide, please refer to the Jan. 1, 2016, PAYS article found at:

PeoplePortal > Payroll > Previous PAYS Topics > W-2s 20160101 PAYS.pdf 

Questions? Contact payroll at (909) 651-4004, ext. 14004, Monday to Thursday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. You may also email Payroll@llu.edu.

 

 

]]>
Thu, 28 Jan 2016 11:42:49 -0800
4264:25107 <![CDATA[Winners announced for Global Health Institute photo contest highlighting service]]> Courtney Haas Loma Linda University Health’s Global Health Institute is excited to announce the winners of their first international photography contest.

Students, deferred mission appointees, global service awardees, hospital personnel, Loma Linda University faculty and other international mission service participants were busy all around the world in 2015. This contest was initiated to highlight just a few of the remarkable people and the sites where they worked. 

In addition to the photo, participants were asked to provide photo captions sharing why their image encompasses the idea of service. So whether the photographer waited patiently to capture just the right moment or simply stumbled upon a shot, submissions are in and the winners have been chosen. 

Congratulations to the 2015 winners. They are:

First place: Merrick Lopez This photo was taken at Lake Malawi in June 2015 when our pediatric ICU team went to teach pediatric advanced life support and pediatric fundamentals of critical care to the medical workers at Malamulo Hospital and Blantyre Seventh-day Adventist Hospital.

This photo encompasses the idea of service to me because it demonstrates the welcoming attitude the locals had toward us. I was taking a picture of my daughter and these women were smiling and enjoying watching us. They had nothing but huge smiles for us as they looked up from their daily chores and that was the attitude that we experienced from others while we served them with our lectures.

Second place: Jason Blanchard This photo is titled “Nothing left to lose.” On Feb. 5, 2015, this woman was one of the thousands displaced by the flooding in the Lower Shire Valley of Malawi. She has nothing earthly left to smile about and yet when I met her at a retainment camp in Chickwawa, not two miles from her home which was under 10 feet of mud silt and rushing water, her smile shows that there is more to life then our earthly possessions.

The honorable mention winners are (in alphabetical order):

Summer Blount: This photo, titled “Brotherly Love” was taken in Aug. 2015 in Mbingo, Cameroon.

One evening while hiking through some of the villages surrounding the hospital I saw these two young boys. Initially the smaller one was walking behind his older brother and seemed to be getting upset about something, as he started to cry, the older brother sat down and held out his arms to comfort the younger one and he immediately stopped crying. I consider that the 'service' of brotherly love.

Kathy Clem: Tanzanian mother with her baby at University of Arusha Medical Clinic on the Seventh-day Adventist University of Arusha campus. This photo was taken in April 2015, where Dr. Hart started his international career doing research on over fluoridation of the water supply. Notice the mother’s teeth. This is due to excessive fluoride in the water.

The photo encompasses service because the mother had waited for over four hours for her baby to be rechecked by a medical team. She was concerned because at the first visit she had been informed that her baby had an enlarged spleen. Our final evaluation was that the baby had suffered from Malaria, but was recovering nicely on the medications prescribed by our team several days before. The joy on the mother’s face made the entire trip worth it to me.

Wonha Kim: This picture was taken during a Students for International Mission Service (SIMS) trip to Malwi in June of 2015. 

The picture embodies one of the key aspects of service – joy. Time and again, I have witnessed firsthand how both the providers and recipients of service experience joy. Service also facilitates cross-cultural bond, which I believe this picture portrays in the open hands, smiling faces and forward movement of the children. Finally, Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these” (Matt 19:14). As I saw these children rushing to us as we arrived to serve then, I thought of how we should always strive to walk in the footsteps of Jesus and serve the most vulnerable as we further the kingdom of God here on Earth.

Jason Lohr: For six weeks during Sept. and Oct. 2015, my family and I served in Nepal. We did a free medical clinic outreach in one of the villages, (Sangachok), most affected by the earthquake. This photo encompasses service because it shows the bonds of service that helps to unite cultures during times of struggle.

To learn more about GHI and how you can become involved this year, please visit www.lluglobal.com

]]>
Wed, 27 Jan 2016 16:16:18 -0800
4264:25138 <![CDATA[Banners of support offer encouragement to Medical Center staff in light of San Bernardino shooting.]]> Contributed report The medical teams and support staff at Loma Linda University Medical Center worked fervently to save the lives of those who were brought through the emergency department in the aftermath of last month’s mass shooting.

While hearts cried for those who could not be helped, staff remained diligent with the task at hand, yet their hearts, thoughts and prayers were with all victims and their families during the hours and days following the tragic event.

Local hospitals, including University of Southern California Medical Center, RADY’s Children’s Hospital (San Diego, CA) and University of California, Irvine, offered to send staff to assist in caring for victims and their loved ones.

On the day of the tragedy, local businesses sent food staples, including lunches from St Frances Hospital, Angelo’s restaurant and Firehouse Subs; the Double Tree Inn sent cookies, and Costco sent pallets of water to sustain employees facing long hours of care and service. Pizza deliveries also arrived from anonymous emergency department nurses from Boston and Texas.

Over the past several weeks, hospital staff and administration have received numerous cards and letters from members of the local community and from communities and individuals all across the country.  The Medical Center of Aurora sent a large banner with over 100 staff signatures and a note of encouragement from Dan Miller, president and CEO.

This banner was similar to the one that they received in the days following the Aurora theater shooting that was sent to them by the hospital that received victims from the mass shooting at Virginia Tech. The banner they had received was deeply meaningful for them, and they paid it forward to Loma Linda University Medical Center staff and medical teams as a symbol of love, prayers, support and caring. 

“We are so moved by these quiet acts of fraternity and compassion,” said LLUMC CEO Kerry Heinrich.

Those letters and cards have been compiled onto a large banner that is now hanging with the banner from Aurora downstairs in the A-level hallway of the Medical Center near the elevators and emergency department. 

Loma Linda University Health staff and students are invited to take a moment to read these heartfelt messages. 

]]>
Thu, 28 Jan 2016 11:38:09 -0800
4264:25151 <![CDATA[Heritage Research Center to hold annual book sale]]> Contributed report A book sale will be held at the Heritage Research Center Feb. 29 to March 4. The sale will include a large selection of Seventh-day Adventist books, periodicals and special items.

The Heritage Research Center is nestled in the Bernier Radcliffe wing of the Del E. Webb Memorial Library, across the breezeway from Magan Hall.

Throughout the year, patrons are welcome to sit, study and reflect in the Heritage Lobby. They may also conduct research in the reading room, the C. Burton Clark Heritage Room, housed in the northwest corner of the Vernier Radcliffe wing.

The Heritage Research Center’s collections include books, pamphlets, manuscripts, photographs, personal papers, periodicals, film and audio recordings. 

The center’s major collections include:

  • The Millerite Movement and the development, rise and progress of the Seventh-day Adventist Church
  • Ellen G. White – her life, her legacy, her writings and role in the Seventh-day Adventist Church
  • Biblical Prophecy and the Sabbath
  • Health Reform, Vegetarianism, Hydrotherapy, and Adventist hospitals and sanitariums.
  • History of the Health Sciences-Medicine, Nursing, Dentistry, Psychiatry, and more
  • Seventh-day Adventist sermons and music.

Also Center also houses the official Archives of Loma Linda University and its various entities, including Board Minutes, theses and dissertations, photographs, and department papers and publications.

]]>
Thu, 28 Jan 2016 13:40:14 -0800
4264:25149 <![CDATA[Week of Renewal: Defined by Grace ]]> Nancy Yuen Week of Renewal, a yearly, campus-wide event designed to unite faculty, students, staff and volunteers from throughout Loma Linda University Health in spiritual refocusing, was held Jan. 11 to 16. The theme this year was “Defined by Grace.”

Many enjoyed the daily Morning Praise Sessions: “Grace…the gift that keeps on giving;” “Grace changes everything;” “Six word memoir;” “Grace and the science of unity” and “Receiving is believing.”

For those who were not able to attend the Praise Sessions or would like to share them, videos are available here.

Week of Renewal also provided the opportunity to give back through a clothing drive benefiting patients at Social Action Corps (SAC) Health System. For every two bags of clothing collected, Goodwill donated a $10 gift card.

This year, a record 262 bags of clothing were donated, which will provide 131 Goodwill gift cards to families in San Bernardino.

]]>
Thu, 28 Jan 2016 13:06:35 -0800
4264:25114 <![CDATA[February is Heart Month]]> Contributed report Heart disease is the No. 1 cause of death in the United States, killing millions of people every year.

Did you know 80 percent of heart disease and stroke events are preventable? 

This February, we invite you to stand up and make a heart-healthy change in your life.

Join us all month for informative, heart-pumping events at Loma Linda University Health. 

Spread the Word

Share information about heart health with your loved ones, colleagues and friends. 

Honor a loved one on the Memorial Wall at the Student Pavilion

The Memorial Wall will provide the opportunity to honor a loved one who has been affected by heart disease, whether by diagnosis or personal loss. Submit photos to Dannielle Christiansen at dchristiansen@llu.edu, or drop off printed photos at her office in the student activities office. Printed photos are preferred, but need to be approved.

The deadline for photo entry is Feb. 19. On Instagram, you may tag photos #LLUAllHeart. Remember to make sure your Instagram profile is set to public in order for posts to be viewable.

Heart Month events are offered in partnership with the Living Whole Wellness Program, the School of Allied Health Professions, the School of Public Health, Loma Linda University Student Association and Loma Linda University Medical Center.

Stay tuned for more February Heart Month events!

]]>
Wed, 27 Jan 2016 17:12:10 -0800
4264:25043 <![CDATA[Tickets on sale now for Ontario Reign Jersey Night, to benefit LLUCH]]> Briana Pastorino The Ontario Reign is once again hosting a night dedicated to Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital. Tickets are now on sale for the 6:00 p.m. game on Saturday, Feb. 6.

Watch the Ontario Reign take on the San Jose Barracudas at the Citizen’s Business Bank Arena while enjoying fun activities, a 50/50 drawing and an autographed jersey auction.

Reign team members will be wearing custom made jerseys boasting the LLUCH logo during the game. Immediately following the game, players sign their jerseys and they are auctioned off. Proceeds will benefit LLUCH.

Tickets are $10 and can be purchased online here or by calling (909) 558-5367.

]]>
Thu, 21 Jan 2016 11:52:36 -0800
4264:25048 <![CDATA[An invitation to 'Say NOW']]> Contributed report Are you ready to start losing weight? The Living Whole Wellness Program is here to help.

The Say N.O.W. (No to Overweight) program is a four-month program that provides weight management resources to employees and covered spouses.

We partner with weight management experts across campus to offer classes that provide practical tips and real-life skills emphasizing nutrition, physical activity, accountability, and behavior modification in a judgment-free environment. In addition, a registered dietitian works with participants on an individual level to help them reach their goals.

To get more information or to sign up, call ext. 14007 or (909) 651-4007.

Information about other Living Whole Wellness Programs and Services can be found here.

The Say N.O.W. Program is open to Loma Linda University Health employees and covered spouses; the program is free when attendance and program requirements are met.

]]>
Thu, 21 Jan 2016 12:23:05 -0800
4264:25033 <![CDATA[LIVE IT: Active standing, the new sitting ]]> Advancement films ]]> The average American spends 13 hours a day doing this. Some researchers call it the “new smoking.” In fact, you’re probably doing it right now--sitting. But getting up and moving periodically throughout the day is key to protecting you from developing chronic diseases.

]]>
Thu, 21 Jan 2016 10:58:42 -0800
4264:25045 <![CDATA[23rd Annual Foundation Gala to illuminate hope and healing for the children of our community]]> Briana Pastorino Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital 23rd annual Foundation Gala presented by Hard Rock Hotel Palm Springs will be held at the Riverside Convention Center, Thursday Feb. 11. This year’s theme, “Illuminate: The Path to Vision 2020,” will highlight the vision of the future for Children’s Hospital.

Guests will be entertained from the moment the evening begins, starting with the Illuminarium hour, where a visual masterpiece of light will be created around the silent auction items. The event program will include a surprise opening act as well as a performance from the Silhouettes, who earned worldwide acclaim on “America’s Got Talent.”

Chef Robert Irvine will also be a special guest of the evening as part of a first-ever culinary experience, and he will also be lending a helping hand during the live auction portion of the evening.

K-Frog radio personality Heather Froglear and her daughter, Peyton, who is also a patient of LLUCH, will emcee the event.

For more information on the gala, or to buy tickets, click here.

]]>
Thu, 21 Jan 2016 11:55:26 -0800
4264:25030 <![CDATA[Drayson Center launches online service]]> Nancy Yuen Whether you enjoy a run on the indoor track before work, or meeting friends for a game of basketball in the evening, Drayson Center is a place where students, faculty, staff and the community can “Live It!”

Drayson Center membership is one of the many employee and student benefits at Loma Linda University Health. A new online service that launched Friday, Jan. 15, makes it easy to check or update contact information and to renew annual memberships.

To join the service, click on the “sign up” link here. After clicking “Sign in,” select “Create a new account.”

In addition to renewing memberships, members can now register for Drayson Center courses online. It’s easy to browse for courses by category, or to search quickly for courses by entering keywords or a course code.

If you have questions about the online registration process, please call Loma Linda University Drayson Center during regular business hours at (909) 558-4975.

]]>
Thu, 21 Jan 2016 10:18:09 -0800
4264:25019 <![CDATA[Lyndon Edwards takes on the role of senior vice president for LLUMC with humility and enthusiasm]]> Larry Becker Lyndon C. Edwards, MBA, MHS, has accepted the position senior vice president / administrator of Loma Linda University Medical Center adult services. He will be responsible for the day-to-day operations for the adult Medical Center in addition to his current responsibilities. He began his new duties December 12, 2015.

Edwards has been serving in administrative positions at Loma Linda University Health since January 2012, when he became administrator of our East Campus and Loma Linda University Surgical Hospital facilities.

In January 2015, his portfolio expanded as he took on the administrative roles for Behavioral Medicine Center, Highland Springs Medical Plaza, and Medical Center support services including food service, environmental and linen service, engineering service, patient dispatch, and hospitality and volunteer services. 

Prior to joining Loma Linda University Health, Edwards worked for the University of Florida Health System (UFHEALTH) for 15 years. During that time he served in a variety of administrative leadership roles at Shands at the University of Florida, Shands Psychiatric Hospital, and Shands Rehabilitative Hospital. Edwards holds MBA and MHS degrees from the University of Florida. 

“I’m humbled and honored to have the opportunity to continue my service at Loma Linda University Health in this new role. God has richly blessed me during my time here to work with an extraordinary team of leaders, physicians, and staff who embrace our mission of continuing the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ,” Edwards says. “I look forward to continuing that work with our Medical Center team.”

]]>
Wed, 20 Jan 2016 16:51:10 -0800
4264:25025 <![CDATA[Trevor Wright named chief operating officer for LLUMC]]> Larry Becker Trevor Wright, MHA, was recently named chief operating officer of Loma Linda University Medical Center (LLUMC). As COO, he has responsibility for operational oversight of LLUMC’s six hospital campuses. He began his position December 14, 2015.

Wright previously served as senior vice president / administrator for the University Hospital of LLUMC since March 2015. Prior to joining the Loma Linda University Health team he served for four years as senior vice president and chief operating officer of Shawnee Mission Health in Kansas City.

Wright has over 20 years of hospital operational experience and was also a consultant with The Studer Group. His previous health care administrative positions include service at Adventist Health System, Providence Health and Services, and Adventist Health.

An active member of the American College of Healthcare Executives, Wright brings significant expertise in fiscal leadership, strategic planning, business development and health care operations to his new role as COO. 

“I am deeply honored to be asked to serve Loma Linda University Health in this role and look forward to continuing to work with our faculty, physician and hospital leadership teams in support of the pursuit of excellence and fulfilling our teaching and healing mission.”

]]>
Thu, 21 Jan 2016 08:22:02 -0800
4264:24944 <![CDATA[Unique collection on temporary display]]> Contributed report  

Russel J. Thomsen, MD, began collecting intrauterine devices (IUDs) after testifying to a Senate committee investigating the safety of the devices in 1974. The committee was chaired by Senator Ted Kennedy, and Thomsen was a young OBGYN serving in the Army, based in Louisiana.
Thomsen, who has donated his extensive IUD collection to the School of Medicine, has made a small portion available in the administrative offices of the department of Ob/Gyn in Coleman Pavilion (first floor) until Jan. 20. 
]]>
Thu, 14 Jan 2016 10:08:46 -0800
4264:24942 <![CDATA[Ramp and lane closures through Friday]]> Contributed report San Bernardino Associated Governments and its partner agencies have designed major improvements to the Interstate 10 (I-10) and Tippecanoe Ave. interchange.

The project traverses the cities of Loma Linda and San Bernardino. The magnitude and complexity of the project warrants that it be completed in two phases. Phase I construction was completed in 2014. Phase II began construction in Feb., 2015.

The project was initiated to improve access to key destinations including Loma Linda University Medical Center and local businesses, relieve traffic congestion and reduce impact to local property owners and residents.

Now through Friday, Jan. 15, there will be intermittent full street closures from 10:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. at the following locations:

  • Anderson Street / Tippecanoe Avenue from Interstate 10 (I-10) Westbound, on- and off-ramps to Redlands Blvd.
  • Interstate 10 (I-10) Eastbound off-ramp at Tippecanoe Ave.
  • Interstate 10 (I-10) Westbound on-ramp at Tippecanoe Ave.

In addition, through Friday, Jan. 15, the following street closures will occur due to ongoing grading and street work:

  • Left turn lane closure, Interstate 10 (I-10) westbound off-ramp at Tippecanoe Ave.
  • Alternating lane closures, Westbound and eastbound outside lanes on Redlands Blvd.

Due to unforeseen issues and inclement weather, these dates and times are subject to change. Motorists and pedestrians should use caution while traveling through work zones near barricades and equipment.

Motorists should adhere to all posted signage in construction zones and remember to “slow for the cone zone.”

]]>
Thu, 14 Jan 2016 09:24:18 -0800
4264:24933 <![CDATA[Prayer note photo contest winners announced]]> Nancy Yuen and Courtney Haas For the past 13 years, the department of employee spiritual care at Loma Linda University Health has created an annual set of prayer notes to be used in patient care.

Each prayer note card, similar to a postcard, has a beautiful nature photo printed on one side and an encouraging verse of scripture printed on the back. The photos promote feelings such as peace, strength, hope or joy. There is also a note that says, “I prayed for you today and asked God to bless you.”

Forty-three photographers submitted 261 photos to the 2015 contest.

Congratulations to the photo contest winners. They are: 

  • First place: James Ponder, Aspens, Ouray, Colorado
  • Second place: Satoshi Sakamoto
  • Third place: Michael Woodruff

The honorable mention winners are (in alphabetical order):

Carlene Drake, Terry Hansen (three images), Danny Wongworawat (two images) and Michael Woodruff (three images).

The winning photos, as well as photos from the past six years, may be viewed here.

 

]]>
Thu, 14 Jan 2016 08:11:30 -0800
4264:24955 <![CDATA[Emergency department employee attends State of the Union address in Washington, D.C.]]> Briana Pastorino Loma Linda University Medical Center’s James Parnell, patient care director for the emergency department, was one of four individuals from San Bernardino County who attended President Obama’s final State of the Union address, Tuesday, Jan. 13 in Washington, D.C.

Invited by Representative Pete Aguilar, Parnell represented Loma Linda University Medical Center for its role in providing trauma care to five victims of the shooting that took place December 2 at Inland Regional Center.  

“I feel very honored to have been chosen to represent Loma Linda University Medical Center,” Parnell said prior to his departure to the East Coast. He also said he was looking forward to attending such a historic event as President Obama's final State of the Union address.

While the president did not specifically mention the terrorist attack in San Bernardino, he did reference the gun violence epidemic that has tormented communities across the nation, as well as fighting terrorism as a whole.

Parnell said he appreciates how the president approached many issues with an attitude of optimism and moving forward.

Additionally, Parnell said, “I liked that he continued to express support of innovation in technology and health care." 

Other individuals in attendance from San Bernardino County were San Bernardino County Sheriff John McMahon, San Bernadino Police Chief Jarrod Burguan, San Bernadino Police dispatch supervisor Annie Teal, and Trenna Meins, wife of victim Damian Meins of Riverside, one of the 14 fatalities of the shooting. Meins’ two children also attended.

On the day of the shooting, Parnell was responsible for initializing the triage area outside the emergency department. A former Army reserve medic, Parnell relied on his FEMA training in mass casualty incidents in his response preparing the emergency department to serve an influx of up to 50 patients.

Parnell was a guest of Representative Pete Aguilar. In a press release issued from his office after the President’s speech, Rep. Aguilar said: “The threats we face from gun violence have long been a crisis in San Bernardino, before the terrorist attack at the Inland Regional Center, and will continue to be until we take meaningful and common sense steps to make our neighborhoods safer. Our world is a dangerous place – as the president reminded us of the precarious position we find ourselves in as we continue to combat terrorism here and abroad.”

]]>
Thu, 14 Jan 2016 12:22:00 -0800
4264:24951 <![CDATA[Be inspired! Vespers to highlight upcoming Pathway to Health]]> Contributed report An inspirational vespers program will be held Saturday, Jan. 16, at 4:30 p.m. at Loma Linda University Church. The vespers will highlight plans for Pathway to Health Los Angeles Mega Clinic, which will take place April 27 to 29. It will be the largest Seventh-day Adventist-sponsored free clinic in U.S. history.

Ten thousand people are expected to receive care during the fair’s two-and-a-half days. With approximately 45,000 homeless people living in Los Angeles County, the homeless will be a primary focus of the free clinic, which will provide dentistry, vision care and surgery. According to Lela Lewis, president of Your Best Pathway to Health, 3,000 volunteers are needed to staff the event. 

Best Pathway to Health, a service to ASI, is a supporting ministry of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

]]>
Thu, 14 Jan 2016 10:44:20 -0800
4264:24774 <![CDATA[Join the Unstuck Program and celebrate your best year yet!]]> Contributed report Are you looking for a life change but don't know how to get started? Have you tried to make changes but feel like you're stuck in the same place? The new year is a popular time to focus on oneself and make healthy changes. 

Let us help! The Unstuck Program is a cognitive educational group for people struggling to make healthy changes. The program will help you set goals, make a plan and stay motivated.

Plan now to make 2016 your best year ever! To register and receive additional information, call the Living Whole Wellness Program at ext. 14007. 

The eight-week program starts Thursday, Feb. 4, 2016 at 5:30 p.m. Register by Friday, Jan. 29, 2016. Space is limited.

Classes will take place at LLUAHSC Services 101 Building, 101 E. Redlands Blvd., San Bernardino, CA 92408.

For more information:

http://myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole/unstuck/

Note: The Unstuck Program is open to Loma Linda University Health employees and covered spouses; the program is free when attendance requirements are met.

]]>
Wed, 06 Jan 2016 17:28:04 -0800
4264:24791 <![CDATA[In Memoriam -- Dr. Lawrence Longo]]> Contributed report It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of Dr. Lawrence Longo early Tuesday morning, Jan. 5.  

Dr. Longo was a gentle giant who helped establish a culture of research on this campus. More information on his remarkable life will be shared soon. 

During a recent taping of Loma Linda Health's "Live It" health program, Dr. Longo spoke about his life and his legacy.

You may watch a few minutes of Dr. Longo reflecting on his life of service at Loma Linda here

To honor Dr. Longo's memory, flags on the Loma Linda University Health campus will remain flown at half-staff throughout the week.

]]>
Thu, 07 Jan 2016 12:03:59 -0800
4264:24788 <![CDATA[Loma Linda's new online health show launched New Year's Day]]> Briana Pastorino

Loma Linda University Health’s online health show, “LIVE IT,” made its debut on YouTube on Jan. 1, just in time for New Year’s resolutions.

From Loma Linda, the place where people live the longest in the nation, the health series unveils the secrets of living a long and healthy life. Based on Loma Linda University Health research and encouraging others to LIVE IT, each episode features simple tips to live healthier, longer.

“No other online health show focuses on longevity,” said Cosmin Cosma, director of advancement films. “Simply put, Loma Linda University Health is a leading organization on wellness and prevention that holds the treasured research findings on this popular subject. Through an easy-to-understand format with animations, the show inspires viewers to LIVE IT.”

The inaugural season of the show contains 14 episodes, each ranging from two to three minutes in length. The show provides quick, fun-to-watch videos on hot health topics and research from Loma Linda University Health.

Each episode is presented by a physician and a journalist. It also includes sound bites from the main researcher on each topic as well as animation to visually exemplify the subject matter in an entertaining way. The show educates viewers on simple ways to incorporate the health tips into their own life.

The first episode highlights research on nuts, which ultimately reversed the health advice from the American Heart Association. Loma Linda University Health researchers discovered that eating a handful of nuts a day lowers cholesterol by 10 percent and cuts  the risk of a heart attack in half. The second episode will premiere on Jan. 8 and subsequent episodes will be released every Friday through April 1.

For more information on “LIVE IT,” the online health show, visit the show’s website, liveitlomalinda.org.

]]>
Thu, 07 Jan 2016 11:26:19 -0800
4264:24792 <![CDATA[Notes from the President -- For the New Year]]> Dr. Richard Hart   January 2016

Let me start with a disclaimer. Richard Hart It is always risky to put forward lofty goals for an institution, as you provide fodder for the critics who like to point out your shortcomings. Having said that, I think it is critically important for both individuals and institutions to own their desires for the future - where they want to go. Institutions can't do that collectively unless they are willing to publicly state those aspirations. It is the stuff on which reputations hang. So here they are for the New Year: Three big ones for Loma Linda.

Moral Beacon

In today's world, there are more and more questions about motives, hidden strategies, and basically what is the right thing to do in various circumstances. It may have to do with business decisions, personnel issues, investment opportunities, partnerships, or a myriad of other questions that confront each of us. It seems that many times these questions are answered in the context of what's in it for us, who will know, and does it make any difference? The foundational issue of right and wrong is often left out of the discussion. It seems we have entered a time where moral absolutes are no longer valued or considered important.

LighthouseI would like to claim a moral high ground for Loma Linda. To publicly state that we try our best to make decisions for the right reasons, no matter the political cost. We pray for wisdom to discern these paths, which are not always easy to determine.

The words I often hear at the end of difficult discussions are, “This is the right thing to do” and that sentiment carries the day. Our decisions get critiqued and certainly criticized. Often we cannot even share all the reasons why a decision went a certain way. Perceptions vary on every issue. But we are committed to using our core values to set the parameters for all decisions. Whether the world is watching or not, we want to be comfortable with what we have done.

Refusing to believe that our environment inoculates us from the potential for going astray we are warned by this thought from C.S. Lewis in his book Screwtape Letters,

“The greatest evil is not now done in those sordid ‘dens of crime’ that Dickens loved to paint. It is not done even in concentration camps and labour camps. In those we see its final result. But it is conceived and ordered (moved, seconded, carried, and minuted) in clean, carpeted, warmed and well-lighted offices, by quiet men with white collars and cut fingernails and smooth-shaven cheeks who do not need to raise their voices.”

Kind of sobering for those of us in those offices!

We want to share this sense of moral commitment with our graduates as well. As they study and observe on our campus, what have they learned? What impact have we had on their decision making for the rest of their lives? We are not so naïve as to think we can permanently imprint a set of values on every mind, but we do hope we have established a standard, a moral compass, that they can refer to in their personal lives and decisions. Because they – you – are the ones who really establish and maintain Loma Linda's reputation. It sits on the shoulders of our 45,000 alumni who carry out their daily duties in so many places and activities. We each face our own set of issues and critical decisions to make. My hope is that we may be collectively known as a group of people who “stand for the right, though the heavens fall.”

Wholeness Mentor

There is plenty of talk today about wellness, the commitment to live healthy and productive lives. Many of these principles are ones that Loma Linda has championed for decades and we are pleased the world is catching on and adopting them. But I believe that Loma Linda is really about wholeness, which is more than just wellness. While this new term is being discussed and adopted by some, I am not sure most have its full understanding yet.

Loma Linda uses it to apply both to how we care for patients – whole person care – as well as how we live our personal lives. It reaches both internally and externally, both vertically and horizontally. Our committee on campus has come up with a new definition for wholeness that I like: “Loved by God, Growing in Health, Living with Purpose in Community.” Not bad for a succinct definition of what life is all about. This portrays us all as children of a personal God who is interested and invested in our lives. It includes our own growth throughout our lives, and shows that ultimately this is demonstrated by connecting with our communities. The old phrase of “physical, mental, social and spiritual” is enveloped in this understanding.

Now - how well do we do this, both personally and institutionally? I don't want to reveal the hours some of us work, a measure we often apply. But I would suggest that even long hours done for the right reasons and with a common purpose is not as stressful as self-service. There is a certain satisfaction and calmness that comes with a collective commitment to doing good.

Loma Linda University HealthAt Loma Linda, this is usually done in a cosmic sense, a sense that it is God's will, His biddings, that we are working towards. That clearly changes the equation, adding a collective sense of camaraderie, of doing something beyond ourselves, something bigger than any of us. When all is said and done, it gives a sense of relief that the results are now in His hands. We have done our best and the rest is God's. God doesn't call us to success, He calls us to commitment – the outcome is up to Him.

Is this carried on by our alumni and friends? Well, the Adventist Health Studies certainly suggest that both longevity and productivity are more than just a vegetarian diet and avoiding harmful substances. They have tried to identify and measure other variables – church attendance, social connections, etc. and they all seem to contribute something.

I am convinced it is the balance of it all, the sense that I am a child of God, living with purpose and direction in my life, that soothes the vessels, calms the heart, and rejuvenates the muscles and organs. May we learn more effectively how to share that message with others so they may enjoy what we have in abundance. May we not lose our appreciation for this special gift that keeps on giving.

Spiritual Exemplar

Now for the toughest one of all, spirituality. We often separate spirituality from religion, as if they are distinct from each other. Yet they are inextricably linked, as it is very difficult for any of us to divorce ourselves entirely from the learnings of our youth. Though spirituality builds on religion, it somehow seems to be more than any denominational set of beliefs. It strikes at the very soul of man, the fundamental understanding of who we are in a cosmic sense.

Dove stained glassThe obvious question is, can an institution develop, encourage, even instill spirituality where it may not naturally exist? Or, if we attempt to do so, have we finally crossed a line that no university should follow, too invasive to be entrusted to a group of mere mortals? I don't know the answer to that for sure, but I do believe that encouraging a deep sense of spirituality is such a fundamental part of a healthy and successful life that we cannot ignore the question.

Paul Krauss, a retired executive from a major US company and former proton patient said it well in thanking Lynn Martell, one of our senior leaders, for hosting hundreds of patients for Christmas dinner at their home over the past 16 years.

“Lynn, in this world few things are unique, but Christmas at the Martell's is not only unique but an iconic statement of Loma Linda / Adventist beliefs and caring. If only the global world would join your journey. We have never discussed religion, but I put everything to the Jesus test. Would Jesus spend His time debating transubstantiation, predestination, antinomian and Arminian thought, or would He be out helping the lepers and the poor? I think I know the answer. Of course many religious communities add value to their communicants, both spiritual and social, but I believe you all, whatever your theology, conspicuously walk the talk. That is the bottom line. Happy New Year. PK”

Unfortunately, we are now living in a world where the major religions seem to be clashing once again. While many preach peace, religion is being used to polarize people from all sides. As a “faith-based” university, Loma Linda would rightfully be expected to have an opinion, a position on such issues.

While we are avowedly Christian, Loma Linda is a Seventh-day Adventist institution. Seventh-day Adventists have a 123 year heritage of vigorously defending religious freedom, no matter one's belief. This history allows Loma Linda to be a safe-haven, a Switzerland for those with a diversity of beliefs, while at the same time proclaiming and living our own. People from the world's religions come to us feeling a sense of security and acceptance that should make us all proud.

This is what God has called His people to represent to the world throughout the ages - the faith of those who completely follow the true God. It represents a level of spirituality few attain or towards which few aspire. But it surely must be what Enoch and Moses and others experienced when “they walked with God.” Is this even possible today? Can it be modeled and encouraged?

These are tough questions, and I certainly don't want to claim expertise in this area. We struggle like all others, albeit with a certain sense of purpose and commitment to this deep spirituality. While this can be pursued privately, on one's own, I suspect it is best developed in communion with others. It certainly transcends denominationalism, as important as that may be. I am sure it requires a constant yearning, a recognition and desire for something better. May this New Year give us all a measured sense of this kind of spirituality.

A Moral Beacon, a Wholeness Mentor, and a Spiritual Exemplar. Tall orders for any organization or person. Yet I hope Loma Linda will stay committed to do what it can to achieve these lofty goals. The world expects this from us, and we need to rise to the challenge. Please pray for us on this journey.

Sincerely yours,

Dr. Hart signature

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

Office of the President, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350

Copyright © 2016 by Loma Linda University

]]>
Thu, 07 Jan 2016 13:09:31 -0800
4264:24720 <![CDATA[Christmas Channel launches]]> The department of cable TV and media services at Loma Linda University Health is pleased to present the Christmas Channel, featuring favorite Christmas songs performed by various churches and groups.

Throughout the holiday season, the Christmas Channel will replace the Relaxation Channel on channel 30, and it is viewable in all patient, waiting, staff and student areas connected to the in-house TV system. 

For more information, please contact cable TV and media services at ext. 44478.

]]>
Thu, 17 Dec 2015 12:56:39 -0800
4264:24704 <![CDATA[Brazil bound]]> Courtney Haas Today is the last day of classes for many students at Loma Linda University, and as everyone goes their separate ways, it’s safe to say that Christmas cheer, holiday traditions and gift giving are on nearly everyone’s minds. But as the new year begins, why not think about how you can give to an even broader community? Why not go on a mission trip? 

Loma Linda University Health’s Students for International Mission Service (SIMS) is excited to be coordinating yet another trip to the beautiful country of Brazil, March 18-27.

As a Loma Linda University Health student, staff or faculty member, you are eligible to sign up for this amazing opportunity. This trip will allow you to experience service in the mission field while working with a partnering non-profit organization called Social Action Volunteers of the Amazon. Trip participants will help hold health fairs and health education sessions as well as lead vacation Bible school and worship services in local villages, and so much more!

The sign-up deadline is Tuesday, January 5, 2016, so sign up as soon as possible. Click here to learn more about the trip location and pricing.

 

]]>
Thu, 17 Dec 2015 11:08:34 -0800
4264:24706 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- Help with the holiday blues]]> Courtney Haas Peace, love and joy are common themes in our culture during December as we find ourselves surrounded by family, food and holiday fun. But the truth is that for many, the holidays are a time of stress and uncertainty. 

Loma Linda University Health’s health library features an article on this very topic called Help for the Holiday Blues. With causes that can include everything from shopping stress, debt, missed loved ones, family conflict and personal pressures, the holiday blues can impact anyone. 

While stressors will continue to be a part of everyday life, here are a few tips to help you stay a little less blue this holiday season.

• Talk to a close friend. Sharing concerns helps to take the pressure away.

• Avoid alcohol consumption, as it will only exacerbate the blues.

• Try to maintain a daily routine. Consistency helps to let you know that you are in control.

• Try to budget your holidays, reasonably.

• When planning your holidays and new year, set realistic goals.

• Avoid situations that will cause pressure and stress. You are allowed to say no.

• Find time for you. Peace and solitude can be beneficial when you can just turn off the business of the world.  

• Since you have already taken the initiative to budget this Christmas, try to find free, fun holiday activities.

• Think outside the box and find your own unique way to celebrate the holidays. Don’t feel confined to set traditions. These can lead to stress and expense. Just have fun with it.

The holiday blues are common, but if you feel that you are especially down this year – for example, your sleep or appetite are affected – please contact your health care provider. The Loma Linda University Behavioral Health Institute may be an option.

]]>
Thu, 17 Dec 2015 11:11:36 -0800
4264:24710 <![CDATA[News of the Week goes on holiday]]> Heather Reifsnyder News of the Week, an e-newsletter that has served Loma Linda University Heath since January 2013, will take one of its rare holiday breaks for the next two weeks in recognition of Christmas and New Year’s.

Expect the next issue in your inbox Jan. 7.

In the meantime, the office of public relations at Loma Linda University wishes its readers a merry and meaningful holiday season, remembering that with God, we can be made new again: “old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.” (2 Corinthians 5:17)

]]>
Thu, 17 Dec 2015 12:08:40 -0800
4264:24712 <![CDATA[Catch 'A Certain Kind of Light']]> Heather Reifsnyder “A Certain Kind of Light” is an award-winning documentary about the daring creation of whole person care at Loma Linda University Health. View the trailer below.

Previously screened at film festivals nationally and internationally, the 40-minute film will have its local premiere Jan. 8 from 6–8 p.m. at Loma Linda University Church. The screening is free and open to the public.

Told through the life of a beloved campus figure, Wil Alexander, PhD, and incorporating the history of whole person care at Loma Linda University Health, this is a documentary about a man who dared to bring the power of story into the patient experience. Alexander founded the Center for Spiritual Life and Wholeness at Loma Linda University Health in 1996, and he previously introduced the concept of whole person care to the campus in 1973.

His legacy inspires a new generation of health care providers and highlights the importance of story in every personal encounter.

The campus premiere of “A Certain Kind of Light” will include the full film, followed by a panel discussion on the power of story to transform lives. Panel members will include the filmmaker, producers and executive producers, as well as experts in whole person care. 

The film is a collaborative project between the Center for Spiritual Life and Wholeness, the office of public affairs and the Wholeness Institute at Loma Linda University Health.

A Certain Kind of Light” has been shown at film festivals in several locations, including Rome, Los Angeles and London. It has received multiple awards, including several for “Best Short Documentary.”

Register for the event at www.llu.edu/wholeness/premiere. For more information, contact Kris Lozano at (909) 558-7786 or KLozano@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 17 Dec 2015 12:15:27 -0800
4264:24716 <![CDATA[President Hart to speak at World Peace Conference]]> Heather Reifsnyder The 2016 Rotary World Peace Conference will take place in the city of Ontario on Jan. 15 and 16, bringing together experts in solutions to major issues related to personal lives, homes, schools, businesses and communities around the globe.

President Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, of Loma Linda University Health is one of the featured speakers.

Hart will present during the conference’s track on international trade and economic development, specifically on the topic of “Community Resiliency through Health Evaluation — the San Manuel Gateway College Project.”

His talk is scheduled for Friday, Jan. 15, and Arwyn Wild, MA, executive director of the San Manuel Gateway College, will join him.

The San Manuel Gateway College is a major new initiative of Loma Linda University Health to bring better health, education and economic prosperity to the city of San Bernardino. Learn more at www.lomalindauniversityhealth.org/sanbernardino.

Other notable speakers for the conference include Peace Corps Director Carrie Hessler-Radelet, actress Sharon Stone, former U.S. Ambassador to Bangladesh Mary Ann Peters and Judge Daniel Nsereko, who serves on the Special Tribunal for Lebanon, Appeals Chamber, and is a Seventh-day Adventist. (Loma Linda University Health is owned by the Adventist Church.)

For information about attending the World Peace Conference, go to www.peaceconference2016.org.

]]>
Thu, 17 Dec 2015 12:23:52 -0800
4264:24705 <![CDATA[Holiday hours]]> Courtney Haas Get ready to shut down your computers and head home, as campus-wide office closures go into effect for the holiday season.

Loma Linda University Health’s holiday hours are as follows:

• Wednesday, December 23 – Normal business hours, open until 5 p.m.

• Thursday, December 24 – Closed

• Friday, December 25 – Closed

• Wednesday, December 30 – Normal business hours, open until 5 p.m.

• Thursday, December 31 – Closed

• Friday, January 1 – Closed

Due to the Christmas and New Year’s holidays, off-cycle checks will not be processed on the following days: 

• Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, December 22, 24 and 25

• Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, December 29, 31 and January 1

For more information on these dates please contact the payroll department at 909-651-4004 or payroll@llu.edu.

 During these closures the shuttle service and fleet services will not be running on:

• December 24, 25 and 31, 2015, and January 1, 2016

 

]]>
Thu, 17 Dec 2015 11:09:50 -0800
4264:24714 <![CDATA[Terry Hansen retires]]> Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Medical Center’s chief operating officer, Terry Hansen, MPH, is retiring. His last day of work was Dec. 11.

“I’ve been privileged to be a part of an excellent leadership team,” he says. “I’m leaving knowing the Medical Center is in great hands.” Hansen adds that working with Kerry Heinrich, JD, CEO and friend, has been an honor. 

Heinrich, in turn, points out the key accomplishments made by Hansen, including recruiting a group of talented individuals to the Medical Center leadership team and implementing Project NOWW, which is an initiative seeing success in improving the financial bottom line.

“Terry Hansen is a true believer in the mission of Loma Linda University Health,” Heinrich says. “With his extensive experience and expertise, he has served Loma Linda University Medical Center well. We will miss him and wish him the best in retirement.”

Retiring is bittersweet, Hansen says. “I love Loma Linda. If I were five years younger, I’d be happy to stay longer.” 

He joined the Medical Center leadership team in September 2014, coming out of retirement at the request of Heinrich. Now, with his requested accomplishments completed, he will return to his Northern California home to again enjoy retirement with his wife.

This has been the second time Hansen has served as COO of LLU Medical Center, previously having held this role from 1995 to 2000. In total, he has garnered more than 40 years of health care leadership experience during his career. Other organizations he has helped lead include St. Helena Hospital, Hospital Governance, Inc. and Paradise Valley Hospital.

Hansen is also an alumnus of Loma Linda University, where he graduated with a master’s degree in public health. 

Colleagues held a retirement party for Hansen Dec. 3. A framed sign placed on the wall said, “Retirement is not the end of the road. It is the beginning of the open highway.”

Loma Linda University Health wishes Hansen great traveling. 

]]>
Thu, 17 Dec 2015 12:19:48 -0800
4264:24632 <![CDATA[Accreditation body to visit School of Medicine]]> The Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME) is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as the reliable authority for the accreditation of medical education programs leading to the MD degree.

Representatives of LCME will visit the School of Medicine January 10-13. The visiting team will meet with faculty, medical students and resident physicians. The team will review the medical program around five areas: institutional setting and resources, educational program, medical students, faculty and educational resources. The LCME standards have recently undergone an extensive revision, and LLU School of Medicine will be one of the first schools to be reviewed under the new standards. 

The school’s preparation includes a 35-page summary “self-study” to evaluate the medical program as well as an extensive database that includes multiple tables of data and answers to specific questions. A committee of medical students created an independent student survey that has been administered to all medical classes. 

The focus of LCME reviewing teams in recent years includes curriculum management, fair and timely assessment, variety of measures of student achievement, preparation of resident and faculty instructors, diversity programs and debt management programs.

“We are grateful to the many faculty and students who have helped us prepare for the LCME site visit,” says Tamara Thomas, MD, vice dean for academic affairs. “We have many positive attributes in the School of Medicine and will look at this visit as an opportunity to highlight them and demonstrate our excellent medical program to the LCME.”

]]>
Thu, 10 Dec 2015 12:18:50 -0800
4264:24618 <![CDATA[Road closures in effect next week]]> Courtney Haas Upcoming road closures are still in effect for the interchange improvement of Interstate 10 and Anderson/Tippecanoe. Expect delays and road closures next week as phase II of the project progresses. 

Please view the details below for road closure information on Dec. 13-18. 

]]>
Thu, 10 Dec 2015 09:47:49 -0800
4264:24620 <![CDATA[Tomorrow: office closure]]> Courtney Haas The holiday season is upon us and with it comes Christmas music, baked goods, gift shopping, and of course, office parties.

On Friday, Dec. 11, the department of risk management will be closing at 11:45 a.m. for its Christmas celebration. Regular office hours will resume Monday, Dec. 14. 

Regular hours:

Monday – Thursday: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Friday: 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. 

]]>
Thu, 10 Dec 2015 10:02:23 -0800
4264:24621 <![CDATA[President's statement on shooting]]> Dr. Richard Hart   December 2015
Special edition
Statement about San Bernardino shooting

Though sense can never be made of last week’s mass shooting, we are still learning the reasons behind the attack — whether this was part personal vendetta, self-radicalization or a premeditated terrorist attack. What were the linkages and influence? Were others involved?

But from what we now know, it looks like yet another senseless tragedy guided by a twisted, bankrupt ideology masquerading as religious moralism.

The attack left 14 dead and 21 injured in San Bernardino, next door, our neighbor, a city just starting on the long road back from a decade of struggles.

This was so close that we heard the sirens and gunshots, received the wounded and are grieving with the families. Many of the victims, and perhaps even the perpetrators, walked our campus and enjoyed our fellowship. We will struggle for years to understand what can go so wrong in life to compel a couple to leave their 6-month-old daughter and carry out such carnage.

We do know that law enforcement acted bravely and quickly, combining forces from neighboring cities, counties and the FBI. The first responders walked into the face of unknown dangers. Communications worked, efforts were coordinated and justice was swift.

We also know our emergency department did what they are trained to do and do so well. They were ready for mass casualties and professionally cared for those they received. And our surgical teams performed with skill and sensitivity, followed by our staff on the wards adding their care and compassion. One of our own remains in the hospital as one of the victims.

After the immediate reaction of disbelief and concern, the follow-up questions begin. How did this happen? Could it have been predicted? Prevented? Is it over? What are the future risks? These are all questions that deserve, even demand answers. But it is also important that we guard against rumors, against broad recriminations and accusations. This is not a country or religion gone bad, but apparently a misguided attempt at retribution. Because these two had Pakistani Muslim roots does not implicate either their country or Islam, any more than other mass killers implicate our own heritage.

Jesus calls us to love one another as He loves us. In times of crises — crises that divide us about how to respond, crises that make a temptation of hating those who are different — we must remember His words: “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” (John 13:35)

At Loma Linda University Health, we deeply value our multi-faith campus, providing a quality study and work environment for individuals from many different countries and religious persuasions. They stand with us in abhorring this type of attack, and they are a vital part of our faith-based culture.

The frequency of these events does raise serious questions about which way this country, this world, is heading. It seems evil is in the hearts of some men and women, and I wonder whether gun control, background screening, communication monitoring, no-fly lists or any other techniques can really slow down this trend. It seems to grow faster than counterforces can muster their defenses. It can easily leave those of us who believe in social commitments and service engagement with second thoughts. Is it worth it? Can we really make a difference?

I argue yes. At its heart, Loma Linda University Health is a place where we strive to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ. “Therefore, since it is by God’s mercy that we are engaged in this ministry, we do not lose heart.” (2 Corinthians 4:1)

Loma Linda prepares for tragic events with routine drills and extensive planning. Whether it be an “active shooter,” chemical spill, explosion, multi-vehicle accident on the freeway or the “big one” (earthquake), we do our best to have systems in place and to be ready.

But there is a limit to what can be anticipated. We also recognize that our unique campus, with its own ideology, may represent a potential target itself. So we prepare and wait, not out of fear, but from a realistic expectation of the times in which we live.

We invite your prayers and support for all those impacted by this latest tragedy. Our hearts grieve with those who have lost loved ones. We believe we are here, in this very place, for times such as these, and we will carry out our duties with confidence and commitment. Our new San Bernardino campus is an example of our belief that we need to engage and be an active part of social healing.

Sincerely,

 

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

 

PS: Even as this message was being prepared (Dec. 8), another bomb threat was called into Loma Linda, in addition to the false one we received last week. We have searched all the buildings and received the all clear. It is yet another example of the times in which we live. 

]]>
Thu, 10 Dec 2015 11:04:25 -0800
4264:24624 <![CDATA[Emergency notification preferences]]> Heather Reifsnyder The past eight days have brought quite the turn of critical events to Loma Linda University Health. Three times, the campus emergency alert system, Send Word Now, has been activated — once to notify employees and students of the active shooter in San Bernardino and twice to put the campus on alert of bomb threats, both of which turned out to be false after extensive searches were conducted.

While, thankfully, no harm came to employees or students, it is important that all individuals on campus receive emergency notifications according to the best ways to reach them. 

The notifications can be delivered via email (work and personal addresses), landline phones and cell phones (via text, call, or both).

Update your preferences by logging in to MyLLU, clicking “contacts” from the top menu and then selecting “edit contacts.” Add to the ways you’d like to be reached and be sure to check the “emergency” box to receive Send Word Now alerts.

While Loma Linda University Health makes every effort to prevent harm from coming to campus, it is important to be prepared for the worst while working toward the best.

“Loma Linda prepares for tragic events with routine drills and extensive planning,” says Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president. 

“Whether it be an active shooter, chemical spill, explosion, multi-vehicle accident on the freeway or the ‘big one’ (earthquake), we do our best to have systems in place and to be ready.”

]]>
Thu, 10 Dec 2015 12:06:57 -0800
4264:24626 <![CDATA[Shuttle tracking now available]]> A new service allows employees and students at Loma Linda University Health to track the location of campus shuttles from a computer. This function is available on the VIP intranet transportation page. This is a direct link from on-campus computers. 

Log in with the following information to see what shuttles are available. Shuttle locations are updated every two minutes via satellite.

Account ID: 307517

Username: 1111

Password: 1234

For more information, please call the transportation department at 909-651-3020 or ext. 53020.

]]>
Thu, 10 Dec 2015 12:08:57 -0800
4264:24628 <![CDATA[Charity Navigator gives LLU coveted 4-star rating]]> Heather Reifsnyder Charity Navigator — America’s premier charity evaluator — has given Loma Linda University its second consecutive four-star rating. Four stars means the highest ranking possible, indicating that LLU exceeds industry standards and outperforms most charities in its sector. 

The president and CEO of Charity Navigator, Michael Thatcher, offered his kudos to Loma Linda University.

“I wish to congratulate Loma Linda University on achieving our coveted four-star rating for sound fiscal management and commitment to accountability and transparency,” he said in a letter to Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of LLU.

The rankings by Charity Navigator inform donors which charities are worthy of supporting due to efficient, ethical and open operations.

Loma Linda University joins the mere 21 percent of charities that have received at least two consecutive four-star evaluations from Charity Navigator. Thatcher explained, “This exceptional designation from Charity Navigator differentiates Loma Linda University from its peers and demonstrates to the public it is worthy of their trust.”

For the trust and generosity of its donors, Loma Linda University is deeply grateful, according to Rachelle Bussell, senior vice president for advancement.

“And we are pleased that Charity Navigator affirms our donors’ decision to invest in Loma Linda University as it trains tomorrow’s health care professionals with our signature viewpoint of whole person care,” Bussell said.

View Charity Navigator’s evaluation of Loma Linda University by clicking here

]]>
Thu, 10 Dec 2015 12:11:15 -0800
4264:24437 <![CDATA[Things get hairy during cancer fundraiser]]> Briana Pastorino With the participation of over 150 men and women from Loma Linda University Health and the San Bernardino Police Department (SBPD), more than $12,000 was raised for Loma Linda University Cancer Center during the month of November, or “No Shave Movember,” the month-long initiative where participants forgo shaving in an effort to raise awareness about cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

A celebratory event was held Nov. 30 in conclusion of Movember at Loma Linda University Health. Loma Linda University Medical Center CEO Kerry Heinrich, JD, expressed his appreciation to all those who participated.

“We cannot thank members of law enforcement enough for their dedication to serving this community,” Heinrich said. “The commitment of the San Bernardino Police Department through this first-ever partnership is very special to us.”

The partnership was initiated between the police department and Loma Linda University Health when several of SBPD employees expressed an interest in participating in Movember. 

“It was important that our participation in a nationwide movement have meaning and purpose,” said Jarrod Burguan, chief of police.Loma Linda was an obvious partner as the premier medical center in the region.” 

A four-person panel judged individuals who let their beards and legs go unshaven during the month of November, and winners were recognized with a plaque for their participation. The judges were Vicky Ramirez, breast cancer survivor; LLU Cancer Center director Mark Reeves, MD; mayor of San Bernardino Carey Davis; and city of San Bernardino councilmember Benito J. Barrios.

Winners from Loma Linda University Health were:

• Terry Hansen, MPH, chief operating officer, Loma Linda University Medical Center

•  Trevor Wright, MHA, senior vice president, adult hospital services

• Kevin Lang, MBA, executive vice president, finance and administration/CFO

• Kerry Heinrich, JD, CEO, Loma Linda University Medical Center

• Lyndon Edwards, MBA, MHS, senior vice president, LLUMC East Campus, LLU Surgical Hospital and LLU Behavioral Medicine Center

Winners from the San Bernardino Police Department were:

• Hairiest legs — Sgt. Vicky Cervantes

• Best mustache — Det. Von Verbanic

• Ugliest Beard — Ofc. Clint Walton

• Whitest Beard — Capt. Paul Williams

•  Best Beard — Ofc. Robert Leonidas Retamoza

The event concluded with three local barbers on hand providing free shaves to those who wished to do away with their month-long growth of facial hair. Loma Linda University Health president Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, was the first to brave the shave. While he allowed his beard to grow through the month, it had been at least 15 years since he’d been clean-shaven. 

Watch the video below to see the good, the bad and the ugly beards that helped to raise money toward cancer research.

 

]]>
Thu, 03 Dec 2015 12:53:25 -0800
4264:24438 <![CDATA[The running of the Santas]]> Courtney Haas ’Tis the season to run, walk or roll toward a healthy tomorrow for our community’s children. On Sunday, Dec. 13, Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital is teaming up with PossAbilities for the first-ever Santa Fun Run.

Taking place at 8 a.m., the 5k costs $35 and comes with a few perks for signing up early. The first 500 participants to register will receive Santa suits to wear and set the mood for a fun holiday run. 

The 5K will benefit Loma Linda University Health’s PossAbilities outreach program and Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital.

Whether you choose to run, walk or roll, come out and enjoy the holiday spirit as this jolly race moves toward a healthier future.  

For more information or to volunteer, please email kphipps@llu.edu or click hereto register. 

]]>
Thu, 03 Dec 2015 12:56:59 -0800
4264:24449 <![CDATA[Road closures tonight and tomorrow night]]> Road closures due to the interchange improvement at Interstate 10 and Anderson/Tippecanoe will remain in effect the nights of Dec. 3 and 4.

Details are below. Plan routes accordingly. Safe driving to all!

 

]]>
Thu, 03 Dec 2015 13:21:30 -0800
4264:24464 <![CDATA[Notes from the President -- Rwanda]]> Dr. Richard Hart   December 2015
Rwanda
The time is now for an Adventist medical school

Jerry Daly, from our Global Health Institute at Loma Linda University Health, and I recently returned from a quick trip to Rwanda to look at starting a new medical school there. We were hosted by Hesron Byilingiro, president of the Rwanda Union of Seventh-day “RichardAdventists, and Ndahayo Claver, vice rector (VP) of academics at the Adventist university there. It will be the sixth Adventist medical school that LLU has assisted over the years.

First, Universidad de Montemorelos in northern Mexico, an hour and a half drive south of Monterrey, started a medical school some 40 years ago. Then came Universidad Adventista del Plata in the farmland of Argentina, which began its school of medicine around 20 years ago. Both of these schools are now mature and educating physicians. Then for many years, other countries were discouraged from starting new medical schools due to the costs and difficulty in finding quality faculty at both the basic science and clinical levels.

But recently the hold was lifted, and a number of countries are responding to what they perceive as constituent pressure and market opportunities. Babcock University, an hour out of Lagos, Nigeria, started its medical school first, about three years ago. Then Universidad Peruana Union in Nana, outside of Lima, Peru, began one two years ago. Finally, the Adventist University of the Philippines, in the hills outside of Manila, opened its school of medicine this past August.

Loma Linda University Health has assisted with each one of these, on accreditation visits, consultations and curricula review, and with teaching faculty assistance. They all have students on board and are working to produce quality professionals. Several other countries are also planning new medical schools.

There are two foundations from which medical schools usually start. Some come from existing universities that want to expand their academic offerings. Usually they have other health science programs already in place, such as nursing. The other option is a hospital that wants to start a school of medicine. These institutions understand the medical model and have the clinical faculty already on board, but they need to develop the academic structure.

Places without a hospital must search out appropriate clinical sites and recruit a faculty committed to education. They occasionally use a government hospital, where quality is often stretched by large patient volume. Motivating and reimbursing busy physicians to engage in time-consuming mentoring of students can also be difficult. Both Babcock University and Adventist University of the Philippines are faced with this challenge. Universidad Peruana Union is using the expanded Good Hope Clinic, a flourishing hospital in Miraflores, Lima, for most of its training.

Adventist University of Central Africa

And now the Adventist University of Central Africa (AUCA) in Rwanda has been approved to plan for a new medical school. This institution has quite a history, beginning with the recognition that the Adventist Church needed a French-speaking university to serve the many French-language countries throughout Africa. It was organized as Universite Adventiste d’Afrique Centrale in 1978, in Rwanda, at a place called Mudende. The university officially opened its doors in October 1984 and was chartered by the Republic of Rwanda in 1988.

It was a beautiful campus in the rolling countryside, in a country where an estimated 12 percent of the total population identify themselves as members of the Adventist Church. But then came 1994, with the most horrific genocide of the last quarter century. AUCA (Mudende) “Boysbecame the site of a horrific massacre of both students and faculty. The green fields of Rwanda ran red with blood. Nearly 1 million Rwandese were murdered — almost 10 percent of the entire population of the country — over the course of three months.

With the university’s faculty and leadership gone, the church in Rwanda had no heart to start again in Mudende. Healing had to take place before a decision was made to reestablish AUCA again, this time in the capital of Kigali. By then the country had undergone the difficult task of reconciliation and had started on the long road to development once again, including a major transition from French to English as their language of choice. People were encouraged to think of themselves as Rwandese, not Hutus or Tutsis, as the tribal barriers began to fade.

Rebuilding

A small parcel of land was initially obtained in Kigali, and AUCA reopened in old rundown buildings in 1996. Students started coming, confidence was regained, and the dream of a new campus started building. With this momentum, the government made available a large piece “Gishushuof land on the hills overlooking the city. The country itself was riding an economic wave of growth brought by stable national politics and solid fiscal management, resulting in considerable donor assistance and a renewed sense of optimism.

Within this climate, the church started an ambitious development program for AUCA on the new land. A key call was made for Angie and Dominic Pagarigan from the Philippines to join AUCA — Angie to serve as vice rector (VP) of finance, and Dominic to oversee the design and construction of new buildings. A major academic and administration block was completed in 2007, followed by a large auditorium/church, seating 1,800. This became the Masoro campus of AUCA.

This kind of progress does not go unnoticed, and the Rwandan government encouraged AUCA to develop additional programs. Adventist Health International had become involved with Mugonero Hospital by then, located four hours west of Kigali overlooking Lake Kivu. Plans to reopen the school of nursing at Mugonero were considered, with debate about what level of training would be best and whether it should remain a hospital-based program or instead become part of the university. Either way, major remodeling of the classrooms, dormitories and hospital itself were needed at Mugonero, and these are underway, mainly from church finances. A bachelor’s-level nursing program has now begun at Mugonero, now called the Ngoma campus of AUCA.

Serving sub-Saharan Africa

There are three divisions of the Adventist Church in sub-Saharan Africa, named geographically — West-Central Africa, with its new medical school at Babcock University in Nigeria; Southern Africa-Indian Ocean; and East-Central Africa. They have a collective church membership of 6.7 million in a population of around 900 million — nearly 1 percent.

“Masoro

As plans for a new medical school within the East-Central division at the University of Eastern Africa Baraton began to fade due to political strife in Kenya, the dream of AUCA starting a medical school on its Masoro campus was born. This was greatly encouraged by the government, as they recognized the quality of Adventist education and the international resources available to AUCA. Loma Linda was already assisting Malamulo Hospital, in Malawi, part of the Southern Africa-Indian Ocean Division (SID), to start residency programs for specialty training of physicians. So there was a certain logic to have a medical school in the East-Central Africa division and postgraduate training next door in SID. We believe this sharing of programs and faculty can work well for now, and we look forward to working with both these divisions.

Promising future

Rwanda has been called the Switzerland of Africa because of its steep hills and valleys, literally terraced to the top with eucalyptus, bananas, maize and beans, along with occasional other crops. For a farmer like me, there is nothing more beautiful than an entire country covered with verdant green crops. On this trip, we drove west to Mugonero, then on farther north to Ruhengeri, close to both the Uganda and Congo borders, nestled among dormant volcanic mountains. The government has offered AUCA clinical training sites at the busy provincial hospital there, which has 15 deliveries a day in the maternity unit, but it is in the public sector, with little opportunity to create our own culture.

Kigali, the capital of Rwanda, is being called the Singapore of Africa due to its clean streets, lack of beggars, manicured landscaping, new buildings and generally bustling economy. We met with both the minister of health, a young, engaging neonatologist trained in Europe, and the minister of education, who has a PhD in economics. Hand-picked by Rwandan President Paul Kagame to help pursue his dreams of rapid development, they epitomize the welcome spirit of collaboration that one finds everywhere in Rwanda now.

So the political doors are wide open, with beautiful space available on the large new Masoro campus for academic buildings, dormitories, a hospital and clinics. All we need is funding and the right people.name of picture AUCA is currently searching for a new rector (president) and also a founding dean for the school of nursing. Kenny Vicente from Universidad Adventista del Plata has agreed to come as the founding dean for medicine. We will talk more at Loma Linda about how to engage, but I feel this is a place that both needs and deserves some major assistance as they build toward the lofty goal of quality medical education to serve Africa.

Several key decisions have already been made — the school needs to be seen as a regional, not national, entity, serving all of east, central and southern Africa; we need our own teaching hospital to create the professionalism, compassion and skills that we should be known for; we should emphasize the recruitment of young women into medicine; and we should not be hesitant about making this an Adventist faith-based institution, with all that this means. Rwanda is 95 percent Christian, so this last point will be understood and widely accepted.

I am always humbled on these trips by how widely Loma Linda University Health is known and respected, and it is hard to keep from creating expectations that may be difficult to fulfill. We are blessed with our global network of partner institutions, and it is a privilege to work with them toward this type of goal. Pray for this endeavor that once again we may continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ.

Sincerely yours,

 

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

Office of the President, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350

Copyright © 2015 by Loma Linda University

llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 03 Dec 2015 15:04:54 -0800
4264:24465 <![CDATA[Maintaining patient privacy during headline events]]> Loma Linda University Health joins with the community in mourning for the victims of yesterday’s senseless mass shooting at the Inland Regional Center in San Bernardino.

Several wounded individuals were transported to Loma Linda University Medical Center for treatment. Loma Linda University Medical Center strictly protects patient confidentiality at all times. Employees should know what to do if approached by a member of the media.

If this occurs, refer media members to the office of public relations at 909-558-4111, or ext. 44111.

]]>
Thu, 03 Dec 2015 15:26:22 -0800
4264:24467 <![CDATA[Candlelight vigil offered tonight for shooting victims]]> A faith-based public candlelight vigil will take place tonight, Dec. 3, at 6 p.m. at San Manuel Stadium in San Bernardino, 280 South E Street. Doors open at 5 p.m.

The vigil will honor victims of the mass shooting yesterday, Dec. 2, at Inland Regional Center in San Bernardino.

Area faith leaders and city officials will be speaking, and prayers will be offered. The program is expected to last about an hour.

The stadium will have some candles available to attendees but invites people to bring their own to supplement the supply.

No large bags will be allowed into the stadium — only small purses.

For more information, call 909-888-9922 or email Jordan@ie66ers.com.

]]>
Thu, 03 Dec 2015 15:53:12 -0800
4264:24192 <![CDATA[Give to a giver with Adopt-a-Missionary]]> Courtney Haas This holiday season, why not think outside the box of traditional gift giving? Give to a giver through the third annual “Adopt-a-Missionary” Christmas project and help spread holiday cheer around the world to missionaries and their families.

This project, sponsored by Loma Linda University Health’s Global Health Institute (GHI), in collaboration with Students for International Mission Service and the National Association of Seventh-day Adventist Dentists, focuses on collecting care packages filled with Christmas goodies for the volunteers and their families currently serving abroad.

With the boxes going out to nearly 30 volunteers, this is the opportunity to share a little reminder of home and spread the holiday spirit overseas.    

These missionaries are working at Loma Linda University Health strategic interest sites as dentists, hospital administrators, nurses, public health educators and more. They range from Loma Linda University alumni, LLU global service awardees, LLU deferred mission appointees and Adventist Health International long-term volunteers. 

The job is simple and fun, and care package sponsors can be individuals or groups.

  • Choose a family by contacting GHI.
  • Pick up a box from GHI’s office located at 24888 Prospect Ave.
  • Fill it up – up to 20 lbs!
  • Return it, unsealed, by Dec. 9.
  • Feel warm fuzzies.

These missionaries are dedicating their lives to fulfill Loma Linda University Health’s motto “to make man whole” all over the world. Give to a giver today and make this project a very special part of the holiday season. 

To learn more about this project and see a list of suggested gifts, please visit lluglobal.com/Adopt or contact Angeli Yutuc, program manager of international service, at 909-558-4876 or ayutuc@llu.edu.

Examples of things to send include peanut butter, batteries, lotion, recipes, movies, music, LLU gear, etc. 

Things not to send include aerosols, fruits and veggies, perfumes, perishable food, etc. 

]]>
Thu, 19 Nov 2015 14:27:05 -0800
4264:24172 <![CDATA[A new heart fills with life]]> By Advancement Films ]]> In this video, heart transplant recipient Brian Mowrey, DDS, shared his patient testimonial with patrons of the International Heart Institute when it was shown during a fundraising event on Nov. 4. “The team at Loma Linda — they’ve become another part of my family,” Mowrey shared. “They gave me a second chance at life.”

]]>
Thu, 19 Nov 2015 11:09:48 -0800
4264:24173 <![CDATA[Weekend road closures]]> Heather Reifsnyder On the nights of Nov. 20 and Nov. 22, be advised of these road closures due to the interchange improvement project at Interstate 10 and Anderson/Tippecanoe.

Friday, Nov. 20

Bridge work will take place from 3 to 6 a.m., resulting in:

            • Full street closure of Anderson Street from Redlands Boulevard to westbound on- and off-ramps for Interstate 10.

            • Full freeway off- and on-ramp closures eastbound

            • Full on-ramp closure westbound

            • Left turn lane closure at westbound off-ramp.

Sunday, Nov. 22

Two separate projects will take place the night of the 22nd.

            • From 8 p.m. to 6 a.m., lane striping will take place, resulting in alternating lane closures on Anderson/Tippecanoe from Lee Street to Court Street.

            • From 10 p.m. to 5 a.m., there will be intermittent on- and off-ramp closures for Interstate 10 both east- and westbound due to grading, striping, potholing and installing a waterline.

Follow the project online at www.sanbag.ca.gov/projects. Or, to request more information, call 800-875-4990 or email twatkins@sanbag.ca.gov.

]]>
Thu, 19 Nov 2015 11:58:39 -0800
4264:24174 <![CDATA[Enjoy the holiday with finished business]]> Heather Reifsnyder When counting blessings on Thanksgiving Day, let one of them be that all necessary business was finished before the holiday began.

Administrative and support offices will only be open Monday and Tuesday of Thanksgiving week for Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Children’s Hospital, Behavioral Medicine Center and Shared Services. They will remain closed until Monday, Nov. 30. 

Loma Linda University administrative and support offices will remain open until 2 p.m. Wednesday, then closed Thursday and Friday. Business will resume the following Monday. 

At LLU Medical Center – Murrieta, support departments will be closed from Wednesday through Friday of Thanksgiving week. Some support offices will be closed the entire week. Please refer to LLUMC – Murrieta’s intranet for additional information.

Loma Linda University Health wishes its employees, students and neighboring communities a safe and happy Thanksgiving holiday.

 

 

]]>
Thu, 19 Nov 2015 12:00:03 -0800
4264:24175 <![CDATA[Start the season of giving with LLU Children's Hospital]]> Heather Reifsnyder Though it would be many people’s dearest Christmas wish, pediatric cancer fails to take a holiday vacation.

So Stater Bros. Charities and K-Frog country radio stations will raise funds for childhood cancer patients at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital through the annual Stater Bros. Charities K-Froggers for Kids Radiothon.

The radiothon will take place Wednesday, Dec. 2, from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m.  

Tune in to K-Frog 95.1 or 92.9 (for Temecula Valley listeners), or listen online at www.kfrog.com. The event will be broadcast live from Bass Pro Shops in Rancho Cucamonga.

Donors can also give now by visiting www.gofundme.com/kfrogradiothon.

All donations made ahead of the radiothon will be matched dollar for dollar by Stater Bros. Charities, up to $1,000.

For more information or to volunteer to answer phones, call Tiffany Hoekstra at 909-558-5367.

Last year, the radiothon raised more than $275,000 for pediatric cancer treatment at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital. 

]]>
Thu, 19 Nov 2015 12:01:05 -0800
4264:24176 <![CDATA[Preferred gas station closed Friday]]> Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Health employees are normally instructed to refuel institutional vehicles at the Valero gas station on Waterman Avenue just north of Barton Road.

However, on Friday, Nov. 20, until about 2 p.m., this station will be closed for testing by the fire department. 

During this time only, Loma Linda fleet vehicles should instead by filled at the Valero station located at Waterman Avenue and 9th Street.

“Thank you for your cooperation with this brief change,” says Dominic Reichmuth, fleet and transportation manager, Loma Linda University Health. “Safe driving to all.”

 

]]>
Thu, 19 Nov 2015 12:02:19 -0800
4264:24102 <![CDATA[Notes from the President -- Justice ]]> Dr. Richard Hart   November 2015
Justice

Institutions and organizations of all kinds talk a lot about values these days. It seems we hope that talking will instill these virtues into our people and cultures. We recognize that values are so central to our beings that they are probably not something we can “teach” in any traditional “Richardsense, but must arise from somewhere inside, from long ago, coming from our childhood or even genetics. But I believe we can “call them out” by modeling them in a way that reawakens them, reinforces them and makes them a more visible part of our everyday activities.

Some 15-20 years ago, Lyn Behrens, our president at the time, assembled a group of us from Loma Linda University to discuss and state our “core values.” It was tough work — months of word-smithing, struggling to identify the basic concepts and determine how words overlap, etc. But finally we came up with seven values that are now being used at Loma Linda University. To help remember them, Billy Hughes, our soon-to-retire dean of the School of Pharmacy, came up with a good acronym — JCHIEFS — Justice, Compassion, Humility, Integrity, Excellence, Freedom and Self-Control. A few years later, in creating its own set of core values, LLU Medical Center also chose Compassion, Integrity and Excellence (what we call ICE) and added two more — Wholeness and Teamwork.

In light of our corporate unification initiative, we probably should agree on a common set of values for all of us at Loma Linda University Health, but that is a battle waiting for another day. For now, I would like to periodically discuss the university’s seven values, one by one. I am not a historian, theologian or philosopher, so my approach will be rather more mundane, coming from my particular view of the world and the institution in which I live. I do find myself referring to these core values frequently as we struggle with institutional decisions built on the fundamental reasons why we exist. So here goes.

Justice — it is clear that the concept of justice varies by culture, religion and people groups. The ancients struggled with this concept in many different ways, and various applications of justice have been developed — distributive justice, restorative (reparative) justice, natural justice and so on. Many trace the roots of justice to the religious world, and certainly the Old Testament is full of references to justice as a “Ladycompelling characteristic of God’s people. Plato wondered, “Is what is commanded by God morally good because it is morally good, or is it morally good because it is commanded by God?” In our current presidential race in America, we have a self-proclaimed “democratic socialist” who argues persuasively that this country’s resources should be more equitably distributed and utilized — justice at the economic level. These concepts stand in fairly sharp contrast to the prevailing tenor of this country’s capitalism — you get what you earn and deserve.

Lady Justice, an international symbol of this value, has three tools embedded in her arsenal. First is a sword, indicating the necessary enforcement aspects of justice. Next is a scale, indicating the need to balance many issues when determining what is just. And finally is a blindfold, showing the necessity of being fair to all without influence of position or power. A common feeling in society today is that some “get away with it” because of who they are or the money they have. These three aspects represent the challenges in determining and administering justice.

So Justice has earned its place as a “Core Value” at Loma Linda University. One cannot adjudicate many decisions without coming up against this basic issue — what is fair, what is just? A common complaint from my grandkids — “That isn’t fair” — suggests a fundamental sense of right and wrong from early ages. But how do we view the disabled vet on the off ramp offering to work for food, or the struggling family trying to make it on a minimum wage? Loma Linda has now committed itself to a path of paying a “living wage” to its employees, a social concept catching on in this country. On the other side, we also talk about the 1 percent, those ultra-rich who impact this country through their companies and resources. Perhaps with some exceptions, I’ve got to believe these are decent people with their own internal sense of right and wrong, of justice and fairness, of personal obligations about their wealth and capacity. We all need to make our own decisions about our commitments and sharing of our personal resources.

During my early professional career, I worked in Tanzania under the governmental leadership of Julius Nyerere, founding president of the country. His strong sense of justice led to a socialistic form of centralized economic planning that nearly bankrupted the country. He also launched the infamous ujamaa villages where the rural people were forced to move into planned villages to provide them with better access to social services. But his“Amos policies were a real benefit for those of us planning health care and education for the general population. Imagine having a government truly committed to providing a clinic within 10 kilometers of every citizen and primary schools within reach of all. If you had the fortune of receiving advanced education, a benefit accorded to only a few by society, it did not give you special privileges or wages beyond the norm, but only increased the “debt” of service you had to give back. As I watch young professionals in all cultures determine how to use their God-given talents, I wish we could share Nyerere’s sense of justice more widely.

Especially now as I travel globally, I have to wonder about the fairness of life and the distribution of resources. There are mission hospitals barely surviving, students struggling to earn their way through school, children and mothers living and dying with inadequate shelter, food and health care — even as we have excesses in many areas of our lives. Our San Bernardino campus is one small step Loma Linda University Health has made to balance this equation. To learn more about the need in San Bernardino, view this documentary by the Los Angeles Times at http://graphics.latimes.com/san-bernardino-video.

Even now as I drive by the new building under construction, I can envision young lives being motivated and empowered to take their rightful place in the community. Additionally, hosting Adventist Health International at Loma Linda, with its commitment to strengthen mission hospitals, is another attempt at distributive justice. My prayer is that our students, faculty, staff and alumni will share this commitment to justice for all. 

Respectfully,

 

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
Richard
President
Loma Linda University Health

Vision 2020: The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow

Office of the President, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350

Copyright © 2015 by Loma Linda University

 

]]>
Thu, 12 Nov 2015 12:53:47 -0800
4264:24083 <![CDATA[Minimum 'living wage' instituted at Loma Linda University Health]]> Briana Pastorino Loma Linda University Health has instituted a minimum “living wage” of $13 per hour for all regular, benefitted employees who work at least 20 hours per week. Looking forward, the intent is to continue to increase that minimum over the next few years to at least $15 per hour.

Effective Nov. 1, the living wage has been provided to all employees who met the criteria under the umbrella organization of Loma Linda University Health, including all seven hospitals and the university. With this wage adjustment, more than 800 employees have been lifted to $13 per hour.

“We are committed to providing a living wage that is higher than both the federal and California minimum wage,” says Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president, Loma Linda University Health. “We do this in recognition of the dignity and honor of work and the important role every employee plays in our organization, its educational goals, and our mission in the community and the world around us.”

In a society that promotes the value of work and responsibility, and as one of the largest private employers in the region, Loma Linda University Health is committed to this policy as the right thing for its employees and the organization.

“We must match our commitment to mission and community with pay that provides employees earnings adequate to support themselves and their family,” Hart adds.

“Loma Linda University Health attracts many employees committed to our mission as a teaching and healing ministry and to working in an environment that is truly special. We are grateful for these dedicated employees who work in service to others.”

]]>
Thu, 12 Nov 2015 11:23:00 -0800
4264:24095 <![CDATA[Stay alert: maintaining crosswalk safety]]> Courtney Haas Crosswalk safety is of the utmost concern as students and staff are busily moving around campus. With dusk now falling before 5 p.m., drivers and pedestrians both need to pay extra attention at intersections and be aware that visibility is lower during this time. 

As a pedestrian, some things to remember are:

• Do not use cell phones while in the crosswalk.

• Refrain from jaywalking and always be sure to maintain eye contact with drivers preparing to enter the intersection.

• To safely cross, stop at the curb and look left and right. Ensure all traffic has stopped prior to walking and if possible, cross the street at the same time as other pedestrians.

Drivers must give the right of way to pedestrians. Stay vigilant with these tips.

• Motorists should not drive through the crosswalk until pedestrian(s) reach the opposite curb.

• Drivers should also refrain from using their cell phone while at the wheel.

• As the driver, be alert to those entering the crosswalk and acknowledge that when eye contact is made, the pedestrian is ready to cross.

Either as a pedestrian or a driver, it is essential to stay alert and make Loma Linda University Health’s campus a safe area for people walking.

For more information about how to maintain crosswalk safety, click here

]]>
Thu, 12 Nov 2015 11:59:00 -0800
4264:24086 <![CDATA[Life on the Line: season two re-airs on KVCR]]> Courtney Haas Season two of “Life on the Line,” Loma Linda University Health’s national documentary television program, will be re-airing on KVCR, channel 24. Starting Nov. 18, the show will be regularly viewed Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m.   

“Life on the Line” features stories of the resilience of humankind, and season two does not disappoint with exciting stories of survival from all over the world. Each episode will inspire and amaze by showing what people are capable of encountering and persevering through.

Dates the shows will be airing:

  • Wednesday, Nov. 18 – “Rough Beginning”
  • Wednesday, Dec. 2 – “Last Chance”
  • Wednesday, Dec. 9 – “The Aftermath”
  • Wednesday, Dec. 16 – “The Match”
  • Wednesday, Dec. 23 – “The Lost Generation”
  • Wednesday, Dec. 30 – “Hidden Pain”
  • Wednesday, Jan. 6 – "Footsteps of the Unknown"

To learn more about KVCR’s coverage area, visit www.kvcr.org/TV/Coverage.

]]>
Thu, 12 Nov 2015 11:28:04 -0800
4264:24084 <![CDATA[New Women's Imaging Center opens ]]> Larry Kidder The brand-new Women’s Imaging Center, located on the first floor of Loma Linda University Health’s Faculty Medical Offices building, may feel like a spa to patients, but it boasts some of the latest technology available in detecting breast cancer and other conditions.

During an open house of the new center Oct. 22, a number of visitors toured the Asian-spa-themed hallways and treatment rooms, where they learned about the Hologic 3-D mammography equipment, which uses tomosynthesis software to create a 3-D view of the breast from top to bottom.

In addition to tomosynthesis, which allows physicians to detect breast cancer significantly earlier and more precisely than 2-D mammography, the center offers a full range of screenings and diagnostic exams, both breast and pelvic ultrasounds, and a wide variety of biopsy options.

The center also offers DEXA scans to measure bone density and has the capability to provide the most accurate type of body-mass imaging for athletes or bariatric patients interested in tracking their progress at reducing body fat.

While the technologies and innovations that allow for improved diagnosis and cancer detection are impressive, Beverly Rigsby, MBA, service line director for women’s services, believes another innovation is equally significant.

“The biggest change,” Rigsby explains, “is the presence of a nurse navigator/manager to help patients as they go through the breast diagnostic process at Loma Linda University Health.”

She adds, “We realized the benefits of having a single point of contact to coordinate all the diagnostic radiology testing needed for an anxious patient waiting for a diagnosis.”

This role has been filled by Linda Koh, MS. “Linda is already beginning to coordinate care for patients and their referring physicians,” Rigsby shares.

The ambiance is another important point about the Women’s Imaging Center.

“When you enter the new Women’s Imaging Center, you might think you made a mistake,” says Rigsby. “Instead of an imaging center, you’ve entered a spa.”

The décor is meant to create an environment of calm for women having to endure a stressful time — whether it’s a standard screening exam or a follow-up test for possible cancer diagnoses. 

The Women’s Imaging Center is located in suite 1200 of the Faculty Medical Offices, 11370 Anderson Street, Loma Linda. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 909-558-5533. 

]]>
Thu, 12 Nov 2015 11:25:20 -0800
4264:23930 <![CDATA['Making Hope Happen']]> Jiggs Gallagher Loma Linda University Health is one of eight co-sponsors of the 2015 Community Gathering for Excellence, the fourth annual half-day conference at the National Orange Show on Tuesday, Nov. 10, beginning at 8 a.m. The free program includes a continental breakfast and a luncheon after the conference concludes at 12:30 p.m.

In addition to Loma Linda University Health, co-sponsors include the San Bernardino City Unified School District, San Bernardino Valley College, California State University San Bernardino, the San Bernardino County office of education, the city of San Bernardino and University of California Riverside.

The conference will focus on “Making Hope Happen,” the theme of enabling the youth of the community through education. Shane Lopez, PhD, author of the book “Making Hope Happen,” will deliver the keynote address. He is Gallup senior scientist and research director of the Clifton Strengths Institute and chief architect of the Gallup student poll. He is considered the world’s leading researcher on the subject of hope.

After his address, a panel of leaders from the event’s sponsoring institutions will discus Lopez’s speech and help translate his ideas for application to San Bernardino and the surrounding community.

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health, will sit on the panel. He was the keynote speaker at last year’s conference.

Loma Linda University Health is vitally interested in the future of education in the region, as evidenced by its creation of the San Manual Gateway College, which will begin educating local high school students and recent graduates for entry-level medical careers. It will be located at the new Loma Linda University Health – San Bernardino campus, scheduled to open in late spring of 2016.

President Hart is encouraging Loma Linda University Health employees, students and others who are able to attend the conference. While it is free of charge, attendees must pre-register through the website Eventbrite. Go to the following URL to register:

http://www.eventbrite.com/o/san-bernardino-city-unified-school-district-8461393025?s=44633212

]]>
Thu, 05 Nov 2015 12:58:17 -0800
4264:23933 <![CDATA[Share with those in need through food drive]]> Courtney Haas Thanksgiving season is upon us, and what better way to live thankfully than by sharing our bounty with those in need? 

As is the custom at Loma Linda University Health, the ThankSharing food drive bins are now in place through Nov. 19. The non-perishable food and toiletry items gathered during this time in Murrieta will be distributed to the local community, while items collected on the main campus will be given to SAC Health System and then provided to patient families in need.

To be a part of this encouraging program, drop off non-perishable food items at one of the many locations available throughout the Loma Linda University Health network.

  • LLU Medical Center – main lobby
  • East Campus – staff lounge
  • Behavioral Medicine Center – administration
  • LLU Surgical Hospital – employee entrance
  • Faculty Medical Offices – mail room
  • Drayson Center - lobby
  • West Hall parking structure – security office
  • School of Dentistry – student lounge
  • Mountain View Plaza – Room 228 lobby (upstairs)
  • LLUAHSC 101 Building – employee entrance
  • Outpatient Rehab Center – break room
  • LLUMC-Murrieta – lobby

To learn more about this program, please contact Kathy McMillan at kmcmillan@llu.edu or ext. 48406.  

]]>
Thu, 05 Nov 2015 14:08:08 -0800
4264:23935 <![CDATA[Revised holiday schedule and use of paid leave]]> Employees at Loma Linda University Health are really good at working hard, according to administrative praise. Patients and this community count on the organization to deliver every day, and it does.

But administrators note that one area of improvement is for employees to take time for themselves. Many employees aren’t using their accrued paid leave time. This affects the organization as well as employees’ ability to rest and refresh.

In August 2015, an administrative message was sent encouraging all employees in administrative and support departments to use a minimum of 15 paid leave days by the end of the year. This would include the holidays that remain in 2015 and New Year’s 2016. This applies to employees of LLU Medical Center, Children’s Hospital, Behavioral Medicine Center and Shared Services.

This is a reminder that in order to accommodate employees who want to extend their days off around Thanksgiving, Christmas or New Year’s holidays, all administrative offices will be closed on the following dates:

  • Wednesday, Nov. 25, before the Thanksgiving holiday on Thursday and Friday
  • Thursday, Dec. 24, before the Christmas holiday on Friday
  • Thursday, Dec. 31, before the Friday New Year’s holiday

This revised schedule will allow all employees in administrative and support departments to add extra days to holiday plans or to take a getaway with their families.

All clinical departments will retain their normal holiday schedules and staffing.

With this holiday schedule change, all benefit-eligible hourly employees will be provided the option of using either paid leave or unpaid “budget hours” to cover the regularly scheduled hours for the extended holiday schedule.

If an employee elects to use budget hours to cover these additional days off, the employee will not be paid for these hours but will receive full benefit accruals and maintain benefit eligibility. Note that budget hours will only be available for the additional days when departments are closed and not for the regularly scheduled holidays or additional days off work.

If an hourly employee wants to be paid for these days when offices are closed, the employee should submit a paid leave calendar request through the API system using the “PDL” code. If an employee wants to save paid leave and take time off without pay, the employee should apply the budget time “BGT” code to cover the time off on the days indicated above.

Budget time does not apply to salaried employees. Similar to holiday paid leave, salaried employees will have the extra days from the holiday schedule automatically loaded into API. If a salaried employee does not have adequate paid leave to cover a recognized holiday, that is covered by holiday paid.

For leave or the extra days described above, the system will automatically allow the paid leave balance to go in the negative. If a salaried employee is needed at work on either a holiday or an extra day, they will need to cancel the holiday or extra day entry so that their time will be reported as a salary day of work.

While it is always important for employees to find a good work-life balance, administrators are asking that employees make an extra effort to take time off before year’s end as one way for the organization to meet productivity goals.

For more information about how this schedule change will impact you or your department, please contact your supervisor.

Administrators thank all employees for their cooperation and for all the work they do every day.

]]>
Thu, 05 Nov 2015 14:15:42 -0800
4264:23928 <![CDATA[Deck the halls ... safely]]> Courtney Haas Safety is important during the holiday season, whether at home or in the work environment. As employees prepare for the festivities and decorations that go along with fall, Thanksgiving and Christmas, the Loma Linda University Health department of environmental health and safety wants to make sure everyone knows what is appropriate and safe in the work environment.

To establish what is acceptable within workspaces this holiday season, the department sent out a Safety Matters Newsletter explaining Loma Linda University Health decorating policies.

“We must be safe at home — it’s true, but work is not different. In fact, at work we must be especially cautious of safety regulations,” Vicki Brown, safety programs coordinator, shared. “This is to keep all our facilities in compliance with the city, state and federal fire codes and to keep everyone safe while on our campus. It is a big job and it takes everyone working together to do so.”

To learn more decorating safety and read these policies, please open the attachment below.

]]>
Thu, 05 Nov 2015 12:49:51 -0800
4264:23926 <![CDATA[Road closures at I-10 and Anderson Street]]>

]]>
Thu, 05 Nov 2015 12:40:14 -0800
4264:23852 <![CDATA[Photo contest now open for prayer notes]]> For the past 13 years, Loma Linda University Health has created an annual set of prayer note cards. To be used in patient care, each note, similar to a postcard, has a beautiful nature photo on one side and an encouraging verse of scripture on the back. There is also a note that says “I prayed for you today and asked God to bless you.”

It has become a tradition to select photos for the cards via a contest for employees and students of Loma Linda University Health.

Photo entries are now being accepted with a deadline of Friday, November 20, 2015. Images should be inspirational, in color and of nature. Additionally, the photos should by four by six inches (vertical or horizontal), in JPG format, with a resolution of 300 DPI.

In addition to winners having their photos featured on the cards, prizes are as follows:

  • 1st place – $100 gift card 
  • 2nd place – $75 gift card 
  • 3rd place – $50 gift card 
  • Runners up  – $25 gift card 

Submit photographs to Kathy McMillan, employee spiritual care, LLU Medical Center, room 4011.

For more information, email kmcmillan@llu.edu or call ext. 48406. Download the flier below for further details.

]]>
Thu, 29 Oct 2015 13:11:33 -0700
4264:23844 <![CDATA[Hundreds gather for celebration of proton anniversary]]> Hundreds of former cancer patients and family members reunited Oct. 26 at Loma Linda University Medical Center to celebrate their health and the trailblazing proton radiation technology that helped them beat the disease. The reunion was part of the 25th anniversary of the James M. Slater, MD Proton Treatment & Research Center, the world’s first hospital-based proton therapy facility.

Former patients had many opportunities to come together over a two-day period of activities and reflect about the Proton Treatment Center, which for many became their home away from home during treatment. From the patient reunion dinner that launched the celebration to hikes, tours, seminars, healthy food demonstrations, a history wall unveiling, and a film screening, there were ample opportunities to share stories and common bonds. 

The highlight of the 25th anniversary celebration was the proton homecoming event in which former patients gathered to pay tribute to one of the center’s most celebrated staff members, Lynn Martell, DMin, director of special services. Martell works with patients every step of the way during their treatment — from the orientation he provides when they begin treatment, through the many wellness and spiritual programs that help them feel whole again.

“We are extremely proud of our program. Not only were we the first to bring this lifesaving technology to the hospital setting, but there is no other proton center worldwide that devotes the attention we do to other aspects of the healing process,” said Jerry Slater, MD, chair and medical director of the LLU department of radiation medicine and the James M. Slater, MD Proton Treatment & Research Center.

“In addition to targeted proton treatment, we concentrate on patient-wellness elements including nutrition, activity and spirituality, all which have proven to be vital to healing and longevity.”

Loma Linda’s philosophy of care begins at the time of diagnosis and centers around treating the “whole person,” including the myriad of physical, psychological and spiritual needs that are essential to healing. Every aspect of healthy living is presented to LLU Medical Center patients as they learn that healing comprises many components, from nutrition to physical activity to social networking to spiritual support.

The 25th anniversary series of events included the official unveiling of the Proton History Wall, which showcases the long and illustrious journey and accomplishments of the center. In addition to the actual development of proton technology for cancer treatment in the hospital setting, some of the many milestones featured on the wall include the center’s work with NASA to research the effects of radiation in space; the development of a robotic precision patient alignment system, which further improves the accuracy of repeatable patient positioning; and countless clinical trials that continue to be conducted to improve and expand proton treatment’s effectiveness.

“The future of proton is incredibly promising thanks to technological advancements that will allow for the treatment of additional types of difficult-to-reach tumors while, at the same time, expanding proton’s effectiveness in the treatment of numerous other diseases and conditions,” Slater reported during the history wall unveiling ceremony.  

According to Slater, the future of proton’s uses includes expanded treatment for pediatric tumors as well as treatments for gastrointestinal diseases including esophageal, lung and liver tumors. Proton also is being studied as a potential treatment for heart disease and post-traumatic stress disorder. 

Modern medical practices, including the use of proton radiation therapy, have led to a growing population of cancer survivors in the country. Survivors now number over 14 million, or one in 25 Americans.

“A quarter century has seemed to pass in the blink of an eye, and we are proud of our accomplishments that have helped save thousands of lives,” Slater said. “We look forward to the next 25 years and helping more people live the lives they deserve.”

]]>
Thu, 29 Oct 2015 12:28:30 -0700
4264:23841 <![CDATA[Closures at I-10 and Anderson Street]]>
]]>
Thu, 29 Oct 2015 12:25:54 -0700
4264:23836 <![CDATA[CEO Kerry Heinrich shares his thoughts in new video series]]> Loma Linda University Medical Center is pleased to introduce Video Notes from the CEO, in which every other week, CEO Kerry Heinrich, JD, will share his personal thoughts with all employees.

These short segments will allow all employees the opportunity to hear directly from Heinrich about various topics that impact us all. These short clips will allow employees to keep focus on what they do best while enabling a connection with the CEO.

A new video will be added every other week to a dedicated VIP page, found on on-campus computers at http://vip.mc.llumc.edu/vip/General/Organizational-Initiatives/Video-Notes-from-the-CEO/Index.page

Here is the first video:

]]>
Thu, 29 Oct 2015 12:15:20 -0700
4264:23838 <![CDATA[Affiliation entered with Southern Mono Healthcare District]]> Susan Onuma Loma Linda University Health and the Southern Mono Healthcare District have entered into an affiliation agreement in order to enhance access to high quality care in the Southern Mono Healthcare District. This agreement becomes effective Nov 1.

“Loma Linda University Health is focused on improving the health status of communities and individuals throughout the broad region it serves,” says Kerry Heinrich, JD, chief executive officer, Loma Linda University Medical Center.

“We are fully committed to developing partnerships with community hospitals, physician groups and other health service organizations,” he continues. “We are thrilled at this new opportunity to expand our services to this community and work in collaboration with the Southern Mono district to advance medical knowledge through a number of new and exciting programs.”

Under this affiliation agreement, Loma Linda University Health will provide resources to the district-run Mammoth Hospital to enhance medical and hospital services to the Southern Mono Healthcare District communities.

Additionally, on-site specialty care in selected service areas will be developed, where feasible, at Mammoth Hospital’s Rural Health Clinic. The affiliation also provides for a collaborative new sports medicine fellowship program and training programs, such as simulation exercises, short-term clinical intensives and other methods that will benefit both Loma Linda University Medical Center and Mammoth Hospital clinical staff.

Under development is a plan to conduct regularly scheduled specialty services and consultations via telemedicine using telecommunication and information technologies that will provide clinical health care from a distance. The partnership is also exploring the establishment of a program where Mammoth Hospital will serve as a rural training site for Loma Linda University medical students and residents.

Gary Myers, chief executive officer of Mammoth Hospital, says, “The affiliation with Loma Linda University Health is an exciting opportunity for us and for the community we serve. We are looking forward to expanding our service offerings through this partnership.  

“The mission of the Southern Mono Healthcare District is to protect the well-being and improve the health of our residents and guests,” Myers continues, “and this new affiliation will allow Mammoth Hospital to enhance its service offerings and provide more specialty care here in the Eastern Sierra."

“This affiliation is another step in fulfilling our strategic plan of establishing a clinical integration network that extends our ability to provide health care to local communities,” says Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health, "while also increasing access to tertiary, quaternary and advanced specialty care for the vast four-county area that falls within our purview.

“We intend to integrate our commitment ‘to make man whole’ with mission and dedication to the community.” 

]]>
Thu, 29 Oct 2015 12:17:42 -0700
4264:23840 <![CDATA[Open enrollment: Nov. 1 through 16 ]]> Open enrollment for benefits begins Nov. 1, and employees have until Nov. 16 to submit their requests. This applies to employees of LLU Behavioral Medicine Center, Children’s Hospital, Health Care, Medical Center, Shared Services and Loma Linda-Inland Empire Consortium for Healthcare Education.

LLU employees will have the opportunity to make changes to their health plan during the spring open enrollment period. However, during this open enrollment period, LLU employees can enroll or re-enroll into the flexible spending accounts. In addition, LLU employees who are currently enrolled in the base plan are eligible to add dependents during this open enrollment period. However, employees enrolled in the Wholeness Plan cannot add dependents until the spring open enrollment period.

To review your current (2015) benefit selections, visit the benefits section of PeoplePortal and select “Benefits Summary.”

To make elections for 2016, follow these steps:  

  1. Log on to PeoplePortal (https://peopleportal.llu.edu) For login assistance and password resets, call the help desk:

                 • BMC, CH, IEC, MC, UHC and USS employees: 909-558-8008 or ext. 48889, option #2.
                 • LLU employees: 909-558-8053 or ext. 48611

  1. Find the Employee Self Service section.
  2. Select Benefits.
  3. Select Benefits Enrollment.
  4. Click Select. (If multiple events are open, please complete each event in date order.)
  5. Review your election choices: health, life insurance, flexible spending account, etc.
  6. Click Edit to make changes to your benefits. Please remember to waive the benefits you do not want, and ensure that you have named at least one beneficiary for your employee life insurance.
  7. Click Submit to proceed to the Authorization Notice.
  8. Read the Authorization Notice and click Authorize to send your final choices to talent management services – benefits for review.
  9. Click OK when you receive confirmation on your screen.
  10. Print the confirmation page for your records.
  11. Provide all required documents mentioned on PeoplePortal or as prompted by talent management services – benefits and risk management.

Note: If your status does not indicate submitted, then you have not successfully completed the submission process.

Questions?

  • If you have benefits questions, please e-mail Benefits@llu.edu.
  • If you have questions about the enrollment process or require password assistance, contact PeopleSoftSupport at: 909-651-4114 or ext. 14114 or PeopleSoftSupport@llu.edu.
  • For questions about the medical/dental plans, contact risk management at 909-651-4010 or ext. 14010.
]]>
Thu, 29 Oct 2015 12:22:35 -0700
4264:23753 <![CDATA[Video: Cops for Kids Fly-in]]> Advancement films ]]> Watch as helicopters, police motorcycles and SWAT vehicles make a grand entrance to campus Oct. 20 to the delight of Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital patients, who then got to sit in the vehicles before the police and sheriff’s officers went onto the Children’s Hospital units to distribute toys. 

]]>
Thu, 22 Oct 2015 11:17:54 -0700
4264:23755 <![CDATA[Good news for dark chocolate lovers]]> Susan Onuma Cue the rejoicing. A Loma Linda University research team, led by Lee Berk, DrPH, has confirmed that the consumption of dark chocolate (cacao) benefits brain health.

Berk was swarmed with interest when he presented these findings earlier this week during the 45th annual Society for Neuroscience meeting in Chicago.

The research team’s initial studies have shown that absorbed cacao flavonoids penetrate and accumulate in the brain regions associated with learning and memory, resulting in nerve-altering and protective proteins that promote nerve cell growth, increase brain function and brain communication, improve blood flow and promote the formation of blood vessels in the brain and sensory systems.

Cacao or dark chocolate (70 percent cacao content) is a major source of flavonoids, powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory components with known processes shown to be beneficial to cardiovascular health.

“We have for the first time shown that there is a possible connection of neuroelectric activities that initiate the mechanisms of cacao's beneficial effects on brain reasoning and intellect, synchronization, memory, recall, mood and behavior,” Berk says.

He feels that neuroelectric activity initiation and modulatory control of acute and chronic action from cacao flavonoids on brain state will need further investigation, but he also senses that it is the wave of the future for assessing effects on brain state modulation by healthy chocolate.

“We are tremendously excited about what these findings could potentially mean for brain health,” Berk says. “Cacao can regulate various levels of sensory awareness and evenly increases power spectral density (uV2) of different electroencephalographic (EEG) frequencies. 

“The most profound finding is that the EEG gamma wave band frequency — which is associated with the brain’s highest level of mental processing, enhanced memory and recall, and physiological benefits — is the frequency that is most meaningfully increased above all other brain frequencies,” Berk continues.

Berk says that this study provides unbiased evidence that the EEG gamma wave band frequency (γBA) is started by different cacao sensory awareness tasks ranging from prior conditioned experience to acute cacao consumption, with later modulation for brain, behavioral and physiological benefits.

“This may open the door for potential restorative uses of high concentration cacao (70 percent) for individuals with memory/recall or dementia and aging-related issues,” he says.

Further studies are in progress by Berk’s research team at Loma Linda University Health to investigate these questions.

]]>
Thu, 22 Oct 2015 11:23:56 -0700
4264:23761 <![CDATA['Soul surfer' speaks at PossAbilities Sports Luncheon]]> Briana Pastorino Bethany Hamilton spoke to a crowd of approximately 280 people at the PossAbilities Sports Luncheon on Oct. 14 at Loma Linda University Health. 

Hamilton, 25, shared her personal story of triumph, challenge and “soul surfing” during the fundraising event, which brought in over $125,000 for PossAbilities. PossAbilities is a free community outreach program at Loma Linda University Health that offers disabled individuals who were born with or have suffered a permanent physical injury a sense of community and a healthy social network, as well as various resources and opportunities they might not otherwise have. 

On Oct. 31, 2003, Hamilton’s left arm was bitten off by a 14-foot tiger shark while she was surfing in Kauai. Although she initially thought her career was over, she returned to the water just over one month after the attack. She wrote the book “Soul Surfer” about her experience.

“I was overcome with feelings of triumph and joy,” she said, adding that she thought that maybe she’d be able to encourage others through her experience.

She continued, “Anyone can go through traumatic times, but my life is a testimony to others that we can overcome challenges in life.”

Hamilton’s words resonated with the crowd, especially those U.S. Paralympic Team hopefuls from PossAbilities on the Road to Rio. The four athletes vying for a spot on the 2016 Paralympic Team in Rio de Janeiro will directly benefit from the funds raised at the sports luncheon. They are:

  • Greg Crouse: Paracanoist
  • Andre Barbieri: Paratriathlete
  • Delmon Dunston: Paracyclist
  • Nicholas Gleissner: Paracyclist

Also benefiting from the fundraiser was Zimri Solis, a PossAbilities member who at age 10 was diagnosed with meningococcal meningitis — a rare infection that causes the membrane covering the brain and spinal cord to become inflamed. To save his life, doctors had to amputate one of his legs and both hands. Now 33, Solis’ goal is to one day be a Paralympic triathlete.

During the luncheon, participants were encouraged to “dash for cash,” to raise funds for a new prosthetic leg Solis has needed for some time. With a goal of raising $5,000, attendees were excited to play and support Solis. Thanks to the generosity of the crowd, $16,000 was raised.

Also recognized during the event was adult trauma nurse coordinator Michael May, who has been a member of the Loma Linda University Health family since 1985. He was honored with the Humanitarian Award for his service and dedication to the healing of others.

“Through his spirit he shows love, through his kindness he shows compassion, and he is truly an earth angel,” said Cotie Williams, manager, community outreach & patient experience, Loma Linda University Medical Center East Campus.

For more information on PossAbilities and the Road to Rio program, visit TeamPossAbilities.org.

]]>
Thu, 22 Oct 2015 12:22:10 -0700
4264:23757 <![CDATA[Seeds of Hope raises $133,000 for Behavioral Medicine Center ]]> James Ponder The 8th annual Seeds of Hope fundraising dinner Oct. 7 raised more than $133,000 to benefit programs and services of Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center.

The speakers made it clear that the real beneficiaries of the event are the men and women of the Inland Empire who rely on the BMC, as the center is called, to help them overcome the reality and stigma of mental illness, addiction and dependency disorders.

Former San Bernardino mayor and Superior Court judge The Honorable Patrick J. Morris said the judicial community is very much aware that places like the BMC do more good than prisons, and he predicted that in the future, the American judicial system will put fewer people behind bars and more in rehabilitation and recovery.

Edward Field, MBA, vice president and administrator of the BMC, said that the National Alliance on Mental Illness has recognized the first full week of October as Mental Health Awareness Week. “One of the main themes is the fight against stigma,” he observed. “Most of us recognize that the stigma of mental illness and addiction is real, but sometimes we don’t see it.”

Perhaps the most candid and dramatic presentation of the evening was the story of Inland Empire teen Marcela Ontiveros. Marcela became increasingly sullen and withdrawn as she entered her teens. Concern, her parents, Alfonso and Lorena, enrolled her in the BMC.

This video of her family’s story was shown during the program.

“I was really nervous and reluctant to go,” Marcela shared with the audience. “I remember hoping I could just go through the program unnoticed.”

However, Glenn C. W. Scott Jr., program manager for outpatient youth services, put Marcela at ease with his sense of humor.

“The moment Glenn started cracking jokes,” Marcela shared, “I started to feel a bit more comfortable.”

But rather than getting better, things initially got worse as the Ontiveros family confronted their problems.

“The toughest day at the BMC was when I had to talk about how I was in front of everyone,” Marcela said. “I had gotten into a fight with my dad the previous day and I told Glenn that my father hit me, and my dad just sat there denying everything and I ended up crying in front of everyone because I was upset that he was lying. Everyone saw me cry and I felt vulnerable and embarrassed.”

Alfonso was scared. “I was afraid that she would tell the whole world what a horrible father she had when he got angry,” he explained. 

Lorena concluded divorce was the only way. She was stunned, however, when Marcela told her she would probably kill herself if her parents ended their marriage. “I knew that was a sign to stay,” Lorena said.

The decision to work on their issues paid off for the family. They learned to talk out differences rather than retreating into dysfunctional patterns. Over time, love, respect and dignity returned to their home.

“What message would you like to send home with our guests this evening?” Glenn asked.

“That it is OK to ask for help,” Marcela replied.

“Don’t be afraid of seeking help,” Alfonso agreed. “It’s time to start putting all those bad things and thoughts in the past.”

“God put the BMC in our path,” Lorena concluded.

After the Ontiveros family, Mike and Alejandra Morley shared their story of recovery from drug and alcohol addiction and codependency.

“At the seven-year clean and sober mark, I met my beautiful wife, Alejandra, an amazing woman of God!” Mike shared. Despite years of addiction, he said he now lives a life of joy and blessing. “I have a deep, personal relationship with God today, thanks to the BMC.”

Alejandra reached out for help after her son became addicted.

“Before the BMC,” she shared, “I didn’t know I had a problem. I didn’t do drugs or alcohol and I had a successful career in education.” She admitted, however, that she harbored depression, anxiety, guilt and shame prior to treatment.

“At first, I firmly denied I was codependent,” Alejandra noted, “since I didn’t have any mental health issues. But it only took one session to humbly accept that I was codependent, too, and that many of my son’s struggles had a lot to do with our family dynamics.”

“At the BMC, I found freedom,” she concluded. “My hope is that every broken and hurting family in the Inland Empire gets to know the name Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center.”

To learn more about the BMC, visit http://behavioral-medicine-center.lomalindahealth.org.

]]>
Thu, 22 Oct 2015 11:32:38 -0700
4264:23763 <![CDATA[New administrative appointments at Children's Hospital]]> Jiggs Gallagher Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital welcomed a new senior vice president/administrator Sept. 30, Scott Perryman, MBA.

An additional change in the Children’s Hospital administration is the appointment of Richard Chinnock, MD, MHCM, as chief medical officer.

Scott Perryman

Perryman comes to Loma Linda from Dallas, Texas, where he was senior vice president for operations and strategic planning at Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children.  There from November 2011, he was responsible for the hospital’s strategic plan, business development and operations.

“We’re eager to welcome Scott to this new position, created by the separate licensure of our Children’s Hospital last November,” says Terry Hansen, MPH, chief operating officer of Loma Linda University Medical Center. “He will bring extraordinary talent and accomplishment to our management team.”

Among his successes at the Dallas facility were developing operational and financial improvement, and leading successful turnarounds of provider organizations.

Perryman’s prior positions include senior VP for hospital finance at Community Hospital Corporation of Plano, Texas; senior VP of Argyle Solutions of Irving, Texas; assistant executive director, Scott and White Health System, Temple, Texas; and director of finance, Duke University Health System, Durham, North Carolina.

Perryman holds an MBA degree from Baylor University, Waco, Texas, and a BBA in marketing/management from the University of Texas at Arlington. He and his wife, Angie, have three children.

Richard Chinnock

Chinnock’s new position as chief medical officer became official Aug. 25, 2015. He has served as physician-in-chief at the hospital since August 2003 and has been affiliated with LLU Children’s Hospital since 1989.

The new position reflects his duties under the separate California State licensure that went into effect in November 2014, separating the hospital from the adult hospital’s license.

“I’m pleased to welcome Richard to this new position in our new Children’s Hospital administrative structure,” says Kerry Heinrich, JD, chief executive officer of Loma Linda University Medical Center. “He will continue to bring innovation and strength to our medical staff and operations.”

As physician-in-chief, Chinnock has been the primary liaison between the LLU School of Medicine, the pediatric service and Children’s Hospital administration. He has been chief quality officer, engaging in strategic planning and creating systems of pediatric care.

Prior to that appointment, Chinnock served Children’s Hospital as pediatric residency director, overseeing the academic program for post-graduate training in pediatrics, from 1991 to 2003.  He has simultaneously served as director of the pediatric heart transplant program (1990-present) and professor and chair of pediatrics for the School of Medicine (2003-present). 

Chinnock has been associated with LLU Children’s Hospital from its creation in 1993.

He holds a master’s in health care management from the Harvard University School of Public Health, and received his MD degree from the Loma Linda University School of Medicine. He did his residency in pediatrics at the U.S. Naval Hospital in San Diego, California.

Chinnock sits on many boards and has affiliations with dozens of organizations. Among them are the Children’s Specialty Care Coalition, where he was vice president in 2012.

]]>
Thu, 22 Oct 2015 12:31:28 -0700
4264:23750 <![CDATA[Calling all healthy heroes for Family Health Fair and 5K]]> Courtney Haas Calling all healthy heroes! Bring your friends and family to the Loma Linda University Drayson Center on Sunday, Nov. 1, for the Family Health Fair and free 5K walk/run.

The event consists of not only the 5K but also an array of healthy activities ranging from free flu shots, health screenings, food, prizes, fun and games, and much more.

There is also the opportunity to win a Disneyland family package for four.

Event timeline:

7 a.m. — Onsite registration begins for 5K walk/run

8 a.m. —5K walk/run starts

9 a.m. – 1 p.m. — Family Health Fair

To learn more about this event, please call 1-877-LLUMC-4U, or sign up for the 5K today by visiting www.FHF5K.org

]]>
Thu, 22 Oct 2015 10:52:28 -0700
4264:23678 <![CDATA[Fourth-quarter safety requirements]]> Heather Reifsnyder October is the beginning of a new quarter at Loma Linda University Health, and that means it’s time for quarterly safety requirements.


Fire extinguisher training

The schedule for fire extinguisher training during fourth quarter is now available.

Hands-on fire extinguisher training is required for each employee every three years. To find out when you are due for this training, email your cost center or employee ID number to ehs@llu.edu.

See the schedule and register here for fire extinguisher training.

For more information, call ext. 14019.

Quarterly safety reports

Each quarter, department heads and/or managers are responsible for identifying safety concerns, initiating correction and documenting them. These audits give departments the opportunity to remain prepared for regulatory agency inspections such as the Joint Commission, CMS, CDPH and the local fire department.

The following reports are due Oct. 23. Both forms can be downloaded below this article.

Environment of care self-tour form

All hospital and clinical department heads should fill out this form. For more information, contact Preston Brown at ext. 58163 or prbrown@llu.edu.

• Safety inspection checklist

This is for department heads or designees of Loma Linda University and LLU Shared Services. For questions, please contact Jhobanny “Gio” Candray at ext. 58154 or jcandray@llu.edu.

The completed forms are for each department’s records only and are not to be sent to the office of environmental health & safety.

]]>
Thu, 15 Oct 2015 13:11:34 -0700
4264:23680 <![CDATA[Physicians honored through anonymous gift to Vision 2020]]> Briana Pastorino A recent generous gift from an anonymous donor toward Vision 2020: The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow resulted in special recognition for three Loma Linda University Health physicians.

The donor wished not to be recognized, but rather draw attention to professionals who exemplify the qualities the donor values: Leonard Bailey, MD; H. Roger Hadley, MD; and Murray Brandstater, MBBS, PhD.

As a result of the gift, each physician now has a part of campus named in his honor, and these were revealed during recent dedication ceremonies.

They are:

• The Brandstater Ambulatory Rehabilitation Center, located at Loma Linda University Medical Center East Campus

• The Hadley Urology Practice Suite at the Loma Linda University Faculty Medical Offices, and

• The Leonard L. Bailey Cardiac Intensive Care Unit at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital (unit 5800).

Hadley, who is board certified in urology and general surgery, earned his MD from LLU School of Medicine in 1975. He served as chair of the department of urology from 1990 until stepping into his current role as dean of the School of Medicine in 2003.

Bailey also graduated from LLU School of Medicine in 1969 and has been an attending cardiothoracic surgeon at Loma Linda University Medical Center since 1976. He pioneered infant heart transplantation in 1984 after he successfully transplanted the heart of Baby Fae with that of a baboon when she was just 12 days old. Soon after, he performed the first successful infant-to-infant heart transplant.

Brandstater came to Loma Linda University Health in 1983, established the department of physical medicine and rehabilitation at the School of Medicine, and served as chair for 30 years. Under his leadership the in- and outpatient rehabilitation programs were established.

The anonymous gift will go toward the $360 million capital campaign, Vision 2020, which is part of the construction of the new adult hospital and expanded Children’s Hospital. Beyond the Vision 2020 philanthropic campaign, additional funding for health care will come from state grants, bond financing, and cash flow from operations. Vision 2020 will also strengthen the future of education and research at Loma Linda University Health.

]]>
Thu, 15 Oct 2015 13:17:15 -0700
4264:23676 <![CDATA[Who are Seventh-day Adventists?]]> Loma Linda University Health is blessed by employees from many faith traditions who help live out the organization’s mission to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ.

Whether longtime or new employees, individuals from other traditions may wonder about the basic beliefs of Seventh-day Adventists. Perhaps they have heard someone talk about the special gift of Sabbath or the focus on a healthy lifestyle. 

Interested employees are invited to an informational session for an overview of Adventist beliefs. There are two dates to choose from:  

• Monday, Nov. 9, from 5:15 – 7 p.m., or

• Thursday, Nov. 12, from noon – 1:30 p.m.

There will be ample time for questions following brief presentations, which will take place at Wong Kerlee International Conference Center.

Lunch or dinner will be served. The event is free to the first 30 respondents per each date. To sign up, visit myllu.llu.edu/owl; click on “self register” and search for keyword “Adventist.”

For more information, please call employee spiritual care at extension 87261.

 

 

]]>
Thu, 15 Oct 2015 13:09:04 -0700
4264:23681 <![CDATA[Fly high with Cops for Kids]]> Courtney Haas Common sense says to get out of the way of a brigade of police officials in motor vehicles and helicopters, but not this time. On Tuesday, Oct. 20, at 11 a.m. everyone is invited to participate in the yearly event Cops for Kids Fly-In. 

This 17th annual event will take place outside of Loma Linda University Medical Center on the north lawn next to Loma Linda University Church. 

Featuring law enforcement from all over Southern California, children will be given the opportunity to see, up close, SWAT vans, helicopters, motorcycles and more. 

The event begins with the helicopters landing, followed by the motorcycle police converging in front of Wong Kerlee International Conference Center. Once everyone is in place, children along with family members will be able to meet with the law enforcement before they move into Children’s Hospital to deliver toys and visit with kids on the units.

This event promises to be fun excitement for all ages, and all are encouraged to participate in the experience. 

To learn more about this event please contact Kelly Phipps at kphipps@llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 15 Oct 2015 13:29:31 -0700
4264:23691 <![CDATA[Notes from the President -- Passion]]> Dr. Richard Hart   October 2015
Instilling Passion

David Brooks is one of my favorite commentators, probably because I agree with many of his perspectives. So it was with some interest that I read his op-ed piece in The New York Times on Oct. 6 about American universities. According to him, our higher education institutions have swapped out their traditional role of instilling moral values and character in their students for the far more expedient role of preparing graduates for the workforce. While there is obviously some relationship between these two goals, it seems job skills are more saleable to prospective students and their families, while the far loftier goal of high moral character is left to other domains.

“2015

Brooks’ comments were looming in my mind as I looked out over our new student body at the annual fall convocation chapel last week. The Loma Linda University Church was packed, students sitting everywhere. One hundred and forty faculty members had marched in, wearing their traditional regalia, always a fine sight in the academic world. As I watched, I couldn’t help but wonder — have we struck the right balance between instilling moral values and workforce preparedness? Our graduates get jobs, good jobs — even national surveys have documented that. This is partly because we educate health professionals, a growth market across the country. But have we given them our best at developing their moral values, their characters, their passion for important causes bigger than themselves?

We seek to do this through several strategies. Certainly providing the right milieu for physical, mental and social growth is an important piece of professional development. We also recognize that spiritual growth is important in developing compassion, faith, hope and other key values in life. We seek to contribute to this in various venues and activities, including our service learning programs. But the virtue I am speaking of here is passion — passion for causes large and small. Many of our students come with boatloads of passion for causes of all kinds. It is always fascinating for me to watch their progression. Many “grow” out of their focused commitment as they progress through their education. For others, their passion seems to deepen and mature to the point that it truly defines their character and career.

Just this week I participated in an “International Crisis Committee” at the General Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church offices in Maryland. This committee has met more often than we would like recently, just last year dealing with whether Gillian Seton, our alumna and surgeon in Liberia, should stay or leave during the Ebola crisis.

“Facility

Then several weeks ago, the U.S. Embassy in Chad issued a warning that it was unsafe in the country due to twin threats — Boko Haram coming in from Nigeria to the south, and al-Qaida in the Islamic Maghreb from the north.

We have five American doctors and many volunteers and dependents working at Bere Adventist Hospital and Moundou Adventist Surgical Center, both in the south of Chad, as well as the new facility James and Sarah Appel are developing at Abougoudam in the east of Chad. Those of us who have worked abroad recognize that many times international news about a country may appear far scarier than what you feel on the ground when you are there.

But these seemed very credible threats, and so after deliberation, the committee asked everyone to leave Chad. Despite some protests, the team evacuated, except Olen Netteburg covering Bere and James Appel returning to cover Moundou. Now, several weeks later, the committee was meeting again to decide whether it was safe to return. I appreciated the careful deliberation the entire group went through as they weighed the pros and cons of placing employees in harm’s way. We recognized that much of the danger was still present and evacuation may not be easy or even possible the next time.

“Zach

But all our concerns had to be balanced against the passion of those who wanted to return, to voluntarily place themselves in danger because of the higher calling they feel to the people and patients of Chad. And so Scott and Bekki Gardner, Nick Buchholz and Diana Hernandez are returning to Moundou, while Rollin and Dolores Bland, Zach Gately and eventually others are returning to Bere.

How do we grow that kind of passion? Should we even try? Surely there can also be passion for “safer” causes of equal purpose. Whether in a local community, church, hospital or work environment, the world is crying out for people with passion. I can assure you that each of those serving in Chad have meaning and purpose in their lives. They must carry some fear, but they also carry great fulfillment. They have found a calling in what they do, and they believe this is where God wants them at this point in their lives.

That is the certainty of purpose we want to impart to others. That kind of passion, seeded around the world where our graduates end up, would change many things. More of that kind of passion among our faculty and staff at Loma Linda would also change many things!

Thank you to all of you who have found your passion and are making a difference wherever you are. May you be fulfilled and may your tribe increase!

Cordially yours,

 

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
“Richard

 

 

President
Loma Linda University Health

 

Vision 2020: The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow

Office of the President, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350

Copyright © 2015 by Loma Linda University

llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 15 Oct 2015 14:37:47 -0700
4264:23583 <![CDATA[Winter break mission opportunities in Central America are fast approaching]]> Courtney Haas Winter break is just around the corner and Loma Linda University Health’s Students for International Mission Service (SIMS) has exciting trips planned to Belize and Honduras.

As a Loma Linda University Health student, staff or faculty member, you are eligible to sign up for one of these incredible opportunities that will allow you to experience service in the mission field. By participating in a LLU mission service trip, group members will be taking part in our global mission that enables participants to offer their humanitarian services and health care skillsets to communities throughout Belize and Honduras.

The deadline for these two trips is Friday, October 16 so sign up as soon as possible.  Click on the trip links below to learn more about each site and pricing. 

Belize

December 26, 2015 – January 3, 2016 

SIMS is excited to be returning to Belize, an English-speaking country that has an amazing diversity of cultures and people. This nation will leave you speechless as you experience its beauty from the Caribbean Sea shorelines, jungles and tropical rainforests, and rich Mayan culture, to the welcoming and warm Belizeans you will encounter. But there is more to this country than simply experiencing another part of the world. By being a part of a SIMS trip, students have the opportunity to partake in health fairs, health screenings, vacation Bible school activities, sharing the love of Jesus with children and families through worship and church programs, and so much more.

Pan American Health Services, Honduras

December 27, 2015 – January 3, 2016

For more than 10 years, LLU has been taking mission trips to Pan American Health Services (PAHS), a nutritional rehabilitation center for children under 5. This amazing trip allows participants to give back during the holiday season by spending time caring for, playing with, and loving the PAHS children. SIMS teams have also provided medical and dental clinics, mobile clinics to rural villages, health education programs, child therapy programs and more. To finish off the experience, students will also take part in a large Christmas and/or New Year’s fiesta.

If you would like to learn more about PAHS and see pictures of the children currently in rehabilitation, please visit their website at panamhealth.org.

To learn more about how you can be a part of SIMS and sign up today for your experience of a lifetime, visit lluglobal.com/SIMS.

 

 

]]>
Thu, 08 Oct 2015 13:47:24 -0700
4264:23571 <![CDATA[Last chance to complete Loma Linda University Health spiritual master plan survey]]> Contributed report Spirituality has undergirded the work at Loma Linda University Health throughout its 110-year history.

Currently, Gerald Winslow, PhD, vice president for mission and culture, is gathering information and ideas for the development of a spiritual master plan for Loma Linda University Health.  

Between now and December, Loma Linda University Health will be engaged in developing this plan for the next quinquennium (2016-2020). Since December is rapidly approaching, we would like to notify you that this is the final survey opportunity to provide your feedback and ideas for the spiritual master plan. 

President Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH, states, “Our intent is to move far beyond a simple measurement of events or criteria, to look deeply at the things that create spiritual values and yearnings for all, to see how much we can identify and codify these and to establish a template that can hopefully be useful at other institutions, as well.”

As leaders prepare this plan, they welcome feedback from all sectors of Loma Linda University Health. Please note that even if you participated in the previous survey that was sent out in July, feel free to submit any new ideas that enlightened you over the past few months. We are simply searching for the most transformative answers and ideas, and encourage all to share their vision and hope with us. 

You are invited to share your thoughts at this link: http://emg.wufoo.com/forms/z5uqhrq1jonn8g

Please take a few minutes to complete the short survey by the end of the workday, Monday, October 12. The information will be used by the spiritual plan steering committee in helping to shape the plan.

The committee members are Gerald Winslow, PhD, chair; Ron Carter, PhD, provost of Loma Linda University; Carla Gober-Park, PhD, MS, MPH, director, Center for Spiritual Life and Wholeness; Jim Greek, DMin, director of chaplain services, Loma Linda University Medical Center; Kathy McMillan, MA, director of employee spiritual care, Loma Linda University Medical Center; Jon Paulien, PhD, dean, School of Religion; Kevin Penington, student representative; Leo Ranzolin Jr., ThD, associate dean, School of Religion; Randy Roberts, DMin, senior pastor, Loma Linda University Church; Gilda Roddy, student representative; and Terry Swenson, DMin, chaplain of Loma Linda University.

]]>
Thu, 08 Oct 2015 11:17:08 -0700
4264:23562 <![CDATA[Students gather for Annual Convocation]]> Jiggs Gallagher Every seat in the church sanctuary was filled yesterday for the 2015 Annual Convocation, which launches the academic year at Loma Linda University.  New and returning students enjoyed the panoply of regalia and the expressions of spiritual emphasis that set the tone for the hour-long service. 

Following the procession of more than 140 faculty and administrators to the platform and wings, Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health, spoke on “Planned Spirituality?” It was a message which raised the question of how to instill spiritual growth in a student body made up of many faith traditions.

“The important thing to know is that we recognize every student, regardless of background, as equal in the sight of God,” said Hart, who then focused on the idea of developing a culture of service, including local and worldwide engagement in providing healing for those in need. 

He cited many graduates of Loma Linda University who are current missionaries in nations across Central America, Africa and Asia, who are living out a culture of service in their careers. “In doing so”, he added, “they would say they have found great satisfaction in their lives and careers by serving the needs of others.”

Faculty, staff, and student representatives then read statements of commitment for the coming school year, and Kerry Heinrich, CEO of the Loma Linda University Medical Center, read a blessing for the student body.

Provost Ronald Carter, PhD, told students the next time they would see their professors in academic regalia would be at graduation!

]]>
Thu, 08 Oct 2015 09:59:55 -0700
4264:23567 <![CDATA[Commerce Department awards $1.4 million grant to Loma Linda University Health]]> Susan Onuma The United States Commerce Department has awarded Loma Linda University Health more than $1.4 million in a grant for construction and infrastructure investments for the Loma Linda University Health -- San Bernardino Campus. The grant will be facilitated by the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA).

“Loma Linda University Health is a top medical facility and plays an important role in our regional economy, so to see federal funds going toward such an important economic driver for the Inland Empire is great news,” said U.S. Rep. Pete Aguilar (CA-31), of Redlands, who helped get the grant. He added, “It will allow us to invest in our workforce, improve local infrastructure and create new jobs.”

Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health, said the grant will be instrumental in building a new facility in downtown San Bernardino, which is scheduled to be completed in spring of 2016. “We are tremendously grateful to Rep. Aguilar’s efforts and to the Commerce Department for this support of our initiative to bring health care and education to those in need in the San Bernardino area.”

The grant for Loma Linda University Health is for $1,437,132 and will create new jobs in San Bernardino. The new San Manuel Gateway College will offer local high school students and recent graduates the opportunity to train for immediately entry-level jobs in the health-care industry, which is the fastest growing sector of the Inland Empire economy. 

In addition to the San Manuel Gateway College, which takes its name from the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, which made a $10 million gift toward its construction, LLUH -- San Bernardino will house the expanded SAC Health System (already the largest provider of Medi-Cal services in San Bernardino), and a vegetarian restaurant. The facility is expected to be completed in late spring, 2016.

]]>
Thu, 08 Oct 2015 10:21:18 -0700
4264:23462 <![CDATA[Fight cancer during Believe Walk]]> Heather Reifsnyder There is still a chance to register for the 2015 Believe Walk. The 8th annual walk is scheduled for this Sunday, Oct. 4, at 8 a.m.

Register Friday, Oct. 2, between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. at Pathway Church, 611 E. Cypress Ave., Redlands CA 92374. Visit BelieveIE.com for more information.

Those who sign up as part of the Loma Linda University Cancer Center’s “Tumornator” team can receive a free T-shirt (while supplies last). Stop by Mountain View Plaza, suite 165, Friday, Oct. 2, between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. to pick it up. Email Aline Leite at ALeite@llu.edu for more information.

The walk — presented by Stater Bros. Charities and Inland Women Fighting Cancer — benefits local cancer centers and cancer-fighting organizations. Since the walk began in 2008, it has raised more than $2.5 million, and a portion of the funds have gone to Loma Linda University Cancer Center.

From the 2014 walk, $175,000 was given to LLU Cancer Center to benefit its genetic screening program, which helps determine the best course of treatment for cancer but is not covered by insurance.

Patient testimonial

Jeanne Malcuit is a living testament to the care provided by the Cancer Center at Loma Linda University Health.

She was treated there for an aggressive form of breast cancer. “I was so lucky with every doctor that I’ve ever gotten at Loma Linda,” she says. “I just feel so blessed to have them.”

Cancer “takes everything away from you,” Malcuit says, but she refused to let it keep her down.

“I want to be the poster child for hope,” she says.

Malcuit shares how she took her life back in the video below. Get inspired and consider participating in the Believe Walk to give hope to other cancer patients.

 

]]>
Wed, 30 Sep 2015 17:03:59 -0700
4264:23468 <![CDATA[Video -- Internal medicine residency celebrates 50 years]]> Advancement films ]]> Hear some wisdom about whole person care at Loma Linda University Health in the words of physicians from the internal medicine residency program. This video was shown at the program’s recent anniversary gala. 

]]>
Wed, 30 Sep 2015 17:45:35 -0700
4264:23467 <![CDATA[Renderings finalized for new hospital towers]]> Briana Pastorino Construction is in full swing at Loma Linda University Health as demolition and dirt moving make way for the transformational vision of the organization, including a new adult hospital and a new Children’s Hospital tower.

Loma Linda University Health has released the official renderings for the new Loma Linda University Medical Center and Children’s Hospital towers, designed by NBBJ. The groundbreaking for the hospitals is scheduled for spring of next year.

California passed new seismic requirements for hospitals that mandate a new adult hospital by the year 2020.

“This has created a challenge that has been embraced as an opportunity to step forward in faith and an opportunity to build a new state-of-the-art hospital that best serves patients, medical staff and the students who train at Loma Linda University Health,” says Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president, Loma Linda University Health.

Slated for completion in December 2019, the new adult hospital and Children’s Hospital tower will meet the growing needs of the Inland Empire. While the total number of licensed beds will not be increasing, all of the rooms will be completely private, maximizing efficiency, utilization and quality of care.

The new adult hospital will have 288 licensed beds with a future capacity for 320; and the expanded Children’s Hospital will have a total of 349 licensed beds, which includes existing compliant beds, and will have a future capacity of 377. 

The new adult tower will be approximately 267 feet tall and the second tallest building in the Inland Empire.

In early August, demolition of old buildings on Prospect Avenue began, making way for the new hospital complex.

In addition to the planned hospitals, ground was broken for a new multilevel patient parking structure earlier this year on the corner of Campus Street and Barton Road, which will pave the way for the larger hospital project. Another parking structure will also break ground in late 2015 at the Faculty Medical Offices on Anderson Street.

In July 2014, Vision 2020: The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow was revealed as the organization’s largest endeavor in its 110-year history with an intent to raise $360 million.

Rachelle Bussell, senior vice president for advancement, announced recently that over half of the Vision 2020 campaign goal has been raised.

“In grateful thanks to the community and business leaders,” Bussell says, “we are pleased to share that over $194 million has been raised to date of the needed $360 million in philanthropic support for Vision 2020 projects.” 

The entire vision for the future will include capital expenditures of about $1.4 billion. Beyond the Vision 2020 philanthropic campaign, additional funding for health care will come from state grants, bond financing and cash flow from operations.

Concurrently, Vision 2020 is also raising funds to enhance scholarships, support research and expand the Wholeness Institute. Education and training for service are central to each of these plans for the future, as Loma Linda University Health lives out its mission to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ. 

]]>
Wed, 30 Sep 2015 17:35:01 -0700
4264:23464 <![CDATA[Primary care physicians now accepting new Medicare plans]]> Briana Pastorino More Medicare plans are being accepted at Loma Linda University Health. Primary care physicians are now accepting United Medicare plans and will be accepting SCAN as of Jan. 1, 2016, in addition to several other previously accepted plans.  

The primary care departments at Loma Linda University Health are devoted to caring for the community for a lifetime.

“We are excited to join with our patients on their life’s journey of health and wellness,” says Todd Martel, MD, MBA, vice president of clinical effectiveness/managed care faculty practice, Loma Linda University Health.

Loma Linda University Health will be offering free informational meetings and consultations throughout the community in the coming weeks (see flier attached below), leading up to the Medicare open enrollment period, which begins Oct. 15. Attendees can expect to learn about:

• Medicare Parts A, B, C and D

•  Benefits of multiple Medicare Advantage plans that will be accepted by Loma Linda University Health in 2016

•  All Medicare options (Supplements, Advantage, etc.) 

Over the past year, the departments of family medicine, general internal medicine, internal medicine/pediatrics and preventive medicine have banded together to strengthen primary care at Loma Linda University Health.

As a result, the primary care group is working together to enhance access to patients’ personal physicians and make Loma Linda University Health’s offices, phones, website and other services easy to use as the organization moves forward with a new focus to enhance patient satisfaction and accessibility.

For more information, visit lluprimarycare.com. To set up a private consultation or for accommodation of persons with special needs, call 909-558-6600.

]]>
Wed, 30 Sep 2015 17:14:09 -0700
4264:23460 <![CDATA[Employees to be affected by changes in patient parking]]> Major changes are coming to the campus of Loma Linda University Health, including a new hospital complex slated to open in 2020.

To prepare for campus transformation, parking access is changing for Loma Linda University Medical Center. 

Medical Center patients will no longer be able to park in lot A-Annex, which will become a construction zone.

Instead, lots J and J1 (by Ronald McDonald House) will be designated for additional patient parking.

Thus, employees can no longer park in J and J1. Employees with Medical Center permits are permitted to park in either structure on Campus Street.

The fine for parking in patient zones is $100. The only time employees are permitted to park in patient areas is when they or their family members are receiving medical care.

However, employees of the Faculty Medical Offices still have permission to park in J or J1 until further notice.

All employees, including night and weekend staff, must register their vehicles with the online parking system. Log in to review your parking options or to add a new vehicle, including rental vehicles. This can now be done from home or smartphone.

“We ask that you show compassion to our patients, who have far fewer parking options than employees,” says Cori Stiles, manager of rideshare, parking and traffic services.

“If you are unsure of where to park, please check your parking account or contact us. We will be happy to assist you.”

The office can be reached at 909-651-3025 or parking@llu.edu.

]]>
Wed, 30 Sep 2015 16:57:06 -0700
4264:23396 <![CDATA[Access changed to Medical Center and Children's Hospital]]> Every day hundreds of patients and guests walk through the front entrance of Loma Linda University Medical Center and Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital, and with each passing day they can see exciting changes being made as the campus transformation continues.

A new phase of the Loma Linda University Health campus transformation — building a new parking structure at the corner of Barton Road and Campus Street in order to prepare for construction of the new hospital — has begun. The new hospital, slated to open in 2020, will be located in the current patient parking lot east of the existing Medical Center and Children’s Hospital. 

Wednesday evening (Sept. 23), orange K-rails and construction fencing were adjusted to realign the new driveway lanes, which are for patient and visitor drop-off and valet drop-off zones ONLY.

Interim way-finding signs are in place, and additionally, Loma Linda University Health security and parking and traffic personnel are present to assist patients, visitors and valet parking.

All employees should coordinate drop-offs and pick-ups in employee-designated parking areas on the Campus Street side of the building to preserve the front entrance for guests and patients. The Loma Linda University Health employee drop-off zone is now redirected toward the outbound lane (closest to Anderson Street).

“We thank you in advance for your patience, understanding and assistance in mitigating the impacts of this construction to our patients, guests and staff,” says Eric Schilt from Medical Center construction management.

]]>
Thu, 24 Sep 2015 16:12:27 -0700
4264:23389 <![CDATA[Part three: How right were you?]]> Last week brought part three of “What do you know about Loma Linda University Health?” Featuring questions from the 2015 General Conference Session of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, held in San Antonio July 2-11, the questions covered an array of topics from health, history, research, dentistry and the Adventist Health Study.

Today the answers are revealed below in bold.

History:

The College of Medical Evangelist’s Los Angeles dispensary moved to its new location in 1918, several weeks before the Ellen G. White Memorial Hospital was dedicated.  Some predicted that the move would cause patronage to drop. Instead, the patient load doubled from 50 patients a day to 100.  How was this accomplished?

      A.   It became a free clinic.  They no longer charged for visits.
      B.   Medicines now were entirely free.
      C.   House calls.

Few medical colleges offered house calls — their patients came from referrals from hospitals. The College of Medical Evangelists (now Loma Linda University) didn’t have those connections in Los Angeles. But Dr. Larson, the medical director of the dispensary, developed other connections through what he called “out-call work.” The medical students and the medical evangelist classes made many friends for the institution and helped build an excellent reputation in the community.

 

Research:

Which of these are the most dangerous?

      A.   Single-rider all-terrain vehicles
      B.   Multi-rider all-terrain vehicles
      C.   Golf carts

Neither variety of ATV can be considered safe by any means, but the multi-rider units are far more dangerous. Despite looking more stable and secure, multi-rider all-terrain vehicles are 11 times more likely to be involved in accidents that require amputation than single-rider units. Avoid them like the plague!

 

Adventist Health Study:

In Adventist Health Study-1, what percentage of Adventist vegetarian females in California survived to 85 years of age?

      A.   60 percent
      B.   49 percent
      C.   41 percent 

Sixty percent of Adventist female vegetarians survived to 85 years. This was much higher than any other group survival rate in the world at that time. Vegetarian eating does make a difference to life expectancy. Increasing longevity of people in the world today is due in part to the discoveries made in the Adventist Health Studies.

           

Dentistry:

Americans spend $100 billion per year on hair care products. How much do they spend on dental care products?

      A.   $36 billion
      B.   $9 billion
      C.   $2 billion 

Americans spend about $2 billion on dental care products annually, only 2 percent of what they spend on hair care products annually.

 

Health:

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, children and adolescents should do how many minutes of physical activity each day?

      A.   30 minutes
      B.   60 minutes
      C.   90 minutes 

Children and adolescents should do 60 minutes (1 hour) or more of physical activity each day.

]]>
Thu, 24 Sep 2015 12:27:12 -0700
4264:23390 <![CDATA[Fall chapel schedule released]]> Heather Reifsnyder The university chaplains invite one and all from Loma Linda University Health to attend the weekly chapels held Wednesdays from 11 to 11:50 a.m. at Loma Linda University Church.

Is grace a scandal? The theme of the chapels this school year is just that: the scandal of grace. The chaplains explain:

“There is a gift that God has extended to humanity through His Son Jesus Christ, and it was, and continues to be, outrageous. Jesus' message rages against conventional wisdom because we live in a culture where justice is expected when a crime is committed. The message of Jesus, to the contrary, states that when a crime is committed, He pays the ultimate price of dying for us. We are not only set free from our sin, we are also enabled by His grace to play a part in His incredible plan and purpose of bringing His Kingdom to the earth.” 

Throughout the school year, chapel will journey through the book of John, often called the "love gospel" or the "gospel of love," to discover, analyze and understand how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ.

The fall quarter schedule of speakers and topics is thus:

Sept. 30 – School chapels
Oct. 7 – LLU convocation 

Week of Renewal – “The Sandal of Grace”
Oct. 12 – Terry Swenson
Oct. 13 – Dilys Brooks
Oct. 14 – K.C. Hohensee
Oct. 15 – Dilys Brooks
Oct. 16 – Dilys Brooks 

Oct. 21 – Chris Oberg
Oct. 28 – Carla Gober
Nov. 4 – LLU Sings
Nov. 11 – Samantha Peralta
Nov. 18 – Elizabeth Talbot

]]>
Thu, 24 Sep 2015 13:03:42 -0700
4264:23392 <![CDATA[Notice of office closure]]> Courtney Haas The office of talent management services has announced a brief closure that will take place Friday, Sept. 25, from 12 to 2 p.m. The office will be closed due to a staff meeting.

Charlene Wilson, MPA, assistant vice president of talent management services at Loma Linda University Health, explains, “Talent management services will spend this time participating in team-building activities. As someone once said, the strength of the team lies in the individual, and the strength of the individual is in the team.”

During this two-hour period, the front lobby will remain open to visitors and employees who need assistance from other departments within the LLUAHSC 101 building, located at 101 E. Redlands Boulevard in San Bernardino. 

]]>
Thu, 24 Sep 2015 13:09:22 -0700
4264:23346 <![CDATA[Join in 21 Days of Prayer ]]> The summer quarter is at an end, and the fall quarter, which heralds the beginning of the 2015-2016 school year, is a mere two weeks away. The Loma Linda University chaplains would like to invite one and all to join with them for the next 21 days in praying for Loma Linda University Health, new faculty and staff members, and new and returning students.

This period of prayer serves as an opportunity to spend time as a corporate body in reflection and intercession for the hospitals, schools, departments, administrators, employees and all people who serve Loma Linda University Health.

“We have each accepted the call to serve our patients, students, local community and essentially the world as we continue to do the work that this university was founded to accomplish,” says Dilys Brooks, MDiv, associate campus chaplain,  “to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ.

“There are many challenges that lay ahead of us this year, and is fitting that we prepare for the task, together in prayer,” she concludes.

This time of prayer begins today, Thursday, Sept. 17, and concludes on Wednesday, Oct. 7.

Each day the prayer focus will be appear on the MyLLU portal. On the 21st day, Oct. 7, a prayer will also be made during the annual fall convocation ceremony, which will take place from 11 to 11:50 a.m. at Loma Linda University Church.  

Day one’s focus states this:

Scripture: “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” –Psalm 51:10

Reflection: A heart that truly wants to change is a heart that is ready for the renewal that only God’s Spirit can bring. Only God can revive, renew and restore our souls as we embark upon this time of prayer.

Focus: Pray today for God to forgive your sins and give you a clean heart.

Intercession: Pray for our Loma Linda University Health community as we begin this fourteen days of prayer that we can remain committed to the process of growing and seeking God together.

 

]]>
Thu, 17 Sep 2015 13:59:42 -0700
4264:23333 <![CDATA[Notes from the President -- Our involvement in Africa]]> Dr. Richard Hart   September 2015
Connecting, consulting, contributing in Africa

I have just returned, with a number of Loma Linda University Health colleagues, from two weeks in Africa. We held Global Healthcare Conferences in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire, for West African countries, and in Lusaka, Zambia, for east and central Africa. They were four days each, with several hundred participants attending from some 25 different countries.

This is part of Loma Linda’s international commitment to continue to upgrade Richard Hart outdoor shot” align=“right” hspace=Seventh-day Adventist health care throughout the world. We have settled into a pattern of having a conference here at Loma Linda every even year, and a regional one somewhere in the world on the odd years, though the demand for learning and connectedness may impact that schedule.

With 54 recognized countries, Africa has 1.2 billion people, slightly fewer than China or India, and constitutes 15 percent of the world’s population. But more significantly, it is our youngest continent, with 50 percent of the population under 20 years of age. The burden this places on health care and education is enormous. While it is one of the richest continents in natural resources, it has been plagued through the years by economic pillaging, civil unrest and corruption. It continues to be one of the poorest regions of the world, with the population of sub-Saharan Africa subsisting on an average of one dollar per day and many national budgets committing less than $10 per person per year for health care.

Despite these challenges, the spirit of Africa is contagious, one of hope and collaboration. Great cities are arising across the continent, while the scourge of HIV/AIDS is starting to wane. But the “missing generation,” those parents who have died of AIDS, means that grandmothers are caring for many grandchildren, with limited resources and ability to educate and care for them. The traditional African custom of sharing and caring for others often spreads this burden across the entire village and beyond. This has been effective when there are villages, in the rural areas, but it is less helpful in the growing slums around the large cities.

Within this milieu, the Adventist Church is growing rapidly and provides valuable developmental tools. The nearly 6.5 million members in sub-Saharan Africa constitute one-third of the total church members in the world, meeting in 24,000 individual church groups. We also “Zambiaoperate 25 hospitals, from old, rambling rural mission hospitals to modern city-based facilities. Loma Linda University alumni started and manned many of these places for generations, with some now buried in the overgrown cemeteries on each campus. There can be no question that our collective impact has saved millions of lives and brought hope, and a chance at development, to thousands. But as medical technology is forcing rapid and costly changes in health care, the big question is — can we keep up? Does our business model of the past, largely dependent on missionaries and donations, work into the future? Unfortunately, we have not created attractive working environments for the growing number of young Adventist professionals in each country who now have choices on where and for whom to work.

These are the issues we discussed in our conferences. How do we obtain and maintain modern medical equipment when the power is intermittent and there are no technicians around? How do we maintain accurate financial statements when computers and software are still being mastered? How do we manage increasingly complex institutions within the old ecclesiastical model of decision making within the church? Young professionals, both nationals and those from abroad, need and want solid governance and management of their institutions if they are going to grow their careers within church institutions. They already have enough challenges to practice their professions effectively without the addition of a perceived lack of support from their leaders.

So this is what we do, and did, on this trip. Loma Linda University Health created an organization called Adventist Health International 17 years ago as our vehicle for helping these institutions around the world. We coordinate logistical support, sending equipment, technicians, volunteers and donations. We strengthen governing boards, establish management protocols and seek to create national systems that can build on each other’s assets.“Ivory It is immensely gratifying to watch these systems come together and start to develop hope in the future. Both Malawi and Zambia are now on the verge of creating national Adventist health systems, with three hospitals each that will once again be strong and provide quality health care.

But many challenges remain. The immense North African countries, beginning with the northernmost boundary of Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya and Egypt, have hardly been penetrated with Christian health care. Even the next ring of countries — Mauritania, Mali, Niger, Chad, and Sudan — have very little Western presence despite massive health care needs. Most of these countries are largely Muslim and despite security risks, are open to health professionals providing assistance. But even as I write, we are having to evacuate our health care professionals and volunteers from Chad due to security threats from both Boko Haram to the south and al-Qaida in the Lands of the Islamic Maghreb to the north. This means the incredible work that James and Sarah Appel started — and now carried on by Olen and Danae Netteburg, Rollin and Dolores Bland, and Scott and Bekki Gardner, along with many volunteers — may temporarily be on hiatus, waiting for the signal to return. The commitment of these folks, and their reluctance to leave even under these circumstances, is admirable to the max.

“Lisnett”

The final memorable event of our recent trip was celebrating the centennial birthday of Malamulo Hospital in Malawi. This is truly the granddaddy of mission hospitals, beginning as a primary school in 1902, and adding a clinic in 1915. Malamulo has an amazing storied history and is a name known throughout Malawi and beyond. Thirty-six LLU medical alumni have served there through the years, with scores more coming as short-term volunteers. A highlight of the ceremony was the testimony of Lisnett Chipyoza, who started working at Malamulo in 1925 as a 19-year-old, later becoming a nurse midwife. Do the math — she is now 109 — and after urging the crowd to remember that Jesus is coming, she sang “Sweet Hour of Prayer” in a strong, clear voice. Loma Linda has no corner on the principles that led to our city’s recognition as a Blue Zone.®

Click here to see her sing the song and explain why she loves it.

Loma Linda has designated Malamulo as its first field station, using it for faculty research, resident rotations and student training. Its 200 beds and increasingly sophisticated clinical services provide an ideal opportunity to grow professionals with an understanding of the needs of the majority world. With all major medical specialties covered, Malamulo now provides a surgical residency for Africans through PAACS (Pan African Academy of Christian Surgeons) and plans to add a family medicine residency soon. It also offers Malawi’s first Women’s Center, providing Pap smears, colposcopy and treatment protocols. This is in addition to the well-established Malamulo College of Health Sciences, which offers training programs in nursing, medical assisting, laboratory technology and for clinical officers. It is indeed a privilege for Loma Linda to be identified with Malamulo, and we look forward to even more collaboration and innovations in the future.

This trip showed Loma Linda at its best — connecting, consulting, contributing — in meaningful ways. Thank you to all our alumni who have developed this culture of serving the world. It makes us all immensely gratified and proud.

Cordially yours,

 

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health 

Vision 2020: The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow

 

Blue Zone® is a registered trademark of Blue Zones, LLC, and refers to a place in the world where residents have greater longevity. The community of Loma Linda was designated a Blue Zone by Dan Buettner, author of “The Blue Zones: 9 Lessons for Living Longer from the People Who’ve Lived the Longest.”

Copyright © 2015 by Loma Linda University

llu.edu

]]>
Wed, 16 Sep 2015 17:58:40 -0700
4264:23343 <![CDATA[It's time to plant Seeds of Hope ]]> Heather Reifsnyder The 8th annual Seeds of Hope dinner for the Behavioral Medicine Center at Loma Linda University Health is sure to inspire, while breaking down stigma about mental illness and providing hope for individuals struggling with mental health and addiction. 

The event is scheduled for Wednesday, Oct. 7, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Wong Kerlee International Conference Center in Coleman Pavilion.

After arriving, guests will be invited to walk through a youth patient art exhibit that provides a glimmer into what young patients experience as they go through treatment and as they resume a healthy life afterward. This portion of the program will be set to music and also allow guests to learn more about how pet therapy is integrated into the programs at the Behavioral Medicine Center.

The program and dinner will begin at 6 p.m. A highlight of the program will take place when former adolescent patient Marcela Ontiveros shares her inspiring story of finding hope and continued recovery at the Behavioral Medicine Center. Additionally, her family will participate with her in the program, and her parents will share how the experience helped save their marriage.

The dinner is free but space is limited. Reservations must be made by Monday, Sept. 28, with Tiffanie Engle by calling 909-558-3555 or emailing tengle@llu.edu.

“This mission-driven event will focus on educating the community on mental illness and addiction, as well as raising support for programs and services available at the Behavioral Medicine Center,” says Edward Field, MBA, vice president and administrator for the Behavioral Medicine Center.

Funds raised at the dinner will support programs and services offered at the Behavioral Medicine Center, as well as provide scholarship funds for individuals who do not have access to insurance to cover needed treatment.

“Above all, we want people to come and find out about the great programs offered at the Behavioral Medicine Center,” Field says.

This is the first year for the dinner to be held at Wong Kerlee International Conference Center. Park on the third floor of the parking garage at 11206 Campus Street.

 

]]>
Thu, 17 Sep 2015 13:30:31 -0700
4264:23336 <![CDATA[Part 3: What do you know about Loma Linda University Health?]]> Courtney Haas It is time to test your knowledge for a third time with these exciting and informative quiz questions brought to you from the recent Loma Linda exhibit at the General Conference Session of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

So put on your thinking caps and test your knowledge with the questions below. Be sure to check back next week to see the correct answers and learn how much you know about Loma Linda University Health.

 

History:

The College of Medical Evangelist’s Los Angeles dispensary moved to its new location in 1918, several weeks before the Ellen G. White Memorial Hospital was dedicated.  Some predicted that the move would cause patronage to drop. Instead, the patient load doubled from 50 patients a day to 100.  How was this accomplished?

      A.   It became a free clinic.  They no longer charged for visits. 

      B.   Medicines now were entirely free.

      C.   House calls.

 

Research:

Which of these are the most dangerous?

      A.   Single-rider all-terrain vehicles

      B.   Multi-rider all-terrain vehicles

      C.   Golf carts

 

Adventist Health Study:

In Adventist Health Study-1, what percentage of Adventist vegetarian females in California survived to 85 years of age?

      A.   60 percent

      B.   49 percent

      C.   41 percent

           

Dentistry:

Americans spend $100 billion per year on hair care products. How much do they spend on dental care products?

      A.   $36 billion

      B.   $9 billion

      C.   $2 billion

 

Health:

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, children and adolescents should do how many minutes of physical activity each day?

      A.   30 minutes

      B.   60 minutes

      C.   90 minutes

 

]]>
Thu, 17 Sep 2015 10:34:00 -0700
4264:23335 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It - Stay focused]]> Courtney Haas No matter what role you’re fulfilling at the time, whether at work, home or just out and about enjoying the world, it is important to know that you can stay focused when it really counts. 

The Loma Linda University Health health library features an article titled “Ability to Concentrate Isn’t What It Used to Be.” This article offers tips for giving your concentration skills a simple tune-up. 

Studies have been conducted over time to show that attention spans are dissipating and one of the main causes is thought to be in correlation to watching too much television. A typical show runs seven minutes before it cuts to a commercial break. This is the same length of time that experts say children possess the ability to concentrate. This is just enough time to hold your focus and then redirect your attention to a new stimulation.  

Here are a few ideas on how to fix this. By addressing these issues you might find it easier to maintain concentration for longer periods of time.

  • First things first, stop watching so much television.
  • Attempt to get more sleep – the CDC recommends seven to nine hours of sleep for teenagers and adults and even more for children.
  • Avoid stimulants – caffeine is always the quick pick-me-up when focus is slipping away, but the reality is that even this quick fix lasts only a short time.
  • Know what you are eating – high-fat meals are more likely to make you feel sluggish because they affect your brain negatively.
  • Keep your cool – try to stay calm and relaxed by taking breaks throughout the day. Regroup mentally and find a way to center on what you are doing. 
]]>
Thu, 17 Sep 2015 10:33:00 -0700
4264:23325 <![CDATA[Vision 2020 in 79 seconds]]>

]]>
Learn about more about Vision 2020 by viewing this commercial. 

Vision 2020 is a $360 million philanthropic campaign supporting Loma Linda University Health’s comprehensive vision for the future through four priority areas: education, clinical care, research and wholeness. “Vision 2020: The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow,” supports the construction of the new adult hospital and expanded Children’s Hospital, while also strengthening the future of education, research and wholeness at Loma Linda University Health. Visit lluhvision2020.org for more information.

 

]]>
Wed, 16 Sep 2015 14:51:51 -0700
4264:22969 <![CDATA[Tip for Living It -- Know your stress response]]> Heather Reifsnyder Recognition that there’s a problem is necessary before fixing it. In a rushed world, stress is part of most people’s lives, and it may be showing up in ways unrealized. 

To understand how stress might affect you, take this test in Loma Linda University Health’s online health library. The test is a checklist of symptoms that may be due to stress.

“Recognizing how you react to stress is an important step toward managing it,” notes the article.

In addition to common signs of stress such as a pounding heart or sweaty palms, lesser-known symptoms of stress exist, such as driving recklessly, feeling confused or making errors.

After going through the checklist, see the tips that follow for lowering stress. The article also recommends keeping a log to note symptoms of stress and any possible causes. 

These symptoms could also be the result of other conditions, and this assessment does not replace a visit with a health care professional. However, the checklist may make you aware of a problem, thus creating a starting point for its solution.

]]>
Thu, 10 Sep 2015 14:37:42 -0700
4264:22977 <![CDATA[Loma Linda co-hosts conferences in Africa]]> Courtney Haas The Global Healthcare Conference finished strongly in Africa last week. Attendees from all over the continent joined together to learn and share from each other as they discussed common challenges encountered in running mission hospitals.

The annual conference began in 2012 and is a collaborative effort of Loma Linda University Health, Adventist Health International and the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists department of health ministries. It is held every other year at Loma Linda, while in the alternating years it takes place at different sites around the world. Two years ago, it took place in the Dominican Republic.

For 2015, the Global Healthcare Conference took place at two locations in Africa. 

The first session, held in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast), from Aug. 28-31, had nearly 110 attendees participating throughout the event.

During the second session, Sept. 2-5, attendees from the surrounding areas formed a cohesive group in Lusaka, Zambia. With nearly 100 attendees each day, the conference proved to be a success with groups from Zambia, Zimbabwe, Malawi and many more locations.  

The focus this year was developing infrastructure to support and sustain healthy hospitals. A major theme was collaboration between hospitals, dealing with topics such as governance and strategies for quality and financial improvement. 

“By working together, we can improve the way health care is administered at mission hospitals throughout the world,” says Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health and Adventist Health International. “At Loma Linda we have a commitment to improving global health through mission service and outreach.” 

Through interactive sessions at the two conferences in Africa, hospital personnel experienced collective learning and development opportunities for creating practical plans to be strategically applied at each institution represented.

Peter Landless, MB, Bch, MMed, director of the health ministries department at the General Conference, shared his opinion this year after participating as a speaker at both the Abidjan and Lusaka conferences.

He said, “This conference went extremely well and has been a wonderful opportunity to share information between such dedicated teams of health workers.

“It is the beginning of what I hope to be many opportunities for General Conference health ministries, Adventist Health International and Loma Linda University Health to continue to work together.”

]]>
Thu, 10 Sep 2015 14:53:26 -0700
4264:22975 <![CDATA[Faculty colloquium to feature expert in health professions education]]> Heather Reifsnyder All faculty members are encouraged to attend Loma Linda University’s annual faculty colloquium Thursday, Sept. 17. It will take place at the Centennial Complex from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

The day’s main speaker will be Alan Leichtner, MD, MSHPE, of Harvard University, Boston Children’s Hospital and the Massachusetts General Hospital Institute of Health Professions.

“Our teaching practices will be enriched through Dr. Leichtner’s presentations,” says Ron Carter, PhD, provost of Loma Linda University. “He is a leader in the field of health professions education. I invite all faculty members to attend.”

Leichtner will give three talks throughout the day:

• “Communities of Practice in Education: Design and Assessment of a Teaching Academy”

• “Mentoring and Being Mentored” and

• “Engaging and Assessing Students and Trainees through Active Learning.”

Additionally, Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health, will present a state-of-the-university address.

The day’s other speakers include Kent Denmark, MD, director, LLU Medical Simulation Center and Center for Interprofessional Education; James Pappas, MD, associate dean, LLU School of Medicine; and Ron Carter, PhD, provost of Loma Linda University.

All faculty members have received registration information in their email accounts. Registration is required for the luncheon.

]]>
Thu, 10 Sep 2015 14:50:58 -0700
4264:22973 <![CDATA[ICD-10 transition fast approaches]]> The biggest little change in health care is almost here – ICD-10.

After almost 40 years of using ICD-9, the health care industry in the United States will transition to an ICD-10 code set effective Oct. 1, 2015. That is only a couple of weeks away.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has mandated that all health care providers, payers and clearing houses comply with the ICD-10 code sets, which give a more accurate description of current medical practices than outdated ICD-9 codes. Outpatient procedure codes will remain the same.

“ICD-10 offers us an opportunity to document and code with more specificity. Detailed documentation leads to a more thorough patient history, improved quality reporting and reimbursement that accurately reflects the patient care we have provided,” Loma Linda University Medical Center CEO Kerry L. Heinrich, JD, says in an ICD-10 introduction video.

The “ICD-10 Why?” video was produced at Loma Linda University Health as part of a comprehensive training program for thousands of staff members. However, it is also available for all employees to view on the ICD-10 webpage on VIP.

While ICD-10 will affect staff in different ways, everyone at Loma Linda University Health is responsible for providing quality health care.

ICD-10 is a standard diagnostic tool for all health management purposes. It converts a patient’s diagnosis into a coded global language. In the United States, ICD (International Classification of Diseases) is also used to connect health care data to reimbursement. Since ICD-9 was introduced in the U.S., patient diagnoses and treatment have become much more complex.

“With ICD-10, physicians will be able to document and code in a way that provides a more complete picture of their patient’s condition,” says Ricardo Peverini, MD, president of Loma Linda University Faculty Medical Group. “By including the key aspects of the patient’s disease, injury and progression, we are better able to coordinate that patient’s care across different providers and over time.”

Besides reflecting current medical practices, ICD-10 gives health care providers, researchers and population health professionals a better way to track diseases.

“The goal is to improve health outcomes here at Loma Linda and across the nation,” says Francis Chan, MD, medical informatics liaison officer at Loma Linda University Health.

The increased specificity of ICD-10 does mean the code set has expanded. The structural changes of ICD-10 dramatically increase the code volume, from about 18,000 codes in ICD-9 to more than 140,000 procedure and diagnosis codes in ICD-10. More than one-third of the expansion of ICD-10 codes is due to the addition of laterality.

Clinicians will need to document the necessary information to support the expanded coding. This should occur naturally, during the physicians’ discovery process in speaking with their patients. Then, they will simply document what they are told. This will help clarify how sick a patient is and also support the clinician’s treatment.

Because this transition impacts every physician, department or staff member who assigns, receives, analyzes or uses ICD-9 codes, Loma Linda University Health has developed a comprehensive training program. Teams were assembled to address the impact across the health system. A cross-functional group of individuals has developed physician and non-physician specific training, which is going on now throughout Loma Linda University Heath. 

“We believe that the preparations and provisions of resources will ensure our readiness because specificity does count when it comes to capturing quality documentation,” says Brenda Taylor, executive director of health information management for Loma Linda University Health.

Selected learners have received emails regarding training courses based on their specific professions. Besides the electronic courses, other tools to help with the ICD-10 transition have been developed. They include more than 200documentation specificity guides for physicians, LLEAP physician tip sheets, dual coding practice and EMR diagnosis links.

Those resource materials, along with the ICD-10 introduction video, can be accessed on VIP.

Specificity counts. Let’s be ready.

For more information on ICD-10, visit the ICD-10 VIP page.

 

 

]]>
Thu, 10 Sep 2015 14:46:22 -0700
4264:22810 <![CDATA[Inspiring words from a child who survived cancer]]> Nine-year-old Kimie Metcalf likes racing cars, playing at playgrounds and helping people with blood cancer. To that last end, she has lobbied U.S. Congress representatives on behalf of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society’s local chapter, among other achievements.

In honor of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month and Blood Cancer Awareness Month — both in September — watch this video of her story of surviving leukemia thanks to treatment at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital, and learn how she inspires others.

http://lomalindahealth.org/childrens-hospital/about-us/foundation/news-and-events/videos/kimie-story.page

]]>
Thu, 03 Sep 2015 11:18:50 -0700
4264:22812 <![CDATA[Congressman tours LLU Children's Hospital]]> Briana Pastorino U.S. Rep. Pete Aguilar, California 31st district, visited Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital for a tour Aug. 27. The former Redlands mayor, elected to Congress in 2014, was guided through the hospital by various physicians who highlighted the types of care provided by Children’s Hospital — the only dedicated pediatric hospital in the Inland Empire.

“This was an opportunity for our district representative to see the specialized services we provide to the children in the region,” says Richard Chinnock, MD, physician-in-chief of Children’s Hospital, who also hosted the tour. “Rep. Aguilar is very committed to our kids and assuring the success of health care.”

Douglas Deming, MD, chair of neonatology, walked Aguilar through the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), which is the largest and only level-three designated NICU in the Inland Empire region. The 84-bed unit treats the most critically ill infants and is equipped to provide the highest level of care for the most complex disorders. The unit also includes the neuro NICU, providing specialized services to neurologically impaired babies or those at high risk for neurologic impairment.

Aguilar also toured the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU), led by Shamel Abd-Allah, MD, chief of pediatric critical care. The PICU is a 25-bed tertiary care unit dedicated exclusively to the specialized medical and surgical needs of critically ill children from birth through adolescence. The PICU at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital has been serving patients from across the four-county Inland Empire region for over 25 years.

Infant heart transplantation pioneer and surgeon-in-chief at Children’s Hospital Leonard Bailey, MD, gave Aguilar an overview of the pediatric cardiac care unit, which was recently named after Bailey. The pediatric cardiac care team specializes in heart valve repairs, repairing severe congenital defects. In addition to the tour, Bailey presented Aguilar with a personalized white coat and surgical tools.

Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital remains at the forefront of research, education, technology and cutting-edge surgical techniques.

]]>
Thu, 03 Sep 2015 11:22:13 -0700
4264:22819 <![CDATA['Grow Together' goes digital]]> As of Aug. 31, employees now have an easier way to manage their voluntary donations to Loma Linda University Health. Set up or change payroll deductions to the Grow Together employee giving campaign by visiting PeoplePortal.

Employees can designate how much they give, how frequently, and what program or entity at Loma Linda University Health they want to support.

Detailed instructions on enrolling and managing deductions through PeoplePortal can be found in the downloadable attachment below.

The old forms for setting up payroll deductions are still available on the Grow Together website or from the office of alumni and donor relations. Once filled out, they can be faxed to 909-558-3537 or emailed to growtogether@llu.edu.

Why give? In the words of one employee named Eric, “I give back because I believe in the mission of this institution.” View more giving testimonials at advancement.lluhealth.org/grow-together/impact-stories.

]]>
Thu, 10 Sep 2015 11:55:00 -0700
4264:22804 <![CDATA[Office closures tomorrow]]> Heather Reifsnyder Labor Day weekend will be a four-day holiday for many administrative and support offices of Loma Linda University Health.

This means that Friday, Sept. 4, a number of offices will be closed in addition to the normal Monday holiday.

This applies to Loma Linda University Medical Center (including East Campus and Surgical Hospital), Children’s Hospital, Behavioral Medicine Center and Shared Services.

Impacted services include shuttles and mail pickup and delivery. However, security officers will still patrol.

Clinical departments will retain their normal holiday schedules and staffing.

Best wishes for a meaningful and safe holiday weekend from Loma Linda University Health.

 

]]>
Thu, 03 Sep 2015 11:02:45 -0700
4264:22807 <![CDATA[Web center begins new website rollouts ]]> Heather Reifsnyder Looking ahead, the websites for Loma Linda University Health will display a comprehensive new look. To get ready for this, the Web center is taking the interim step of switching to an improved content management system called Drupal.

This system will make the organization’s websites easier to maintain, allow for simplified user navigation and provide a mobile-friendly design update. At the same time, the Web center will engage business partners to assist in an initial cleansing of outdated and inaccurate information.

Follow the progress at the Web center’s new blog, found at webcenter.lluh.org

“We are excited about these changes and the positive impact it will have on our patients, students and community. Thank you for your patience and continued support as we improve our organizational Web presence,” says Jack Rose, executive director of the Web center. “I look forward to seeing you on the blog.”

He adds, “I’d also like to acknowledge the hard work of the Web center team in making this happen.” 

Below is the schedule of websites to be rolled out in the remainder of 2015.

]]>
Thu, 03 Sep 2015 11:09:16 -0700
4264:22724 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- Wash your hands, more than you already do]]> Courtney Haas Many people are familiar with the idea that a little dirt in your life helps to build up your immune system. But right along with that notion is the proven fact that handwashing is important. It does not matter if you are at home or at work, germs are everywhere throughout the day, and one of the best ways to fight these germs is to wash your hands properly.

An article on the Loma Linda University Health Health Library features the importance of handwashing and breaks it down into the following questions.

What is the best way to wash hands?

The best way to wash your hands is to do so often. Make sure you use clean, running, warm water whenever possible and apply soap to hands after moistening the skin. By applying a thick lather of soap up to the wrists and removing dirt from beneath your nails you will get the cleanest results when finished rinsing and drying.

How often should I wash my hands?

Essentially hands should be washed frequently — more often than most people do. The CDC recommends washing hands when involved in any of the following activities: preparing food, eating meals, treating injuries, going to the restroom, playing with animals or cleaning up after them, changing diapers or cleaning children, blowing your nose, couching or sneezing, taking out the trash, getting dirty, or when you in proximity to someone who is ill.

When you look at this list, it is easy to see how often we should be washing our hands throughout the day. Bacteria and germs are everywhere. So take the initiative and wash those germs down the drain.

For more tips on the best way to stay clean and wash your hands, be sure to read the full list of handwashing tips.

]]>
Thu, 27 Aug 2015 11:54:27 -0700
4264:22722 <![CDATA[LLU Medical Center becomes first in area to offer breakthrough device for mitral valve disease]]> Briana Pastorino Loma Linda University Medical Center recently became the first hospital in the Inland Empire and Orange County to offer percutaneous mitral valve repair using MitraClip® Device, manufactured by Abbott Vascular Laboratories. As the first transcatheter mitral valve therapy approved by the FDA for select patients suffering from mitral regurgitation, MitraClip is a minimally invasive treatment option for patients in whom comorbidities and high risk would exclude them from traditional mitral valve surgery.

“We are proud to be the pioneer center in the Inland Empire to offer minimally invasive mitral valve repair using MitraClip to our patients,” says Ramin Assadi, MD, an interventional cardiologist and the director of percutaneous mitral valve therapies at Loma Linda University Medical Center. “MitraClip system is a cutting-edge technology available for carefully selected patients that can improve heart failure symptoms by reducing mitral regurgitation, causing favorable left ventricular remodeling and a significant reduction in hospitalizations due to heart failure, ultimately improving the patient’s quality of life."

The first MitraClip procedures at LLU Medical Center were completed in July, both successfully. The patients reported immediate improvement of their heart failure symptoms.  

The cardiac team that performed the first MitraClip procedures consisted of interventional cardiologists Ramin Assadi, MD, Islam Abudayyeh, MD, and Brent Gordon, MD; interventional echocardiographer Ramesh Bansal, MD; and cardiothoracic surgeons Rosario Floridia, MD, and Nahidh Hasaniya, MD, PhD. Also involved with the procedure was the cardiac anesthesia team, including Ryan Lauer, MD, and Carin Mascetti, MD.

MitraClip repairs the mitral valve without the need for invasive surgery. The device is delivered to the heart through the femoral vein (a blood vessel in the leg), and once implanted, creates a double opening of the mitral valve with a more efficient closure of the valve. This then reduces the mitral valve insufficiency, allowing the heart to pump blood more efficiently, thereby relieving symptoms and improving patient quality of life.

The MitraClip procedure has a 95 percent success rate. Patients undergoing MitraClip treatment typically experience short recovery times and short hospital stays of less than three days.

For information on this program, please contact the structural heart program coordinator at 909-558-7717.

]]>
Thu, 27 Aug 2015 11:49:33 -0700
4264:22719 <![CDATA[SAC Health System granted important status by federal government]]> Jiggs Gallagher SAC Health System, the largest independent provider of Medi-Cal services in the Inland Empire, has been granted full “330 designation” by the U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration. 

The practical significance of this designation is that it allows SAC Health System to apply for important grants and will result in tuition reimbursement for staff members’ continuing education, according to President/CEO Nancy Young.  

SAC Health System began as an outreach to the community by Loma Linda University students and faculty in the 1960s, and the organization maintains ties with Loma Linda University Health today.

“The timing of this designation is perfect,” Young says, “as we prepare to move into our new, expanded space at Loma Linda University Health – San Bernardino.”  

The opening of this new facility, which will be located at 250 South G Street next to the I-215 freeway, is scheduled for next year. To learn more about the facility, visit lomalindauniversityhealth.org/sanbernardino. It will also house the San Manuel Gateway College and a vegetarian restaurant.

In October, SAC Health System will celebrate 20 years at its current location on the former Norton Air Force Base in San Bernardino.

]]>
Thu, 27 Aug 2015 11:44:38 -0700
4264:22717 <![CDATA[Loma Linda University Health leads Southern California in liver transplant survival]]> Larry Kidder Patients receiving a liver transplant at Loma Linda University Health have the best chance of survival for all programs in Southern California and the second-best in all of California, according to recent numbers released by the Scientific Registry of Transplant Recipients — better known as SRTR.

SRTR is the organization tasked by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services with compiling these and other statistics related to transplantation. The recent numbers placed the Transplantation Institute at 94.44 percent survival after one year (source: SRTR.org).

Michael de Vera, MD, director of the Transplantation Institute, calls these latest statistics very encouraging: “It tells us that our efforts over the last five years are paying off.”

Surgeons at the Transplantation Institute have performed more than 500 liver transplant surgeries to date. The first such transplant at Loma Linda University Health was performed in 1993.

There are some key differences between the Transplantation Institute at Loma Linda and other similar centers around the country, and de Vera believes these have contributed to the organization’s success.  

“All physicians and 50-plus staff members of our institute are physically located in one place,” de Vera points out.  “This allows us to work in unison toward our goals and provide more coordinated care, in addition to being more convenient for patients.”

The Transplantation Institute also shares the Loma Linda concept of “whole person care,” providing extensive counseling on diet and healthy lifestyle, as well as organizing support groups for patients and their caregivers in an environment that welcomes each person’s spirituality and individuality.

The transplant surgery team, in addition to de Vera, consists of Pedro Baron, MD; Philip Wai, MD; and Arputharaj Kore, MD.  

Four hepatologists provide pre-transplant and post-transplant care. This group includes Lydia Aye, MD; Jason Cheng, MD; and Khaled Selim, MD, and is led by Michael Volk, MD, MSc, who is also chief of gastroenterology. They look forward to a fifth member, Mina Rakoski, MD, who will join them in October.

In addition to the surgeons and hepatologists, the Transplantation Institute team includes clinical directors, nurse coordinators, social workers, transplant assistants, financial coordinators, dietitians, pharmacists and others. 

“Our staff are critical to our success,” Volk adds. “It takes a team to care for each of our patients and we are committed to their welfare.”

Another important feature of the liver transplant program is the focus on community outreach. “We have a number of clinics that help us serve a wider area,” Volk explains. “Our surgeons and hepatologists travel to these clinics, where we meet our patients and interact with their communities.”

Outreach clinics in Southern California are centered in Rancho Cucamonga, Glendale and Murrieta. A fourth clinic is located in Las Vegas, Nevada. A fifth is under consideration in East Los Angeles.

The Transplantation Institute oversees adult and pediatric heart transplants, adult liver transplants, adult and pediatric kidney transplants, adult pancreatic transplants and pediatric bone marrow transplants. Combination transplants are performed as needed, including kidney/pancreas, liver/kidney, liver/pancreas, and heart/kidney. 

Appointments can be scheduled by calling 1-844-LIVER-LL.

]]>
Thu, 27 Aug 2015 11:41:37 -0700
4264:22721 <![CDATA[Respond now: deadline approaches to complete employee commuter survey]]> Heather Reifsnyder The annual state-mandated Air Quality Management District commuter survey is underway for employees of the following entities at Loma Linda University Health:

  • Loma Linda University Medical Center
  • Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital
  • University Health Care
  • Loma Linda University Shared Services
  • Loma Linda University Medical Center East Campus
  • Loma Linda University Surgical Hospital
  • Loma Linda–Inland Empire Consortium for Healthcare Education

Individuals employed by these Loma Linda entities must complete the survey by Sept. 4 to help Loma Linda University Health fulfill state and budgetary responsibilities.

“Your compliance and participation is greatly appreciated,” says Patricia “Patty” Ibarra, employee transportation coordinator of Rideshare. “And thank you to employees who have already completed the survey.”

Employees who take the survey will be entered for a chance to win several prices.

To take the survey, visit

https://its.rideproweb.com/rp/ridepro3employerinterface.asp?rp3Action=ClientCollection&C=D&SummaryId=18790&CompanyCode=104601&FD=False&AD=0&Config=1

Employees of Loma Linda University and Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center will be surveyed at a later date.

For more information, email rideshare@llu.edu or call ext. 53033. 

]]>
Thu, 27 Aug 2015 11:48:07 -0700
4264:22681 <![CDATA[LLUMC - Murrieta accredited as chest pain center]]> Kathryn Stiles Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta (LLUMC – Murrieta) has received full accreditation as a Chest Pain Center by the Society of Cardiovascular Patient Care, an international nonprofit focused on improving cardiovascular care.

“This is a huge accomplishment and creates a benefit to the community that will save lives and improve the quality of life in our region,” says Greg Henderson, newly appointed administrator of operations for LLUMC – Murrieta.

“We have a dedicated team of professionals who have committed themselves to our mission to save lives. This accreditation is another important step as Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta strives to provide world-class life-saving heart care for this area.”

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, killing approximately 600,000 people annually. More than five million Americans visit hospitals each year with chest pain.

An Accredited Chest Pain Center’s evidence-based approach to cardiac patient care allows clinicians to rapidly begin treatment during the critical early stages of a heart attack. 

“In a short time, Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta has rapidly become the leading provider of life-saving heart care services,” states Dr. David Lu, cardiologist and chair of the LLUMC – Murrieta chest pain committee.

“We see this accreditation as a vital part of our growth and long-term commitment to bringing advanced cardiac treatment and education to this community,” he continues.

“Not long ago, people had to endure long transportation out of the area to get this type of care and now, we have a comprehensive program that is close to home. In this program, our patients will experience our commitment to excellence.”

By achieving accreditation as a Chest Pain Center, LLUMC – Murrieta has demonstrated expertise in the following areas:

  • Integrating the emergency department with the local emergency medical system
  • Assessing, diagnosing and treating patients quickly
  • Effectively treating patients with low risk for acute coronary syndrome and no assignable cause for their symptoms
  • Continually seeking to improve processes and procedures
  • Ensuring the competence and training of Accredited Chest Pain Center personnel
  • Maintaining organizational structure and commitment
  • Having a functional design that promotes optimal patient care, and
  • Supporting community outreach programs that educate the public to promptly seek medical care if they display symptoms of a possible heart attack.

www.llumcmurrieta.org

]]>
Thu, 20 Aug 2015 12:10:14 -0700
4264:22679 <![CDATA[Leadership changes announced]]> A new executive director for public affairs will join the advancement team at Loma Linda University Health effective Sept. 1. 

Garrett Caldwell, DMin, MDiv, comes to Loma Linda from the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists — Loma Linda University Health’s parent organization — where he has served as public relations director for the past seven years.

Caldwell served as the point of contact between the media and the church while also consulting for Adventist leaders and communicators around the world on public relations, reputation management and crisis communication.

In addition to his public relations expertise, Caldwell is experienced in teaching, pastoring, leadership and filmmaking. He earned bachelor’s and graduate degrees from Oakwood University, Andrews University and Wesley Theological Seminary.

“I am pleased to welcome Garrett to our team,” says Rachelle Bussell, senior vice president for advancement. “He brings an impressive set of professional skills as well as an appreciation for our mission to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ.”

While gaining a great asset in Garrett Caldwell, the advancement team at the same time is saying goodbye to an important leader. Carolyn Hamilton, vice president for philanthropy, will leave Loma Linda University Health this fall to take a position closer to her family in Tennessee. She will serve as a vice president at Southern Adventist University.

“Carolyn will be greatly missed, and we appreciate her tremendous contributions to Loma Linda University Health,” Bussell says.

]]>
Thu, 20 Aug 2015 11:48:03 -0700
4264:22670 <![CDATA[Part two: How right were you?]]> Courtney Haas A whole week has passed since News of the Week brought you part two of “What do you know about Loma Linda University Health?” Now it is time to reveal the answers. 

Featuring questions once again from the 2015 General Conference Session of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, held in San Antonio July 2-11, the questions covered topics of Loma Linda University Health’s history, research, dentistry, health and the Adventist Health Study. Here are the answers, noted in bold: 

Question: What form of lighting was used in the first operating room of the Loma Linda Sanitarium?

      A.   Electric lights

      B.   Gas lights

      C.   Sunlight 

The operating room was located on the third floor. Surgeons scheduled their operations during the brightest time of the day and illuminated their surgeries by sunlight from nearby windows. Even though the Sanitarium had electricity, electric lights had not yet been perfected. Gaslights were the brightest, but fear of explosion from the type of anesthetics used at that time precluded their use.

 

Question: According to a statement by Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health, research is in the organization’s:

      A.   Blood

      B.   Hair

      C.   DNA 

President Hart has said, “Because of its importance to the well-being of humanity, research is emerging as a central focus at Loma Linda University Health. You might say research is in our DNA.”

 

Question: Who has provided the major amount of funding for Adventist Health Study-2 research since 2002?

      A.   World Cancer Research Fund

      B. National Institutes of Health

      C.   Loma Linda University 

From 2002-2007, the study was funded from a grant from the National Cancer Institute, a division of the National Institutes of Health that funds major health and medical research in the U.S. Adventist Health Study-2 has also received major support from Loma Linda University as well as grants from the World Cancer Research Fund and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. In 2011, the study was awarded a $5.5 million grant over five years from the National Cancer Institute. The grant will be used for the continued analysis of cancer data.

 

Question: Giraffes’ mouths are unique in that they:

      A.  Only have bottom teeth

      B.   Only use one side of their mouth to chew

      C.   Only have top teeth

A giraffe has a hard plate at the top of its mouth that it can use in conjunction with its teeth and tongue to chew food.

 

Question: Based on a 150-pound person, how long would it take a person walking 3 mph to burn 100 calories?

      A.  20 minutes

      B.   15 minutes

      C.   30 minutes 

It takes 20 minutes of walking at a 3 mph pace to burn 100 calories. It takes 8 minutes on an elliptical to burn 100 calories. 

]]>
Thu, 20 Aug 2015 10:40:51 -0700
4264:22671 <![CDATA[Instant employment and income verifications now available]]> In an effort to better support employees during important life events, Loma Linda University Health has partnered with The Work Number company to provide instant and secure employment and income verification.

In scenarios such as purchasing a car, applying for a job, refinancing a mortgage or seeking public assistance, a verifier may need employment or income information to assess an applicant’s eligibility.

For Loma Linda University Health employees, that traditionally would have required the verifier to call the talent management services department to request proof of employment or income, but this process could take several days.

The Work Number is an automated service that allows Loma Linda associates — both current and former employees — to have their employment and income verified instantly online. This fast, secure service is simple to use and provided at no cost to employees.

The Work Number is available to verifiers 24 hours a day, seven days a week, which facilitates on-the-spot financing decisions even on weekends or during evening hours. It also eliminates the need in many scenarios for Loma Linda University Health employees to provide paystubs or other documentation. Verifiers get the information they need directly from the database, resulting in a faster decision.

How it works

  • Loma Linda University Health’s payroll department securely transmits employment and income data to The Work Number on a regular cycle, so the information remains current.
  • When applying for credit or other services where proof of employment or income is required, employees will provide consent to the credit grantor to verify that information when signing the application.
  • The verifier — who has been carefully screened and credentialed before gaining access to the system — uses Loma Linda University Health’s employer code (17301) and the employee’s Social Security Number to look up his or her records in The Work Number database. 
  • The verifier must provide a valid reason or permissible purpose for requesting the information, as defined by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).
  • With the above conditions met, the verifier can validate employment or income in seconds, accelerating the decision process and helping employees obtain the credit they deserve.

Applying for public assistance?

Thousands of social services agencies nationwide use The Work Number regularly to perform verifications. If asked for proof of employment or income, simply inform your caseworker that the information is available on The Work Number, and direct them to www.theworknumber.com or 800-660-3399 for more information.

Need help?

The Work Number client service center is available Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. central time, at 800-367-2884. For TTY–hearing impaired, call 800-424-0253.

For more information

Visit www.theworknumber.com/employees, download the documents below or call:

Jacki Torrence De Shae, talent management services, ext. 14134
Tanisha Ware, payroll, ext. 52815

]]>
Thu, 20 Aug 2015 10:59:09 -0700
4264:22675 <![CDATA[Portion of Anderson Street to close next week]]> Anderson Street/Tippecanoe Avenue between Redlands Boulevard and the westbound Interstate 10 on- and off-ramps will close between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. Monday and Tuesday, Aug. 24 and 25.

This closure will allow for construction work as part of the I-10/Tippecanoe Interchange Improvement Project.

Also closing during this time period will be the eastbound interstate on- and off-ramps, the westbound on-ramp, and the left-turn lane of the westbound off-ramp.

Please note that due to unforeseen issues or inclement weather, this schedule may change.

For more information, please call 800-875-4990 or email twatkins@sanbag.ca.gov.

]]>
Thu, 20 Aug 2015 11:18:21 -0700
4264:22628 <![CDATA[Part 2: What do you know about Loma Linda University Health?]]> Courtney Haas A few weeks ago, News of the Week put your Loma Linda University Health knowledge to the test with a series of questions brought to you from the Loma Linda exhibit at the recent General Conference Session of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

If you enjoyed that, then get ready — here is round two of the “What do you know about Loma Linda University Health?” test.

Take the quiz below and be sure to check back next week to find out the correct answers.

History:

What form of lighting was used in the first operating room of the Loma Linda Sanitarium?

      A.   Electric lights

      B.   Gas lights

      C.   Sunlight

 

Research:

According to a statement by Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health, research is in the organization’s:

      A.   Blood

      B.   Hair

      C.   DNA

 

Adventist Health Study:

Who has provided the major amount of funding for Adventist Health Study-2 research since 2002?

      A.   World Cancer Research Fund

      B.   National Institutes of Health

      C.   Loma Linda University

 

Dentistry:

Giraffes’ mouths are unique in that they:

      A.   Only have bottom teeth

      B.   Only use one side of their mouth to chew

      C.   Only have top teeth

 

Health:

Based on a 150-pound person, how long would it take a person walking 3 mph to burn 100 calories?

      A.   20 minutes

      B.   15 minutes

      C.   30 minutes

]]>
Thu, 13 Aug 2015 13:36:45 -0700
4264:22629 <![CDATA[Photo contest at Global Health Institute]]> Courtney Haas International travel photographers — the Loma Linda University Global Health Institute wants to hear from you.

The institute is holding its first international photo contest, the winners of which will be shared in an upcoming newsletter.   

Whether you waited patiently with your camera to capture just the right moment or simply stumbled upon your shot, now is your chance to share that amazing experience with others. 

Submissions are encouraged of photos taken in the year 2015 by anyone who has participated in an international mission project through Loma Linda University Health, including: 

• Students who have traveled on a Students for International Mission Service (SIMS) trip

• Deferred mission appointees

• Global service awardees

• Hospital personnel

• Loma Linda University faculty, or

• Other international mission service participants

The theme for this year’s contest is service. Submit photos that demonstrate your definition of this word.

The final submissions will be judged by professional photographers, with grading based on composition, creativity and theme.

Submission deadline: December 31, 2015. Submit entries via email to Courtney Haas, communication specialist for the Global Health Institute, at chaas@llu.edu.

Award: $100 to first place winners and $50 to second place winners. There will also be five honorable mentions worth $25.

General rules:

  1. Photograph entries must be the original work of the entrant and have been taken while participating in a trip approved by Loma Linda University Health.
  2. Each entrant can submit three photographs.
  3. Each submission should include the “who, what, when, where” of the photo, including the complete name of the photographer and his/her school/work, the title of the work, the location and date taken, and a brief description of the “service” portrayed in the photo.
  4. Photos should be in JPEG format at a minimum resolution of 300 pixels per inch
  5. By submitting photographs, entrants grant the Global Health Institute the use of these materials in displays related and unrelated to the contest, as well as in printed and electronic publications regarding the institute. The Global Health Institute also retains the right to use both winning and non-winning entries for its own editorial and promotional purposes.

To learn more about this contest, please visit lluglobal.com.

]]>
Thu, 13 Aug 2015 13:38:46 -0700
4264:22633 <![CDATA[For the kid in us all: time-lapse of building teardown]]> Advancement films ]]> Perhaps this is what it looked like when dinosaurs had dinner.

This building on the corner of Anderson Street and Prospect Avenue was recently torn down to make way for the eventual entrance to the new hospital complex at Loma Linda University Health, scheduled to open in 2020. Learn more about Loma Linda’s plans for clinical care at lluhvision2020.org/priorities/clinical-care.

Vision 2020 is helping raise money to make this possible. #v2020

 

]]>
Thu, 13 Aug 2015 13:47:37 -0700
4264:22603 <![CDATA[CEO delivers State of the Medical Center address ]]> Larry Kidder It’s been about a year since Kerry Heinrich, JD, officially became chief executive officer (CEO) of Loma Linda University Medical Center.

Much has happened in that short time, including the kick-off for “Vision 2020: The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow,” separate licensure for Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital, major changes set in motion by the Affordable Care Act, and a host of other events and issues.

Despite the complexity of the organization, Heinrich made his entire presentation in less than an hour and a half. A number of leaders and other interested individuals were on hand, beginning at 5:30 p.m. Aug. 4 in the Medical Center’s lobby-level amphitheater.

Loma Linda University Medical Center (LLUMC) comprises the adult hospital, Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital, LLUMC – East Campus, Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center, LLUMC – Murrieta, Loma Linda University Surgical Hospital, and a number of other entities.

The CEO began with a financial report, stressing that the organization is doing well financially but needs to ramp up revenues as it faces a billion-dollar-plus building project in the next few years. Heinrich emphasized that financial stability and predictability will be key as the Medical Center seeks major funding for the new adult and children’s towers.

He referenced Project NOWW — an acronym for New Outstanding Ways to Work — as a major way the Medical Center is improving the quality of patient care and finding ways to be more efficient and cost-effective.

The Affordable Care Act has required health care facilities across the nation to retool their reimbursement mechanisms and their strategic alliances.

Loma Linda University Medical Center is working to strengthen and streamline its relationships with such organizations as the Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP), the county hospitals — Arrowhead Regional Medical Center (San Bernardino County) and Riverside University Medical Center (Riverside County), Epic Management (a management services organization), and other important health care providers in the region.

The Medical Center is also working with IEHP on the redesign of California Children’s Services (CCS).  At present, the state is studying ways to combine the structures of managed Medi-Cal with the CCS program to better address the concept of whole-child care.

Heinrich took time to thank the staff and administrators in a number of areas for their outstanding performance. He especially thanked those involved in the separate licensing and accreditation of the Children’s Hospital, pointing out that the process, which can take months, was accomplished in just five days.

He thanked the staff and leadership of both the Loma Linda University International Heart Institute and Loma Linda University Cancer Center for meeting major goals and milestones during 2015. He also recognized the Loma Linda University Transplantation Institute for achieving remarkable success in liver, kidney, pancreas and heart transplants. 

Heinrich ended by giving an opportunity for questions and suggestions. Following some brief discussions, he concluded his State of the Medical Center address, which was greeted by applause.

“We have major opportunities,” Heinrich emphasized. “Our challenges motivate us to enhance our quality of care, our efficiency and our innovation. Our successes encourage us to keep building on what we’re doing well.”

]]>
Wed, 12 Aug 2015 15:27:58 -0700
4264:22638 <![CDATA[Notes from the President -- The Pipelines]]> Dr. Richard Hart   August 2015
The Pipelines

Besides their basic educational programs, universities concentrate primarily on their downstream strategies — developing graduate programs, encouraging research, maintaining relationships with alumni, etc. We certainly do that and want to emphasize it even more. But with our objective of producing professionals with unique values and perspectives for Richard Hart our church and our world, we have realized that just as important is the upstream “pipeline,” the process of motivating and preparing students for the health professions. This must begin early for students to be competitive. 

Over the past several decades, a wide variety of programs have been developed on this campus that play a major role in this pipeline process. Many of these occur during the summer, with visiting students studying in our classrooms and laboratories. These end with “graduations,” giving families, friends, and all of us a chance to share in the joy of accomplishment. 

Let me share about our six different programs, starting with the youngest students.

La Escuelita (K-12 with an emphasis on elementary school children), started some 15 years ago as our students, particularly in the first two years of medical school, sought to impact the local community. They worked through our CKC (Community Kids Connection) program based at the SAC Health System clinic in San Bernardino. Local parents were contacted and offered tutoring for their grade-school children. After some initial hesitancy, the program took off, now with hundreds of our students spending an hour and a half each week, with mainly first through eighth graders, helping them with homework, swapping stories, and providing invaluable mentoring to these kids from tough neighborhoods. Many of these relationships expand into family connections spanning the years. Some of those young “mentees” are now in college and beyond.

MITHS, Minority Introduction to the Health Sciences, was specifically designed to acquaint young Adventist African American students with potential careers in the health professions. Championed by Leroy Reese, 15-25 motivated students come from across this country to spend three weeks on our campus each summer. They study under our professors, stay in our residence halls, spend time in our labs and clinics, sharpen their reading and science skills, and observe the life and excitement of the healing professions up close. This program has produced rich dividends, with graduates now having gone on to complete their full professional training in many of our schools. Leroy deserves special credit for doggedly keeping this program going for so many years. The young lives he has impacted will benefit us all for decades to come.

Si Se Puede (Yes You Can) started soon after MITHS, with a focus on local Hispanic students. It began as a drive-in program for high school students who had an interest in the health professions. Led by J.C. Belliard, this program gradually expanded, “”Gateway initially to Native American and African American youth, and more recently to all disadvantaged groups. Renamed Summer Gateway Program in 2012, it rotates these students through various activities over three weeks, exposing them to a wide variety of health careers. We graduated 61 students this year, bringing the total to over 642 who have gone through this training since 2005. A special highlight of the graduation exercise, besides seeing many proud parents, was to see previous graduates from every year, now studying here or elsewhere in professional programs. Like all of these programs, they are a work of passion, and J.C., Tina Pruna, and all their colleagues are to be commended for this investment in our future. Particularly exciting was the eight Native American students from reservations across this country who participated this year, staying in the homes of local church families. They are the hope and promise for their local communities.

The Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine is part of our School of Medicine, under the direction of Marino De Leon. It has received major funding from the National Institutes of Health for many years and is now one of the largest and most successful programs of this type in the nation. One aspect of the center is encouraging minority students to launch careers in science, and specifically research. Marino offers summer “employment” to around 60 students each summer, coming from high schools, colleges and graduate programs. They work alongside our research professors, tackling real questions that are a part of these research labs. With the experience gained from gathering data, analyzing results and creating scientific posters of their experiments, they mature quickly with pride in their accomplishments. A highlight each summer is the final “Students Research Symposium during which each student and their professor provide a poster conference to our campus showing and defending their results. Their graduation, with proud parents and professors attending, is one of the true highlights of each summer.

San Manuel Gateway College, our newest program, is taking shape. This will occupy the third floor of our new Loma Linda University Health – San Bernardino campus being built alongside Interstate 215 in downtown San Bernardino. We just had the “topping out” ceremony, placing the last beam, with scheduled completion of the building by next April. Arwyn Wild, a former principal from the San Bernardino City Unified School District, has been appointed executive director and has started the various tasks of selecting programs to offer, developing curricula, identifying teachers and staff, deciding on equipment, starting the accreditation process, etc. The San Manuel Gateway College will offer a variety of certificate programs to high school graduates, giving them job-entry skills that can bring income to their families and offer a path out of poverty. Our expectation is that some will choose to continue their studies on into degree programs in the health professions, joining a desperately needed cadre of professionals with cultural sensitivity and skills in relating to minority groups in this region.

Each of these programs has a particular focus, an audience we hope to reach and impact. They also give Loma Linda faculty, staff and students an opportunity to refine their own commitments and skills in crossing cultural boundaries and developing relationships. We are blessed with these connections, and the thankfulness shared in the eyes and hugs of parents and students is payment enough. Though we have over 11,000 applicants each year seeking one of the 2,000 openings to our regular degree programs, we believe these pipeline programs strengthen that pool in significant ways.

EXSEED (Excellence in STEM Experiential Education) is the final program I want to include in this list. It is a bit different from the others, as it focuses on teachers at the secondary and elementary levels, giving them the motivation and skills they need to fulfill one of the most important roles in our society — educating our children. We just completed our fifth summer program in EXSEED, with 100 teachers from across this country as well as Canada, Mexico and Jamaica. Started initially for Adventist secondary school teachers, it has expanded, and this year included 17 local high school science teachers. An intense week of rotating through research labs, discovering new educational strategies, learning to innovate with their new iPads, and developing relationships with colleagues makes up the EXSEED experience. A donor has generously funded the expansion of this program, so new ideas are being considered to extend its influence and strategies. Ron Carter and I are meeting with the Adventist teachers and pastors in Oregon next week to explore with them innovative strategies for their area.

Is this appropriate activity for an academic health science center? I think so, particularly as we seek to strengthen our local school systems and support the Adventist educational system around the world. If our ultimate goal is producing quality, principled health professionals, with our values embedded deep in their souls, it must begin early. What better way to enhance the “pipelines” than to bring them to us, giving them greater knowledge of health for themselves and their families, brighter prospects for the future, and a better sense of purpose in this world — perhaps to return to us again as full-time students in the future.

Cordially,

 

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

Office of the President, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350

Copyright © 2015 by Loma Linda University

llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 13 Aug 2015 14:44:27 -0700
4264:22521 <![CDATA[Braving the shave]]> Dozens of medical professionals, students, firemen and barbers joined together July 29 at Loma Linda University Health to “brave the shave” as they raised awareness and funds to combat childhood cancer.

Over the course of the afternoon, an enthusiastic crowd cheered as 19 people had their heads shaved.

The event brought together people from throughout the community. As music played, Loma Linda University students could be heard convincing favorite professors to join in, and over a dozen members of the Loma Linda Fire Department cheered on for support as several of their colleagues had their hair removed by volunteers from Wilson’s Classic Barber Shop in Redlands.

Between shavings, researchers and treatment specialists from Loma Linda University’s pediatric oncology programs spoke of their experiences.

For many, the highlight of the event came when 4-year-old Luke Crecelius took the stage to shave his father’s head. Luke has been cancer-free for 20 months after receiving treatment for leukemia in 2013. He grinned broadly as barber Garay Jones helped him guide the clippers across his father’s head.

“I’m doing this for my son,” Kyle Crecelius, a member of the Loma Linda Fire Department, explained. “It is because of programs like this that Luke is here with us today. This research saves children’s lives, and it’s so important that we continue to support it.”

The event was sponsored by the LLU School of Medicine basic sciences student council on behalf of St. Baldrick’s Foundation, the largest non-government funder of such research.

Kimberly Payne, PhD, director of translational research, basic sciences department at Loma Linda University School of Medicine, expressed her appreciation to the participants.

“It wasn’t that long ago that children like this would have had very few options when faced with these diseases,” she said. “But thanks to the efforts of researchers supported by organizations like St. Baldrick’s, that is changing. We now have treatment for diagnoses that would have been hopeless just a few years ago, and it’s so important that we continue this progress.”

“So far, we have raised nearly $2,000 from over 70 donors,” said Jon Payne, a medical student at LLU and lead organizer of the event. “We’re hoping to raise even more than that as contributions continue to come in by phone and on the website over the next week.”

Donors may contribute to this effort by visiting the event’s website at stbaldricks.org/events/LomaLindaUniversity2015 or by calling 888-899-2253. St. Baldrick’s Foundation is a registered non-profit organization, and donations are tax-deductible.

]]>
Thu, 06 Aug 2015 15:10:19 -0700
4264:22525 <![CDATA[Family medicine residents join Special Olympics World Games medical team]]> Nancy Yuen The 2015 Special Olympics World Games included athletes from 165 countries with intellectual disabilities. The Games were held July 25 to Aug. 2, 2015, in Los Angeles.

Thirty-one members of the Loma Linda University family medicine department at Loma Linda University Health and affiliated Loma Linda – Inland Empire Consortium for Healthcare Education (LLIECHE) family medicine residency program volunteered July 31 as part of the team that responded to medical emergencies and medical needs of the athletes.

Stewart Wilkey, MD, a third-year family medicine resident at Loma Linda University Health, who often attends professional sporting events, including football and basketball games and championship events, recalls his experience. “I volunteered with the family medicine residents,” he recalls, “attending events on the UCLA campus. As the day progressed, we rotated through the various events, including volleyball, football (soccer), tennis, judo, gymnastics and softball.

“During a judo match, I watched a story unfold that I will never forget,” he says. “One of the athletes was nervous and unable to compete. With compassion, his opponent gave him a hug. The match paused until he calmed down and was able to compete.” Wilkey later called his brother. “I told him the World Games was the best sporting event I’d ever attended.” 

The week prior to the Games (July 21 to 24), numerous Southern California towns hosted delegations from various countries.

Lauren Simon, MD, MPH, assistant program director, family medicine residency and director, primary care sports medicine, Loma Linda University, had met athletes from Austria and Liechtenstein while serving as “Host Town” team physician for the city of Redlands.

Simon orchestrated the participation of Loma Linda’s family medicine residency program in the World Games. According to Simon, everyone participated except those who were on duty in the hospital.

Prior to the Games, they received training on how to assess athletes with intellectual disabilities for the “three  H’s” — heart, head and heat injuries, and other medical concerns that might be encountered.

Throughout the day the physicians input injury data on iPads and mobile phones into a specialized, secure injury data tracking program. Data collected from the various fields of play was transmitted electronically to a unified command center so that it could be reviewed in real time.

When necessary, the doctors stabilized athletes for transport to higher-level care. One physician also stabilized a spectator’s medical problem that occurred in the stands until emergency medical services (EMS) staff arrived.

Simon is fellowship trained in sports medicine, and used vacation time to volunteer at the Games prior to July 31. According to Simon, Special Olympics athletes may have physical challenges and other medical conditions in addition to their intellectual disabilities, such as limb spasticity (e.g., in some athletes with cerebral palsy), or seizure disorder, which can increase their risk of injuries. In addition, many of the athletes were tired from prolonged travel to get to Los Angeles from around the world.

More than 6,500 athletes from 165 countries participated in the Games. The family medicine residents assisted with numerous interventions, caring for a range of injuries from minor scrapes to broken bones, falls, bee stings and other medical and cardiopulmonary concerns.

“One of the added benefits that our family medicine residents and faculty provided to the athletes was their multi-lingual skills,” says Simon, “with many languages spoken among our group. This talent enabled them to speak with many of the athletes in their own native language.”

Julia Shayunussova, MD, a family practice resident, says, “It was an unexpected and exciting surprise to find out that there was a big delegation at the Games from my country, Kazakhstan. It was an overwhelming, exciting experience as I met the great special athletes and their coaches. I wouldn’t have been able to meet them if it wasn’t for Dr. Simon’s work to get us there. I'm thankful to Loma Linda University, the family medicine residency program, and especially Dr. Simon!”

“It was saddening to learn statistics that many intellectually disabled individuals often do not receive adequate medical care,” says Simon. “This was highlighted during an ESPN feature about the Special Olympics by reporter Robin Roberts. As our medical residents provided care at the World Games, they gained skills and a deeper understanding of treating athletes and others with intellectual disabilities that they can continue to implement in their own practices.”

Simon is inspired by the teamwork she witnessed and the inspirational moments and sportsmanship seen in the Games with athletes and dedicated volunteers. “There was an amazing spirit of volunteerism,” she says. “Many of the residents approached me during and after the event and said that it was such a great experience that they want to do it again. As this takes place during their practices later on, it will continue to fulfill the mission of Loma Linda University Health ‘to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ.’”

Simon is grateful to Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president, Loma Linda University Health, and Nancy Young, president and CEO of Social Action Community Health System (SAC Health System) in San Bernardino, for their support. SAC clinics were closed July 31 so that the residents could volunteer.

Family medicine residency program residents, core faculty and some family members attended the Games. The event was the largest sports and humanitarian event held globally in 2015, and was the biggest event in Los Angeles since the 1984 Olympic Games.

According to Simon, at Loma Linda University Health, residents have other opportunities to provide global medical care. There are two family practice residency programs: a traditional three-year family residency program and a four-year combined family/preventive medicine residency. Residents in the traditional and combined programs have worked in the Congo, China, Nepal, Honduras and Malawi during or after they have completed the program.

]]>
Thu, 06 Aug 2015 15:40:10 -0700
4264:22519 <![CDATA[Murrieta recognized for use of technology in patient care]]> Kathryn Stiles Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta has been named one of 338 hospitals in the nation to achieve “Most Wired” status by the American Hospital Association in 2015.

Only 16 hospitals/health systems in California received the designation this year.

Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta, which opened in April of 2011, is a fully electronic hospital in all departments and has achieved a level of integration that is in the top tier of hospitals across the country.

The recognition from the American Hospital Association demonstrates that LLUMC – Murrieta’s commitment to deploying technology to improve patient care is on par with industry leaders.

The hospital continually invests in and implements technological solutions to improve work flow, reduce hand-offs and improve the patient experience.

Hospitals that achieve this designation have accomplished specific benchmarks in the areas of infrastructure, business and administrative management, clinical quality and safety, and clinical integration.

“We value this designation because it helps us to focus on priorities within the technology environment that drive best practices nationally. It is gratifying that the hospital’s investment and focus on people, process and technology is recognized by this Most Wired award,” says Doug Leeper, executive director of IT.

“We will continue to improve and enhance our automation solutions to facilitate compassionate, effective, and high-quality health care for our community.”

Learn more about the hospital at llumcmurrieta.org.

]]>
Thu, 06 Aug 2015 14:07:13 -0700
4264:22513 <![CDATA[Buildings on Prospect Street demolished ]]> Courtney Haas Transformation has begun on the campus of Loma Linda University Health to make space for the new hospital complex scheduled to open in 2020.

July 10 marked the beginning of construction on Prospect Avenue west of Anderson Street, and this week, two buildings on the south side of Prospect came down to create space for the eventual entrance of the new hospital facility. Jtec Healthcare Construction Management Inc. is providing comprehensive construction management services.

This project has eliminated all on-street parking on the south side of Prospect Avenue, and the timed parking on the north side is scheduled to become off limits, as well, in the near future.

Drivers should instead park in the timed spaces surrounding Loma Linda Market, in lot X behind the Centennial Complex, or in the Shepardson Drive lot east of the Drayson Center super field. Shuttles are available to the School of Dentistry from lot X and Shepardson lot.

Once demolition is complete, Prospect Avenue will be shut down to vehicular traffic sometime in September.  

]]>
Thu, 06 Aug 2015 13:49:51 -0700
4264:22515 <![CDATA[Final steel beam installed at Loma Linda University Health - San Bernardino]]> July 31 was a milestone date for the construction of Loma Linda University Health – San Bernardino. The final steel beam for the structure was installed during a topping-off ceremony.

Wearing personalized Loma Linda University Health constructions hats and safety vests, leaders of the organization gave remarks during a brief program before moving the crowd outside, where they and construction workers signed the final steel beam.

Covered with newly penned signatures and messages, the beam was lifted to the roof via crane, putting in place the final piece of the building’s shell. 

Loma Linda University Health – San Bernardino represents a new approach to improving the health of the city and will serve as a model for communities across the country. 

The project involves three components: the San Manuel Gateway College, a medical clinic and a vegetarian restaurant. It is scheduled for completion in summer 2016.

San Manuel Gateway College

The San Manuel Gateway College, named in recognition of a $10 million gift from the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, is a new and unique educational collaboration with the San Bernardino City Unified School District, the San Bernardino Community College District and other entities.

This initiative will provide career opportunities through six- to 12-month entry-level medical certification courses, such as phlebotomy and medical and dental assisting, for high school and adult students who come predominantly from disadvantaged and impoverished communities of San Bernardino and the surrounding area.

Medical care

A clinic operated by Social Action Corps (SAC) Health System will offer affordable clinical care to underserved communities, more than doubling the space it currently occupies at the former Norton Air Force Base. Formed by Loma Linda University students and faculty in the 1960s as a way to help people in need, SAC Health System is now the largest single provider of MediCal services in San Bernardino.

The new space will grow this outreach and feature world-class health care provided by Loma Linda University Health faculty, residents and students.

Restaurant and demonstration kitchen

A gourmet, wait-service vegetarian restaurant will offer healthful foods to the community while demonstrating that plant-based eating can indeed be enjoyable. The restaurant will provide an important healthy dining option in the city center and offer another avenue to share the latest health advances made by Loma Linda University Health’s researchers.

Learn more: lomalindauniversityhealth.org/sanbernardino

]]>
Thu, 06 Aug 2015 13:55:01 -0700
4264:22437 <![CDATA[Next week: Health Disparities Research Symposium]]> Jiggs Gallagher and Susan Onuma The 15th Annual Health Disparities Research Symposium will take place Wednesday, Aug. 5, at Wong Kerlee International Conference Center. 

The keynote speaker is James N. Jarvis, MD, clinical professor of pediatrics at the State University of New York at Buffalo, and director of research for the division of allergy/immunology and rheumatology at Women and Children’s Hospital of Buffalo. 

The symposium is presented by Loma Linda University School of Medicine’s Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine.

The day’s activities will take place in three parts:

  • At noon, there will be a seminar titled “Toxic Stress and Health Disparities.” It will focus on how epigenetics informs understanding of the link between toxic stress and health disparities, using disease-specific epigenomes in juvenile arthritis as an example.
  • From 3 to 5 p.m., the center will present student work in the form of posters on research projects. The students are part of the health disparities research pipeline program at Loma Linda University Health.
  • At 5:30 p.m., Jarvis will present his keynote address, “Our Call to Improve Minority Health.” He will discus his work with the American Academy of Pediatrics’ committee on Native American child health, as will as his work with Native American students and how it integrates with his role as a genome biologist.

The center will offer a buffet at 5 p.m. for attendees.  All of the events are free, and no pre-registration is required.

“We are excited about commemorating major milestones of our 17-year-old pipeline program,” says Marino De Leon, PhD, director of the Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine.

Since its inception, this program has awarded 565 research fellowships to high school, undergraduate, graduate and medical students traditionally underrepresented in biomedical sciences.

De Leon says, “A significant number of the high school (63 percent) and undergraduate (96 percent) student participants go on to graduate with a four-year STEM college degree.” STEM stands for science, technology, engineering and math.

He adds, “Of additional significance, 53 percent of the program’s high school students and 81 percent of undergraduate students progress to enroll in graduate scientific biomedical programs.”

For more information, check out the center’s website at www.llu.edu/chdmm, or call Ann Bradshaw at ext. 49474.

]]>
Thu, 30 Jul 2015 11:49:22 -0700
4264:22439 <![CDATA[In memoriam: Roy Branson ]]> James Ponder Memorial services for Roy Branson, PhD, director of the Center for Christian Bioethics at Loma Linda University Health, will be held on Saturday, August 8, at 4:00 p.m. at Azure Hills Seventh-day Adventist Church in Grand Terrace.

 -----

Roy Branson, PhD, noted Seventh-day Adventist theologian, social activist, ethicist, mentor and educator, passed away from complications of cardiovascular disease July 7 at the age of 77.

The story of Branson’s meteoric — if somewhat unorthodox — career trajectory tends to overshadow an equally interesting personal narrative, but taken together, the two present a picture of a profoundly creative and innovative individual with wide-ranging interests and spheres of influence.

The day he died, the Adventist Review described Branson as “a fervent activist for various causes, from the civil rights movement to anti-smoking legislation, anti-poverty initiatives, and social, political and medical ethics.” The Review article also reported that he received his undergraduate degree from Atlantic Union College, earned graduate degrees at the University of Chicago and Andrews University, and received his PhD in religious ethics from Harvard University in 1968.

One of Branson’s many close friends, David R. Larson, PhD, professor of ethical studies at Loma Linda University School of Religion, enlarges that portrayal by citing a few notable titles and highlights of Branson’s remarkable career:

  • Associate dean and professor, Loma Linda University School of Religion
  • Director, Center for Christian Bioethics at Loma Linda University Health
  • Scholar-in-residence, Kennedy Institute of Ethics at Georgetown University
  • Teacher, Adventist Theological Seminary at Andrews University and Columbia Union College (now Washington Adventist University)
  • Founding member, Association of Adventist Forums (now Adventist Forum)
  • Co-founder and editor, Spectrum Magazine
  • Founder, Center for Law and Public Policy at Washington Adventist University
  • Founder, Interfaith Coalition Against Tobacco
  • President, The Adventist Society for Religious Studies

Branson was one of the first to integrate, and perhaps transform, Adventist theology by bringing a strong emphasis on social justice and religious ethics into the discussion, literally carrying his faith into the field when he felt the need to take a stand.

“He marched against racism with Martin Luther King Jr., Abraham Joshua Heschel and many others at Selma (Alabama) 50 years ago this spring,” Larson says, adding that Branson also protested the exclusion of women from the ministry by organizing the first ordination service for women elders at Sligo Seventh-day Adventist Church in Takoma Park, Maryland, in 1973, and for women pastors in 1995.

In discussing Branson’s contributions to Adventist theology, Larson lists Adventist studies, a theology of Sabbath and the second coming, apocalyptic literature and ethics, the secularization of medicine and the theology of joy as major areas of interest.

"Despite his many other contributions,” Larson concludes, “the countless number of people all around the world, in socially high places and low, who counted Roy as among their very closest friends will be his greatest legacy."

In 1967, former LLU librarian Alice Gregg introduced Branson to a third-year medical student and the two became fast friends. Today, Donna Carlson, MD, looks back on her friendship with Branson and articulates two contributions for which Branson often told her he would most like to be remembered. 

“In addition to his passion for social justice, he hoped his influence on Adventist theology would be a major part of his legacy,” she notes. “He believed, as I do, that he helped shift our focus from something of a theology of exclusiveness and apocalyptic gloom to one of inclusiveness and apocalyptic joy and hope.

“Branson never lost his gift for creative ideas,” Carlson continues. “Here at Loma Linda, he conceived and started the ‘Heroes of Health Care’ course and the ‘Ethics in Great Films’ series. He also worked to bring different schools together — most recently Public Health and Religion with a Sabbath school ‘Healing of the Nations’ series based on the book of Revelation — and he brought back the Provonsha lecture that now opens the Alumni Postgraduate Convention. His work in organizing and presenting fascinating Sabbath School classes at Loma Linda and Sligo is legendary.”

Born July 3, 1938, at Portland Sanitarium in Portland, Oregon, to missionary parents Ernest Lloyd (E.L.) and Ardice (Detamore) Branson, the future scholar grew up in Lebanon where his father established Middle East College. His grandfather, William Henry (W.H.) Branson, was president of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists from 1950 to 1954. Much of Branson’s childhood was spent in the Middle East in cities like Addis Ababa, Beirut and Cairo.

“When he was about 4, his mother was hired as a tutor for Emperor Haile Selassie’s two teenage daughters,” Carlson says. “She used to take Roy with her to the palace where the princesses would pick him up and kiss him; Roy didn’t like all that a bit.”

He did, however, like school. He skipped a grade, advanced at a rapid pace and finished high school at Greater New York Academy in New York City at 16.

“While living in New York, he had free run of the city,” Carlson reports. “He rode the subways to visit museums, parks and libraries; he got cheap, standing-room-only tickets to plays and concerts. His favorite haunt was the Metropolitan Museum of Art. He loved art, literature and music — particularly Mendelssohn — all his life.”

Carlson notes that Branson was deeply committed to the church that nourished him and was involved in helping spread the Adventist message from a young age.

“Roy was such a devoted member that he carried Adventist literature to give out to other passengers on the train,” she recalls. The fact that some of them may not have appreciated his zeal did not deter Branson in the least, as evidenced by an encounter with one of the greatest names in symphonic music.

“He was hanging around 57th Street, passing by the back entrance of Carnegie Hall one day when he heard the symphony,” she shares. “Finding an unlocked door, he entered a room where Arturo Toscanini was conducting a rehearsal. As soon as it was over, he went up and handed Toscanini a tract. I don’t know what Toscanini thought, but Roy felt he had fulfilled his Adventist duty.”

Branson’s natural leadership abilities revealed themselves at Atlantic Union College, where he was elected president of the student body. “He majored in English literature,” Carlson says, “and then went on to the University of Chicago where he got a master’s degree in the same subject. His thesis was on Geoffrey Chaucer’s poem ‘Parliament of Fowls,’ which was actually a romantic, political and social satire with philosophical undertones about the nature of free will.

“For Roy, Chaucer combined an interest in literature, politics and philosophy,” Carlson continues. “In fact, he always thought it was partly his work at the University of Chicago that got him into Harvard because his major professor wrote such a favorable letter supporting his application.”

In 1968, Branson successfully defended his dissertation, “Theories of Religious Pluralism and the American Founding Fathers,” and was awarded a PhD degree in religious ethics from Harvard. In the paper, Branson discussed the rift between two competing attitudes on the relationship between church and state at the beginnings of American democracy. His conclusion indicates the subtle schism between the views of Thomas Jefferson and James Madison, a difference that persists to this day. Evangelicals are fundamentally Jeffersonian, while mainstream Protestants tend to agree more with Madison.

While at Harvard, Branson became interested in the plight of other Adventists in graduate school and, with enthusiastic friends there, started the Association of Adventist Forums to help them stay in touch with other Adventist graduate students and the church.  

During his years in Washington, Branson was invited at least twice to Rose Garden receptions at the White House where he met Bill and Hillary Clinton. He also testified before Congress on anti-tobacco legislation.

Aside from his passion for theology, the church, social justice, art, literature and music, Branson enjoyed one other notable long-term interest.

“It was baseball,” Carlson discloses. “He was an avid and enthusiastic Dodgers fan. It goes back to his days in New York. The family lived in Forest Hills, which is in Queens, and he became a lifelong fan of the Brooklyn Dodgers, complete with a fierce antagonism for the New York Yankees.”

As news of his passing spread, numerous Branson friends and associates weighed in on the importance of his contributions to Adventist education and life.

Long-term colleague Bonnie Dwyer, MA, who currently serves as editor of Spectrum Magazine and member of the board of directors for the Charles E. Weniger Society for Excellence, points out that the society recently selected Branson as one of three honorees for the Charles Elliott Weniger Award for Excellence in Adventism, which will be conferred posthumously in February 2016.

“The society has been honoring people who have made significant contributions to Adventism for the past 40 years,” recalls Dwyer. “Like Charles Weniger, the man for whom the awards are named, Roy was an enthusiastic Adventist who embraced life with an adventurous spirit. He mentored many ethicists and journalists over the years. Among other things, he will be remembered for his pioneering role in establishing an independent press in Adventism through the creation of Spectrum.”

Jon Paulien, PhD, dean of Loma Linda University School of Religion, recalls that after Branson became associate dean in early 2008, he took the lead in accreditation visits in 2008 and 2010 and program reviews in 2010 and 2014.

“Perhaps his greatest contribution as associate dean was his formulation of the five goals that religion teachers at Loma Linda seek in every class,” Paulien observes. “These five goals have encouraged the School of Religion faculty to elevate the use of Scripture and to keep the Adventist heritage up front whenever relevant. Branson also successfully pushed us to keep in mind the importance of moral advocacy to the task of religion within society.”

Paulien portrays another side of Branson’s personality when he discusses interpersonal relationships with the people of the department.

“Branson was most beloved among the faculty and staff of the School of Religion,” he explains, “for the way he circulated around the office, expressing caring concern for everyone and listening carefully to all joys, sorrows, and family narratives. He is deeply missed.”

Calvin Thomsen, PhD, assistant professor of religion and relational studies, concurs with Paulien on Branson’s collegiality.

“Roy was best known for his powerful role in shaping Adventist intellectual life and for his prophetic voice in calling Adventists to reclaim our heritage as people who care about addressing issues of social injustice and public health,” Thomsen notes.

“But I remember him,” he continues, “as somebody who made an extra effort to connect with the people around him. Long before I came to work for the School of Religion and he had any particular reason to be interested in me, I remember ways he engaged me in deep conversation and indicated an interest in my ministry and my ideas. As a work colleague, I could see the same forces at work. He was the guy who regularly stopped by people’s offices to ask a question, indicate interest and draw out the best in us.”

In addition to his many friends around the world, Branson is survived by his nephews, Brian and Bruce Branson, sons of his late brother, Bruce Branson, MD, who chaired the department of surgery at Loma Linda University School of Medicine for many years.

Branson was laid to rest July 20 in Montecito Memorial Park, where his father, mother, brother and grandfather are interred. He once told Carlson he wanted to wake up on the morning of the Resurrection and see the people he loved so much. 

]]>
Thu, 30 Jul 2015 12:20:07 -0700
4264:22445 <![CDATA[Providing a Gateway to the health professions for 10 years]]> David Hutabarat This year marks the tenth anniversary for Loma Linda Health’s Gateway Program, formerly known as Sí Se Puede. Gateway is spearheaded by the Institute for Community Partnerships. The purpose of the Gateway program is to expose minority high school students to the large variety of health care professions. During the two-week program, students interact with different health care professionals and do hands-on activities relating to medicine, allied health and many other fields.

On July 26, this year’s Gateway program culminated with a 10th anniversary celebration and graduation program in Wong Kerlee International Conference Center.

Juan Carlos Belliard, PhD, assistant vice president, community partnerships and diversity, welcomed the students, their families and more than 400 guests.

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, spoke about the history and significance of the program, and Leslie Pollard, PhD, DMin, MBA, president of Oakwood University in Alabama, urged Gateway participants to “keep moving forward.” Pollard was vice president for diversity at Loma Linda University Health when Si Se Puede began under his leadership.

More than 600 Gateway alumni were invited to the program, and many of those who attended were pictured in posters from each year. The audience watched slideshows of both the current Gateway class and photos from each of the previous nine years. The photos were powerful, depicting the first time students had been given the opportunity to learn about many of the career opportunities in the health professions.

The program started with 15 students per class and has grown to 60-plus. It has also grown from a one-week program with one day of shadowing to a two-week program with an extra week of shadowing and a full day of service.

During the celebration, five Gateway alumni were awarded scholarships. They are Daniel Samano, now in his fourth year of medical school at Loma Linda University; Sierra Sicairos, who has been accepted into the radiation technology program in the School of Allied Health Professions; Ruth Claros, a medical student at Wright State University, Ohio; Cinthia Palomino, a graduate of the School of Nursing who is now working at the Behavioral Medicine Center; and Romario Garcia Bautista, a student of journalism and business at University of Oregon.

Over the past decade, Gateway has given 641 students the opportunity to experience something that they probably never had a chance to do before. Most students come from low socioeconomic backgrounds and Gateway was likely their first real exposure to seeing health care as an attainable career.

Gateway is an example of building bridges between the university and the community. Through engaging families of San Bernardino in conversation, relationships started, opening doors to share needs as well as hopes. As these connections are nurtured, real change begins.

What can you do? Get involved in your community! “Invite a student to shadow you at your workplace, be a host family for students taking part in programs like Gateway, or share your experience at school career days,” says Tina Pruna, MPH, Gateway coordinator.

“Everything you do can give students the chance to see possibilities they did not see before,” says Belliard. “As we continue building bridges between Loma Linda University Health and the community, we continue empowering students — the future of health care.”

Belliard emphasizes that interventions such as Gateway have a tremendous impact on wholeness that extends beyond its participants.

“We know that a higher level of education and income leads to better health outcomes,” he says. “So in a way, this is one of the most important things Loma Linda University Health can do to improve the health and future of our community.”

Note: Writer David Hutabarat is interim program coordinator, Community-Academic Partners in Service (CAPS) at Loma Linda University Health.

]]>
Thu, 30 Jul 2015 12:37:43 -0700
4264:22444 <![CDATA[Empowering K-12 educators in the art of teaching STEM]]> Heather Reifsnyder In science, a dynamic event rearranges one state into another, with a distinct before and after. It is an energetic force that produces change.

This is the kind of power that is released in young people’s minds when a teacher helps them understand a new topic in a way that’s exciting to them. The provost of Loma Linda University, Ron Carter, PhD, made this point during his introductory remarks for last week’s EXSEED conference at Loma Linda University Health. 

Ninety-four educators attended the conference held July 13-17 — five school principals, 78 teachers and 11 teachers/principals or administrators.

EXSEED’s purpose is to help educators — specifically kindergarten through 12th grade teachers — enlighten their students in a way that makes such moments possible. The conference’s name stands for Excellence in STEM Experiential Education. 

The STEM disciplines — science, technology, engineering and mathematics — play a key role in advancing solutions to the world’s problems and in keeping the United States on pace with the technological world. Relative to Loma Linda University Health, students majoring in STEM disciplines have a great foundation for a career in the health sciences.

Teachers are the most important people in their students’ lives for making them believe that they can be successful, noted the president of Harvey Mudd College, Maria Klawe, PhD, during her keynote address. She stressed the importance of teachers in helping girls and women believe they can succeed in a STEM career.

Teachers must eradicate the “cultural mythology” that says girls aren’t good at STEM, that women don’t make great scientists, that technology is a man’s game, Klawe argued.

Following the inspirational opening morning of EXSEED, plenary presenters spoke, and each teacher in attendance was given an iPad and taught how this tablet can be put to great use in the classroom.

For the following two days, teachers in attendance had their choice of about 30 workshops on specific teaching ideas to incorporate in their classrooms. Teachers could choose between sessions that helped them understand creative project ideas to do with students, theoretical bases of STEM, digital and technological literacy, and even grant writing to help them obtain funds for their classrooms.

For the fourth day of the conference, attendees heard from researchers on campus who shared new developments in the health sciences, toured the Medical Simulation Center, and learned more about using their iPads.

On closing day, the teachers presented their group projects in which they had used their iPads to create videos demonstrating teaching ideas.

The attendees were also introduced to Tom and Vi Zapara, who have provided financial and emotional support to EXSEED.

Tom Zapara briefly took the microphone to share his thoughts about education, and he remarked on the critical importance of teachers in society.

Many attendees later spoke with the Zaparas, thanking them for helping make EXSEED possible. A delegation of teachers from Jamaica expressed appreciation to the Zaparas and leaders of EXSEED.

Of the teachers who attended EXSEED 2015, about 80 percent of them come from Seventh-day Adventist schools nationwide. Other attendees teach in local public schools and schools in Mexico and Jamaica.

“Every year I feel better about the future knowing another 100-plus K-12 educators are going to inspire thousands of students to enjoy STEM topics because of EXSEED,” says Doug Havens, director of EXSEED.

EXSEED was first held in 2011 and has been repeated each summer since to empower as many teachers as possible who are educating the next generation of STEM leaders. The innovative and collaborative program empowers K-12 teachers in Adventist schools to teach integrated STEM courses within the context of Mission-Focused Learning. Mission-Focused Learning is the hallmark of education at Loma Linda University.

“When we look at what society truly needs, it is individuals who are problem solvers, who are innovators,” says Carter, who in addition to serving as provost of Loma Linda University, is co-executive director of EXSEED.  

Fostering the development of such individuals, EXSEED is a partnership between K-12 educators, schools and organizations, as well as higher education partners including Andrews University, Kettering College, La Sierra University, Pacific Union College, Walla Walla University and the Pacific Union Conference, with Loma Linda University hosting and facilitating.

]]>
Thu, 30 Jul 2015 12:28:30 -0700
4264:22410 <![CDATA[Why go on a mission trip?]]> Courtney Haas Why do people go on short-term mission trips? Is it because they believe they can make a difference in the lives of those they meet? Is it because they think they have something to offer those living in other countries? Or is it perhaps a powerful opportunity to experience personal change?

Many participants join mission trips with a goal, purpose or desire — for many it is one of the reasons listed above. Many students want to change the world, and mission service is the first step on a path that allows them to fulfill a life of purpose.

Faculty or staff members may desire to apply their skills in an area where they can see tangible results of their work. Whatever the reason, the fact is that many people return from mission trips revived and motivated.

Just recently, two teams from Loma Linda University Health participated in short-term mission projects organized by Students for International Mission Service (SIMS) — one to Malawi and the other to Peru.

Jan Lloren, a School of Public Health student, shared upon her return from Malawi that after nearly two weeks of working in Africa, she felt that her perception of mission work had changed.

“Short-term missions may not necessarily give you the time to be down in the ditch and let God work a miracle unless you are willing to plead for God to allow that,” she shares. “But short-term missions do leave lasting impressions. Short-term mission trips may not always give you a million-dollar story, but they can bring about a change of mind, a change of purpose and the stabilizing of a commitment.”

Lloren adds, “I know these types of trips can strengthen faith so that it can [withstand] rougher places and tougher times.”

It is testimonies like Lloren’s that show the impact of short-term mission service in one’s own life. Through short-term mission trips, faculty, students and staff have the opportunity to travel, experience a foreign way of life and, just maybe, find their calling.

To learn more about SIMS and see how you can get involved in the future, visit lluglobal.com/SIMS

]]>
Thu, 23 Jul 2015 15:05:21 -0700
4264:22407 <![CDATA[Tuesday: Open house for Institute for Health Policy and Leadership ]]> On Tuesday, July 28, the Institute for Health Policy and Leadership at Loma Linda University Health is holding an open house from 3:00 to 5:30 p.m., with a dedication taking place at 4:00 p.m. The institute is located at 11209 Anderson Street in Loma Linda, at the southeast corner of Anderson Street and Prospect Avenue.

The institute is led by Gerald Winslow, PhD, director.

"The Institute for Health Policy and Leadership,” says Winslow, “is the realization of a dream shared by several of us within Loma Linda University Health. Built on the belief that healthy people flourish best in healthy communities, our institute desires to craft effective policies that enhance human wholeness.

“It’s an honor for me to work with a remarkably talented and passionate team of professionals,” he adds. “In partnership with the Adventist Health Policy Association, representing the five Adventist health systems in North America, I believe we have unprecedented opportunities to provide both regional and national leadership for important health policies.” 

Bringing wholeness to individuals and communities, the Institute for Health Policy and Leadership strives to integrate health policy research and education with leadership development. The goal is to improve the health of communities by building on Loma Linda University Health’s strong heritage of health promotion, disease prevention and whole person care.

The institute also holds that policy conversations should focus on health reform and not just health care reform, encouraging non-partisan solutions that are crucial to ensure affordable, quality health services, and long-term financial security.

The institute intends to bring together persons of diverse backgrounds in order to generate fresh insight regarding health policy solutions.

]]>
The team is, from right to left, Wonha Kim, MD, MPH, senior research scholar; Helen Jung, DrPH, MPH, senior health policy analyst; Winslow; Andrejs Galenieks, MPH, MArch, health policy analyst; and Mar]]> Thu, 23 Jul 2015 14:43:19 -0700
4264:22405 <![CDATA[How right were you?]]> Quiz shows were one way Loma Linda University Health shared its story with attendees at the 2015 General Conference Session of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, held in San Antonio July 2–11.

The questions covered health, research and history topics in relation to Loma Linda University Health.

Last Thursday’s issue of News of the Week included a sampling of the questions. Here are the answers, noted in bold:

Question: Which of these provided the most income for Loma Linda in 1910?

 A. The bakery
 B. The Sanitarium
 C. Water rights 

The convenience and quality of the bakery goods made them very popular — and their sale generated an impressive gain. The bakery earned more than twice as much as the Sanitarium.

Question: An ambitious new research program at Loma Linda University Health will attempt to do something new in the history of medicine. Which is it?

 A. Make healthy ice cream from turnips
 B. Define health at the cellular level
 C. Train rattlesnakes not to bite 

Loma Linda University Health researchers will define what health looks like at the cellular and molecular levels. Most biomedical research has focused on what causes disease, but the idea of what health looks like is an entirely new way of phrasing the question.

Question: In the findings of the Adventist Health Study-1, which of the following did not decrease the risk of colon cancer?

 A. Eating red meat
 B. Eating legumes
 C. Eating fruit (fiber) 

While eating legumes and fruit decreased the risk of colon cancer by up to 40 percent, eating red meat actually increased the risk of colon cancer by as much as 60 percent. All three diet factors suggested that a vegetarian diet decreased colon cancer risk.

Question: The LLU School of Dentistry has been graduating doctors of dental surgery for how many years?

 A. 38 years
 B. 48 years
 C. 58 years 

The school was first established in 1953, with the first graduating doctor in 1957.

Question: The language center of most right-handed adults is located:

 A. On the left side of the brain
 B. In the frontal lobe
 C. On the right side of the brain  

Most areas of speech processing develop in the second year of life in the dominant half of the brain, which often corresponds to the opposite of the dominant hand.

]]>
Thu, 23 Jul 2015 14:39:52 -0700
4264:22400 <![CDATA[Introducing 'Surgical Hospital']]> Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Health opened its Heart and Surgical Hospital in 2009. Throughout its first six years, the facility has grown quickly in both patient volume and services offered.

To reflect the diversity of procedures offered, the name is now simply Loma Linda University Surgical Hospital.

Surgical Hospital offers services including:

            • Minimally invasive surgery (laparoscopic and robotic)

            • Obstetric and gynecologic procedures

            • General surgery

            • Bariatric and metabolic surgery

            • Urology procedures

            • Ear, nose and throat surgery, and

            • Vascular surgery.

It has 28 beds, six operating rooms, two procedure rooms, two interventional suites and MRI and CT scanning services.

“Surgical Hospital offers treatment and healing for patients with a variety of needs,” says Lyndon Edwards, MBA, MHS, senior vice president of Surgical Hospital. “Our patients consistently report high satisfaction with their experience here. Our new name reflects the diversity of services we offer them.” 

]]>
Thu, 23 Jul 2015 10:29:20 -0700
4264:22402 <![CDATA[Seeking input for spiritual plan for Loma Linda University Health ]]> Spirituality has undergirded the work at Loma Linda University Health throughout its 110-year history.

Currently, Gerald Winslow, PhD, vice president for mission and culture, is gathering information and ideas for the development of a spiritual master plan for Loma Linda University Health.  

Between now and December, Loma Linda University Health will be engaged in developing this plan for the next quinquennium (2016-2020). 

President Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH, states that “Our intent is to move far beyond a simple measurement of events or criteria, to look deeply at the things that create spiritual values and yearnings for all, to see how much we can identify and codify these, and to establish a template that can hopefully be useful at other institutions, as well.”

As leaders prepare this plan, they welcome feedback from all sectors of Loma Linda University Health. 

You are invited to share your thoughts at this link: https://emg.wufoo.com/forms/z5uqhrq1jonn8g/

Please take a few minutes to complete the short survey by the end of the workday on Wednesday, July 29. The information will be used by the spiritual plan steering committee in helping shape the plan.

The committee members are Gerald Winslow, PhD, chair; Ron Carter, PhD, provost of Loma Linda University; Carla Gober-Park, PhD, MS, MPH, director, Center for Spiritual Life and Wholeness; Jim Greek, DMin, director of chaplain services, Loma Linda University Medical Center; Kathy McMillan, MA, director of employee spiritual care, Loma Linda University Medical Center; Jon Paulien, PhD, dean, School of Religion; Kevin Penington, student representative; Leo Ranzolin Jr., ThD, associate dean, School of Religion; Randy Roberts, DMin, senior pastor, Loma Linda University Church; Gilda Roddy, student representative; and Terry Swenson, DMin, chaplain of Loma Linda University.

]]>
Thu, 23 Jul 2015 11:00:50 -0700
4264:22322 <![CDATA[Keeping us compliant]]> Courtney Haas The corporate compliance department has just created its first issue of the Compliance Code newsletter. Published each quarter, this newsletter will contain helpful tips, hot topics and regulatory and privacy updates. It will help staff better understand some of the issues and challenges facing health care today and help staff think about different ways in which they can promote compliance in their respective areas. 

“This newsletter is a compliance team collaboration with input from key stakeholders,” Tonya Okon, executive director of compliance, says. “There is always the burning question of how to do things right, especially around the areas of proper business relationships and how to properly document and bill for the care we provide to our patients, and compliance helps with that by providing information about how certain laws and regulations apply to each aspect of our business. The driving force behind this newsletter is simply to give people the tools they need to incorporate compliance into their daily operations and to do their jobs effectively.”

One print copy will be distributed to each department but additional copies can be downloaded for distribution. To learn more about the Corporate Code newsletter and download your copy from the VIP page, please click here.

]]>
Thu, 16 Jul 2015 12:51:58 -0700
4264:22306 <![CDATA[Time-lapse video of bustle at General Conference exhibit]]> Advancement films ]]> Get a sped-up glimpse of the activity at the Loma Linda University Health exhibit. 

]]>
Thu, 16 Jul 2015 10:31:20 -0700
4264:22303 <![CDATA[What do you know about Loma Linda University Health?]]> Courtney Haas With the General Conference Session behind us, it is time to reflect on all that has been accomplished. Throughout the weeks leading up to the session, Loma Linda University Health faculty and staff collaborated to bring together stories and information about our rich history in a way that could be shared with visitors from around the world.

One interesting way this information was shared was in the form of quiz questions posed from a stage at the Loma Linda University Health exhibit.

Below is a sampling of multiple-choice questions that were asked during the quiz shows. Be sure to test your knowledge and check back next week to find out the correct answers.

History:

Which of these provided the most income for Loma Linda in 1910?

      A.   The bakery

      B.   The Sanitarium

      C.   Water rights

Research:

An ambitious new research program at Loma Linda University Health will attempt to do something new in the history of medicine. Which is it?

      A.   Make healthy ice cream from turnips

      B.   Define health at the cellular level

      C.   Train rattlesnakes not to bite

Adventist Health Study:

In the findings of the Adventist Health Study-1, which of the following did not decrease the risk of colon cancer?

      A.   Eating red meat

      B.   Eating legumes

      C.   Eating fruit (fiber)

Dentistry:

The LLU School of Dentistry has been graduating doctors of dental surgery for how many years?

      A.   38

      B.   48

      C.   58

Health:

The language center of most right-handed adults is located:

      A.   On the left side of the brain

      B.   In the frontal lobe

      C.   On the right side of the brain 

]]>
Thu, 16 Jul 2015 10:06:50 -0700
4264:22305 <![CDATA[Tens of thousands 'meet' Loma Linda University Health ]]> Jiggs Gallagher and Nancy Yuen Loma Linda University Health’s message of wholeness was communicated to people from 168 countries during the 60th session of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists in San Antonio, Texas. Some 30 employees, administrators, physicians and volunteers staffed the organization’s exhibit every day from July 2 to 11.

Many of the 65,000 General Conference delegates and visitors came to the exhibit. The conference was the largest and longest ever held in San Antonio.

After being welcomed, guests entered between gates replicating those on Anderson Street near the Mission Globe. They could choose from a variety of activities; the most popular was a “photo op” in front of a replica of “This is the Very Place.” This is a full-size sculpture of Ellen G. White, John Burden, and White’s son, Willie, depicting the moment on her first visit to campus in 1905 when White said the words that foretold the creation of today’s Loma Linda University Health. 

Activities on the Loma Linda University Health stage included quizzes about health topics and the storied history of Loma Linda. In addition to the lively quiz sessions, speakers highlighted Loma Linda’s signature areas of expertise. Danny Fontoura, MBA, vice president for wholeness, shared the landmark progress in the area of wholeness that experts at Loma Linda continue to pursue. Terry Butler, DrPH, presented Adventist Health Study findings and gave tips about how to live a healthier, longer life.

Another speaker was D.P. Harris, vice president for information services, who demonstrated computer games that Loma Linda is developing to help students learn about various systems of the body and to improve first responders’ efforts during major disasters, among other uses. Other life-changing takeaways included tips by School of Behavioral Health Dean Beverly Buckles, DSW, on how to bolster one’s resilience in the face of stress.

Visitors viewed Loma Linda University Health’s nationally distributed PBS television documentary series, “Life on the Line,” and a film trailer about the life and work of Wil Alexander, PhD, who founded the Center for Spiritual Life and Wholeness. Many of Alexander’s acquaintances, some whom he first met 50 years ago, paused to greet and visit with their friend and mentor. He was present in the booth for the length of the conference.

As the event progressed, there were opportunities for Loma Linda alumni to meet with representatives from their schools. In addition, President Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, hosted two receptions for them. 

Several video news crews taped stories and interviews on Loma Linda University Health, including Adventist Mission, Hope Channel and a group from Norway.

Part of every presentation included a focus on Vision 2020: The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow, Loma Linda University Health’s monumental plan for the future.  Videos showed the impact Vision 2020 will have in enhancing health care and health education, including a major building initiative on campus.

Many Loma Linda alumni live outstanding lives of service, including School of Medicine alumna Gillian Seton, MD, who, with Hart, made several presentations about her work as a deferred mission appointee (DMA) through Adventist Health International. Seton arrived at Liberia’s Cooper Adventist Hospital in March 2014, just before the infamous Ebola outbreak. She chose to stay and continue to help non-Ebola patients in need at the facility. In addition to speaking at the Loma Linda University Health exhibit and from the Mission Spotlight stage, Seton and Hart were interviewed live on the Alamodome stage before an audience of tens of thousands. 

In a demonstration of how Loma Linda University Health staff “Live It,” Hart gathered with more than 30 of his colleagues, family and friends before dawn Sunday, July 5, in downtown San Antonio. Wearing blue shirts in support of Loma Linda University Health’s mission of wholeness and living its mission, they participated with about 2,500 people in a 5K Fun Run and Walk sponsored by the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists’ health department, North American Division. 

Through the General Conference Session, Loma Linda University Health communicated how it is fulfilling its mission “to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ.”

]]>
Thu, 16 Jul 2015 10:21:44 -0700
4264:22311 <![CDATA[Seeking volunteers for A Walk to Remember]]> Heather Reifsnyder More than 200 volunteers are needed for the 10th annual “A Walk to Remember” event this October at Loma Linda University Health. A Walk to Remember is a memorial walk and service held in honor of National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month.

Volunteering at the event is its own reward, according to previous volunteers Meghan Clark, a phlebotomist at Loma Linda University Medical Center, and Tiffany Robinson, a marketing events specialist at Loma Linda University Health.

"I have had the privilege of volunteering for A Walk to Remember for the past six years and have met some amazing individuals while helping families in need,” Clark says. “Seeing families given the opportunity to remember and honor their loss is a very humbling and gratifying experience.”

Robinson says, "Volunteering for the past five years at A Walk to Remember has been a tremendously rewarding experience for me. I have had the privilege of working as a first point of contact for families as they arrive at the event.  Having the opportunity to lend a sense of warmth, compassion and sensitivity to the guests as they prepare to honor their loss has been extremely gratifying.”

Held across the nation each October, A Walk to Remember offers individuals opportunities to navigate through the difficult tragedy of losing a baby (pregnancy loss, stillbirth and infant loss of any kind).

Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital has participated since 2005. The year’s event will take place Oct. 11 at Loma Linda University Church from 3:30 p.m. until about 5:30 p.m. 

There are two different volunteer shifts available: 

• 1:30–4:30 p.m. or 

• 3:30–6:30 p.m.

If interested in volunteering, please visit www.lluh.org/AWTRvolunteer.

For additional questions, please contact Stevieann Beach at sbeach@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 16 Jul 2015 10:39:35 -0700
4264:22301 <![CDATA[Los Angeles Times features life in Loma Linda]]> Heather Reifsnyder “Studies have shown that Seventh-day Adventists, who have a broad range of ethnic backgrounds, live as much as a decade longer than the rest of us, which led to Loma Linda being identified as one of five longevity spots, called Blue Zones, on the planet and the only one in the United States.”

So notes the third paragraph of a feature story by reporter Mary MacVean published this week in the Los Angeles Times and headlined “Why Loma Linda residents live longer than the rest of us: They treat the body like a temple.”

The article prominently features the family of Daniel Fontoura, MBA, vice president for wholeness at Loma Linda University Health, as well as the long-running Adventist Health Studies conducted by Loma Linda University School of Public Health.

It also mentions the new Wholeness Institute at Loma Linda University Health and the planned facility of Loma Linda University Health – San Bernardino.

Find the full article here:

www.latimes.com/health/la-he-blue-zone-loma-linda-20150711-story.html#page=1

Happy reading!

1 Corinthians 6:19 —  “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God?” (New International Version of the Bible)

]]>
Thu, 16 Jul 2015 09:24:41 -0700
4264:22334 <![CDATA[Notes from the President -- July 2015]]> Dr. Richard Hart   July 2015
The Relationship

I recognize that each of you reading this monthly news note comes from a different background and perspective. I must also assume the only common link between all of us is some kind of interest and relationship with Loma Linda University Health, whether through working, studying, being treated as a patient, or a connection in some other way. I even assume that some of you may still wonder about Loma Linda — maybe as more of a critic than supporter. But if you keep reading, I want to try and explain a relationship that is very special.

I have talked before about Loma Linda University Health’s remarkable beginnings. During the first few years after the property’s purchase in 1905, many problems plagued that intrepid little band of pioneers. But they had an indomitable belief that they were part of something bigger, something ordained by God Himself that was behind this institution. So when they met a problem that seemed larger than themselves, as they often did, they rarely questioned whether the whole premise of Loma Linda was misguided. Rather, they asked how God would see them through that particular issue. This mold was set at the very beginning when Ellen White, one of our founders, declared “This is the very place,” and there was no turning back.

Institutional character develops over time and is a complex implementation of founding principles molded by convicted leaders with a belief in destiny. Loma Linda University Health is no different, and over the century-plus of its existence, a culture has emerged that is well settled and unique.

First, the leaders of this place adopted an approach that was built on fundamental principles of Christianity, now notarized in our expanded core values — Compassion, Integrity, Excellence, Teamwork and Wholeness. Our commitment to wholeness became part of our stated culture at our golden anniversary in 1955 with the theme “to make man whole,” which soon became our motto. The past several decades have seen this concept of wholeness refined and codified with techniques for modeling and teaching it both on campus and elsewhere.

Most educational institutions in the United States were started by church groups. But many of them have followed one of two tracks through their own histories — creeping toward secularization until their church linkage is minimal or forgotten, or becoming a “Bible college” fostering apologetics for their particular set of religious beliefs.

Loma Linda University Health has chosen a third route, one that has not changed for the 110 years of our existence. We are as true to this mandate today as when we were founded. The strategies have not even changed much, with service learning, compassionate patient care, and a profound faith in God at their core. This is coupled with a belief that modern scientific knowledge, even in the health sciences, is compatible with ultimate truth as defined in the Bible.

So how does Loma Linda define, articulate and follow this unique road through history? Certainly part of this is our continuous relationship with our founding church. Seventh-day Adventist beliefs have undergirded a set of living principles that are visible on our campus. These include:

• Each individual is valued as a child of God, regardless of background or culture,

• A life of service to others is desirable and the only road to complete happiness,

• Personal health is both valuable and attainable by appropriate lifestyle practices,

• Relationships with both God and people are important and need to be nurtured, and

• Curiosity and the pursuit of knowledge and discovery are planted in us by God.

We don’t, indeed we can’t, assume this unique culture will just carry on by itself. So we very intentionally recruit students and faculty who share these beliefs. We design programs and experiences that nurture this understanding. We adopt policies that affirm these positions. We monitor our success in sharing and promoting these concepts with our students, patients and community. And we pray regularly that God will help us maintain this campus commitment.

As this newsletter is being distributed, many of us have just returned from the General Conference Session of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in San Antonio, Texas. This meeting occurs every five years and is a time of spiritual renewal, policy refinement, election of new leaders, theology review, and social connecting. With over 70,000 people attending, even the meetings are complex. The church itself now has some 18 million members, with 8,000 schools, including 112 colleges and universities, educating 1.7 million students. In health care, we have 175 hospitals and some 450 clinics around the world, caring for millions of patients, as well as many other programs and institutions. Meeting and doing business can easily become big business despite constant attempts to maintain a spiritual focus. Major issues were discussed as the church seeks to maintain unity in a broad collection of cultures and understanding. With 93 percent of membership now outside North America, mainly in the developing areas of the world, cultural differences are often striking and can influence voting on key issues in ways that seem outdated and disappointing for many of us in the western world.

Despite these concerns, I deeply value the culture this church has bequeathed to Loma Linda. It has and will continue to profoundly guide our decisions and development. We face challenges today that seem to rival even those of our pioneers, but we share their confidence in the divine destiny of this place. Pray that we may keep the focus and commitment to this incredible heritage.

Sincerely,

 

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health 

“God’s little nation was His beachhead, not His boundary.”
                                                      –Derek Kinder

 

Vision 2020: The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow

Office of the President, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350

Copyright © 2015 by Loma Linda University

llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 16 Jul 2015 13:33:32 -0700
4264:22198 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- 'Bee' safe this summer]]> Courtney Haas While many health issues are based on lifestyle or genetics, there are also everyday dangers we cannot control but for which we can minimize risk.

Summer is in full swing as people are out “Living It” — celebrating holidays, taking vacations and spending time in the California sunshine.

With all this outdoor exposure, have you ever given much thought to stinging insects? Loma Linda University Health Health Library features a quiz on this very topic. “How Much Do You Know About Stinging Insects?” will test your knowledge on bees, wasps, allergic reactions and more. So go ahead and test yourself, and let’s see what we can learn to avoid painful stings in the future. 

]]>
Thu, 09 Jul 2015 14:04:21 -0700
4264:22201 <![CDATA[Roll out the welcome mat]]> Courtney Haas Between the General Conference Session currently underway and the EXSEED conference starting next week, Loma Linda University Health has rolled out the red carpet to welcome guests from around the world.

The GC Session has been and will continue to bring tour traffic to Loma Linda with Seventh-day Adventist representatives from Uruguay, Bolivia, the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, Guadalupe Conference, French Martinique Conference, Brazil, Indonesia New Caledonia Mission, London, Australia and throughout the United States.

In addition to this, the EXSEED — “Excellence in STEM Experimental Education” — conference will be held July 13-17. STEM means science, technology, engineering and math.

This collaborative program is intended to enhance the integration of STEM education in Adventist kindergarten-through-12th grade schools across the U.S., as well as other local schools.

Allotting space for nearly 100 participants, conference attendees will come from K-12 education as well as higher education partners, including Andrews University, Kettering College, La Sierra University, Loma Linda University, Pacific Union College, Walla Walla University and the Pacific Union Conference, along with five representatives from Jamaica.

The goal of EXSEED is to collaboratively support and empower educators in teaching the STEM disciplines within a Mission-Focused Learning context, which is the hallmark of education at Loma Linda University Health.

To learn more about Loma Linda University Health’s involvement in the GC Session or EXSEED please visit these websites:

]]>
Thu, 09 Jul 2015 14:10:34 -0700
4264:22178 <![CDATA[General Conference photo gallery and video]]> Heather Reifsnyder and Jenny Favela For the past week, Loma Linda University Health has been sharing its story with the worldwide Seventh-day Adventist Church during the 2015 General Conference Session in San Antonio, which runs July 2–11.

Loma Linda University Health has an exhibit at San Antonio’s Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center, and guests have steadily visited the space — just look at the video below — to speak with Loma Linda representatives. The exhibit features a film festival, presentations and quizzes, information about the Vision 2020 campaign and replicas of two sculptures on campus, “Mission Globe” and “This is the Very Place.”

Participate with Loma Linda University Health’s activities at General Conference on the web and via social media. For more pictures and news, visit www.lluhealth.org/gcsession and follow Loma Linda University Health on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram with #lluhgc.

Facebook.com/LLUHealth

Twitter.com/LLUHealth

Instagram.com/LLUHealth

One specific way to participate is by sharing a photo of yourself taken on campus at the original “Mission Globe” or “This is the Very Place” sculptures via the above social media sites with  #lluhgc.

Here is a time-lapse video taken at the Loma Linda Univerity Health exhibit in San Antonio. The second video is a virtual tour of the exhibit given by Tony Yang, assistant vice president for public affairs at Loma Linda University Health.

]]>
Thu, 09 Jul 2015 12:27:44 -0700
4264:22176 <![CDATA[Peanuts, popcorn and baseball]]> Briana Pastorino Loma Linda University Health is treating its family to a night of baseball under the stars at the annual All Star Appreciation Day, July 15.

Every employee, student and volunteer may receive up to six free tickets to the Inland Empire 66ers game, which starts at 7:00 p.m. at San Manuel Stadium, located at 280 South “E” Street, San Bernardino.

Tickets are available for pickup now through game day at the stadium. Please be sure to have your ID badge when picking up tickets and arriving for the game. 

In addition to watching the 66ers take on the Lancaster Jethawks, there will be giveaways and opportunity drawings. The grand prize will be a seven-day Mexican Riviera cruise for four, and you must be present to win. Opportunity tickets were sent in the mail. Employees scheduled to work that evening may still enter. Call for details.

More information is available by calling 1-877-LLUMC-4U. 

]]>
Thu, 09 Jul 2015 12:15:15 -0700
4264:22174 <![CDATA[Freeway and street closures at Interstate-10 and Anderson Street]]> The San Bernardino Associated Governments, CalTrans, and the cities of Loma Linda and San Bernardino are conducting an interchange improvement project at Interstate 10 and Anderson/Tippecanoe.  

Phase II of construction began earlier this year and is expected to last two years.

Below is information on closures Thursday and Friday nights, July 9 and 10. 

]]>
Thu, 09 Jul 2015 12:02:30 -0700
4264:22138 <![CDATA[Loma Linda tells its story to world church]]> Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Health is embracing an opportunity — one that only comes every five yearsto engage with the worldwide body of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, which is Loma Linda’s parent organization.

This afternoon, church members from around the globe will come together in San Antonio, Texas, to begin the 2015 General Conference Session. 

The president of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, Ted Wilson — also a Board of Trustees member at Loma Linda University Health — says, “During a General Conference Session, not only do we have the joy of worshipping together as a worldwide family; we have the opportunity to clearly focus on the mission of the church, and how best to accomplish that mission.”

“Mission is critical not only to the church, but to Loma Linda University Health, which exists to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ,” adds Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health, “not only locally and regionally but around the world.”

To share the story of how Loma Linda University Health accomplishes this, the organization is hosting an exhibit at the General Conference Session that brings the experience of being at Loma Linda to church members from every corner of the earth. 

The exhibit features replicas of the “Mission Globe” and “This is the Very Place” sculptures as well as the gates on Anderson Street welcoming visitors to campus. As visitors arrive at the exhibit, they will get a glimpse of visiting Loma Linda in person.

In addition to sharing a physical representation of Loma Linda University Health, the exhibit tells the stories of Loma Linda. At each of seven digital kiosks, visitors can read about the many ways Loma Linda University Health lives out its mission and shares its message of healing and wholeness through education, clinical care, outreach and research.

There will also be stations in the exhibit for presentations and quiz shows, a film festival and Vision 2020 for visitors to learn more about Loma Linda University Health.

For more information about our exhibit, please check out www.lluhealth.org/gcsession and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram with #lluhgc.

]]>
Thu, 02 Jul 2015 12:11:28 -0700
4264:22145 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- Don't try this at home]]> Courtney Beckwith Haas This upcoming weekend is sure to be filled with cookouts, family gatherings, watersports, games and everything deemed classic American fun. Saturday is the Fourth of July, and as we all take the time to remember our great nation’s birth, it is important to also remember using caution when choosing festive activities.

As southern California residents currently living in a drought, we need to especially adhere to the rules and regulations for using fireworks.

According to a statement from San Bernardino County, fireworks that explode, shoot into the air or move along the ground are officially deemed dangerous and are illegal to possess anywhere in the state of California. To learn more about the rules and regulations in San Bernardino County, including areas where fireworks are totally banned, please refer to the attachment below. 

In Riverside County, all fireworks are illegal — even sparklers. Report illegal fireworks to the Sheriff-Coroner of Riverside County via this online form.

If you live in an area where home fireworks are permitted, learn about proper safety procedures and the dangers related to fireworks through these articles on the Loma Linda University Health Health Library

 Officials agree that the safest and best way to celebrate this year is to not attempt your own fireworks show but to simply go to a community event with trained professionals.

This weekend is a time to celebrate. Have a safe and fun Fourth of July, everyone!

]]>
Thu, 02 Jul 2015 12:24:35 -0700
4264:22146 <![CDATA[Celebrating Independence Day]]> Courtney Beckwith Haas Loma Linda University Health wishes you and yours a happy and safe Fourth of July weekend as you celebrate freedom and strive to serve others. As 19th-century leader and orator Robert G. Ingersoll said, “He loves his country best who strives to make it best.”

]]>
Thu, 02 Jul 2015 12:26:02 -0700
4264:22143 <![CDATA[Commitment to quality improvement]]> Jiggs Gallagher Loma Linda University Medical Center administrators in the hospital executive leadership group recently honored participants in a new program called SIBR — structured interdisciplinary bedside rounding. 

Linda Soubirous, MPA, director of patient care, medical service line, LLU Medical Center, and her colleagues were trained in the technique, which provides streamlined communication between night shift nurses and the incoming day shift, as well as physicians.

“Jim Pappas, MD, our chief patient safety officer, learned about this program from Jason Stein, MD, medical director of the hospitalist service at Emory University in Atlanta,” says Soubirous.

“Dr. Stein was invited to lecture here regarding SIBR and was subsequently retained as a consultant, providing extensive training to Loma Linda University Health physicians and employees.”

SIBR is a patient-centered technique designed to enhance interdisciplinary communication and care planning, all in four minutes or less per patient. This conversation starts outside the door of the patient’s room and continues at the bedside. 

“We have much more effective and streamlined information about our patients, thanks to this program,” Soubirous says. “Our nurses, who often have five patients at a time, now see a bigger picture regarding their patients.”

Kerry Heinrich, CEO of the medical center, congratulated Soubirous and her staff on a job well done. The SIBR program is set to be used on other units as well.

The program was implemented as part of the New Outstanding Ways to Work (NOWW) project instituted earlier this year.

]]>
Pictured from left to right are Jan Kroetz, MN, chief nursing officer, LLU Medical Center; registered nurse Gina Jansen, educator for units 6100, 6200 and 6300; Soubirous; Terry Hansen, MPH, chief operating officer, LLU Medical Center; James Pappas, MD, chief patient safety officer; Be]]> Thu, 02 Jul 2015 12:21:28 -0700
4264:22150 <![CDATA[Third-quarter safety requirements]]> Heather Reifsnyder With July begins a new quarter at Loma Linda University Health, and that means it’s time for quarterly safety requirements.

Fire extinguisher training

The schedule for fire extinguisher training during third quarter is now available.

Hands-on fire extinguisher training is required for each employee every three years. To find out when you are due for this training, email your cost center or employee ID number to ehs@llu.edu.

See the scheduled and register here for fire extinguisher training.

For more information, call ext. 14019.

Quarterly safety reports

Each quarter, department heads and/or managers are responsible for identifying safety concerns, initiating correction and documenting them. These audits give departments the opportunity to remain prepared for regulatory agency inspections such as the Joint Commission, CMS, CDPH and the local Fire Department.

The following reports are due July 27. Both forms can be downloaded below this article.

Environment of care self-tour form

All hospital and clinical department heads should fill out this form. For more information, contact Preston Brown at ext. 58163 or prbrown@llu.edu.

• Safety inspection checklist

This is for department heads or designees of Loma Linda University and LLU Shared Services. For questions, please contact Jhobanny “Gio” Candray at ext. 58154 or jcandray@llu.edu.

The completed forms are for each department’s records only and are not to be sent to the office of environmental health & safety.

]]>
Thu, 02 Jul 2015 12:29:58 -0700
4264:22120 <![CDATA[Seniors 'Live It' -- Swing into health]]> At 74 years old, LLU alumna Arlene Blix knows how to “Live It.” She shows no signs of slowing down and knows what it means to live wholly through exercise and healthy eating. Watch the fun ways she incorporates play into her daily routine. She says, “My suggestion is to nurture your inner child. We all have one. It’s never too late.”

]]>
Thu, 25 Jun 2015 13:22:29 -0700
4264:22114 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- Math made easy for a healthy lifestyle]]> Courtney Beckwith Haas Have you ever wondered what your body mass index is? At what rate your body burns calories?  Or, if you smoke or drink, what that costs weekly?

Loma Linda University Health’s online health library has the answer to these questions and more with the use of easy calculators. Input your personal information and learn more about your body’s well-being.

Calculators include:

]]>
Thu, 25 Jun 2015 10:56:07 -0700
4264:22122 <![CDATA[A wild summer ride with learning to read]]> Heather Reifsnyder The School of Allied Health Professions department of communication sciences and disorders is holding an intensive phonological awareness and literacy day camp July 20 through July 31.

The program is designed for incoming kindergarten through fourth-grade students who are either having difficulty in beginning reading and language or who are at-risk for difficulty with reading and language.

“Participants will have fun while focusing on the building blocks of reading: literature awareness, syllable awareness, rhyme awareness, segmenting and blending,” says Jennifer St. Clair, MS, assistant professor and clinical coordinator, department of communication sciences and disorders. 

Individual speech and language services may also be available.

The cost is $60 per child for the two-week-long camp. Register online at https://campscui.active.com/orgs/LomaLindaUniversity. After June 29, the price rises to $80 per child.

Morning sessions run from 9:15 a.m. to noon, with afternoon sessions taking place from 1:15 to 4 p.m.

For more information, e-mail jstclair@llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 25 Jun 2015 13:27:23 -0700
4264:22115 <![CDATA[Alert to office closures]]> Courtney Beckwith Haas Loma Linda University Medical Center finance department and Loma Linda University Health Services accounting department have some new updates for you.

The LLU Medical Center finance department is in the process of moving locations from Mary M Apartments to Mountain View Plaza suite 137.  The move is taking place Thursday, June 25, and Friday, June 26.

Due to the move, the department will not be able to issue accounts payable checks June 26.

The office will be up and operational on Monday, June 29. The number remains the same: 909-558-4385 or extension 44385. 

In addition to this moving notice, the Loma Linda University Health Services accounting department is issuing a notice of closure for July 14while the staff is attending a training seminar. 

]]>
Thu, 25 Jun 2015 10:57:40 -0700
4264:22118 <![CDATA[View the second season of 'Life on the Line']]> Last year, Loma Linda University Health successfully launched a national documentary television program, “Life on the Line,” featuring stories of the resilience of humankind.

Now “Life on the Line” is back with a second season. Experience Loma Linda University Health’s mission to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ as inspiring stories come to life in your living room.

"Life on the Line” seasons 1 and 2 are scheduled to begin airing on KVCR, channel 24, on Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m. starting July 1. For the schedule and more information visit www.lifeontheline.tv.

Season 2 trailer:

 

Season 2 episode synopses

“Rough Beginning”

A newborn’s fight to survive

After an unexpected pregnancy, Janett and Gian find out their baby boy will be born with a life-threatening condition called gastroschisis, a birth defect in which the intestines are outside of the body. Without immediate medical treatment, baby Theodore’s life will be in danger as soon as he is born. Follow the journey of a beautiful family whose bond grows stronger during their biggest life challenge and the doctors and nurses who pull together with hopes of giving Theodore a future. 

“The Aftermath”

Healing the unseen trauma

In one of the worst storms on record, Typhoon Haiyan hit the Philippines with devastating force. More than 6,000 people died and thousands more were displaced, leaving a whole region left to face loss, hardship and depression. In the aftermath of the typhoon, an international behavioral health trauma team touches down to help those facing grief and post-traumatic stress. Journey through the eyes of Nona, a single mother of six, as she shares her story of survival, and Joward, a local pastor determined to help the people in his community.

“The Match”

The selfless act of saving a life

A childhood friendship — and Facebook — could save John Brannon’s life. While on the brink of kidney failure, John reunites with an old friend who suddenly realizes that she has the ability to save him through organ donation. Meanwhile in the same hospital, 5-year-old Chealsey Melendez is diagnosed with stage-4 cancer. Doctors harvest her own stem cells and freeze them so they can be transplanted back into her marrow at a later date, all in a desperate attempt to save her life.

“The Lost Generation”

A grandmother’s sacrifice becomes an orphan’s lifeline.

Before 1984, the life expectancy in the small African country of Lesotho was 70 years. Today it’s 40. The HIV/AIDS epidemic has ravaged the mountain kingdom, leaving scores of orphans and grandmothers to pick up the pieces of a shattered country. Instead of retirement, the elderly are facing a future of hard labor caring for their grandchildren until the day they die.

“Hidden Pain”

Sometimes real wounds lie below the surface.

With the growing pressure and stress teenagers face today, a silent epidemic is on the rise. One in five teenagers cuts or self-injures his or her body. This episode tells the story of three adolescents who strive to live life without hurting themselves and raises awareness about this destructive coping mechanism and the help that is available. 

“Footsteps of the Unknown”

Sometimes when you have nothing, hope is everything.

With overwhelming widespread poverty and disease in Ethiopia, it’s estimated that one in eight children is orphaned or abandoned. Yet in the western highlands, in a town called Gimbie, lies a hospital where nonprofit workers take these lonely children under their wings. Follow the journey of baby Bella, whose mother abandoned her at the hospital, and be inspired by the heroes who commit their lives to making the world a brighter place for these children.

]]>
Thu, 25 Jun 2015 13:18:39 -0700
4264:22061 <![CDATA[Dental patient parking lot now limited to patients only]]> Courtney Beckwith Haas As of July 1, the dental patient parking lot will be restricted to patient use only on a Sunday-through-Friday basis. The lot will be open for additional parking on Saturdays.

Vehicles that have not been validated by the School of Dentistry are subject to a $100 patient parking violation fee. All employees, staff, students and faculty are required to register their vehicles with the online parking system and park in their designated lots. Please take this opportunity to review your online parking accounts to confirm authorized parking areas.

The lot will close nightly at 4:00 p.m.; therefore evening staff who are parked in the dental lot will need to park in the West Hall parking structure. This structure was designed with additional lighting and a pedestrian bridge for user accessibility and safety. 

Service permitted vehicles will need to park in the service lot located behind the parking structure, LOT G West. Loma Linda University Health fleet vehicles will be authorized to park in the service space located in the patient area for short-term parking only, a maximum of two hours. 

]]>
Thu, 18 Jun 2015 11:00:19 -0700
4264:22065 <![CDATA[Celebration of Life provides heartfelt laughter, inspiration and hope]]> Nancy Yuen At 12:30 on June 7, the Wong Kerlee International Conference Center began to fill with cancer survivors attending Celebration of Life. They and their family members and friends were joined by physicians and staff who had provided care during their treatment.

During the next hour and a half, the room would be filled with heartfelt laughter, tears, and ultimately inspiration and hope.

Judy Chatigny, MSN, executive director, Loma Linda University Cancer Center, welcomed the audience. She stated that now there are more than 14 million cancer survivors in the United States. She emphasized the importance of gathering and visiting with others who have survived or are living with cancer, encouraging each other and celebrating milestones.

Celebration of Life is an international event held the first Sunday in June, providing celebration for survivors and inspiration for those recently diagnosed. It is also a gathering of support for families and an outreach to the community. The theme of this year’s event was “Inspiring a future of hope.”

Mark Reeves, MD, PhD, director, Loma Linda University Cancer Center, discussed the new future of cancer care. He traced the history of cancer treatment from 1991, when Richard Nixon declared war on cancer. The National Cancer Institute was established at the National Institutes of Health. “For the first time,” Reeves said, “the rates of death from cancer peaked, then went down.” The trend has continued, he reported, with numbers of deaths from cancer becoming lower each year.

According to Reeves, there have been victories in treatment of testicular cancer, leukemia and colon cancer, among others. Research has led to treatments that are more effective with fewer side effects. These include treatments that target individual cancer cells, and focused radiation (proton therapy). Reeves shared that Loma Linda University Health is fortunate to have a powerful tool in cancer treatment — the James M. Slater, MD Proton Treatment and Research Center.

There are now 229,000 patients alive who were diagnosed with metastatic colon cancer. “Twenty years ago, each of these patients would have died,” he said, thanking each of the patients who have altruistically agreed to participate in cancer research.

“Stories are important,” he said, inviting cancer survivor Jeanne Malcuit to share her story. Malcuit was diagnosed with stage 2B breast cancer after discovering a lump in her chest on Father’s Day. While initially she felt as if everything had been taken away from her, “I decided not to sit in a chair,” she said. She began running, completed a half marathon and is now training for a 60-mile bike ride.

Dilys Brooks, MDiv, associate campus chaplain, talked about relying on her Savior and her faith during her own journey back to health after being diagnosed with a heart condition. Brooks was motivated by the love of her family — her husband and her two children.

This year Courage to Care awards were presented by Katie Kroetz, whose uncle Don passed away in 1997 after battling leukemia. Katie’s grandmother, Jan Kroetz, MN, began giving the award to honor exceptional oncology nurses after her son Don's passing. Two nurses, Becki Yartzoff and Lexine Thall, were honored this year with Courage to Care Leadership Awards.

The Celebration of Life event, which celebrated its 24th year at Loma Linda University Health, is sponsored by the Loma Linda University Cancer Center.

]]>
Thu, 18 Jun 2015 14:32:38 -0700
4264:22048 <![CDATA[Five ceremonies cap commencement season]]> This past Sunday, June 14, five of Loma Linda University’s eight professional schools held their commencement ceremonies. This concluded graduation season 2015, as the first three schools held their commencements May 24.

The schools of Allied Health Professions, Behavioral Health, Nursing, Public Health, and Religion conferred degrees upon their graduates during the Sunday ceremonies held at the Drayson Center’s Opsahl Gymnasium.

Graduates by school:

School of Allied Health Professions: 565
School of Behavioral Health: 95
School of Nursing: 200
School of Public Health: 137
School of Religion: 16 

During the ceremonies, five individuals were honored with institutional awards.

Juan Carlos (J.C.) Belliard, PhD, MPH

Belliard is assistant vice president for community partnerships and diversity as well as director of the Institute for Community Partnerships, Loma Linda University Health. He is also an associate professor at the School of Public Health. For his initiatives that provide health care to diverse cultural settings and that establish and strengthen institutional-community relationships, he received the Community Engagement Award at the School of Public Health commencement.

 

Jerry Daly, MSLS, MA

Daly is assistant vice president for global outreach, Loma Linda University Health; associate director, Global Health Institute; administrative director, Overseas Heart Surgery Team, and assistant professor, School of Public Health. For his passion for and commitment to global missions, Daly was honored with the Global Service Award at the School of Public Health commencement.

 

Marilyn M. Herrmann, PhD

Herrmann recently retired as dean of the Loma Linda University School of Nursing.  Now dean emerita, she was also a longtime faculty member and administrator at the school. For her leadership and exemplary service, which has translated into competent and committed nurses and nurse educators, and for her long-standing career, Herrmann was awarded the University Distinguished Service Award at the School of Nursing commencement.

 

Audrey V. Howard, EdD

Audrey V. Howard is director of academic publications and of the Loma Linda University Press. In recognition of a career dedicated to capturing the heart and mind of Loma Linda University Health through "words that work," Howard received the University Distinguished Service Award at commencement ceremonies for the School of Allied Health Professions.

 

Janice Zumwalt, MS, MBA

Zumwalt is associate director, Global Health Institute, Loma Linda University Health; executive director for international affairs, Loma Linda University Medical Center; and assistant professor of nursing in both the School of Nursing and the School of Public Health. For her commitment to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ and for her efforts to bring wholeness and hope to humanity through successful international collaborative health care initiatives and projects, Zumwalt was awarded the Global Service Award at the School of Nursing commencement.

]]>
Wed, 17 Jun 2015 16:44:54 -0700
4264:22043 <![CDATA[Get cookin' with Full Plate recipes]]> The Loma Linda University Drayson Center preventive care clinic presents a series of summer cooking classes demonstrating Full Plate Diet recipes.

Leading the classes will be Karen Breyer, MPH, in the Drayson Center's Basaraba Garden on June 23, June 30, July 7, July 14, July 28 and August 4. Classes are scheduled from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Drayson members can register for $75; non-members will pay $85.

For more information, call 909-558-8690.

The preventive care clinic is a part of the School of Public Health. Learn more about the clinic’s services on its website

]]>
Wed, 17 Jun 2015 13:42:11 -0700
4264:22046 <![CDATA[Loma Linda to Bolivia: service that spans the continents]]> Advancement Films This past weekend was a time for celebration as graduates, their friends and families took time to focus on all that they have accomplished.

While at Loma Linda University, many students choose to use their skills in various outreach opportunities offered through the campus organizations Community-Academic Partners in Service (CAPS) and Students for International Mission Service (SIMS).

The following videos were shown June 12 during a Focus on Graduates vespers held at Loma Linda University Church. They feature the work of three graduates who chose to make mission service and local outreach a part of their life.

]]>
Wed, 17 Jun 2015 16:20:17 -0700
4264:22004 <![CDATA[Notes from the President -- June 2015]]> Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   June 2015
Graduation 2015

Loma Linda University will graduate 1,569 students this commencement season from its doctoral, master’s, bachelor’s, associate, and a few certificate programs. I will have the privilege of shaking hands with most of them. I look into their eyes as they greet their dean and me and often wonder — where will this graduate be in five years, 10, or 20? What kind of world are they entering? What will happen to health care? Hospitals? Costs? Insurance coverage? New techniques and treatments? Lifestyle and behaviors? Reimbursement strategies?

School of Dentistry graduatesAnother set of questions quickly follows. Have we prepared them well? Have they realistically thought about what is out there? Do they have the professional knowledge and skills, along with the values and character to see them through? While I have full confidence in our faculty and curricula, there is much more at stake here than just the students’ academic preparation. Change keeps coming faster and faster, with often unintended consequences. Resiliency becomes an essential. Mistakes will be made. Are our grads ready to get back up and move on?

Our students come from a wide variety of backgrounds. Some are looking for a way up and out of the poverty and turmoil of their past. Others are looking to give back and actively seek out difficult working environments, here and abroad, as part of living their dream of service. These two groups have been rubbing elbows with each other in the classrooms and clinics, developing unlikely friendships that often survive great differences. Watching them support, hug, and cry with each other as they part is a moving scene each graduation season.

The number of graduates by discipline is an interesting reflection on the changing interests and perceived market needs for each area of health care. Our major four-year doctoral programs continue to be very desirable. On May 24, the School of Pharmacy graduated 78 doctors of pharmacy, the School of Dentistry 120 doctors of dental surgery, and Medicine 173 physicians. School of Medicine graduates The School of Medicine also graduated 37 from the master’s and PhD programs in the basic sciences. The physical therapy doctoral program (DPT) will graduate 111 on June 14. Fully three-fourths of our students are in master’s and doctoral programs, with the balance studying for bachelor’s degrees and in associate degree programs in such areas as nursing, dental hygiene, and those offered by the School of Allied Health Professions. Below are two tables that show the different degrees students are receiving and the number of graduates by school for this year. The disparity between the totals is due to a few students receiving dual degrees.

We continue to have about 10 percent of our student body come from some 90 different countries. They bring a rich diversity to the classroom discussions and campus activities. We value the exposure their presence gives to our other students who better understand a global perspective and the cultural differences that often separate us.

Finally, another group is “graduating” that often slips off quietly with hardly anyone noticing. There are over 200 physicians each July who have finished their medical residencies in various specialties, usually of three to five years in length, and start into practice. We have about 700 of these residents in our Loma Linda University Health network each year, gaining the necessary skills and certifications to be specialists as pediatricians, surgeons, internists and radiologists, just to name a few. This training is the crucial final step in preparing a graduate physician, as no one can go out as a “general practitioner” anymore. These residents have graduated from medical school at Loma Linda or elsewhere across the country, and applied to do their specialty training at Loma Linda University Health. We consider them alumni as well as our regular graduates and are proud of their accomplishments.

Walls of Loma Linda University Health - San BernardinoIn closing, I want to give an update on our planned campus in San Bernardino. The walls are going up! We are delighted with the steady progress on this facility, which remains on budget and on target to open early next summer. Besides providing valuable clinical services to the community, it will also provide a unique educational milieu, where high school grads earning certificates, professional students earning degrees, and residents gaining specialty certification will work side by side, teaching each other. Our hope and expectation is that the training will extend in all directions among these groups, as different perspectives and cultures are explored and understood. You can watch progress on the live webcam at lomalindauniversityhealth.org/sanbernardino/live-video.page. The image updates every several seconds.

Cordially yours,

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

2015 graduates by school

Graduates by school

Degrees conferred in 2015

]]>
Thu, 11 Jun 2015 15:54:44 -0700
4264:21995 <![CDATA[Milestone employee anniversaries celebrated with banquets]]> Heather Reifsnyder Because of the high value with which Loma Linda University Health holds its employees, it celebrates those who reach milestone employment anniversaries with annual banquets.

The 2015 banquets took place June 2, 3 and 4 at the Drayson Center gymnasium — which was transformed into an elegant setting of greens and golds. Separate banquets took place for different entities: Loma Linda University, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Loma Linda University Shared Services and Loma Linda University Health Care.

Several employees received special awards for exemplifying the values of Loma Linda University Health — compassion, integrity, excellence, teamwork and wholeness.

LLU honorees
Jerry Lee – Integrity
Evelyn Roach – Compassion
Ardis Wazdatskey – Excellence

Loma Linda University Health Care
Ann Elliott – Compassion
Elizabeth Bates – Teamwork
Kim De La Torre – Excellence
Amelia Maeda – Integrity
Ana Polanco – Wholeness

Loma Linda University Medical Center
Jamie DeView – Integrity and compassion
Emily Ndlela – Teamwork
Rudolph Pojoh – Excellence

Loma Linda University Shared Services
Antonio Burruel – Integrity
Pauline Deeb – Excellence
Deanna Walters – Excellence

Below are the names of all employees recognized for 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45 and 50 years of service. Scroll down or click below to view the corporate entity of your choice.

Loma Linda University

5 years

Nancy Appleby
Ethan Armstrong
Lisa Benanti
Kristina Benfield
Rosalia Campion
Doreen Cornejo
Casey Crandell
Carla Deniz
Christopher Denny
Brian Distelberg
Bryan Do
Alejandra Enriquez
Dana Gonzalez
Mary Hamer
Eunice Han
Marina Hoecker
Serkan Inceoglu
James Ingersoll
Nellie Leon
Wanda Lewis
Iris Mamier
Guilherme McConnell
Irmgart Mitchell
Rachel Neher Nevatt
Fayette Nguyen Truax
Christina Nobriga
Monica Pacheco
Floyd Palitang
Eryn Pennell
Joylynn Perkins
Tina Pruna Arocho
Dwight Rice
Paul Richardson
Michael Rister
Monica Romero
Emil Rudobeck
Lorena Salto
Viviana Sanchez
Racksammy Sida
Ryan Sinclair
Stephen Sledge
Corey Smith
Salvador Soriano Castell
Michelle Thomas
James Trott
Melva Wyatt

10 years

Bonnie Alexander
Louisa Amis
Marjorie Arnett
Joseph Arnett
Nadim Baba
Khaled Ba-Hjri
Jimmie Banta
Kevin Bell
Monvyl Berto
Walleska Bliss
Danilo Boskovic
Shirley Bristol
Pauline Joyce Calla
Rafael Canizales
Norma Carrillo
Elena Ceniceros
Yanina Chambi
Rebecca Cheung
Terry Cisneros
Jacqueline Coats
Stanley Cook
Tammy Davis
Zachary Downs
Marquis Dubois
Mary Ann Esperanza
Carmen Fernandez
Valeri Filippov
Melina Gomez
Karen Gonzales
Christine Groom
Richard Hartman
Elvin Hernandez
Antonia Hernandez
Erin Hoch
Karen Jaceldo-Siegl
Heather Javaherian
Lilia Jimenez
Jessica Kim
Edward Ko
Michelle Lake
Andy Lampkin
Katie Layon
Susan Lloyd
Mazlan Mamora
Ronald Mataya
Susan Mathew
Brigit Mendoza
Melinda Mercado
Froylana Miller
Rashid Mosavin
C Lisa Nelsen
Brenden Neumann
Rajeev Philip
Sebastian Popescu
Edelweiss Ramal
Bonnie Retamozo
Alina Rico
Holli Riter
Jennifer Rodriguez
Christopher Rosario
Sheri Ryder
Leticia Sanchez
Caitriona Sansonetti
Edirlei Santos
Thomas Sawyer
Christiane Schubert
Huma Shah
Curt Sheline
Andrew Sison
Christopher Thomas
Lucian Toma
Sigve Tonstad
Misael Wagwag
Randall Walker
Kylie Watts
Stanley White
Linda Williams
Christine Wilson
David Wolf
John Won
Yvonne Wren
Todd Wulff

15 years

Sharline Bates
Kenneth Bielas
M Buckman
Daniel Caministeanu
Mary Campbell-Beachler
Mary Ann Catalon
Alan Connelly
Anthony Cuevas
Miriam Domingo
Penelope Duerksen-Hughes
Charles Dugaduga
William Fifer III
Maria Filippova
Margaret Frank
Eileen Fry-Bowers
Leonel Galvan
Katherine Gattuso
Mahmood Ghamsary
Michael Hall
Robert Handysides
Alan Herford
Douglas Huenergardt
Chi Hung-Lee
Tami Jacques
Wesley James
Evangeline Kalangi
Sean Lee
Brad Martin
Grant McAuley
Gregory Mitchell
Maria Moldovan
Jerl Noval
Andre Obenaus
Wesley Okumura
Anneke Pangkey
Barbara Parker
David Patino
Marisela Perez
Kathleen Respicio
Shirley Reyes
Teri Reynolds
Francis Roy
Stephanie Salazar
Nicoleta Schampek
Andrew Shepard
Alicia Silva
Francis Sirna
Shanalee Tamares
April Thorson
Hilda Trinidad
Padma Uppala
Daniel Valdez
Karen Westphal
Loretta Wilber

20 years

Linda Ball
Juan Belliard
Rebecca Brewster
Noha Daher
Richard Davidian
Nicceta Davis
Lisette Desia
Jeremy Edwards
James Farrage
Michiel Fitzpatrick
Terry Fraser
Debra Friesen
David Gilsdorf
William Hayes
Rosa Herring
Paul Hisada
Simon Hong
Walter Hughes III
Eric Johnson
Magda Lavergne
John Marks
Julia Martez
Evelyn Massey
Michelle Minyard-Widmann
Susanne Montgomery
Jan Nick
Valerie Nusantara
Que Osler
Sharon Pavlovich
Jerrold Petrofsky
Franklin Quisbert
Sujatha Rajaram
Daniel Rotaru
Wendy Roth
Reinhard Schulte
David Shavlik
Samuel Soret
Wayne Tanaka
Barbara Valadez
Andrea Walker
Marie Worcester
Richard Wysong
Yue-Ying Ying

25 years

Lillian Andrade
Rebekah Bartos
Ruben Bazan
Donna Becker
Beverly Buckles
Kent Chow
Elmer Dugaduga
Donna Eick
Henry Garcia
Frances Goodman
Barbara Hernandez
Jayakaran Job
Theresa Joseph
Christina Khachatourian
Nancy Kofoed
Jaime Lozada
Helen Martinez
Roland Neufeld
Rose Pueschel
Shirley Rais
Marcia Stirl
Larry Trapp

30 years

Danilyn Angeles
Hector Betancourt
Lawrence Chinnock
Rosita Coeur-Gutierrez
E Edwards
Donn Gaede
Dynnette Hart
Craig Jackson
G. Jackson
Cindy Kosch
Brenda Kreutzer
David Lopez
John Morgan
David Morris
Rodney Opp
Frank Rendel
Thomas Rogers
Paz Valenzuela
Debra Warmouth
Ardis Wazdatskey
Miriam Yanez
Steven Yellon

35 years

Laura Alipoon
Patrick Crosson
Anthony Gutierrez
Armando Hernandez
Keiko Khoo
Marian Llaguno
Martein Moningka
Steven Morrow
Evelyn Roach
Cheryl Simpson
David Stanton
Nancy Testerman
James Walters

40 years

Ronald Dailey
Daila Gridley
Gordon Hewes
Jerry Lee
Bonnie Meyer
Madge Oh

45 years

Ann Ekroth Yukl
Donna Thorpe

50 years

Ronald Wilcox


LLU Health Care

5 years

Debbie Aguilar
Yesenia Alamilla
Marcelina Bolanos
Nilsa Bonilla
Kristi Byington
Vanessa Cayetano
Patricia Chaname-Collins
Michael Clark
Tierra Cole
Laura Daniel Jimenez
Kimberly De La Torre
Stephanie Derragon
Stephanie Eis
Amanda Escalante-Coronel
Katrina Fernandez
Maria Flores
Mary Garcia
Yvette Garcia
Francisco Gomez
Eric Gonzalez
Rocio Gonzalez
Wendy Gonzalez
Lizbeth Guerrero Chagolla
Sabrina Gutierrez
Yazmin Hernandez
Nicole Hernandez Jensen
Herlinda Huerta
Lannes Imbott
Mary Jewell
Kiema Jones
Mayra Jordan
Gloria Killion
Zeresh King
Julia Kramer
Joanna Lopez
Glenda Lorenz
Gilbert Luna
Rachel Marabel
Andrea Mecey
Delena Mitchell
Maija Morales
Valerie Mosqueda
Meghan Negrete
Joan Nevin
Miriam Northington
Carla Oliver
Martha Onate
Jacqueline Orduna
Esmeralda Orozco
Cathy Ortiz
Kelly Pimentel
Bezaleel Rengifo
Steven Roberts
Stephanie Rocha
Gretchan Rodriguez
Mercedes Rueda
Mariella Salazar
Guadalupe Sanchez
Erica Serrao Leiva
Alejandra Solis Gonzalez
Sally Sparks
Arvin Tanag
Gabriela Tellez
Moises Tellez
Ana Torres
Berenice Torres
Priscilla Verales
Melissa Villegas
Terry Westbrook
Therese Witrago
Balvina Zamora
Cheriee Zamora

10 years

Sandra Adams
Adriana Aguilar
Patricia Aguilar
Lalita Allen
Kristen Anthony
Brian Carmichael
Amy Casey
Jessenia Cervantes
Maria Cervantes
Cecilia Chavana
Joann Chavez
Tanya Custodio
Wayne Davidson
Gabriele DeWitt
Chauntay Donahue
Andrea Dorrance
Lisa Ducca
Lisette Farrokhpey
Rebecca Fuentes
Diane Garcia
Dalia Garrido
Linda Gilbreth
Mark Hansen
Sarah Heffern
Patricia Higgins
Sunny Horta
James Hutchings
Isis Ibrahim
Lissette Ibrahim
Margarita Iraheta
Ursula Islas
Timea Johnson
Suzanne Leininger
Vanessa Lomeli
Sylvia Lucero
Nancy Lundgren
Michael Mahoney
Ruth McBay
Carmen Mejia
Manuel Mendoza
Iris Merrill
Adriana Morris
Jessica Mulligan
Heidi Myers
Shoshanna Nelson
Deborah Nescher
Tricia Nevatt
Ruthie Oropesa
Eva Pacheco Lopez
Thelma Penaloza
Claudia Perez
Agnes Price
Carmen Ramirez
Eunice Ramirez
Daisy Reyes
Rosa Rivas
Julie Rossano
Debra Shea
Bridget Simien
Julie Tapia
Rosalinda Tinoco
Geanette Uy
Nadina Valdivia
Charlene Walker
Gabriela Wardell
Catharine Winter
Amy Wossum-Bangs

15 years

Holly Anderson
Erlinda Arreygue
Elizabeth Bates
Sonya Castillo
Donald Cole
Sally Dyer
Imelda Edmonds
Brandi Evans
Diana Febres
Rise Forch
Luz Gallegos
Crystal Garcia
Catherine Gonzalez
Dina Guillen
Loretta Gutierrez
Taryn Henley
Cathy Howell
James Hughes
Karen James
Thomasene Knox
Mary Kolb
Nancy LeRoy
Loyola Long
Dina Lucas
Diane McElroy
Leonor Mendez
Jennifer Miller
Gena Montoya
Ana Polanco
Cynthia Smith
Jeffrey Smith
M Solorzano
Tamera Sweeney

20 years

Evelyn Agcaoili
Francisca Aguilar
Jane Arden
Maricela Balderas
Lila Dalton
Carmen Graciano
Roger Grove
Michelle Hawkins
Barbara Hephner
Carolyn Jacobs
Aleathia Jared
Sylvia Jimenez
Laura Jordan
Melanie Khorozian
Melanie Marrero
Judith Rosaasen
Jefferson Stephens
Eve Summers
Ladawna Tigard
Maureen Webb
Leticia Zuniga

25 years

Jennifer Borden
Maria Bradbury
Tamara Downs
Judy Gates
Erin Gray
Eva Hanapin
Hildeliza Olmos
Emily Rehage
Loida Reyes
Michelle Saucedo

30 years

Beverly Beck
Irene Fiori
Michelle Hardeman
Joanne Hayman
Linda Healy
Mary Meza
Clement Rodriguez Jr.
Debra Selle
Linda Stewart

35 years

Johannah Corselli
Laney Kent
Kathy Langdon-Fore
Lavonne Lipscomb
Julie Moore
Jeri Roberts
Laura Stallings
Maxine Ullery

40 years

Paula Ekema
Ann Elliott
Marlene Ota

50 years

Amelia Maeda


LLU Medical Center/all hospitals

5 years

Jose Acosta
Nicole Adams
Christina Aguirre
Olamide Alabi
Maria Alcones
Frankis Almaguel Bruzon
Jessie Alvarado
Sandra Alvarez
Ginan Amen
Pin Amornvut
Kehinde Anderson
Loramin Andres
Katsumi Applebury
Eve Arnett
Rosemary Astorga
Albert Ayawaila
Marjorie Badaraco
Brook Balos
Stanley Barnes
Lucina Bartlett
Sonjib Bayen
Kimberly Beardeaux
Bettina Beck
Ricardo Bedolla
Jesus Belgara
Krysten Bell
Paulette Bentsen
Nataliya Biskup
Nathan Blunt
Clark Botha
Leah Botimer
Christopher Bower-Fjellstrom
Deborah Brannen
Christopher Bridenstine
Brittany Britt
Julie Brock
Steven Brooks
Michelle Brouwer
Carmelita Browning
Geoffrey Brummett
Scott Brush
Amy Buchanan
Gail Budner
Steven Bushnell
Jesse Bustillos
Willy Caan
Jennifer Calderon
Marlene Canas
Viviana Carrera
Kevin Carrington
Eddie Castaneda
Reuben Castro
Abu Chakma
Rulen Chakma
Erasmo Chamorro
Luis Chavez Larios
Crissa Chodakauskas
Amanda Christianson
Carissa Cianci
Janelle Cicero
Patricia Clark
Cheyenne Conlon
Janira Coria
Maria Cortes
Daniel Cortez
Courtnie Cotton
Alexandros Coutsoumpos
Kymberly Craft
Shauna Crawford
Leidi Cruz Ocana
Teresa Cuerpo
Marilou Daswani
Barbara Davis
Kymmberly Davis
Teresa Davis
Aiyana Davison
Richard De La Rosa
Aldrin Dewri
Marichu Dewri
Rezina Dewri
Kristin Diaz
Kaori Diehl
Vung Dixon
Sharlianne Dodson
Christina Dulin
Tamara Duling
Katherine Durham
Ryan Eads
Ashley Elston Hurdle
Andrea Enciso
Holly Enrico
Tina Escano
Amy Escobedo
James Eubanks
Andrew Ewing
Shelly Ewing
Mohammed Fakir
Dhee Ferraren
Melissa Ferro
Robert Fischetti
Jonathan Flores-Diaz
Janice Fonda
Melissa Foote
Vendla Foster
Linda Francis
Daniel Franklin
Rosa Fregoso
Gregory French
David Fresquez
Annemarie Fuentes
Corey Fuller
Carole Galera
Elizabeth Galvez
Olivia Garcia
Carlos Garcia
Elsa Garcia
Diana Garcia
Viviana Garnica
Leticia Gasca-Guerrero
Janine Gasper Butters
Ashley Gereau
Sarah Geronimo
Ericka Gibson
Cynthia Giden
Diane Gomez
Sue Gomez
Darlene Gonzalez
Adma Gonzalez Adams
Sarah Gregory
Karen Gruhn
Felipe Guillen
Larisa Gunther
Patrisia Gurrola
Crystal Gutierrez
Tisha Guzman
Yu-Ling Han
Heather Hanson
Lisa Hanson
Rachel Hargrove
Robert Hernandez
Tobie Hernandez
Marly Herrera
Andrew Hibbert
Alicia Hickman
Danielle Hilder
Asher Himbing
Daniel Hodge
Jason Holden
Stacy Hook
Jared Horricks
Jinwei Hu
Diana Hustead
Ashley Jenkins
Kate Jenson
Michael Jeter
Daniel Jin
Tory Johnson
Stephanie Johnson
Donald Jones
Marva Jones
Alma Juarez
Danielle Juarez
Jennifer Justice
Joseph Keen
Erin Keepers
Tamara Kerns
Grace Kim
Hannah Kim
Sonia Klonoski
Amanda Koleszar
Peter Kriger
Heather Kuntz
Wayne Kwok
Theresa LaBarte
Alicia Lee
Traci Lenderman
Melanie Lerew
Erica Levy
Kathleen Lewis
Roger Li
Michelle Lightfoot
Ted Ling
Mayra Loera
Angelica Lopez
Elizabeth Lopez
Kristen Lord
Jill Luce
Frank Luna
Joshua Lund
Jesse Lynn
Denise Lystra
Christian Macias
Elizabeth Manullang
Erika Martinez
Johana Martinez Flores
Ardavan Mashhadian
Sabrina Mathews
Kadee McDonald
Stefanie McElfish
Roland Medes
Joanna Medina
Carlos Mejia
Mario Mejia
Dino Mendinueto
Carlos Mendoza
Monique Mills
Carolean Minor
Caroline Minthorne
Amber Misra
Ceciak Molina
Dianna Montgomery
Kimberly Moore
Patricia Morales
Jeremy Moretz
Travis Morrell
Kimberly Mulcahy
Erin Nathaniel
Emily Ndlela
Matthew Newbern
Chau Nguyen
Christopher Nguyen
Randy Nickel
Shirley Niell
Tacara Norwood
Erin Nuckolls
Justin Paul Ocampo
Patricia Ochoa
Reira Ohara
Fausat Oladipo
Maria Olivo
Dana Olson
Robert Opp
Candyce Osborne
Patricia Palacios
Pritam Pandit
Ioana Pasca
Nina Pascua
Garyn Pearson
Jason Pellegrin
Adrienne Perales
Timothy Perez
Christina Perrenoud
Sherri Peters
Huyenvivian Phan
Lan Phan
Jessica Phillips
Mandy Pickens
Maribel Pinedo
Katherine Plaxco
Rudolf Pojoh
Michelle Porosky
Nanci Pries
Matthew Pringle
Marty Pruitt
Stella Puteri
Antoni Quebec
Lisa Quesada
Robert Quigley
Edmundo Quinones
Jerome Rafoth
Wendy Ramirez
Darren Ramsey
Malinda Random
Salvador Rangel
Laura Raty
Bryan Regensburg
Veronica Reyes
Terrence Richardson
Elvira Rios
Bonnie Rivera
Crystal Robinson
Trent Robison
Eunice Robles
Jennifer Rodrick
Michelle Rogers
Ingrid Roth
Katrina Ruggles
Skesuk Saito
Marilyn Sampson
Amanda Sanchez
Steven Sanchez
Erika Santana
Melody Santiago
Paula Santos
Cynthia Savage
Victoria Serrano
Diana Shaw
Donna Sherman
Mary Shodja
Joaquin Silos
Marisol Silva
Martua Simorangkir
Cheryl Smith
Brea Smith
Annie Snyder
Janet Sobalvarro
Daniel Srikureja
Samson Sta Catalina
Samantha Stephenson
Paula Sutter
Megann Synnott
Arlette Tabo
Mona Tafti
Ivory Love Tagaro
Manjulika Talukder
Rebecca Tampubolon
Linnetta Tasker
Jacqueline Taylor
Jennifer Tedeschi
Brandi Temple
Don Thach
Anton Jaymil Ticzon
Pratiwi Tjong
Loan To
Julian Toma
Rocio Trinidad
Patricia Turrisi
Deborah Tustin
Jennifer Twohig
Gaurav Tyagi
Laura Uribe
Lisa Valencia
Maria Valencia
Joshua Vandersteen
Martha Varelas
Melissa Vargas
Hilda Vega
Katherine Velasco
Jeanette Vergonio
Rachel Villegas
Amanda Volpendesta
Joanne Wade
Erika Wagner
Brittany Waring
Destry Washburn
Brittanee Westenberger
Kayshe White
Simone Williams
Johanne Wilson
Karen Wilson
Kathia Wiseman
Marcia Woods
Christine Yap
Melissa Yarbrough
Mazen Yehya
Erika Yepez
Jose Zavala

10 years

Elham Abadir
Michael Acquistapace
Viridiana Adame
Amie Adams
Vincent Advincula
Melissa Aldaz
Lory Alido
Mia Alido
Amber Anaya
Cecelia Arrieta
Fraxie Atos
Nichole Avol
Neurity Bajet
Lou May Balboa
Mark Barboza
Litovin Basarte
Theresa Bashan
Amador Battad
Bernadette Bautista
Cherry Joanne Baxa
Shelley Baznette
Hoeun Ben
Madelyne Benzor
Waylon Biggs
Sanja Billue
Jennifer Blaire
Jonathan Boese
Sunil Boidya
Leticia Bolanos
Theresa Borges
Mermelene Borillo
Hafid Bouchama
Lars Breuning
Maurice Brooks
Judy Brown
Maisha Brown
Vanessa Cabrera
Charity Joy Cabreros
Katya Campos
Gia Carbajal-Garcia
Margarete Carneiro
Linda Carroll
Kristina Chase
Tammy Chavez
Regelyn Checo
Emily Chung
Janet Chung
Londa Colegado
Wendy Collins
Manuel Cota Godinez
Deanna Cummings
Christine Davis
Anthony Dayton
Lisa De Asis
Karen DeFazio
Bernard Dela Cruz
James Dela Cruz
Mandefro Demissie
Danielle DeStefano
Jamie DeView
Maryline Dewri
Antonio Diego
Sandra Dobbs
Stephanie Dodson
Gabriela Duenas
Megan Duke
Uyenphuong Duong
Noel Duval-McPhillips
Emmanuel Engracia
Daysi Escobar
Lourdes Everard
Deborah Farmer
Martha Farooq
Jessica Field
Fernando Fierro
Kelly Flood
Amber Ford
Nicholas Frantz
Andrea Frost
Darryl Gafford
Aimee Gallegos
Lilian Garcia-De La Vega
Lana Garside
Susan Glass
Manuel Gonzales
Claudia Gonzalez
Patricia Gonzalez
Jennifer Grant
Sarah Gray
Toyia Greene
Shelly Greve
Vivienne Gucilatar
Carina Guico
Esther Gutierrez
Eileen Guzman
Palash Halder
Noreen Hall
Theresa Hall
Karen Haller
Maura Ham
Lori Hamilton
Chin Yi Han
Alicia Hanakahi
Luchia Hansen
Melanie Hanson
Rina Haq
Michelle Harris
Carla Harvey
Cynthia Haskins
Michael Hebia
Karl Heghesan
Maria Hernandez
Yvonne Hernandez
Deborah Hicks
Amber Hill
Tiffany Hoekstra
Gary Holodnick
Penie Homan
Sonia Huerta
Abigail Liberty Ignacio
Ovrill Jervis
Radcliffe Johnson
Connie Jung
Patricia Kast
Ellen Keller
Savink Kham
Stephanie Kiminki
Jason Kwok
Paul Lahren
Meike Laoh
Nick Leontas
Dennis Lettig
Matthew Lewellin
Desmond Lim
Lauren Lim
Esther Lipari
Dolly Litvinoff
Evelyn Lloren
Jennifer Longo
Charlotte Loop
Camerina Lopez
Mario Lopez Dominguez
J Darrell Lorenzo
Ralph Louissaint
Martha Luva
Milcah Macawili
Kathleen Maiberger
Jonathan Maling
Donna Manio
Vasile Marinel
Lucia Martinez
Veronica Mata
Steven McCraw
Stephanie Mcfarland
Maureen McNeill
Cheryl Mead
Stefanie Mecham
Fay Millwee
Paula Miranda
Cherry Vi Montalban
Enoch Montalban
David Montes
Maryse Montes Luceus
Debbie Morgan
Denisha Morris
Roland Movido
Gloria Mrad
Tiffany Nagy
Anshu Nand
Erlinda Navarro
Mary Neri
Juan Nuesca
Rory O'Connor
Yuri Oda
Joseph Ojeda
Nove Oliver
Bruce Olson
Aurora Olvera
Carmenie Orellano
Amy Oster
James Owen
Sandra Padilla
Teri Painter
Frank Palomino
Mary Geralyn Payabyab
Jillian Payne
Hugo Pena
Denise Petersen
Daisieree Pineda
Genesis Punzalan
Jelome Quiza
Geraldine Ramirez
Maria Rangel
June Ray
Cristina Reed
Minette Rementilla
Sherry Resendez
Margarita Reyes
George Rios
Melissa Rios
Amy Roberts
Felna Rodrigo
Kristopher Rossab
Teodosia Rotar
Heroina Sanchez
Sheila Santiago
Elisa Sarabosing
Eric Schilt
Sarah Serrano
John Shikiya
Jennifer Shum
Jason Silfies
Carrie Silva
Adrienne Sims
Talaan Singhapayuckdate
Robin Smith
Linda Soubirous
Elen Susi Souza
Corbin Stefan
Shawn Sterbenz
Linda Stevanovich
Marlene Sultan
Marjorie Sunga
Deborah Syfers
Grace Tabingo
Craig Taksas
Pue Talamaivao
Sheba Talamantez
Heather Tangunan
Karen Thies
Taylor Thomas
Juan Tolentino
Vasilica Toma
Geoffrey Tomeck
Dawn Torrez
Jonathan Valdez
Katherine Valdovinos
Nellie Valero
Paula Vargas
Jana Varnum
Isabella Vega
Micky Villagran
Nidagloria Villanueva
Lisa Vogel
Terrie Walker
Ning Wang
Ameshia Williams
Maria Williford
Regina Wilson
Heather Wingo
Myladale Yulip
Kathleen Zavodnik

15 years

Ana Adame
Miriam Aguilar
Gary Alonzo
Francisco Amaya
Janet Arias
Janet Arias
Marilyn Banez
Ray Barreta
Yvette Barringer
Peter Bauchert
Gordon Beardsley
Catherine Berg
Alison Blythe-Merrill
Debbie Bralley
Margaret Brock
Jennifer Brumett
Kristie Burgess
Barry Burkholder
Catherine Byington
Alisa Campbell
Sarah Capalla
Priscilla Cardoza
Carmen Carreon-Mariscal
Tina Casey
Donald Clapp
Giovanna Clayvon
Yvonne Cocks-Newton
Nancy Cooper
Lilia Cornejo
David Cortes-Jimenez
Lesley Dalgity
Kristina Danzey
Michelle De La Rosa
Diana Do
Rosendo Domingo
William Domingo
Carrie Douglas
Kathleen Dupper
Denise Duran
Toni Espiritu
David Estanque
Ana Estrada
Mohammed Fakir
Sylvia Felder
Stephen Fenning
Roberto Fermin
Gil Fernandez
Mina Francisco
Randol French
Martin Fromson
Delilah Fuller
Arthur Gaitan III
Sandra Gamboa
Nelly Garcia
Laura Garcia
Christina Gardner
Karen Graves
John Gross
Kimberly Hanson
Roxanne Hernandez
Yolanda Hernandez
Cindy Hoang
Rhonda Hornsby
Karen Housley
Bobbi Howard
Katherine Ilacas
Zacariah Ishak
Brian Jacques
Dominador Jalique Jr
Carrie Jensen
Brenda Johansen-Falgren
Julie Kao
Dixie Knutson
Donald Laferriere
Sarah Lemus
Victor Leon
Rebecca Levario
Jesus Licea
Georgianna Liljedahl
Georgette Lisud
Annedrea Logan
Steven Lopez
Cydney Love
Alicia Lozano
Evelyn Lucrida
Mirna Ludi
Debra Ly
Haydee Mamdani
Deviyanti Mangunsong
Claro Masangcay
Regina Masli
Audrey Maxton
Ramee McRae
Jaime Meier
Lilibeth Muyano
Sonia Neidigh
Jennifer Newcombe
Dung Ngo
Tin Nguyen
Debra Nosanov
Modesta Nunez
Carmelita Ocampo
Maria Ochotorena
Amber Olson
Jennifer Orr
Harry Pantow
Scott Parker
Jane Pasuhuk
Denise Paul
Jennifer Pedersen
Rosemary Peng
Brandi Percival
Luz Perez
Luenda Perkins
Elena Piromgraipakd
Bianca Prandini
Bonnie Quishenberry
Julie Rachunok
Kristi Racine
Marjorie Reyno
Monique Roberts
Cynthia Rogers
Michelle Rowland
Joseph Ruga
Alane Sanchez
Teresita Santiago
Stacey Saunders
Dalisay Serrano
Mark Shaffer
Carrie Shawler
Clarissa Siapco
Annie Soler
Daniel Sorace
Xiomara Sorto
Jeane Spaid
Kristal Stevens
Patricia Stone
Darrell Stucky
Diane Tacchia
Margaret Tavares
Laura Taylor
Yvonne Tinker
Colleen Todorovitch
Garcia Troy
Ephraim Tungpalan
Lisa Turner
Ursula Ueno
Sharon Valdez
Vincent Valdivia
Tamara Vasquez
Shelley Veres
Gloria Villalobos
Paul Villanueva
Lee Wachenheimer
Wendy Walter
Vilma Wambaugh
Carrie Wheeler
Diana White
Nancy Yon
Karen Zamora
Deborah Zendejas
Gina Zwolinski

20 years

Dan Almario
Grace Baker
James Ball
Marynie Bell
Katherine Benavides
Mayra Benitez
Margie Boyer
Sadie Braun
Jeffrey Caliva
Leah Carlson
Arnoldo Cavenaghi
Wendy Coser
Kimberly Coy
Denise Cummings
Luhidis de Palm
Diana Deandrea
Theresa Doran
Cameron Dortch
Carolyn Duncan
Devon Elston-Hurdle
Philip Elston-Hurdle
Patricia Escarza
Heather Flores
Dorothy Forde
Janet French
Edward Gaitan
Deborah Gill
Bryan Gonzales
Linville Green
Donna Gross
Kimberly Hayes
Jamie Hernandez
Cindy Hopps
Florian Iancu
Dona Irlam
Pamela Knox
Jayanthi Koh
Chester Lambert
Maria Letts
Lenner Love
Karen Lu
Traci Luu
Allyson Luva
Dennies Mag-Akat
Laura Martinez
Robert Martinez
Robin Massey
Michele McCann
Cynthia Moe
Kathleen Monahan
Jihyun Moon
Elliott Mosher
Dimitrios Moulis
Michael Muniz
Christine Myers
Sibusiso Ndlela
Cynthia Ouellette
Diane Papa
Linda Parker
Phyllis Parton
Ma Politano
Tremenca Powell
Kathryn Ramer
Kathyrine Redford
Michael Regester
Zonnia Richardson
Maylene Rivera
Dusti Roberts
Susan Rojas
Ouayporn Sakoolpailoh
Juan Salazar
Ruth Sarli
Karen Shows
Sandra Sida
Ric Sirk-Bun
Eli Smith
Thomas Sweeney
Tammy Taylor
Patricia Templeton
Richard Thall
Laurie Thompson
Donald Tustison
Louis Ugalde
Carrie Van Hemert
Tamara Vasquez
Elizabeth Vockeroth
Judith Vukovich
Laura Zavala-Aranda
Moonyeen Zimmerman

25 years

Erlinda Abitia
Susan Arendt
Melissa Backstrom
Linda Baldaray
Lisa Bassett
Lisa Berry
Carol Bower
Laura Braga
Kathleen Brick
Elizabeth Brock
Catherine Brun
Lareatha Carpenter
Rose Chokka
Madeleine Chu
Tina Cordoba
Christine Cullen
Barbara Dawson
Kathie Elloway
Margie Fernandez
Cecilia Ferri
Anavella Garcia-Bitanga
Michelle Gracia
Roxaner Hequibal
Judith Holbeck
Dawn Huggins
Daniel Kardasinski
William Keough
Cindy Kolozsvari
Deanna Ledesma
Sherry Lee
Hannah Li
Lawrence Lottier
Rohannah Lumban-Gaol
Izabella Maier
Rosbenny Manullang
Susan Markovich
Mara Mccarville
Nancy Meert
Bertilina Menciano
Charles Mitchell
James Nyeholt
Marnie Patrona
Cynthia Potts
Avelina Quijano
Sandra Rangel
Judy Reynolds
Rosa Ruiz
Zennie Salapare
Samuel Salomon
C. Santiago
Wannee Schompoopong
Yueh-Guey Shih
Sherry Sisson
Roxanne Soisson
Sondra Steppe
Marta Steritz
Maria Stevenson
Rosemary Suarez
Edward Teh
Nida Tina
Michael Tiras
Carter Tong
Julie Tricola
Kenneth Tyler
Yolanda Veluz
Debbie Vigneault
Kim Wan
Philip White
Linda Whitener
Lily Young
Emilia Yulip
Didi Zebedeus

30 years

Katherine Acosta
Diana Albertson
Evangeline Berto
Anna Calaguas
Patti Catalano
Gordon Chan
Karen Cotterill
Rhonda Englehart
Barbara Fankhanel
Lilian Hasibuan
Deborah Hayes
Sierlie Hernando
Febra Johnson
Karen Jones
Alice Kisinger
Mark Lanham
Karen Lawson
Sarah Lawson
Karen Leech
Margarita Martinez
Wayne Mattheson
Renee Mershon
Valeriu Negoescu
Diana Neuendorff
Priscilla Nez
Agatha Oliverio
Alice Ong
Amelia Pennell
June Robinson
Gloria Roque
Esther Shadrach
David Sheppard
Victor Siagian
Erlina Sinulingga
Robin Steele
Olivia Swager
Susan Taitague
Phil-Ann Tan-Sinn
Antoinette Titgen
Carol Voss
Kevin Wangsnes
Jill Weissman
Gayle Wendt
Cynthia Zecher
Mary Zuniga

35 years

Kathleen Backy
Geoffrey Baugh
Donald Benedicto
James Brandt
Anna Cameron
Barbara Dickinson
Donald Farley
Judy Fischer
Georgianna Fredericks
Don Gamundoy
Jean Garvin
Annette Gross
Maria Guillen
Michael Hagelgantz
Ida Harrison
Karen Henry
Barbara Hundley
Jean Hutabarat
Donna Karlin
Robert Knutson
David Kreuter
Pamela Letterly
Carol Maas
Femmy Macarewa
Kenneth May
Edna Medes
George Melikian
Nancy Moses
Barry Nieman
Linda Okura
Lillian Phang
Vicky Ramirez
Josias Robinson
Curtis Serikaku
Stephen Shelton
James Smith
Hesri Soeprono
Leimomi Song
Barbara Soukup
Sandra Teichman
Joel Vendiola
James White
Linda Whiting
Mary Wilcox
Michael Woolever
Jeanne Zasadzinski

40 years

Carolyn Arroyo
Darla Boadway
Wilmer Brading
Michael Coronado
Steven Forland
James Greiner
Shirley Henley
Mary Leichty
Herbert McClure
Katherine Molina
Marcy O'Neill
Margaret Owen
Kenneth Peterson
Vikki Tooker

45 years

Linda Bowman
Anthony Guevara
Gloria Murguia
Claire Reid
Joyce Rusch


LLU Shared Services

5 years

Shaunielle Abreu
Myra Arroyo
Antonio Burruel
Diego Cisneros
Cosmin Cosma
Patricia Eiseman
Mark Ensley
Shauna Gifford
Ernesto Gonzalez
Tara Hartman
Sarah Hayhoe
Patricia Ibarra
Tracy Lozano
Candice Marden
David Marting
Allison Ong
Kenneth Ratke
Tiffany Robinson
Mihray Sharip
Arlyn Silva Arellano
Chris Soares
Jessica Trujillo
Rebecca Wilson

10 years

Sheila Aultman
Vicki Brown
Dorothy Cain
Jacqueline Carreon
Renato Catibog
Pauline Deeb
Oscar Delgadillo
Teresa Flores
Karen Harris
Gary Mansfield
Katrina Molony
Patricia Murdoch
Bruce Nutt
Amanda Perry
Donna Phillips
Sergio Ramirez
Heather Reifsnyder
Benjamin Rodriguez
Aleta Savage
Amy Simental
Tiffany Stalling
Dwayne Symonett

15 years

Darlene Baumgartner
Ivan Buchheim
Jeremy Grove
Lionel Huggins
Nathan Koester
Elias Mendoza
Virginia Wilson

20 years

Sherie Donahue
Bradley Johnson
Brett McPherson
Stephanie Mittelbuscher

25 years

Romain Bannis
John Gray
Mara Mulinari
Jose Ramirez
Sherry Schofield
Donald Wright

30 years

Sharon Blinci
Donny Clemons
Gloria Elder
Gregory Garrity
Pamela Riddle
Brian Summerville

35 years

Benjamin Cooper
Efren Gomez
Charlotte Lawson
Rolinda Luevano
Deanna Walters

40 years

Jose Perez


Officers of Loma Linda University Health

20 years

Daniel Fontoura
Roger Hadley

25 years

Ronald Carter
Gerald Winslow

30 years

Rick Williams

]]>
Thu, 11 Jun 2015 15:31:33 -0700
4264:21958 <![CDATA[Helping kids 'Live It' from the very beginning]]> ]]> These triplets were born early in life, but thanks to Loma Linda University Children's Hospital, today they are healthy, happy, fun-loving kids.

]]>
Thu, 11 Jun 2015 09:57:38 -0700
4264:21974 <![CDATA[Join in celebration for this weekend's graduates]]> Courtney Beckwith Haas This upcoming weekend is sure to be filled with smiles and happy hearts as the Loma Linda University Schools of Allied Health Professions, Public Health, Behavioral Health, Religion, and Nursing all hold their commencement ceremonies Sunday, June 14, in the Drayson Center’s Opsahl Gymnasium.

In addition to the commencements, all graduates, family members and friends are invited to the Focus on Graduates program being held in the Loma Linda University Church on Friday, June 12, at 7:30 p.m.

The service will showcase graduates' service experiences while at Loma Linda University. In addition to this, President Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, will be moderating a panel interview along with a candlelight ceremony led by Provost Ronald Carter, PhD and the school deans. The graduates will also have an opportunity to show appreciation to their families and friends for all their support.

Saturday morning, June 13, services will celebrate the graduates during two baccalaureates that will take place at the Loma Linda University Church. The service for the Schools of Public Health and Allied Health Professions will begin promptly at 9:00 a.m.; and the service for the Schools of Behavioral Health, Nursing, and Religion will start at 11:45 a.m.

Here is the commencement schedule:

8:00 a.m. – School of Allied Health Professions – allied programs

Speaker: James Rafferty, senior pastor of the Cascade Seventh-day Adventist Church in Bend, Oregon, and vice president of Light Bearers Ministry

10:30 a.m. – School of Allied Health Professions – physical therapy

Speaker: James Rafferty, senior pastor of the Cascade Seventh-day Adventist Church in Bend, Oregon, and vice president of Light Bearers Ministry

1:00 p.m. – School of Public Health

Speaker: Donald G. King, DrPH, MA, president of the Atlantic Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists

3:30 p.m. – School of Behavioral Health and School of Religion

Speaker: Paul Wangai Jr, MBChB, PhD, expert in international health, HIV/AIDS, maternal-child health, environmental health and nutrition

6:00 p.m. – School of Nursing

Speaker: Katia Reinert, PhD, MS, family nurse practitioner and public health clinical nurse specialist

For up-to-date information and to access the GradCast, please visit: llu.edu/commencement.

]]>
Thu, 11 Jun 2015 11:34:50 -0700
4264:21976 <![CDATA[Tilt-up walls create nearly 'instant' building shell at Loma Linda University Health - San Bernardino]]> Jiggs Gallagher Construction moved quickly last week at Loma Linda University Health – San Bernardino, next to the I-215 Freeway in downtown San Bernardino.

Workers tilted up large three-story sections of concrete with a giant crane, beginning at about 7:45 a.m. on June 5. Each unit consisted of poured concrete, with holes strategically placed for future windows and doors. 

The units weigh approximately 175,000 pounds apiece, or about 84 tons each. A crew of five to seven men guided the placement of the slabs from the ground, and secured long metal supports in place to hold the wall up until permanent attachments are made.

What’s amazing is that tilting up each section of wall — from moving the crane into place, to final separation of the crane lines — can take as little as 15 minutes. And then it’s on to the next one. 

Construction officials estimate completion and opening of the new facility in May 2016, less than 11 months from now. View construction progress via a live webcam at lomalindauniversityhealth.org/sanbernardino/live-video.page. The image updates every several seconds.

Loma Linda University Health – San Bernardino involves three distinct, yet related components.

The first is an educational center to be known as San Manuel Gateway College. Funded in part by a generous gift of $10 million from the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, it will provide a variety of six-to-12-month certificate training programs to prepare high school graduates for a number of rewarding career options in the health care field. 

The second element of the new facility will be an expanded multi-specialty medical clinic to be operated by Social Action Community Health System, currently located at 1455 E. Third Street in San Bernardino.

The third is a vegetarian restaurant designed to showcase the longevity-enhancing benefits of a plant-based diet.

]]>
Thu, 11 Jun 2015 13:12:13 -0700
4264:21969 <![CDATA[Next week's road closures]]> Interstate ramp closures are part of next week’s construction schedule for the interchange improvement project at I-10 and Anderson/Tippecanoe. See full details below. 

]]>
Thu, 11 Jun 2015 10:15:50 -0700
4264:21907 <![CDATA[Negotiations to begin with San Gorgonio Memorial Hospital]]> Briana Pastorino Loma Linda University Health and Adventist Health have officially entered into exclusive negotiations with San Gorgonio Memorial Hospital (SGMH). The SGMH board voted unanimously to begin negotiations during its meeting May 28. 

“Loma Linda University Health has been serving the Pass communities for many years,” says Kerry Heinrich, CEO, Loma Linda University Medical Center. “We are thrilled at this new opportunity to expand our services to this community.”

Under the proposed affiliation, Loma Linda University Health and Adventist Health will provide resources to SGMH to enhance medical and hospital services to the San Gorgonio Pass communities.

“After a lengthy and thorough evaluation of our options, the board made this decision to unify efforts,” says Jerilynn Kaibel, DC, board chair, SGMH. “Combining our current strengths with the longstanding history of Loma Linda University Health and Adventist Health was the best option for the community we serve.”

This proposed affiliation will improve the quality of care and patient safety in the San Gorgonio Pass communities by expanding the range of services provided while retaining and recruiting talented personnel and staff. Additionally, this relationship will provide resources to complete the last phase of construction for the patient care building at SGMH, which will increase licensed bed count from 77 to 91.

Over the coming months, representatives from SGMH, Loma Linda University Health and Adventist Health will be working to finalize an affiliation agreement.

The hospital district will remain public, with a local public board managing district operations.

“San Gorgonio Memorial Hospital’s mission has always been ‘to provide safe, high quality, personalized health care services,’” Kaibel states, “and this new affiliation will allow us to keep that focus, continuing our dedication to care for our community.”

“We want to promote wholeness and health for people in the Pass communities,” says Loma Linda University Health President Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH, “and we intend to integrate our commitment ‘to make man whole’ with San Gorgonio’s mission and dedication to the community.”

“Adventist Health is very pleased to have the opportunity to bring our successful experience in community hospitals to this partnership with Loma Linda University Health and San Gorgonio Memorial Hospital,” says Bob Beehler, vice president for market development/mergers and acquisitions, Adventist Health. “Together we will work tirelessly to provide high quality health care to the San Gorgonio Pass communities.”

Adventist Health is a faith-based, nonprofit integrated health delivery system serving communities in California, Hawaii, Oregon and Washington. 

]]>
Thu, 04 Jun 2015 13:37:33 -0700
4264:21909 <![CDATA[LLU Medical Center bariatric surgery program recognized for high quality]]> Briana Pastorino Blue Shield of California has recognized Loma Linda University Medical Center with a Blue Distinction® Center designation in the area of bariatric surgery as part of the Blue Distinction® Centers for Specialty Care program. Blue Distinction Centers are nationally designated health care facilities shown to deliver quality specialty care, based on objective measures that were developed with input from the medical community for patient safety and better health outcomes.

“Loma Linda University Medical Center is dedicated to giving the highest quality of care in every specialty,” says Kerry Heinrich, CEO of LLU Medical Center. “This recognition is a true testament to the individuals who are providing care to our bariatric patients, and for that I congratulate them.”

To receive a Blue Distinction Center for Bariatric Surgery designation, a health care facility must demonstrate success in meeting patient safety as well as bariatric-specific quality measures, including complications and readmissions for gastric stapling and/or gastric banding procedures. A health care facility must also have earned national accreditations at both the facility level and the bariatric care-specific level.

Keith Scharf, DO, director of metabolic and bariatric surgery at Loma Linda University Medical Center, is proud to be part of the team recognized by Blue Shield of California for meeting the rigorous selection criteria for bariatric surgery set by the Blue Distinction Centers for Specialty Care program.

“This honor reinforces our efforts and we look forward to continue to perform at this high level,” Scharf says.

Research shows that facilities designated as Blue Distinction Centers demonstrate better quality and improved outcomes for patients compared with peers.

Most bariatric services are currently offered by Loma Linda University Health. The metabolic and bariatric surgery program offers effective tools and services to help patients achieve and ultimately maintain better health and improved quality of life. The respected team of medical professionals and fellowship-trained surgeons are dedicated and committed to the lifelong success of their patients.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 909-558-2822 or visit the hospital website

Bariatric surgeries are among the most common elective surgeries in the U.S., which provides a significant opportunity to improve quality within the health care system and help Americans become healthier.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 72 million Americans are obese and 24 million suffer from morbid obesity. The estimated annual health care costs of obesity-related illnesses are $190.2 billion, or nearly 21 percent of annual medical spending in the U.S., according to the Journal of Health Economics.

There were 179,000 bariatric surgeries performed in 2013, according to the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, and the average cost is more than $28,000 per episode, according to the Journal of the American Medical Association.

Since 2006, the Blue Distinction Centers for Specialty Care program has helped patients find quality providers for their specialty care needs in the areas of bariatric surgery, cardiac care, complex and rare cancers, knee and hip replacements, spine surgery and transplants while encouraging health care professionals to improve the care they deliver.

For more information about the program and for a complete listing of the designated facilities, please visit bcbs.com/bluedistinction.

]]>
Thu, 04 Jun 2015 13:38:58 -0700
4264:21899 <![CDATA[The heart of the issue: a patient testimonial]]> Advancement films ]]> The diagnosis of congestive heart failure scared Lynn Ludden. His wife encouraged him to go to Loma Linda University Health, where her father was treated.

“My experience at Loma Linda has been nothing short of phenomenal,” says Ludden.

See this inspiring patient testimonial.

]]>
Thu, 04 Jun 2015 08:10:10 -0700
4264:21900 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- Summer fun in the sun]]> Courtney Beckwith Haas Summer is here. Students are finishing classes and graduating, grown-ups are scheduling time off and families are planning their summer vacations. But don’t forget to think twice before stepping out into those bright summer rays and stretching out under the sun.

Loma Linda University Health health library directs you to several articles discussing the importance of sun safety and the dangers of too much exposure or tanning. To make sure you know how to protect yourself this year, check out the following links so that you can safely get out and enjoy yourself at the beach, in a boat or simply gardening in your front yard. 

]]>
Thu, 04 Jun 2015 10:31:48 -0700
4264:21904 <![CDATA[Tomorrow: Walls will rise for Loma Linda University Health - San Bernardino]]> A live webcam is now available to allow the community to watch construction progress for Loma Linda University Health – San Bernardino, the new health care and educational center in downtown San Bernardino. 

The concrete exterior walls of the 150,000-square-foot facility will be “tilted up” on Friday, June 5, showing substantial progress on the site.

“A lot of work has gone into site preparation and construction of the foundation over the last few months,” says Rodney Neal, MBA, senior vice president for finance at Loma Linda University. “During the tilt-up process, the walls will be raised in just a few days and the building will begin to take shape quickly.” 

The new facility, located at 250 South G Street, will expand health care access as well as educational and economic opportunities to the city of San Bernardino and the Inland Empire region. The facility represents a unique partnership of Loma Linda University Health, the city and county of San Bernardino, the San Bernardino Community College District, the San Bernardino City Unified School District, Social Action Community (SAC) Health System and San Manuel Band of Mission Indians.

A multi-specialty clinic operated by SAC Health System will partner with Loma Linda University Health to greatly expand its current services. Started by Loma Linda University Health students in the 1960s, SAC Health System has grown to become the largest provider of health services in San Bernardino. The new facility will offer expanded health care options for residents, featuring expert care by Loma Linda University Health faculty, students and residents. 

The facility will also be an educational center for wholeness health education and an innovative new program called San Manuel Gateway College. This outreach will offer a number of entry-level health career certificate programs such as nursing, medical and dental assisting, phlebotomy and medical insurance coding. These six- to 12-month programs will provide job skills, preparing students for employment in the health care field and future educational advancement. The San Manuel Gateway College was made possible through a generous landmark $10 million gift from the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians.

Construction is slated for completion in spring of 2016. Access to the live webcam to view construction progress and more information can be found at lomalindauniversityhealth.org/sanbernardino. The image updates every few seconds.

Groundbreaking ceremonies for the facility were held Dec. 10, 2014.

President Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, of Loma Linda University Health said during the ceremony, “Studies of the infrastructure of San Bernardino have found that there are two large unmet needs in this community.

“The first is a lack of skilled workers. The second is a lack of quality health care. Our new project will help address both of those sectors of the economy by providing career education and health care for area residents as well as creating employment opportunities.”

]]>
Thu, 04 Jun 2015 13:19:34 -0700
4264:21819 <![CDATA[Three schools lead off 2015 commencement season]]> Courtney Beckwith Haas, Jiggs Gallagher and Larry Kidder The newest physicians, scientists, pharmacists and dental professionals joined the ranks of Loma Linda University alumni on Sunday, May 24.

Loma Linda University School of Medicine graduated 195, with 194 marching. The School of Pharmacy recognized the accomplishments of 78 PharmD graduates, with 77 present for the ceremony. The School of Dentistry honored 206 graduates, with 204 marching.

Commencement ceremonies were held on the central campus lawn facing Coleman and Chan Shun pavilions. In addition to nearly 500 graduates, seven individuals were honored with Loma Linda University Health awards during the School of Medicine and School of Dentistry ceremonies.

The following awards were presented during the School of Medicine commencement:

  • Col. Dallas C. Hack, MD, MPH, MSS, is a graduate of the 1976 class of Loma Linda University School of Medicine.  He is currently brain health/fitness research program coordinator for the U.S. Army Medical Research and Materiel Command. Col. Hack was honored as University Alumnus of the Year.
  • Myrna Hanna, MS, a 1986 graduate of Loma Linda University School of Education (now La Sierra University), serves as assistant vice president for administrative affairs, and assistant vice president for alumni and donor relations, Loma Linda University Health. She was presented with the Loma Linda University Health Lifetime Service Award.
  • Robert E. Soderblom, MD, a graduate of Loma Linda University School of Medicine, class of 1963, is associate professor, department of medicine, Loma Linda University School of Medicine.  He was also honored as a University Alumnus of the Year.
  • Dennis and Carol Troesh, Inland Empire business executive and author (respectively) as well as donors of the lead gift to launch the Vision 2020 Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow in 2014, are long-term members of the Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital Foundation Board, as well the Loma Linda University Big Hearts for Little Hearts Loma Linda Guild. The couple was honored with the Loma Linda University Health Distinguished Humanitarian Award.
  • John H. Zhang, MD, PhD, is director of the Center for Brain Hemorrhage Research, and professor of anesthesiology, basic sciences, neurology and neurosurgery at the Loma Linda University School of Medicine. He was presented with the Loma Linda University Health Distinguished Investigator Awar

An additional award was presented during the School of Dentistry commencement ceremony:

  • Nancy Young, president and CEO of the Social Action Community (SAC) Health System, received the Loma Linda University Health Community Engagement Award. 

Other individuals honored by their schools during commencement ceremonies included a number of graduates.

Additional Loma Linda University Health honors and awards will be presented during commencement ceremonies held on Sunday, June 14, at Drayson Center

]]>
Thu, 28 May 2015 16:40:01 -0700
4264:21812 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It: Habits -- how to form good ones and break bad ones]]> Courtney Beckwith Haas Habits develop over time. It’s just a part of our day-to-day lives. But it is important to define our habits — the good, the bad and the ugly. Bad habits can take over our lives, becoming dominant problems that ultimately lead to damaging behavior.

Loma Linda University Health offers a health library. One article, titled With Help, You Can Break a Bad Habit, focuses on the steps to breaking bad habits. Of course, the most efficient way to break a bad habit is to avoid it in the first place.

Another article in the library, titled Developing Healthy Habits in Children, offers ways to help children develop good, healthy habits. Here are some key suggestions from the article.

  • Lead by example, making healthy food choices yourself and encouraging the entire family to exercise
  • Help children set realistic expectations that are achievable
  • Limit the amount of screen time each day, be it television, computer or hand-held devices
  • When good habits develop, reward children with positive, healthy rewards (as opposed to sweet treats)
  • Encourage children to find something they can become passionate about, such as a sport, swimming, running or another exercise-oriented activity
  • Protect family meal time and enjoy healthy, tasty and fun foods together

Define your habits. You probably already instinctively know which ones are leading to positive results in your life and which ones you should eliminate. Then make a change for a better life. 

URLs for books

Library

healthlibrary.lomalindahealth.org/

Article 1

healthlibrary.lomalindahealth.org/search/1,457

Article 2

healthlibrary.lomalindahealth.org/search/6,695078

]]>
Thu, 28 May 2015 16:14:01 -0700
4264:21814 <![CDATA[Big Air Kids Fair lifts spirits of Children's Hospital kids]]> Briana Pastorino More than 200 patients and their families, as well as others from the community, came out to watch the 12th annual Big Air Kids Fair on Thursday, May 21. The event spotlighted some of motorcycle racing’s biggest stars.

The riders took over the front steps of Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital and put on a high-flying show for patients. Some of the best-known riders from Freestyle Motocross were on hand, including demo riders Dustin Cantrell, Scotty Stephens, Jimmy Fitzpatrick, Paul Smith and Fred Kyrillos.

In addition to the free motorcycle show, guests were able to interact with a life-size Tonka truck, as well as experience Gazillion Bubbles’ five-foot Monsoon Machine -- all in front of Children’s Hospital.

Following the outdoor event, riders visited patient rooms and delivered gifts, signed autographs, and took photos with their young fans.

For a video link, visit https://youtu.be/TwWIobiYh4A

]]>
Thu, 28 May 2015 16:22:53 -0700
4264:21810 <![CDATA[Water safety highlighted during media event in Redlands]]> Briana Pastorino Seven inflatable bodies, representing seven actual victims, were placed in a pool at Splash Kingdom Waterpark in Redlands as part of a media event highlighting water safety.

The event, which took place Wednesday, May 27, was hosted by Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital, the Inland Empire chapter of the Safe Kids coalition and the Inland Empire Drowning Prevention Network.

Splash Kingdom lifeguards retrieved the seven bodies and handed them off to personnel from Redlands Fire Department. During the presentation, Clark Morrow from the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department spoke about water safety issues, including some unique to San Bernardino County, as well as the pitfalls of submersion and the ABCs of water safety.

Matt Payne, a Rialto Fire Department paramedic, demonstrated the appropriate techniques for giving CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) to adults, children and infants. Children’s Hospital pediatric intensive care physicians Shamel Abd-Allah, MD, and Jesse Wyatt, MD, discussed the medical aspects of water submersion.

For more information on water safety Safe Kids, download an informative PDF at bit.ly/1SFckB6.

]]>
Thu, 28 May 2015 16:06:39 -0700
4264:21805 <![CDATA[Drayson Center offers summertime fun for kids, both young and old]]> Courtney Beckwith Haas Summer is almost here. As school vacations approach, it’s time to start thinking about fun, exciting and healthy activities to keep kids moving and entertained. Drayson Center offers a jam-packed summer with variety of camp options.

Summer 2015 Children’s Camps/Programs:

Los Angeles Clippers Basketball Camp (July 6-10) and Elite Camp (July 20-24)

Los Angeles Galaxy Soccer Camp (June 22-26)

Lego Camps (June 15-19, June 29-July 2, July 20-24)

Aquatics Classes and Activities (see 2015 Aquatic Recreation Guide or visit the website)

Contact LLU Drayson Center and sign up while there’s still space available. Be sure to check out the new website for continued updates at llu.edu/drayson-center.

]]>
Thu, 28 May 2015 15:42:03 -0700
4264:21764 <![CDATA[Television and newspapers feature Loma Linda orthopedic team sent to Nepal]]> Heather Reifsnyder, Courtney Haas and Briana Pastorino To help victims of the recent severe earthquakes in Nepal, Loma Linda University Health sent an orthopedic surgical team to Scheer Memorial Hospital in Banepa, Nepal, on May 6. Scheer Memorial Hospital is part of the Adventist Health International network, which is based in Loma Linda.

The team has returned home, and members of the news media came to the Loma Linda University Health campus May 19 to interview Scott Nelson, orthopedic surgeon, and Andrew Hagland, MS, who provided logistical support.

Here are some of the resulting stories:

ABC7 Eyewitness News: “Local medical relief team returns, describes Nepal earthquake.”
http://abc7.com/news/local-medical-relief-team-returns-describes-nepal-earthquake/733454 

The Press Enterprise: “Nepal quake: Loma Linda team helps survivors.”
http://www.pe.com/articles/nelson-767734-haglund-hospital.html

The Sun: “LLUMC surgical team returns from Nepal.” http://www.sbsun.com/health/20150519/llumc-surgical-team-returns-from-nepal

Becker’s Spine Review: “Dr. Scott Nelson’s spine surgery in Nepal interrupted by aftershock — 5 things to know.”
http://www.beckersspine.com/spine/item/25564-dr-scott-nelson-s-spine-surgery-in-nepal-interrupted-by-aftershock-5-things-to-know.html 

Adventist Health International and Loma Linda University Health’s Global Health Institute continue to monitor the needs in Nepal and at Scheer Memorial Hospital.

Though far away, this hospital and the community it serves are in need of your support. Every small donation can make a huge impact in the lives of those in Nepal. To learn more about this hospital and how to help in the relief of this crisis, please visit ahiglobal.org and donate today.

]]>
Thu, 21 May 2015 12:37:14 -0700
4264:21772 <![CDATA[Lithuanian delegation visits to learn about whole person care]]> Jiggs Gallagher Three physicians from the Baltic nation of Lithuania and their Lithuanian-American colleague visited Loma Linda University Health on May 20 - 21. The group included the dean of Lithuania’s School of Public Health at Kaunas University Medical School, Ramune Kalediene, MD, PhD.

The trio of health care educators was on a fact-finding and discovery mission. They hoped to understand Loma Linda University Health’s motto "to make man whole" in order to integrate wholeness into health care and health education in their native land. 

In addition to Kalediene, the group included Darius Kubilus, MD, PhD, and Aurelius Veryga, MD, PhD. They traveled to Loma Linda with their tour coordinator, Petras Vainius, a Lithuanian-American based in Philadelphia.

The group met with Sally Dyer, coordinator for cardiac lifestyle management; Rob Webb, supervisor of the Radiation Medicine Proton Rx Center, and Hans Diehl, DrHSc, volunteer clinical professor for preventive medicine, LLU School of Medicine, as well as School of Public Health alumnus. During their first day, they also toured oncology, medical and surgical clinics in the Schuman Pavilion.

Kalediene said they hope to bring the principles of how “to make man whole” to their fellow citizens.

“We hope to initiate faculty exchanges and bring both master’s and eventually doctoral degree programs in lifestyle medicine to Lithuania,” she said. “This is a tremendous opportunity for our people to gain from the lessons we can learn from Loma Linda University Health. 

“We hope to secure funding to develop this program over the next three years,” Kalediene said. “We very much need to address the epidemic of chronic diseases suffered by Lithuanians.”

She added that issues many Lithuanians face include smoking, unhealthy diet, insufficient exercise, sleep problems and poor handling of stress. They want to focus on public policy changes and on education, motivation and inspiration. The project is firmly supported by Vytenis Andriukaitis, commissioner of health for the European Union. He hopes Lithuania’s Loma Linda-inspired model will spread to other nations in the continent.

]]>
Thu, 21 May 2015 12:58:28 -0700
4264:21774 <![CDATA[Video: Live with balance]]> ]]> Miyuki, a physical therapist at Loma Linda University Health, “Lives It” through maintaining balance in her life. Learn from her wisdom as you head into the Memorial Day weekend. 

]]>
Thu, 21 May 2015 13:04:43 -0700
4264:21750 <![CDATA[Contest winner announced for compliance training]]> Heather Reifsnyder In April, the Loma Linda University Health compliance department announced a contest to encourage early completion of the required annual compliance training for all employees. The training period for 2015 began April 1 and closes Oct. 31.

Departments in which each employee completed the training by April 30 were eligible to win a treat.

The winning department is central schedistration.

Who?

This department, which is about a year and a half old, handles both scheduling and registration for radiology patients across all Loma Linda University Health entities except LLUMC–Murrieta. It currently has 16 full-time regular employees and three temporary employees. Thank you to these individuals for the customer care they provide as a single access point for radiology services. The department can be reached at 909-558-5533.

For individuals who have yet to complete compliance training this year, it is available online through the Organization-Wide Learning (OWL) portal.

To access the training courses, employees should log on to the online classroom (Moodle) at https://ceonline.llu.edu and look for the compliance course names ending with year “2015.” Depending on the employee’s job position code, there may be up to three required courses. 

Step-by-step instructions by entity are available on the compliance department VIP page.

The employee’s training status will be marked as complete after all required compliance courses are taken and the code of conduct, found at the end of the compliance module, is electronically signed. It can take up to 24 hours for completion status to be reflected in OWL.

For more information, contact the compliance department at 909-558-6458 or ext. 66458.

]]>
Thu, 21 May 2015 12:08:45 -0700
4264:21754 <![CDATA[Three schools to hold commencement this weekend]]> The Loma Linda University Schools of Medicine, Pharmacy and Dentistry will hold their commencement ceremonies this Sunday, May 24, on the university mall facing the Coleman and Chan Shun Pavilions.  

Here is the schedule:

8:30 a.m.    --    School of Medicine
Speaker: Bradley P. Gilbert, MD, MPP, chief executive officer of the Inland Empire Health Plan

1:30 p.m.    --    School of Pharmacy
Speaker: David I. Levy, MD, gifted neurosurgeon recognized nationally for his skill and a proponent of praying with patients

5:00 p.m.    --    School of Dentistry
Speaker: David I. Levy, MD, gifted neurosurgeon recognized nationally for his skill and a proponent of praying with patients 

For up-to-date information and to access the GradCast, please visit: llu.edu/commencement.

]]>
Thu, 21 May 2015 12:12:41 -0700
4264:21722 <![CDATA[PossAbilities member competes in Paracanoe World Cup in Germany]]> Briana Pastorino Loma Linda University Health PossAbilities member Greg Crouse will be headed to Duisburg, Germany, for the 2015 inaugural Paracanoe World Cup games May 20–24. Team USA announced that Crouse was one of four individuals who made it on the World Cup team.

“I was extremely elated and proud to make this World Cup team,” says Crouse, who was on the Paracanoe World Championship teams in 2010, 2012 and 2013. Crouse learned that he made the team immediately following the World Cup time trials in Oklahoma City on April 25.

Although Crouse, 46, has been on Team USA Paracanoe World Championship teams in the past, he has had to re-qualify every year.

“As I’ve gotten older I’ve had to rely on technique and experience rather than just strength,” Crouse says.

This year, in preparation for time trials, Crouse hired a new coach, Dave Kreuger, in February and will continue to train through the end of the year in preparation for the United States National Championship and the World Paracanoe Championship.

Crouse has been on the “Road to Rio” in an effort to make it to the 2016 Paralympics in Rio de Janeiro. Everything is working toward the 2016 time trials for the Paralympics next year, Crouse stated, and things are not getting any easier.

“It was a lot more flexible in the past,” he says, “but the closer we get to the Paralympics everything gets a little more challenging with time standards and criteria.”

In order to keep the momentum toward Rio de Janeiro, he must compete in the World Cup and the World Championships this year as well as next year. “So this is a huge steppingstone for me.”

"We are very proud of Greg for making the USA World Cup team,” says Pedro Payne, PhD, director, community outreach and patient experience at Loma Linda University Medical Center East Campus. “He is a great ambassador of our program and is an inspiration to us all."

PossAbilities is a free, nonprofit, community outreach program that provides individuals of all ages who have permanent physical disabilities with support and resources to stay active and healthy in life. Loma Linda University Health has run this program since 2001. 

A United States Army veteran, Crouse lost his left leg while serving overseas in 1988. He has been a part of PossAbilities since 2008, and he attributes much of his success to the organization.

“I’m honored to be a part of PossAbilities. Thank you for making my dreams a reality,” he says.

]]>
Wed, 20 May 2015 17:12:21 -0700
4264:21696 <![CDATA[Medical Auxiliary brings new recipes to your table]]> Courtney Beckwith Haas “Open Table,” a cookbook created by the Loma Linda University Medical Auxiliary, features a collection of more than 220 vegetarian recipes. These recipes have been compiled from nearly 125 cooks and bakers who chose to submit their best dishes to this project. The end result will leave your mouth watering.

“Every cook welcomes a new cookbook and this cookbook will be no exception,” according to the Medical Auxiliary website. “It will be a gift to ourselves and one we can proudly ‘gift’ to family and friends while benefiting others." 

The cookbook costs $44, with all proceeds going to benefit the various programs provided for Loma Linda University School of Medicine students.

To order your cookbook today and help support students, call 909-558-4639 or visit llumedaux.org.

]]>
Thu, 14 May 2015 16:18:56 -0700
4264:21692 <![CDATA[Open house reveals new Access Center]]> Larry Kidder The Customer Care Center — now called the Access Center — was established in 1998 to centralize access to care, services and information for patients, physicians and the community. 

Recently, the Access Center leadership team has been working with FTI consultants as part of an enterprise-wide effort to build a technologically enhanced infrastructure. This infrastructure will comprise a cutting-edge telephone system; a fully optimized customer relationship management system for scheduling, registration and authorization within the Loma Linda Electronic Access Portal (LLEAP); and advanced reporting and analytics.

This infrastructure will support the future vision of Loma Linda University Health and put it at the forefront of customer-centered, single-point access. 

On May 13, Access Center leadership invited the rest of Loma Linda University Health to see the progress. An open house was held from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and guests were given tours of the new facility, which is located on E. Club Center Drive in San Bernardino.

“Our goal is to make the patient experience as simple as possible,” explains Leilani Turner, operations manager for the Access Center. “We want to connect them to the health care providers and services that will best serve them — and do it as quickly as possible.”

Access Center leaders are taking a phased approach. “This is a huge task,” says Aramis Cherrington, director of the Access Center. “We are taking it in stages so that we can be thorough in providing the best service for our customers and our Loma Linda University Health providers.”

Some areas already served by the center include orthopedics, dermatology, surgery, ophthalmology, general medicine, urology, cardiology, internal medicine specialties, neurology and the Cancer Center, as well as general marketing, physician referral and physician-to-physician.

“We want a single point of contact to gain uniform access to a number of services and locations available at Loma Linda University Health,” Cherrington explains. “We are working on the infrastructure necessary to support all aspects of Loma Linda University Health, including hospital, other physician groups and Loma Linda University.”

Coming soon will be a centralized phone number for the Access Center.

]]>
Thu, 14 May 2015 15:00:59 -0700
4264:21690 <![CDATA[Notes from the President -- May 2015]]> Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   May 2015
China

This story really begins over 100 years ago, young by Chinese reckoning, but nearly at Loma Linda‘s beginning. A remarkable family moved from a village in the Zhejiang province of eastern China to the growing metropolis of Shanghai. The father began in the entertainment business, eventually followed by four of his sons, including one born in 1907 named Shao Renjeng. This son later came to be called Run Run Shaw, probably a transliteration of his name from the Ningbo dialect from the village where he was born. The family sold their business in Shanghai just before the Japanese invasion in 1937, eventually settling throughout Asia, with Run Run Shaw first moving to Singapore and finally to Hong Kong. Through astute anticipation of entertainment interests and trends, the brothers developed the largest movie production dynasty in Asia. Run Portrait of Sir Run Run Shaw Run Shaw was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 1977 due to his significant donations to education, health care and the arts, primarily throughout China. He has more than 5,000 buildings carrying his name in the country, often known locally by his nickname, Yifu.

Most of us wouldn’t know much about this man were it not for an event early in his life. Apparently his mother became sick and sought care from an American doctor in Shanghai who had recently moved to China on behalf of the Adventist Church. Harry Miller was a 1902 graduate of the American Medical Missionary College in Battle Creek, Michigan, the forerunner of Loma Linda University. He eventually spent most of his career in China, earning the title of “China Doctor” while establishing two hospitals in Shanghai, and another eight, along with many clinics, throughout the country. When Sir Run Run Shaw was later living in Hong Kong, he also sought health care from the Adventist hospital there based on his early acquaintance with Dr. Miller.

And so it was that in the 1980s, when Sir Run Run Shaw decided he would like to build a modern hospital in Hangzhou, the provincial capital of Zhejiang, he turned to the Adventist Church for assistance. And this is how Loma Linda University got drawn into this story, helping design, manage and staff Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, with our name proudly displayed on the building. We recognized its 20-year anniversary last year, when many who had worked at the hospital returned to celebrate friendships. Through those 20 years, over 500 staff from Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital were trained at Loma Linda, and as many from Loma Linda spent time in the offices, wards, clinics and operating theaters there. Because of the hospital’s success and growing reputation, many have come from across China to learn from this Western-oriented hospital with the unusually close relationship with a place called Loma Linda University.

And this is where the next chapter of this story begins. Because of the current reputation of Loma Linda in China due to this relationship, many other enterprising businessmen and hospitals have been coming to our door, wanting to recreate the success of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital. This has given us pause on two counts. Sir Run Run Shaw HospitalWhat have we done that can be replicated elsewhere? In other words, what is the “magic” that Loma Linda and Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital have created? And secondarily, with whom do we want to partner in the future? We recognize it is time to branch out from Hangzhou, but we must consider who is truly committed to creating this special kind of care versus who is looking for a good marketing edge by using our name.

In meaningful dialogue with our Chinese friends, we have concluded that any success in this relationship has been due to the sharing of our values, our culture. Probably it is the nurses, even more than the doctors, who have captured this culture of compassion and caring that makes Loma Linda, and now Sir Run Run Shaw, so unique. But can we create that elsewhere? China is now pushing 1.4 billion people, give or take 100 million, with thousands of hospitals, doctors, nurses and other health care professionals. They have massive cities with modern freeways, subways, skyscrapers and hospitals. This is backed by an economy that owns much of our U.S. debt and continues to grow at an impressive rate.

To seek answers to these questions, a small group of us traveled to China a few weeks ago, visiting Hong Kong, Beijing, Hangzhou and Chongqing. We toured hospitals, listened to presentations, ate great meals with chopsticks, and discussed the best way forward. While China is opening up to Western ideas and programs, it is still a tightly controlled country, with little room for external organizations to work on their own. All of Loma Linda’s Richard Hart speaks with individuals from Chinainvolvement to date has been in support of government hospitals and universities, including Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital. Though “religious freedom” is allowed, it is carefully structured and monitored. Is there a role for a private, faith-based university now in China? Has the time come to see if this can happen? How would it best be organized? Where? What courses should be offered?

We shared these questions and concerns with the leadership of the Shaw Foundation, the current leaders at Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, and with several large health systems across the country. Would it be possible for Loma Linda to provide effective consultation support, or even start a school of nursing, or dental hygiene, or other professional programs in China? Could we train health professionals from across the country, giving them clinical and administrative skills, as well as our values of caring and compassion? Our conclusion is that it is time to put forward a proposal that allows us to train students within a Loma Linda culture of caring. This would require both an educational building and probably a dormitory for students to stay in on a new campus. Even more importantly, we would want access to an appropriate hospital for clinical rotations. We feel this would best be done at Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital itself, which has thoroughly endorsed this idea.

So a concept paper has been developed and sent off. Pray for this initiative, which could be a huge step to further involvement in this country with one-fifth of the world’s population. It would be a new frontier for Loma Linda, befitting our distinguished history of innovation around the world. And it just may have a national impact in a country even as big as China.

Sincerely yours,
Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

 

PS: Our campus in San Bernardino is going up. Please log on to http://lomalindauniversityhealth.org/sanbernardino/live-video.page for a live video view of construction. The image updates at brief intervals.

Vision 2020: The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow

Office of the President, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350

Copyright © 2015 by Loma Linda University

llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 14 May 2015 14:53:28 -0700
4264:21673 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- Check your fat facts]]> Courtney Beckwith Haas What do you know about fats? The Loma Linda University Health health library features a quiz this week that will test your knowledge.

Cholesterol, saturated fats, trans fats, calories and fat substitutes — this quiz will test what you thought you knew and will help enlighten you on the importance of making healthy life choices when it comes to your daily fat intake. Along with carbohydrates and protein, fat is one of the three primary components of food.

When we think of fat, we automatically think “Oh, that’s bad for me!” But in reality, healthy fats are essential. Just remember that even these need to be consumed in moderation. To learn more, take the quiz now.

]]>
Thu, 14 May 2015 11:26:49 -0700
4264:21694 <![CDATA[Standing ovation follows Redlands Symphony performance ]]> Larry Kidder Close to 600 members of surrounding communities were on hand for a family-friendly concert at Loma Linda University Health to cap off May 10 Mother’s Day activities.

The concert at 5:00 p.m. provided light-hearted Broadway tunes performed by Broadway singer Norman Large and vocalist Debbie Prutsman, best known for her roles in Southern California musical theater. 

Some audience members brought along blankets, lawn chairs and picnic baskets. Local food vendors were located at the back of the venue.

Songs from Rodgers and Hammerstein musicals “Carousel,” “South Pacific,” “Oklahoma!” “The King and I” and “The Sound of Music” delighted the audience, which gave the performers a standing ovation following a rendition of “Climb Ev’ry Mountain.”

The concert on the lawn has become an annual tradition. The two previous years featured the San Bernardino Symphony, which repeated its end-of-the-year Saturday night ticketed concert the following day.

This is the first year the Redlands Symphony performed, led by assistant conductor Co Boi Nguyen.

]]>
Thu, 14 May 2015 15:04:39 -0700
4264:21548 <![CDATA[Loma Linda specialist team travels to Nepal ]]> Courtney Beckwith Haas Time has passed and the news coverage is beginning to slow, but the reality is that Nepal is still in need of help after a huge earthquake on April 25.

Located 15 kilometers east of Kathmandu, in Banepa, Nepal, Scheer Memorial Hospital, an Adventist Health International site, received minimal structural damage and is still active. After the quake, Scheer responded by increasing its capacity to 130 beds. Now servicing the needs of 84 patients, of whom 41 are earthquake victims, the hospital administrator says they are attempting to have patients transferred to Scheer because they are capable of caring for more patients in this time of crisis. 

“Our hospital is fully functional,” Dale Mole, hospital CEO, reported. “We sustained some minor damage but nothing that would really impair our capabilities or capacity.” 

While the reports from the hospital are continuously positive, there is a growing need for orthopedic and trauma surgeons to care for the increasing volume of victims with crush injuries after the earthquake.

To help meet this need, Loma Linda University Health deployed an orthopedic surgical team on May 6 to travel to Scheer Memorial Hospital. The team is small, consisting of two orthopedic surgeons, an orthopedic resident, an anesthesiologist, a surgery scrub tech and a logistics and support person. Once the team arrives at the hospital, it will be easier to receive frequent and accurate updates, which will serve to guide future relief efforts.   

“I think that having an American team from Loma Linda might increase referrals and transfers to Scheer,” Mole said. 

Until a sense of what is needed is clearly defined, funds are the primary source of aid being solicited through Adventist Health International, which is based in Loma Linda. These funds go to support the operation of the hospital and the patients it serves in the Banepa region of Nepal.

Adventist Health International and Loma Linda University Health’s Global Health Institute are working together in this collaboration and once needs are identified, appropriate medical equipment and supplies will be procured to enable the hospital teams to care for the many injured patients in the surrounding areas.

Though far away, this hospital and the community it serves are in need of your support. Every small donation can make a huge impact in the lives of those in Nepal. To learn more about this hospital and how to help in the relief of this crisis, please visit ahiglobal.org and DONATE today.

 

]]>
Thu, 07 May 2015 10:56:37 -0700
4264:21556 <![CDATA[Celebrate Mother's Day Broadway-style with Redlands Symphony]]> Larry Kidder Mothers and their families will enjoy a free concert on the lawn at Loma Linda University Health, provided by the Redlands Symphony this Sunday, May 10.

The family-centered event will feature show tunes from well-known musicals by Rodgers and Hammerstein, including songs from “The King and I,” “The Sound of Music,” and “Oklahoma!” 

Broadway singer Norman Large will be one of two vocalists performing famous show tunes during the concert. Joining him will be Debbie Prutsman, a familiar face for those in Southern California who enjoy theatrical performances of musicals.

Those who plan to attend are encouraged to bring a picnic supper and blanket to spread on the lawn just north of Loma Linda University Health’s cloverleaf towers. Limited seating will also be available, as well as food by local vendors who will be on site for the event.

The concert is becoming an annual tradition — a gift by Loma Linda University Health to the communities served by the organization, as well as to students, employees and their families. It featured the San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra the past two years.

To find out more about the concert, visit redlandssymphony.com/concerts/spring-symphony

Co Boi Nguyen, assistant conductor of the Redlands Symphony, will conduct the orchestra during the light-hearted concert. A graduate of Philadelphia’s Curtis Institute and New York’s Juillard School of Music, Nguyen made her conducting debut in 2002 with Hanoi’s Vietnam National Symphony as the first woman and youngest conductor to direct that orchestra.

]]>
Thu, 07 May 2015 11:09:06 -0700
4264:21557 <![CDATA[Family health fair entices the interest of hundreds]]> Susan Onuma On, April 26, the Highland Springs Medical Plaza, at Highland Springs Medical Plaza, a Loma Linda University Health facility, hosted its second annual Family Health Fair. 

Held in the Beaumont facility parking lot, hundreds of local residents were in attendance. The event offered free health screenings, child safety presentations by the California Highway Patrol, veterans services counseling by the San Diego field office of the US Department of Veterans Affairs, massage therapy sessions, fire safety demonstrations and a fire truck tour with the Banning Fire Department. With so much going on, attendees were far from bored.

Several informational booths were available, courtesy of Loma Linda University Medical Center, covering a range of topics such as women’s health, diabetes and hypertension. Loma Linda University Health Care department of plastic surgery also provided information on its services, and Redlands Community Hospital offered lung capacity testing. The Side-by-Side Humanitarian Food Bank, part of the Calimesa Chamber of Commerce, had fresh fruits available to attendees. 

The opportunity for community members to “Live It” was showcased in the form of healthy cooking and exercise demonstrations held throughout the day. The taste testing and physical dance activities were some of the more popular attractions, drawing the attention of many fairgoers.   

For the children, there were a number of entertaining activities such as face painting, mini train rides, balloon animals and even a petting zoo, which featured a Ball Python, a turkey, turtles, a llama and a bearded dragon lizard. 

In addition to the booths, Loma Linda University School of Dentistry was in attendance with its mobile dental clinic, and Lifestream took the opportunity to hold a blood drive at the event. But no fair is complete without a few classic cars. A collection of antique cars was on display, bringing back happy memories for many of the crowd members.

Jesse Mock, vice president and administrator of the Highland Springs Medical Plaza, was thrilled at the turnout: “This is a very popular event. Every year, community members always appreciate the opportunity to participate in our free health screenings, and with the added attractions for the children, it has become an annual fun-filled family event.”

The event was gauged a huge success, based on the numbers of visitors, the many booths and activities, the smiles and laughter among the fairgoers, and the overheard comment, “This is fantastic!! Let’s spend the day here!!”

]]>
Thu, 07 May 2015 11:10:12 -0700
4264:21566 <![CDATA[Shuttle routes change]]> Loma Linda University Health offers shuttle services between its campuses. As of May 4, changes to the routes have taken place.

The yellow route has been absorbed into the red, blue and green routes, with stops at the Surgical Hospital, Behavioral Health Institute and Behavioral Medicine Center now serviced on call only. For these three stops, passengers can call 909-651-3022 or ext. 53022 to request a car to take them or pick them up at no charge.

The shuttle routes will also stop at 9:00 p.m. in front of LLU Medical Center.  

The white route that runs from Coleman parking lot to the Centennial Complex will also stop running at 9:00 p.m. 

Riders of the white route who park at Centennial Complex and leave after 9:00 p.m. will need to contact the office of parking and traffic for information on other parking arrangements.

New shuttle maps will be installed at shuttle stops and on the VIP website.  The link, viewable from on campus, is http://vip.mc.llumc.edu/vip/Departments/LLUHS-Departments/Transportation-and-Fleet-Services/Transportation/Teletrac-Shuttle-Tracking/Index.page.

The routes can also be viewed on a smart phone. To see the shuttles on your phone, download the Teletrac Inc. app. Account information is as follows:

Account ID: 307517
User name: 1111
Password:1234

For more information, please call the transportation department at 909-651-3020 or ext. 53020. The department can also be reached by email at Transportationservices@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 07 May 2015 11:31:25 -0700
4264:21568 <![CDATA[Visit new health plan website ]]> Heather Reifsnyder One of many benefits of working at Loma Linda University Health is the affordable and comprehensive health insurance it offers its employees. The organization chooses to run its own health plans in order to make certain of this.

Loma Linda University Health also offers a variety of Living Whole wellness services to employees, such as programs to help lose weight, stop smoking and manage diabetes. Learn about the health plans and these wellness benefits at a new website that puts all the information in one place. Visit myllu.llu.edu/livingwhole, where you will also find healthy recipes, educational videos, individualized learning modules, walking maps and wellness handouts to share with friends and family.

The website also offers the ability to sign up for cooking demonstrations, monthly Living Whole webinars and the weight and diabetes management programs.

One of the videos on the website (also embedded below) features Mark Hubbard, senior vice president for risk management and payroll, explaining how Loma Linda University Health offers superior health plans for employees.

“We are self-insured in part because we want to be able to control both our costs as well as the benefits that we provide to our employees,” Hubbard says. “Our costs have gone up very modestly over time, and in contrast to a lot of other employers, we’ve been very focused on avoiding shifting costs back to our employees. “

How so? While many other employers have systematically increased the cost of health coverage per month, Loma Linda University Health has rarely increased the price of coverage for full-time employees. Additionally, unlike with the majority of health plans, employees at Loma Linda University Health don’t pay an annual deductible — which averages about $1,200 per year at many places — before their health insurance kicks in.

Furthermore, last year Loma Linda University Health launched the Wholeness Plan to empower employees to take a greater role in managing their own health. In addition to costing less than the base plan, employees joining the Wholeness Plan also received the benefit of a comprehensive wellness check with biometric screening. This helps employees understand their own health so they can make positive steps to improve their wellness.

“This has been a great opportunity for employees to get a very comprehensive health assessment and better understand where they can invest in their own health,” Hubbard says, noting that the results are kept confidential are not used to qualify or disqualify employees from coverage.

Learn more about the benefits of health plans at Loma Linda University Health in this video, during which Hubbard is interviewed by Olivia Moses, DrPH, wellness program administrator in the department of risk management. 

]]>
Thu, 07 May 2015 11:55:25 -0700
4264:21575 <![CDATA[Education and interactive fun for over 1,200 kids at Children's Day]]> Briana Pastorino The 30th annual Children’s Day at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital was once again a delightful success. Over 1,200 kids from local schools and the community enjoyed more than 25 interactive demonstrations and educational booths provided by Loma Linda University students and Loma Linda University Health staff and volunteers.

“Children’s Day is an opportunity for kids to learn about the things that can happen inside a hospital in a non-threatening way,” said Dorothy Brooks, director of LLU Children’s Hospital child life services. “These hands-on and interactive experiences can make a hospital or doctor’s office seem less scary if they ever end up being a patient.”

Children’s Day is sponsored and organized by the child life services department at Children’s Hospital, which is a team of specialists who work to minimize fears and stress experienced by children, adolescents and families during hospitalization and who also develop age-appropriate activities for pediatric patients.

Various booths at the event included a teddy bear/doll clinic, finger casting, education on making healthy food choices, demonstrations on the human respiratory system, doc for a day, fun dental X-ray demonstrations, fire and water safety, and many others.

]]>
Thu, 07 May 2015 12:56:53 -0700
4264:21573 <![CDATA[Preview of commencement 2015]]> Larry Kidder, MA Yes, it’s that time of year again. The first of two commencement weekends at Loma Linda University will take place two weekends from now, May 22-24, with baccalaureate services on Saturday morning, May 23, and commencement ceremonies throughout the day on Sunday, May 24.

The weekend will crown the educational journeys of students from Loma Linda University School of Medicine, School of Pharmacy and School of Dentistry.

The remaining five schools — Loma Linda University School of Allied Health Professions, School of Public Health, School of Behavioral Health, School of Religion, and School of Nursing — will honor their graduates during the weekend of June 12-14.

This second weekend will include a Friday evening program celebrating graduates and their service, baccalaureate services on Saturday morning, June 13, and commencement ceremonies on Sunday, June 14.

 

Commencement Speakers

School of Medicine: Bradley P. Gilbert, MD, MPP, chief executive officer of the Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP)

School of Pharmacy and School of Dentistry: David I. Levy, MD, gifted neurosurgeon recognized nationally for his skill and a proponent of praying with patients

School of Allied Health Professions: James Rafferty, senior pastor of the Cascade Seventh-day Adventist Church in Bend, Oregon, and vice president of Light Bearers Ministry

School of Public Health: Donald G. King, DrPH, MA, president of the Atlantic Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists

School of Behavioral Health and School of Religion: Paul Wangai Jr, MBChB, PhD, expert in international health, HIV/AIDS, maternal-child health, environmental health, and nutrition

School of Nursing: Katia Reinert, PhD, MS, family nurse practitioner and public health clinical nurse specialist

 

Commencement Events

Saturday, May 16

11:00 a.m.      Diversity Consecration, Campus Hill Church

Friday, May 22: Consecrations/Hoodings

3:00 p.m.        Basic Sciences Graduate Programs, Randall Amphitheater

6:00 p.m.        Dental Hygiene, Campus Hill Church

7:00 p.m.        School of Medicine, Loma Linda University Church

7:00 p.m.        School of Pharmacy, Wong Kerlee International Conference Center

Saturday, May 23: Baccalaureate Services, Loma Linda University Church

9:00 a.m.        School of Medicine and School of Pharmacy           

11:45 a.m.      School of Dentistry

Sunday, May 24: Commencement Ceremonies, University Mall (facing Coleman/Chan Shun Pavilions)

8:30 a.m.        School of Medicine

1:30 p.m.        School of Pharmacy

5:00 p.m.        School of Dentistry

Friday, June 12: Consecrations/Hoodings

10:30 a.m.      School of Behavioral Health, Department of Social Work and

                        Social Ecology, Loma Linda University Church

11:00 a.m.      School of Public Health, Drayson Center, Collins Auditorium

1:30 p.m.        School of Behavioral Health, Doctoral Students, Loma Linda University Church

4:00 p.m.        School of Allied Health Professions, Nutrition and Dietetics,

Centennial Complex, Damazo Amphitheater

7:30 p.m.        Celebration of Graduates Program (five schools), Loma Linda University Church

Saturday, June 13: Baccalaureate Services, Loma Linda University Church

9:00 a.m.        School of Allied Health Professions and School of Public Health

11:45 a.m.      School of Behavioral Health, School of Nursing and School of Religion

Sunday, June 14: Commencement Ceremonies, Drayson Center, Opsahl Gymnasium

8:00 a.m.        School of Allied Health Professions – Allied Programs

10:30 a.m.      School of Allied Health Professions – Physical Therapy

1:00 p.m.        School of Public Health

3:30 p.m.        School of Behavioral Health and School of Religion

6:00 p.m.        School of Nursing

For up-to-date information and to access the GradCast, please visit: llu.edu/commencement

]]>
Thu, 07 May 2015 12:13:56 -0700
4264:21426 <![CDATA[The value of what we do every day]]> Advancement films ]]> This video illustrates the core values of Loma Linda University Health through stories of real people who work here, introduced by leaders of the organization describing how values are the heart of this organization.  

]]>
Thu, 30 Apr 2015 11:27:20 -0700
4264:21443 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- Making the most of time with your doctor]]> Heather Reifsnyder Time with a skilled physician is precious, but visiting a medical office can also be a nerve-wracking experience involving sticks and pokes, awkward exams, waiting time and those oh-so-fun and all-too-revealing paper gowns.

In the midst of such discomforts, it can be hard to remember important questions and accurately share symptoms and concerns.

But to Live It — meaning to have a life of wholeness — we must take charge of our own health care in order to maximize wellness.  

To ensure the most of time spent with the doctor, take advantage of these tips from the Loma Linda University Health online wellness library.

]]>
Thu, 30 Apr 2015 12:51:40 -0700
4264:21430 <![CDATA[Record-breaking 1,150 participate in PossAbilities Triathlon]]> Jiggs Gallagher About 1,200 registered participants ran, biked and swam in the 13th annual PossAbilities Triathlon on April 26 at the Loma Linda University Drayson Center.

“We had a total attendance of about 2,700 athletes with their families and friends,” says Pedro Payne, PhD, PossAbilities director. “It’s the largest registration and attendance we’ve ever had.”

PossAbilities is an outreach program of Loma Linda University Health that helps people with disabilities live full lives. 

Payne added that this year was the first of a three-year sponsorship of the organization by Quest Diagnostics. The company made a $1 million commitment to the program. Molina Healthcare and the Girl Scouts also supported the event by sponsoring food for participants.

“Of our 1,200 participants, 87 were challenged athletes,” Payne says.

The family event featured face painting for children, food and beverages, 35 vendors and exhibits, and a rock-climbing wall.

“It was a wonderful event,” Payne says. “It gets better every year.” 

5K overall winners – male with finish times
Alex Miller – 18:46
John Alvarez – 19:16
Kurtis Martin – 19:30 

5K overall winners – female
Wendy Hetherinton – 22:44
Trish Morey – 23:32
Camillia Brieno – 23:40

Tri overall winners – male
Gage Hale – 53:26
Lucas Korcek – 54:16
Matt Underwood – 54:39

Tri overall winners – female
Julie Ertel – 55:20 – professional triathlete from Team USA
Shaneis Malouff – 59:20
Sinta Troccoli – 1:02

Challenged athlete tri winners – male
TRI 1 – Steve Hoffman
TRI 2 – Andre Barbieri
TRI 3 - Greg Tyler
TRI 4 – Tony Troccoli
TRI 5 – Esau Garcia
TRI Other – Spenser Lim

Challenged athlete tri winners – female
TRI 1 – Courtney Ryan
TRI 2 – Molly Bloom
TRI 3 – Natalie Little
TRI 5 – Denise Rozporka
TRI Other – Bernadine Irwin

Challenged athlete 5K winners – male
Day chair – Erick Castillo
Power chair – Joshua Dotson
Hand cycle – Luis Ovando
Race chair – David Wyatt
Other – James Bernardez

Challenged athlete 5K winners – female
Amputee – Shanina Rice
Day chair – Jaclyn Cimino
Power chair – Stacy Hull
Other – Rajani Lim

Tri relay winners
1st – Nicole Longfellow and Hunter Wilson
2nd – James and Sarah Perfect
3rd – Kurt Griffis and Drew Miracle

]]>
Thu, 30 Apr 2015 11:43:48 -0700
4264:21428 <![CDATA[Bring your kids to Children's Day]]> Heather Reifsnyder Kids ages 3 to 8 are invited to Loma Linda University Health on Wednesday, May 6, for the 30th annual Children’s Day hosted by LLU Children’s Hospital child life department.

The health fair will run from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the lawn north of Loma Linda University Medical Center.

Using hands-on activities, Children’s Day teaches kids about health and hospitals in a non-threatening environment and has been doing so since 1985. A popular event, it usually draws crowds of about 1,000.

The May 6 event will feature a teddy bear clinic, a pretend finger-casting clinic, a venomous animals educational exhibit, information about dental health and fire safety, and more. It is sponsored by Farmer Boys. Jamba Juice will also be present to provide healthy drinks for the children.

“Because of the success of this community health fair, Children’s Day has become a beloved annual event for which we are excited to celebrate the 30th year,” says Dorothy Brooks, MA, child life specialist and event coordinator.

Registration information

Children must be accompanied by an adult, and groups larger than 20 should register. For more information or to register, call 1-800-825-KIDS.

]]>
Thu, 30 Apr 2015 11:36:53 -0700
4264:21420 <![CDATA[Adventist hospital in Nepal responds to earthquake]]> Courtney Beckwith Haas “Around lunchtime as my friends and I were on the second story of a shop in Pokahara we started to feel the building move. Everyone quickly headed for the stairs while remaining fairly composed. It wasn’t until we were all outside and the earthquake continued and seemed to build in strength that those around started yelling and pointing at nearby trees and power lines which they feared might fall on them. Some people were crying and holding onto their loved ones. There were dogs running by whining and whimpering. The shaking and writhing of the ground seemed to last for about 20 to 30 seconds.” 

Many aftershocks would follow.

This is a direct account by a Loma Linda University student that was published as a CNN iReport after the earthquake in Nepal on April 25. Submitted by Justin Woods, a fourth-year medical student from Loma Linda University, Woods is currently finishing a rotation at the Adventist Health International site Scheer Memorial Hospital. Scheduled to leave Nepal in early May, Woods and his wife, Betsy, a nurse, both experienced the quake firsthand. 

In addition to Woods, Charles Graves, another fourth-year medical student from Loma Linda University, was also finishing his rotation at Scheer and was able to fly out of Nepal the day after the earthquake. 

Catastrophic situation in Nepal 

At a magnitude of 7.8, the earthquake caused irrevocable damage to the lives of thousands. Structural damage, demolished homes, and injuries will continue to cause death due to infections and other health issues. The aftermath is catastrophic.  

As of April 29, the Nepali government reported 5,006 killed and 10,194 injured by the earthquake; additionally, an estimated 2.8 million are displaced due to destroyed and damaged homes, according to a report by the United Nations. 

In addition to these devastating numbers, nearly 90 percent of the health facilities within Ramechapp, Nuwakot, Sindhupalchowk and Gorkha have been severely damaged and are unable to help people.

Situation at Scheer Memorial Hospital 

Located in Banepa, Nepal, Scheer Memorial Hospital received minimal structural damage and is still active. During the earthquake, all staff and patients were moved outside into makeshift tent hospitals, and two cesarean sections were performed. A facility with the capacity of 82 beds is now servicing the needs of nearly 200 inpatients.

“Scheer has become a major treatment center for the earthquake, due to its proximity to many of the mountain villages,” says Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Adventist Health International.

Carlyle Welch used to work at Scheer Memorial. He says, “The hospital is reported to still have water which apparently is in short supply in Kathmandu. There have been many smaller after quakes to the point that people are afraid to sleep inside. The nighttime temperatures are uncomfortably cool this time of year and there has been significant rain.”

In a Facebook post, written on April 28, Scheer Memorial Hospital’s official site said, “Yes, we were and still are in the earthquake zone. We are still having aftershocks. Yes, we were not hit as hard as some places, but we were hit. We are devastated, but feel strong and glad that we are helping so many of our beloved and precious citizens. We are overwhelmed by the love we have had from around the world. Please keep your prayers coming. Right now that is the best thing you can do for us. Please know that we are strong, although sad, but ready to keep going and we are so thankful to the Lord for His blessings.”

How to help 

Until a sense of what is needed is clearly defined, funds are being solicited through Adventist Health International to support the operation of the hospital and the patients it serves in the Banepa region of Nepal. Adventist Health International and the Global Health Institute are working together and once needs are identified, appropriate medical equipment and supplies will be procured to enable the hospital team to care for the many injured patients. In addition to this, specialty teams are being identified to travel to Nepal when the request comes.

To help in the relief of this crisis, please donate funds through ahiglobal.org or go directly to the donation page by clicking HERE.  

]]>
Thu, 30 Apr 2015 11:02:29 -0700
4264:21386 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- A stony journey]]> Heather Reifsnyder Last week, we learned about the stone monument in the Founders Plaza that commemorates American Medical Missionary College (AMMC), a former Seventh-day Adventist school of higher education in Battle Creek, Michigan, where many of Loma Linda University’s early faculty members were trained more than 100 years ago.

The challenge last week was to identify how much this stone weighs. Chosen as random winners among those who answered 1,720 pounds are Jo Anna Codington, Christine Pahuratana and Diana Green. Please email pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

How did the AMMC stone, donated by its class of 1899 and engraved with the school’s motto, “Let us follow Him,” come to Loma Linda University?

In 1950-51, the U.S. Army razed the site of Battle Creek College and pushed everything into the basement. The AMMC stone was about to go in there, too, when a man named Andy Anderson asked for it to be saved. It was then placed on the grounds of Battle Creek Academy until 1955, when it was transported to Loma Linda University for LLU’s 50th anniversary celebrations.

The stone was loaded onto A.Z. Morrison’s ¾-ton truck on May 7, 1955, and began its journey west. Tire repairs were necessary twice in New Mexico, once in Tucumcari and once in Santa Rosa. In Arizona, 90 miles out from Flagstaff, almost to the top of a 9,000-foot mountain, the truck stalled. 

A soft-drink truck came to the rescue, towing the vehicle, its drivers, and its large stone over the top.

At 2:30 p.m. on Friday, May 13, the stone arrived in Loma Linda. It was unveiled on a June 5 ceremony with individuals including seven members of the AMMC class of 1899 present.

The trivia posts are going on a hiatus. Before signing off, now is a good time to acknowledge Richard Schaefer, official historian of Loma Linda University Health, for all the painstakingly detailed information he has preserved for the organization and helped provide for this column. Schaefer is currently writing a several-volume definitive history of Loma Linda University Health. A big “thank you” to him. 

]]>
Thu, 23 Apr 2015 13:08:34 -0700
4264:21365 <![CDATA[Redlands Symphony to offer free concert on the lawn]]> Larry Kidder Loma Linda University Health invites employees, students, former patients, families and all members of surrounding communities to attend a free concert on the lawn featuring the Redlands Symphony on Sunday, May 10.

The concert will begin at 5:00 p.m. on the lawn just north of Loma Linda University Medical Center’s cloverleaf towers. Families are invited to bring along a blanket and picnic basket to enjoy while they listen to famous show tunes by Rodgers and Hammerstein, including songs from “The King and I,” “The Sound of Music” and “Oklahoma!”

The free family concert will provide a perfect ending to Mother’s Day celebrations. Chairs are available on a first-come first-served basis. For those who wish to purchase food, local vendors will also be on site.

Assistant Redlands Symphony conductor Co Boi Nguyen will direct the well-known local orchestra, and will be joined by vocalists Norman Large and Debbie Prutsman.

Visit redlandssymphony.com/concerts/spring-symphony to find out more about the free concert.

]]>
Thu, 23 Apr 2015 11:31:39 -0700
4264:21357 <![CDATA[ABC7 Eyewitness News features Loma Linda]]> Courtney Beckwith Haas Many Loma Linda locals know about the community’s designation as a Blue Zone® — an area that is distinguished by the fact that residents typically live far longer than people living elsewhere. Loma Linda was given this designation by Dan Buettner, author of “The Blue Zones: 9 Lessons for Living Longer from the People Who’ve Lived the Longest.”

Last week, ABC7 Eyewitness News in Los Angeles featured Loma Linda as a community of longevity.

Featuring Daniel Fontoura, MBA, vice president of wholeness at Loma Linda University Health, and local residents as they worked out in the LLU Drayson Center swimming pool, this report showcases the fact that people within the Loma Linda area typically live up to 8 years longer than normal.

View the video here.

]]>
Thu, 23 Apr 2015 10:31:09 -0700
4264:21358 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- Smile your way to better wellness]]> Courtney Beckwith Haas When life gets bogged down with worries and daily stressors — be they work, cooking, cleaning, doctors’ appointments, or taking the kids to school — it is important to remember one thing. Smile. 

While smiling is not magically going to change your life, the optimism behind that smile just might. Smiling can brighten your day, bring out joy in those around you and always makes people wonder what you are up to. But more importantly, having an optimistic perspective can increase your overall health. 

According to an article in the Loma Linda University Health health library, “Researchers have reviewed the results of over 80 studies to look for common findings and found that optimism has a remarkable impact on your physical health.” 

This study was based on the overall longevity of people with optimistic personalities and how that mindset impacts heart health, immunity to germs, cancer outcomes, pregnancy outcomes, the body’s ability to survive disease, how the individual handles pain and other health aspects.

The final discovery: “It seemed that those who had a more optimistic outlook did better and had better results than those who were pessimistic.” 

So the bottom line is having a positive outlook on life may increase happiness, health and the ability to take on the day-to-day rush we are greeted with every morning.

It is important to note that being positive is not always the easiest thing to ask of ourselves, but thinking about trying to change our outlooks and perceptions of the world is a step in the right direction. To help everyone out, here are a few ideas from the article for how to become more optimistic.

  • Think positive! This is very generic advice but really, try to think positively about yourself and others around you, and you might start to see a difference in your own life.
  • Don’t be competitive. If you are comparing yourself to others then you will never be happy. Each person is a beautiful representation of life and everyone has unique talents not to be competed with.
  • Don’t be a “Debbie Downer.” Go out of your way to find the good in situations and it will become easier over time.
  • When challenged with a problem, try to imagine a positive outcome. Success over defeat is always important to focus on.
  • Explore your beliefs about life’s meaning and purpose.
  • Exercise. This is something that may cause you stress to begin with, but once you establish a routine you might just find that you enjoy it. Improving your physical health through exercise, healthy eating and attaining adequate sleep will impact your life positively.
  • Finally, challenge your mental capacity every day. Go out of your way to learn something new each day and you will find that you have something positive to look forward to. 
]]>
Thu, 23 Apr 2015 10:48:56 -0700
4264:21361 <![CDATA[New dean named for School of Public Health ]]> Marcus Chapman Loma Linda University Health announces that Helen Hopp Marshak, PhD, has been selected to lead the Loma Linda University School of Public Health as its dean. For more than two decades, Hopp Marshak has served in the school as a faculty member, and for the past four years as associate dean for academic affairs.  

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health, together with a carefully selected search committee, voted unanimously to recommend Hopp Marshak to the Board of Trustees. Hart stated that the choice was made with an eye on selecting a leader who would continue the momentum of the school's recent changes.

“I am delighted Helen Hopp Marshak has accepted this position to lead our School of Public Health,” notes Hart. “Her rich background at our school, from the classroom to administration, has prepared her well for this role.”

Hopp Marshak began working in the School of Public Health in 1991 as an assistant professor. She became an associate professor in 1994 and has served as associate dean for academic affairs since 2010. She is a master's certified health education specialist (MCHES) and received the P. William Dysinger Excellence in Teaching Award in 2002 for her work as a professor.

“Helen understands research and academics, and I believe will lead our school through the challenging times ahead,” adds Hart. “With the burgeoning interest in population health, this can be our finest hour for the skills our faculty have and the strategies we have long espoused.”

Hopp Marshak succeeds Ronald Carter, PhD, provost of Loma Linda University, who served as interim dean from Jan. 1 – April 16, 2015.

]]>
Thu, 23 Apr 2015 10:57:57 -0700
4264:21363 <![CDATA[Family Fitness Fun aims to get the whole family off the couch]]> James Ponder Fitness should be fun for the whole family. That’s the idea behind the Family Fitness Fun 5K Run/Walk & Expo to be held Sunday, May 3, from 8:00 a.m. to noon at the Burrage Mansion, located at 1205 W. Crescent Ave. in Redlands.

“There will be tons of interesting things for families to do,” observes Dixie Watkins, president of the sponsoring Big Hearts for Little Hearts Loma Linda Guild. “In addition to the 5K run/walk through the streets of Redlands, there will be a guided adventure course for children, a live animal demonstration from Forever Wild Exotic Animal Sanctuary, colorful and interactive exhibits to entertain and motivate people to better health, several prize drawings – including a grand prize of four tickets to Knott’s Berry Farm – and a T-shirt for everyone who participates in the 5K. It’s going to be an awesome day!”

The organization Watkins leads was founded in 1999 to benefit the patients of Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital. One of those patients, 11-year-old Adrian Grejada, will participate in the 5K. “I’m very grateful,” Grejada says. “I understand how much they care.”

“When Adrian was 10, he was injured by a car that plunged through the fence at his school,” Watkins reports. “As a result, he had to have part of his right leg amputated. Today, he wears a prosthetic device and is able to run and play like other kids his age. We’re excited that he’s going to run in the race.”

Watkins says one of the most innovative activities of the day will be the bicycle smoothie machine. “It’s the coolest thing,” she says of the innovative contraption that will be featured at a booth for RICO, a high school mountain biking team. “You put the smoothie ingredients in the mixing chamber, then climb aboard the bicycle and pedal away. When you’re finished exercising, you enjoy a delicious smoothie!”

More than 25 sponsors will hosts booths at the Expo, including Walter’s Automotive, Curves, Jazzercise, and Karate for Kids. Also participating will be community organizations including Safe Kids and YMCA, and health care providers like Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center and Garden Pediatrics. Many of the sponsors will offer giveaway items and will hold prize drawings of their own.

“The Redlands Fire Department will bring a hook-and-ladder fire truck for kids to climb on,” Watkins reports. “The Redlands Police Department will provide free fingerprinting for kids. Other sponsors will offer face-painting and similar fun activities.”

Admission is $35 per person ($100 per family) for those who want to run or walk in the 5K and enjoy the expo. For those who want to just attend the expo, the cost is $10 per adult or $5 per student. Another $5 buys six tickets for the grand prize drawing, with proceeds benefiting guild projects for the children of the Inland Empire.

Due to restrictions on the number of people allowed on the grounds of Burrage Mansion, participation is limited to the first 400 who register. Online registration is available at LLUCH.org, and while there may be walk-in spaces available the day of the event, Watkins urges everyone to play it safe and register online.

“All in all, this is going to be a wonderful day,” Watkins concludes. “I can’t think of a better way to get the whole family excited about being outdoors and exercising!”

 

]]>
Thu, 23 Apr 2015 11:03:37 -0700
4264:21281 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- A weighty question]]> Heather Reifsnyder A number of the early faculty members of Loma Linda University during the years after its founding in 1905 had received their education at another Seventh-day Adventist school of higher education, American Medical Mission College (AMMC) in Battle Creek, Michigan.

The AMMC class of 1899 — its first graduating class — donated a stone monument to their alma mater that bore its motto, “Let Us Follow Him.” 

Today, that very large rock sits at the Founders Plaza* on the Loma Linda University Health campus. Identifying the stone and the organization it commemorated was last week’s trivia challenge. Annette Brock, Lisa Marie Benanti and Gerald Rezes are the random winners among those who correctly answered the AMMC rock. Please email pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

How, when and why did the stone get from Michigan to Loma Linda? It was no easy task, given the monument’s heavy weight. Next week’s post will tell the story, along with the answer to today’s challenge: state how much the rock in question weighs. 

Email your answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, April 21, for the chance to be a random winner. One answer per person. 

* Wondering where the Founders Plaza is? It is between Magan Hall and the Heritage Research Center at the Del E. Webb Memorial Library. Check it out.

]]>
Thu, 16 Apr 2015 12:42:27 -0700
4264:21276 <![CDATA[Airing tomorrow back-to-back: season 1 of 'Life on the Line' ]]> Advancement films “Life on the Line,” Loma Linda University Health’s nationally broadcast show, can be viewed in its entirety April 17 on WORLD Channel.

All six episodes of season 1 will play back-to-back from 4 to 7 p.m. Pacific Standard Time. “Life on the Line” will leave you inspired as you experience stories of hope and resilience. 

Season 2 will begin airing this summer; stay tuned for details.

Find out if you have WORLD Channel here: http://bit.ly/1iROjVS

View trailers for each of the season 1 episodes via the links below.

Episode 1: Heart to Heart: https://vimeo.com/77000890

Episode 2: Out of the Rubble: https://vimeo.com/76998252

Episode 3: End It Now: https://vimeo.com/76998602

Episode 4: Baby Blue: https://vimeo.com/77006035

Episode 5: Armed for the Challenge: https://vimeo.com/77003378

Episode 6: Anchoring Hope https://vimeo.com/76998770

]]>
Thu, 16 Apr 2015 12:04:19 -0700
4264:21277 <![CDATA[Remember to thank a volunteer]]> Courtney Haas This week, April 12 to 18, focuses on the people who choose to give back of their precious and valuable time to support the mission of Loma Linda University Health. 

During this Volunteer Recognition Week, Loma Linda University Health wants you to remember to thank our wonderful volunteers!

Volunteers are a huge part of making patients and visitors feel comfortable at Loma Linda University Medical Center. Whether working with patients, providing hospitality services, or aiding in pet visitations, volunteers are the heart of the hospital.

“Volunteers are critical to the patient experience. The role of the volunteer begins with an escort when a patient enters the hospital, and continues throughout their stay,” Beth Rose, director of hospitality services, says.

“Throughout patients’ experience at Loma Linda University Health, there are opportunities for volunteers to listen and connect with them on an emotional level. Volunteers are invaluable and we are grateful for their service.”

Hear from some of the Loma Linda University Health volunteers in this video: 

 

This week, Loma Linda University Health has been saying thank you by providing mobile carts filled with giveaways, massages by appointment, and breakfasts, lunches and snacks to the volunteers within the Medical Center. 

Here are a few of the diverse areas through which volunteers support Loma Linda University Health: 

• Gift shop
• Hospitality services (escort and golf cart)
• Child life (playrooms and NICU)
• Patient units
• Clerical
• Chaplain services
• Emergency department
• Music Connection
• P.A.W.S – pet visitation
• Teen Summer 

Other volunteers work in different parts of Loma Linda University Health, whether on the university side or other clinical locations such as the LLU Behavioral Medicine Center.

Each area of work is equally valuable and could not be adequately accomplished without the help of people who choose to volunteer their personal free time to the enrichment of others.

To become involved in one of these volunteer programs, candidates can apply online at www.lomalindavolunteers.org

]]>
Thu, 16 Apr 2015 12:04:59 -0700
4264:21266 <![CDATA[Summertime mission opportunities in South America and Africa are fast approaching]]> Courtney Beckwith Haas Tomorrow is the deadline to sign up for LLU's summer mission trips. Gain the experience of a lifetime.]]> Time is running out to sign up for summertime mission trips through Loma Linda University’s Students for International Mission Service (SIMS) program.

As a Loma Linda University Health student, staff or faculty member, you are eligible to sign up for one of these incredible experiences. While participating in a SIMS trip, group members will be taking part in our global mission that enables participants to offer their humanitarian services and health care skillsets to communities throughout Malawi, Peru and Brazil.

The sign-up deadline for these two trips is this Friday, April 17.  

Malawi

June 17 - July 2, 2015

SIMS is excited to be returning to Malamulo Adventist Hospital in Malawi. This site serves as a Loma Linda University international field station, and it is one of the oldest Seventh-day Adventist mission hospitals, celebrating its centennial anniversary this year. While participating in this trip, students will have the opportunity to contribute to long-term development of the community by visiting clinics, holding health fairs, leading out in vacation Bible school and more.

 

Peru

June 20 - July 3, 2015

This summer features the first trip that SIMS has ever taken to Peru. Join the team as SIMS collaborates with ADRA Peru to hold health camps, nutrition workshops, emergency response training, vacation Bible school and so much more.

 

Brazil

August 13 - 26, 2015

On this trip, SIMS will partner with Social Action Volunteers of the Amazon, a non-profit that will facilitate connecting with local Brazilians while reconstructing a church building that was built in 1985. In addition to the construction renovation, trip participants will help lead vacation Bible school, provide health fairs and lead worship in the local villages.

To learn more about how you can be a part of SIMS and sign up today for your experience of a lifetime, visit lluglobal.com/SIMS.

 

]]>
Thu, 16 Apr 2015 10:04:09 -0700
4264:21263 <![CDATA[Sign up to be a part of PossAbilities Triathlon]]> Courtney Beckwith Haas Loma Linda University Health invites employees, students and community members to participate in the 13th Annual PossAbilities Triathlon at Loma Linda University Health on Sunday, April 26. 

Event coordinators are anticipating nearly 900 participants this year, and everyone is encouraged to partake in this inspiring event. 

The event is sponsored by Quest Diagnostics and will feature a traditional 5K run/walk/roll, a kid’s triathlon and an adult triathlon in which both able-bodied and physically challenged athletes can compete side-by-side.

Online registration closes Friday, April 24, at 2 p.m., and race day registration begins at 5:30 a.m. with the race starting at 7 a.m. With time running out, be sure to sign up as soon as possible.

With fun activities for all ages, the event promises to leave everyone with a smile. Whether competing in a race, volunteering, cheering on your favorite athlete, enjoying the live local music, scurrying to the top of the climbing wall, having your face painted or playing in the bounce house (if you are a kid), everyone is sure to have a good time and end the day anticipating next year’s PossAbilities triathlon.

PossAbilities is a free, non-profit, community outreach program for all ages. Loma Linda University Health has run this program since 2001.

Cotie Williams, manager for community outreach and patient experience, explains its purpose: “The goal is to provide those with permanent physical disabilities support and resources to stay active and healthy in life. The annual triathlon allows us an opportunity to create awareness for those with disabilities by providing an exciting event to integrate both able-bodied and disabled community members.”

To learn more about the event and sign up today, please click here. For more information about PossAbilities, visit www.teampossabilities.org.

]]>
Thu, 16 Apr 2015 09:19:49 -0700
4264:21274 <![CDATA[Board action unifies Loma Linda University Health]]> Jiggs Gallagher A special membership meeting of Loma Linda University Adventist Health Sciences Center (LLUAHSC) took place simultaneously in several locations on April 14 to take an historic step moving toward a single governance for the entities on campus.

A total of 182 people were involved in the unanimous decision. A number gathered in the Centennial Complex’s Damazo Amphitheater, where they participated in a video teleconference with others who were attending the annual spring meeting of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists in Silver Spring, Maryland.

Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health, was in Silver Spring for the meeting. He was joined there by Lowell Cooper, chair of the LLUAHSC Board of Trustees, who presided over the meeting. Another 18 members listened to the meeting by phone from various locations.

By LLUAHSC bylaws, individuals invited to participate in the special membership meeting included the General Conference Executive Committee members residing in the North American Division and officers from other world divisions of the church. Loma Linda representatives included board members and corporate officers of the core corporations at Loma Linda as well as physicians from the medical staff, deans from the eight university schools and representatives from the faculty, students, alumni, employees and members of the local community.

The purpose of the constituency meeting was threefold:

• To amend the LLUAHSC bylaws to enlarge the size of the Board of Trustees by making provision for physician and hospital administration representation and facilitate progress toward a single governance system for the organization,

• To authorize the upcoming board meeting in May to fill the added positions, and

• To approve a resolution to amend the Articles of Incorporation to change the name from Loma Linda University Adventist Health Sciences Center (LLUAHSC) to Loma Linda University Health.

The action is a first step in unifying the governance of the organization, according to Hart. More work will be done over the next year or so as the enterprise moves toward becoming a unified Loma Linda University Health.

]]>
Thu, 16 Apr 2015 11:49:26 -0700
4264:21222 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- A rocking celebration]]> Heather Reifsnyder Employees and students of Loma Linda University Health regularly hear and read the phrase “to make man whole” — the motto of the organization. But from when and where did those words arise?

They date to the 50th anniversary of Loma Linda University, celebrated in 1955. A planning committee met regularly throughout 1954 to plan for the year ahead, and one of their goals was to choose a theme for the year that would encapsulate the organization’s first 50 years.

Last week’s trivia challenge was to name the theme they chose. The random winners among those who answered “to make man whole” are Arnie Salgado, Janelle Weller and Mignon Mosley. Please email pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

That theme became Loma Linda University Health’s official motto in 1956.

In addition to the 50th anniversary theme becoming a permanent part of the campus culture, a physical fixture was added to the campus in connection with the golden anniversary. It is still found today at the Founders Plaza. This week’s two-part question: What is it, and what organization does it commemorate?

Email the answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, April 14, for the chance to become a random winner. One answer per person. 

]]>
Thu, 09 Apr 2015 11:55:57 -0700
4264:21232 <![CDATA[Notes from the President -- April 2015]]> Dr. Richard Hart   April 2015
Chapel -- A weekly hour of peace

I am usually in my Magan Hall office on Wednesday mornings, working through a variety of appointments. Around 10:45 I stand up and look out the window to the north, across the campus Richard Hartquad. There I see a stream of our students, hundreds of them, coming out of the Centennial Complex and other buildings and heading up the Centennial Pathway to the Loma Linda University Church. I know where they are going, and what they are expecting — chapel service, or University@Worship, as we officially call it.

Once every week, throughout the academic year, our campus family — students, staff and faculty — gather in the University Church for an hour of fellowship and worship. Up until about a decade ago, it was held at 8 a.m. on Wednesday mornings. But we decided to move it to 11 and make it a special feature of the campus. We fill the church, which officially now has 1844 seats — an auspicious number to be sure! It is required attendance for most of our students, unless they are involved in clinical services or are away from campus.

With our diverse student body, representing some 60 different religious backgrounds, we occasionally get asked why we do this. Why require those from other faith persuasions to attend our religious services, sing our songs, listen to our stories and learn our lessons? The answer is simple — we feel that the individual and collective spiritual atmosphere on campus is enhanced by worshipping together. While we seek to be accepting of all cultures and religions, we also believe that this campus is dedicated to a Christian perspective, an Adventist perspective to be even more precise, that offers understanding and value to others.

As I stood there this last Wednesday, listening to a church full of young voices singing together, a cappella on the last verse, it moved me. With the lights dimmed and the strains of “It Is Well with My Soul” filling the church, I felt at peace in this place. Our chapel Students walking to chapelprograms vary widely, from guest speakers to musical groups to faculty telling their stories to students sharing their own experiences. Terry Swenson and Dilys Brooks, our campus chaplains, do a great job putting these programs together, sensing student needs and interests. The music committee, the video group and those who create the right atmosphere in the church are all an important part of this service.

Analyses of educational institutions across this country show that collective worship is an important part of maintaining a normative culture. On our campus, we seek to intentionally do this with a recognition of our reality as children of God, sharing this journey together, though coming from very diverse backgrounds. Our chapel is just one small part of this strategy. It is woven together with our academic programs where service learning and sensitivity to human need have moved from “extracurricular” to “curricular.” For if these events and activities are so important in developing character and the kind of professionals Loma Linda desires to produce, why are they not front and center in our curriculum? So we made them that way, using the term “Mission-focused Learning” as the purpose of our educational programs. And it is clear that our overt statements about this campus and its programs do not deter applicants, but rather attract them even more — over 11,000 last year. The world is searching today for substance, for faith and beliefs, for a sense of purpose and direction that is filled by our traditions.

The prophet Zechariah talked about a place like this when referring to Jerusalem several millennia ago. Through him, God called on Jerusalem’s leaders to “Administer true justice, show mercy and compassion to one another. Do not oppress the widow or the fatherless, the alien or the poor. In your hearts do not think evil of each other.” And God even called on Jerusalem to be the original Blue Zone®: “Once again men and women of ripe old age will sit in the streets of Jerusalem, each with cane in hand because of his age. The city streets will be filled with boys and girls playing there.” And because of this reputation, “Many peoples and the inhabitants of many cities will yet come, and the inhabitants of one city will go to another and say, ‘Let us go at once to entreat the Lord. I myself am going.’ … In those days ten men from all languages and nations will take firm hold of one Jew by the edge of his robe and say, ‘Let us go with you, because we have heard that God is with you.’”*

Looking up church aisle

Could it be that Loma Linda University Health is called, in some small way, to carry on this tradition? To demonstrate to the world the power of acceptance and compassion and healthy living and relationships? So on Wednesday mornings, you will see our students walking across campus, representing many Christian orientations, as well as Judaism, Islam, Hinduism and Buddhism, and yes, probably even an occasional atheist or agnostic, coming together to share a worship experience in the Loma Linda tradition. They will be exposed to music and ideas about Christian values, about service and compassion, about sacrifice and commitment. And those experiences, when queried about on our various surveys, are valued by all who truly seek personal development.

I saw a quote the other day from actor and writer Peter Ustinov that said, “Charity is tax-deductible. Compassion is time consuming.” I want our grads to understand the diversity of backgrounds and opinions in the world around them, and feel comfortable in their own beliefs. I want them to be filled with compassion for all the people who share this Earth with us. Whether our differences are inherited or learned, our God claims us all as His children, and we can do nothing less.

Cordially,

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health 

* Zechariah 7:9-10, 8:4-5, 20-21, 23. Blue Zone® is a registered trademark of Blue Zones, LLC, and refers to a place in the world where residents have greater longevity. The community of Loma Linda was designated a Blue Zone by Dan Buettner, author of “The Blue Zones: 9 Lessons for Living Longer from the People Who’ve Lived the Longest.”

Vision 2020: The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow

]]>
Thu, 09 Apr 2015 13:39:15 -0700
4264:21216 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- Navigating portion size]]> Courtney Beckwith Haas Most people can relate to trying to lose weight — those few (or more) extra pounds that have acquired residence on our midsections. We can also relate to the friend or relative that says, “Oh no. It’s not what you eat that matters; it is how much you’re eating that is making you gain weight.” While choosing healthy foods is also key, there is some merit behind the statement. 

Portion control is important. According to an article in the Loma Linda University Health health library, there has been a continuous growth in common serving sizes: “Twenty years ago, the traditional 3-inch bagel that had 140 calories is now 6 inches and contains 350 calories. A small serving of fast-food French fires that weighed in at 2.4 ounces with 210 calories has ballooned to 7 ounces with 610 calories.” 

And so on. 

Whether out to eat, cooking at home, or snacking in the office, we need to remember that there is likely a difference between the portion we choose to eat and the actual recommended serving size. Nutrition facts provided on labels are based on a particular serving size — not how much you are actually consuming.

Rather than trying to figure out how many ounces, cups or other tricky measurements of what you eat, try visualizing it with these guides:

 

Portion comparisons

1 serving of vegetables or fruit

Woman’s fist or baseball

About ½ cup fruit, or ½ cup of cooked rice or pasta

A half a baseball

1 serving of meat or poultry

Deck of cards or palm of a hand

1/4 cup of dried fruit or nuts

Golf ball or medium egg

One baked potato

A fist

1 and a half ounces of cheese

Four game dice

2 tablespoons of peanut butter

Ping pong ball

]]>
Thu, 09 Apr 2015 10:54:31 -0700
4264:21219 <![CDATA[Get rewarded for your commute]]> Courtney Beckwith Haas Everyone knows that Loma Linda University Health has a passion for giving back to the local and global communities, but this passion goes further. Within the organization, Loma Linda University Health gives back to employees through the Rideshare program.

Rideshare offers participants the opportunity to receive subsidies each month based on what transportation they take to work. Whether through vanpooling (participants sign up to ride with six or more individuals), taking the bus, biking, walking, or carpooling with two or more riders, each employee can be part of a bigger initiative to reduce traffic and decrease pollutants that are harmful to the environment and community members. Those who bike or walk also gain a healthier lifestyle.

Vanpooling offers a $50 subsidy per month per rider, and bus transit offers a $25 subsidy per month toward your bus pass. Biking offers $60 per quarter distributed through payroll. Walking provides $60 per quarter distributed through payroll, and carpooling offers 10 gallons of gasoline to each Rideshare member each month.

“Participating in our Rideshare programs helps reduce traffic congestion around our campus and reduces the amount of harmful toxins that are released into the environment,” Patricia Ibarra, employee transportation coordinator, says. “In addition, it also helps Loma Linda University Health meet the average vehicle ridership of 1.5 mandated by the South Coast Air Quality Management District.”

To learn more about the benefits of this program, please visit www.iecommuter.org and check out the attachment below.

To join the program, email rideshare@llu.edu or call 909-651-3033 or ext. 53033. Ask for Patricia Ibarra or Julie Mandy.

]]>
Thu, 09 Apr 2015 11:36:42 -0700
4264:21214 <![CDATA[Deadline extended for Wholeness Health Plan requirement]]> To remain in the Wholeness Health Plan, employees of Loma Linda University Health and their covered spouses must each create a My LLU Health account. Those who still need to do so have until an extended deadline of April 30 to complete the requirement or be moved to the base health plan. (This requirement does not yet apply to employees of Loma Linda University.)

Additionally, employees are encouraged to visit PeoplePortal and download a copy of their health risk assessment from the time they first enrolled in the Wholeness Health Plan, but this is no longer a requirement.

A My LLU Health account offers numerous benefits including the ability to view test results, request prescription refills, manage appointments and communicate with health care providers.

Sign up and check out these capabilities at mylluhealth.org. Once the account is created, it can also be accessed via the free MyChart mobile app, available in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.

Employees and their spouses who have never activated a My LLU Health account should have received a letter dated March 4, 2015, with a personalized activation code and instructions. The code expired after 30 days. Employees who still have not created their account will receive a second letter and activation code.

Those who believe they have already created a My LLU Health account but are unsure how to access it can visit mylluhealth.org and select “Forgot My LLU Health Username” or “Forgot Password.” A telephone contact for additional support is available on the site.

Those who already have a My LLU Health account and have not otherwise heard from the department of risk management don’t need to do anything.

This requirement does not apply to enrolled children or dependents, and it does not yet apply to LLU employees or their spouses.

For more information about health plan coverage, eligibility or this requirement, please call (909) 651-4010 or ext. 14010.

]]>
mylluhealth.org. Benefits include the ability to view test results, request prescription refills, manage appointments and communicate with health care providers. ]]> Thu, 09 Apr 2015 10:48:22 -0700
4264:21213 <![CDATA[With springtime comes compliance/HIPAA training]]> Each year, Loma Linda University Health workforce members must complete online compliance and HIPAA training. The training period for 2015 began April 1 and closes Oct. 31.

The training is available online through the Organization-Wide Learning (OWL) portal. 

All employees are encouraged to complete training as soon as possible.

Need an incentive? Departments (based on cost center) with a 100 percent completion rate by April 30, 2015, will be entered into a drawing for a treat.   

To access the training courses, employees should log on to the OWL portal at http://myllu.llu.edu/owl by using their email address and password. Then, register for the compliance required courses, which are listed under the “My Requirements” tab. Depending on the employee’s job position code, there may be up to three required courses.

After registering, the employee will then receive a confirmation email with a link to the online classroom (Moodle). At that point, the courses can also be accessed directly at https://ceonline.llu.edu.

Step-by-step instructions by entity are available on the compliance department VIP page.

The employee’s training status will be marked as complete after all required courses are taken and the code of conduct, found at the end of the compliance module, is electronically signed. It can take up to 24 hours for completion status to be reflected in OWL.

For more information, contact the compliance department at 909-558-6458 or ext. 66458.

]]>
Thu, 09 Apr 2015 10:47:02 -0700
4264:21120 <![CDATA[Next week's ramp closures]]> Please note the following construction closures advised by San Bernardino Associated Governments for the interchange improvement project at Interstate 10 and Anderson/Tippecanoe exits. Schedules may change due to weather, construction progress, emergencies or other unforeseen conditions. 

For the latest information, stay tuned to www.sanbag.ca.gov/projects/interchange_tippecanoe.html.

 

]]>
Thu, 02 Apr 2015 17:10:29 -0700
4264:21116 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- Name those words]]> Heather Reifsnyder Michael Mitchell, Lysenia Quijano and Lily Flores, come on down. You are the winners of last week’s trivia contest. Please email pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

These winners correctly identified Milton Murray as the employee of Loma Linda University Health who spent more than two decades advocating for the Post Office to release a stamp honoring philanthropy. His dream came true in 1998 with the “Giving & Sharing” stamp.

Milton Murray was Loma Linda University Health’s first-ever employee focused on public relations and development when he started here in 1949. He remained with the organization for about 12 years and built the PR department into an oiled machine of 18 full-time employees, including five stationed at the affiliated White Memorial Hospital in Los Angeles.

Murray was on the planning committee for the 50th anniversary of Loma Linda University Health, which took place in 1955. Murray’s research for the celebrations led him to found another new department at the organization to collect and preserve historical records. Today, known as the Heritage Research Center, it boasts an impressive collection of artifacts and documents related to the organization’s history, as well as the history of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

In preparation for the golden anniversary, the committee worked hard to select a theme phrase for the 50th year celebrations. What did they choose?

Email the correct answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, April 7, for the chance to become a random winner. One answer per person. 

]]>
Thu, 02 Apr 2015 16:52:12 -0700
4264:21113 <![CDATA[Oasis employee day of renewal is now open for registration]]> Courtney Beckwith Haas On Wednesday, May 13, Loma Linda University Health is once again holding the Oasis event, “a day of renewal for all employees.” 

This year it will take place at the California Citrus State Historic Park and will focus on “cultivating wholeness.”

Featuring keynote speakers Gerald Winslow, PhD; Shirani de Alwis-Chand, EdD; Danny Fontoura, MBA, and Charlene Wilson, MPH, CCP, the event is filled with back-to-back inspirational presentations all emphasizing the importance of wholeness in daily life. Terry Swenson, DMin, will facilitate times of personal reflection throughout the day. 

At the end of the event, it is projected that attendees will be able to demonstrate how living with purpose can impact one’s personal and professional life. Participants will also be able to describe at least three key principles of wholeness that will help to improve the way they work and function throughout their daily routine. 

“Oasis is the perfect opportunity for employees to hear four excellent speakers and reflect on their personal wholeness,” Kathy McMillan, MA, director of employee spiritual care and wholeness, said. “I believe people will be inspired by our newly defined themes of wholeness: Loved by God; Growing in health; Living with purpose in community.” 

Registration is only $25 and can now be completed via the OWL portal. In addition to the motivational presentations, the event includes a light breakfast and lunch. For those interested, Oasis also offers up to three CEU hours. 

To learn more and sign up for this event please click here.

Click below to download event flyer. 

]]>
Thu, 02 Apr 2015 16:23:54 -0700
4264:21107 <![CDATA[Deputy surgeon general advocates for veteran inclusion and shared health during Power of Inclusion]]> Briana Pastorino Loma Linda University Health’s 3rd annual Power of Inclusion Conference, “United We Stand,” held March 31 and April 1, focused on the valuable contributions veterans have made not only in service to our nation, but also in service to civilian organizations through the depth and breadth of talent they offer. 

Loma Linda University Health administrators, faculty, staff, students and community members came out to hear the various national speakers address unique issues affecting veterans and opportunities to increase their participation and inclusion in our workplaces.

The United States deputy surgeon general, Rear Admiral Boris Lushniak, MD, MPH, was the morning keynote speaker March 31. Speaking on inclusion in wellness, Lushniak gave an overview of what the Office of the Surgeon General has done over the last 100 years to keep the country healthy, speaking with a heavy emphasis on the campaign against tobacco use. 

In an effort to communicate these health messages to the population, Lushniak said all facets of society should be included. 

“Our objectives are only going to be achieved if we really engage our society at the community level,” he said. “It’s not attainable unless we understand each and every aspect of our society. The theme here is the power of inclusion — when we look at health and wellness, our message today is that we need to include all facets of society in that health and wellness message.” 

Lushniak believes it is imperative to incorporate veterans into civilian society. “With regard to creating an inclusive and diverse environment, veterans have an important contribution to make. From a health and wellness perspective, I also know that this is an underserved and vulnerable community in itself.”

Something society as a whole may need to do better, toward veterans and others, is show compassion — which happens to be one of the five core values of Loma Linda University Health.

“I think Loma Linda may be a different place,” Lushniak said, “but I think what we’ve not done in society in general is to be able to actually accept and stress the importance of compassion and caring for others. We have to be open to compassion, to caring and to love.”

No stranger to Loma Linda University Health and the health outreach of Seventh-day Adventist medical institutions, Lushniak visited Seventh-day Adventist Cooper Hospital in Monrovia, Liberia, earlier this year when he was in Western Africa to fight the Ebola outbreak.

The Seventh-day Adventist community is doing beautiful work out there,” he said. 

This was Lushniak’s first visit to Loma Linda University Health, and he admits he was pleased with the visit and his meeting with President Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH.

“It’s intriguing to meet the leaders here. I walk away with nothing but positive vibes,” he said after his presentation.

Following the morning session with Lushniak, the conference continued with a lunch session featuring best-selling author, actor, motivational speaker and wounded Army veteran J.R. Martinez. 

Known well for his season 13 win on “Dancing With the Stars,” Martinez shared his story of survival, strength and spirit. Even before he was injured by a roadside bomb in Afghanastan, Martinez, born in El Salvador, said he was no stranger to diversity growing up in Louisiana and Arkansas with a single mom. 

Martinez, who was 19 when the roadside bomb hit him, confessed he was in a dark place after learning how his injuries would permanently affect his body, but talking to other wounded veterans in the hospital helped lift his spirits. Now a motivational speaker, Martinez does not believe he or any other “disabled” veteran has a disability.

“We have an ability!” he exclaimed to a crowd of approximately 225 guests. “We just do things differently.”

The now 31-year-old encouraged the audience not to look at wounded veterans like they can’t bring something to the table. “It’s important to connect with diversity. We all have to help each other survive.”

Martinez concluded by saying we are all human and deserve the same opportunities and respect. “If we take a little time to listen to each other we can help save each other’s lives.”

Greg Crouse, 46, attended the luncheon and was able to closely relate with Martinez’s message. Crouse lost his left leg while he was serving in the U.S. Army in Germany when a drunk driver hit the vehicle he was in. Crouse is now a 2016 Paralympic hopeful in outrigger canoeing.

Crouse also was a panel participant during the afternoon session “Hiring Heroes: Discovering Their Strengths and Ways to Support Them.”

Other notable speakers and panel participants during Power of Inclusion included:

• Juana Bordas, president, Mestiza Leadership International

• Sue Hoppin, MA, expert on military spouses and families

• Lieutenant Commander Heidi Kraft, PhD, clinical psychologist and military combat stress specialist

• Susan R. Meisinger, SPHR, JD, author and former CEO of Society for Human Resource Management

• Anthony Odierno, MBA, retired United States Army First Lieutenant, Bronze Star and Purple Heart recipient

The two-day Power of Inclusion conference concluded with an international food festival on April 1 at Loma Linda University Drayson Center. Guests enjoyed fare representative of the many regions of the world, with over 30 delicious dishes to enjoy.

For additional information on Power of Inclusion and for photos, visit the event website, powerofinclusion.org.

]]>
Thu, 02 Apr 2015 15:25:10 -0700
4264:21104 <![CDATA[Administrative parking lot (Lot B) closes April 3]]> Nancy Yuen The landscape of Loma Linda University Health continues to change — construction is beginning on the new patient parking structure. The structure is being built at the corner of Barton Road and Campus Street, at the site of the administrative parking lot.

The administrative parking lot (Lot B) will close permanently tomorrow (April 3), at 3:00 p.m. Due to the closure, all staff who park in Lot B should park in the West Hall Parking Structure (outlined in green in the photo above).

Additionally, Frontage Road will be closed to through traffic and will be used by authorized vehicles only.

Please ensure that your Loma Linda University Health parking account is current to avoid citation. For questions regarding alternative parking, please contact parking and traffic services at 909-651-3025 or email Parking@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 02 Apr 2015 15:12:43 -0700
4264:21083 <![CDATA[United we stand ]]> Advancement films ]]> Meet some of the veterans who contribute to the rich tapestry of talent at Loma Linda University Health. Enjoy this video that was shown during the Power of Inclusion Conference.  

]]>
Thu, 02 Apr 2015 10:08:10 -0700
4264:21101 <![CDATA[Are you sending your pesticide form to the right place?]]> Heather Reifsnyder All employees of Loma Linda University Health are required to annually complete a form that indicates whether they use pesticides during the course of their jobs. This takes place during the annual BLUE Book employee training module, which all employees must complete each year by Dec. 31 (or as specifically designated by one’s department).

There are three versions of the pesticide form: one for employees, one for Medical Center volunteers and one for LLUMC – Murrieta volunteers. After filling out the form, it must be submitted to the correct place online while doing BLUE Book. The BLUE Book training module can be accessed at the Organization-Wide Learning (OWL) portal

Employees, to correctly submit the form, click on the link indicated with the green arrow in this graphic:

]]>
Thu, 02 Apr 2015 15:09:48 -0700
4264:21001 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week-- Stamped in time part II]]> Heather Reifsnyder Two figures face each other in an embrace, each with a hand outstretched to touch the other’s heart. The gesture symbolizes an act of generosity that is literally life-giving. 

This is the image that over 200 individuals saw when they gathered at Loma Linda University Medical Center on Aug. 5, 1998, to see a new U.S. postage stamp unveiled.

Last week’s trivia challenge was to identify what this postage stamp honored. The correct answer of organ and tissue donation was submitted by random winners Brooke Flowers, Jennifer Fisk and Heather Shepherd. Please email pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

LLU Medical Center was chosen as one of the key sites across the nation for the new stamp, valued at 32 cents, to be revealed. The selection of Loma Linda was due to the Medical Center’s long history of infant heart transplantation, which was pioneered here in the 1980s by Leonard Bailey, MD, distinguished professor of cardiovascular and thoracic surgery.

“Baby Moses” was present for the stamp unveiling. This was the name used for Eddie Anguiano, who in 1985 became the first infant to survive a heart transplant. Eddie returned to LLU Medical Center, the place of his life-saving surgery, in December 2014. Read the story about his visit here.

Bailey, his surgeon, said at the unveiling, “[This stamp] helps consecrate the act of transplantation as much as commemorate it, and it reminds each of us that we have an opportunity to serve our fellow man.”

Click here to learn how to become an organ and tissue donor in the state of California.

Another new postage stamp unveiled in 1998 also had a connection to Loma Linda University Health.

This “Giving & Sharing” stamp honored the importance of philanthropy, and it was printed after years of advocacy for it by a person who started his career at Loma Linda University and went on to become highly distinguished in the field of fundraising. Who was this person?

Email the answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, March 31, for the chance to be a random winner. 

]]>
Thu, 26 Mar 2015 12:45:26 -0700
4264:20999 <![CDATA['Two Hearts of Love']]> Advancement films ]]> Sabrina and Vinny share more than most siblings. Both had lifesaving heart surgeries and treatment at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital. Watch their story featured at the 2015 Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital Foundation Gala.

]]>
Thu, 26 Mar 2015 12:43:35 -0700
4264:21007 <![CDATA[Next week: spring chapels begin]]> Heather Reifsnyder Each Wednesday from 11–11:50 a.m., Loma Linda University offers a chapel program open to anyone from the family of Loma Linda University Health. Called University@Worship, the chapel services take place at Loma Linda University Church.

The lineup for the spring quarter chapels is now available. In addition to attending in person, people can view the services live online at llu.edu/uw1.

The spring quarter chapel schedule will be kicked off April 1 with Paul S. Anderson speaking on the topic “United We Stand.”

Week two will be Week of Renewal, April 6–10, and it will feature a daily service at 11 a.m. centered around the topic “The Life.”

            April 6: Dilys Brooks
            April 7: Terry Swenson
            April 8: Sam Leonar
            April 9: Alex Royes
            April 10: Rochelle Webster

The April 15 service will feature the New Song choir from California Baptist University.

The schedule for the remainder of spring quarter is as follows.

April 22: Jon Ciccarelli, “How-to of Prayer”
April 29: Todd Rosspencer, “Experiential Prayer”
May 6: “Our Voices”
May 13: School awards chapel
May 20: Terry Swenson and Dilys Brooks, “Rejoicing in the Lord”

]]>
Thu, 26 Mar 2015 12:51:20 -0700
4264:21003 <![CDATA[Deadline extended to share your opinions]]> In an effort to hear from 100 percent of employees at Loma Linda University Health, administration has extended the deadline to fill out the employee engagement survey. Please do so by 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, March 29.

As of this morning, 77 percent of employees have filled out the survey, but 100 percent is the goal. Each person’s opinion is important.

The survey is an annual opportunity for employees to share anonymous feedback about their work environment. It should take less than 10 minutes to complete.

Each employee should have received an invitation and personalized access code for the survey. Any employee who did not receive an access code should contact Gallup client support at 800-788-9987 by 5:00 p.m. today or between 5:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. on Friday, March 27.

The survey can be completed online or via phone at 866-288-8920.

For more information about the survey, ask your direct supervisor.

]]>
Thu, 26 Mar 2015 12:47:24 -0700
4264:21005 <![CDATA[New vice president comes on board]]> Jiggs Gallagher Mel Eisele, MBA, is the newly appointed Loma Linda University Health vice president of the revenue cycle, a financial officer charged with overseeing and changing various processes that are vital to the organization’s operations.

The new vice president comes from a financial position at Adventist Healthcare, a not-for-profit organization in Rockville, Maryland, which supervises three hospitals (Shady Grove Adventist and Washington Adventist in the Maryland suburbs of Washington, DC; and Hackettstown Regional Medical Center in New Jersey) and two separate institutes (for rehabilitation and behavioral medicine) near the Shady Grove facility.

The son of a minister, Eisele spent his childhood growing up in Missouri, Kentucky and Tennessee. He is a 1993 graduate of Southern Adventist University near Chattanooga, Tennessee (bachelor’s degree in business administration) and holds an MBA from Webber International University in Babson Park, Florida. He spent seven years at Walker Memorial Medical Center (now Florida Hospital Heartland Medical Center) in Sebring, Florida.

“I’m very excited to join the financial team at Loma Linda University Health,” Eisele says. “This is a tremendous opportunity to work with good people and have a real impact on this community and worldwide." 

He outlined several challenges he will work on in coming months. “One big issue is stabilizing the billing operations at the Children’s Hospital, dealing with changes brought on by the separate licensure that went into effect in November 2014. 

“Another issue is implementation of ICD10, a new coding system imposed by the federal government, with an Oct. 1 launch,” he continues. “ICD stands for International Classification of Diseases. This system will affect almost everyone in Loma Linda University Health, raising the number of classifications from about 7,000 to more than 80,000. We must have special training and roll-outs to bring our people up to speed, as well as updating IT systems.”

Eisele’s office is located in the LLUAHSC 101 Redlands Boulevard facility. His wife, Juli, and 13-year-old daughter, Megan, will move to California from Maryland at the end of the current school year.

]]>
Thu, 26 Mar 2015 12:49:19 -0700
4264:20937 <![CDATA[Ramp closures next week]]> Interstate ramp closures are part of next week’s construction schedule for the interchange improvement project at I-10 and Anderson/Tippecanoe. 

Westbound I-10 on-ramp closed
March 22 – 27 nightly, 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.

Westbound 1-10 off-ramp closed
March 22 – 27 nightly, 10 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. 

These closures are anticipated but subject to change due to weather, construction progress, emergency situations or other unforeseen conditions.

For the latest information, stay tuned to www.sanbag.ca.gov/projects/interchange_tippecanoe.html.

Project helpline: 800-875-4990

]]>
Thu, 19 Mar 2015 12:28:27 -0700
4264:20935 <![CDATA[Emergency drill next week]]> Briana Pastorino In an effort to better prepare the campus for an actual emergency, Loma Linda University Health’s department of environmental health & safety is hosting its quarterly disaster drill on campus on Thursday, March 26.

The drill will practice a code red (fire) incident that escalates. 

It will begin around 9:00 a.m with a simulated fire scenario involving LLU Children’s Hospital on units 5800 and 4700. A code gray will initially be called after an individual is seen wandering in and out of patient areas.

Said individual will pretend to set a fire on unit 5800 and 4700 and flee the scene. The activation of the fire alarm system will occur requiring the unconditional response of on-duty personnel.  The suspect will be pursued on foot by campus security and law enforcement through various areas of campus.

The drill will finish around noon.

During the drill, the hospital incident command center will be activated. Campuswide communication will be sent out using the emergency notification system, Send Word Now. Communication will be sent to all students and staff throughout the drill to LLU emails, pagers and cell phones by way of text message.

Students and staff members of Loma Linda University Health will receive messaging in the manner they selected in the personal information section of Performance Manager. You cannot opt out of these messages. In the event of an actual emergency, it is imperative that the incident command center is able to communicate updates to everyone as necessary.

“Staff and students are reminded that an actual emergency can happen at any given time,” says Brett McPherson, director, environmental health & safety. “Do you know your department protocols? Do you have an emergency preparedness plan at home as well?  These campus drills should remind staff and students to test their level of knowledge and preparation in regard to any type of disaster, be it a fire, earthquake, active shooter, etc.”

Although this drill is heavily focused on the Medical Center side of the organization, all Loma Linda University Health entities are encouraged to participate at some level. If you or your department wishes to participate in the drill, please contact environmental health and safety at 909-651-4019.

]]>
Thu, 19 Mar 2015 12:03:03 -0700
4264:20897 <![CDATA[Unprecedented gifts inspired by golden flair of Children's Hospital Foundation Gala ]]> Briana Pastorino Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital dazzled guests with golden flair, glam and glitz March 12 at the 22nd Annual Foundation Gala, “Rhapsody in Gold,” presented by Hard Rock Hotel Palm Springs. Most importantly, an unprecedented $1.1 million was raised for Loma Linda University Health’s Vision 2020 campaign and the construction of a new Children’s Hospital tower.

“Our community made history tonight at ‘Rhapsody in Gold,’” said Jillian Payne, executive director, Children’s Hospital Foundation. “The outstanding support of our sponsors and guests will help Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital create a better tomorrow for our patients and their families.”

This year’s sold-out event welcomed over 1,000 guests and garnered the highest number of sponsors — 83 individual and corporate — in the event’s 22-year history. In addition to Hard Rock Hotel Palm Springs’ presenting sponsorship, McCarthy Building Companies, NBBJ and Jtec Healthcare Construction Management came together for the Shirley N. Pettis Award sponsorship. The three companies represent the campus transformation team responsible for the construction of the new Children’s Hospital tower, which is expected to break ground in spring 2016. 

Loma Linda University Medical Center CEO Kerry Heinrich, JD, also addressed guests during the evening, acknowledging the dedication to providing the best of care to the children who need it.

“Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital provides the latest research, the best facilities and the most compassionate whole person care in the region,” he said.

Events of the evening

A big surprise of the night was a last-minute matching donation of $250,000, brought in from the Big Hearts for Little Hearts Loma Linda Guild. It was the largest donation of the evening. During the “Fund-a-Vision” portion of the evening, guests were invited to donate an amount of their choosing toward Vision 2020. The Loma Linda Guild promised to match every dollar up to $250,000.

During the recognition portion of the evening, former LLU Children’s Hospital administrator Zareh Sarrafian, MBA, was honored with the Gatsby Award for his contributions benefiting children in the community and beyond. He was also presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award for outstanding dedication and a lifetime of distinguished service to children. Through both personal and professional service, Sarrafian has demonstrated the desire, motivation and the devotion to improve the lives of children.

Sarrafian, who is currently CEO for Riverside County Regional Medical Center, humbly accepted the award and said, “It is I who have been blessed to serve God in this institution.”

The Children’s Hospital Foundation also honored Tony and Sandy Cappelli of Steven’s Hope for Children with the Hometown Hero Award and bestowed Riverside Community Health Foundation with the Shirley N. Pettis Award. 

One patient family was also recognized during the event — the Rubino family. After Bethany and Sean Rubino’s son, Vinny, was successfully treated at LLU Children’s Hospital as a newborn for a severe heart defect, they decided to adopt Sabrina, an orphan from China, three years later. Sabrina also had a heart defect and would need specialized care. Both underwent challenging heart surgeries as infants. Now, Vinny, 5, and Sabrina, 3, are both happy, vibrant children and are doing well.

“Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital is like heaven on earth,” Bethany said in a video shown during the gala. “They gave us a family.” 

Much of the funds raised came from the live auction portion of the evening. The big seller was a Bandon Dunes golf trip that included traveling by private jet to a two-night, 36-hole golf experience at the Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, which sold for $16,000 and was generously donated by David S. Layton. Other items garnering high bids were the Kenya Safari Experience, selling for $9,000, and a suite at Staples Center for a Clippers game, which sold for $7,500.

In addition to the check presentation, the roaring twenties event, emceed by K-FROG’s Heather Froglear and NBC4’s Tony Shin, culminated with a glamorous chandelier aerialist performance and a confetti blast leaving guests full of positivity and anticipation, reflective of the promising future ahead for Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital and Vision 2020.

 

]]>
Wed, 18 Mar 2015 16:43:29 -0700
4264:20905 <![CDATA[Gala in 38 seconds]]> Advancement films ]]> This time-lapsed video shows 10 hours of setup, festivities and takedown for last week’s Children’s Hospital Foundation Gala.

]]>
Wed, 18 Mar 2015 17:30:36 -0700
4264:20907 <![CDATA[Alumni celebrate the 83rd Annual Postgraduate Convention]]> Susan Onuma Hundreds of Loma Linda University School of Medicine alumni and friends gathered at venues across the campus of Loma Linda University Health for the 83rd Annual Postgraduate Convention March 6–9. 

Sponsored by the alumni association of the School of Medicine, the convention was designed to diminish the gap between evidence-based medicine and practice.

The conference boasted a number of exemplary speakers, including R. Shaw Martin, vice president for advocacy and practice enhancement, American Academy of Family Physicians; Christopher B.D. Levy, MD, senior research fellow and professor, Nuffield department of orthopedics at the University of Oxford, Great Britain; and Richard Thorp, MD, immediate past president of the California Medical Association, to name a few.  

The opening session keynote address was offered by Sigve K. Tonstad, MD, PhD, Loma Linda University School of Religion, who spoke about “Our Ministry of Healing: Three Elements Certain to Endure.” Danielle Ofri, MD, PhD, associate professor of medicine at New York University School of Medicine, spoke on “The Amygdala and the Stethoscope: How Emotions Affect the Practice of Medicine.” 

The weekend was dotted with a number of opportunities for workshop and seminar participation, as well as fellowship and worship. The Loma Linda University School of Medicine classes of 1955, 1960, 1965, 1970 1975, 1980, 1985, 1990, 1995, 2000 and 2005 were welcomed and honored.

On March 9, the session opened with a new lecture format called the Physician Vitality Conference. 

A scientific poster session was held at various times throughout the conference in which current basic science and clinical research conducted by students, residents and faculty was displayed and presented. Duane Baldwin, MD, head of the scientific poster session, said, “We had approximately 80 poster submissions this year, all of which represented the exciting, compelling research that is being done at this institution. It was so inspiring to see this.”

Winners of the 83rd Annual Postgraduate Convention scientific poster sessions were announced as:

• Overall Winner: David Tryon, department of urology

Title: Effect Of Renal Vascular Clamp Type And Position Upon Renal Artery Leak Point Pressure: A Bench Top Study

• Resident Winner: Priya O. Kalyan-Masih, department of physiology

Title: Consumption Of A High-Fat Diet During Adolescence Impairs Sensorimotor Gating In Adult Rats

• Medical Student Winner: Erica Couzens, department of endocrinology

Title: HDL-Mediated Enos Activation Falls Before The Onset Of T2DM In Obese Non-Human Primates

]]>
Thu, 19 Mar 2015 09:37:18 -0700
4264:20912 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week-- Stamped in time]]> Heather Reifsnyder The Campus Hill Church sits atop the beautiful hill from which Loma Linda takes its name. Both this congregation and the Loma Linda University Church are descendants of the first church on campus, called the Loma Linda Seventh-day Adventist Church, which was started in 1906.

Last week’s trivia post noted that the current Campus Hill Church building was dedicated on New Year’s Day of a particular year, the challenge being to name that year.

Cheryl Kim, Erin Acosta and Rachel E. Gonzalez are the three random winners chosen from those who correctly answered 1938. Email pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

Spring ahead 60 years. It is 1998, the month of August. Loma Linda University Medical Center is one of just a few sites in Southern California where a new postage stamp, valued at 32 cents, is unveiled. What did the new stamp honor?

Email the answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, March 24, for the chance to become a random winner. One answer per person. 

]]>
Thu, 19 Mar 2015 09:42:42 -0700
4264:20928 <![CDATA[Summertime service opportunities are fast approaching ]]> Courtney Beckwith Haas Summertime is fast approaching and Loma Linda University’s Students for International Mission Service (SIMS) has several exciting trips going out this year.

These trips allow for students to actively participate in global mission service while attending Loma Linda University. By providing humanitarian service to communities throughout the world, SIMS’ team trips enable students to develop cultural competency in an international setting by exposing them to health care systems and delivery in countries where resources and medical supplies are extremely limited.

Trips available this summer: 

Malawi

June 17- July 2, 2015

SIMS is excited to be returning to Malamulo Adventist Hospital in Malawi. This site serves as a Loma Linda University international field station, and it is one of the oldest Seventh-day Adventist mission hospitals, celebrating its centennial anniversary this year. While participating in this trip, students will have the opportunity to contribute to long-term development of the community by visiting clinics, holding health fairs, leading out in vacation Bible school and more.

Peru

June 20- July 3, 2015

This summer features the first trip that SIMS has ever taken to Peru. Join the team as SIMS collaborates with ADRA Peru to hold health camps, nutrition workshops, emergency response training, vacation Bible school and so much more.

Brazil

August 13-26, 2015

On this trip, SIMS will partner with Social Action Volunteers of the Amazon (ASVAM), a non-profit that will facilitate connecting with local Brazilians while reconstructing a church building that was built in 1985. In addition to the construction renovation, trip participants will help in leading vacation Bible school, providing health fairs and leading worship in the local villages.

To learn more about how you can be a part of SIMS and have the experience of a lifetime, visit lluglobal.com/SIMS.

]]>
Thu, 19 Mar 2015 11:17:20 -0700
4264:20930 <![CDATA[ Living Whole Wellness Program, Say N.O.W., offers abundant ways to 'Live It']]> Caitlin McKee Do you feel in control of your health? Finding support through programs and partnering with others who have similar goals can lead to increased accountability and motivation to “Live It.”

Loma Linda University Health is dedicated to employee wellness. The Living Whole Wellness Program provides innovative resources and programs to help employees take care of themselves and gives them the opportunity to improve their lifestyle. The concept of “Living Whole” is a journey and an active process that we are excited to share with you.

Offered through the Living Whole Wellness Program, Say N.O.W, provides weight management options with the guidance of a registered dietitian that works with participants on an individual level. In addition, we partner with weight management experts across campus to offer classes that provide practical tips and real-life skills that emphasize nutrition, physical activity, accountability and behavior modification in a supportive, guilt-free environment.

Lifestyle changes can be difficult, however, attaining better health can be one of the most exciting journeys you will ever take. Today is a great day to start! Contact The Living Whole Wellness Program for more information on how to get started.

]]>
Thu, 19 Mar 2015 11:35:45 -0700
4264:20851 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- From the pulpit]]> Heather Reifsnyder Thousands and thousands of members call their spiritual home one or the other of two churches on the campus of Loma Linda University Health. But the two large congregations started out as one in the year 1906 with just 16 charter members. 

Called the Loma Linda Seventh-day Adventist Church, it first met in the parlor of original hotel-turned-sanitarium and then in a log assembly building before getting its own dedicated structure in 1910. They called it the Chapel. Fan-shaped, dark green on the outside and located on the hilltop, it was later torn down in 1938.

Last week’s trivia challenge was to identify what artifact from the Chapel can still be seen today on display in the Loma Linda University Heritage Research Center.

Correctly answering the Chapel’s solid pine pulpit are random winners Michael Olivarez, Marguerite Lauderback and PinkyJean Castillo. Please email pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

Ellen White, an important early leader of the Adventist Church and a founder of Loma Linda University Health, spoke from this pulpit in 1911 at the age of 83. Many other fixtures of the Chapel, such as windows and doors, were incorporated into local homes.

In 1928, 240 members of the Loma Linda Seventh-day Adventist Church split off to form the Loma Linda College Church. Joined by 44 other community members, the congregation they formed is today’s Loma Linda University Church.

This left 680 members who continued to meet in the Chapel on the hill. Space continued to be a problem, so the congregants later built the current structure on the hill, now know as the Campus Hill Church.

On New Year’s Day of ____, people gathered from all over Southern California to inaugurate the new building. What year was that? Email the answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, March 17, for the chance to become a random winner. One answer per person.

]]>
Thu, 12 Mar 2015 13:41:32 -0700
4264:20831 <![CDATA[Phase II of construction begins for Anderson Street/I-10 Project]]> Courtney Beckwith Haas The I-10/Tippecanoe Avenue Interchange Improvement Project entered phase II of construction in February. Stay tuned to News of the Week for updates on how the project may affect employees and visitors driving to Loma Linda University Health.

The San Bernardino Associated Governments and its partner agencies have designed major improvements to traffic flow at Interstate 10 and Tippecanoe Avenue/Anderson Street in San Bernardino and Loma Linda.

This phase of the project has produced several scheduled road closures. The next upcoming closure is today, March 12 from 10 p.m. throughout the evening and into the early morning at 5 a.m. Those interested in receiving notifications of construction alerts and road closures can sign up here.

“Phase II of this major improvement at I-10 and Tippecanoe/Anderson Street represents the home stretch for the project,” says Timothy Watkins, chief of legislative and public affairs at San Bernardino Associated Governments. 

“By this time next year, commuters to and from San Bernardino and Loma Linda will see an overall improvement to the operation of both local streets and freeway,” he adds. “Creating a new westbound loop ramp to I-10 and eliminating the need for northbound traffic to turn left to enter the freeway will result in enhanced safety to motorists, better efficiency of traffic flow, and less delay from fewer signals in one of the busiest interchanges east of Interstate 215.” 

The project began in 2014 and is being completed in two phases. It was initiated with the expectation of improving access to many of the significant destinations in the surrounding area, including Loma Linda University Health. The goal is also to relieve traffic congestion, reduce the impact to local property owners and residents, and build a sound project that is fiscally responsible.

To learn more about this project and others in the San Bernardino and Loma Linda communities, be sure to visit SANBAG.ca.gov.

 

]]>
Thu, 12 Mar 2015 10:27:21 -0700
4264:20832 <![CDATA[The 'Golden Twenties' get social]]> Courtney Beckwith Haas The day has arrived. The Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital Gala, “Rhapsody in Gold,” is finally upon us, and attendees are gearing up in their fun and fashionable Golden Twenties attire for the night of a lifetime.

Tickets for this event are sold out, but this year LLU Children’s Hospital would like for you to be a part of this event nonetheless. Those in attendance are asked to share their favorite photos with the world. Use every form of social media to ensure the Gala’s roaring success and allow everyone to see it.

Be sure to use the hashtag #LLUCHGala. In doing so, your photo may be featured on the Children’s Hospital social media channel and will allow people to follow the Gala more easily when they search using #LLUCHGala.

For those in attendance, be sure to register and arrive early so that you can participate in the live silent auction that will begin at 5:30 p.m. All proceeds go the Children’s Hospital Foundation. Come and enjoy as we take a trip back to the twenties at the 22nd Annual Foundation Gala. 

]]>
Thu, 12 Mar 2015 10:28:50 -0700
4264:20852 <![CDATA[A successful conclusion to 'Healthy People in Healthy Communities' ]]> Calvin Naito Loma Linda University Health hosted its 42nd annual “Healthy People in Healthy Communities” conference March 9-11, which challenged participants to “actively live your best life” — the event’s theme — and featured experts who revealed the latest findings on whole health, the paths to and benefits of greater happiness, the role of the physical environment on health, and healthy aging.

Nearly 400 people attended the three-day conference, which devoted a day each to the role of technology, exercise as medicine and happiness.

There were morning group exercise classes prior to the sessions, a health expo mid-day featuring over 30 exhibitors and healthy cooking demos, free health screenings, book author signings, a speakers mix-and-mingle reception and an evening symposium on the connection between faith and health. The conference was open to the public, and attendees were able to earn continuing education credits.

Present at the event were inspiring individuals who have overcome major health issues and taken action to transform their lives. Short videos on four individuals were shown at the conference, including one on Tom Zapara, a 91-year-old philanthropist and retired businessman with diabetes who is now in control of his condition. 

Speakers included Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH, president, Loma Linda University Health; Robert Sallis, MD, chair of the Exercise is Medicine Advisory Board; Nick Buettner, community and corporate program director, Blue Zones, LLC; Lee S. Berk, DrPH, associate professor, School of Allied Health Professions, Loma Linda University Health; Karyn Buxman, MS, neuro-humorist; Sam Soret, PhD, associate dean for research and executive director, Center for Community Resilience, School of Public Health, Loma Linda University Health; plus many other distinguished experts.

A panel titled “State of the Inland Empire: Health Care & Prevention” gave the public health picture of the region, in which roughly one in four residents receive care through Medi-Cal, the state’s insurance program for lower-income individuals.

Hart spoke passionately about Loma Linda University Health’s commitment to whole health and to serving all people in the region regardless of their income level. He talked about his institution’s $68-million San Bernardino campus project, which will provide clinical services and health care classes. 

Hart’s comments about how the project, currently under construction, will provide “more education, jobs and health care services” to an area in dire need brought strong applause from conference attendees. 

One enthusiastic attendee was Bonnie Johnson, a retired publications editor, who has regularly come to the annual conference for decades. Johnson, who is in her 70s, agreed that some of the main keys to longevity are good nutrition and physical activity, repeating the line that “being sedentary is the new smoking.” She said the annual event is always informative and inspiring to individuals and health care professionals, who can, in turn, “spread the health message to others.”

More event information can be found on the conference’s website: www.HealthyPeopleConference.org

]]>
Thu, 12 Mar 2015 13:45:16 -0700
4264:20842 <![CDATA[Loma Linda physician awarded March of Dimes grant ]]> Briana Pastorino The March of Dimes California Chapter has announced that Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital pediatric cardiologist Donna Goff, MD, MS, has been awarded a community service grant titled “Improving the Prenatal Detection Rate of Complex Congenital Heart Disease in the Southern Inland Counties Regional Perinatal Program Region.”

This grant will use existing databases combined with geographic information systems (GIS) to identify regions with lower rates of prenatal diagnosis of congenital heart defects (CHD). The data will then be used to understand the barriers to prenatal diagnosis and provide outreach to improve the prenatal diagnosis rate.

According to Goff, “The prenatal detection rate of congenital heart defects is around 25 percent in the Inland Empire compared to 49 percent nationally, which ultimately leads to delayed treatment and worse outcomes for these babies.

“As the region’s only provider of pediatric cardiology services, it is our mission to serve this population and work collaboratively with obstetricians, radiologists and family practice physicians in the region to improve screening for congenital heart defects,” she continues.

“Dramatically improving the congenital heart defect diagnosis rate will depend upon partnering with community physicians in a way that was previously unprecedented.”

Saving babies like Marcus

Goff is one of six recipients of this multi-year community service grants program offered by the California Chapter of the March of Dimes. The grant program will provide nearly three quarters of a million dollars through 2018, and $250,000 of that will be distributed in the first year of this program, with the remainder of funds contingent upon demonstrated programmatic successes each year through 2018.

Funds from the March of Dimes will allow Goff and her colleagues at Loma Linda University International Heart Institute and Perinatal Institute to continue to improve early detection of congenital heart defects in fetuses, leading to better results for babies such as Marcus Volpe, who was born with a condition called d-transposition of the great arteries.

Since Marcus’ congenital heart defect was detected early on in pregnancy, Goff and her team were able to monitor the fetus and provide specialized prenatal care.

“We were fortunate that our son’s condition was detected early,” says Erica Volpe. “We were scared at first, but we had time to establish a game plan. Dr. Goff explained everything to us and put us at ease as much as she could.”

Goff diagnosed Marcus’ condition at 21 weeks of gestation, which allowed regular fetal echocardiograms throughout Volpe’s pregnancy to closely monitor him and provide time to coordinate his postnatal care with the multidisciplinary team including maternal fetal medicine, neonatology and pediatric cardiac surgery to ensure a safe and successful delivery with specialized care in the LLU Children’s Hospital neonatal intensive care unit after birth.

Marcus was born April 14, 2014. At 5 days old, he was strong enough to have the surgery that would repair his heart, which was performed by renowned cardiothoracic surgeon Leonard Bailey, MD, surgeon in chief at Children’s Hospital.

At 9 days old, Marcus was able to go home with his family in Riverside. Now 10 months old, Marcus is thriving, doing everything a baby his age should be doing.

“Everyone is amazed at how well he is doing,” Volpe boasts of her son. “You would never know he has been through what he’s been through.”

Had Marcus’ condition gone undetected, it’s uncertain if the outcome would have been the same, but Volpe and her family feel lucky and are thankful Goff detected Marcus’ heart defect when she did.

“Dr. Goff is amazing,” says Volpe. “She wants the best for these heart warriors no matter what. It’s no surprise that she has earned a grant from the March of Dimes.”

A competitive award

Goff and the other five grantees were selected from more than 40 concept papers by the March of Dimes state program services committee, which is made up of leading medical and public health professionals representing different regions in California. The projects are receiving funds in order to increase and enhance prenatal care, to provide pre- and inter-conception efforts, as well as to improve screening and diagnosis of heart birth defects. Programs target diverse, underserved female populations, including those women who are incarcerated, as well as the Latina, Pacific Islander and African-American communities.

“These grants are launching new programs or expanding existing ones with the funds provided by March of Dimes,” says March of Dimes state program services committee chair Dr. James Byrne, chair of the obstetrics and gynecology department at Santa Clara Valley Medical Center. “Many initiatives would not move forward without this funding. Community grant recipients provide great beta tests, which lay the groundwork to scale future efforts.” 

]]>
Thu, 12 Mar 2015 11:15:25 -0700
4264:20833 <![CDATA[Pediatric ICU presented with proclamation from county]]> Briana Pastorino San Bernardino County Supervisor James C. Ramos presented Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) with a proclamation for its 25 years of service to the local community on Feb. 17.

Ramos attributed much of the hospital’s success to the fact that it stands by its mission “to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ.”

“Loma Linda is leading the way,” Ramos said. “Their healing ministry can not be overlooked in any way because it truly is a ministry that is bestowed here by the staff.”

Ramos read the proclamation to an intimate audience of PICU doctors and staff, as well as hospital administration, which highlighted the 25 years of contributions to the well-being of the children in the community.

Shamel Abd-Allah, MD, chief, pediatric critical care of LLU Children’s Hospital, accepted the award on behalf of the PICU, saying he and the entire PICU team are continuing the legacy of the founding physicians, Ronald Perkins, MD, and Daved Van Stralen, MD. Both doctors still serve as pediatric physicians within the organization today.

Prior to the presentation, Abd-Allah, who has been a part of the PICU team since 1990, said he hopes the unit will continue to grow with the community it serves. “We do everything we can to save the kids we serve,” Abd-Allah said. “We see the worst of the worst, and we wouldn’t be able to do what we do if it wasn’t for the effort of the whole team — not just the doctors and nurses, but everyone on the unit.”

Kerry Heinrich, CEO, Loma Linda University Medical Center, attended the event and emphasized that it was an honor to be part of the celebration.

“We are so grateful to our staff,” Heinrich said, “but we are most grateful for what we can do for our patients. That’s why we are here.”

Roger Hadley, MD, dean, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, was also present, saying, “I’m very proud of the service the pediatric intensive care unit has provided to the community. It’s part of our culture to do this, and it’s a privilege to be of service to our kids.”

The PICU at Children’s Hospital originated as a 12-bed unit with only two attending physicians in the main Medical Center. In 1989 the unit expanded to a 25-bed unit and has grown to a team of 11 attending physicians, six fellows and several highly trained nurses and staff to oversee all that is involved in treating the patients on the unit, such as 10-year-old Alexsandra Alcala, from Moreno Valley, who attended the presentation.

Alexsandra was being treated in the pediatric intensive care unit after being transported from another hospital just a few days prior. Her father, Gerardo Alcala, was exceedingly thankful for the care his daughter had been receiving at the hospital. 

Since opening, over 30,000 of the most severely ill and injured children have been treated in the PICU. The PICU is dedicated exclusively to the specialized medical and surgical needs of critically ill children from birth through adolescence. Access to specialized intensive care is often the difference between life and death for a critically ill child, and the PICU at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital has provided children with advanced medical treatment when they have needed it most, treating, on average, 100 kids each month.

]]>
Thu, 12 Mar 2015 10:30:23 -0700
4264:20829 <![CDATA[Vegetarian diets linked to lower risk of colorectal cancers]]> Calvin Naito Researchers at Loma Linda University Health have found that eating a vegetarian diet was associated with a lower risk of colorectal cancers compared with non-vegetarians in a study of Seventh-day Adventist men and women. The findings are described in an article published online by the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) Internal Medicine. The study is part of Loma Linda University Health’s ongoing Adventist Health Study-2, which began in 2002.

Colorectal cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death in the United States. The report notes that although great attention has been paid to screening, primary prevention through lowering risk factors remains an important objective. Dietary factors have been identified as a modifiable risk factor for colorectal cancer, including red meat, which is linked to increased risk, and food rich in dietary fiber, which is linked to reduced risk.

Among 77,659 study participants, lead author Michael J. Orlich, MD, PhD, and coauthors identified 380 cases of colon cancer and 110 cases of rectal cancer. Compared with non-vegetarians, vegetarians had a 22 percent lower risk for all colorectal cancers, 19 percent lower risk for colon cancer and 29 percent lower risk for rectal cancer. Compared with non-vegetarians, vegans had a 16 percent lower risk of colorectal cancer; lacto-ovo vegetarians (eat milk and eggs) had an 18 percent less risk; pesco-vegetarians (eat fish) had a 43 percent less risk; and semi-vegetarians (eat some meat) had an 8 percent less risk, according to the study results.

Study implications

This is the first report to come out of Loma Linda University Health’s ongoing Adventist Health Study-2 investigation that links diets to a specific form of cancer.

“If such associations are causal, they may be important for primary prevention of colorectal cancers,” Orlich says. “Prior studies have linked a vegetarian diet with the potential reduced risk of obesity, hypertension, diabetes and mortality.” 

Orlich adds, “The evidence in this online JAMA Internal Medicine article that vegetarian diets similar to those of our study participants may be associated with a reduced risk of colorectal cancer should also be considered carefully in making dietary choices and in giving dietary guidance.”

The Wall Street Journal covered these findings this week in this video.

NIH-funded study making a difference

The findings are part of Loma Linda University Health’s overarching Adventist Health Studies, which started in 1958 and is one of the world’s longest-running set of research studies on whole health, aging and longevity. This link provides more information on the studies: http://www.AdventistHealthStudy.org

CNN’s chief medical correspondent, Dr. Sanjay Gupta, recently cited Loma Linda University Health’s Adventist Health Studies on his “Vital Signs with Dr. Sanjay Gupta” show that focused on healthy aging and greater longevity. It aired in February on the CNN International channel and can be viewed online at http://edition.cnn.com/specials/health/vital-signs. The program is broken into three convenient clips: “The art of aging,” “The secrets of centenarians” and “The principles of living longer.”

Loma Linda University Health’s Adventist Health Study-2 started with funding from the National Cancer Institute (which is part of the National Institutes of Health). In 2011, the Adventist Health Study-2 was awarded a $5.5 million five-year grant from the National Cancer Institute to continue the study.

“We are climbing the stairway to greater knowledge and insights. This online JAMA Internal Medicine report takes us another step upward. More Adventist Health Study-2 reports will be published in the months ahead,” says Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health. “The Loma Linda University Health team continues to research issues that aim to make a difference in people’s lives. We continue our commitment to lead people toward greater wholeness — an integrated health lifestyle that includes mind, body and spirit.”

]]>
Thu, 12 Mar 2015 10:14:02 -0700
4264:20840 <![CDATA[New senior VP appointed for Medical Center]]> Jiggs Gallagher Trevor Wright, MHA, was recently name senior vice president/administrator of Loma Linda University Medical Center adult services. He will be responsible for the day-to-day operations for the adult medical center. He began his position March 9.

Wright comes from Shawnee Mission Medical Center, where he served with distinction for the past four years as senior vice president and chief operating officer. He has extensive hospital operational experience and was also a consultant with The Studer Group.

His other administrative positions were at Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center in Torrance, California (2008-2011); Paradise Valley Hospital, National City, California (2004-2006); Ukiah Valley Medical Center, Ukiah, California (2001-2004); RDB Companies, Cleburne, Texas (1997-2001); Huguley Memorial Medical Center, Fort Worth, Texas (1994-1997); and Odyssey Harbor, Inc., Keene, Texas (1991-1994).

Wright is active with the American College of Healthcare Executives and has served as board chair for the Shawnee Mission Medical Center’s Surgery Center in Shawnee Mission, Kansas. His expertise is in fiscal leadership, strategic planning, business development and health care operations.

“I’m thrilled to be back ‘home’ in Southern California and excited to join this great administrative team to face the challenges before us,” Wright says. “I know this is going to be a good work experience.”

]]>
Thu, 12 Mar 2015 11:12:11 -0700
4264:20818 <![CDATA[Notes from the President -- March 2015]]> Dr. Richard Hart   March 2015
Addressing child abuse

It is such an ugly part of our society, so painful to our sensitivities, that we usually avoid talking about it. But let me tell you how Loma Linda is dealing with child abuse in this area. The stories are so repugnant that I am richard hart choosing not to tell any here. However, it should be remembered that several children die every day here in the United States because of abuse and neglect.

In 1986, Dr. Clare Sheridan joined our department of pediatrics after finishing her pediatric residency here at Loma Linda. She had a particular passion for abused children, those who society had failed and who ended up being physically, emotionally, and/or sexually traumatized. Originally from Ireland, Clare had developed a desire to help these children and also to bring the perpetrators, whoever they were, to justice.

Joined in 1989 by Dr. Richard Chinnock when he returned to campus (now chair of pediatrics), they began to tackle what they knew was a major unmet need. It is hard to know numbers of those affected by child abuse, as many cases are never reported and go unnoticed except in the wounded lives of each individual child. Some cases come through the police or sheriff departments, some through the legal system, and many through hospital emergency departments. There is usually a given “explanation” for a child’s bruises or broken bones, and it takes some careful listening and active sleuthing to sort out the real truth. Many children are “repeats,” but without careful attention to medical records, and often comparisons between hospitals, this is often missed.

Another major problem encountered was funding. Who is going to pay for the expertise and time to sort out all the issues and develop a cogent record of what really happened? Health insurers certainly weren’t interested, and many of the families or individuals involved did not even have coverage. Law enforcement and the legal system need to come to a conclusion and move on to the next issue, but often, given the unique features of child abuse cases, they are unable to take the time and care that is necessary to build a strong legal case. And perhaps the most county awarddifficult component of all is obtaining adequate evidence, with careful documentation, of who the abuser is and how the abuse occurred so it can stand up in court. Unlike other crimes where the investigator knows at the outset that a crime has been committed — for example, burglaries and car thefts — in the case of child abuse, parental explanations have to be matched to injuries, and a medical opinion is often required to establish that there has been a crime.

Over the years, the Loma Linda team developed the expertise and credibility to lead this charge, with significant support from local and county law enforcement, Child Protective Services and county administration. Teams of social workers, nurses and forensic specialists of various kinds were assembled and the Children’s Assessment Center (CAC) became a reality in 1992. With major additional financial support from the department of pediatrics and LLU Children’s Hospital, the CAC gradually gained a reputation as one of the best systems in the country.

As you can imagine, recruiting staff, especially doctors, to work in this environment is tough. Seeing the worst of human nature on a daily basis, forcing oneself to question every statement that is made, and detailing cuts and bruises and fractures and emotional trauma on the most innocent among us can take a terrible toll on any person. Fortunately for us, another young graduate, Amy Young, responded to this calling in medical school and then refined her skills and desire during her pediatric residency. Moved with the unique combination of compassion and justice for these children, she joined Clare in 2003.

Lobby

In San Bernardino, a special building was adapted for CAC, just north of the freeway on Tippecanoe. And the volume of work began to grow as more entities recognized the enormity of the problem and desired a quality assessment of suspected cases.

I have had the “privilege” of listening to both Clare and Amy share their stories — stories that will turn your stomach with both disbelief and anger that any adult could do this. The perpetrators are often fueled by alcohol or drugs, which is compounded by their own abusive background. This type of behavior can go on for years, resulting in serious injury or death for many children. The terrible truth is that it sets up the next generation to repeat the behavior and becomes a dark cancer on our society that keeps on spreading.

Both Clare and Amy are now board certified in the new sub-specialty of child abuse pediatrics, a name that itself seems a terrible oxymoron! San Bernardino County recently remodeled a new facility for CAC on the site of the old county hospital in north San Bernardino. It is certainly child-friendly with active colors and pictures that can help to make children as comfortable as possible in this situation. Amy is now the medical director of that facility, while Clare is focusing on expanding the Riverside County Child Assessment Team, which Loma Linda has supported since the late 1980s. Mack, Amy’s Old English sheepdog, is a regular part of the staff now, giving comfort, and even laughter, with licks and wags for the children (and staff) throughout the day.

girl with dog

As emergency department staff become more sensitized to this issue, calls for consultations increase, recently reaching 15 in one week. A fellowship in forensic pediatrics has been established at Loma Linda to train more doctors to develop expertise to care for these children. With long days in court, hours on the phone for callbacks and evidence-gathering, it is not a popular discipline. But those few who are called to this work are impressive individuals and deserve our utmost admiration. Dr. Mark Massi has now joined the physician staff, but we need more. And in this world of child abuse, there is no substitute for the compassion of support staff who help look for clues, follow up on questions and comments, and carry a major part of the investigative work.

Please join me in deep admiration and appreciation for Clare’s work in starting this service, and for Amy and Mark who have joined her with their own commitment and passion. As distasteful as the circumstances are that they see every day, this is Loma Linda at its best —caring for the “least of these.”* While we continue to do our best to stop child abuse at the cause, we are also called to pick up the pieces and do our best to bring health, healing and hope to these children once again.

Sincerely yours,

 

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health 

 

Vision 2020: The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow

* Matthew 25:40

]]>
Wed, 11 Mar 2015 14:46:16 -0700
4264:20763 <![CDATA[Employee health services to close for relocation]]> Employee health services is moving to the Faculty Medical Offices (FMO) room 1250. In order to accommodate preparations for the move, the office on A level of LLU Medical Center will be closed for the week of March 23–27.

Sue Talboom, director, hospital epidemiology/employee health services, says the new location will offer more space and allow the office to provide better service to employees.

The new office will open on Monday, March 30, with hours remaining the same:
• Walk-in service from 7 – 11:15 a.m., Monday through Friday
• Appointments scheduled for the afternoons of Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday.

Questions about the move? Call extension 88797 (909-558-8797).

]]>
Thu, 05 Mar 2015 12:57:36 -0800
4264:20752 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- From small beginnings]]> Heather Reifsnyder With about 6,500 members, Loma Linda University Church is the largest Seventh-day Adventist congregation in North America, according to its website. But when the church decided to form in 1928, it had just 284 members.

At the time, it was called the College Church, and the members met in the chapel of West Hall. (This was not the West Hall of today, but rather the first Loma Linda Hospital, renamed West Hall after it ceased to function as a medical facility. Torn down in 1942, it stood where the Centennial Globe is today.)

Even from early days, the growing congregation needed a bigger facility. Relief came in the form of a new building on campus in 1934. It was multipurpose, housing college chapel programs, scientific lectures and community programs in addition to the College Church. And the college library was in the basement.

The College Church would outgrow that building as well. By the mid 1950s, even two church services couldn’t accommodate all the members. Thus were laid plans for the church building used today on the campus mall.

Last week’s trivia challenge was to name both the building in which the College Church had been meeting and the date that members marched from that building to today’s University Church for their first Sabbath there.

The answers are Burden Hall and Sept. 10, 1960, and the random winners are Bonnie Quishenberry, Amelia Maeda and Francis Chan. Please email pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

Loma Linda University Church is one of two churches on campus, the other being the Campus Hill Church of Seventh-day Adventists.

Did you know that they started out as one church in 1906? It was formed Jan. 6 of that year with 16 charter members, and it was called the Loma Linda Seventh-day Adventist Church.

The new church met in the parlor of the original sanitarium, which, prior to the founding of Loma Linda University in 1905, had been a hotel. Services then moved to a log assembly building until the first church building, called Loma Linda Chapel, opened in 1910.

While the Loma Linda Chapel no longer stands today, an heirloom from it is on display in the university’s Heritage Research Center. What is this artifact?

Email the answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, March 10, for the chance to be selected a random winner. One answer per person.

]]>
Thu, 05 Mar 2015 11:29:03 -0800
4264:20754 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- It pays to bike]]> Courtney Beckwith Haas Working in a full-time position that you enjoy is rewarding. We find jobs that fit us well and we become comfortable with that way of life. But in many cases these positions we put ourselves in (no matter how much we love them) are not going to allot much time for outside activities.

While there is no outstanding quick fix for this daily occurrence, there are ways we can incorporate activity into our workdays. People in sedentary jobs should make time get up and walk and stretch as frequently as possible throughout the day and in addition to that they can bookend the workday with built-in exercise. If you are a local resident or just feel inspired to try something new, why not try going the distance and riding your bike to work?

Bicycling to work is rewarding on many levels. It wakes you up, helps you feel accomplished even prior to digging into your daily workload, reduces pollution and, over time, becomes easier and more enjoyable. In addition to the added benefit of incorporating cardio activity into our otherwise stagnant days, Loma Linda University Health employees are encouraged to participate in this means of transportation through a program called “Rideshare.”

According to Rideshare regulations, “Any Rideshare Member that rides their bicycle to and from work is eligible for a $60 dollar a quarter bonus. The bonus will be added to the employee’s paycheck if all requirements of membership are completed.”

If you are interested in Rideshare, here are a few qualifications:

  • Employees must start workday between 6 a.m. and 10 a.m. or work a qualifying shift that is defined by Federal Regulation as any employee that is scheduled to work an established shift recognized by the employer.
  • Employees assigned to 8, 8.5, 9 or 10-hour shifts must ride a minimum of three workdays per week.
  • Only one qualifying day may be either a Saturday or Sunday.
  • Employees assigned to a 12-hour shift must ride a bike a minimum of two workdays per week.

Why not try something new and participate in this program? When you think of all the benefits to yourself and the environment, it just makes sense. To start your bicycling adventure off right, please take the “Cycling Quiz” from the LLU Medical Center health library to gear up on your biking knowledge. 

And be safe on the streets. Learn more about bicycle rules and safety from the California Department of Motor Vehicles.

]]>
Thu, 05 Mar 2015 11:38:59 -0800
4264:20755 <![CDATA[Share feedback in employee survey]]> By now, each employee should have received an invitation and personalized access code for the 2015 employee engagement survey. Using the code provided, employees can take the survey online or via phone through March 24.

The annual survey gives employees the opportunity to share anonymous feedback about their work environment. It should take less than 10 minutes to complete.

Through sharing their ideas and perceptions, employees can play a positive role in improving the services of Loma Linda University Health.

Any employee who did not receive an access code should contact Gallup client support at 800-788-9987 during the hours of 5:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 5:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. on Fridays.

For more information about the survey, ask your direct supervisor.

]]>
Thu, 05 Mar 2015 11:50:21 -0800
4264:20758 <![CDATA[Power of Inclusion Speakers to Include Deputy Surgeon General ]]> Briana Pastorino United States Deputy Surgeon General, Rear Admiral Boris D. Lushniak, MD, MPH, will lead a number of high-powered presenters at the 3rd Annual Power of Inclusion conference at Loma Linda University Health on March 31 and April 1.

This year’s conference, “United We Stand,” will focus on the important role veterans play as a part of Loma Linda University Health’s workplace commitment to diversity and inclusion.

The two-day event is open to employees and the public and will include presentations and panel discussions from top government officials, internationally acclaimed subject matter experts, best-selling authors and motivational speakers on how to build on the culture of inclusion in the workplace. Conference admission is free except for a special lunch session on March 31 and a food festival on April 1; see more information about both below.

“Loma Linda University Health is looking forward to the message the United States deputy surgeon general will bring to our campus,” said Cari M. Dominguez, PhD, chief talent and diversity officer at Loma Linda University Health. “This organization is blessed to be richly diverse, with individuals of all backgrounds, races, nationalities, career experiences and personal characteristics coming together to make a positive difference in the lives of others. We believe that diversity inspires creativity; inclusion unites individuals; and access provides opportunities. We celebrate and promote these three messages on our campus.”

Rear Admiral Lushniak will kick off the event on March 31 with a keynote address on promoting inclusion in wellness at 9:00 a.m. in the Centenniel Complex, 24760 Stewart Street, Loma Linda.

Following Lushniak’s keynote, a special lunch session with actor, best-selling author, motivational speaker and wounded United States Army veteran J.R. Martinez will take place in the Wong Kerlee International Conference Center, 11175 Campus Street, Loma Linda at 11:30 a.m. This limited-seating portion of the event is $15 and includes lunch. Also known for his season 13 win on “Dancing With the Stars,” Martinez will share his story of survival, strength and spirit. Pre-registration is recommended and available on the Power of Inclusion website.

Other notable speakers scheduled to present at the two-day conference:

• Juana Bordas, president, Mestiza Leadership International
• Greg Crouse, United States Army veteran and 2016 Paralympic Games candidate
• Sue Hoppin, MA, expert on military spouse and family
• Lieutenant Commander Heidi Kraft, PhD, clinical psychologist military combat stress specialist
• Susan R. Meisinger, SPHR, JD, author and former CEO of Society for Human Resource Management
• Anthony Odierro, MBA, retired United States Army First Lieutenant, Bronze Star and Purple Heart recipient

Power of Inclusion will conclude with an international food festival on April 1 from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. at Loma Linda University Drayson Center. Tickets are available for $5 which includes entry into the event as well as food representing eight continents, with over 30 delicious dishes to enjoy. Veterans and active military that attend in uniform will get free admission into the food festival. Tickets will be available at the door or can be purchased in advance on the Power of Inclusion website.

For more information on the event, including tickets and registration, visit powerofinclusion.org.

]]>
Thu, 05 Mar 2015 12:40:50 -0800
4264:20759 <![CDATA[International food festival to bring the flavor]]> Loma Linda University Health’s third annual international food festival on
April 1 will be the finale to the Power of Inclusion Conference.

Designed for the whole family, the food festival will take place from 5–8:00 p.m. at the Drayson Center, 25040 Stewart Street, Loma Linda, CA 92354.

Tickets are $5 and include more than 30 different dishes to enjoy, set to live music. Dressing in international attire is encouraged, and those in military uniform will be given complimentary entrance.

Tickets can be purchased at the door or online at www.powerofinclusion.org.

Get a feel for what awaits you with this promo video:

]]>
Thu, 05 Mar 2015 12:42:00 -0800
4264:20694 <![CDATA[They walked, they ran, they rolled...]]> By Briana Pastorino and Nancy Yuen The 2nd Annual Power of Inclusion 5K on Feb. 22 attracted 292 participants, 43 of them challenged athletes. They were there to walk, run or roll toward a common goal — celebrating diversity and promoting and raising funds for PossAbilities’ grant and scholarship fund.

PossAbilities is a free, nonprofit community outreach program operated by Loma Linda University Health. The goal is to provide those with permanent physical disabilities support and resources to stay active and healthy. The 5k benefited its programs such as accessibility grants, educational scholarships, social outings to community events, adaptive equipment and more.

Among those who experienced the joy of participating in the event were 12 special needs children and their families. They were there as part of Angeles Especiales, a local Spanish-speaking support group for families with children with disabilities, and they are all PossAbilities members.

A second organization, Exceeding Expectations (EE) brought 72 children to participate. Many in the group placed as top finishers in their respective age groups. EE is a program in San Bernardino that serves an inner-city population and encourages at-risk kids to move their lives in a positive direction, using the sport of triathlon as the vehicle.

The Power of Inclusion 5K is the precursor to the third-annual Power of Inclusion conference at Loma Linda University Health, which will be held March 31 and April 1. For more information, visit http://lomalindahealth.org/power-of-inclusion/index.page.

]]>
Thu, 26 Feb 2015 16:07:19 -0800
4264:20692 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- Facing landmarks]]> Heather Reifsnyder Last week’s question was about an organization separate from Loma Linda University but with a historically shared vision of dental missions. The organization was formed with the intent of creating a Seventh-day Adventist dental school. To identify the organization was last week’s trivia challenge.

From among those who correctly answered the National Association of Seventh-day Adventist Dentists — also known as NASDAD — were chosen random winners Linda Harty, Amanda L. Perry and Eun-Hwi Cho. Please email pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

The College of Medical Evangelists — as Loma Linda University was known back then — had also been dreaming of starting a dental school for many years.  

The dreamed-of idea became a reality with the opening of Loma Linda University School of Dentistry in autumn 1953. Tasked to serve as the first dean was M. Webster Prince, DDS, who was one of the founders of NASDAD (which still has an office in the School of Dentistry).

For its first two years, the school didn’t have a building of its own. But on Sept. 18, 1955, the College of Medical Evangelists dedicated a new building for the school, where it is still housed today. After Prince’s death in 1969, the building was named for him.

Speaking about the building, Godfrey T. Anderson, president of the College of Medical Evangelists from 1954–1967, said “From [the day of dedication] on, the School of Dentistry building, with its active group of faculty and students, has been a campus landmark to which we direct visitors with pride and satisfaction.” 

Still a landmark today, Prince Hall is one of the buildings surrounding the south campus mall. Directly across the mall is Loma Linda University Church.

Today’s trivia question is a two-parter: What was the date of the first Sabbath that church members spent in this building, and up until then, where had the church been meeting?

Email the answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, March 3, for a chance to win. One answer per person.

]]>
Thu, 26 Feb 2015 16:06:32 -0800
4264:20677 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- Have a stress-free day]]> Courtney Haas Stress. We all know it, understand it and experience it on a daily basis. Even the word itself conjures up a feeling of unease that can feel, quite frankly, stressful.

Every situation in life has the ability to lead to stress, but our stress level in part depends on how we approach those situations. Stress is a normal part of life and can be caused by physical and emotional factors, such as not getting enough sleep, having an illness, worrying about money or the death of a loved one. In addition to these, it can also be caused by the everyday responsibilities and pressures that we face, be it at work or home.

I am new to the working world and newly married, and let me tell you, I have been stressed. Within the last 10 months I have experienced stress to the max. I moved across the country away from everyone I knew in North Carolina for a job that I was not sure I would fit into, all while attempting to plan the wedding of my dreams. Experts say these big life changes are some of the most stressful situations humans face. Looking back on this time, I realized one very important thing. We create stress for ourselves simply because it is in our human nature to worry. 

But, according to the Loma Linda University Medical Center health library, there are things we can do to help decrease stress. Follow these steps and see if you notice a difference in your stress levels.

• Get plenty of exercise. Exercise can help to counteract the harmful effects that stress can have on your body. Not only does regular exercise act as a de-stressor, it also strengthens your heart, helps control weight and lowers blood pressure. And it is proven that people who participate in regular exercise have reduced blood pressure numbers and their heart rates do not go as high as those under stress who do not exercise.

• Build a strong support system. Having a strong support system is essential to remaining calm. A strong support network, like being married, having close family relations, or having good friendships allows you to have a confidant you can trust and talk with. This helps to move the stressors outside of your mind, which in turn lowers stress levels.

• Seek treatment for constant depression or anxiety. Sometimes stress leads to more serious problems like anxiety or depression. To reduce negative feelings, try activities that are shown to reduce stress while keeping you active. These activities can range from yoga, walking meditation, traditional meditation, and guided imagery to any number of other methods. Sometimes the help of a professional is required in a stressful situation, and there is no shame in needing it.

• Reduce stress from work. Studies have shown that having a challenging job with limited opportunities to make decisions and receiving little reward can increase the risk for heart disease. But most people cannot just up and quit their jobs, so here are a few solutions. Try to take time every day away from work to do something you enjoy, something that you find to be relaxing and calming. For many people that may be reading, going for a long walk or even meditative deep breathing.

Life is stressful, that is the gospel truth, but the things that stress us out do not define who we are. We are strong, intelligent individuals who are loved and cherished. So get out there and exercise, spend time with loved ones, and for goodness sake, don’t let work define your life. There are so many things in life more important than the little stressors.

Have a stress-free day everyone! 

Source and more info: http://healthlibrary.lomalindahealth.org/Search/1,2171

]]>
Thu, 26 Feb 2015 11:39:59 -0800
4264:20679 <![CDATA[Now appearing: healthy snacks in campus vending machines]]> Courtney Haas In our busy lives, it is difficult to make time to eat healthy foods, work out and relax. While it is up to you to work out and take time for relaxation and enjoyment, Loma Linda University Health is rolling out new, healthier choices in all of the vending machines located across campus — making it easier than ever to choose healthy snacks.

By enjoying wholesome food from these vending machines, you are joining Loma Linda University Health in the campus-wide effort to “Live It” – i.e., living the healthier lifestyle the organization promotes. It will leave you feeling like a “whole” new person. 

On Feb. 25, a healthy snack expo for the “Snack Healthy, Live It” campaign was held. Attendees were given the opportunity to see and taste what the vending machines would hold. A cross-section of faculty, staff, students, clinical personnel and administrators all participated in the samplings while rating the foods based on factors such as flavor, presentation, cost and healthful ingredients.

“The health expo was great!” Tina Pruna, MPH, director of community-academic partners in service (CAPS) said. “It is exciting to know that we have the healthier options available on campus because I feel that it really does coincide with our mission at Loma Linda University Health.”

The transition in snack options began in January and planned completion is by the end of March. Vending options will consist of delicious snacks like all-natural potato chips, nutty rice bites, cranberry snacks, juices and waters, along with many other choices.

With such ease and availability, be sure to enjoy the new healthy vending choices across the Loma Linda University Health campus and join us in “Living It” nutritiously. 

]]>
Thu, 26 Feb 2015 11:48:25 -0800
4264:20678 <![CDATA[Open house celebrates new Center for Dental Research]]> Susan Onuma Loma Linda University School of Dentistry celebrated the addition of 5,631-square feet of dedicated research space to its Center for Dental Research with a grand opening event on Feb. 24.

The Center for Dental Research is designed to accommodate cutting-edge, state-of-the-art technology and equipment that will be housed in the expanded facility.

The grand re-opening celebration took place at the center’s pristine, ground-floor location in the east wing of Chan Shun Pavilion on the Loma Linda University Health campus.

“Research is a key component of our calling, as it enhances the prospect of wholeness,” says Yiming Li, DDS, PhD, MSD, associate dean for research and professor, School of Dentistry, as well as director, Center for Dental Research. “The center’s new research space will help our school sustain its top-tier ranking in areas of education, patient care and research.”

Loma Linda University Health and the LLU School of Dentistry provided tours of the new facility, meet-and-greets with its researchers and staff, demonstrations of the new research equipment, and learning opportunities about the future of dental research.

The School of Dentistry has a remarkable legacy of oral health care innovation and research that includes collaboration with researchers in nearly a dozen countries. Its revitalized Center for Dental Research builds on a productive and estimable history of providing investigatory services that, since 1998, have developed research protocols and performed basic science and clinical studies sponsored by government, industry and foundations that total nearly $16 million.

]]>
Thu, 26 Feb 2015 11:41:42 -0800
4264:20690 <![CDATA[Watch CNN program highlighting Loma Linda University Health]]> Calvin Naito CNN’s “Vital Signs with Dr. Sanjay Gupta” is currently airing a show devoted to healthy aging and greater longevity that features the Loma Linda University Health community and its long-running and leading research and programs.

To view the program, visit www.cnn.com/specials/health/vital-signs. It is broken into three clips: “the art of aging,” “the secrets of centenarians” and “the principles of living longer.”

The 30-minute program, which is also being broadcast on the CNN International channel worldwide during February, addresses the universal question, “What can one do to live a healthier, happier and longer life?”

Loma Linda University Health has a long tradition of focusing on that question and earnestly seeking answers. The interviewees include Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health.

In the show, Gupta, CNN’s chief medical correspondent, focuses on the commonalities within the world’s five “Blue Zones,” which author and explorer Dan Buettner has identified as areas where residents live the longest.

Loma Linda is the only Blue Zone in the United States. Loma Linda University Health also has the distinction of engaging in the world’s longest-running research studies on aging and longevity. The studies are collectively called the Adventist Health Studies, which are cited in the show. Here is a link with more information on the studies: www.llu.edu/public-health/health/index.page.

The setting for the opening portion of the show is Loma Linda, and interviewees mention the key factors of healthy living, such as maintaining a plant-based diet, regular exercise, rest and relaxation, and close social connections. The importance of a sense of mission is also mentioned.

Hart says in the program that one of the key factors is “having a purpose in what you are doing.”

As a Seventh-day Adventist Christian health sciences institution, Loma Linda University Health has a long history embracing a lifestyle of wholeness, and it has led the way for over a century in educating others about the benefits of healthy eating and an active lifestyle. Loma Linda University Health’s motto is “to make man whole.” 

]]>
Thu, 26 Feb 2015 14:56:59 -0800
4264:20602 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- a dreamed-of school]]> Heather Reifsnyder The year 1951 was defining for one of Loma Linda University’s professional schools. On Oct. 21 of that year, officers of Loma Linda University’s parent organization, the Seventh-day Adventist Church, voted to establish said school.

To identify this school was last week’s trivia challenge. Today’s randomly selected winners, chosen from among those who answered the School of Dentistry, are Deborah Baldwin, Phillip Loeak and W. William Hughes. Please email pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

It was a dream to establish a dental school from the early days of the College of Medical Evangelists, as LLU was formerly known, and for the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Why? For one reason, most dental schools held classes and exams on Saturday, which is a day observed by Adventists as the Sabbath. Additionally, college and church leaders wanted Adventist dentists who were educated with a sense of Christian mission. 

In fact, a group of Adventist dentists joined together in 1943 with the express aim of establishing a denominational school of dentistry. What was the name of this organization, which still has an office on campus? Send the answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, Feb. 24, for the chance to win. One answer per person.

]]>
Thu, 19 Feb 2015 11:51:25 -0800
4264:20613 <![CDATA[Support School of Pharmacy students in national campaign]]> Courtney Haas Loma Linda University Health School of Pharmacy has recently created a series of videos to promote the “Script Your Future” campaign, a national push to encourage prescription medication adherence.

The first video focuses on the importance of taking medications as scheduled.  It gives viewers several convenient ways remember to take medications on time.  

The second video focuses specifically on diabetes and the effects it can take on one’s body.

You can get involved and help support the School of Pharmacy in this campaign by viewing these two videos and “taking the pledge to take your meds” by electronically signing. At the end of the campaign, five schools will be recognized nationally and receive grant funds as reward for having the highest number of signups.

“Script Your Future is here to help people manage health problems such as diabetes, COPD, asthma, high blood pressure or high cholesterol,” according to scriptyourfuture.org. “When you learn that you have a long-term health problem, one of the most important ways you can manage your condition is by taking your medicine as directed by your doctor, pharmacist, or other health care professional.”

The School of Pharmacy is participating in this campaign with the aim of raising awareness of the fact that one out of three people never fill their prescriptions. Nearly 45 percent of the population has one or more chronic conditions that require medications — yet nearly three out of four Americans do not take their medications as directed, and more than one-third of medication-related hospital admissions are linked to poor medication adherence. This all leads to a $290 billion cost to Americans each year, according to the School of Pharmacy.

“In addition to raising awareness we are also working to provide free health screenings at various events we are hosting,” says Rithy Tamba, administrative assistant to Nancy Kawahara, PharmD, MSEd, associate dean for assessment and professional affairs, LLU School of Pharmacy.   

“We have the entire student body involved with this campaign, but it’s really the student organizations that worked the hardest,” she adds. “I also want to give credit to Amanda Golay, third-year pharmacy student, as she took the lead on this year’s campaign and has done an amazing job with her efforts.”

In addition to the videos, students have participated in events at a retiree home in Riverside to talk about medication management as well as providing blood pressure and bone density screenings. Another event took place at the Riverside Free Clinic, where students provided free health screenings to the public while incorporating discussions about medication adherence.

To learn more, be sure to mark your calendars for these upcoming events:

  • On Feb. 19, students will be hosing a booth at the Redlands Market Night specifically to discuss medication adherence as well as providing blood pressure and bone density screenings.
  • On Feb. 26, students will once again be at Redlands Market Night distributing fliers to promote awareness of medication adherence. 

The student organizations in the LLU School of Pharmacy supporting this campaign are their chapters of the American Pharmacist Association, California Pharmacist Association, Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy, California Society of Health Systems Pharmacist, National Community Pharmacists Association, Student National Pharmacist Association, Rho Chi, Phi Lambda Sigma and Christian Pharmacists Fellowship International.

]]>
Thu, 19 Feb 2015 13:19:52 -0800
4264:20590 <![CDATA[Child abuse prevention film now available worldwide]]> Courtney Haas One year ago, Loma Linda University Health produced an award-winning documentary, “End It Now: Understanding and Preventing Child Abuse.” This film emphasizes the fact that child abuse is much more common than we think.

“End It Now” explores this silent killer and the dramatic effect it can have on a person's life as they mature into adulthood. 

The film explores the roles that we can all play in helping to prevent child abuse. It also shows what to do if one is experiencing abuse personally. 

The film has been shown on Loma Linda University Health television shows such as “Loma Linda 360” and “Life on the Line.” After winning an Emmy Award, “End It Now” is now being used as a training tool by child abuse prevention organizations across the nation.

A trailer can be viewed below.

“End It Now: Understanding and Preventing Child Abuse” can be purchased at the Loma Linda University Health Campus Store and on Amazon.

 

]]>
Thu, 19 Feb 2015 09:29:11 -0800
4264:20582 <![CDATA[Wellness webinar series teaches healthy ways to Live It]]> Living Whole Employee Wellness Program On Feb. 25 the Living Whole Employee Wellness Program is hosting a webinar that teaches how to “Live Heart Healthy” with speaker Esmerelda Guerrer, MS.

The wellness webinar series is offered free monthly and is open to anyone with an interest in learning more about personal health and wellness. Loma Linda University Health staff, faculty and students, as well as friends and family members, are all invited to participate.

Each webinar focuses on learning ways to practice wellness in our everyday lives. The sessions feature topics designed to help you and your family be healthy while also providing the opportunity to interact with experts from Loma Linda University Health.

Wellness webinars will be held the last Wednesday of each month and are approved by Loma Linda University Health Organization Wide Learning (OWL).

While all are welcome to attend, space for these webinars is limited so pre-registration is advised. 

To register, log on to ce.llu.edu and search “wellness,” or call 909-651-4007.

The schedule for 2015 is packed with phenomenal speakers and intriguing topics. Check it out below to learn what webinars you do not want to miss. 

 

 

Date Webinar Topic Presenter
February 25 Live Heart Healthy Esmerelda Guerrero, MS, RD
March 25 Bite into a Healthy Lifestyle Caitlin McKee, MS, RD
April 29 Gluten Free Diets Caitlin McKee, MS, RD
May 27 Reaching for Fitness Ron Rea, DScPT
June 24 Fresh & Easy: Fruits and Vegetables Cory Gheen, MS
July 29 In Pursuit of Peace Dilys Brooks, MDiv, MS, MA
August 26 Disaster Preparedness: What's in Your Toolbox Brett McPherson, RN, BSN
September 30 Take a Stand Against Sitting "Disease" Ernie Medina, DrPH
October 28 Vegetarianism, Is it Worth It? Joan Sabate, MD, DrPH
November 18 The Truth About Diabetes Debbie Clausen, MSN, FNP, CDE
December 16 Stress Free Holidays: Yes, It's Possible! Shelby Roemer, LMFT
]]>
Wed, 18 Feb 2015 16:20:17 -0800
4264:20605 <![CDATA[Live your best life]]> Heather Reifsnyder From March 9 to 11, the Healthy People in Healthy Communities Conference will examine strategies for how women and men can better become active, boost their happiness, be connected with the community and achieve better health in the workplace.

“Issues relating to activity and happiness are some of the most important community, business and personal health issues facing Americans today,” says Krystal Gheen, MPH, conference planner and instructor of public health nutrition, Loma Linda University School of Public Health.

The purpose of the annual Healthy People in Healthy Communities Conference, hosted by the School of Public Health, is to promote better health through a multidisciplinary understanding of the effects of lifestyle and the built environment on human wellness.

This year’s conference — the 42nd annual — will be hosted by lifestyle physician Chidi Ngwaba, MD, a leading health expert in Europe. He will also deliver the opening plenary session March 9, setting the conference’s tone by showing how unhealthy the world has become, then demonstrating how innovation can effectively address this.

Two keynote addresses will be delivered. Robert Sallis, MD, will offer “Exercise is Medicine: Merging Fitness with Health Care” on March 10. “Exercise is Medicine” is a joint initiative that Sallis chairs for the American Medical Association and American College of Sports Medicine, the latter organization of which he is a past president. Sallis is also a practicing family physician with Kaiser Permanente.

The March 11 keynote address — “Blue Zones: Secrets of a Long Life” — will be delivered by Nick Buettner. He will offer a science-backed blueprint for adding 12 years of life for the average American. Buettner is the community and corporate program director at Blue Zones, LLC.

A special session will be offered by Karyn Buxman, MSN, on “Achieving Success, Significance and Happiness: Lead with Laughter.” Buxman is an internationally renowned speaker and author specializing in achieving peak health and performance through neuroscience.

A faith-health symposium will feature Harold Koening, MD, among several other panelists discussing the correlation between religion and wellness, and the implications for whole-person care. Lessons learned from the Adventist Health Studies at Loma Linda University will be highlighted. This is open to non-conference attendees for $25. The symposium is included in the package for general conference registrants. 

A special lunch for alumni of the School of Public Health will take place March 10.

More information on the program and speakers is available at www.healthypeopleconference.org.

Registration, which includes up to 15.5 continuing education credits, is also available on the website. General registration costs $299. School of Public Health alumni pay $249, and students can register for $99.

]]>
Thu, 19 Feb 2015 11:55:22 -0800
4264:20603 <![CDATA[Three weeks from today: Children's Hospital Gala ]]> Jiggs Gallagher and Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital will celebrate its 22nd annual Foundation Gala, presented by Hard Rock Hotel Palm Springs, at the Riverside Convention Center on Thursday, March 12.

This year’s program is titled, “Rhapsody in Gold.” The theme celebrates the “Golden Twenties,” including both the 1920s (that’s a costuming hint for those so inclined!) and the 2020s, when Loma Linda University Health (and the Children’s Hospital) will have successfully concluded the dramatic Vision 2020 campaign, erecting new children’s and adult hospital towers and changing health care in the region for decades to come.

Tickets are available for $220 (tables of 10 for $2,200). Dinner, a live silent auction and social time will take place from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., with the program beginning at 7:30.

Proceeds from this year’s gala will go to support Vision 2020 and the building of a tomorrow for our children where health care is whole care — treating mind, body and spirit.

Get tickets and learn more at www.lomalindagala.org. For questions about reservations, tickets and sponsorship opportunities, please call Tiffany Hoekstra at 909-558-5370.

Gala organizers are still looking for volunteers (age 18 and up) willing to serve from 4 p.m. on March 12 through the evening. To volunteer, email GDAllen@llu.edu or call 909-558-5370.

]]>
Thu, 19 Feb 2015 11:53:16 -0800
4264:20607 <![CDATA[U.S. congressman visits Loma Linda University Health]]> Jiggs Gallagher U.S. Rep. Pete Aguilar, the former mayor of Redlands who was elected to the House of Representatives last November, visited Loma Linda University Health the morning of Feb. 19 and enjoyed a tour of the facilities. 

“I’m proud that Loma Linda University Health provides so many wonderful services to our communities in the Inland Empire and is such a leader in health education around the world,” said Aguilar. “I’m so pleased to have such a great resource right here in my district!” 

The representative also spent time with Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health; Roger Hadley, MD, dean of the LLU School of Medicine; and Kerry Heinrich, JD, CEO of Loma Linda University Medical Center.

This was Aguilar’s first visit to the campus since taking office Jan. 6. He represents California’s 31st congressional district, which includes the city of Loma Linda.

]]>
Thu, 19 Feb 2015 12:02:26 -0800
4264:20542 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- Circa 1950]]> Heather Reifsnyder We will momentarily announce the winners of last week’s trivia’s challenge. But first, a little background:

The School of Nursing — Loma Linda University’s oldest school — dates to the year 1905. With its official curriculum beginning in January 1906, it was called the Nurses’ Training School. The first class graduated in 1907, and it received official accreditation from the California Department of Health in 1917.

In 1924, its name became the School of Nursing. Two years later, the College of Medical Evangelists (Loma Linda University’s name at the time) organized a second School of Nursing at the college’s Los Angeles campus. The two schools ran concurrently until the late 1940s, both offering a three-year diploma.

In 1948, the College of Medical Evangelists decided to raise the level of the nursing educational program to baccalaureate and to consolidate the two programs. Last week’s trivia question asked who became the first dean of that new four-year school in 1949.

Cynthia Potts, Graham Allen and Dolores Wright are the three randomly chosen winners among those who correctly answered Kathryn Jensen Nelson, MS. Please email pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

A 1917 graduate of the Nurses’ Training School, Nelson earned $46.75 per week, the maximum rate approved for directors by the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists (Loma Linda University’s parent organization).

Under her leadership, the new collegiate-level School of Nursing received national accreditation in 1951.

1951 was also an important year for another school at Loma Linda University. That was the year that officers of the General Conference voted to establish said school. Which of LLU’s eight schools was this?

Email the answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, Feb. 17, for the chance to be a random winner. One answer per person.

]]>
Thu, 12 Feb 2015 11:33:36 -0800
4264:20531 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- Cook your way to a healthy heart]]> Courtney Haas February is American Heart Month and that leads to the question of “What can I do to keep my heart healthy?” Luckily there are copious amounts of easy lifestyle changes that can benefit your heart's health. Cooking right is one of them.

We all want to be healthy, but when it comes down to doing something about it, we tend to just put it on the backburner and say, “Oh, I’ll start exercising tomorrow and maybe eat a few more fruits and veggies.”

Stop it. This is your wake-up call, and it is time that we at Loma Linda University Health start living out our message of wholeness.

One of the most important things we can do as healthy people is make smart, conscious decisions when it comes to exercising or cooking. Studies show that if you take the time to cook your meals at home, you have more control over what you are putting into your body. Sounds simple, right? So let’s do it. Let’s start cooking and truly make healthy decisions.

Here are some simple changes in the way you cook that can help your heart to function stronger for longer. Tips are from the research of the Loma Linda University Adventist Health Study-1.

-       Fruits and vegetables are linked to a lower risk of heart disease.

-       Consuming nuts several times a week may reduce the risk of heart attack by up to 50 percent.

-       Drinking at least five glasses of water each day may also help to reduce your risk of heart disease by 50 percent.

-       Finally, eating whole-meal bread, as opposed to white, reduces the nonfatal heart attack risk by up to 45 percent.

The American Heart Association offers some additional tips for healthy cooking: 

-       Substitute egg whites in the place of whole eggs.

-       Opt to buy fat-free or light versions of salad dressings, dips and dairy products.

-       Try to find products with low salt levels.

-       If you’re a meat lover, make sure that you trim the visible fat prior to cooking. 

With so many small lifestyle changes available, it is up to us to take advantage of them and truly “live it!” 

]]>
Thu, 12 Feb 2015 09:57:39 -0800
4264:20526 <![CDATA[Watch Adrian's story after Children's Hospital helps him learn to Live It again. ]]> ]]> Thu, 12 Feb 2015 08:31:07 -0800 4264:20535 <![CDATA[Nominate colleagues for Power of Inclusion Award]]> David Conkerite Loma Linda University Health has served the local, national and international communities for over 100 years through excellence in education and health care. The organization’s successes and medical breakthroughs have been attained by an unwavering commitment to the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ. Part of that commitment is fostering a culture of inclusion, where all of God’s children can learn, heal and thrive in harmony.

The Power of Inclusion Award is designed to recognize members of the Loma Linda University Health community, be they individuals or departments, as well as members of the surrounding communities at large, exemplifying the highest commitment to a culture that is supportive and inclusive of diversity.

A nominee will have demonstrated evidence that may include, but is not limited to, one or more of the following:

• Leadership in building a culture of inclusion on campus and/or in the community
• Visible support and commitment of programs and events that promote multicultural understanding and inclusion
• Involvement in driving efforts to overcome areas of underrepresentation in diversity of student, faculty and staff positions within area(s) of responsibility
• Support of community and philanthropic efforts that work to advance quality of life for those disadvantaged by economic or social conditions
•Participation in research or similar initiatives that focus attention on health/educational imbalances associated with diversity issues. 

Nominations will be evaluated and finalist(s) selected by a designated Power of Inclusion committee. A member of the committee will notify the finalist(s). The award, which will consist of an engraved plaque and gift certificate, will be presented at the International Food Festival to be held on April 1 in conjunction with the Power of Inclusion conference.

In support of the nomination, please complete the nomination form found on the Power of Inclusion website and address the following:

  • Description of specific initiative, action(s) or accomplishment of the nominee
  • Explanation of why the nominee is deserving of the award
  • Documentation of any results and effect upon the campus and/or community
  • Alignment of results with organizational mission and values
  • Additional comments or testimonials

Nominations are due by March 16 to the office of talent management and diversity at Loma Linda University Health. Fill out the electronic form on the website, or send nominations to dconkerite@llu.edu or 11060 Anderson Street, Magan Hall 104, Loma Linda, CA 92354.

]]>
Thu, 12 Feb 2015 11:25:42 -0800
4264:20528 <![CDATA[New PossAbilities come in the form of million-dollar sponsorship ]]> Briana Pastorino Loma Linda University Health PossAbilities was presented with a check on Jan. 28 for $1 million from its new title sponsor, Quest Diagnostics, one of the world’s leading providers of diagnostic testing, information and services. 

“Today, we begin our partnership with Quest Diagnostics, an organization that shares the same passion as Loma Linda University Health ‘to make man whole,’” said Lyndon Edwards, MBA, MHS, senior vice president of Loma Linda University Medical Center East Campus, Surgical Hospital, Highland Springs Medical Plaza and the Behavioral Medicine Center, during the check presentation.

Leadership of Loma Linda University Health and Quest Diagnostics, Loma Linda University Health patients and members of PossAbilities were all in attendance at the event.

The sponsorship agreement, which officially began Jan. 1, 2015, calls for Quest Diagnostics to contribute $1 million over the next three years to the PossAbilities program — the free, non-profit community outreach program for individuals with permanent physical disabilities.

Jean-Marc Halbout, regional vice president of Quest Diagnostics, said he is looking forward to a very fruitful relationship with PossAbilities.

“We are honored and privileged to support this program,” Halbout said. “Our mission is evolving, and we are focusing on actions that will make a difference in health care, transforming the lives of the patients we serve.”

The care Loma Linda University Health provides is driven by its motto, “to make man whole,” and this treatment does not end when a patient is discharged from the hospital. PossAbilities gives patients with permanent physical disabilities the opportunity to continue growing stronger both physically and mentally through various projects and activities.

Edwards went on to add, “PossAbilities does a wonderful job of getting patients to an optimal state after an injuring experience.”

2016 Paralympic hopeful Greg Crouse, an army veteran who lost his left leg while serving overseas in 1988, has been a part of PossAbilities since 2008. Crouse expressed his gratitude to both organizations during the event, saying, “I’m honored to be a part of PossAbilities. Thank you for making my dreams a reality.”

The money from the Quest contribution will be used to fund the diverse activities hosted by PossAbilities, including the Road to Rio program for Paralympic hopefuls, the annual triathlon (coming April 26), youth camps and mentorships, the Redlands Bicycle Classic Para-Cycling Race Series and the Inland Empire Disabilities Collaborative Expo and Conference.

Pedro Payne, PhD, director of PossAbilities, expressed his gratitude by saying, “We could not do all these things without partners like Quest.”

Additionally, the funds will underwrite the annual grant and scholarship program that awards more than $50,000 per year in adaptive equipment, accessibility projects, sporting activities and educational scholarships for PossAbilities members.

For more information about PossAbilities, visit www.teampossabilities.org.

]]>
Thu, 12 Feb 2015 09:22:09 -0800
4264:20540 <![CDATA[Read a LOV story]]> Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Health has just released Vol. III of “LOV Stories.” It is a collection of 52 stories from employees about the moments of wonder that transpire when we practice “Living Our Values.”

Each employee is entitled to a free copy of “LOV Stories.” Request yours by emailing cccassist@llu.edu.

“The purpose of LOV stories is to inspire us to be our best. We take this opportunity to celebrate all of our employees who perform their duties with compassion and integrity on a daily basis,” says editor-in-chief Kathy McMillan, MA, director of employee spiritual care, Loma Linda University Medical Center.

The stories are written by or about employees from a cross-section of the organization, chronicling inspiring moments that occurred in areas ranging from security to patient units to philanthropy.

“Every day, throughout Loma Linda University Health, there are extraordinary events that take place,” writes Gerald Winslow, PhD, vice president for mission and culture, in the book’s forward. “Our employees, students and physicians live out our mission in remarkable ways. In this third volume of stories, we take time again to celebrate those moments and the caregivers who make them possible.”

In addition to McMillan, the editorial team for “LOV Stories” was composed of Karla Aryan, Sylvie Haber, Shelly Moore, Cheri Moreno, Olivia Seheult and Nancy Yuen.

“These are stories that inspire us with the strength to keep going or show us new ways to love one another,” McMillan says.

]]>
Thu, 12 Feb 2015 11:31:57 -0800
4264:20538 <![CDATA[LLU Printing Services is now Digital Production Ink]]> Nancy Blaire Digital Production Ink is the new name for specialty printing, copying, embroidery, laser engraving and many other services at Loma Linda University Health. Formerly known as Loma Linda University Printing Services, the department has provided service to the organization for several decades. The new name becomes effective February 2015.

“Digital Production Ink is more than just a new name,” says Jeremy Hubbard, director of business innovation at Loma Linda University Shared Services. “It’s our commitment to seek innovative service solutions that support Loma Linda University Health and our organization’s mission.”

The Digital Production Ink team is what makes the business unique. With a wealth of experience and expertise, team members have a combined total of over 400,000 service hours, and they are committed to providing excellent customer service solutions. 

Why the change? Digital Production Ink has expanded its offerings to include a variety of services that go outside the realm of traditional printing. In April 2014, embroidery and laser engraving services became available, and large format banner printing, digital offset printing, a variety of expanded finishing services as well as electronic form design have been added over the past several years. 

“Our team is excited to find new ways to support the organization,” Jennifer Rowland, manager for the department, says. “We look forward to a bright future with Digital Production Ink.” 

Help us celebrate! Mention this article to receive 10 percent off your next order at Digital Production Ink.* Bring ideas to life with personalized cards, invitations, canvas prints, custom embroidery, photo prints and more.

Proceeds from Digital Production Ink sales go directly to LLU Foundation, the steward of gifts and endowments for the entire Loma Linda University Health enterprise.

Learn more about Digital Production Ink at its website.

*For individual purchases only. Discount available through Feb. 27, 2015.

]]>
Thu, 12 Feb 2015 11:27:40 -0800
4264:20462 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- A long tradition of leadership]]> Heather Reifsnyder Identifying the name and years of service of Loma Linda University’s only female president was the challenge posed in last week’s trivia post. This special individual is B. Lyn Behrens, MBBS, who led the university from 1990 to 2008 — making her Loma Linda University’s longest-serving president. (Behrens was also president/CEO of Loma Linda University Adventist Health Sciences Center.)

Correctly answering this two-part question were randomly selected winners Robert Gutman, Valerie Vasquez and Myrna L. Hanna. Please email pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

There is a long, unbroken tradition of female top leadership in one of Loma Linda University’s schools, dating all the way back to the university’s 1905 founding. For this week’s trivia challenge, can you name the first dean of that school when it reorganized at the baccalaureate level in the late 1940s?

To enter, mail your answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, Feb. 10, for the chance to be a random winner. One answer per person. 

]]>
Thu, 05 Feb 2015 14:46:15 -0800
4264:20439 <![CDATA[Prostate cancer survivor shares his story]]> Advancement films ]]> A friend referred Hilton Cranston-Whittaker to Loma Linda University Health Cancer Center for proton treatment. 

Watch as he talks about his experience and hear his advice for men.

]]>
Thu, 05 Feb 2015 09:45:49 -0800
4264:20448 <![CDATA[Encouraging wholeness in the desert communities]]> Jiggs Gallagher The Humana Challenge golf tournament takes place every January in La Quinta to benefit Coachella Valley nonprofit organizations.

For the past three years, former President Bill Clinton and his Clinton Foundation have become involved with the event, sponsoring several health-related symposia and other programs to focus local and national attention on health and wellness. 

Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital had a booth at the golf tournament, and the Children’s Hospital Foundation sponsored a viewing area for friends of the organization.

Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health, visited the final day of play on Sunday, Jan. 25, to meet with LLU Children’s Hospital Coachella Valley Guild members and donors.

By chance, Hart was invited to meet with former President Clinton, and he spent 45 minutes privately with him, just before the tournament ended. 

Clinton’s daughter, Chelsea Clinton, was the featured guest at a related Clinton Foundation event in Palm Springs the same day — “Day of Action.” She and Palm Springs Mayor Steve Pougnet and invited dignitaries planted fruit trees at the James O. Jessie Desert Highland Unity Center.

Loma Linda University’s School of Public Health coordinated a health study of the community in summer of 2014, which led to the Clinton Foundation’s interest in drawing attention to the area’s health needs.

Juan Carlos Belliard, PhD, assistant vice president for community partnerships and diversity, and other community engagement staffers from Loma Linda University Health attended the ceremony.

]]>
Thu, 05 Feb 2015 12:37:49 -0800
4264:20442 <![CDATA[Memorial service for W. Augustus Cheatham ]]> Larry Kidder A memorial service for W. Augustus Cheatham, MSW, will take place Sunday, Feb. 15, at 11:00 a.m. in the Loma Linda University Church of Seventh-day Adventists, 11125 Campus Street, in Loma Linda.

The longest-serving vice president in the history of Loma Linda University Health passed away on Dec. 22, 2014, after a prolonged illness.

Cheatham joined Loma Linda University Health in 1985, helping to mold the public image of the organization in the wake of the Baby Fae case, and leading in the area of public affairs for the next 22 years.

Following a career that ranged from appointments in the U.S. government to serving as principal at Pine Forge Academy in Pennsylvania, Cheatham was asked by Loma Linda University Health to join the leadership team in 1985 at the recommendation of then General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists President Neal Wilson. Cheatham served as vice president for public affairs and development.

In 2007, Cheatham was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Subsequent surgery resulted in a difficult recovery and forced him to step down from his leadership role. At his retirement later that year, Cheatham was presented with the Distinguished University Service Award.

In succeeding years, he continued to serve as an inspiration to family and friends, spending precious time with his wife, children, grandchildren and many friends.

Cheatham is survived by his wife of 51 years, Ida Cecilia Anderson; son, William Lee III (Billy); daughters Marta and Nicole; grandchildren Justin, William Lee IV, Aaron, Steven Michael, Christian, Michaela and John Michael; and siblings William Jr., Anna, Oliver, Donald, Merle, Charles and Wendell.

 

]]>
Thu, 05 Feb 2015 10:11:08 -0800
4264:20437 <![CDATA[Registration open for annual Power of Inclusion 5K]]> Briana Pastorino Loma Linda University Health is hosting its 2nd annual Power of Inclusion 5K on Feb. 22 at 8:00 a.m. at Loma Linda University Medical Center East Campus, located at 25333 Barton Road, Loma Linda.

This year’s event will benefit the grant and scholarship fund of Loma Linda University Health PossAbilities — a free, non-profit community outreach program for individuals with permanent physical disabilities. These grants include adaptive equipment, accessibility grants, educational scholarships, social outings to community events, and more.

“We are very excited about our second annual Power of Inclusion 5K event,” says Pedro R. Payne, PhD, director of community outreach and patient experience, Loma Linda University Medical Center East Campus and LLUMC Surgical Hospital. “It is an opportunity to come together as a community and enjoy a healthy trot around Loma Linda. PossAbilities is all about inclusion so we hope everybody comes out to participate and have a good time with us!”

The theme of the 5K this year, “United We Stand,” corresponds with the 3rd annual Power of Inclusion conference, which will take place March 31 and April 1. This year’s conference will focus on veterans as vital components of the rich tapestry of talent at Loma Linda University Health. The purpose of Power of Inclusion is to educate, engage and energize staff, students, faculty and community members toward developing more inclusive cultural practices in all they do.

“Loma Linda University Health is blessed to be richly diverse, with individuals of all backgrounds, races, nationalities, career experiences and personal characteristics coming together to make a positive difference in the lives of others,” says Cari M. Dominguez, PhD, chief talent and diversity officer at Loma Linda University Health.

“We believe that diversity inspires creativity; inclusion unites individuals; and access provides opportunities. We celebrate and promote these three messages on our campus,” she adds. “We hope everyone in our community comes out to run, walk or roll in support of the power of inclusion.”

Registration for the 5K is $35 per person, and free for athletes with disabilities. Online registration is now open until February 20 at http://possabilities.gemininext.com/. Onsite event registration will open race day at 6:00 a.m. and close at 7:45 a.m.

All participants will receive official finish times, and finisher medals will be given to all participants.

Volunteers are also needed for the day of the event but must be at least 10 years old. To volunteer go to www.teampossabilities.org/POIvolunteers

]]>
Thu, 05 Feb 2015 09:36:41 -0800
4264:20444 <![CDATA[LLU professor recognized at Governor's Leadership Awards Program]]> Katie Freeland On Jan. 21, Nicole Gatto, PhD, MPH, associate professor at Loma Linda University School of Public Health, received the 2014 Governor’s Environmental and Economic Leadership Award (GEELA) in the sustainable communities category. This award program is considered to be one of California’s highest environmental honors, according to the California Environment Protection Agency website.

With a background in cardiovascular disease and epidemiology, Gatto became aware of the alarming rate of obesity among children and adults in the United States. She also became aware of the obesity epidemic’s relationship to socioeconomic factors and access to healthy foods and green spaces in local environments.

With more fast food, convenience and liquor stores in Los Angeles than grocery stores, Gatto decided to dedicate her personal and professional life to addressing the issue of obesity. She has also been involved in creating four school gardens (through the Los Angeles Sprouts program) and six community gardens (Milagro Allegro Community Garden and the Little Green Fingers Collaborative) in underserved communities of the greater Los Angeles region.

These gardens provide the communities they serve with access to fresh fruits and vegetables of high quality, something that only 18 percent of the grocery stores in Los Angeles offer. By starting at the local level, Gatto has shown that healthy lifestyles go hand in hand with the surrounding environment.

“I am deeply encouraged by the increasing recognition of the importance of growing one’s own food for both promoting individual health as well as the health of our environment,” says Gatto.

The annual GEELAs recognize individuals, organizations and businesses that have demonstrated exceptional leadership and made notable, voluntary contributions in conserving California’s resources, protecting and enhancing the environment, building public-private partnerships, and strengthening California’s economy.

]]>
Thu, 05 Feb 2015 10:13:03 -0800
4264:20457 <![CDATA[Notes from the President -- February]]> Dr. Richard Hart   February 2015
Our Pristine Campus

Last Thursday morning I saw a longstanding patient of mine in clinic. “Jim” is a retired FBI agent who has been coming to the Loma Linda University Center for Health Promotion for many years. “Doc,” he began, “every time I come to this campus, I am amazed at how pristine it always is. You must spend plenty to make that happen.”

Thanking him for the compliment, I reflected later on what makes a campus special, something we all take pride in. The Centennial Pathway, Mission Globe and Founders Plaza have certainly added to our campus beauty and interest. And the new Centennial Bridge, particularly when we get the north side landscaped, will further augment the charm of our campus. When the bridge is finished, we are going to rescore all the names and markers on the Centennial Pathway to make them more legible.

Gerhard Steudel

But Jim was referring to more than architecture and special features. He was reacting to the landscaping, the flowers, trees and grass. The cleanliness across campus. Even the pleasant attitude of students and staff as they walk the sidewalks and use the benches and tables.

Our landscaping department has been headed by Gerhard Steudel for over 30 years. He brings an old country touch to everything he does. This year he has the added goal of decreasing our water usage in light of the California drought. With that intention, we chose not to plant winter rye grass this fall. It is evident Gerhard and his team take pride in their work, adding touches of color and interest.

Another major partner in caring for our campus is an organization called Drug Alternative Program, or DAP. The program’s story really began 30 years ago when Cliff and Freddie Harris, coming out of their own personal struggles, met in Denver and after a brief romance, got married. As part of their own healing, they decided to help others with addictions, and 28 years ago established DAP, headquartered nearby in Grand Terrace, California. This unique program Weed wackingprovides a group home for men who need help turning their lives around after bottoming out with addictions of any type. And for many years, we have contracted with DAP to help with our grounds. Those around campus will have seen the organization’s vehicles and its personnel mowing lawns, trimming hedges and keeping things “pristine.”

We had the DAP folks come up to Oak Glen Fellowship at our home a few weeks ago and tell some of their stories. It is always tragic to hear of lives and families destroyed by alcohol and drugs, stories that are too often hidden all around us. Cliff and Freddie treat these men with two tried and true techniques — unconditional acceptance and tough love. This is evident in the relationships and amazing stories that emerge after the men come to DAP without resources and with little hope. Over some weeks and months, while mowing our lawns, they rebuild their hope Drug Alternative Program group photoand confidence to deal with this world. It doesn’t always stick, as is so often the case. But they come back and try again, always knowing DAP will provide a safe haven with the structure they need. So the next time you walk by someone on a mower or with a leaf blower, know they are partners in recovery, making their way through life like all of us do — one step at a time. Give them a smile and greeting, and you will both be blessed!

As I close, I want to thank all those who wrote back with condolences on the death of my father. Life is moving on as we adjust, and we greatly appreciate the stories and understanding so many of you shared.

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

Vision 2020: The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow 

 

Office of the President, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350

Copyright © 2015 by Loma Linda University

llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 05 Feb 2015 13:35:34 -0800
4264:20400 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- Ms. President]]> Heather Reifsnyder Three presidents of Loma Linda University have had the middle initial of T. Last week’s trivia challenge was to name those three individuals. Random winners Hermelinda Espinosa, Anita L. Lilly and Alana Symons, come on down; you have answered wisely. Email pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

Those presidents were Percy T. Magan, George T. Harding III and Godfrey T. Anderson. Did you know that all three men also had wearing spectacles in common?

Loma Linda University has had 14 presidents. Only one of them was a woman. This week’s two-part question is this: What was her name, and what years did she serve Loma Linda University as president?

Submit your answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, Feb. 3, for the chance to be a random winner. One response per person.

]]>
Thu, 29 Jan 2015 14:07:55 -0800
4264:20412 <![CDATA[Confidentiality disclaimer added to all emails]]> Administrative announcement Effective Jan. 26, a standardized confidentiality notice is being inserted automatically into all outbound email messages. This mitigates the risk that confidential information may be forwarded to an unauthorized third party. The disclaimer language will appear only once at the bottom of an email or thread to avoid duplication.

Individuals should review their signature line in Outlook and remove any existing confidentiality disclaimer language.

Contact the help desk with any questions regarding this change or for assistance removing a previously existing disclaimer.

Loma Linda University help desk: ext. 48611
LLU Medical Center help desk: ext. 48889

]]>
Thu, 29 Jan 2015 14:20:44 -0800
4264:20408 <![CDATA[Newspaper features alumnus doctor's Ebola experience]]> The Press-Enterprise published an article this week about James Appel, MD, a 2000 alumnus of Loma Linda University School of Medicine.

Appel spent about five weeks working in Liberia at Cooper Adventist Hospital during the height of the Ebola crisis. He shared his story recently with students at California State University San Bernardino.

Read the article: www.pe.com/articles/appel-758919-ebola-hospital.html

]]>
Thu, 29 Jan 2015 14:16:31 -0800
4264:20405 <![CDATA[Construction update]]> Heather Reifsnyder Several construction projects at Loma Linda University Health are soon finishing, and others are in the works. Here are some updates.

Business Center

The Business Center (home of the Councilors Student Pavilion and the Welcome Center) has been undergoing an exterior renovation since late October to make the south end of the building match the north. Work includes replacing windows, updating trim, rebuilding some of the sidewalks, and adding planters.

The project is scheduled for completion by the end of March.

Pipeline between LLU Power Plant and thermal-energy storage tank

Since August, workers have been constructing a new pipeline between the Power Plant and the thermal-energy storage tank. The new pipeline has a 30-inch diameter. This has involved opening trenches along Anderson Street and installing new chilled water pipes between the two facilities.

The first two phases of this have been closed, and the third section that remains open by the Power Plant and School of Dentistry should be completed by the middle of February.

This project will allow chilled water generated at night at the Chiller Plant to be stored in the thermal-energy storage tank and circulated during the day to help cool campus buildings. The next phase is to expand the chiller system for cooling water. Administration is currently reviewing construction plans for that. 

Water wells

Loma Linda University Health has been increasing self-reliance by creating new water wells, the fourth of which has been drilled and is awaiting its custom-made pipe and other equipment. Located near the San Timoteo wash and Anderson Street, the new well should be bringing up water by the end of March. 

LLU Medical Center outpatient pharmacy

The outpatient pharmacy at Loma Linda University Medical Center is being relocated to the lobby. Construction at the new location is briefly on hold for seismic retrofitting in the lobby, but the pharmacy is expected to be completed in mid 2015.

LLU Medical Center lobby seismic retrofit

The current phase of retrofitting the lobby to increase its earthquake capacity began in November 2014. Construction crews are working as quickly as they can while also trying to minimize noise disturbance. The work in the lobby should finish in early summer, with work continuing on the second floor through midsummer.

New patient parking garage

In March, work will begin on a new patient parking garage in preparation for building the new hospital. This new garage will be located at the corner of Barton Road and Campus Street. Completion is scheduled for March of 2016.  The new hospital, slated to open in 2020, will be located in the current patient parking lot east of the existing Medical Center and Children’s Hospital. 

]]>
Thu, 29 Jan 2015 14:14:33 -0800
4264:20410 <![CDATA[Leadership changes announced]]> Administrative announcement This week, Loma Linda University Health announced a number of changes in leadership.

Lyndon Edwards, MBA, MHS, is being promoted to senior vice president for East Campus, the newly re-named Surgical Hospital, Highland Springs Medical Plaza and the Behavioral Medicine Center. This is a promotion with the addition of the Behavioral Medicine Center to Edwards’ portfolio. His experience with mental health care in previous positions in Florida has prepared him well for this new role. 

Ed Field, MBA, has been appointed vice president for the Behavioral Medicine Center. He has served most recently as controller for Behavioral Medicine Center, with a history of 18 years at that facility.

Roger Hadley, MD, was appointed chief medical officer over all six hospitals of Loma Linda University Health. He will hold this administrative position in addition to his longtime roles as dean of the School of Medicine and executive vice president for medical affairs at Loma Linda University Health.

Angela Lalas, MBA, has been appointed senior vice president of finance. In her new role, she will have direct oversight over hospital finance operations for the six hospitals of Loma Linda University Health, and she will provide oversight and coordination for decision support, including financial planning, analysis and reporting for Loma Linda University Medical Center and affiliates, LLU and LLUSS. 

Rod Neal, MBA, will have his scope of responsibility as senior vice president of finance for LLU and Loma Linda University Adventist Health Sciences Center expanded to include direct oversight over Foundation administration, which includes investment administration, trust administration, Foundation accounting and Foundation retail and real estate operations, as well as certain LLU Shared Services departments under real estate management, including transportation, parking, fleet and rideshare services. 

Rhodes (Dusty) Rigsby, MD, will become vice president for transitional care at LLU Medical Center. This is a new position; he is currently responsible for home care. In his new role, he will actively manage patient flow and length of stay. Rigsby has had extensive experience in case management over his more than 20 years at Loma Linda University Health. He is also the mayor of Loma Linda.

Jim Seager has been appointed vice president for finance at Loma Linda University Health and will provide oversight over technical finance areas, including accounting, financing and tax for LLU Medical Center and LLU Shared Services. 

Trevor G. Wright, MHA, will assume the position of senior vice president for the adult hospital. He comes to Loma Linda from Shawnee Mission Health in Overland Park, Kansas, where he has served as senior vice president/chief operating officer since 2011. Wright’s outstanding record of performance in that position includes improving Shawnee Mission’s financial and patient care metrics across the board. He served in prior positions at Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center in Torrance, California; the Studer Group (medical consultants) of Gulf Breeze, Florida; Paradise Valley Hospital, National City, California; and Ukiah Valley Medical Center, Ukiah, California. He will begin his role at LLU Medical Center in 30 to 40 days.

]]>
Thu, 29 Jan 2015 14:19:10 -0800
4264:20402 <![CDATA[Open house: where career dreams are made]]> Heather Reifsnyder Looking back, professionals often remember the moment their dreams for a future career were solidified. For hundreds of individuals at the beginning of professional life, their moment may have come on Jan. 25 when they attended Loma Linda University’s 10th annual open house.

Watch a video of the day here.  

The approximate 1,800 guests — potential students and their families — arrived at the Centennial Complex, toured the Medical Simulation Center and campus and had the option to attend financial aid seminars.

Awaiting them next was a helicopter landing on the campus mall. The chopper was a Mercy Air medical transporter, and riding in on it was Roger Hadley, MD, dean of the School of Medicine.

After guests checked out the helicopter and learned about emergency air service, they went into Loma Linda University Church to hear inspirational presentations from Dean Hadley as well as Distinguished Professor Leonard Bailey, MD, from the School of Medicine. Bailey pioneered infant heart transplantation.

He spoke of his professional journey and about finding one’s destiny, while Hadley talked about changes in health care education and the importance of all health care disciplines working together. 

Lunch and a K-9 security demonstration followed, after which the guests dispersed to learn about their career interests. Loma Linda University offers more than 200 programs, which were all represented through dozens of sessions. Prospective students could select two sessions to learn about health care disciplines of interest to them.

About 100 current LLU students volunteered for the day. According to Stephanie Larsen, planner of the open house, “Every year, some volunteers say, ‘I was a prospective student last year, and now I’m volunteering because it’s such a great day.’”

She adds, “It's a day where students can get a true sense of Loma Linda University and what they can expect as a student. It makes many feel that ‘This is where I want to be.’”

]]>
Thu, 29 Jan 2015 14:11:58 -0800
4264:20285 <![CDATA[School of Public Health receives $1.158 million award]]> Loma Linda University School of Public Health has received a $1.158 million award from the County of San Bernardino to implement an 18-month initiative to improve health equity by increasing access to health care.

The project, titled “San Bernardino County MediCal Outreach, Retention, and Enrollment”(SBC-MORE for short), was developed and submitted by Sherma Charlemagne-Badal, PhD, assistant professor at Loma Linda University School of Public Health, who will serve as principal investigator/project director, and Edward McField, PhD, associate professor at LLU School of Public Health, who will serve as co-investigator/project associate director.

On Jan. 6, the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors approved the award, which aims to improve health equity in the region by increasing access to health care among underserved and low-enrollment populations.

The target population includes persons with mental health disorder needs, persons with substance use disorder needs, individuals who are homeless, young men of color, families with mixed immigration status, persons with limited English proficiency and individuals who are in county jail, in state prison, on state parole, on county probation, or under post-release community supervision.

“We can all agree that San Bernardino County can be ‘MORE,’ and with this in mind, we have selected a name and a corresponding acronym which aptly conveys our expectations for our county,” says Charlemagne-Badal, who also serves as special advisor for health equity at LLU School of Public Health.

Students and faculty will actively engage the community based on principles of community-based participatory research while partnering with local community organizations such as 2-1-1 United Way, the African American Health Coalition, Congregations Organized for Prophetic Engagement and El Sol Neighborhood Educational Center.

McField shares that “while the focus is on outreach and enrollment efforts, the project will explore individual-level factors as well as systems or policy-level factors that influence behaviors associated with health choices, including factors influencing decision to enroll into health plans — an increasingly critical issue particularly in the context of the Affordable Care Act.”

Another unique feature is the collaboration with a historical coalition of San Bernardino County departments and agencies, including the Department of Public Health, Department of Behavioral Health, Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, Probation Department, Sheriff’s Department and Transitional Assistance Department.

SBC-MORE was developed in the context of the reorganization of LLU School of Public Health into multi-disciplinary academic centers focused on regional health equity. Charlemagne-Badal and McField are affiliated with the Center for Leadership in Health Systems, but SBC-MORE was designed to involve at least two School of Public Health centers, as Samuel Soret, PhD, executive director of the school’s Center for Community Resilience, will have a role for program evaluation. 

“We are very proud of the outstanding team and the equally outstanding proposal,” says Anthony J. Zuccarelli, PhD, associate vice president for research affairs.

SBC-MORE stems from the commitment of Loma Linda University Health to build sustainable community partnerships and actively promote health and wellness.

]]>
Thu, 22 Jan 2015 14:04:43 -0800
4264:20269 <![CDATA[Campus vending machines to get wholeness makeover]]> Larry Kidder It’s been more than a year in the planning: Loma Linda University Health will be changing its vending machines to reflect the emphasis on wholeness and health, embodied in the "Live It" campaign.

“In our commitment to whole health and well-being,” says Daniel Fontoura, MBA, vice president for wholeness, “we have selected a vendor specializing in healthy snacks and beverages.”

Over the past year, a cross-section of Loma Linda University Health nutrition experts and leaders have taken part in creating dietary criteria, listening to presentations by vendors, sampling their products, and ultimately recommending a single vendor for the entire organization.

“From late January to March, we will be transitioning,” explains Fontoura. “The vendor already serves several Loma Linda University Health sites, and going to a single vendor will provide better consistency and lower pricing of healthy vended products for the campus.”

Fontoura continues, “We know these are small changes, but are hopefully ones that will make it easier for you to ‘Live It’ when it comes to your journey of health.”

Additional information on these changes will be shared as they occur throughout the coming year.

]]>
Thu, 22 Jan 2015 10:48:13 -0800
4264:20276 <![CDATA[Laura Ling inspires audience of 1,000 at annual Women's Conference]]> Briana Pastorino American journalist Laura Ling gave an empowering speech to 1,000 vibrant women from the Inland Empire and beyond at Loma Linda University Health’s 7th annual Women’s Conference on Jan. 16 at the Ontario Convention Center.

 In an interview prior to her keynote speech, Ling admitted, “It’s easy to put health and wellness secondary. [The Women’s Conference] is a necessary and important event.” A wife and mother of two, Ling stated, “It’s hard, but it’s important to make the time for you.”

No stranger to Loma Linda University Health, she added, “I’m in awe of the work Loma Linda does here and around the world. I’m proud and privileged to be a part of the event.”

During her speech, Ling recalled moments from when she was held captive in North Korea for 140 days in 2009. Ling didn’t ever imagine she would survive.

“My time in captivity was terrifying, but I found glimmers of humanity around me that gave me hope,” she said — things as simple as a butterfly outside or conversation with a female guard. Ling stated that she had a lot of time to reflect on her life, and once freed, her experiences gave her the strength to follow her passion “to shed light on the issues in the world that need attention.”

In closing, Ling left the audience with an empowering message, “Cherish the freedoms you have and be a strong voice to those who need one.”

After receiving a standing ovation, Ling later signed copies of her memoir, “Somewhere Inside: One Sister’s Captivity in North Korea and the Other’s Fight to Bring Her Home,” which she penned with her sister, Lisa.

Also providing some words of wisdom to attendees was K-FROG Radio’s Heather Froglear, who hosted the event for the seventh consecutive year. She said, “Magic can happen when you get a group of passionate, inspiring women together.”

This sold-out event — themed “Ready. Set. Go Green. Think Lean.” — was designed for women of all ages seeking to be more proactive about their health and overall wholeness. Throughout the day women were treated to free massages, beauty touchups, health information and screenings, breakout sessions on important topics related to health, fitness and style, and an afternoon keynote speech from Chef Marla Cohen.

First time conference attendee Courtney Haas experienced the day with a group of coworkers and said the event went above and beyond her expectations. “For everything from the speakers, venue, meals, pampering room and health screenings to the breakout sessions, the planning behind this event was phenomenal.”

A writer herself, Haas said she was able to relate to Ling’s way of thinking. “I think it was truly inspiring to hear her story and see how she has been able to continue working and have a family even after facing death on a daily basis during her time as a prisoner in North Korea.”

]]>
Thu, 22 Jan 2015 11:22:50 -0800
4264:20292 <![CDATA[Interview with Laura Ling]]> Advancement films ]]> Arrested and held captive in North Korea for 140 days in 2009, journalist Laura Ling shared her story of finding strength in hardship at last week’s Women’s Conference. Be inspired as she describes her incredible journey and the power of women to improve their lives in this video interview. 

]]>
Thu, 22 Jan 2015 14:51:48 -0800
4264:20287 <![CDATA[Caregivers inspired at Spiritual Life and Wholeness Conference]]> Nancy Yuen What does it mean for doctors, nurses and health care providers to be truly present? How can stories told by both patients and practitioners lead to deeper understanding, healing and wholeness?

Faculty, staff, students and members of the community attended the 7th Annual Spiritual Life and Wholeness Conference at Loma Linda University Health. The conference, held Jan. 16-17, encouraged participants to explore developments in the teaching and practice of whole person care.

Loma Linda University Health has embraced wholeness from its beginning in 1905. As they spoke about topics including “Mind, body, medicine and the human spirit” and “Reflection, resilience and humanism: bringing our whole person to whole person care,” the invited speakers mentioned various aspects of wholeness that have been researched and advocated by Loma Linda University Health.

Presenters included keynote speaker Thomas Hutchinson, MB, BCh, BAO, director, McGill University programs in whole person care and editor of the book “Whole Person Care;” Gregory Fricchione, MD, director of the psychiatry and medicine divisions and of the international psychiatry division, Massachusetts General Hospital; and Hedy S. Wald, PhD, clinical associate professor of family medicine, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University.

During the two-day event, 20 additional speakers from numerous entities throughout Loma Linda University Health also shared developments on campus in the area of whole person care. The conference was sponsored by the Center for Spiritual Life and Wholeness, with internationally known speakers to explore practical ways of integrating spirituality in the health care setting.

 “This year’s conference,” says Carla Gober-Park, PhD, MS, MPH, director, Center for Spiritual Life and Wholeness, “examined whole person care from a wholistic, 360-degree perspective, highlighting and actively strategizing whole person care across the Loma Linda University Health campus.”

Gober-Park highlighted research she is leading at the center in relation to the newly developed CLEAR (connect, listen, explore, acknowledge and respond) whole person care model and the data from the SOUL underlying life spiritual history that is currently integrated into the Loma Linda University Health electronic medical record. “SOUL” is the acronym for sources of strength, outlook on religion and beliefs, underlying life events and links to care.

According to Kris Lozano, center manager, the Spiritual Life and Wholeness Conference began in 2008 and was originally called the Spiritual Care Workshop.

“From the beginning,” she says, “the goal of the conference was to mentor primarily Loma Linda University Health employees, faculty and students for the purposes of carrying out whole person care on the campus, but it is extended to others. Through the years many community members have joined us because of their interest in topics such as spirituality, forgiveness, witness in health care and whole person care.

“Through this conference people come together to celebrate the work they have been doing all year,” she says. “They are also equipped for further work and encouraged to move what they have done into publication. Finally, it is a time to be inspired.”

 

 

]]>
Thu, 22 Jan 2015 14:07:25 -0800
4264:20283 <![CDATA[Magazine publishes prayers from three leaders at Loma Linda University Health]]> For each day from Jan. 7–17, the Adventist Review — a leading magazine of the Seventh-day Adventist Church since 1849 — published prayers for the church in 2015 from 50 well-known Adventists.

Included in that group were three individuals from Loma Linda University Health: Carla-Gober Park, PhD, MS, MPH, director of the Center for Spiritual Life and Wholeness; Myrna Hanna, assistant vice president for administrative affairs and alumni & donor relations; and Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president.

Click on their names to see the prayers:

Carla Gober-Park
Myrna Hanna
Richard Hart 

All 50 prayers can be read at www.adventistreview.org/ten-days.

]]>
Thu, 22 Jan 2015 13:09:09 -0800
4264:20281 <![CDATA[President Hart named one of 15 to watch in 2015]]> The Press-Enterprise’s recent article “INLAND: 15 people to watch in 2015” featured Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health.

The reason cited? The article says:

“Hart is the force behind the planned Loma Linda University Health – San Bernardino development, which will house a comprehensive medical clinic in the city’s downtown, but also offer health care certificate programs for high school students and adults. Expected to open in 2016, the project aims to give the city more skilled workers and quality health care.”

Loma Linda University Health broke ground for the project on Dec. 10, 2014.

Hart notes that the project will help support the San Bernardino economy and promote health and wholeness in the community for years to come.

“Studies of the infrastructure of San Bernardino have found that there are two large unmet needs in this community,” Hart explained. “The first is a lack of skilled workers. The second is a lack of quality health care. Our new project will help address both of those sectors of the economy by providing career education and health care for area residents as well as creating employment opportunities.”

Read more about Loma Linda University Health – San Bernardino at http://myllu.llu.edu/newsoftheweek/story/?id=19835.

]]>
Thu, 22 Jan 2015 11:37:19 -0800
4264:20271 <![CDATA[Catch 'Life on the Line' on PBS]]> Advancement films The local PBS affiliate KVCR is re-airing "Life on the Line," Loma Linda University Health’s national television show, every Wednesday at 9:30 p.m. through Feb. 11. The episode “Baby Blue" will air next week. Be transported to Egypt where each year 20,000 children are diagnosed with congenital heart disease. Watch as doctors from opposite sides of the globe work together to save thousands of cyanotic children who are waiting in a line that could be longer than their lifetimes.  

View the trailer for “Baby Blue”: 

For KVCR channel information, please visit http://bit.ly/1yiXpDx.

Episode lineup:

Jan. 28 – Episode 4: "Baby Blue"
Feb. 4 – Episode 5: "Armed for the Challenge"
Feb. 11 – Episode 6: "Anchoring Hope"

 

 

 

]]>
Thu, 22 Jan 2015 10:58:10 -0800
4264:20288 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- Mr. T]]> Heather Reifsnyder The only president of Loma Linda University who served more than one term was Walter E. Macpherson, MD, who led the organization at two separate times (1942–1948 and 1951–1954).

Correctly fulfilling last week’s challenge to identify the years of his second term were random winners Melissa Toma, Vanessa Noriega, and Michelle Lombardino. Please email pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

Keeping with the presidential theme for this week’s trivia contest, we turn to three presidents of Loma Linda University who each had the middle initial of T.

For a chance to win, name those three presidents. Send your answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, Jan. 27, for the chance to be a random winner.

]]>
Thu, 22 Jan 2015 14:07:56 -0800
4264:20188 <![CDATA['Blessed are the ... ']]> Heather Reifsnyder Annual Week of Renewal is concluding at Loma Linda University Health, but the opportunity to attend meaningful services on campus is not. Each Wednesday from 11–11:50 a.m., a chapel service — called University@Worship — takes place in the Loma Linda University Church.

The services for the remainder of winter quarter are centered around God’s kingdom on earth and the attributes of dwellers of that kingdom.

“We believe that there are implications for those who accept Jesus’ invitation to live in the kingdom,” says Terry Swenson, DMin, LLU chaplain. “The Kingdom of Heaven is present among us now, evident in the lives of all those who accept Jesus' invitation to ‘Follow me.’” 

Swenson continues, “This quarter we will unpack the statements recorded in Matthew 5, which may be considered a manifesto for life in God’s kingdom here on earth. These statements, also referred to as the Beatitudes, were a dramatic contrast to the way of life of Jesus’ hearers in the Ancient Near East, and they will prove to be as challenging for those of us who live in this postmodern age.”

The schedule and more information are below; services are open to anyone from across the Loma Linda University Health entities.

"The weekly services are a great opportunity to unify us as one family under God's care," says Associate Chaplain Dilys Brooks, MDiv.

The services are also live-streamed at llu.edu/uw1.

Jan. 21
Terry Swenson
“Blessed are the poor”

Jan. 28
Dany Hernandez
“Blessed are the mournful” 

Feb. 4
Roy Ice
“Blessed are the meek” 

Feb. 11
Raewyn Hankins
“Blessed are the hungry” 

Feb. 18
Amy Wolf and Mel Bersaba
“Blessed are the merciful” 

Feb. 25
Dilys Brooks
“Blessed are the pure” 

March 4
Chris Oberg
“Blessed are the peacemakers” 

March 11
Zane Yi
“Blessed are the persecuted”

]]>
Thu, 15 Jan 2015 14:29:43 -0800
4264:20199 <![CDATA[Photo contest winners announced]]> The department of employee spiritual care has produced an annual set of prayer cards for the past 12 years. To be used in patient care, each has a photo taken by an employee on one side and an encouraging verse of scripture on the back. There is also a note that says “I prayed for you today and asked God to bless you.”

The winners of the 2014 contest, chosen from hundreds of submissions, are:

First place:  Sonjib Bayen
Second place:  Carlene Drake
Third place: Cyndee Pelton                     

Eleven additional photos were given honorable mention and will also appear on cards. The photographers are Jeremy Ames, Sonjib Bayen, DJ Clemons, Carlene Drake, Cyndee Pelton, Denise Petersen, Marjorie Reyno and Nancy Wolfe.

“We so appreciate each person who submitted pictures,” says Kathy McMillan, director, employee spiritual care, LLU Medical Center. “What a joy to see each entry. The judges had a difficult task this year. Congratulations to each of the winners.”

All the winning photos are viewable here on VIP, along with photos from the past five years. The top-three photos are also above.

The new prayer cards will be available in February.

]]>
Thu, 15 Jan 2015 15:00:15 -0800
4264:20193 <![CDATA[Music at the Market concert series comes to Loma Linda University Health]]> Nancy Blaire Starting Tuesday, Jan. 20, enjoy a new concert series, Music at the Market, featuring local and student musicians. Music at the Market will be turning up the beat every first and third Tuesday of the month from 5–7:30 p.m. at Loma Linda Farmer’s Market. 

Market night is located at the campus plaza on the corner of Anderson and Mound Streets in front of the Councilors Student Pavilion. Tuesday, local musicians Elizabeth Chan, Christian Liang and Zerash Justin, among others, are featured.

Music at the Market provides student and local musicians with the opportunity to share their talents with the Loma Linda University Health campus and the community. A great event for the whole family, the market is the place to enjoy new, healthful and delicious market night eats; explore local fare; or choose from locally grown farm-fresh fruits and vegetables.

Interested in getting involved with Music at the Market? Email Nancy Blaire at nblaire@llu.edu, or call 909-558-4000, ext. 48171, to learn more about bringing your talent to the stage.

Music at the Market is presented by Loma Linda University Health Wholeness Institute, Institute for Community Partnerships, Campus Store and Printing Services, in partnership with the Loma Linda Chamber of Commerce.

]]>
Thu, 15 Jan 2015 14:46:19 -0800
4264:20191 <![CDATA[Starting Monday: parking changes to Shepardson lot]]> Beginning Jan. 19, the Shepardson parking lot will require a badge for entry. Anyone with an active Loma Linda University Health badge will have access.

The Shepardson lot is located to the east of the Drayson Center at the corner of Shepardson Drive and Benton Street.

Please ensure that your parking account is current as unregistered/expired vehicles may be subject to citation.

If you are in need of special event parking. please contact the department of parking and traffic at 909-651-3025.

]]>
Red = Veterans Affairs parking only ]]> Thu, 15 Jan 2015 14:39:46 -0800
4264:20168 <![CDATA[CNN's chief medical correspondent visits campus]]> Nancy Yuen Sanjay Gupta, MD, chief medical correspondent for CNN, visited Loma Linda University Health on Jan. 14. During Gupta’s visit, Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH, president, Loma Linda University Health, shared with Gupta his thoughts about wholeness and how living a whole life contributes to healthy aging and longevity.

The interview took place under a crystal blue sky in front of the “This is the Very Place” sculpture, which commemorates the moment when Ellen White, the institution’s founder, first visited Loma Linda and recognized that she had seen this very setting in a vision several years before. She had selected Loma Linda for a daring new type of health care institution and professional training center, in direct contrast to the practices of the day.

Gupta, a practicing neurosurgeon, plays an integral role in CNN’s reporting on health and medical news. While on campus he also interviewed Gary E. Fraser, MD, PhD, principal investigator, Adventist Health Study and Ellsworth Wareham, MD, who practiced cardiothoracic surgery until he was 95 years old. Wareham, who graduated from the Loma Linda University School of Medicine in 1942, just celebrated his 100th birthday.

]]>
Thu, 15 Jan 2015 11:23:07 -0800
4264:20190 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- Mr. President]]> Heather Reifsnyder Last week’s trivia challenge was a two-parter: give the name and title of the man who traveled to Washington, DC, during World War II to secure Loma Linda University’s continued authority to choose its own medical students. The U.S. government, you see, had assumed the wartime right to select the student bodies for the nation’s medical schools.

This successful mission was conducted by Walter E. Macpherson, MD, president of the College of Medical Evangelists (as LLU was then called). Patricia Larios-Gil, Larry Beeson, and Gerald Grube, you are the three winners of this challenge. Please email pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

Macpherson actually served two terms as president of Loma Linda University, the first being from 1942–48. What were the years of his second term? That is this week’s challenge. Please email the correct answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, Jan. 20, for the chance to be a random winner. One answer per person. 

]]>
Thu, 15 Jan 2015 14:31:37 -0800
4264:20065 <![CDATA[Notes from the President]]> Dr. Richard Hart   January 2015
The Cycle of Life

My Dad died a week before Christmas.name of picture Lewis Hart was 93 and a half, and he had lived a full and satisfying life. Born and raised, along with four brothers, on a homestead farm in northern Idaho, he was typical of generations of Loma Linda University alumni who came from the fields and farms of this country to train for service to the world. After graduation, they chaired their church and school boards, gave liberally to their favorite causes, and became the foundation of many local communities. They started mission hospitals — in fact, nearly two new hospitals every year during the first half of the 1900s.

Dad’s parents struggled to survive and feed the family during those early years living on the side of Moscow Mountain. Eking out a living from the land and forest around them, they all learned hard work, stretching what little they had, and often going without. When Dad told me how my Grandpa cut and split a load of firewood, then hauled it by sleigh into town to trade for a pair of shoes for one of his boys, it made me both humble and proud. They determined to send each son off to Yakima Valley Academy, miles from home, believing that a Christian education was worth the sacrifice. All had successful careers, with three of the five — Walter, Lewis and Elmer — graduating from Loma Linda University School of Medicine.

Dad contracted polio while in academy in the late 1930s and had to drop out of school for a year to recover. He returned and completed two years of studies in one to graduate with his class. Then off to Walla Walla University, where he supported himself working in the bakery, majored in math, and met a young lass from Fallon, Nevada, by the name of Ruth Swanson. Married after graduation, they moved to Loveland, Colorado, where they taught at Campion Academy for two years before coming to Loma Linda University to take medicine. It was there, while they lived in a remodeled garage, that I was born, joining my older brother Ken to make the family complete. Dad graduated in 1949 (his class photo is below).

Many people think I grew up in the mission field, but not so. Dad returned to the northwest, practicing most of those early years near his birthplace, outside the little town of Troy, Idaho. Together with his partner, Omer Drury, LLU School of Medicine class of 1948, he helped anchor our little 65-member church and its 25-student, two-room school — Big Meadow Church School — what I now remember as the best child incubator in the world. Carefree times wandering the woods, catching and taming wild pets, picking fruit, bucking hay bales, driving combines, and all the other activities of growing farm boys filled my days.

When Ken and I were both studying medicine at Loma Linda University years later, Dad decided it was time for specialty training, as his polio-stricken legs were starting to limit his activities. As a “general practitioner,” he already knew how to do more than I ever would. But he came back to Loma Linda, took anesthesiology, and then we all headed to Africa over the course of three years — Mom and Dad to Malawi, Ken and his wife, Dee, to Zambia, and my wife, Judy, and I to Tanzania. Those were good years, with us occasionally meeting in the game parks and spending time together. Judy and I left Africa first, going to Johns Hopkins University name of pictureto complete my studies, followed in a few years by Mom and Dad, who were then working in Nairobi. Ken and Dee served the longest, spending 15 years in Zambia, Tanzania, and Kenya. We all finally ended up back at Loma Linda, where Dad joined the department of anesthesiology; Ken joined SAC Health System as medical director; Dee joined the School of Nursing faculty; I taught in the School of Public Health; and Judy raised our kids before returning to clinic nursing.

The remarkable thing about our family story is how similar it is to so many of our LLU graduates. They often came from small schools and rural backgrounds, though that is gradually changing now. They arrived with a passion for service, driven by an innate sense that we are all expected to give back, to serve others in a way that benefits the world. My sense is that this does not come from a feeling of guilt or duty. They find joy in pursuing a dream that they know will bring completeness to their own lives. They find partners who share that commitment, and then they go — to communities small and large, to a growing diversity of employment options, taking up that mission of helping others. I would like to think Loma Linda adds to that vision and commitment, but I often wonder if we aren’t just blessed with a long lineage of students and alumni who seek out a place that shares their own values. However it happens, we are blessed and nurtured by their presence and the privilege of watching each one of them go out to seek her or his own destiny.

With this foundation, it was no surprise to many of us that LLU grads placed first in the country recently in a survey asking about finding meaning in their careers. When you are called to a cause bigger than yourself, it is only natural to feel fulfilled, because you believe you are making the world a better place. Those grads answering this survey were not my Dad’s generation, but those much younger, those who still believe they are called to care and serve.

While it is always hard to say goodbye, Dad was ready and looked forward to a well-earned rest. He never wavered in his commitment to his family, his church, and his God. They were core to who he was, and while he sometimes wondered about details, he was certainly not about to abort his basic belief that they were central to life. Mom and her dog, Spooky, are staying with us for now while we determine the best long-term plans. And the cycle of life is complete once more. I just pray that my generation, and those coming after, will never forget this commitment to others, and continue to share in the joy of service.

Good night, Dad. Rest well. See you in the morning.

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

 

Office of the President, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350

Copyright © 2015 by Loma Linda University

llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 08 Jan 2015 14:59:27 -0800
4264:20058 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- Dale Gentry, World War II, and the College of Medical Evangelists]]> Heather Reifsnyder Last week’s trivia challenge posed this question: What unique campus structure at Loma Linda University Health had its groundbreaking in 1966?

The building is no longer on campus, but its shiny roof can now be seen among the orange groves of Loma Linda at the future site of the Loma Linda Family Community Center, which is an outreach of the Loma Linda Spanish Church.

“It is good to see the old rooftop shining again,” said trivia entrant Lisa Stuck. Another entrant, Nick Frantz, described it as “kind of like a giant golf ball,” while Anuradha Diekmann called it “Loma Linda’s Epcot Center.” In geometric terms, it had a geodesic rooftop, as noted by entrants Delia Sanchez, Robert Meyrahn, Carolyn Marovitch, and Larry Beeson.

The building was the Dale Gentry Gymnasium, which was torn down in 2005–06 to make way for the Centennial Complex. The three random winners correctly naming the building are Valerie Downs, Jim Lewis, and Jennifer Rodriguez. Winners, please email pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days. 

Opened in 1968, the gymnasium was named after entrepreneur and businessman Dale Gentry, who donated the California Hotel in San Bernardino to Loma Linda University, the sale of which helped make the new gymnasium possible. “He was a poor farm boy who made it rich,” writes Richard Schaefer, historian for Loma Linda University Health.  

Built in 1926, the storied California Hotel hosted celebrities and sports teams through the years, among many other guests, according to Schaefer. General George Patton took over the California Hotel as an Army headquarters immediately after the Dec. 7, 1941, bombing of Pearl Harbor. 

World War II also deeply affected the College of Medical Evangelists (CME), as Loma Linda University was then called. Among the ways was that the military assumed the right to select students for medical schools. This posed a concern for CME, which wanted to continue training students who aligned with its Christian, mission-oriented approach to healing. What happened next is described in this passage from “The Impossible Dream: Railway to the Moon” by Ken McFarland, which tells the story of Loma Linda University Health’s first 100 years.

This week’s trivia challenge is to fill in the name and title of the man sent to Washington, DC, to solve this problem for CME. 

“Faced with this complication, the CME Board of Trustees sent ____________________ to Washington, D.C. And evidence seems convincing that divine providence had already anticipated this emergency and had been preparing the way to meet it. In Washington, ____________________’s first stop was to visit with one of his own CME classmates – Walter S. Jensen, MD (class of 1924), who now served as a colonel in the U.S. Air Corps. Dr. Jensen could readily understand CME’s plight, but he did not have the authority to mold military policies relating to medical schools. Nonetheless, he could open doors for ____________________, and arranged for [him] to see Colonel F.M. Fitz in the Surgeon General’s office. Colonel Fitz was very receptive to ____________________’s appeal and said, “I will refer you to Colonel White, who is in charge of drafting plans for assignments to medical schools." At last, ____________________had reached the man who did have the authority to get things done on CME’s behalf.

What happened next, some might see as simple coincidence. Those familiar with the repeated evidence of divine involvement through the years in time of crisis at Loma Linda would see it as yet another such providential intervention.

As ____________________ presented CME’s dilemma to Colonel White, a solider entered his office, saluted, and delivered a sealed envelope to the colonel. Colonel White returned the soldier’s salute, accepted the envelope, and dismissed the courier. Momentarily, he interrupted his conversation with ____________________ to open the envelope, and discovered to his surprise and delight that he had just been promoted to the rank of brigadier general.

____________________ remained convinced after that meeting that the now General White’s elation at that moment spilled over into the matter under discussion and prompted from him a spontaneous promise: “I will keep you folks in mind.” And that, he did. CME would become the only school of medicine in America allowed to choose its own students, starting with Seventh-day Adventists about to be assigned to other schools.

Please email the missing name and his title at CME to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, Jan. 13, for the chance to be a random winner. One answer per person. Good luck!

]]>
Thu, 08 Jan 2015 14:44:24 -0800
4264:20062 <![CDATA[Video: The health care impact of Loma Linda University Health - San Bernardino]]> Advancement films ]]> Thu, 08 Jan 2015 14:56:50 -0800 4264:20054 <![CDATA[Now available: fire extinguisher training schedule ]]> Fire extinguisher training is a two-part safety course required for all employees. The first part is included in the annual BLUE Book training.

The second, hands-on portion of the training must be completed every three years. Employees who delay in completing this portion may see effects in their annual performance evaluation. 

To view the 2015 schedule for the hands-on training, visit the Organization-Wide Learning (OWL) portal here.

For more information, email ehs@llu.edu or call the department of environmental health and safety at ext. 14019.

]]>
Thu, 08 Jan 2015 14:39:34 -0800
4264:20056 <![CDATA[Research grant recipients announced]]> The Loma Linda University Health office of research affairs is pleased to announce the latest GRASP (Grants for Research and School Partnerships) awards. Each project will receive $75,000 over 24 months, fulfilling the goal of encouraging collaborative research between researchers across the organization.

“We expect that their studies are successful, that their results will appear in peer-reviewed publications, and that it will contribute to applications for extramural funding,” says Anthony Zuccarelli, PhD, associate vice president for research affairs.

The winning investigators and projects are: 

Christopher Wilson and Traci Marin: “AMPK epigenetically modulates respiratory pattern response to oxidative stress.”
Xiangpeng Yuan and Wei-Xing Shi: “iPSCs as stem-cell therapy for neonatal brain ischemia”
 
Grace Lee and Nicole Gatto: Dietary patterns and cognitive dysfunction in the aged: Adventist Health Study-2”
Raymond Knutsen and Penelope Duerksen-Hughes: “The association between adverse life events and biological aging”
 

These four projects were chosen from 16 applications received from 22 different co-investigators. Each was scored by a panel of senior researchers to determine the awardees.

]]>
Thu, 08 Jan 2015 14:42:21 -0800
4264:20046 <![CDATA[Zipcar brings car sharing to Loma Linda University Health]]> Nancy Yuen Loma Linda University students leaving chapel on Wednesday, Jan. 7, were given the opportunity to learn about Zipcar, a car-sharing program that is now available on the Loma Linda University Health campus.

During the Zipcar launch, representatives from Loma Linda University Health and Zipcar were present at a booth in front of Magan Hall. Many students and passersby stopped by the booth to see the two cars now available (a Toyota Prius and a Ford Focus), ask questions, and sign up for Zipcar.

According to Juan Carlos Belliard, PhD, assistant vice president, community partnerships and diversity, “Transportation without having to buy a car just became easier.” Led by graduate student Ladi Khoddam, Loma Linda University students signed a petition asking that the service be made available at Loma Linda University Health so they can more easily participate in off-campus service opportunities.

“Zipcar is growing in popularity in other cities,” says Belliard, “and while it is a novel idea, especially in our area, to share a car instead of owning one, nearby universities have begun offering the service. As we examined the idea, we decided our campus is well suited for it.”

According to Rodney Neal, MBA, senior vice president, financial affairs, Loma Linda University, “There are many foreign and out-of-state students who don’t own cars. This service will help meet this need while also encouraging the ride share aspect of environmental stewardship.”

Seventy-five of 100 free one-year memberships are still available for Loma Linda University Health faculty, students and staff of Loma Linda University Health. Departments may also sign up.

Zipcar representatives will be on campus to answer questions and assist with signups on Jan. 14 after chapel service during the university’s Lunch on the Lawn and, after lunch, will move to the student center where they can assist until 4:00 p.m.

The cost for Loma Linda University Health students, faculty, and staff is $25 for the first year plus an hourly fee. Members share the cars with rates beginning at $7.50 per hour ($69 per day). Gas, insurance, and up to 180 miles are included in these rates, and cars can be reserved up to one year in advance.

Students, faculty, and staff may join Zipcar at zipcar.com/llu.

]]>
Thu, 08 Jan 2015 12:26:59 -0800
4264:20060 <![CDATA[Choose your W-2 delivery]]> A new year brings new opportunities — including the opportunity to get taxes done early. Loma Linda University Health will prepare W-2 tax forms for all employees in January. Employees have the option to receive the form electronically or via the postal system. (The following does not apply to LLUMC – Murrieta employees, who should check with their separate payroll department for this information.)

To receive it electronically, employees must make this election by Jan. 15 at https://www.paperlessemployee.com/lomalinda. Step-by-step instructions will guide employees through this brief and confidential process. When the form is available, employees will receive email notification to download it. Note: electronic delivery is not available to physicians. 

Benefits of electronic delivery include earlier access to W-2s, and employees who choose this option can view and print the current year’s form through Oct. 15 without a fee. 

Once this choice is made, employees will continue to receive their W-2 statements electronically for all future tax years.

Employees who wish to continue receiving a hard copy of their W-2 need do nothing. A hard copy will be mailed to the employee’s address on file, postmarked by January 31, 2015.

Reissue of duplicate hard copies will be available upon request starting Feb. 13 with a $10 processing fee.

For more information, email payroll@llu.edu or call 909-651-4004.

]]>
Thu, 08 Jan 2015 14:54:53 -0800
4264:20071 <![CDATA[Annual Week of Renewal: 'Jesus, the Master Teacher']]> “Jesus, the Master Teacher,” is the theme for the annual Loma Linda University Health Week of Renewal. The Week of Renewal will be held Jan. 12 to 17. It is a campus-wide program to unite the organization in spiritual refocusing.

“Next week, we will again have the privilege of joining together to renew our hearts and minds during our annual Week of Renewal,” says Gerald Winslow, PhD, vice president for mission and culture. “I hope you will be able to set aside time for this purpose.”

Each day, Monday through Friday, will offer a morning praise session at 8:30 a.m. and a University@Worship service at 11:00 a.m. Additionally, on Monday through Wednesday, there will be a spiritual renewal program at noon at the Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center.

On Friday evening and Saturday, the 7th annual Spiritual Life & Wholeness Conference will take place; preregistration is required at llu.edu/wholepersoncareconference.

There will also be Sabbath worship services.

The complete schedule with locations is available below.

According to Kathy McMillan, MA, director, employee spiritual care and wholeness, “Each of us has an opportunity, at the beginning of the new year, to focus on our mission and recommit ourselves to God. We have 13 exceptional speakers who will be sharing at various locations on our theme, ‘Jesus, the Master Teacher.’”

Week of Renewal also offers the opportunity to give back through a clothing drive that will help patients at SAC Health System. For every two bags of clothing donated Jan. 13 to 15, Goodwill will donate a $10 gift card for patients. Clothing bins will be available in the Medical Center (lobby), Behavioral Medicine Center (gym), LLUAHSC 101 (employee break room), Heart and Surgical Hospital (employee entrance), and the Drayson Center lobby.

Following is the week’s schedule. (Details about remote viewing are below the schedule.)

Monday, January 12

8:30 a.m., Morning Praise, Children’s Hospital, 1830/32
Saul Barcelo: Straight to the Source

11:00 a.m., University@Worship, University Church
Tyler Stewart: Knowing What You Want

12:00 p.m., Spiritual Renewal, Behavioral Medicine Center gym
Saul Barcelo

Tuesday, January 13

8:30 a.m., Morning Praise, Heart and Surgical Hospital conference rooms
Mike Rhynus: Don’t Worry, Be Righteous! 

11:00 a.m., University@Worship, University Church
Garrett Speyer: Party Theology

12:00 p.m., Spiritual Renewal, Behavioral Medicine Center gym
Pedro Payne 

Wednesday, January 14

8:30 a.m., Morning Praise, LLU Medical Center East Campus, Zapara Pavilion
Pedro Payne: Contagious Compassion 

11:00 a.m., University@Worship, University Church
Stew Harty: Following Open Doors 

12:00 p.m.: Spiritual Renewal, Behavioral Medicine Center gym
Terry Hansen 

Thursday, January 15

8:30 a.m., Morning Praise, LLUAHSC 101, employee break room
Olivia Moses: I am a Teacher’s Kid

11:00 a.m., University@Worship, University Church
Miguel Mendez: Cake Boss

Friday, January 16

8:30 a.m., Morning Praise, LLUMC – Murrieta, boardroom, first floor
Michael Knecht: Peace 

11:00 a.m., University@Worship, University Church
Randy Speyer: Seating Arrangements

5:30 p.m., Spiritual Life & Wholeness Conference, Chen Fong Pavilion, Centennial Complex
Pre-registration is required at llu.edu/wholepersoncareconference. 

Sabbath, January 17

9:00 and 11:45 a.m., University Church at Worship, University Church
Roy Ice: Jesus, the Venture Capitalist 

10:25 a.m., Re:Live, University Church
Dustin Aho: You Called Me What?

10:30 a.m., Spiritual Life & Wholeness Conference, Chen Fong Pavilion, Centennial Complex
Pre-registration is required at llu.edu/wholepersoncareconference.

 

TO VIEW SESSIONS VIA COMPUTER OR AT REMOTE LOCATIONS

The 8:30 a.m. morning praise sessions will also be shown live streamed at six locations:

  • LLUAHSC 101 Employee break room
  • Mountain View Plaza staff development classroom 9
  • Children’s Hospital 1830/1832
  • East Campus Zapara Pavilion
  • Heart and Surgical Hospital conference rooms
  • Medical Center board room, first floor

The 8:30 a.m. morning praise sessions can also be live streamed on your computer at lomalindarenewal.org and will later be added there as recordings.

The 11:00 a.m. University@Worship services will be live streamed also at llu.edu/uw and later added as recordings.

]]>
Thu, 08 Jan 2015 15:28:18 -0800
4264:19932 <![CDATA[Holiday hiatus for News of the Week]]> Happy holidays from the office of public relations, which brings you News of the Week. Our next issue will be Thursday, Jan. 8, 2015.

]]>
Thu, 18 Dec 2014 14:25:44 -0800
4264:19942 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- Ground broken in 1966]]> Heather Reifsnyder It was 1966 when Melvin Judkins, MD, class of 1947, LLU School of Medicine, introduced a greatly simplified technique for an existing medical procedure. This came to be called the Judkins Technique, and last week’s trivia challenge asked what this procedure was. 

Answers of coronary angiography or coronary arteriography were accepted (it is called both on the LLU website), though I’m told by a cardiologist that angiography is the best term. Sherrefa Burchell, Bryan Solis, and Wanda R. Lewis, you are today’s three randomly selected winners. Please email pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

The same year Judkins introduced his technique, 1966, ground was broken on campus for a new building. This week’s trivia challenge is to name that building.

Please email the correct answer to pr@llu.edu for the chance to become a random winner. For fun, if you like, offer a description of that unique building. Any delightful or funny word pictures you provide may be shared when the answer is revealed.

Submit your answer by midnight, Wednesday, Dec. 31. The answer will appear in the next issue of News of the Week, which will not be until Jan. 8. Happy holidays. Peace.

]]>
Thu, 18 Dec 2014 14:32:23 -0800
4264:19934 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- Don't let food poisoning ruin the holidays]]> Heather Reifsnyder Part of Living It — living a whole life complete with mental, physical, emotional, spiritual and relational health — is time spent with friends and families. At this time of year, there are many such gatherings in celebration of the holiday season. Make sure there are no uninvited guests in the form of bacteria, viruses and toxins lurking in improperly prepared food. These can cause vomiting, diarrhea, fever or chills, abdominal cramps, and weakness.

The Health Library at lomalindahealth.org offers several tips for keeping food poisoning at bay. These include frequent washing and disinfecting of hands, dish towels, cutting boards (make sure these have a nonporous surface), dishes and cookware, and spills in the refrigerator or microwave. Chipped and cracked dishes should not be used — germs love them.

Learn more about preventing food poisoning — proper food storage, cooking to the right temperature, which foods to wash and separate, and prompt refrigeration — from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention here.

]]>
Thu, 18 Dec 2014 14:27:04 -0800
4264:19937 <![CDATA[Why the Gateway College?]]> Advancement films ]]> Meet Yohani, David, Shaianne, and Ariana. Many individuals like them will be helped through the San Manuel Gateway College at Loma Linda University Health – San Bernardino.

]]>
Thu, 18 Dec 2014 14:28:48 -0800
4264:19921 <![CDATA[Holiday office closures]]> For many employees of Loma Linda University Health, four-day weekends are coming for the holidays. Offices for Loma Linda University and LLU Shared Services will be closed on Fridays Dec. 26 and Jan. 2, as well as administrative offices for LLU Medical Center. 

“We hope that this additional time off will help everyone to spend more time at home and enjoy the holiday season. If you have any questions about this issue, please contact your supervisor,” say administrators Rod Neal of Loma Linda University; Kevin Lang, Mark Hubbard, and Angela Lalas of LLU Shared Services; and Terry Hansen of LLU Medical Center.

The holidays also mean that the payroll department will not be able to process off-cycle checks on the following days:

  • Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Dec. 23, 25, and 26
  • Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Dec. 30 and Jan. 1 and 2

For more information, contact payroll at 909-651-4004 or payroll@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 18 Dec 2014 14:18:59 -0800
4264:19940 <![CDATA[Making headlines]]> Heather Reifsnyder Read all about it. Several international, national and local media outlets have covered Loma Linda University Health and the city of Loma Linda recently. 

They’ve written about our health and longevity, our commitment to service, our plans for Loma Linda University Health – San Bernardino, and news about LLU Children’s Hospital.

• BBC World Service radio produced a 28-minute segment called “Living Longer in Lovely Hill,” while BBC News Magazine ran the article “Loma Linda: The secret to a long healthy life?”

• Fox News profiled Ellsworth Wareham, MD, co-founder of the Loma Linda University Overseas Heart Surgery Team, in a piece called “100-year-old surgeon, WWII vet who retired at age 95 shares secrets to longevity”.

• The Huffington Post profiled the outreach work in India of Nitin Shah, MD, professor of anesthesiology, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, in an article titled “If You Want to Be Happy for a Lifetime, Go Help Someone Else' — at Home and Abroad”.

“How to live to 100: This town may hold the secrets of longevity” was published on the NBC Today Show website.

• The San Bernardino Sun reported on the Dec. 10 groundbreaking for Loma Linda University Health – San Bernardino: “Loma Linda University Health breaks ground on San Bernardino health complex”.

• The local Highland Community News published “Loma Linda University receives $600,000 for health care training” and “Stater Bros. Charities K-FROG Radiothon Raises Over $275,000 to Help Kids Battling Cancer at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital”.

• And the Redlands Daily Facts reported on “Toy run benefits Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital”.

]]>
Thu, 18 Dec 2014 14:30:36 -0800
4264:19926 <![CDATA[Get inspired at the Spiritual Life and Wholeness Conference ]]> Nancy Yuen Community members and Loma Linda University Health leaders, practitioners, faculty, staff and students are invited to explore developments in the teaching and practice of whole person care during the 7th Annual Spiritual Life and Wholeness Conference on Jan. 16 (5:30–8:30 p.m.) and 17 (10:30 a.m.–6:00 p.m.), 2015. The conference will take place in the Chen Fong Conference Center, Centennial Complex.

Attendees will learn practical ways of integrating spirituality in the health care setting. The conference is sponsored by the Loma Linda University Center for Spiritual Life and Wholeness.

The keynote speaker is Thomas Hutchinson, MB, BCh, BAO, director, McGill University programs in whole person care and editor of the book “Whole Person Care.” Featured speakers include Gregory Fricchione, MD, director, psychiatry and medicine divisions and of the international psychiatry division, Massachusetts General Hospital, and Hedy S. Wald, PhD, clinical associate professor of family medicine, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University.

Also during the two-day event, 20 additional speakers from numerous entities throughout Loma Linda University Health will share exciting developments on campus in the area of whole person care.

“This year’s conference,” says Carla Gober Park, PhD, MS, MPH, director, Center for Spiritual Life and Wholeness, “will examine a holistic, 360-degree perspective, highlighting and actively strategizing whole person care across our campus.”

A highlight of the 2015 conference will be an innovative film-based illness narrative that explores one man, one diagnosis, and one story over time. Participants will also have the opportunity to hear about a new documentary film on the history of whole person care and interact with the film director.

According to Gober-Park, the conference has always been offered at no charge for Loma Linda University Health employees and students on the campus, with many referring to it as a "Sabbath gift."

An optional third day (Sunday the 18th), will feature a reflective writing workshop led by Wald. She oversees reflective writing curriculum in family medicine at Brown University. This $35 workshop will include didactic and interactive learning exploring the concept of fostering reflection in health care education and practice, formal analytic frameworks to enhance the educational value of feedback to students’ reflective writing, and development of a reflective, collaborative practitioner. 

Please register for the conference (and/or the reflective writing workshop) at llu.edu/wholepersoncareconference by Jan. 9. The conference is complimentary to Loma Linda University Health employees and students and costs $40 for guests and members of the community. The reflective writing workshop has a separate $35 fee.

]]>
Thu, 18 Dec 2014 14:20:51 -0800
4264:19929 <![CDATA[New dean to lead School of Nursing beginning New Year's Day]]> Heather Reifsnyder President Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, of Loma Linda University Health announced during a special luncheon at West Hall on Dec. 15 that the Board of Trustees has named Elizabeth (Becky) Bossert, PhD, as the new dean for the School of Nursing. Her tenure will become effective Jan. 1, 2015.

Bossert replaces longtime dean Marilyn Herrmann, PhD, who has led Loma Linda University School of Nursing in that position since 2006. Hart also announced that Trustees named Herrmann emeritus dean for the School of Nursing — a “well-deserved honor,” he said.

“Dr. Herrmann has provided extremely valuable leadership to this school and nurtured it,” Hart said, noting that without question the school holds a premier place not only in the Seventh-day Adventist educational network but also nationwide.

Bossert rose to the top of a field of candidates from both within and outside of Loma Linda University Health, Hart said. 

Bossert is currently associate dean for academic affairs and graduate programs at LLU School of Nursing. She has taught there since 1978 and has a number of years of experience in research, including two RO1 grants that were awarded to the research team. She has published in numerous refereed journals, has served as reviewer for the Journal of Pediatric Nursing, the Journal of Nursing Scholarship, the Journal of the Specialists in Pediatric Nursing, and Pediatric Nursing, and has presented at national and international conferences, among many other professional activities.

She is an alumna of Pacific Union College (AS), Walla Walla College (BS), and  LLU School of Nursing, where she received a master’s of science in 1977 with a focus on maternal–child nursing and nursing education, before going on to receive her DNS with a focus on clinical research from the University of California at San Francisco in 1990.  (UCSF recently converted this research-focused degree to the PhD designation.)

Also giving remarks at the event was Ronald Carter, PhD, provost of Loma Linda University. Calling the School of Nursing a “cornerstone of our medical enterprise,” he noted his appreciation of working with Herrmann over the years, and he said,

“The selection of Becky for this position has brought a lot of personal joy to me.”

Looking to Bossert, he said, “I know you’ll be very successful.” Carter added, “Becky is no stranger to administration. She has helped us in so many central committees. She has been the assistant chair of the university academic affairs committee. We’ve worked together on a number of research projects. She’s had many hats.”

Bossert said, “We have a good School of Nursing, and we’ll move forward in the way that Marilyn has led us in during these past years. And again I want to thank her.”  

Presenting bouquets of red and white flowers along with kind words to Bossert and Herrmann was Kathie Ingram, DNP, assistant professor of nursing and chair of the School of Nursing faculty affairs committee.

To Herrmann, she said, “We will truly miss you. We know your style, we know your ways, and we’re going to miss all of that. And we’re very happy to hear about your emeritus appointment.” 

Marilyn Herrmann joined the faculty of Loma Linda University School of Nursing in 1980, becoming assistant dean for undergraduate programs in 1989, and then associate dean for undergraduate programs in 1992. Since 2006, when she became dean, the School of Nursing has seen a significant increase in enrollment, added two new degrees, undergone a sizeable physical expansion, and been successfully reviewed by several accrediting bodies.

]]>
Thu, 18 Dec 2014 14:22:45 -0800
4264:19827 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- 'Life' and lives]]> Heather Reifsnyder In our continuing series on medical pioneers out of Loma Linda University Health, we learned last week about Edward H.G. Hon, MD, an alumnus of LLU School of Medicine class of 1950.

At Yale University, Hon pioneered a device that has saved countless babies — the fetal monitor. For this accomplishment, he was profiled in Life magazine in 1969. Correctly naming the publication that featured him were random winners Elisabeth Clarke, Shirley A. Lee and Lora Benzatyan. Please email pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

For this week’s question, we turn to Melvin P. Judkins, class of 1947, who greatly simplified an existing coronary procedure. His improved version came to be called the Judkins technique of said procedure. What was this procedure?

Email the correct answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, Dec. 16, for the chance to be a random winner. One answer per person.

]]>
Thu, 11 Dec 2014 12:44:36 -0800
4264:19828 <![CDATA[Save the date -- Car sharing is coming to Loma Linda University Health]]> Nancy Yuen Plan now to attend the launch of Zipcar, a service that is coming to the Loma Linda University Health campus in January 2015. Zipcar members have the use of a car by the hour or day on a self-serve basis, reserving cars online or using a mobile device.

According to Juan Carlos Belliard, PhD, assistant vice president, community partnerships and diversity, many Loma Linda University Health students and staff will no longer need to purchase a car when they move to Loma Linda. This service will allow greater freedom for students to engage with the local community without the burden of car ownership. It will also help improve street congestion, and will help make the campus more bike and pedestrian friendly.   

The service will be available to Loma Linda University Health students, faculty, staff, volunteers and the community. The launch will take place Jan. 7 at noon in front of Magan Hall.

]]>
Thu, 11 Dec 2014 12:45:57 -0800
4264:19840 <![CDATA[Sixty-one caregivers recognized through Healing Hands]]> Brittany Mitchell Healing Hands is a program through which grateful patients and families can give a philanthropic gift in honor of a physician or staff member. Gifts may be of any amount (no minimum or maximum) and directed to the area of their choice. Honored staff members are then presented with a Healing Hands pin and notified of the patient’s gift at their departmental staff meeting.

This year, 61 physicians, nurses and support staff have been recognized by patients through this program.

The following physicians and staff were recognized by patients through the Healing Hands program in 2014.

Dr. Antoine Sakr

Cardiology

Dr. Kenneth Jutzy

Cardiology

Dr. Liset Stoletniy

Cardiology

Dr. Vilma Torres

Cardiology

Maria Stevenson, RN

Cardiology

Marta Steritz, RN

Cardiology

Pamela Timothy, NP

Cardiology

Sharon Fabbri, NP

Cardiology

Dr. Ahmed Abou-ZamZam Jr.

Cardiovascular & thoracic surgery

Dr. Anees Razzouk

Cardiovascular & thoracic surgery

Dr. Hannah Copeland

Cardiovascular & thoracic surgery

Dr. Jason Chiriano

Cardiovascular & thoracic surgery

Dr. Nicole Wheeler

Cardiovascular & thoracic surgery

Dr. Leonard Bailey

Cardiovascular & thoracic surgery

Don Gamundoy, MSW

Clinical social worker

Cecilia Carpenter, RN

Emergency medicine

Connie Cunningham

Emergency medicine

Dr. Kent Denmark

Emergency medicine

Dr. Emerald Caruso

Gynecology & obstetrics

Dr. Sam Siddighi

Gynecology & obstetrics

Dr. Yevgeniya Ioffe

Gynecology & obstetrics

Dr. Scott Lee

Medicine/endocrinology

Dr. Aya Eguchi

Medicine/internal medicine

Dr. Marvin Elias

Medicine/ internal medicine

Dr. Raymond Wong

Medicine/ internal medicine

Dr. Gulnara Rackauskas

Medicine/nephrology

Dr. Sergio Infante

Medicine/nephrology

Dr. Keith Colburn

Medicine/rheumatology & immunology

Dr. Farbod Asgarzadie

Neurosurgery

Teresa Gross, RN

Oncology

Dr. John Affeldt

Ophthalmology

Dr. Michael Rauser

Ophthalmology

Dr. Richard Tamesis

Ophthalmology

Dr. Gary Botimer

Orthopedic surgery

Judy Racine, NP

Orthopedic surgery

Dr. Christopher Church

Otolaryngology & head/neck Surgery

David Tan, MPT

Orthopedic physical therapy

Lisa Hwang, DPT

Orthopedic physical therapy

Paul Samosky, PTA

Orthopedic physical therapy

Dr. Shamel Abd-Allah

Pediatric critical care

Dr. Shantaveer Gangu

Pediatric critical care

Dr. Richard Chinnock

Pediatrics

Dr. Subhas Gupta

Plastic surgery

Dexter Emoto, RN

Post-anesthesia care unit

Anthea Gibbons, RCP

Respiratory care

Jane Okwor, RCP

Respiratory care

Mohan Somasundaram, RCP

Respiratory care

Randall Isley, RCP

Respiratory care

Samuel Houng, RCP

Respiratory care

Brigeida Elhazin, NP

Transplant hepatology

Hannah Li, RN

Unit 5700

Heather Flores, RN

Unit 5700

Jamie Hambly, RN

Unit 5700

Lynelle Crabtree, RN

Unit 5700

Michele Wilson, RN, CNS

Unit 5700

Dr. Dean Hadley

Urology

Dr. Duane Baldwin

Urology

Dr. Herbert Ruckle

Urology

Dr. Noel T. Hui

Urology

Dr. Paul Lui

Urology

Dr. Roger Hadley

Urology 

For more information about the Healing Hands program, visit www.lluhealinghands.org.

 

]]>
Thu, 11 Dec 2014 13:06:03 -0800
4264:19830 <![CDATA[Baby Moses, all grown up, visits Loma Linda University Health]]> Larry Kidder Most people today may not know about the 29-year-old “Baby Moses.” No, this isn’t the baby who floated among the bulrushes of the Nile.

Rather, Baby Moses is the name coined for the first infant to receive a successful infant-to-infant heart transplant back in 1985. The name was a way to protect his identity.

Baby Moses, who is now a young adult, is actually Eddie Anguiano. He and his mother, Maria, live in the Las Vegas area. Both stopped by Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital on Tuesday, Dec. 9, on the way to visit Maria Anguiano’s sister and attend a niece’s graduation.

A group of individuals primarily from Loma Linda University Transplantation Institute and Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital gathered for an informal reunion. Anguiano, an outgoing and engaging young man who works at Opportunity Village in Las Vegas and loves to walk his dog, Luna, was thrilled to see his friends at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital. 

The highlight was a quick visit with Leonard L. Bailey, MD, chief of cardiothoracic surgery and pioneer in infant heart transplantation, who saved his life in 1985. Bailey had a few minutes to spare between his Tuesday surgery cases.

Eddie Anguiano was born Nov. 16, 1985. Today, he is the longest-surviving individual to receive a new heart as a newborn. His original heart, donated by the family of an infant in the San Francisco Bay area, still pumps in his chest.

Anguiano was born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, a condition in which the left ventricle of the heart is severely underdeveloped. Without the intervention of Bailey, he would most likely have died within a week or two.

The connection between Anguiano and Bailey is unmistakable. “You are looking well,” Bailey said after they exchanged a warm hug. Bailey picked up one of a collection of enlarged photos showing Anguiano as a baby and toddler.

“You were so cute,” Bailey laughed. Anguiano replied, within a heartbeat, “Now look what happened to me.” His friends at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital were delighted with his response.

 

]]>
Thu, 11 Dec 2014 12:50:28 -0800
4264:19833 <![CDATA[Video tour: Loma Linda University Health - San Bernardino]]> Advancement films ]]> See the plans for the clinical and educational building that will help transform San Bernardino. 

]]>
Thu, 11 Dec 2014 12:53:11 -0800
4264:19850 <![CDATA[Notes from the President]]> Dr. Richard Hart   December 2014
The history that makes our work in San Bernardino possible

Franciscan missionary Father Dumetz “discovered” a peaceful valley in inland California in 1810, inhabited primarily by the Serrano Tribe of Indians. He named the area San Bernardino in 1852“San Bernardino,” a mission was built, and Mill Creek was redirected into irrigation channels to make agriculture blossom. When California became a Mexican territory in 1821, the “Great Spanish Rancheros” took advantage of the beautiful climate, planting citrus groves. By 1842 San Bernardino had become an important trading post known as San Bernardino Rancho on the “Spanish Trail,” visited by pioneer trailblazers Kit Carson and Jedediah Smith. The Gold Rush starting in 1848 changed everything in California, and it joined the United States as the 31st state on September 9, 1850. In 1851 a group of 500 Mormon settlers seeking religious freedom purchased the former mission, built a stockade around it, and renamed it Fort San Bernardino. It officially became a city in 1854 with strict rules against alcohol and gambling. The great railway companies soon made this valley a hub, and in 1886 Santa Fe Railway established a transcontinental link to Los Angeles that opened the valley to the rest of the country.

With its population doubling between 1900 and 1910, the valley caught the attention of the leaders of the fledging Seventh-day Adventist Church, who were seeking to establish institutions in Southern California. In 1901, Ellen White had a vision of a facility with graceful pepper trees providing shade to patients, and buildings ideally suited for a sanitarium. After urging John Burden to obtain the place, she first visited Loma Linda on June 12, 1905, recalling it as the “very place” she had seen in vision. The bankrupt resort was successfully purchased through a series of miracles, and a hospital and school were established later that year.

By 1907, Dr. Julia White, Lyra Georgeone of our first faculty and the founder of the School of Nursing, was recorded as giving health lectures to the San Bernardino school district, with 2,500 attending. This connection with the community grew rapidly, assisted by the growing number of students and faculty at Loma Linda who reached out to the surrounding villages in various ways. When Dr. Lyra George, an obstetrician, joined the faculty, she was soon called upon to deliver babies throughout the valley, traveling to their homes by horseback, including the adobe homes of Serrano Indians. Many baby girls were also given the name Lyra, following the tradition of naming babies after the first person they saw.  

As the years passed, the College of Medical Evangelists, later Loma Linda University, grew to include a variety of schools and programs. Faculty, staff and students continued to relate to the community, including two branches of Serrano Indians, called the San Manuel and Morongo bands of Mission Indians. Some of the Indian children who now lead those bands attended branch Sabbath Schools conducted by Loma Linda staff.

In the late 1960s, students from Loma Linda University decided to start an evening clinic for the migrant farm workers and hippies who were coming to California. With the assistance of Loma Linda University Church, they established what they called the Social Action Corps, or SAC clinics, holding free clinics with faculty supervision several evenings a week, together with SAC Norton clinicsmoking cessation programs and other educational initiatives. These clinics gradually grew to include several different sites over the following 30 years until the large clinic building at the former Norton Air Force Base was deeded to Loma Linda for use as a community clinic in 1995. The clinic system is now called Social Action Community Health System (SAC Health System). In addition to caring for patients, the SAC Health System clinics have become a major site for interdisciplinary training for Loma Linda students and physicians.

Now the SAC Norton facility has become too small for the growing clinical services and training activities. On December 10, we broke ground at a new San Bernardino site for a 150,000-square-foot clinical and educational center. Located on a seven-acre parcel adjacent to the 215 Freeway in downtown San Bernardino, this three-story building will be completed by the spring of 2016.

The number of patient visits — now around 35,000 each year for the SAC Health System clinics — is expected to grow to more than 100,000 annually at the new facility. It will provide a variety of primary care and specialty clinics for the community, including dental and mental health services. In partnership with Inland Empire Health Plan, it will help care for the more than one million residents of the Inland Empire who are on MediCal (Medicaid), as well as the remaining uninsured in the valley and beyond.

Artist's rendering

What will really make this new building unique is the 20 percent of its space dedicated to what we are calling the San Manuel Gateway College in honor of a $10 million gift from our old friends, the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. They have frequently stated their desire to give back to Loma Linda, and the gift to develop this college will provide a unique setting for professional education. In partnership with the San Bernardino City Unified School District and its Adult School, the college will provide a variety of certificate-level courses, giving job-entry skills to high school graduates. There are many of these three-to-twelve-month career opportunities in health care today, such as medical assistants, dental assistants, pharmacy assistants, coders, phlebotomists, etc. This will start many of these young students on employment paths that can grow into long-term careers or provide a steppingstone to advanced degrees. The ability to obtain real jobs is one of the greatest needs in San Bernardino today.

The community has responded to these plans with great enthusiasm. As expressed at the groundbreaking by community leaders Greg Devereaux, CEO of San Bernardino County; Dale Marsden, superintendent, San Bernardino City Unified School District; Carey Davis, mayor of San Bernardino; and others, this initiative from Loma Linda University Health has given the entire city hope for the future and a belief that its difficult transition out of bankruptcy is coming to an end. Benefiting both our Loma Linda students and local high school graduates, this educational environment will enhance cross-cultural skills and understanding for both groups in an interactive and mentored setting.

Enjoy this video clip of the groundbreaking ceremony, in which Patrick Morris, former mayor of San Bernardino, eloquently shares the need in San Bernardino and the shared dream for its future.

 

 

You can learn more about Loma Linda University Health – San Bernardino at its website.

 

May our God give you joy and peace during this special holiday season.

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH,
President
Loma Linda University Health

 

Vision 2020: The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow
http://lluhvision2020.org

 

Office of the President, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350

Copyright © 2014 by Loma Linda University

]]>
Thu, 11 Dec 2014 14:17:44 -0800
4264:19835 <![CDATA[Emotional ceremony launches Loma Linda University Health - San Bernardino]]> Calvin Naito and Jiggs Gallagher Groundbreaking ceremonies were held Wednesday, Dec. 10, for Loma Linda University Health – San Bernardino, a new health care and educational initiative in downtown San Bernardino. The ceremonies took place in a large tent at 250 South G Street, where the center will be built between San Manuel Stadium and the 215 Freeway.

According to Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health, the project will help support the San Bernardino economy and promote health and wholeness in the community for years to come.

“Studies of the infrastructure of San Bernardino have found that there are two large unmet needs in this community,” Hart explained. “The first is a lack of skilled workers. The second is a lack of quality health care. Our new project will help address both of those sectors of the economy by providing career education and health care for area residents as well as creating employment opportunities.”

The project involves three distinct, yet related components. The first is an educational center to be known as San Manuel Gateway College. Funded in part by a generous gift of $10 million from the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, it will provide a variety of six-to-12-month certificate training programs to prepare high school graduates for a number of rewarding career options in the health care field.

Ken Ramirez, tribal secretary, San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, spoke movingly about how Loma Linda physicians and nurses cared for needy tribal members in the early 20th century, at low or no cost, when no one else would do so. He said members have long memories, and are grateful for the compassion shown to them. He added that now that they have the resources to make the valley community a better place, they are happy to help with their generous contribution. 

The second element of the new facility will be an expanded multi-specialty medical clinic to be operated by Social Action Community Health System (SACHS), currently located at 1455 E. Third Street in San Bernardino.

The third is a vegetarian restaurant designed to showcase the longevity-enhancing benefits of a plant-based diet.

Bradley P. Gilbert, MD, CEO of Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP), noted during the program that the expanded SACHS clinic will become a critical component of the IEHP delivery system with the increased primary care and specialty services it will provide to IEHP members. He said, “Given the large growth in our membership, which will reach one million members soon, we need high quality, accessible services such as will be delivered at the expanded SACHS clinic.”

SACHS, which was started by Loma Linda University Health students in the 1960s, has grown to become a major provider of health services in San Bernardino. The new location will not only offer considerably more space than the old one affords, but will also offer expanded health care options for downtown residents. With a full complement of primary, behavioral health, clinical, dental, health education, laboratory, pharmacy, urgent care, and women’s health services, the clinic will feature world-class health care provided by Loma Linda University Health faculty, residents, and students.

“SACHS is the second-largest teaching health center in the nation,” notes Nancy Young, MHES, president and CEO of SACHS. “Research shows that physicians trained in a community health center are three times as likely to stay working in community health throughout their careers.”

Hart said Loma Linda University Health – San Bernardino is designed as a LEED-certified architectural showpiece intended to beautify the downtown area with trees and gardens that promote healing and a sense of community. The LEED acronym stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design and indicates that the center will be environmentally responsible and will use resources wisely in accordance with highest industry standards for green buildings. 

The new center represents a unique partnership of local organizations eager to create a revolutionary educational opportunity in the region. The city of San Bernardino, the County of San Bernardino, the San Bernardino Community College District, the San Bernardino City Unified School District, several non-profit organizations, and SACHS are partnering with the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians and Loma Linda University Health in this comprehensive project. 

San Bernardino Mayor R. Carey Davis, MBA, said the new center will symbolize the city’s economic development to local residents as well as the surrounding communities and visitors who will view the new architectural display from the 215 Freeway.

“This represents a great opportunity to revitalize our downtown area,” Davis observed. “It will also begin to change the image of San Bernardino as a result of the building that is going on. It will show that economic activity is returning. We see the collaboration and partnership as one that is very important to the rebirth of our downtown.”

The program concluded with Tribal Secretary Ken Ramirez and other tribal elders performing a bird song, and a spiritual blessing on the new building. World Seventh-day Adventist President Ted N.C. Wilson, PhD, a member of the Board of Trustees, Loma Linda University Adventist Health Sciences Center, offered a final prayer to close the service. The Trustees took time out of their meetings to attend the important event.

]]>
Thu, 11 Dec 2014 12:57:45 -0800
4264:19739 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week-- medical pioneers]]> Heather Reifsnyder Numerous key medical advances have been developed by Loma Linda University alumni and faculty. Our trivia questions for the last few weeks have focused on them. Last week’s question was about Roger Barnes, MD, School of Medicine class of 1922, who developed the trans-urethral resection of the prostate, or TURP, which has prevented many men the trauma of undergoing open abdominal surgery. He enhanced and popularized the technique on the Los Angeles campus of Loma Linda University. 

Correctly identifying the procedure’s abbreviated name were random winners Brenda Holden, Lois A. Wheeler, and Lora Benzatyan. Please email pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

For this week’s question, we turn to something that has saved many baby’s lives: fetal monitoring. Edward H.G. Hon, MD, LLU School of Medicine class of 1950, pioneered this advance while at Yale University and White Memorial Medical Center.

In 1969, a famous periodical featured Hon and his achievement. Which magazine was this? E-mail the correct answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, Dec. 9, for the chance to be a random winner. One answer per person.

]]>
Thu, 04 Dec 2014 14:49:38 -0800
4264:19736 <![CDATA[Office closures]]> The holidays are a time to fellowship and develop friendships. The following offices will briefly close for staff celebrations.

Talent management services
Tuesday, Dec. 16, from 3:00–5:00 pm.
Call ext. 14040 for more information.

Printing & mail services
Friday, Dec. 5, from noon to close
Call ext. 44552 for more information.

]]>
Thu, 04 Dec 2014 14:40:01 -0800
4264:19735 <![CDATA[Benefit fair winners announced]]> About 4,420 employees attended the annual employee benefits fairs Nov. 4 through 6. Many employees won prizes, including five grand-prize winners. They each won an iPad mini and urBeats by Dre. They are:

• Kandyce Edwards – Loma Linda University Health System
• Albin Grohar – Loma Linda University Shared Services
• Corey Virgilio – Loma Linda University Medical Center
• Courtney Crook – Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center
• Krisit Racine – Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital. 

Winners who have not yet claimed their prize may come to the office of talent management services during regular office hours, Monday through Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Fridays 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. For more information, call ext. 14001. 

]]>
Thu, 04 Dec 2014 14:36:45 -0800
4264:19729 <![CDATA[Cleft palate patient perseveres despite ridicule]]> Advancement films ]]> Hugo Ramos has a big voice and personality to match! He was treated at Loma Linda University School of Dentistry for his cleft lip and palate. Despite hurtful comments from peers, Hugo says he’s achieving his dreams, like singing and earning a 4.0 GPA in middle school. View his inspiring story.

]]>
Thu, 04 Dec 2014 14:27:02 -0800
4264:19733 <![CDATA[A very merry Christmas at the plaza]]> Nancy Blaire Bring a scarf, friends and an extra dose of holiday cheer to the Loma Linda University Health campus plaza on Tuesday, Dec. 9, for a Party at the Plaza: A Very Merry Christmas.

Enjoy Christmas music featuring local and student musicians at Loma Linda’s Farmer’s Market, and an opportunity to give back during the season of giving. The sounds of the season can be heard from 5:00 until 7:30 p.m.

Visit and enjoy some of the new healthful and delicious market night eats, explore local fare or choose from farm-fresh fruits and vegetables.

A special giving opportunity will be featured by the Loma Linda University Campus Store, partner with the Global Health Institute during the month of December to collect donations aiding Adventist Health International hospitals treating patients in Ebola-stricken regions of Africa.

Party at the Plaza: A Very Merry Christmas is presented by LLU Institute for Community Partnerships, the LLU Campus Store and iLLUTech in partnership with Loma Linda Chamber of Commerce.

The campus plaza is located on the corner of Anderson and Mound streets. Enjoy fresh produce and local healthy fare every Tuesday at Loma Linda Farmer’s Market.

To learn more, call LLU Campus Store at 909-558-4567.

]]>
Thu, 04 Dec 2014 14:33:50 -0800
4264:19731 <![CDATA[Give to a giver with Adopt-a-Missionary]]> Courtney Beckwith Haas ’Tis the season of giving, and what better way to celebrate than giving to a giver?

Loma Linda University Global Health Institute, in collaboration with Students for International Mission Service, is holding the second annual “Adopt-a-Missionary” Christmas project on campus.

This project focuses on collecting care packages filled with Christmas cheer for volunteers currently serving abroad. This year the collections are going for 15 different volunteers and families.

The missionaries are working overseas at Loma Linda University Health strategic interest sites as dentists, hospital administrators, nurses, public health educators and more. They range from Loma Linda University alumni, LLU global service awardees, LLU deferred mission appointees, and Adventist Health International long-term volunteers.

The job is simple:

• Pick an ornament with a family name on it from the Christmas tree in the Councilors Student Pavilion or call the Global Health Institute to learn about the available families.
• Pick up a 12”x12”x5.5” large flat-rate box from the Global Health Institute office at 24888 Prospect Avenue, Loma Linda, CA 92354, and fill it with goodies.
• Once finished, return the package to the Global Health Institute by Dec. 19. They will take care of the rest. 

These missionaries are dedicating their lives “To Make Man Whole” all over the world. Help spread the holiday spirit and share a little reminder of home by signing up to sponsor a box today.

To learn more about this project and see a list of suggested gifts, please visit lluglobal.com/Adopt or contact Angeli Yutuc, program manager of international service at 909-558-4876 or ayutuc@llu.edu.

Examples of things to send include peanut butter, batteries, lotion, recipes, movies, music, LLU gear, etc. 

Things not to send include aerosols, fruits and veggies, perfumes, perishable food, etc. 

]]>
Thu, 04 Dec 2014 14:29:40 -0800
4264:19741 <![CDATA[A celebration of Children's Hospital's new license]]> Heather Reifsnyder It’s time for Loma Linda University Health to celebrate the successful separate licensure of Children’s Hospital’s, which took effect Nov. 16.

Individuals campus-wide are invited to celebrate. Choose from one of two times during which food, giveaways, and a photo booth are planned in Children’s Hospital rooms 1830 and 1832.

• Thursday, Dec. 11, from 3:00–5:00 p.m., or
• Friday, Dec. 12, from 7:00–9:00 a.m. 

Leading up to the official separation on Nov. 16, more than 100 people worked overnight on the 15th and into the morning of the16th to create a successful transition. These incredible helpers included staff from the units, clinical informatics, and LLEAP (Loma Linda Electronic Access Portal). Allison Ong, MSN, nurse leadership resident, coordinated the cutover.

Efforts started at 8:00 p.m. on Nov. 15, with the official transition taking place at 12:02 a.m. All pediatric patients were discharged from Loma Linda University Medical Center and readmitted into LLU Children’s Hospital.

Since opening in 1993, Children’s Hospital was operationally integrated into Loma Linda University Medical Center. The new separate license allows the Children’s Hospital to strengthen strategic partnerships, obtain greater contract flexibility, and further develop and distinguish its pediatric and obstetrical care against other children’s hospitals nationwide. 

]]>
Thu, 04 Dec 2014 14:52:51 -0800
4264:19634 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- Creators of procedure]]> Heather Reifsnyder A five-man team from CBS News came to campus for two days in 1969 to do interviews for a documentary about new techniques in pain control. What brought them to Loma Linda University? It was the groundbreaking work of LLU School of Dentistry Emeritus Professor Niels B. Jorgensen, DDS, on developing a pain management method. It is called the “Loma Linda Technique” or “Jorgensen Technique.” 

Correctly naming Jorgensen were random winners Nikki McCutchan, Gregory D. Mitchell and Lilibeth Muyano. Please email pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days. 

Jorgensen taught in LLU School of Dentistry from 1954 to 1974. He was called “one of the giants in anesthesiology in dentistry, and in particular, in the education of the undergraduate student … [in the technique of] sedation” by Norman Trieger, DMD, MD, editor of the Journal of Anesthesia Progress. Read more here and here.

For next week: Another professor, and an alumnus, from Loma Linda University — Roger Barnes, MD, — developed a surgical procedure that has been used throughout the world. What is the abbreviated name of this procedure?

Email the correct answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, Nov. 25, for the chance to be a random winner. One answer per person. 

]]>
Thu, 20 Nov 2014 15:49:24 -0800
4264:19627 <![CDATA[News of the Week wins peer-reviewed award]]> Loma Linda University Health’ s online newsletter, News of the Week, received a Polaris Award on Nov. 19 from the California Inland Empire Chapter of the Public Relations Society of America. Heather Reifsnyder is editor of News of the Week.

The 2013 Annual Report for Adventist Health International also won a Polaris Award. The project is done under the direction of Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of both Loma Linda University Health and Adventist Health International*. Dustin R. Jones, MA, edited the publication.

According to Inland Empire Chapter of Public Relations Society of America, “Our annual Polaris Awards recognize the very best in public relations tactics and programs that successfully incorporate sound research, planning, execution and evaluation. These awards represent the highest standards of performance in the public relations profession in the Inland Empire.”  

Formed in 1965, the Inland Empire Chapter of Public Relations Society of America serves San Bernardino and Riverside counties. PRSA, headquartered in New York City, is the world's largest professional organization for public relations professionals, with nearly 20,000 members, organized into 117 chapters nationwide, who represent business and industry, counseling firms, government, associations, hospitals, schools, professional services firms and nonprofit organizations.

–––––––––––

* Adventist Health International (AHI) is a multinational nonprofit corporation with headquarters in Loma Linda, California. AHI has been established to provide coordination, consultation, management, and technical assistance to hospitals and health care services operated by the Seventh-day Adventist Church, primarily in developing countries.

]]>
Thu, 20 Nov 2014 15:45:41 -0800
4264:19618 <![CDATA['Tis the season: radiothon for kids battling cancer at LLU Children's Hospital]]> Heather Reifsnyder The jangle of multiple phones ringing on Dec. 3 and 4 will be good news for kids battling cancer at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital. Each call into the Stater Bros. Charities K-Froggers for Kids Radiothon will mean more funds raised for the cause.

There are a few ways to get involved:

1. Volunteer to answer phones during the radiothon. Contact Tiffany Hoekstra at 909-558-5367 if interested.

2. Donate online ahead of time at https://advancement.lluhealth.org/kfrg2014.

3. Listen to K-FROG on Dec. 3 or 4 at FM 95.1 (Riverside, San Bernardino, Los Angeles, Orange County) or FM 92.9 (Temecula Valley).

4. Call in to donate at 1-800-825-5437, or give online at www.kfrog.com.

This is the 13th year of the Stater Bros. Charities K-Froggers for Kids Radiothon benefiting Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital.

“The community’s support through this radiothon means everything to our kids at LLU Children’s Hospital,” says Hoekstra, senior development officer, LLU Children’s Hospital Foundation. “Thank you for making sure these children can have a healthy future.”

]]>
Thu, 20 Nov 2014 15:38:26 -0800
4264:19625 <![CDATA[Photo contest now open for prayer notes ]]> For the past 12 years, Loma Linda University Health has created an annual set of prayer note cards. To be used in patient care, each note, similar to a postcard, has a beautiful nature photo on one side and an encouraging verse of scripture on the back. There is also a note that says “I prayed for you today and asked God to bless you.”

It has become a tradition to select photos for the cards via a contest for employees and students of Loma Linda University Health.

Photo entries are now being accepted with a deadline of Friday, Dec. 12, 2014. Images should be inspirational, in color, and of nature. Additionally, the photos should by four by six inches (vertical or horizontal), in JPG format, with a resolution of 300 DPI.

In addition to winners having their photos featured on the cards, prizes are as follows:

  • 1st place – $100 gift card 
  • 2nd place – $75 gift card 
  • 3rd place – $50 gift card 
  • Runners up  – $25 gift card

Submit photographs to Kathy McMillan, employee spiritual care, LLU Medical Center, room 4011.

For more information, email kmcmillan@llu.edu or call ext. 48406. Download the flier below for further details.

]]>
Thu, 20 Nov 2014 15:43:37 -0800
4264:19629 <![CDATA[Loma Linda University Health drills for Ebola scenario]]> Heather Reifsnyder While California has had no cases of Ebola virus disease, Loma Linda University Health drilled for such a scenario Nov. 20 as part of its continual commitment to train for potential disasters. The infectious disease drill also took place across California as the 2014 Statewide Medical and Health Exercise.

The drill at Loma Linda University Health saw the unified command center go into action on the simulated scenario that a patient who recently traveled arrives in the emergency department with a fever while influenza-like illnesses are on the rise in the local area. This was only a drill.

The successful drill brought together health care clinicians, security officers, administrators, and communications staff working together in the unified command center to respond to this scenario.

“Loma Linda University Health continues to closely track developments and recommendations regarding Ebola from the Centers for Disease Control as well as the California Department of Public Health, and we have established a response plan, with hospital epidemiology taking the leader, that ensures the safety of our patients, staff, and community,” says Brett McPherson, director of environmental health and safety for Loma Linda University Health.

To date, neither Loma Linda University Health, the San Bernardino County Department of Public Health, or the state of California has seen a case of Ebola virus disease. 

However, Loma Linda University Health is screening all its patients with questions regarding travel history and symptoms.

Educational materials about Ebola are available on the OWL portal for Loma Linda University Health employees. 

]]>
Thu, 20 Nov 2014 15:47:09 -0800
4264:19620 <![CDATA[Take a walk ...]]> Jiggs Gallagher The new pedestrian walkway from the parking structure spanning Campus Street to the Medical Center was officially opened today. Kevin Lang, MBA, president and CEO of Loma Linda University Shared Services, cut the ribbon, along with Cori Stiles, manager of parking, traffic and rideshare; Dominic Reichmuth, manager of fleet services; and Kevin Fischer, executive director of real estate management.

Lang said in remarks to the group that the cost of building the walkway was covered by bringing the recently built parking structure in under budget. Fischer said construction took about seven months.

The bridge includes a canopy and two backlit signs saying “Loma Linda University Health” on both sides, facing traffic on Campus Street.

]]>
Thu, 20 Nov 2014 15:40:14 -0800
4264:19506 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week-- Thursday the 13th]]> Heather Reifsnyder Which official from Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital in Hangzhou, China, received Loma Linda University’s Global Service Award during the LLU School of Medicine commencement ceremony this year?

Among those correctly answering He Chao, MD, the three random winners are Jack L. Bennett, Irmgart Mitchell, and Ana De La Cruz. Please email pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

On today’s date in 1969 — Thursday the 13th — Loma Linda University published an issue of the University Scope newspaper in which one of the stories details how a five-man CBS television crew spent two days on campus filming for a documentary on pain control.

What brought them to Loma Linda? It was a particular emeritus professor in the LLU School of Dentistry who is famous for developing pain management techniques. What was his or her name?

Please email the correct answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, Nov. 18, for a chance to become a random winner. One answer per person.  

]]>
Thu, 13 Nov 2014 15:54:03 -0800
4264:19479 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- growing healthy relationships]]> Randall Walker Contemporary research consistently demonstrates the important contribution relationships and social networks make to overall health. If connections play such a key role in wholeness, how do we grow healthy relationships?

The following are three suggested actions that may increase the likelihood we will experience fulfilling interpersonal relationships. 

First, develop an ability to reflect on, recognize and acknowledge what is going on inside you. Practice regularly tuning into your inner experience. What is going through your mind right now? What bodily sensations are you aware of? Do you associate specific sensations with emotions or feelings? What names do you give these emotions or feelings? Evidence suggests individuals who are able to reflect on — passively observe without judgment — their inner experience may be less reactive and, consequently, may have more options available to them than individuals who are not able to do so. 

Second, develop an ability to recognize feelings and emotions in others. Practice identifying what you imagine others are feeling. People may describe their emotional experience in words, but more often many feelings are displayed non-verbally, in facial expressions, tone of voice and body posture. This is not an exact science. There is no way to be certain what a person may be thinking or feeling. However, when we are able to accurately acknowledge what another is feeling, it gives that person the experience of “feeling felt.”1  

Third, use insight into your own inner experience to inform what you imagine may be going on inside of others. Awareness and insight into our own inner experience may contribute significantly to recognizing emotions in others. This is called empathy. Daniel Siegel, MD, noted expert on “interpersonal neurobiology,” defines empathy as “… he ability to see the world through another person’s perspective (cognitive empathy) and to feel another person’s feelings (emotional empathy).”2 Using empathy to guide our responses to others may increase the chances that these responses will be on target. On target or congruent responses connect us with others and ultimately strengthen our relationship with them.

These suggested steps may help develop and maintain the quality personal relationships, which contribute to overall health and wholeness.

— Randall Walker, MS, MFT, is director of the Counseling & Family Sciences Clinic at Loma Linda University Behavioral Health Institute.

This article originally appeared in the summer newsletter of the Loma Linda University Health Living Whole Employee Wellness Program. Download it below.

References
1. Siegel, D. J. (2012). “Pocket guide to interpersonal neurobiology: An integrative handbook of the mind” (Norton Series on Interpersonal Neurobiology) (p. 456). Norton. Kindle Edition. 
2. Siegel, D. J. (2012). (p. 453). 

]]>
Thu, 13 Nov 2014 14:40:32 -0800
4264:19472 <![CDATA[Hemet community welcomes Loma Linda University Health ]]> Molly Riter “What we’re doing here is a celebration,” intoned Andy Anderson, CEO, San Jacinto Chamber of Commerce, at the Nov. 12 open house ribbon cutting for the new Loma Linda University Health primary care and cardiology office in Hemet. He was greeted by warm applause from a crowd of local residents, many of whom seemed eager to become patients at the new office.

Although the start time for the open house was scheduled for 4:30 p.m., people started to arrive before 4:00 p.m. Later, attendees lined the hallways and queued up at the front door.

“It’s much more than I expected,” David Wren, senior vice president, faculty practice, Loma Linda University Health, remarked of the crowd. “It’s an exciting opportunity to have another office location out in an area that is clearly eager to have us here.”

Peter Baker, vice president for business development, Loma Linda University Health System, echoed Wren’s sentiments: “Hemet is an area we’ve been wanting to reach out to for a long time. I’m excited at the community support for Loma Linda here.”

Many attendees lined up to meet Allen Liu, MD, the primary care physician at the new office. People also toured the clinic, enjoyed refreshments and entered the prize drawing for an iPad Mini. At the end of the night, there were 154 drawing entries, an indicator of the great turnout for the open house.

Loma Linda University Health System family medical group and cardiology will provide services at the new office, which officially opened its doors in April 2014. The office is located at 603 E. Latham Avenue in Hemet, and the phone number is 951-658-3134.

Roger Woodruff, MD, chair, family medical group, summed up the opening of the new office by saying: “After seeing patients for many years at Loma Linda, we’re delighted now to be serving them in their own community.”

]]>
Thu, 13 Nov 2014 14:37:04 -0800
4264:19455 <![CDATA[Deputy shot in Dorner standoff shares story]]> Advancement films ]]> It’s a story that made national news. San Bernardino County sheriff’s deputy Alex Collins was shot multiple times during a gun battle with ex-police officer Christopher Dorner in Big Bear last year. He was rushed to Loma Linda University Medical Center, where a team of doctors worked to save his life

]]>
Thu, 13 Nov 2014 14:18:30 -0800
4264:19453 <![CDATA[LLU Medical Center's 'thank you' to the community]]> Jiggs Gallagher This year’s seventh annual “ThankSharing” concert and food drive, sponsored by Loma Linda University Medical Center, will take place at the Packinghouse in Redlands on Friday, Nov. 14, beginning at 7:00 p.m. Doors open at 6:00 p.m.

Award-winning Christian music artist Nichole Nordeman will be the featured entertainer. Her best-known songs include “Holy,” “Legacy,” “Brave” and “What If?”  In addition to her music career, Nordeman is also a recently published author. Her book is titled “Love Story,” and it explores pivotal moments of Scriptural characters.

The program will also feature local artists Roxie Jane and Khari Washington, as well as a 40-person youth choir, KAY-C. Details can be found at www.thanksharing.org.

Admission is free with donation of any non-perishable food goods.

The Packinghouse is at 27165 W. San Bernardino Avenue in Redlands. From I-10, take the Alabama Street exit north to San Bernardino Avenue and turn west. The building is on the left.

In addition to the food collected at the November 14 event, there are currently over 20 additional sites for donations. Donations will benefit the community through the ministry of three local food banks. For more information on the food drive and donations, contact Kathy McMillan at kmcmillan@llu.edu. Also find more information at www.thanksharing.org.

 

]]>
Thu, 13 Nov 2014 14:16:12 -0800
4264:19486 <![CDATA[Physician parking lot closure begins tomorrow]]> Administrative message Beginning Friday, Nov. 14, at 9:00 p.m., the ‘G’ east physician parking lot will be closed for repairs. The lot will reopen Monday, Dec. 8, 2014.

Physicians are encouraged to park on the lower level of the original (three-story) structure or may park on the third level and above in the West Hall parking structure during the closure.

Please be advised that enforcement will be in effect to ensure parking for physicians, as it is critical that they have parking while lot G is closed.

Employees, staff and students are encouraged to arrive early to find parking during this time, as major delays are expected. If you have a question, please contact the department of parking and traffic services at 909-651-3025 or email Parking@llu.edu

 

 

]]>
Thu, 13 Nov 2014 15:05:00 -0800
4264:19465 <![CDATA[Beware current fraudulent emails]]> Paul Medema and Nancy Yuen This week Loma Linda University Health was hit with a new phishing (pronounced fishing) email. Phishing emails are pervasive and virtually all email users should be prepared to deal with them on a regular, if not daily, basis.

A phishing email is an email message that has been sent with the intent of defrauding the recipient of financial, password or other sensitive information by posing as a legitimate friend, company or other entity.

Phishing emails are designed to look like they were sent from someone the recipient knows in order to make them feel comfortable enough to open them and / or an attachment. This allows a payload to be downloaded which contains the malware or virus that will attempt to steal information from the victim’s computer.

Some phishing emails attempt to lure users to a Web page where they are prompted to enter information such as a social security number, credit card information or other personal information.

Phishing email can be difficult to spot at times. Here are some tips to help decide whether or not to open an email.

  • When in doubt, do not open or click on any links in an email.
  • If you receive an unexpected email with links or attachments, do not open the email. Be on the safe side and email or call the sender to confirm the message.

The information systems department has discovered a helpful online quiz that provides information about spam and phishing emails. 

You can take the quiz here.

]]>
Thu, 13 Nov 2014 14:26:46 -0800
4264:19463 <![CDATA[Halfway there! Vision 2020 campaign soars.]]> Dr. Richard Hart It’s official! Loma Linda University Health’s monumental vision for the future, “Vision 2020: The Campaign for a Whole Tomorrow,” has passed the halfway point. As of this week, we have commitments and cash in hand for $182 million, which puts us more than halfway to our $360 million philanthropic goal. This figure represents $33 million raised since the campaign kick-off event on July 15, 2014.

That day was the big “Reveal,” the date we moved from several years of planning and ended the silent phase. With the announcement of Carol and Dennis Troeshes’ commitment of $100 million toward building the Children’s Hospital tower, we took the campaign to the public and detailed our plans for construction, research, scholarship and educational endowments and programs that will change the way we do health care and education for the future.

Since July 15, our development officers in advancement have worked intensely on major gifts. We have conducted six regional events across the United States to bring the message of Vision 2020 to our friends and partners. We continue to refine our strategy for 2015 with great momentum. 

Of course, while we celebrate, we also realize that we still have a formidable goal ahead of us. This campaign represents a bold vision. I would like to acknowledge our advancement team and, most importantly, our generous donors for their part in bringing us to this historic halfway point. We look forward to the future of Vision 2020 with great confidence and deep faith.

Sincerely,

 

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

]]>
Thu, 13 Nov 2014 14:22:51 -0800
4264:19451 <![CDATA[Notes from the President]]> Dr. Richard Hart   November 2014
IN THIS ISSUE

Sharing who we are

Telling our story. How well do we do it? How much should we do it? To whom do we share it? For what reason? These are questions we often face as we seek the best balance between talking and listening, caring and sharing. We all receive messages from various organizations telling us theStory cloud on chalkboard great things they are doing or have done. It somehow seems a bit hollow for most, a self-serving proclamation that has become the norm in our information-saturated culture. One of our “core values” is Humility, the valuable trait of not putting one’s self forward, of giving credit to others where deserved, and of not seeking credit for what you may have done.

How does this apply to institutions? Is there value in being humble at the institutional level? Or are we the “best-kept secret around”? I have just returned from Atlanta, where we were invited by one of our notable “grateful patients” to share our story with a number of his prominent and successful friends. Most hardly knew of Loma Linda, our unique history, or our faith-based heritage. So it was with some thought that we discussed what our message should be. Do we emphasize our research impact on the world, which is not insignificant? Do we share our worldwide footprint of alumni and mission hospitals, our community connections and the plans for expanding that? At the core of all this is our commitment to producing graduates with solid core values that guide their professional lives. A quick search showed 220 grads within 20 miles of Atlanta, including 66 physicians and dentists. That is pretty impressive for a small California school. And nearly 50,000 of these committed alumni are now serving around the world.

A quick review of the research contributions from our own faculty and alumni is also quite impressive. And these are just the ones I can think of right now. Roger Barnes developed the trans urethral prostatectomy technique, or TURP, saving many men from open abdominal surgery for benign prostatic hypertrophy. Edward Hon developed the initial technique for fetal monitoring, assessing fetal distress during labor and delivery. Melvin Judkins developed the Judkins coronary catheter, making coronary angiography safer and easier. Len Bailey introduced infant heart transplantation to the world, refining the techniques for all. Jim Slater followed his dream and developed the first hospital-based proton treatment and research unit, now emulated by others. And Gary Fraser is uncovering new findings in helping Americans be healthy through the Adventist Health Study. Each of these, and many others, are a legitimate part of our heritage, a valuable contribution to the world whether they know it or not!

The past year and present initiatives

Back on campus, with the year-end holidays approaching, let me reflect on this past year. What a year it has been. With major changes in the medical center leadership, the launch of our Vision 2020 campaign, a major reorganization of the Loma Linda corporations under discussion, regional health care strategies emerging, and the planned groundbreaking of our San Bernardino campus on December 10, we have many major initiatives underway. Let me update on each of these.

From the incredible $100 million gift of Dennis and Carol Troesh, announced on July 15, our Vision 2020 campaign has continued to gain momentum. We are now at an aggregate commitment of $182 million. Vision 2020 logoThough a great beginning, we still have a long way to go, and recognize that many smaller gifts will be needed to reach our goal of $360 million by the year 2020. Plans for utilizing those funds are also moving ahead rapidly. The architects for the new hospitals are widely engaged across campus with many focus groups guiding our planning of “An academic medical center for the future.” Plans for the new research building, which will house our Wholeness Institute, are also moving ahead, with many details being worked on to create an innovative environment. I am delighted to see the enthusiasm on campus for each of these major expansions as we seek to meet our growing needs.

One Loma Linda, as our corporate reorganization strategy is called here, has captured the support of the campus family. By unifying around our common mission, we will enable strategies and decisions to be made and implemented more effectively. Our intent is to discuss these plans at our board meetings in December. This strategy follows the organizational structure of the most successful health systems in the country, like Mayo, Cleveland Clinic, and Kaiser Permanente. They have learned to focus and coordinate their decisions for the entire organization’s common good. As one of our alumni who works at Mayo commented when some Loma Linda leaders visited there a few years ago, our folks “went away sorrowful,” knowing our system was not as unified as Mayo’s. We intend to take the first step toward fixing that with these changes in our organizational structure.

On December 10, we will have the groundbreaking of our new San Bernardino campus. This is a major milestone for Loma Linda, linking our future with our community. It is my privilege today, Nov. 14, to give the keynote address at a “Community Gathering for Excellence” at the National Orange Show facility in San Bernardino. This annual event, coordinated by the San Bernardino City Unified School Ellsworth Wareham at podiumDistrict, is a highlight each year of the progress that is being made in the city. They are delighted that we are now a self-proclaimed partner with them to address the many challenges they face. And as I regularly remind them, this is also good for us, providing quality service opportunities for our faculty and students. I will share more about this next month.

Several highlights of the past weeks were the 100th birthday celebration of Ellsworth Wareham, longtime head of our Overseas Heart Surgery Team, with its remarkable record of establishing open-heart surgery programs in 14 countries around the world. Learn more about Dr. Wareham in this video profile: http://bit.ly/111Zt50.

Then a week later we hosted a Global Healthcare Conference, with 120 leaders from 33 hospitals in 22 different countries. The progress each institution is making as part of Adventist Health International is impressive. Probably the most moving portion of the conference was the Friday evening program when doctors Gillian Seton and James Appel shared their personal stories and feelings about working at Cooper Adventist Hospital in Monrovia, Liberia. They kept the hospital open during the chaotic days of the Ebola epidemic. You cannot help but be proud of our young alumni as they willingly take on challenges of this magnitude. You can see their story at www.ahiglobal.org/main/front-lines-of-the-ebola-war. They are, indeed, making the world a better place!

May your Thanksgiving provide you with memories and joys of family and friends.

Sincerely,

 

Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

]]>
Thu, 13 Nov 2014 13:59:48 -0800
4264:19432 <![CDATA[Children's Hospital reaches effective license date]]> Administrative message The long-anticipated Children’s Hospital separate license will be issued with an effective date of Nov. 16, 2014.

The Children’s Hospital now meets all licensing requirements and is moving forward with the next steps of finalizing the split with Loma Linda University Medical Center. The system cutover in LLEAP will begin Saturday night, Nov. 15, and will take effect at midnight Sunday, Nov. 16.

Thank you to everyone for the hard work and effort that has gone into making this dream a reality.

]]>
Thu, 13 Nov 2014 10:25:49 -0800
4264:19191 <![CDATA[Alert -- increased vehicle crime]]> Administrative message Security officers at Loma Linda University Health have recently noticed a drastic increase in vehicle crimes on campus. Specifically, 1990s Hondas and Toyotas have been targeted.

“Although we have apprehended a vehicle burglary suspect with a criminal history, we would like to encourage students, staff, faculty and visitors to be especially vigilant and aware of suspicious behavior,” says John Marshall, interim director, department of security.

The security team is working with local law enforcement to address this crime increase.

Even though most of the activity has targeted Hondas and Toyotas, all automobile owners should be aware of the potential for car thefts and or break-ins. Here are some important reminders:

• Do not leave valuables anywhere inside your vehicle, such as cell phones, global positioning systems (GPS), laptop computers and cases, MP3 players, chargers, book bags, handbags, brief cases, wallets, loose change, and gym bags. Take the items with you or leave them at home. If you must store items in your vehicle trunk, do so before you arrive at your destination.

• Remove your keys from the ignition.

• Lock your vehicle and close all windows.

• Use a vehicle alarm system or other anti-theft device.

• Report missing or stolen vehicles immediately.

• Do not confront suspects, but be a good witness by noting their physical descriptions, clothing, actions, direction of travel and vehicle, if any. 

Report suspicious activity to the department of security at 909-558-4320. It is also possible to use an emergency “blue light” phone located in most parking lots, or dial 911. 

]]>
Thu, 06 Nov 2014 14:14:56 -0800
4264:19187 <![CDATA[Family health fair reaches community with message of wellness ]]> Heather Reifsnyder A beloved community event? The 1,500-plus people who attended the 37th annual Family Health Fair at Loma Linda University Health on Oct. 26 attested that it is. More than 30 booths focusing on wholeness of body and mind welcomed visitors at the event, held at Drayson Center.

The “health” part of the title included free flu shots for fairgoers ages 3 and above, wellness screenings such as blood pressure and BMI measurements, aerobics demonstrations, and presentations on making healthy smoothies.

As to the “fair” part, attendees enjoyed attractions such as a healthy black-bean burger bar, petting zoo, face painting, a stilt walker, caricature artists, and educational games.

Loma Linda University Health also distributed backpacks full of school supplies to kids.

The annual health fair stems from the commitment of Loma Linda University Health to raise health for residents of the area.

“We want to stay ahead of the game in sharing the wellness message for a healthier, whole tomorrow for the community,” says Gian Dudley, events specialist, Loma Linda University Health.

]]>
Thu, 06 Nov 2014 14:10:24 -0800
4264:19185 <![CDATA[Triumphing over depression: Stephanie's story]]> Advancement films ]]> Stephanie knows what it’s like to battle depression. She was treated at the LLU Behavioral Medicine Center in Redlands and Murrieta and says the treatment she received saved her life. “Stephanie’s Story” was shown at the Behavioral Medicine Center Seeds of Hope event last month. View her incredible story here.

]]>
Thu, 06 Nov 2014 14:07:19 -0800
4264:19182 <![CDATA[Review your benefits -- open enrollment ends Nov. 15]]> Administrative message Open enrollment period for benefits began Nov. 1, and employees have until Nov. 15 to submit requests regarding health coverage, life insurance, or flexible spending accounts. Reenrollment for flexible spending accounts for 2015 is required.

This applies to employees of LLU Medical Center, Behavioral Medicine Center, Children’s Hospital, Shared Services, Health System, and Loma Linda-Inland Empire Consortium for Healthcare Education. (LLU employees are on a different enrollment schedule for health coverage, and LLUMC–Murrieta has a separate plan.)

To review your current (2014) benefit selections, visit the benefits section of PeoplePortal and select “Benefits Summary.”

To make elections for 2015, follow these steps.

  1. Log on to https://peopleportal.llu.edu. For log-on assistance or password resets, call the help desk at 909-558-8008 or extension 48889, option #2.
  2. Find the “Employee Self Service” section.
  3. Select “Benefits.”
  4. Select “Benefits Enrollment.”
  5. Click “Select.” If multiple events are open, please complete the oldest event first.
  6. Review all election choices: health plan, life insurance, flexible spending account, etc.
  7. Click “Edit” to make changes to your benefits. Please remember to waive the benefits you do not want, and ensure that you have named at least one beneficiary for your employee life insurance.
  8. Click “Submit” to proceed to the authorization notice.
  9. Read the authorization notice and click “Authorize” to send your final choices to the department of talent management services–benefits for review.
  10. Click “OK” when you receive confirmation on your screen.
  11. Print the confirmation page for your records.
  12. Provide all required documents mentioned on PeoplePortal or as prompted by the departments of talent management services–benefits and risk management.

Note: If your status does not indicate submitted, then you have not successfully completed the submission process.

If you would like additional assistance with completing open enrollment, please call 909-651-4114 or extension 14114 for personalized help. You may reach this call center number after hours on the dates listed below. Please have your current username and password available at the time of the call. 

Thursday, November 13  — 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Friday, November 14  — 2:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Questions?

• If you have benefits questions, please email benefits@llu.edu.

• If you have questions about the enrollment process, call or email PeopleSoft support at 909-651-4114 or extension 14114 or peoplesoftsupport@llu.edu.

• If you have questions about your health plan, including Wholeness Plan activities, contact risk management at 909-651-4010.

]]>
Thu, 06 Nov 2014 14:03:01 -0800
4264:19180 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- avoid the spread of illness at work]]> Don't let your workplace become a source of infection during cold and flu season. How? First, experts recommend a flu shot; see last week’s Tip for Living It to learn how to get the shot at Loma Linda University Health.

What else? Flu and cold viruses are spread through sneezing, coughing, and touching contaminated surfaces such as doorknobs, faucets and desks — where viruses can live for hours.

Limit your exposure with these tips from the online Health Library for Loma Linda University Health.

  • Wash hands frequently. Scrub with soap and warm water for 15 to 20 seconds. The scrubbing action dislodges germs so that you can wash them away. If soap and water are unavailable, use an alcohol-based gel or wipe.
  • Don’t touch your face. Once a virus gets on your hands, it still has to get inside your body. Touching your eyes, nose, or mouth gives it easy access.
  • Use a disinfectant. Clean surfaces such as telephones and keyboards regularly, especially if you share them with others.

If you do become sick, staying home may be wise, especially if you are:

  • Coughing or sneezing
  • Feverish
  • Nauseated, vomiting, or have diarrhea
  • Too ill to do your job.

And when sick, avoid shaking hands, use tissues to cover coughs and sneezes, and wash hands or use an alcohol-based gel or wipe after coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose.

Full article: http://healthlibrary.lomalindahealth.org/Library/Wellness/AtWork/1,2867

 

]]>
Thu, 06 Nov 2014 13:58:52 -0800
4264:19178 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- A trans-Pacific friendship]]> Heather Reifsnyder On Oct. 31, 1989, a groundbreaking ceremony for a Chinese hospital special to Loma Linda University Health was held — Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital. The three random winners who correctly identified the hospital’s namesake are Faith Hughes, Nic Ynostroza, and James Keller. Please email pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

Shaw, a major entertainment mogul in Asia, chose to give back through opening a medical facility in Hangzhou, China — and he wanted the Seventh-day Adventist Church to be involved in its operations. Why? Because of the excellent care his mother had received at an Adventist hospital many year earlier.

Since Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital opened in 1994, it has enjoyed a long partnership and exchange program with Loma Linda University Health in which Chinese and American counterparts have shared expertise in areas such as management, nursing, medicine, teaching, and research. Many such individuals were reunited earlier this year during the hospital’s 20th anniversary celebration in Hangzhou.

“The Loma Linda University Health–Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital partnership is envied today across China and indeed across all of Asia,” Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health, said in his May 2014 newsletter about the partnership.

Shortly after the anniversary celebrations in China, back in Loma Linda, an executive from Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital received the Global Service Award from Loma Linda University during the School of Medicine graduation ceremony. Who was this person?

Please e-mail the correct answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, Nov. 11, for the chance to be a random winner. One answer per person.

]]>
Thu, 06 Nov 2014 13:52:59 -0800
4264:19158 <![CDATA[Loma Linda University Health construction update]]> Nancy Yuen Last week, an article highlighted the Business Center face lift.

This week, two more construction projects are highlighted.

Loma Linda University Medical Center — lobby level seismic retrofit project

Beginning Nov. 10, the Loma Linda University Health lobby level seismic retrofit project will bring a change to the gift shop services.

The estimated timeline for phase 1 of the seismic construction project is 118 days. Based on the space needs of the seismic construction team to accomplish their work, a significant amount of gift shop storage and wrapping space will be lost. 

As a result, gift wrap services for the 2014 Christmas holiday will not be offered. Gift wrapping supplies will be on sale, however.

30-inch thermal energy storage tank project

As part of the Loma Linda University Health Vision 2020 campus transformation project, the power plant is increasing the capacity of several of its utilities. 

The first of these projects is to expand the size of the connection between the thermal energy storage tank and the power plant to increase cooling capacity. 

This involves the installation of two 30-inch chilled underground water pipes. At its current state, the project has completed digging the trench that is about eight feet wide and varies in depth by six feet to 17 feet. 

The piping is now being placed into the trench by a crane and will be welded together, insulated and then covered up. The project started the first week in August and will continue until January 2015.

Parking

Lot W to reopen: The construction department is making efforts to minimize the impact of the 30-inch thermal energy storage tank project on employees, students and guests. Lot W, which was closed because of the project, will reopen on Friday, Nov. 14.

School of Dentistry evening closure: For three nights (Nov. 11 through 13), the presence of large equipment needed for the 30-inch thermal energy storage tank project will necessitate closing the School of Dentistry parking lot from 4:30 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. Alternative parking is available in the new West Hall Parking Structure.

]]>
Thu, 06 Nov 2014 12:11:39 -0800
4264:18976 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- name that famous person]]> Heather Reifsnyder Joshua Bowlin, Emily Fraser, and Margaret Schiermeyer, you are the three random winners correctly answering last week’s trivia challenge: the singer who will be headlining this year’s ThankSharing event is Nichole Nordeman. Please e-mail pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

Tomorrow is October 31, which, in addition to being a fall holiday, is the 25th anniversary of the groundbreaking ceremony for a hospital in China that has enjoyed a long friendship with Loma Linda University Health. Who is this hospital named after?

Please e-mail the correct answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, Nov. 4, for the chance to be a random winner. One answer per person. 

]]>
Thu, 30 Oct 2014 15:47:43 -0700
4264:18974 <![CDATA[ThankSharing food drive begins on campus]]> Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Health is holding a ThankSharing food drive from Oct. 31 to Nov. 20. Non-perishable food items can be dropped off at the locations listed above.

For more information, please contact Kathy McMillian at kmcmillan@llu.edu or extension 48406.

]]>
Thu, 30 Oct 2014 15:43:38 -0700
4264:18972 <![CDATA[ThankSharing event to offer concert and community]]> ThankSharing is a time for Loma Linda University Health to come together with the community to enjoy inspirational music.

The 2014 ThankSharing concert will be held Friday, November 14, at 7:00 p.m. at The Packinghouse in Redlands, 27165 W. San Bernardino Ave.

Admission is free with a non-perishable food donation. The donations will help three local food banks.

Headlining the concert is national Christian recording artist Nichole Nordeman. Winner of multiple Gospel Music Association Dove Awards, Nordeman’s best-known songs include “Holy,” “Legacy,” “Brave” and “What If.” Learn more about her at nicholenordeman.com. Also performing will be Roxie Jane, Chris Picco, Khari Washington, and Kay-C.

For more information, visit www.thanksharing.org or call 1-877-LLUMC-4U.

]]>
Thu, 30 Oct 2014 15:38:43 -0700
4264:18969 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- beat the flu]]> Nancy Yuen Do you know the differences between the cold and the flu? Flu symptoms may include fever, headache, general aches and pains, fatigue, and weakness that can last up to three weeks. Other symptoms are sneezing and sore throat, chest discomfort and cough.

Colds differ from the flu in that fever and headache are rare, while extreme exhaustion never occurs. Aches and pains are occasional while a stuffy nose, sneezing and hacking cough, sore throat, and chest discomfort are common cold symptoms.

Flu can develop into a serious disease that may lead to hospitalization and even death. The flu virus can be spread beginning one day before symptoms appear and for five to seven days after becoming sick. Some people with the virus have no symptoms but can spread the flu to others.

According to Safety Matters Newsletter, the annual flu vaccination is the primary means of preventing influenza and its complications. The Centers for Disease Control estimates that only 40 percent of health care workers in the U.S. are vaccinated against influenza annually. The issue is so critical that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ “Action Plan to Prevent Healthcare Associated Infections” has established that 90 percent of health care workers receive the flu vaccine annually by 2020. In the state of California, there is a law requiring 100 percent of health care workers to either receive the flu vaccination or sign a declination.

While the timing of flu outbreaks is unpredictable, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, seasonal flu activity can begin in October and continue as late as May.

Flu shots are being offered in many of the University’s schools for their students, faculty, and staff. Additional 2013-2014 seasonal flu shot availability includes:

Where to get your flu shot

Employee health services

Employee health services will offer flu shots at each of the Loma Linda University Health employee benefits fairs (Tuesday through Thursday, Nov. 4 to 6) except Highland Springs. Flu shots are available to Loma Linda University Health employees, medical staff members, and volunteers — don’t forget to bring your badge.

Those who would like to schedule their shot before or after fairs, call employee health services at (909) 558-8797. Employee health services is open from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and is closed for lunch

Center for Health Promotion

Flu shots are offered to students, staff, employees, and the public. Loma Linda University Health students, staff, and employees should bring their risk management card (CHP will bill risk management; no co-pay or fee will be charged).

According to Tami Jacques, RN, clinic manager, Loma Linda University students may request their flu shot any time the clinic is open (8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. Monday to Thursday, and 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Friday). Most schools are also scheduling special clinics for their students.

All others should request their flu shot during International Travel Clinic hours (Wednesdays, 1:30 to 4:00 p.m.).

The Center for Health Promotion offers two types of flu shot: intramuscular, Quadravalent $38; and high-dose $63.50. According to Mrs. Jacques, the high-dose flu shot is recommended for seniors age 65 and better. The quadravalent vaccine contains 4 strains of the flu virus and is available in a very limited supply. After that supply is exhausted, only the usual trivalent (3 strains) will be available.

Center for Health Promotion is located on campus in Evans Hall, Suite 111 (24785 Stewart Street). For more information, call The Center for Health Promotion at (909) 558-4594.

]]>
Thu, 30 Oct 2014 15:12:26 -0700
4264:18962 <![CDATA[Employees recognized during 2014 Spiritual Life Service Awards banquet]]> Nancy Yuen On Tuesday, Oct. 28, 36 Loma Linda University Health employees were recognized during the 10th Annual Spiritual Life & Wholeness Leadership Banquet. Celebrating with them were family members, loved ones, and colleagues. The banquet was held in the Wong Kerlee International Conference Center.

Spiritual Life Service Awards are presented to employees in recognition of a vibrant faith in God that leads to extraordinary care for the spiritual well-being of others and an effective ability to bring hope and meaning in the midst of educational or health care challenges.

Recipients of the 2014 Spiritual Life Service Award are: Ismari Altamirano, Melissa Backstrom, Lydia Calinisan, Barbara Cassimy, Larry Chinnock, David Conkerite II, Intithar Elias, Vanti Enoch-Wisang, Dragana Gajic, Robert Halim, Ganim Hanna, Traci Johnson, Regina Joseph, Jerome Kabayiza, Cheryl Keiser, Scott Martell, Mayda Martinez, Susan Masih, Michele McCann, Lisa McGinnis, Ruth Miller, Rashid Mosavin, Jeje Noval, Madge Oh, Carrie Parrish, Cindi Rafoth, Elyse Ratnour, Keturah Reed, Eva Robledo, Summer San Lucas, Frank Sirna, Arthur Smith, Marilyn Sneyd, Alva Srour, Jennifer Vazquez and Jelome Velasco.

The 2014 Spiritual Life & Wholeness Leadership Award was presented to Wil Alexander, PhD, founding director, Center for Spiritual Life & Wholeness, and professor emeritus, Loma Linda University Schools of Medicine and Religion.

]]>
Thu, 30 Oct 2014 10:54:34 -0700
4264:18949 <![CDATA[Business Center receives a face-lift]]> Nancy Yuen Visitors to the Loma Linda University Health Welcome Center or market will have noticed construction taking place.

Renovation of the Business Center Exteriors project began on October 23. According to John Gray, Loma Linda University Shared Services construction and architectural services department, the exterior of the building is being updated to reflect the look of the north side of the building (the Student Center).

The first phase of the project includes replacement of concrete sidewalks, old windows and building trim. New planters will also be installed.

The scheduled work will begin at the east and south sides of the building and finish at the west side. Completion of the project is scheduled for January, 2015.

]]>
Thu, 30 Oct 2014 09:03:33 -0700
4264:18946 <![CDATA[Grow Together -- Every$ONE can make a difference]]> Advancement films The Grow Together program at Loma Linda University Health provides a way for employees to show their passion by giving back.

See what could happen if every employee gave $1, or even $10, per paycheck. The impact would be incredible!

Watch the video here.

]]>
Wed, 29 Oct 2014 16:46:39 -0700
4264:18879 <![CDATA[Loma Linda University again ranks No. 1 in national survey on job meaning]]> Jiggs Gallagher Update -- The following story appeared in News of the Week on September 11. Since that time, PayScale has released new data from their survey of American college and university alumni. This time they polled graduate and professional school alumni, and once again, Loma Linda University alumni scored highest in the nation (91 percent) on the question, "How much satisfaction do you get from your job, and do you feel your job helps make the world a better place?" The nearest second-place university scored only 76 percent on this question. The Wall Street Journal carried the follow-up story on graduate alumni on its website on October 22.

 Loma Linda University ranked No. 1 in national survey on job meaning

Here’s the answer to a burning trivia question. Out of 1.4 million college and university alumni surveyed, which higher education organization’s graduates scored highest on this question: How meaningful do you feel your job is? The answer:  Loma Linda University.

Every year, an organization called PayScale surveys bachelor’s alumni from over 1,000 U.S. colleges and universities. In addition to collecting data on income, they also ask: Does your work make the world a better place? This year, Loma Linda University alumni ranked in the No. 1 spot; 91 percent of Loma Linda University bachelor’s graduates said working in their jobs helped to “make the world a better place.”

“I’m delighted by this ranking,” says Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health. “As our alumni are living out our mission every day, bringing wholeness to all the ends of the earth, this recognition makes me proud of the heritage of our university, the spirit and dedication of our faculty and staff, and all of our medical professionals who train our students for lives of real service — locally, nationally and globally.”

The ranking put Loma Linda far ahead of Ivy League schools such as Harvard, Yale and Princeton, often ranked in the top three spots on some college surveys. In the PayScale alumni survey on meaningful jobs, only about 65 percent of the three Ivies’ alumni answered yes to the question.

The next three institutions following LLU were University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, Texas, and Medical College of Georgia in Augusta (both tied for 88 percent), and Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (86 percent).

In the same survey, Loma Linda University was also ranked among the top for the highest starting salary.

The Atlantic and The Washington Post have reported the news of LLU’s No. 1 ranking.

 

Read about the most recent PayScale survey results here.

 

]]>
Thu, 23 Oct 2014 11:08:50 -0700
4264:18878 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- Fall into seasonal indulgences]]> Courtney Beckwith Haas It is that time of year again when the leaves begin to turn, there is a crisp breeze in the air and everyone is wearing boots and scarves. Maybe that is just wishful thinking here in Southern California, but like all good fall lovers we still have one thing that makes us love the change of seasons. Pumpkins!

Pumpkin pie, pumpkin bars and pumpkin spice lattes. There is just something about inserting pumpkin into everything that makes us think fall. For everyone who loves pumpkin, this next part is going to be exciting.

Guess what? Pumpkins are good for you. Well not necessarily in the previously mentioned forms, but studies do show that pumpkin in your diet is actually a good thing.

Following are six reasons to include pumpkin in your diet:

  • Weight loss: because pumpkin is high in fiber, it causes you to feel fuller for longer due to slowed digestion.
  • Sharper vision: pumpkins are filled with beta-carotene that causes their vibrant orange color. Beta-Carotene converts to vitamin A, which is important for maintaining healthy eyes.
  • Strengthens immunity: just as vitamin A is great for your eyes, it also helps build up your immunity. In addition to this, pumpkin is also a complete source of vitamin C, which helps fight off colds and hastens recovery.
  • Healthy, clean skin: create a facial mask by simply mixing pumpkin puree, an egg, honey and milk. Simply apply it for 20 minutes and then wash it away.
  • May decrease cancer risk: according to a CNN report, researchers have discovered that eating a diet high in beta-carotene may reduce the risk of contracting several types of cancers, including prostate and lung.
  • May help treat diabetes: while not confirmed yet, studies suggest that pumpkin has been shown to reduce blood glucose levels, improve glucose tolerance and increase the amount of insulin that the body produces. Until we know for sure, it definitely can’t hurt to eat more pumpkin!

So go ahead and eat more pumpkin! Embrace fall in all its glory and get creative with your pumpkin recipes. Why not? It’s good for you! Go out and Live It!

 

]]>
Thu, 23 Oct 2014 10:59:33 -0700
4264:18870 <![CDATA[Loma Linda University Health nationally recognized for organ donation]]> Larry Kidder Loma Linda University Medical Center (LLUMC) and Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital (LLUCH) were both recently recognized by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services as well as OneLegacy, headquartered in Los Angeles.

OneLegacy is a non-profit organization dedicated to saving lives through organ and tissue donation in the seven-county greater Los Angeles area. The organization has a membership of more than 200 hospitals, 11 transplant centers, and a diverse population of 19 million, making it the largest organ and tissue recovery organization in the world.

LLUMC was among 237 health care organizations nationwide designated as a “Silver Medal Hospital” by the Department of Health Human Services, in recognition of excellence in both organ procurement and transplantation.

“These 237 hospitals achieved 75 percent or greater collaborative conversion rate, and one of either 10 percent or greater donation after circulatory determination of death (DCD), or 3.75 or greater organs transplanted per donor or greater (OTPD),” according to the Health Resources and Services Administration.

In addition, both LLUMC and LLUCH were recognized during “The Donation & Transplantation Symposium,” held October 21 at the Fairplex Conference Center in Pomona.

Leonard L. Bailey, MD, infant heart transplant pioneer and chief of cardiothoracic surgery at LLUMC, was given the honor of presenting the awards during the 2014 hospital awards and 2015 Donate Life Rose Parade float unveiling at the symposium. He received a standing ovation when he was introduced.

Bailey particularly enjoyed presenting an award for the “most livers transplanted over [a] 12-month period” to LLUMC representative Takkin Lo, MD, MPH, director of hyperbaric and wound medicine, and pulmonary and critical care medicine.

A third “Process Excellence” award recognized both LLUMC and LLUCH for a “conversion rate greater than 75 percent, with a successful DCD program (greater than 10 percent DCD), 6-plus eligible.”

]]>
Thu, 23 Oct 2014 10:18:07 -0700
4264:18864 <![CDATA[Senior Health and Fitness Fair draws 2,000 seniors]]> Larry Kidder Approximately 2,000 seniors from surrounding communities stopped by Loma Linda University Drayson Center on October 22 to take part in the 12th annual Senior Health and Fitness Fair.

The theme was 1950s “Happy Days are Here Again.” Drayson Center senior wellness program staff and volunteers dressed in bobby socks, poodle skirts, letterman sweaters, and saddle shoes.

Opsahl gymnasium was alive with 1950s music, including sentimental renditions by the Velvet Frogs Barbershop Quartet. Outside, a dozen restored classic cars drew attention as guests reminisced old times.

Guests were treated to nearly 90 booths featuring a variety of services and products targeted to seniors, as well as entertainment and activities ranging from floor and chair aerobics to a Tai Chi demonstration.

The fair took place from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Health screenings and assessments included respiratory, coronary, orthopedic, diabetes, blood glucose, cholesterol, PSA, body composition, and more.

Omintrans, the Riverside Transit Agency, Premier Medical Transportation, and the South Coast AQMD were on hand to talk about transportation.

Guide Dogs of the Desert brought several canine partners to interact with fair attendees. The free popcorn proved to be a major attraction. Drawings and door prizes throughout the morning added another level of excitement.

A prayer station provided a spiritual perspective for attendees. County services for seniors were well-represented, as well as non-profit and for-profit senior health-care services.

“This is one of our most successful health fairs ever,” says Romy Niblack, senior wellness program coordinator. “We had so many pleased seniors who truly enjoyed themselves.”

“Our seniors are one of the largest groups that use the Drayson Center,” comments Donald Sease, MBA, director. “We are happy to play a role in keeping our seniors in the community healthy and independent.”

]]>
Thu, 23 Oct 2014 09:49:01 -0700
4264:18853 <![CDATA[Grow Together: Ryan and Sara's story]]> Nancy Yuen
The culture at Loma Linda University Health is one of service, giving back to the community, and creating the best experience possible for our patients and students. 
 
Employees participate in the Loma Linda University Health Grow Together program for many reasons. Ryan and Sara recently shared their story.

After experiencing a terrible accident, Ryan was rushed to Loma Linda University Medical Center. Because of his extensive injuries, his doctors gave him little to no chance of surviving. While in the hospital, Ryan received tremendous care and his recovery was miraculous.

Now Ryan and Sara are participating in the Grow Together program, giving back to show their thanks for the lifesaving care he received.

Watch their incredible story here.

 

 
 
]]>
Wed, 22 Oct 2014 18:10:29 -0700
4264:18852 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- ThankSharing]]> Nancy Yuen Of the 98 responses to last week’s trivia of the week, 92 people correctly responded that Joan Coggin, MD, joined with Ellsworth E. Wareham, MD, to co-found the Overseas Heart Surgery Team in 1963. The three randomly selected winners are: Marilyn Winters, Obed Rutebuka and Faye Barhite.

Winners, please email pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

For this week’s question, we turn to thoughts of friends, families and neighbors. On Nov. 14, at 7:00 p.m., Loma Linda University Health will give back to our community during the 7th Annual ThankSharing Concert and Food Drive in Redlands. Which famous musical artist will headline the 2014 ThankSharing event?

Please email the correct answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight on Tuesday, Oct. 28, for a chance to be a random winner. One answer per person.

]]>
Wed, 22 Oct 2014 17:39:38 -0700
4264:18851 <![CDATA[Center for Christian Bioethics begins film series with screening of 'Contagion' ]]> Nancy Yuen The Center for Christian Bioethics begins its 2014 – 2015 Ethics in Great Films series with a screening of "Contagion.” The 2011 film, starring Matt Damon, Laurence Fishburne, Kate Winslet and Jude Law will be shown Thursday, October 23, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. in Centennial Complex, Room 3113.

The film’s story highlights ethical dilemmas that arise as a fictional epidemic spreads globally and officials strive to contain the outbreak. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, Georgia, served as one of the locations where "Contagion" was produced. Read more about the science behind the film here.

Following the Thursday screening, Roy Branson, PhD, director, Center for Christian Bioethics, will host a question and answer session.

There is no charge for the screening.

]]>
Wed, 22 Oct 2014 17:17:52 -0700
4264:18796 <![CDATA[Loma Linda University Health's Family Health Fair will provide fun for the whole family]]> Contributed report Are you looking for something fun to do with the whole family? Plan now to attend the Loma Linda University Health's Family Health Fair on Sunday, October 26, at the Drayson Center from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Fairgoers will enjoy exercise, healthy fresh food, and health information -- all important parts of wholeness.

The fair will offer free flu shots, health screenings, food and games. There will also be a chance to win a Disneyland family package for four with a two-night stay at a nearby hotel.

For more information, call 1-877-LLUMC-4U.

]]>
Thu, 16 Oct 2014 11:52:01 -0700
4264:18792 <![CDATA[Proton treatment for breast cancer patients]]> Keturah Reed A clinical trial at Loma Linda University’s James M. Slater, MD Proton Treatment and Research Center shows promising news for breast cancer patients.

The study, “Partial breast radiation therapy with proton beam: 5-year results with cosmetic outcomes,” reveals encouraging survival rates and cosmetic outcomes when proton therapy is used on patients with early stage invasive (non-lobular) breast cancer.

The phase-two clinical trial followed 100 patients who received proton therapy and were monitored for an average of five years following treatment. According to the results, the in-breast, recurrence-free survival rate was 97 percent with minimal side effects to the breast, lungs and heart. The cosmetic results determined by patients and physicians ranged from good to excellent in 90 percent of cases.

The study began in 2004 and represents the largest data available anywhere on this topic.

“With proton therapy the size of the radiation area is reduced significantly, lessening radiation exposure to the heart, lungs and other parts of the body. The proton beam allows us to do this better than any other type of radiation treatment,” said David Bush, MD, vice-chair of the department of radiation at Loma Linda University Medical Center and one of the study’s principal investigators.

“This study confirms that proton therapy effectively eradicates tumors while also preserving the cosmetic appearance of the breast,” Bush said. Click here to read more about the study.

Mary Hicks, who turned to proton therapy at Loma Linda University Medical Center in her fight against breast cancer, shares her story in an inspiring video. Watch her story here.

]]>
Thu, 16 Oct 2014 11:28:09 -0700
4264:18791 <![CDATA[Loma Linda University Health presents the 2014 Benefits Fair -- 'Benefits tour']]> Nancy Yuen Employees sometimes don't realize that benefits are an important part of the compensation offered by Loma Linda University Health. At Loma Linda University Health these include health coverage, retirement benefits, life insurance plans, and use of the Drayson Center to name a few.

Titled “Benefits Tour,” this year’s annual benefits fair (LLUMC; LLUBMC; LLUHS; LLUSS; LLUCH) will follow a musical theme. There will be tasty treats to enjoy and fun and fabulous giveaways from Loma Linda University Health (including the chance to win an iPad mini with Beats headphones). The fair will also provide employees the opportunity to ask representatives questions about benefits and receive immediate answers. Employees should be sure to visit the Open Enrollment booth if they need personalized assistance to change their benefit elections via the PeoplePortal website. The fair will be held at various locations on Nov. 4, 5, and 6.

In addition, during the fair employees may easily complete corporate compliance requirements including fire extinguisher training. Free flu shots will also be available.

]]>
Thu, 16 Oct 2014 11:05:59 -0700
4264:18788 <![CDATA[Medical mission doctors join together to 'Embrace the future']]> Courtney Beckwith Haas Today begins the third Global Healthcare Conference that is held at Loma Linda University every other year. With attendees from all over the world, this conference is an opportunity for health care professionals to come together in a collaboration of learning. The importance of working together and learning from peer health care administrators from around the globe is highly emphasized in this conference environment.

This year’s theme is “Embracing the Future,” with each day filled with programs that pinpoint this idea. From the opening plenary event on Thursday, Oct. 16, to the full day of presentations and group sessions with interactive workshops on Sunday, Oct. 19, a full schedule has been planned for attendees. 

While conference attendance has reached the maximum capacity, there is one event that members of the Loma Linda community are encouraged to attend. A vespers, Friday, Oct. 17 at 7:00 p.m. will be held in Damazo Amphitheater in the Centennial Complex.

Guest speakers and Loma Linda University School of Medicine (LLUSM) alumni Gillian Seton, MD (’08), and James Appel, MD (’00), will present their personal experiences serving as medical missionaries through Adventist Health International (AHI).

Both graduates are serving in the mission field as Deferred Mission Appointees. The evening will be filled with stories of triumph and struggle as Seton and Appel share what they have endured these past few months when dealing with unexpected challenges that came from working in West Africa at Seventh-day Adventist Cooper Hospital.

Those who have registered for the whole conference, or plan to attend the vespers program will be impacted through the heartfelt stories told and lessons learned. Each participant is bringing something to share, and this opportunity provides a unique opportunity to join together to “Embrace the Future.”

To learn more and view the conference via livestream, please visit lluglobal.com/conference.

]]>
Thu, 16 Oct 2014 10:46:12 -0700
4264:18769 <![CDATA['A Walk to Remember' draws grieving families]]> Jiggs Gallagher An estimated 1,500-plus people, most grouped in families with many small children, participated in the Ninth Annual “A Walk to Remember” on the Loma Linda University Health campus on Sunday, October 12.  The ceremony memorializes infants and children lost to the families. 

After registering and receiving T-shirts and other materials, the walkers entered Loma Linda University Church to participate in a solemn but uplifting service. The program featured music, a liturgy, special prayers and a keynote address by author Angie Smith of Nashville, Tennessee, who lost her prematurely born daughter, Audrey, six years ago.  Her child lived only two and a half hours.

“This is the club no one wants to belong to,” Smith said through tears, which were matched by tears in the audience.  “They weighed Audrey when she was born, and her weight was 3 pounds, 2 ounces.  It comforted me somewhat that my baby had a weight in this world,” Smith added.

Then the organizers from Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital distributed gifts to each family as their child’s name flashed on the large screens at the front of the church.  First names like “Faith,” “Grace,” “Strength” and “Chance” appeared in beautiful script on the screens as soft music played. Many women stopped to hug Angie Smith in thanks for her presentation as they moved back to their seats.

Outside, a bagpiper in full regalia playing “Amazing Grace” walked through the crowd as white doves were released.  Then the large group began their quiet walk through Loma Linda, “taking steps for the children who can’t.” 

]]>
Thu, 16 Oct 2014 09:39:55 -0700
4264:18768 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week: Overseas Heart Surgery Team luminaries]]> Nancy Yuen Today’s winners are James Lynch, Cherrie Martin, and Katherine McMillan. They correctly identified occupational therapy as the Loma Linda University program that was approved on March 30, 1962, by the AMA Council on Medical Education. Winners, please email pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days. 

Just one year later, in 1963, the Loma Linda University Overseas Heart Surgery Team was founded, and seven members traveled to Karachi, Pakistan. While there, the team saw 300 patients and performed 44 surgeries.

On Friday, Oct. 10, 2014, members of the Overseas Heart Surgery Team were recognized during a special vespers acknowledging the team’s 50 years of dedicated service. During the program one of the team’s co-founders, Ellsworth E. Wareham, MD, was honored on his 100th birthday. Both Wareham and the team’s other co-founder were present. In 1963, who, with Wareham, co-founded the Overseas Heart Surgery Team?

Please email the correct answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, Oct. 21, for a chance to be a random winner. One answer per person.

]]>
Thu, 16 Oct 2014 09:25:08 -0700
4264:18741 <![CDATA[Notes from the President]]> Dr. Richard Hart   October 2014
IN THIS ISSUE

One Loma Linda

The idea sounds deceptively simple, even obvious. And for most who don’t work here, they may think we are already One Loma Linda. But in fact, this campus is made up of over 35 different corporations, some of necessity and some of historical significance, with occasionally overlapping responsibilities and personnel. The three “core” corporations are the University with its eight professional schools, the Medical Center with its six hospitals, and the Faculty Medical Group with over 800 physicians.

Over the past several decades we have made great progress in bringing many of these corporations closer together. At one point we had around 18 different physician practice groups, organized around each specialty area. As of January this year, these practice groups were all united into one corporation, the Loma Linda University Faculty Medical Group. This has made many issues much easier to handle, such as contracts for clinical services, benefit packages for employees, billing of professional fees, etc. Kudos to each clinical department and the School of Medicine leadership for accomplishing this strategic move.

But now we are faced with an even bigger challenge. To be truly efficient and compete in the new world of health care, we need our hospitals and doctors to pull even closer together, collaborating on protocols and saving costs wherever possible. This will require new management systems that integrate our health professionals and hospital administrators at multiple different levels, all pursuing common objectives. The university can also benefit from closer involvement in the clinical world as well as inter-professional collaboration in the classroom and laboratories.

To accomplish this, our board is now considering a very bold move for Loma Linda. This initiative would unify our three core corporations into one, under one Board of Trustees. In fact, this would finally accomplish what we have talked about for years, but could only take as small steps in the past. Over the years, many of our key departments have gradually expanded to cover the whole enterprise, such as human resources (now called talent management), payroll, legal affairs, risk management, and a number of support services. Before we launched Vision 2020, we took several more steps in this direction by creating the office of advancement, which unified marketing, public relations and philanthropy across campus. We even changed our name to Loma Linda University Health, indicating that the university, hospitals, and doctors were in fact one enterprise. More areas of integration are now in the implementation stage, such as our access call center, our website, and our patient billing offices.

For several months now we have been giving intense study to this One Loma Linda strategy, looking for both the benefits and the risks. This is not a strategy of centralization, but rather one of unification. Few organizations can claim to be following exactly the same mission after 100-plus years. Loma Linda can clearly make that claim, and our intent is to keep that mission at our core into the future. It has served us well as an anchor for all our decisions and will continue to do so. The new integrated corporation will enable us to be even more strategic about our mission of educating quality professionals, providing excellent patient care, and pushing the boundaries of discovery through our research initiatives. As campus leadership and our board discuss this idea, we invite input from each of you on this critical issue for our future development. Our trustees and administration will be conducting due diligence on this issue and expect to make a final decision in the coming months.

Ebola crisis

Before closing, I must update you on our work in West Africa with the Ebola crisis. The hospital there is managed by Adventist Health International (AHI), also based here in Loma Linda. As I mentioned last month, Drs. Gillian Seton and James Appel, along with about 50 local staff, were holding our hospital in Monrovia, Liberia, together, offering surgical services to the many patients who do not have Ebola infections. This became increasingly difficult as patients struggled to find access to any level of health care. Unfortunately, despite their best efforts, several of the hospital staff became infected with Ebola. One has passed away and the others are being treated. We are not sure if their contact came from the community or patients at the hospital. Because of this, the hospital has been temporarily closed, and Gillian and James are now home for some much needed rest. They are fine and are now past the incubation period themselves. They will be sharing their stories at Loma Linda on Friday evening, October 17, at 7:00 p.m. in the Damazo Amphitheater at the Centennial Complex. We are inviting the local community and you are welcome to attend.

Our plans are to reopen the hospital in several more weeks, as the needs are only intensifying. Gillian is prepared to return while James waits for the birth of his third child and then goes back to developing a new hospital in eastern Chad. Several more surgeons have offered to go and help Gillian with what we expect will be an incredible workload for the indefinite future. Please keep these brave young alumni in your prayers, along with all the others in West Africa who are struggling to deal with this modern-day plague of historic proportions.

New school year

Back at Loma Linda, the new academic year has now started in earnest. It always feels good to see the campus bustling with eager students, seeking Loma Linda’s unique offering of mission-focused learning. Our enrollment remains strong at 4,629. We can only house 10 percent of these students in our residence halls, so the remainder of our students are living throughout the community. We need to expand our housing soon!

At our Convocation service last week, starting the new school year, we invited representatives from the nine high schools in the San Bernardino City Unified School District to worship with us. These teachers and students are as excited as we are about our new San Bernardino Campus, where we expect to break ground on December 10. Thank you for your interest and commitment to this incredible place.

Sincerely,

Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

Office of the President, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350

Copyright © 2014 by Loma Linda University

llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 09 Oct 2014 15:25:34 -0700
4264:18734 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- quality ...]]> Heather Reifsnyder A long-awaited stamp of approval came to the College of Medical Evangelists (now Loma Linda University) when the American Medical Association Council on Medical Education and Hospitals gave the college an A rating. Correctly answering that this took place in 1922 were random winners Nicholas Frantz, David LeClaire, and Becky Seeman. Please email pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

Nathan Colwell, secretary of the Council on Medical Education and Hospitals, had been one of the College of Medical Evangelists’ biggest critics for a number of years before he realized the value of its physician training programs and gave the A rating.

Colwell later said in a letter, “You have done wonderful in your school, and I am proud of you; and while you have not converted me to the Seventh-day Sabbath as yet, you have converted me on practically everything else about your medical work.”

Jumping ahead 40 years to 1962 — to March 30 specifically — the AMA Council on Medical Education once again gave its approval to Loma Linda University, this time for a new program. Which health care profession did this program train students for?

Email the correct answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, October 14, for the chance to be a random winner. One answer per person.

]]>
Thu, 09 Oct 2014 14:41:56 -0700
4264:18733 <![CDATA[Paralympic medalist inspires at PossAbilities luncheon]]> James Ponder Amy Purdy, the 2014 Paralympic bronze medalist in snowboarding who recently won the runner-up position on season 18 of “Dancing with the Stars,” was the featured speaker for the PossAbilities Road to Rio Sports Luncheon on Wednesday, October 8, in the Wong Kerlee International Conference Center. During the luncheon Purdy told the enthusiastic audience that she doesn’t let disability — she is a double amputee — interfere with living a life of fulfillment and creativity

Striding confidently to center stage, Purdy shared her remarkable story of recovery from bacterial meningitis. After coming down with what she dismissed as flu-like symptoms at the age of 19, Purdy lapsed into septic shock, which ultimately resulted in the loss of both legs, both kidneys, and her spleen. But as she recovered in bed for a month, Purdy made up her mind to create a brand new future for herself.

By focusing on opportunities rather than limitations, she realized that she suddenly had new options in life. She could, for instance, wear short prosthetic legs when spending time with her vertically challenged boyfriend and taller legs when she went out in public. Purdy concluded her presentation with a suggestion on how to face difficult circumstances. Instead of looking at challenges as bad or negative, we should condition ourselves to see them as blessings, as opportunities to build a positive and creative future for ourselves. Purdy has certainly done that for herself.

Members of the audience — many of whom also have disabilities as well — exploded in appreciative applause in response to her inspirational message.

]]>
Thu, 09 Oct 2014 14:28:43 -0700
4264:18716 <![CDATA[Are you ready to ShakeOut?]]> Nancy Yuen The time to prepare for an earthquake is before it happens. Remember it’s not if, but when.

On Oct. 16 at 10:16 a.m., Loma Linda University Health will participate in the 2014 Great California ShakeOut earthquake drill.

With 37 million people living and working in California, a major earthquake could cause unprecedented devastation. With earthquakes an inevitable part of California’s future, we must act quickly to ensure that disasters do not become catastrophes.

The Great California ShakeOut in October 2013 involved over 9.6 million Californians. The drill is now held annually on the third Thursday of October, and is organized by the Earthquake Country Alliance (www.earthquakecountry.org).  

ShakeOut creates the sense of urgency that is needed for people, organizations and communities to get prepared, to practice what to do to be safe, and to learn what plans need to be improved.

Loma Linda University Health will participate in this year’s ShakeOut with the following objectives:

  • emergency operation plan activation for emergency protocol code triage: external
  • review earthquake life safety steps, by participating in drop, cover and hold on at 10:16 a.m.
  • utilize our emergency notification system to alert students, employees and faculty
  • receive a disaster condition assessment form from every department throughout Loma Linda University Health
  • mobilize damage assessment teams
  • practice building evacuation procedures using relocation points.

Make sure department downtime forms include emergency management forms. The forms may be found by accessing: VIP > Frequently Used > Forms.

On October 16, 10:16 a.m., each department should practice drop, cover and hold on. Once done, please complete the disaster condition assessment form and submit it to the command center using instructions on the form.

For questions, please contact environmental health and safety, ext. 14018.

]]>
Mon, 13 Oct 2014 16:40:00 -0700
4264:18711 <![CDATA[On the frontline of the Ebola war]]> Courtney Beckwith Haas All are invited to join in a special vespers on Oct. 17 at 7:00 p.m. in Damazo Amphitheater, Centennial Complex. Focused on Ebola, this vesper program will feature two deferred mission appointees (DMA) who have just returned from West Africa. 

Loma Linda University School of Medicine alumni Gillian Seton, MD, class of 2008, and James Appel, MD, class of 2000, have dedicated their lives to serving others. Working as DMA’s through Adventist Health International, they have been on site in Monrovia, Liberia.  

Seton and Appel worked tirelessly in the heart of the Ebola outbreak at Cooper Adventist Hospital. Until a few weeks ago Cooper, an Ebola-free zone, was the only hospital still operational in Monrovia. 

The two doctors continued to treat non-Ebola related illnesses, such as malaria, until the hospital was forced to close down when it was suspected that several staff members had contracted the disease. After a three-week quarantine, plans call for Cooper to reopen as a maternity ward.

Seton has served at Cooper Hospital as a general surgeon since February of this year, and is now in the United States on leave. While home she will travel to Loma Linda University, where she will join other hospital administrators from around the world for the Global Healthcare Conference; Appel will also attend this event. Having worked for AHI for nearly a decade, Appel was serving at Abougoudam Adventist Hospital in Chad when he was asked to transfer to Monrovia to help during this crisis. He agreed without hesitation and went on to work at Cooper for nearly two months prior to its closing.

Both Seton and Appel have given their time and lives to serving those in need. Even as they faced the threat of contracting the disease on a daily basis, their determination and caring attitude helped them to be a source of help during a time when help was scarce. 

For more information please visit www.ahiglobal.org.

]]>
Thu, 09 Oct 2014 10:51:43 -0700
4264:18610 <![CDATA[Interim chief nursing officer named for LLU Children's Hospital]]> Jiggs Gallagher Helen Staples-Evans, DNP, has been selected to serve as interim chief nursing officer at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital. She is currently executive director of staff development at Loma Linda University Medical Center. The appointment took place effective Oct. 1, 2014, pending board review and approval.

Staples-Evans has served at Loma Linda University Medical Center for more than 30 years, with experience in a wide variety of settings. She worked as both a clinical and medical ICU nurse, and has had faculty status teaching pediatrics. She was lead faculty for critical care, administrative nursing supervisor, clinical nurse specialist and nurse manager in pediatric hematology/oncology.

“My two areas of work-related passion involve meeting the needs of children and the education of our staff to provide superior care to our patients,” says Staples-Evans. “I am honored to be able to continue to serve at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital.” She holds memberships in many professional organizations, and is also the recipient of many honors and awards over her career.

Staples-Evans holds her doctor of nursing practice and master’s degrees in nursing from Loma Linda University, where she was the recipient of the Dean’s and Leadership awards. She completed the certificate program in nursing administration and received certification in nursing administration from the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She is also a founding member of the Inland Empire Branch of the Society of Pediatric Nursing.

Kerry Heinrich, chief executive officer of Loma Linda University Medical Center, expressed delight and confidence in Staples-Evans as she moves to her new job.

Staples-Evans will take the responsibilities of Jennifer Cruikshank, who resigned as chief patient care director of Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital. Cruikshank will take a position as chief operating officer at Riverside County Regional Medical Center.

The outgoing and incoming leaders have agreed to help with the ongoing separate licensure process for the Children’s Hospital, and to continue to lead out in surveys to support that process in coming weeks.

]]>
Thu, 02 Oct 2014 14:14:21 -0700
4264:18606 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- good grades]]> Heather Reifsnyder During the April 21, 1918, dedication of White Memorial Medical Center — originally created to be a site of clinical education for medical students from the College of Medical Evangelists (now Loma Linda University) — the service was interrupted by an earthquake. Correctly naming this unexpected occurrence were random winners Andrea Briseño, Paul Wojtkowski, and Sue Macy. Please email pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

When the earth shook, speaker Percy T. Magan, MD, quipped to the crowd of more than 2,000 people, “It takes a good-sized man to make a speech that will start an earthquake.”

Adequate clinical training for College of Medical Evangelists medical students had been a demand from the American Medical Association Council on Medical Education and Hospitals, and White Memorial provided that. A few years later, as the school made more and more improvements, the council would give the College of Medical Evangelists its first “A” rating.

Nathan Colwell, MD, secretary of the Council on Medical Education and Hospitals, had first visited the College of Medical Evangelists in 1912 and concluded that attempts at running a medical school should be abandoned. His advice, of course, was ignored.

Years later, Colwell later said at a banquet: “When the Seventh-day Adventists first started … a number of us felt they were doomed for defeat. I told them over and over again not to make a start. But today I must confess that their faith has triumphed over my unbelief.”

In the letter he wrote to the college giving it an “A,” Colwell offered his sincere congratulations.

In what year was this long-awaited rating given? Please email the answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, Oct. 7, for the chance to be a random winner. One answer per person. 

]]>
Thu, 02 Oct 2014 13:37:29 -0700
4264:18604 <![CDATA[Vespers will acknowledge Overseas Heart Surgery Team for 50 years of service]]> Nancy Yuen All are invited to a vespers program acknowledging 50 years of service of the Loma Linda University Overseas Heart Surgery Team and honoring its co-founder, Ellsworth E. Wareham, MD, on his 100th birthday. The vespers will be held Friday, Oct. 10, 6:30 p.m., at the Loma Linda University Church.

Members of the Overseas Heart Surgery team will be present during the event, which promises to be an evening filled with reminiscences and inspirational music.

The Overseas Heart Surgery Team was founded in 1963 by Wareham and C. Joan Coggin, MD. That same year the team, comprised of seven specialists, traveled on its inaugural mission, to Karachi, Pakistan, where they provided care.

Over the years, the team has provided training and has provided lifesaving care to patients in countries including China, Greece, Kenya, Nepal, North Korea, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, South Vietnam and Zimbabwe.

]]>
Thu, 02 Oct 2014 13:00:35 -0700
4264:18593 <![CDATA[Save the earth, win a prize]]> Heather Reifsnyder Oct. 6–10 is California Rideshare Week. Inland Empire Commuter Services and Loma Linda University Health encourage employees to commute to work in an earth-friendly way at least one day during that week — such as carpooling, vanpooling, bicycling, walking, and taking public transportation.

Take the pledge at http://iecommuter.org/rideshareweek/ and be entered for a chance to win prizes such as an iPad, furniture, hotel and entertainment packages, and gift cards. Must be a resident of Riverside or San Bernardino counties to enter.

To find a carpool or other rideshare options, visit IE Commuter or call 866-RIDESHARE (866-743-3742).

Entries must be received by Oct. 24, 2014.

]]>
Thu, 02 Oct 2014 12:16:58 -0700
4264:18591 <![CDATA[Imagine an evening in Africa ...]]> Heather Reifsnyder The Loma Linda University Church and the Loma Linda University Center for Biodiversity and Conservation Studies will host a vespers program Saturday night, Oct. 4, that will feature animals from the African continent.

The service, titled “Footprints of Africa,” will have animal examples from the grasslands of the Serengeti to the forests of the Virunga Mountains and the deserts of the Sahara.

“Imagine an evening in Africa,” says William Hayes, PhD, professor of biology at Loma Linda University. “Animals. If you listen closely, you can hear their soft footfalls among the raucous wails and calls. If you pay close attention, you can spot some that contemplate you from a distance, and others virtually beneath your feet. Whether grazers or predators, big or small, fleet or slow, four-legged or legless, these creatures capture our imagination.

“This program will feature some extraordinary animals. Be sure to join us — we've planned an unforgettable evening for you and the family,” he says.

The vespers will take place in the Loma Linda University Church sanctuary at 5:00 p.m.

]]>
Thu, 02 Oct 2014 12:07:50 -0700
4264:18582 <![CDATA[Next week: be renewed]]> Heather Reifsnyder Individuals campus wide are invited to University@Worship Week of Renewal Oct. 6–10. The services are each day from 11:00–11:50 a.m. at the Loma Linda University Church.

The theme centers on Jesus’ actions to serve and free people.

Loma Linda University Associate Chaplain Dilys Brooks, MDiv, MS, MA, explains further:

In a day and age when people are searching for relationships, meaning, a place of belonging, we explore the main theme of Jesus's ministry on earth. Jesus stated repeatedly that He came to show us the Father and to establish a kingdom. The word "kingdom" is archaic and certainly not used in our post-modern culture where Facebook, Twitter, Instagram even the Internet have allowed for us to live in a realm of "equals." At our core, humans long for connection — deep, meaningful, and sustaining. At no other time in history have we been more connected and yet felt so alone. The people of God longed for the coming of the Messiah. This Messiah was to free them from the oppression of the Roman Empire and establish an earthly kingdom. But Christ came into the world to usher in the Kingdom of heaven, which is unlike anything anyone ever expected.

Rather …

Oct 6: Rather than condemn the world, He saved it. (John 3:17)
Oct 7: Rather than be exalted, He served. (John 13:1-17)
Oct 8: Rather than establish boundaries, He tore down walls. (Galatians 3:28-29)
Oct 9: Rather than succumbing to pressure to fit in or receive accolades, He retreated to quiet places to spend time with His Father. (Luke 5:16)
Oct 10: Rather than save Himself, He saved the world. (John 3:16)

“During this Week of Renewal, we get to compare once again the domains of our making with the one that Jesus came to offer. It is our hope that we will choose to accept the invitation to make a paradigm shift and become a part of the kingdom of heaven,” Brooks says.

]]>
Thu, 02 Oct 2014 10:46:05 -0700
4264:18532 <![CDATA[Employees speak: job meaning]]> Do employees of Loma Linda University Health feel the same way as graduates about their jobs being meaningful? We asked after Loma Linda University’s recent No. 1 national ranking for producing bachelor’s degree graduates who report that their job makes the world a better place.

The survey answers were glowing. Below are the responses to “My work makes the world a better place because …”

...of the domino effect. What I do here at the School of Public Health has an impact on our faculty, who have an impact on our students, who go out and impact the world! I left my previous job at a local medical group where I was making Redlands and the Inland Empire a better place, via direct patient contact, but after 21 years, I was given the chance to make an impact around the world. Coming back to Loma Linda University has given me that opportunity, and even though I've only been here for 9 months, I can see some things happening in Europe, Africa, and other parts of the world. It's an exciting time to be back and make a difference in public health, because public health and health care are changing rapidly! So what each faculty and staff person here in the School of Public Health does will definitely make this world a better place, especially as we emphasize the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus “to make man whole” around the world.
-Ernie Medina, executive director, Center for Nutrition, Healthy Lifestyle, & Disease Prevention, School of Public Health                      

The only workplace you're free to pray with your co-worker any time of the day.
-Lana Soli, purchasing agent, supply chain management 

As we conduct research and create programs and projects around providing whole person care, patients, students, faculty, staff and clinical practitioners are positively impacted. Every day I am grateful to have a part in continuing the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ in all that I do. It doesn't get better than changing lives!
-Kris Lozano, manager, Center for Spiritual Life and Wholeness

We are the best! We see our patients come in rolling themselves in wheelchairs and they soon start walking and running out of here. We see patients come in with amputations of the legs, and soon enough, they are walking out of here on prosthetic legs ... that we built ourselves! Children come in not being able to speak two words, and leave here telling me "see you next time Chelsie!" Not only the rehab, but our entire hospital is known so far and so wide for being so amazing. I am so proud to work for such a great place.
-Chelsie Blackmon, insurance verification representative, outpatient rehab 

I get to help people do what they love. Many people go through life doing a job or going to school for something that they do not love, but for reasons like: it pays well, they just need a job, it's what their parents want them to do, etc. They stay in that role day in and day out. But when people volunteer they spend their time doing something that they love and something they are passionate about. It is amazing to be a part of that process for them. Also, as a volunteer coordinator, I get to on board, train and place many volunteers for our institutions. This alleviates some of the workload from staff and enhances our patients’ experience every day. From our baby snugglers to our clerical volunteers who assist with filing and answering phones to the golf cart drivers, what our volunteers do is amazing. Being a part of that is what makes my work make the world a better place.
-Stevieann Beach, volunteer coordinator, volunteer services 

… because of the leadership in our office, the teamwork, and family values each and every one of us have in the PTO. We strive to make a difference in the children we see, trying to make their visit a better one. And [because] of the values — following Jesus Christ’s footsteps is the most rewarding of them all. We are able to show the love of God through us every day.
-Rosa Casarez, medical assistant, FMO PTO

Collecting cancer data is important not only to health agencies who use the data to find potential cancer clusters and their causes, but it is important to researchers who continue studying the possible causes of cancer. When I come to work, I know that in a very small way, I am contributing to the possible prevention, new treatments and control of cancer.
-Karen Koehn, manager, LLUMC Cancer Registry, Cancer Center 

It allows me to begin the day with a brief devotion.
-Samir Sircar, accountant, payroll 

The people I get to work with generally have hearts of gold. My work associates work here because they want to work here. I also get to meet the most amazing people who are giving back to Loma Linda by donating to further the causes of Loma Linda University Health. Yes, everyone is unique in their own way, but each one has found a way to support our institution usually locally, but also internationally through Adventist Health International or other affiliations. I am blessed to be a small part of the work here at Loma Linda University Health.
-Kevin Fischer, executive director, real estate management

I get the opportunity to help our community patients obtain the services they are in need of. I know I am impacting our patient's lives every day through my work with Loma Linda University Health. I love it.
-Jessica Moya, central authorization representative, central authorization department 

I touch lives every day I go in to work. I help the hopeless find hope, I accept the rejected, I love those who have forgotten how to love themselves, and sometimes I am instrumental in people becoming clean and sober and maintaining that sobriety for years. With many of my patients I have been able to share the gospel of God's unconditional love for them and how He will never stop seeking them when they wander off. I can never actually know what our encounters mean to my patients, but I know of one life that is better for my doing this work — mine. My patients touch me, they call out compassion from me, and draw me closer to Christ as I engage in his Healing ministry with those same sinners that the Pharisees once rejected. Class of 1983, 1985, 2014
-John Elder, LLU alumnus, chemical dependency and recovery counselor III, addiction medicine, Kaiser Permanente in Fontana 

I have been working at Loma Linda University Medical Center for 11 years with bereaved families. While working here, I went back to college and got my degree in criminal justice administration at the University of Phoenix. Working at my desk has been quite an experience. I've learned many things. Managing the death process at our facility, speaking to grieving families, being educated by our providers and understanding their language gives me the opportunity to give back to this community humbly. It is teaching me to be patient and grateful. I've learned to look at life differently. I appreciate more. So my work makes the world a better place because I move things gratefully and smoothly. After speaking to family members, they are assured, and they can move forward calmly.
-Carmen Ramirez, release of information specialist/decedent affairs, health information management 

In the midst of so many things that separate human beings ... my job brings them closer! Communication is one of the most basic needs of humankind. It helps us to gain understanding, acceptance and validation of our feelings, and this is especially true when we are sick. As an interpreter, being able to connect a patient and a provider at times of a life-changing diagnosis, and doing it in a compassionate way, is a sacred privilege. At times, that life-changing diagnosis may come in the form of communicating a devastating outcome, but other times, we deliver the happy news that a long-waited miracle has happened. Living in this imperfect world and witnessing God’s healing of the soul, at times when healing of the body cannot be accomplished, is a humbling experience, and I love being part of that.
-Katya Campos, Spanish interpreter, language services

I feel that the work I am able to contribute in helping patients, coworkers, people and family members while doing the best job I can, being as compassionate as I can, helps everyone and contributes to making the world a healthier and better place.
-Brian Joyce, CT imaging specialist, radiology 

We care for the elderly and persons with disabilities in our community every day, five days a week. Our day program provides therapeutic activities, medical monitoring, therapies, social services, spiritual care, etc. We treat them with love, respect, compassion, and unconditional regard so by the time they leave in the afternoon, they are full of smiles and gratitude and they can't wait to be back the next day. We keep them actively involved during the day so by the time they get home, they just want to eat and go to bed and give their caregivers additional respite. Best of all, we are able to pray for them. They come to us for their everyday concerns and ask us for prayer, and they look forward to Fridays when we close the week with a devotional. I believe that our small department helps make the world a much, much better place.
-Ramona De Guzman, clinical social worker, adult day health services

It introduces paths “to make man whole!”
-Cherrie Martin, administrative assistant, LLU office of enrollment 

Students are our future and training them to make the world a better place automatically makes my world a better place!
-Donna Gurule, assistant dean, master’s program, School of Public Health 

We help take care of special-needs patients’ dental needs! We also take care of pediatric patients as well. My department provides awesome care under general anesthesia. Proper dental care alone makes the world a better place! :)
-Alina Rico, dental assistant, Surgery Center 

The last 30 years I have walked onto campus and through the doors of the School of Dentistry. I feel honored that I am apart of this incredible system. I feel my work for the school has been my ministry. I so believe in what we teach, stand for as a school and how we give back to students, patients, faculty and staff.
-Mary Hartwell, dental clinics manager, School of Dentistry 

I am directly involved in curriculum development through the assessment process. Every day, I feel I have impact on what our students learn, how they learn it and being able to show that they've learned it. There is a tremendous responsibility to get it right, but it is much more important to stay connected with our students and listen to their feedback and remain relevant. I am completely challenged and fulfilled in my work here at the School of Dentistry.
-Euni Cho, director of educational assessment, assistant professor, School of Dentistry administration 

It gives me the opportunity to share Christ in me and have an influence on those who need Christ in them.
-Bill Stephens, finance/clinic manager, surgery 

It's all about compassion and communication! The financial status of each patient can make or break their life. In these times, the financial security of every person who needs health care is very questionable. Bills due after an unforeseen illness or accident weigh heavy on a patient, especially when the funds are not there. There are many honest patients/people who want to pay their bills but do not have health care insurance. We make an effort to help them understand that we are on their side and will work with them so they can pay their debts. Compassionate communication is what it’s all about and can be used in any workplace. Health care is not free and in our changing world, unfortunately there will always be illness. I found that Loma Linda is a very charitable institution. Communication with compassion will take us in the right direction to help each other.
-Shelley Alonzo, surgery section manager, Loma Linda University Health Care department of orthopedics 

]]>
Thu, 25 Sep 2014 14:21:09 -0700
4264:18531 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- crisis solution]]> Heather Reifsnyder Today’s winners are Mala Trott, Steven Lopez, and Marguerite Lauderback. They correctly identified the man who gave a powerful speech to save Loma Linda University School of Medicine at the autumn 1915 meeting of world leaders of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. The man was Percy T. Magan, namesake of Magan Hall, and his speech led to a unanimous vote to keep the School of Medicine at Loma Linda University open. Winners, please email pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days. 

The reason for this debate was that Loma Linda University — or the College of Medical Evangelists, as it was then known — struggled to provide adequate clinical facilities for medical student training, and the American Medical Association was demanding it. 

The solution was to build a clinical teaching hospital in Los Angeles — a decision urged at the 1915 church meeting by Dr. Florence Keller, Josephine Gotzian, Mrs. Stephen N. Haskell, and Emma Gray. The women started a successful movement to raise funds for the new facility, White Memorial Hospital. It was named after Loma Linda University Health co-founder Ellen White, who had died a few months earlier on July 16, 1915.

White Memorial was dedicated at a ceremony on April 21, 1918, with more than 2,000 in attendance. What unexpected occurrence happened during that service?

Please email the correct answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, Sept. 30, for a chance to be a random winner. One answer per person.

]]>
Thu, 25 Sep 2014 13:51:41 -0700
4264:18529 <![CDATA['Embrace the Future' at Global Health Care Conference ]]> Courtney Beckwith Haas As an annual event that comes home to Loma Linda University Health every other year, the Global Health Care Conference, is once again just around the corner, and registration is now open. The theme is “Embracing the Future.”

This year the conference will be held Oct. 16 through 19 in the Centennial Complex featuring speakers and panelists from within Loma Linda University Health as well as outside presenters from select Seventh-day Adventist hospitals.

The target audience for the conference is hospital leaders and those who work or are interested in working with international hospitals. Representatives of about 25 international hospitals will be in attendance.

The theme will focus on developing infrastructures to sustain healthy hospitals. Topics will include strategic planning, finances, teamwork, biomedical issues, facilities, and electronic medical record systems.

In addition to lectures and seminars, attendees will be given the opportunity to participate in interactive workshops with hospital peers from around the world. These workshops are designed to instill collaborative learning and developments for practical plans that can be applied at each of the institutions represented at the conference.

The conference is also designed to provide a venue for collaboration between hospitals by encouraging dialogue on challenges, successes, and solutions and inspiring hospital leaders to “Embrace the Future.”

Limited spaces are available, so those interested in attending the conference are encouraged to register at lluglobal.com/conference, where more information and the schedule are also available.

]]>
Thu, 25 Sep 2014 13:47:16 -0700
4264:18527 <![CDATA[Who are Seventh-day Adventists?]]> Loma Linda University Health is blessed by employees from many faith traditions who help live out the organization’s mission. Whether longtime or new employees, individuals from other traditions may wonder about the basic beliefs of Seventh-day Adventists. Perhaps they have heard someone talk about the special gift of Sabbath or the focus on a healthy lifestyle.

Interested employees are invited to an informational session for an overview of Adventist beliefs. There are two dates to choose from: 

• Wednesday October 14, from 5:15 – 6:45 p.m., or
• Monday, October 27, from noon – 1:30 p.m.

There will be ample time for questions following brief presentations, which will take place at Wong Kerlee International Conference Center.

Lunch or dinner will be served. The event is free to the first 30 respondents per each date.

To RSVP, please call employee spiritual care at extension 87261.

]]>
Thu, 25 Sep 2014 13:40:28 -0700
4264:18521 <![CDATA[Large grant received for pediatric cancer research at LLU Children's Hospital]]> Jiggs Gallagher Kimberly Payne, PhD, associate professor of Loma Linda University School of Medicine and director of translational research at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital, accepted at $250,000 pediatric cancer research grant from Hyundai Motor America’s “Hope on Wheels” on Sept. 22.

The grant will support Payne’s work as a “Scholar of Hope,” focusing on leukemia in children. She said her work on behalf of children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia is not just important professionally to her, but very personally. “My cousin, Jacob, died at the age of 3 of this disease,” she told a group assembled to see the check presentation. “It’s too late for Jacob, but I hope our work will find new treatments and a cure for this disease.”

Erwin Raphael, general manager of the Western Region of Hyundai Motor America, spoke of the Hope on Wheels campaign, founded by Hyundai 16 years ago. “In that time, Hyundai Motor America has donated $87 million toward pediatric cancer research, all over the nation,” he said. He added that about 15,000 children are diagnosed with pediatric cancer every year in the United States. “We will win” against this disease, he said. This year’s contributions are being given during September, which is devoted to children’s cancer awareness.

Payne said that pediatric cancer rates are higher in Loma Linda University Health’s service area than nationwide norms. “We will not stop until we have the tools to conquer this disease,” she said.

Christopher Alcala, a former patient at Children’s Hospital with leukemia, spoke movingly of his diagnosis as a child, and having to tell his mother himself. He was referred to Loma Linda University Medical Center, and talked of how the Children’s Hospital became a second home, giving him hope and confidence in his future as he saw his way back to health. He added that he is ready to begin college, and looking forward to a full life.

Another former patient, 9-year-old Kimmie Metcalf, said she and her family were so grateful for the good care she received at LLU Children’s Hospital.

Several young children, both present and former patients at Children’s Hospital, made paint handprints commemorating the morning’s event. Hyundai’s Hope on Wheels’ annual September campaign is titled “Every Handprint Tells a Story.”

Hyundai’s website, with more information, is HyundaiHopeOnWheels.org/September.

]]>
Thu, 25 Sep 2014 00:00:00 -0700
4264:18367 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- 'We can do anything God wants us to do.']]> Heather Reifsnyder Orange groves stretched up into the hills on one side of the first Loma Linda Hospital, while field surrounded its other three sides, when it opened in 1913.

After a second hospital opened in 1924, the first one became a men’s dormitory and was renamed West Hall. Last week’s trivia challenged asked when the building was torn down. Correctly answering 1942, and selected as the random winners, are Gerald Rezes, Tami Kerns, and Katja Ruh. Please e-mail pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

In September of ’42, the male residents moved to a new men’s dormitory called Arthur G. Daniells Hall, which was located where the Alumni Hall for Basic Sciences now sits.

But who was Arthur Daniells? He was influential in Loma Linda University’s early years and president of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists for some 22 years.

He can be remembered as a man who impassionedly defended the continued existence of the College of Medical Evangelists (as LLU was called then) as a full-fledged medical school during a time when it faced many challenges, particularly in regard to the ability to provide adequate clinical facilities for medical student training.

In fall 1915, world Adventist church leaders met at Loma Linda and discussed the college’s future. After much discussion among men and women present, Daniells gave a powerful speech, concluding with  “We can build up this school. We can do anything God wants us to do.”

Another person who defended the College of Medical Evangelists at the meeting spoke so powerfully that it was later written, “His words were so pointed and took such a deep hold that men who strongly opposed the continuance of the school were practically unable to answer [his] arguments, and those who were battling for the school took a new grip.”

Who was the man with such persuasion? Like Daniells, he has a building named after him on campus. Please e-mail the correct answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, Sept. 23, for a chance to win.

When the vote on the college’s future was taken, not a single hand was raised to close it.

]]>
Thu, 18 Sep 2014 00:00:00 -0700
4264:18363 <![CDATA[Environmental Services and Housekeeping Week]]> The employees, students, and patients of Loma Linda University staff all depend on the critical role of environmental services, and September 14-20 is National Environmental Services and Housekeeping Week.

We ask that you participate in the celebration by saying “thank you” to our housekeeping staff and linen staff this week.

]]>
Thu, 18 Sep 2014 13:25:54 -0700
4264:18361 <![CDATA[Fall chapel schedule released]]> Heather Reifsnyder The fall 2014 University @ Worship chapel schedule is now available. The services are open to anyone from the Loma Linda University Health family. Services take place each Wednesday from September 24 through November 19.

"At chapel, we welcome not just students, but also any staff or faculty member from across all entities of Loma Linda University Health," says LLU Chaplain Terry Swenson, DMin. "The weekly services are a great opportunity to unify us as one family under God's care."

The week of October 6, there will be a service each day, Monday through Friday, for Week of Renewal.

Where: Loma Linda University Church
When: Wednesdays, 11:00 – 11:50 a.m.

September 24: School chapels*
October 1: LLU Convocation
October 6-10:  Week of Renewal
      “Rather...” Terry Swenson, LLU chaplain
       October 6: “Rather … He saved.”
       October 7: “Rather ... He served.”
       October 8: “Rather ... He tore down walls.”
       October 9: “Rather ... He transformed."
       October 10: “Rather ... He sacrificed.”
October 15: Dilys Brooks, associate pastor, Loma Linda University Church
October 22: John Brunt, senior pastor, Azure Hills Adventist Church
October 29: LLU Sings
November 5: “Our Voices”
November 12: Samantha Angeles-Peralta, associate pastor, Bonita Valley Adventist Church
November 19: Randy Speyer, associate pastor, Loma Linda University Church

* School chapels, Sept. 24
School of Medicine: No chapel
School of Nursing: 8:00 a.m., University Church
School of Dentistry: 11:00 a.m., Randall Amphitheater
School of Allied Health Professions: 11:00 a.m., Campus Hill Church
School of Public Health: 11:00 a.m., Damazo Amphitheater
School of Behavioral Health: 11:00 a.m., BHI Building
School of Pharmacy: See dean’s office for more information.
School of Religion: See dean's office for more information.

]]>
Thu, 18 Sep 2014 12:53:38 -0700
4264:18359 <![CDATA[Innovation seminar to take place next week]]> Heather Reifsnyder and Isaiah Aguirre The Center of Strategy and Innovation at Loma Linda University Health invites interested individuals from across the institution to a dynamic presentation on “Intentional Design for Healthy and Sustainable Communities.” It will take place Sept. 25 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Centennial Complex amphitheater 3111.

Ed Goodman, chief experience officer at Spiral Experiences, LLC, will be the guest speaker. Goodman has extensive experience with creative organizations, including The Walt Disney Company, as consultant, think-tank member, strategic planning advisor, marketing strategist, educational product producer, and television producer. Goodman is also principal innovator and guide for Starizon Studio, author of two books on organizational transformation, and co-author of experience design guidebooks to transform health care networks.

“Ed will offer insight into how we can create a transformative and inspirational experience for everyone who passes through our facilities, campus, and city,” notes Justin Van Allen from community health development, Loma Linda University Health.

Lunch will be provided for those who pre-register. Register HERE.

For more information, please contact 909-558-3841.

]]>
Thu, 18 Sep 2014 12:47:31 -0700
4264:18357 <![CDATA[Party at the Plaza]]> Nancy Blaire Snow cones, farm-fresh produce, and summer tunes will be served next Tuesday, September 23, at the Party at the Plaza, an event celebrating the end of summer and welcoming the start of fall. The party starts at 5:00 p.m. — the usual start to the weekly Loma Linda Farmer’s Market at the Campus Plaza — and will continue until 8:30 p.m., featuring seven local and student musical groups playing throughout the evening.

Enjoy free popcorn and snow cones provided by iLLU Tech, stock up on Loma Linda University apparel at the Campus Store booth, or indulge in locally grown fruits and veggies. Local dining fare will also be available for purchase from Loma Linda Farmer’s Market food vendors. 

Loma Linda University students, alumni, and other local musicians will include David Ryan Harris, starting off the concert at 5:00 p.m., followed by PulseAux with Ariana Anugerah, Honey Bunch, Gavion Niere, and Jake Haber with Habes and Quartet of One. My Best Friends and Me with Brad Cacho will wrap up the night.

Held at the LLU Campus Plaza on the corner of Anderson and Mound streets in "downtown" Loma Linda, the Party at the Plaza will feature the usual vendors of Loma Linda Farmer’s Market, as well as on-campus businesses like the Loma Linda University Campus Store, iLLUTech, LLU Printing Services, and Loma Linda Market.

The Party at the Plaza is hosted by LLU Foundation and LLU Campus Store in partnership with Loma Linda Chamber of Commerce. To learn more about Party at the Plaza, call the LLU Campus Store at 909-558-4567. 

]]>
Thu, 18 Sep 2014 12:37:58 -0700
4264:18354 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- Protein-rich vegetarian foods]]> Nancy Yuen Proteins are an essential part of your diet, but it's important to choose healthy, lean proteins to keep your body going strong.


Protein-rich foods are high in nutrients, including B vitamins, vitamin E, iron, zinc and magnesium. They serve as building blocks for blood, muscles, bones, skin, cartilage, hormones and enzymes, and they provide needed calories. In addition, B vitamins found in proteins help the body release energy, boost a healthier nervous system, and create red blood cells and new tissue. Iron in proteins helps the blood carry oxygen.


Here are a few interesting facts about some of the top sources of vegetarian and vegan protein. While most grains contain a small amount of protein, quinoa (a seed) is unique in containing 9 grams per cup, including the nine essential amino acids that the body needs for growth and repair but cannot produce on its own.


Plain soy milk contains about 100 calories per cup — comparable to the 80 calories in skim milk. Soy milk has the most protein (4 to 8 grams per 8 ounces), while almond, hemp, and rice milk contain about 1 gram per cup.


Sesame and sunflower seeds are high in protein and healthy fats. Sunflower seed kernels contain the most protein — 7.3 grams per quarter cup — followed by sesame seeds and poppy seeds (5.4 grams).


Finally, a tip chocolate enthusiasts will appreciate: unsweetened cocoa powder contains about 1 gram of protein per tablespoon.


Following are some of the top nutrient-dense foods with a high protein content.

Vegetables
• avocado (one) - 10 grams
• broccoli (1 cup) – 5 grams
• spinach (1 cup)  - 5 grams
• kale (1 cup, cooked) - 2.5 grams
• peas (1 cup, cooked) - 9 grams
• sweet potato (1 cup, cooked) - 5 grams

Legumes
• soybeans (1 cup) - 28 grams (1 cup tofu - 22 grams, 1 cup tempeh - 30 grams)
• lentils (1 cup) - 18 grams
• refried beans (1 cup) - 15.5 grams
• garbanzo beans (1 cup) - 14.5 grams
• pinto, kidney, black beans (1 cup) - 13-15 grams

Nuts and seeds
• cashews (1 oz.) - 4.4 grams
• sesame seeds (1 oz) - 6.5 grams
• walnuts (1/4 cup) - 5 grams
• pistachios ( 1 oz.) - 5.8 grams
• almonds (2 Tbsp.) - 4 grams
• peanut butter, almond butter, cashew butter (2 Tbsp.) - approx. 8 grams of protein

Non-dairy milk - Soy, almond (1 cup) - 7-9 grams   

Grains
• quinoa (1 cup) - 9 grams.
• seitan (flavored wheat gluten) (1 cup) - 52 grams
• oatmeal – (1 cup) - 6 grams.
• sprouted grain bread products - buns, tortillas, bread (per slice) - 7-10 grams

Sources: HealthDay news; The U.S. Department of Agriculture; Health.com; NaturalNews.com

]]>
Thu, 18 Sep 2014 11:50:02 -0700
4264:18336 <![CDATA[Your job meaning]]> Jiggs Gallagher Last week, we reveled in the selection of Loma Linda University alumni as No. 1 in the nation for feeling a sense of making the world a better place through their work. Read the article, see national media coverage, and watch LLUH President Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, discuss it here

The PayScale survey of 1.4 million college and university bachelor’s degree alumni put Loma Linda University far ahead of Ivy League universities like Harvard, Yale and Princeton, whose graduates’ sense of making the world a better place through their jobs was hardly above the median.

If you’re a graduate of Loma Linda University — or even if you graduated somewhere else and work here now — we’d like to hear your thoughts on how you feel your work influences the world and its people. Do you feel a sense of mission and receive satisfaction from carrying out your work every day? 

Use the form below to tell us how you get to make a difference through your job. We’ll select some of your answers to include in an upcoming News of the Week. 

Fill out my online form.
]]>
Wed, 17 Sep 2014 15:00:41 -0700
4264:18188 <![CDATA[Notes from the President]]> Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   September 2014
Making a Difference

It has been a good week. Perhaps the most impressive news came late on Wednesday in an unexpected affirmation of who we are. It is a survey, reported in both The Atlantic and The Washington Post, of 1.4 million college alumni of bachelor’s degree programs from 1,000 U.S. colleges and universities. We don’t actively participate in these surveys, but many organizations find it interesting to assess educational institutions and their impact. In years past, Loma Linda has ranked very high on earnings of undergraduate alumni, because our programs in nursing, dental hygiene, and allied health disciplines are in great demand. But this year, the surveyors (PayScale) asked alumni an additional question: “Does your work make the world a better place?” Answers could range from “very much so” to “my job may make the world a worse place.”

LLU graduates were No. 1 in the nation on this question, with 91 percent saying their jobs were meaningful and made the world a better place. We were followed by the University of Texas Medical Branch, Medical College of Georgia, and Thomas Jefferson University, while even the Ivy League schools had only two thirds of their alumni finding their jobs meaningful. What a remarkable testament to this university and our outstanding alumni. It is hard to get 91 percent to agree on anything, yet the vast majority of our grads felt they were making a difference in the world.

Where does that kind of job satisfaction and commitment come from? The surveyors note that those working in medical fields, as well as social work and education, find the most meaning in their jobs. So we have a natural advantage because of our health sciences orientation. Gaining true meaning in what one does is such a powerful factor in a satisfying life and career. Certainly our emphasis on service and our commitment “To Make Man Whole” must be a factor. I am also sure that the kind of students who choose to come to Loma Linda predisposes them to finding this kind of focus and value in life. And our faith-based commitment, with its sense that eternal issues and values are central to all we do, must also influence the careers and lives of our graduates. Whatever the cause, we are pleased that the world can see the value of our educational system and the quality alumni it produces.

On other topics, I am delighted that two weeks ago our board confirmed Kerry Heinrich as our CEO for the medical center and its family of six hospitals. He was also appointed executive vice president of hospital affairs for Loma Linda University Health. Kerry’s expertise in health care law and all the issues we face in this complex world has made him an invaluable member of our leadership team. His great interpersonal and analytical skills, so useful in navigating the treacherous waters around us, have already made him a respected part of the team during the few months he has served as interim CEO. Join me in welcoming Kerry into the Loma Linda University Health family.

Finally, STEWART STREET IS OPEN! What a blessing to have this main artery through the campus once again flowing smoothly, with its four lanes and stoplights on both ends. The Centennial Bridge is also open to pedestrian traffic, though the pavers and historical markers will take several more months to install. Landscaping can now begin on both the bridge and the south side of the Centennial Complex, completing a long-awaited plan for the campus.

The city of Loma Linda was a major partner in this project, and I want to acknowledge Jarb Thaipejr, the city manager, and his team; Dusty Rigsby, the mayor; and the entire city council, who have been so supportive in making this project happen. The city’s fire department came to celebrate the opening event, and I was given the privilege of driving the historic 1932 Ford fire truck as the first vehicle down the street under the Centennial Bridge. That grin on my face is real, as it has taken so long to make this project happen. I also want to thank our Loma Linda University Health team — Rod Neal, our SVP for financial affairs; Ken Breyer, our AVP for construction management; and Brad Johnson, our project manager, for their guidance and persistence in this project. As we hoped, it will enhance safety on the campus for thousands of our students and faculty, and will become an iconic part of our campus story. Come take a look, especially at night, when the backlit lettering on the bridge is so beautiful.

Cordially yours,

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

 

]]>
Thu, 11 Sep 2014 15:27:31 -0700
4264:18171 <![CDATA[Stewart Street opens; antique fire trucks make first drive]]> Heather Reifsnyder As one of the first thoroughfares during the early days of this community, Stewart Street has witnessed more than 100 years of history for both Loma Linda University Health and the city of Loma Linda. The two entities joined together for the past year and a half in a construction project on Stewart Street to benefit students and the community.

“What we’re in now is what I call the renaissance of Stewart Street,” said Loma Linda Mayor Dusty Rigsby, MD, during a ribbon-cutting ceremony the afternoon of Sept. 9. The section of the road between Anderson and Campus streets had been closed since March 11, 2013, for the transformation.

During that time, the street was lowered by about 15 feet to pass under a new pedestrian bridge connecting the main LLU campus to the Centennial Complex.

This has created a pedestrian-friendly, student-centric environment, noted Rigsby. Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health, said that when plans were made to construct the Centennial Complex, many options were discussed for making it accessible to vehicles and pedestrians, but this one was the only true solution. The construction has been a joint project of LLUH and the city. 

“This is a time when town and gown literally came together,” Hart said, calling it a real delight to open the road.  

The ceremony marked the completion of the construction, and both street and pedestrian bridge are now open. There may be some intermittent rerouting of foot traffic as the bridge is landscaped, covered in shade canopies, and dotted with benches. 

Pavers for the Centennial Pathway will also be extended over the bridge to the doors of the Centennial Complex — meaning it will now cover 150 years of history (through 2055) instead of the originally planned 100.

Hart pondered what events might take place at LLUH between now and 2055 that will be meaningful in history. He also reflected on the meaning of the artwork that is etched into the concrete retaining walls of the lowered street: the LLUH motto “to make man whole” and images of the hemispheres of the globe.

These were chosen, Hart said, in recognition of the LLUH commitment to serve the entire world. “Roads and bridges are symbolic,” he noted.

Rodney Neal, MBA, senior vice president for financial affairs, Loma Linda University, also spoke at the event, saying that the road and bridge will become another iconic piece of the Loma Linda landscape. Ken Breyer, assistant vice president, LLU Shared Services, prayed.

Representatives of both the city and LLUH cut a ceremonial red ribbon  — Hart, Neal, Rigsby, and T. Jarb Thaipejr, city manager, Loma Linda. 

Loma Linda Fire Department facilitated the first drive down the newly reopened street, with the same four men and a few others riding on two engine-red antique fire trucks.  

Many people were thanked for making the construction successful, including Brad Johnson, project manager. 

“I’m so privileged to work here,” Johnson said. “We all support the mission in different ways, and this has been really rewarding for me.”

Other individuals who made the project possible include Thaipejr, Brad Glassick, Harold Hartwick, Ian Robertson, Robert Johnson, Fred Yi, and Eleazar (Alex) Rubalcava. 

]]>
Thu, 11 Sep 2014 14:23:10 -0700
4264:18168 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- Open and closed]]> Heather Reifsnyder The query last week was this: Where on the present-day campus was the first Loma Linda Hospital located when it opened in 1913?

The answer: where the Centennial Globe now stands in the north campus quadrangle between Burden, Evans, Shryock, and Risley halls.

The three randomly selected winners are Grace Nam, Ruben Hernandez Sr., and MaryJane Rasnic. Please e-mail pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

The building (pictured above) served as a hospital until 1924, after which it acted as a men’s dormitory. When was the building torn down? Please e-mail the correct answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, Sept. 23, for the chance to become a random winner. One answer per person.

]]>
Thu, 11 Sep 2014 13:41:27 -0700
4264:18166 <![CDATA[LLU ranked No. 1 in national survey]]>

Here’s the answer to a burning trivia question. Out of 1.4 million college and university alumni surveyed, which higher education organization’s graduates scored highest on this question: How meaningful do you feel your job is? The answer:  Loma Linda University.

Every year, an organization called PayScale surveys bachelor’s alumni from over 1,000 U.S. colleges and universities. In addition to collecting data on income, they also ask: Does your work make the world a better place? This year, Loma Linda University alumni ranked in the No. 1 spot; 91 percent of Loma Linda University bachelor’s graduates said working in their jobs helped to “make the world a better place.”

“I’m delighted by this ranking,” said Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health. “As our alumni are living out our mission every day, bringing wholeness to all the ends of the earth, this recognition makes me proud of the heritage of our university, the spirit and dedication of our faculty and staff, and all of our medical professionals who train our students for lives of real service — locally, nationally and globally.”

The ranking put Loma Linda far ahead of Ivy League schools such as Harvard, Yale and Princeton, often ranked in the top three spots on some college surveys. In the PayScale alumni survey on meaningful jobs, only about 65 percent of the three Ivies’ alumni answered yes to the question.

The next three institutions following LLU were University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, Texas, and Medical College of Georgia in Augusta (both tied for 88 percent), and Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (86 percent).

In the same survey, Loma Linda University was also ranked among the top for the highest starting salary.

The Atlantic and The Washington Post have reported the news of LLU’s No. 1 ranking.

]]>
Thu, 11 Sep 2014 13:26:05 -0700
4264:18161 <![CDATA[Inland Empire Magazine names region's 'Top Doctors']]> Herbert Atienza More than a quarter of the physicians listed on Inland Empire magazine’s “Top Doctors” edition completed their medical school and/or specialty training at Loma Linda University School of Medicine (LLUSM) or are currently on the faculty.

In its latest issue, Inland Empire magazine lists the region’s top doctors, based on a peer review survey conducted by an independent group. The region’s top doctors who are from Loma Linda University Health are:

Anesthesiology: Richard Applegate II, alumnus. Cardiac surgery: Leonard Bailey, alumnus; Anees Razzouk, alumnus. Cardiology: Kenneth Jutzy, alumnus. Dermatology: Abel Torres. Emergency medicine: Richard Guth, alumnus. Endocrinology: John Lamont Murdoch, alumnus. Family practice: Gina Jervey-Mohr, alumna. Gastroenterology: Michael Walter, alumnus. General surgery: Richard Catalano, alumnus. Geriatrics: James Larson, alumnus. Hematology/oncology: Chien-Shing S. Chen. Infectious disease: Ingrid Blomquist, alumna. Infertility: John Jacobson, alumnus. Otorhinolaryngology: Christopher Church, alumnus. Pediatrics: Michelle Loh, alumna; Ravindra Rao. Psychiatry: Cameron Johnson, alumnus. Pulmonary disease: Phillip Gold. Radiology-diagnostic: Kendra Fisher; Shannon Kirk, alumnus. Rehabilitation: Scott Strum, alumnus.

Graduates of LLUSM who are on the “Top Doctors” list include the following physicians:

James Munson; Lawrence Robinson; Larry Potts; Lawrence Harms; Janet Ihde; Wallace Gosney; Dennis Hilliard; Douglas Hay; Shelley Thio; Lawrence Clark; Berneva Adams; Alonso Ojeda; Ray Glendrange; Richmond Roeske; Robert Rosenquist Jr.; William Smith; George Gustafson; Allen Hwang; Timothy Jung; Robert Hardesty; Robert Summerour; Theodore Shankel; Mel Cherne; Cherry Brandstater; Vance Johnson; Victor Ching and Christopher Tsai.

 “We are very proud of our physicians because they truly exemplify our mission of continuing the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ,” says Kerry Heinrich, CEO, Loma Linda University Medical Center. “I believe the recognition received by our physicians from their peers reflects the effort they put forth to be the best they can be, and helps us reach our goal of providing healing for the whole person.”

Roger Hadley, MD, dean, LLUSM, says the list of physicians shows the tremendous impact that the institution has made on health care in the region and beyond.

“Our doctors make and continue to make a difference in our local communities and throughout the world,” he says.

]]>
Thu, 11 Sep 2014 12:10:38 -0700
4264:18160 <![CDATA[Recognize colleagues who are 'Living Whole']]> Nancy Yuen Nominations are now open for the Living Whole honors, which recognizes employees who are Living Whole. 

Living Whole honor recipients will have their picture posted on the Living Whole Wellness Program website, and will receive a Living Whole gift.

Examples of potential nominees include LLUH staff who:

  • are advocates for health in the workplace
  • promote self-care and wellness
  • have overcome a great obstacle and inspire Living Whole
  • have completed a 3k, 5k, half marathon, triathlon or similar competition

To make your nomination, download the form below and submit it according to its instructions.

]]>
Thu, 11 Sep 2014 11:42:12 -0700
4264:18159 <![CDATA[Be prepared: code silver -- active shooter drill]]> Nancy Yuen Loma Linda University Health is hosting a disaster shooter training course Tuesday, September 16, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the LLU School of Medicine Medical Simulation Center in the Centennial Complex.

The course will include a code silver (active shooter) simulation by the Redlands Police Department, so those in or near the Centennial Complex should be aware that they may observe unusual noise or activity related to the drill.

]]>
Thu, 11 Sep 2014 11:34:35 -0700
4264:18079 <![CDATA[Hansen assumes role in LLUMC operations; Lang appointed CFO ]]> Jiggs Gallagher Terry Hansen has joined Loma Linda University Medical Center (LLUMC) as a consultant for hospital operations. 

“Hansen’s extensive experience in a variety of settings will serve us well as we move toward separate licensure for Children’s Hospital, look to recruit talented individuals for several positions and improve our bottom line in order to realize the goals of ‘Vision 2020, the campaign for a whole tomorrow,’” said Kerry Heinrich, CEO of LLUMC. 

Hansen began his career in health care at St. Helena Hospital in northern California, where he served for 17 years as director and vice president. For five years he was President of Hospital Governance, Inc., a health-care consulting firm. After leaving Loma Linda in 2000, he served nearly five years as President/CEO of Paradise Valley Hospital in National City, California (near San Diego). Since 2005, he has served as interim CEO at three hospitals and has consulted with a number of health care organizations. In those positions he has worked to contain costs, improve financial performance and develop reorganization plans.

Hansen has a total of over 40 years of health care administrative and consulting experience. He has worked collaboratively and effectively with physicians and has extensive experience in strategic planning, communication, community relations and staff development. Mr. Hansen holds a master’s degree in public health from Loma Linda University and a bachelor of arts degree in chemistry from Pacific Union College.

“I’m a firm believer in the aims and the mission of Loma Linda University Health,” Hansen said. “I look forward to working with my colleagues to take a good thing and make it better.”

LLU Medical Center also has a new chief financial officer in Kevin J. Lang, CPA, MBA, who has served at Loma Linda University Health since July of 2004, currently as CFO and executive vice president for finance and administration, Loma Linda University Health; and president/CEO of Loma Linda University Shared Services. He will also now serve as CFO for entities including LLU Behavioral Medicine Center, Children’s Hospital, and LLU Medical Center–Murrieta.

“I could not be more excited to be part of a team with Kerry Heinrich and Terry Hansen,” Lang says.

“It is so important for the medical center at this time to achieve certain operational and financial goals. In addition to customer satisfaction and employee engagement, we have to keep a keen eye on financial targets to help support the overall mission of our organization and to serve the Inland Empire and support the campus transformation project.”

]]>
Fri, 05 Sep 2014 12:46:52 -0700
4264:18045 <![CDATA[Service-learning in Sri Lanka]]> advancement films ]]> “We’re given talents and we’re given gifts for a very good reason — giving them away is entirely what they were designed for,” says a volunteer featured in this video about a mission trip to Sri Lanka with LLU Students for International Mission Service. 

]]>
Thu, 04 Sep 2014 13:50:49 -0700
4264:18043 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- Moving in]]> Heather Reifsnyder Welcome to Rosario Floridia, Janice Fonda, and Gloria Elder —all first-time winners of this weekly trivia contest. They are the three randomly selected individuals from the 34 people who correctly answered last week’s question of when the Loma Linda Sanitarium admitted its first patients, the answer being Oct. 1905. Winners, please e-mail pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

Eight years and two months after the sanitarium admitted its first patients, a new Loma Linda Hospital building welcomed patients on December 1, 1913. It was later torn down to make way for future campus plans. Where on the present-day LLU campus did this hospital sit?

Email the correct answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, September 9, for the chance to become a random winner. One answer per person.

 

]]>
Thu, 04 Sep 2014 13:47:46 -0700
4264:18040 <![CDATA[Volunteers needed for 'A Walk to Remember' ]]> Isaiah Aguirre “A Walk to Remember” event celebrates the lives of precious babies lost in pregnancy and infancy. More than 1,800 visitors are expected to attend this year’s walk — and volunteers are needed to make the event a success.

The 9th annual walk will take place Sunday, October 12, at Loma Linda University Church starting at 3:30 p.m. Bestselling author Angie Smith will be this year’s special guest speaker. Many of the expected 1,800+ attendees will be making their first visit to the LLUH campus during a difficult time in their life.

“A Walk to Remember” events are hosted throughout the nation in honor of National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. These events offer individuals opportunities to navigate through the difficult tragedy of losing a baby (pregnancy loss, stillbirth, and infant loss of any kind).

The “A Walk to Remember” event for LLU Children’s Hospital will help grieving families and friends locally through the journey of remembering the loss of their baby.

It takes the generous support of the LLUH family to make this type of an event successful. Approximately 300 volunteers are needed. Various volunteer roles exist and two time shifts are available.

To volunteer, please sign up at lluh.org/AWTRvolunteer.

Download the event flier below.

For additional information, please contact Stevieann Beach, patient experience coordinator, at SBeach@llu.edu or 909-558-7005.

]]>
Thu, 04 Sep 2014 13:44:46 -0700
4264:18038 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- 'Oh, my back']]> HealthDay News Even though back pain affects nearly 10 million Americans a year, there's a lot you can do to avoid the problem.

It begins with healthy habits, including not smoking along with maintaining proper weight through good nutrition and exercise. Good posture, balance, strength, and flexibility help increase core strength to support the back.

"All these elements can preserve a good back, keep our bones and bodies strong, and help the body heal should injury occur," says Kathy Dieringer, a National Athletic Trainers' Association board member.

To maintain good posture, keep your shoulders back when sitting, avoid slouching, and don't sit for more than 30 minutes without moving around.

It's also important to support your back when sitting or sleeping. Sit with your knees slightly bent and higher than your hips. When in bed, try to maintain your lumbar curves and use pillows if necessary, Dieringer says.

Core muscles make up the powerhouse in the center of your body, according to the Federal Occupational Health website of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Core muscles include abdominal muscles, back muscles, and muscles in the pelvic region.

Dieringer advises strengthening your core using exercises such as crunches, modified crunches with weights or medicine balls, planks, bridges, and back extensions. When exercising, be sure to work on both lower and upper back muscles. It's also important to do exercises that help maintain back flexibility.

If you're inactive, get moving. Walking is a great way to maintain good back health, according to Dieringer.

Remember to lift with your legs, bend at the knees, and keep your back straight. Don't twist when carrying objects. Turn your entire body and keep your hips and shoulders facing the same direction. If you're doing work — such as gardening — that requires lots of bending or stooping, take frequent breaks and stretch your back when you stand up.

If you do experience back pain, stop your activity, rest, and consult your doctor. Ignoring back pain can lead to complications, Dieringer warns.


Source: LLU Medical Center Health Library

]]>
Thu, 04 Sep 2014 13:41:46 -0700
4264:18036 <![CDATA[Prevent diabetes: free weekend symposium ]]> Herbert Atienza Loma Linda University Health Drayson Center Preventive Care Clinic will focus on diabetes prevention and lifestyle issues at the upcoming 3rd annual LLU Health Symposium.

The two-day event, free and open to the public, is set for 7–9 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 12, at the Randall Amphitheater (adjacent to the Del E. Webb Memorial Library), 11072 Anderson St., Loma Linda.; and 5 to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 13, at Loma Linda University Church, 11125 Campus St., Loma Linda.

Topics to be discussed and speakers at the symposium include

• “Diabetes and Stress” with Hildemar Dos Santos, MD, DrPH, LLU School of Public Health
• “Diabetes and Exercise” with Ronald Rea, DSc, LLU School of Allied Health Professions
• “Diabetes and Diet” with Maryellen Westerberg, DrPH, School of Public Health and School of Allied Health Professions; and
• “Diabetes and Supplements” with Hildemar Dos Santos MD, DrPH, LLU School of Public Health.

In 2012, more than 29 million children and adults in the United States, or 9.3 percent of the population, had diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association.

For more information, call 909-651-5077.

]]>
Thu, 04 Sep 2014 13:36:49 -0700
4264:18034 <![CDATA[Nominations open for Spiritual Life Service Awards]]> The nomination period is open through Sept. 22 for the Spiritual Life Service Awards from Loma Linda University Health. The awards are given to employees of any LLUH entity who demonstrate:

• A vibrant faith in God that leads to extraordinary care for the spiritual well-being of others.
• An effective ability to bring hope and meaning in the midst of educational or health care challenges.

To nominate someone you believe deserves this award, please provide the following:

  1. Employee name
  2. The department he or she works in
  3. A brief paragraph indicating how this individual meets the criteria listed above. 

Please be specific about their spiritual influence and service to others.

Email your nominations to mrasnic@llu.edu by September 22, 2014.

Gerald Winslow, PhD, vice president for spiritual life, will present awards at the Spiritual Life and Wholeness Banquet on Tuesday, October 28.

Note: People previously awarded are not eligible for three years.

]]>
Thu, 04 Sep 2014 13:33:58 -0700
4264:18032 <![CDATA[Behavioral Medicine Center receives Platinum status ]]> Briana Pastorino Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center has been awarded Platinum status by Optum, formerly known as United Behavioral Health, for the remarkable care it continues to provide in the Inland Empire working with behavioral health needs.

“We continue to strive to deliver the highest quality and cost-efficient health care to our patients,” says Edward Field, MBA, executive director, LLU Behavioral Medicine Center. “This honor reinforces our efforts, and we look forward to continue to perform at this high level.”

Rick Jemanez, MD, Optum’s national medical director, external health plans, shares, “I believe Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center truly represents the epitome of what outstanding mental health care services can and should be. They are a credit to their community and to the mental health profession at large.”

The Behavioral Medicine Center (BMC) was honored with the Platinum distinction based on clinical data collected by Optum over the course of an entire year. Optum looked at specific criteria and determined that the BMC has fewer readmission rates, has better follow-up rates than other regional facilities measured, has shown a reduction in duration of stay without compromising treatment outcomes and, on average, costs patients less to receive successful treatment.

Field continues, “We are extremely proud and honored to have received this Platinum distinction. It’s truly a well-deserved acknowledgement of the great work being performed by our team. When one of our providers refers a patient to our facility, they know their patient is going to receive excellent care. That is the kind of trust we’ve built over the years. Receiving Optum’s Platinum status serves to affirm that our providers’ trust is well placed with Loma Linda.”

]]>
Thu, 04 Sep 2014 13:28:56 -0700
4264:17939 <![CDATA[Making a difference -- street medicine ministry]]> advancement films ]]> LLU student volunteers are putting their medical skills to work at a San Bernardino homeless shelter. “If you’re not there for them, nobody is,” says Barry Howe, medical student. Watch how they’re making a difference. 

]]>
Thu, 28 Aug 2014 12:45:12 -0700
4264:17937 <![CDATA[Campus Street to close one day next week]]> Pre-cast beams will be installed for the new pedestrian bridge over Campus Street on Wednesday, Sept. 3. Campus Street from the emergency department exit to physicians parking lot G East will be closed from 4:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. that day.

G East physicians lot will remain open with one-way traffic — access from University Avenue only. Workers with flags will be present to assist traffic flow. 

To access the parking structures from Barton Road, please use the Violet Molnar way detour and enter at the University Avenue entrance.

The new West Hall parking structure entrance and exit will be closed from 8:30 a.m. through 9:00 p.m.; please enter and exit through the old structure (lot G) using levels two and three during that time.

The Campus Street entrance to lot G (old parking structure) will remain open at all times. 

Roads will NOT be open to emergency vehicles.

The department of parking & traffic encourages employees to arrive early or find alternative routes during this time, as major delays will be expected. 

For questions regarding the detour, please contact parking & traffic services at 909-651-3025 or parking@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 28 Aug 2014 12:40:50 -0700
4264:17935 <![CDATA[Changes to parking lot B accessibility]]> After-hours use of the administrative parking lot (lot B) will no longer be available to employees/physicians that do not have badge access.

At 5:00 p.m. each day, the gates on lot B have been opened, allowing employees without badge access to park in the administrative lot. This alleviated some of the parking challenges that employees were experiencing in the old parking structure. But the addition of parking spaces in the new structure minimizes the need for the ongoing employee use of lot B.

Effective Sept. 1, after-hours use of lot B will be repurposed as parking for on-call residents that are called into the hospital. 

Historically the on-call residents have parked in the Wong Kerlee lot (G East); however, many times resident physicians are not able to exit the lot in the early morning in time to free up parking spaces for arriving attending physicians. This means that the attending physicians — who treat patients at multiple locations or have a short meeting at one location before leaving for another location — are having to park in the parking structure, making it challenging to quickly get from one location to another.

While parking has always been a challenge, with the recent movement of various surgeries to East Campus and Heart & Surgical Hospital to accommodate the separate licensing of the Children’s Hospital, attending physicians have experienced additional parking inconveniences. In order to provide easier access to parking in the Wong Kerlee lot for the attending physicians treating patients in multiple locations on the same day, resident access to lot G East is discontinued and allocated to lot B.

Starting Sept. 1, 2014, anyone who has been parking in Lot B in the evenings (without badge access) will need to park in the parking structures or other available parking. 

These changes will be assessed for several months to determine if additional changes are necessary.

]]>
Thu, 28 Aug 2014 12:36:12 -0700
4264:17933 <![CDATA[New target date for Children's Hospital separate licensure ]]> The process of obtaining separate licensure for LLU Children’s Hospital is moving forward with a timeline for an effective license date of November 1, 2014.

The original July 1 target date was postponed due to unforeseen circumstances. However, efforts have continued and to date, significant accomplishments include:

  • Separation of the eight basic services, including a new Children’s Hospital pharmacy storage on unit 2800, distinct Children’s Hospital way finding and signage, a new kitchen and room-service program, distinct Children’s Hospital operating rooms and separate diagnostic radiology services
  • New Children’s Hospital facility in LLEAP
  • Separate financial/accounting structure for Children’s Hospital, and
  • Children’s Hospital policies and procedures.

The administrations thanks those involved in this process for their dedication and hard work.

Prior to November 1, outstanding major milestones to complete the separation include:

  • Completion of the new Children’s Hospital basic clinical lab on unit 3700
  • CDPH licensing survey

Additionally, the Joint Commission is expected to survey the Children’s Hospital any time after CDPH licensure.

Employees are asked to please continue their outstanding efforts and commitment toward this Board-approved institutional initiative. The flexibility and support as this transition is made are greatly appreciated.

To keep up with the latest information, please contact your department head or visit the VIP intranet site.

]]>
Thu, 28 Aug 2014 12:30:07 -0700
4264:17931 <![CDATA[Unprecedented Ebola outbreak causes LLUH travel restrictions]]> Because of the continuing Ebola epidemic in West Africa, Loma Linda University Health has put out a notice that all non-essential LLUH-sponsored travel will no longer be approved to a group of 18 countries. The restriction was put in place August 19, and will be in effect until further notice. Only highly specialized emergency response staff may be approved to travel there on a case-by-case basis by the LLUH global outreach administrative committee (GOAC). 

Travel is suspended to Benin, Burkina Faso, Congo, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ivory Coast, Cape Verde, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone and Togo.

The current Ebola epidemic is unprecedented, and the World Health Organization has declared that the outbreak spreading across West Africa is an international health emergency. The short-term insurance provider for the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists and Loma Linda University Health is unable to extend insurance coverage for travel to the countries listed above.

Anyone with questions should contact the Global Health Institute at ext. 44420 or ghi@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 28 Aug 2014 12:24:55 -0700
4264:17930 <![CDATA[Board report ]]> Members of the various boards that govern the entities of Loma Linda University Health met on August 25 and 26.

This month’s deliberations were important on several counts. First, Kerry Heinrich, interim chief executive officer of Loma Linda University Medical Center and interim administrator of Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital, was named CEO of both facilities, as well as the Behavioral Medicine Center.  He has served in the interim positions since July 1. A 23-member search committee — representing hospital, university and physician leadership — recommended Heinrich’s appointment.

Board members heard extensive reports on the public launch of Vision 2020, mapping a strategy for the six-year campaign to raise $350 million in philanthropic support, part of the $1.2 billion visionary plan to improve health care and develop new educational techniques for the Inland Empire, California and the world beyond.

A second major theme was “One Loma Linda,” an initiative to improve efficiency and accountability throughout the entire Loma Linda enterprise. This discussion is now moving into action steps and a follow-up strategy will be presented to the boards in December. Several major areas have already been integrated, including advancement, risk management, electronic medical records, legal, compliance, decision support, Shared Services, and integrating the Faculty Medical Groups into one corporation. Board members approved the “One Loma Linda” concept in principle, with implementation strategies and timelines to be presented in early December.

The board also reviewed architectural drawings for the San Bernardino Campus and plans for groundbreaking on this project in December.

Finally, members toured the new cyclotrons in the Cancer Center, which are currently being installed. They heard reports on how the instruments will enhance research capabilities.

]]>
Thu, 28 Aug 2014 12:16:03 -0700
4264:17926 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- A delightful situation]]> Heather Reifsnyder “This it the most delightful situation for a sanitarium I have ever seen.”

To name the person who wrote these words was last week’s trivia challenge, and the answer is Ellen White, Loma Linda University Health’s co-founder.

The quote was from a letter she wrote Aug. 22, 1905, in which she added, “The scenery is magnificent, and everything possible has been done to beautify the premises.” 

Gerald D. Andrews, Lisa Marie Benanti, and Geoffrey Baugh are the three winners chosen randomly from the individuals who submitted the correct answer. Please e-mail pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

The Loma Linda Sanitarium incorporated two days later on Aug. 24, 1905, with John Burden as president. When did the sanitarium admit its first patients? Name the month and year.

Please send the answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, Sept. 2, for a chance to win. One answer per person.

 

]]>
Thu, 28 Aug 2014 12:03:09 -0700
4264:17925 <![CDATA[CEO appointed for LLU Medical Center]]> Jiggs Gallagher Kerry Heinrich, interim chief executive officer of Loma Linda University Medical Center and interim administrator of Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital, has been named permanent CEO of both facilities, as well as the LLU Behavioral Medicine Center. His appointment was approved by two governing boards on August 25. He had served in the interim positions since July 1.

“I’m looking forward with eager anticipation to the challenges and successes we will have as an organization wholly dedicated to the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ,” Heinrich said. “The coming years are going to be a dynamic, exciting time for Loma Linda. It will be a privilege to serve with my colleagues.”

Heinrich has had a long association with Loma Linda as an attorney, serving on the legal counsel team. Since joining the organization in 1984, he has conducted contract negotiations and negotiated financial acquisitions and complex corporate restructures. He has also led major initiatives to improve reimbursements for the health care entities.

A 23-member search committee — representing hospital, university and physician leadership — recommended Heinrich’s appointment.

“After considering a number of strong internal and external candidates from many parts of the nation, he rose to the top as a natural choice,” said Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health. “Not only does he have the right mix of business acumen, knowledge of Loma Linda’s culture, and passion for our mission, he has also demonstrated during his interim term the ability to provide the type of leadership we need during this critical time in Loma Linda’s history. For these reasons, the boards approved the search committee’s recommendation.”

Heinrich will provide strategic leadership for — and oversee the day-to-day operations of — the six hospitals that together form Loma Linda University Medical Center. In addition, he will serve as executive vice president for hospital affairs of Loma Linda University Health.

Hart added that he was delighted to welcome Heinrich to this important leadership role on a permanent basis. “Kerry has the requisite skills and leadership ability to move us forward as our organization is changing and maturing. He will be a great blessing in this position.”

With Kerry now in place, Hart said the administration will make a strong effort to recruit able administrators to fill other positions in the medical center, moving quickly to identify individuals to fill key leadership roles.

Kerry received his bachelor’s degree in history and a minor in business with an emphasis in finance and management from Walla Walla University in Washington. He earned a juris doctor (JD) degree from the University of Oregon’s School of Law and has specialized in health-care law.

]]>
Thu, 28 Aug 2014 11:58:28 -0700
4264:17923 <![CDATA[Cancer Center receives $150,000 donation ]]> Briana Pastorino and Nancy Yuen Jeanne Malcuit, a breast cancer survivor, spoke passionately about her experience at Loma Linda University Cancer Center during a check presentation from Inland Women Fighting Cancer and Stater Bros. Charities.

“The Cancer Center provided me with a social worker whose dedication to my case allowed me to focus on getting well,” she said. Malcuit received a $15,000 bill her insurance refused to pay because they believed her treatment was experimental. When her social worker contacted the necessary doctors and the insurance company to explain that the treatment was not experimental, but necessary, he was able to resolve the issue. Malcuit also used the support group services at the patient resource center within the Cancer Center.

Patients like Malcuit receiving treatment at Loma Linda University Cancer Center (LLUCC) will receive enhanced support services thanks to a gift of $150,000 from Stater Bros. Charities and Inland Women Fighting Cancer. 

Representatives from the two organizations presented a check to Cancer Center officials on Aug. 7. Funds were raised at the 6th annual Believe Walk, which took place Oct. 6, 2013.

Because services that helped Malcuit are not covered by insurance, “It is incredibly powerful to receive a donation like this,” says Judy Chatigny, executive director for the Cancer Center. “Donations of this caliber allow us to focus more on our patients’ treatment.”

“Stater Bros. Charities knows how important the Cancer Center is to the community and its patients,” said Susan Atkinson, president and CEO of Stater Bros. Charities. “It’s very important to us that it continues to have the resources it needs to be a critical and meaningful role in the lives of its patients.

“We are pleased to present this gift because it will help enhance services that may not be normally covered by medical insurance — services that are much needed by the patients,” Atkinson continued.

Mark Reeves, MD, PhD, director of Loma Linda University Cancer Center, said the ongoing support from Stater Bros. Charities and Inland Women Fighting Cancer is enhancing the treatment patients receive at the center.

“It has been a blessing to be partners with Stater Bros. Charities and Inland Women Fighting Cancer because they have been tireless advocates for cancer patients in the Inland Empire,” he says. 

Believe Walk is a community-based, volunteer-driven, grassroots event in Redlands, California, that engages more than 10,000 participants, donors and sponsors who have invested over $2 million in the fight against cancer since 2008. Many Loma Linda University Health employees participate in the event, with funds raised donated to support local cancer centers and cancer-fighting organizations’ initiatives.

The 7th annual Believe Walk will take place on Oct. 5.

]]>
Thu, 28 Aug 2014 11:23:03 -0700
4264:17750 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- An auspicious August]]> Heather Reifsnyder On August 15, 2000, Loma Linda University Medical Center performed its first autologous stem cell transplant (autologous meaning that the transplanted cells are taken from the patient’s own blood or bone marrow). The random winners of last week’s challenge are Rachel E. Gonzalez, Cindy Messer and Jimmy Jacobsmeyer, who correctly identified the type of transplant done that day. Please e-mail pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.   

Going back to another August — August of 1905 — a founder of Loma Linda University Health and leader of the Seventh-day Adventist Church made a statement about the campus on the 22nd of that month that has oft been repeated: “This is the most delightful situation for a sanitarium I have ever seen.”

This proclamation reminds of God’s guidance in acquiring the land Loma Linda University Health still sits on, which this same founder had seen in a vision prior to the property purchase.

Who was this leader?

E-mail the answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, August 26, for the chance to win.  

]]>
Thu, 21 Aug 2014 13:22:11 -0700
4264:17741 <![CDATA[Dr. Hart accepts ice bucket challenge ]]> Nancy Yuen On Wednesday, August 20, just before noon Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH, president, Loma Linda University Health (LLUH), accepted the ice bucket challenge in support of ALS research.

Flanked by Drayson Center lifeguards and reclining in a red pool chair, Dr. Hart said that he was accepting the challenge from Daniel Handysides, DrPH, assistant professor, LLU School of Public Health, in support of ALS. “Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or ALS as we call it,” he said, “is a debilitating disease of the nervous system that can result in death. I am willing to make a significant contribution to its cause.”

Hart chose to accept the challenge at the Drayson Center pool. “I am doing it here for two reasons,” he said, “first, the drought in California. Let’s use water where we can recycle it into our swimming pool here at the Drayson Center; andsecondly, in respect for the work I have the privilege of doing in developing countries where women typically spend up to half of theirdaylight hours carrying water. Water is a very precious resource and I want to mention that in this setting.

“Finally, the only thing I don’t like to do is get my hair wet but I guess we’re ready. “

On cue, Michael Rister, Drayson Center manager for aquatics, doused Hart with an ice and water from an Igloo cooler.

As the gathered crowd shouted, “Yes” and cheered, Hart stood and turned to reveal his Vision 2020 T-shirt.

Hart has challenged Kevin Lang, MBA, executive vice president, chief financial officer, LLUH; Kerry Heinrich, interim CEO, Loma Linda University Medical Center; and Rod Neal, MBA, senior vice president for finance, Loma Linda University, to take the #alsicebucketchallenge #icebucketchallenge #strikeoutals.

Video of Dr. Hart’s ice bucket challenge has been posted to the LLUH Facebook page, and has been “liked” 531 times and shared 104 times, as of lunchtime Thursday. Go to Facebook to check it out, and like the LLUH page if you haven't yet.

www.facebook.com/lomalindauniversity

]]>
Thu, 21 Aug 2014 12:08:06 -0700
4264:17740 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- Stay young]]> Time takes its toll on a body, but you don't have to sit back and let the effects of aging take place without a fight. There are things you can do by Living It to control the aging process and even reverse some of the damage that's already been done. 

DNA damage causes a great deal of aging. Smoking, too much sun, and other factors can cause DNA damage. Additionally, part of the aging process is caused by oxidation, the breakdown of cells and tissues as they mingle with oxygen. This can occur because of excessive alcohol use.

You can fight that process by adopting healthy lifestyle habits that:

  • Help your immune system fight disease,
  • Build up reserves of lean muscle mass,
  • Prevent or slow degenerative changes, and
  • Rebuild damaged tissue and restore lost function.

How to add to your quality of life

Anti-aging strategies can add to the quality of your life and health no matter how old you are. For example, studies have found people in their 40s, 50s, and 60s who start strength-training programs gain increased protection from injury.

The Centers for Disease Control offers a number of ideas for staying healthy. Below are some of the CDC's suggestions for healthy aging:

  • Don't smoke. Each puff hastens the degenerative processes of aging. Plus, smoking lowers your aerobic capacity, making it harder for you to do the things you enjoy and making you feel old before your time.
  • Eat foods rich in antioxidants. Vitamins A, C, and E fight free-radical formation, the oxidation process that damages tissues. Eating 5-½ cups of fruits and vegetables daily will help you get enough of these vitamins. Among the best sources are broccoli, cauliflower, red peppers, and other red, yellow, and green vegetables.
  • Eat lots of fiber. Dietary fiber found in beans, broccoli, bran, and other complex carbohydrates helps lower cholesterol, aids digestion, and defends against some kinds of cancers.
  • Maintain healthy cholesterol levels. Keep your total cholesterol level below 200 mg/dL and your percentage of protective HDL cholesterol high. Following a diet that limits your fat intake to 30 percent or less of your total calories will help. Maintaining a healthy weight also is beneficial.                                                      
  • Control your blood pressure.
  • Exercise regularly. Advancing age robs you of aerobic capacity. Performing 30 minutes of moderate activity on a nearly daily basis can help you retain your capacity.
  • Build strength. As you age, you lose muscle mass; this decreases your strength and agility, and reduces your ability to burn calories efficiently. Regular strength training can help reverse this trend.
  • Be flexible. Tight muscles limit your range of motion and increase your injury risk. A daily stretching routine that works each of your major muscle groups will help you stay supple.
  • Get enough sleep. While you rest, your body uses the nutrients you've consumed that day to repair the damage done by the day's activities. Not getting enough sleep keeps your immune system from doing its job and keeps your body in a state of disrepair.
  • Take care of your back. Keep muscles that support the spine strong and supple with cardiovascular and flexibility exercises. Use good body mechanics while lifting, standing, or sitting for long periods of time.
  • Deal with stress. Stress is linked to many diseases and degenerative conditions associated with aging. Learn to look at problems as challenges and accept situations you can't change.
  • Stay close to your friends and family. A circle of support helps you deal with problems better, feel healthier, and live longer.
  • Be nice. There's a relationship between hostility, heart disease, and other stress-related problems. Look for reasons to be pleasant and to forgive people who make you angry. You may live longer as a result, and you'll probably enjoy life more.

It's never too late to Live It by taking care of your physical and emotional health. Even one healthy change in your daily routine — like taking the stairs to your office — can make long-term, positive differences in the quality of your life. 

 

Source: Loma Linda University Medical Center Health Library
http://healthlibrary.lomalindahealth.org/RelatedItems/1,761

 

]]>
Thu, 21 Aug 2014 12:02:57 -0700
4264:17738 <![CDATA[More fun for pediatric patients in their hospital rooms]]> Herbert Atienza Children who are bedridden or otherwise unable to leave their rooms at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital will now get entertainment brought to them as Starlight Children’s Foundation, sponsored by Colgate-Palmolive and Stater Bros. Charities, presented four iPad tablets to the hospital on Aug. 18.

The iPad tablets, loaded with a number of animated, educational programs, are expected to keep pediatric patients company and distracted while going through sometimes difficult procedures and treatments.

“One of Stater Bros. Charities’ interests is improving children’s well-being and health, and we would like to help in any way we can to support the ongoing needs of the kids,” said Nancy Negrette, executive director of Stater Bros. Charities. “Some of the children are not even able to leave their rooms because they are receiving treatment, so the tablets, hopefully, will provide them with something to keep them interested and occupied.”

Rebecca Arnett, Colgate-Palmolive sales agency manager, said her company has long been supportive of providing resources to Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital, including previously partnering with Starlight Children’s Foundation to provide “fun centers,” or mobile entertainment and video game centers, to the hospital.

“It’s very exciting to be here to deliver these resources for the children,” she said. “Just to see them smile when they see these resources also makes you smile.”

]]>
Thu, 21 Aug 2014 11:47:45 -0700
4264:17733 <![CDATA[The news spreads]]> Jiggs Gallagher The “big reveal” of Vision 2020 on July 15 was truly a worldwide event. In addition to more than 2,000 guests on the campus lawn to hear the announcement of this monumental plan for the future, viewers in all 50 states and many nations around the world watched the event online and on satellite TV through various carriers.

The news about Vision 2020 is continuing to spread. The pledge of Dennis and Carol Troesh to give $100 million toward building a new Children’s Hospital tower, and the launch of a $350 philanthropic endeavor culminating in the year 2020, has been well received by the public in Southern California, the health care and philanthropic communities nationwide, Seventh-day Adventist Church members around the world, and many others.

People are talking all about it, if the early August ASI convention in Grand Rapids, Michigan, was any indication.  Jim Ponder, a writer in Loma Linda University Health’s public relations office, staffed an LLUH booth at the annual event.

Vision 2020 was the buzz of many people he met and talked to. He says, “Of the hundreds of people who visited our exhibit, many had watched the event online and many more had read and heard news of the announcement.

“They were uniformly excited about it,” he concludes.

This month, Richard L. Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health, and other administrators are embarking on the first of many events around the United States, carrying the Vision 2020 message to friends of the organization as well as potential donors.  The first such gatherings will take place in Seattle, Washington and Portland, Oregon, on the same day—August 24.

Rachelle Bussell, senior vice president of Advancement at LLUH, announced at the July 15 event that $149 million of the $350 was already in hand or committed to the campaign. Since then, she says millions of more dollars are under discussion from donors, and she hopes to receive confirmation of those commitments in the coming months.

The LLUH social media team has supported the effort to encourage employees and others to post messages on Vision 2020 on Facebook and Twitter. A campaign on Instagram resulted in 150 employees posting selfies with Vision 2020 messages.

Keep the news going. #V2020

]]>
Thu, 21 Aug 2014 11:13:03 -0700
4264:17729 <![CDATA[Why Vision 2020?]]> Advancement films ]]> “Why should we be limited? Why not go and fulfill those things that we’re called to do?” asks Dr. Tiffany Priester, an alumna featured in this video, along with others explaining why now is the time for change.

]]>
Thu, 21 Aug 2014 11:01:01 -0700
4264:17653 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It: Back-to-school weight gain]]> Heather Reifsnyder It’s far too easy to accidently put on pounds when school starts, particularly if going away from home. But by prioritizing the planning of your plate, along with exercise, it can be avoided.

No matter how busy you are, resist the temptation to forego meals. Never skip them, especially breakfast, which kick starts the metabolism. What to eat? Plenty of high-fiber foods (such as fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains) to feel fuller longer, and choose lean proteins and healthier fats (nuts, seeds, avocados, and canola or olive oils). Watch the portions, and keep dessert and fried foods off your plate.

Also avoid the pitfall of drinking your way into weight gain. Your body loves water. Stay away from sugary drinks and alcohol.

Adapted from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics 

]]>
Thu, 14 Aug 2014 15:35:00 -0700
4264:17652 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- More firsts]]> Heather Reifsnyder Hello to Gary Adrian, Mary Burger, and Daneitra Jordan—the three winners who correctly answered last week’s question regarding the fictitious name by which a certain special baby was known. This baby received the world’s first successful infant heart transplant at Loma Linda University Medical Center in 1985. Baby Moses is the answer. Winners, please e-mail pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

To continue with transplant history, tomorrow (August 15) is the 14th anniversary of the first ___________ transplant performed by Loma Linda University Medical Center. Fill in the blank and e-mail the correct answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, August 19, for the chance to be a random winner.

]]>
Thu, 14 Aug 2014 15:02:32 -0700
4264:17641 <![CDATA[Radiothon raises nearly $26,000 for LLU Children's Hospital]]> Briana Pastorino KOLA 99.9 FM held the 12th annual KOLA Cares for Kids Radiothon on August 8, raising nearly $26,000 for Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital.

“KOLA continues to make a huge difference for children in our community,” says Jillian Payne, executive director for LLU Children’s Hospital Foundation. “The entire KOLA team personally gets involved in raising awareness and vital funds for our Children’s Hospital. We are deeply grateful for the support of KOLA and their listeners for helping us provide lifesaving care to our kids.”

The station aired the radiothon live from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m., during which time listeners could call in, go online, or text to donate. Children’s Hospital employees, KOLA talent, and other community members volunteered their time to answer phones during the event.

Patients and family members also shared their personal testimonials about being treated at LLU Children’s Hospital on the air, including Tierra Harper, mom to now 1-year-old Emersyn, or “Emmy,” who was transported to Children’s Hospital as an infant after being born nearly three months prematurely with pyloric stenosis. “The muscle connecting her stomach to her small intestines had become thickened and didn’t allow food to exit her stomach,” Harper said of her daughter’s condition.

“Although we were very nervous for her to go into surgery,” she continued, “We felt confident in the doctors and surgical team. They were ready to answer any questions we had, talk us through step by step of what would happen during surgery, and what we should expect afterwards. It really helped put our minds at ease.”

For every $99.90 donated through the radiothon, Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital receives a KOLA Bear, which are used during transport and throughout other areas of the hospital to calm a child—and sometimes a parent—in a traumatic situation. The Children’s Hospital transport team considers KOLA Bear part of their team, just like any piece of equipment, and takes them on every call. Five hundred bears were generated through this year’s radiothon, and over the past 12 years, over $1.2 million has been raised.

“Patients like Emmy remind us how important something as simple as a little stuffed bear can mean to a child, or even a parent,” said Gary Springfield, program director, KOLA 99.9 FM. “This radiothon is just one way we can give back to the hospital that does so much for the kids in our community.”

During transport, Emmy’s mom received a KOLA Bear for her daughter, which she still has today. “She is a happy and healthy 1-year-old. Her strength amazes us every day.” 

]]>
Thu, 14 Aug 2014 13:55:06 -0700
4264:17638 <![CDATA[Update: library renovations]]> Heather Reifsnyder A modernization is under way at Loma Linda University’s Del E. Webb Memorial Library.

Carpet will be laid next week on the third floor, where the renovations are currently being focused. All new furniture is on order, including group workstations, and work on the ceiling and light fixtures has been completed.

About 30 new power outlets have been added to allow library users to plug in their personal devices, as well as laptops and tablets available for student checkout. Two dozen desktop computers will also be available.

Some of the book stacks and shelving have also been removed to create more workspace and because more content is becoming available digitally.

Library Director Carlene Drake, MSLS, explains that one floor is being renovated per year. The fourth floor was completed last year, and the bottom two floors (basement and lobby level) will get their turns in 2015 and 2016 respectively.

“It was time to renovate,” Drake says. “We strive to keep the library current for student needs. Most of the furniture was 34 years old. We needed a new look and more power options for personal devices. ”

An open house for the new third floor will be held before the end of the year. 

]]>
Thu, 14 Aug 2014 13:07:50 -0700
4264:17636 <![CDATA[Notes from the President]]> Richard Hart, MD, DrPH <

 
August 2014
Roots

I needed to do it. My parents, Ruth and Lewis Hart, are now 93, and suffering from the usual frailties of the aging process. Having lived most of their lives in the beautiful Northwest, they had the desire to make one more visit to their old stomping grounds, visiting relatives and friends.

So Judy and I flew to Portland with them, rented a small motor home, and spent 12 glorious days driving to Troy and Moscow, Idaho; Spokane, Yakima, and College Place, Washington; and Portland and Roseburg, Oregon. We visited the old homestead where Dad grew up in Moscow, and my boyhood home in Troy. I heard old stories repeated and a few new ones.

One I hadn’t heard was that my Grandpa Hart, with only an eighth-grade education and scratching out a living homesteading a few acres on the side of Moscow Mountain, was an early member of the National Geographic Society in 1914. This explains the shelves and shelves of magazines I remember at their home and his immense knowledge of the world despite never being able to travel. I also heard of his precious “telescope” being conscripted by the U.S. Department of War in 1942, and then returned at the end of World War II, well used, with a personal thank you from Franklin Roosevelt. How I wish I could talk to him again and share about my own travels.

Roots are important. They define who we are, explain our behaviors, and even chart our future. As part of Vision 2020 at Loma Linda University Health, we are spending a lot of time trying to look forward, many years forward, wondering what health care will be like 20, 30, even 50 years from now. How will health care be practiced? What new technologies can we expect? What will be the balance of outpatient versus inpatient services? What will hospitals look like? How do we prepare our students for that world?

As I shared last month, we have already been blessed with generous donors to Vision 2020, those who have confidence we have figured out those questions and will remain effective in whatever context emerges next. One thing I am certain about is that human emotions requiring personal connections, close relationships, and compassionate care will not become outdated in health care. Regardless of technology or circumstances, we will continue to have those needs and they must guide Loma Linda in its educational and service objectives for the future.

So how do we anchor our future in a way that gives us confidence we are on the right path? What road map, what GPS, can we program to get us where we want to be? A friend recently sent me a quote from Ellen White, one of the founders of Loma Linda, which I found powerful. In 1903 she said, “Again and again I have been shown that the past experiences of God’s people are not to be counted as dead facts. We are not to treat the record of these experiences as we would treat a last-year’s almanac. The record is to be kept in mind, for history will repeat itself.”

Sobering! As stewards of that history, are we using it well? How do we continue to anchor our future plans in the mission of this place, over a century of trials and triumphs, of tough decisions made by convicted individuals? I particularly worry about that as we continue to grow, in both size and complexity. How do we keep 15,000 employees and nearly 5,000 students sharing a common mission and purpose? Some would argue that we are already too big. Yet it seems impossible to train the diversity, quality, and number of graduates needed to staff our hospitals, clinics, and projects around the world without an institution of this size and complexity. Within those realities, how do we keep our focus in today’s world?

Probably the strongest compass in guiding Loma Linda’s path has been its continual commitment to serving others. It has been a central part of our student life, of our faculty and staff, and certainly of our alumni. When a person honestly confronts human need, in whatever form it occurs, it forces one to ask basic questions. Why did this happen? What should I do about it? Why me? Why here? Why now? My personal belief is that there is no better crucible for shaping our thoughts and actions than continually, deliberately placing ourselves in direct contact with those in need. So all of our service activities are not just about helping others, they are also about helping ourselves. They help us to clarify our strengths and weaknesses, refine our goals in life, and provide the framework for personal and corporate decisions.

So my burden, my goal, over the next few years of Vision 2020 will be to use our incredible history to give us confidence in our future. This is a very special place, not put on this earth for any ordinary purpose. Maintaining our commitment to service will help to focus our strategies and provide us with many guideposts for our future travels.

In closing I want to share with you a current example of this service commitment. Several years ago, two small hospitals joined Adventist Health International (AHI), a nonprofit organization based here at Loma Linda that works with Adventist mission hospitals in developing countries. They were Cooper Adventist Hospital in Monrovia, Liberia, and Waterloo Hospital in Freetown, Sierra Leone. As the world now knows, these institutions are at ground zero of the current Ebola outbreak in West Africa. Many hospitals in these countries have closed due to fear by both patients and hospital staff of contact with infected patients. Our staff members have struggled with the decision of what to do, balancing their own safety against the continuing medical needs of their patients. They recognized that the patients without Ebola virus disease still needed urgent care for things like obstetrical emergencies, severe trauma, life-threatening malaria, etc.

Our staff at Cooper Hospital, led by their young surgeon, Gillian Seton, contacted us a week ago, saying they wanted to keep the hospital open. After carefully assessing the issues, we agreed to send in supplemental funding, necessary supplies for infection control, and expertise to help in this emergency. Gillian graduated from LLU School of Medicine in 2008, took her surgery specialty, and started on a career of service in February under some of the most challenging circumstances. Fellow alumnus James Appel (he of the remarkable stories from Chad) has agreed to join her to care for the enormous workload inundating Cooper as the only hospital left open to serve the 1 million population in Monrovia. You can follow this ongoing story on the AHI or LLU websites at www.ahiglobal.org or www.llu.edu.

Please keep these brave young professionals in your prayers. And add a petition for this institution we call Loma Linda, striving to prepare just this kind of professional, willing to fully engage in a life of service.

Cordially yours, 

Richard Hart
President
Loma Linda University Health

]]>
Thu, 14 Aug 2014 13:00:03 -0700
4264:17522 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week-- Infant pioneers]]> Heather Reifsnyder Last week’s question asked which patient’s story was told during an event held by LLU School of Medicine in 2009 at the 25th anniversary of the historic case.

The little girl was known as Baby Fae—full name Stephanie Fae Beauclair—and she received the heart of a baboon at LLU Medical Center in 1984 in a pioneering surgical effort by Leonard Bailey, MD, to save her life after she was born prematurely with hypoplastic left-heart syndrome. At the time, no successful pediatric heart transplant had ever occurred.

The three random winners to correctly name Baby Fae are Heather Krause, Victoria Leyva, and Paula Ekema. Please e-mail pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

Baby Fae sadly died three weeks after the successful surgery for reasons still not understood. But the case paved the way for the world’s first successful infant cardiac transplant with a human donor heart in 1985, also performed by Bailey at Loma Linda University Medical Center.

By what fictitious name was this baby known? E-mail the answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, August 12, for the chance to be a random winner. 

]]>
Thu, 07 Aug 2014 13:54:26 -0700
4264:17519 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- Don't sweat it]]> Heather Reifsnyder Sometimes you see it—a jogger at midday in the Inland Empire summer heat—and wonder “why?” In addition to being uncomfortable, it can be dangerous.

An important part of “Living It” is exercise, but precautions should be taken when doing so in extreme heat, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It is wise to limit outdoor workouts, particularly during the middle of the day when the sun is at its cruelest.

If exercising outside, do it early or late in the day. Wear sunscreen and reapply as directed. Drink more water than normal—even if you’re not thirsty yet. Wear clothes that are lightweight, light-colored, and loose.

It’s also important to pace oneself by starting activity gently before slowly increasing intensity.

And know and take seriously the signs of heat-related illness, which requires medical care.

]]>
Thu, 07 Aug 2014 13:51:29 -0700
4264:17517 <![CDATA[Students showcase results of health disparities summer research program]]> Herbert Atienza About 80 students from diverse backgrounds from high schools and universities in the Inland Empire and nationwide capped off their summer by presenting posters on topics as diverse as human gene expression to treatment for spinal cord injury at a symposium on August 6 at Loma Linda University Health. 

The students’ work was showcased at the 14th annual Health Disparities Research Symposium, presented by Loma Linda University School of Medicine Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine. More than 300 researchers, students, community stakeholders, and university administrators attended the symposium.

The scientific posters represent the completion of the students’ work as participants in the center’s disparities research program, which pairs participating high school, undergraduate, post-graduate, and medical students with researchers and scientists at Loma Linda University Health to conduct scientific research.

The symposium featured as keynote speaker Johns Hopkins University professor Thomas A. LaVeist, PhD, a globally recognized expert in health disparities, who also spoke about the problems and prospects faced by researchers studying health inequalities.

“Passion can come at any age,” said Yamiko “Jessica” Chanza, 16, an incoming junior at Redlands High School, who wants to become a pediatric surgeon someday.

Chanza, whose family came from Malawi, Africa, said she had no idea what to expect when she joined the summer program, but knew that she wanted to make a difference in people’s health in some way.

“This experience really opened my eyes about the health disparities that exist in society, because even infants experience them,” said Chanza, who participated in a project looking at the effect of sugars on the metabolism of premature babies.

The Loma Linda University Health disparities research summer program, now in its 14th year, targets promising students from disadvantaged communities by Loma Linda University School of Medicine Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine to encourage them to consider careers in medicine and biomedical research and increase diversity in the medical research field. The Loma Linda University School of Medicine Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine has been designated by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) as a Center of Excellence on Health Disparities and Minority Health.

Research trainees are paired with academic mentors and engage in biomedical research conducted in various science, health and clinical departments at Loma Linda University Health and the Jerry L. Pettis VA Medical Center.

“What has been accomplished here today is that the students are becoming active participants in the dialogue concerning health disparities,” said Marino De Leon, PhD, director of Loma Linda University School of Medicine Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine.

He said it’s important for young researchers to be aware of health disparities — often drawn along racial and socioeconomic lines — that exist among members of society, in order to come up with research and treatment models that are meaningful to people.

“Diseases impact people in their own context, and these students can become an agent of change for their own communities,” he said.

]]>
Thu, 07 Aug 2014 13:45:11 -0700
4264:17515 <![CDATA[Breathe free]]> Heather Reifsnyder Breathefree2.com is a free stop-smoking program and website developed by Loma Linda University School of Public Health. Assistant Professor Daniel Handysides, DrPH, presented the program at the 2nd Global Conference on Health & Lifestyle in Geneva, Switzerland, last month, to positive reception by groups including the World Health Organization.

The program is designed to be supportive, motivational, and relational rather than fear-based. “You’re very hard-pressed to find a smoker today who doesn’t already know that smoking causes cancer,” Handysides says.

At the same time, Breathe-Free 2 is evidenced-based on the latest research in medical and behavioral science.

There are two ways the free program can be completed—either individually online or as part of a guided, facilitator-led group. So far, more than 100 facilitators from around the globe have signed on, and some 20 countries are requesting further training. A Spanish-language version will be available soon.

As a couple, Daniel and Sandra Handysides—she a nurse practitioner, alumna of LLU School of Nursing, and current doctoral student in the School of Public Health— spent more than two years developing and testing Breathe-Free 2. This happened because of a request to LLU School of Public Health from the International Commission for the Prevention of Alcoholism and Drug Dependency, which had in turn received a request from the United Arab Emirates to help military and police personnel stop smoking.

The Handysides moved to Abu Dhabi in 2011, at first using the original Breathe-Free Program to Stop Smoking—completed in 1984 by the health ministries department of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists and refined at the church’s request from 1988–1991 by the LLU Center for Health Promotion—before realizing it needed additional updating. When they returned to Loma Linda in 2013, they continued to work on it.

Breathe-Free 2 is the result, and the program will remain adaptive to keep up with the latest scientific research. It is run by LLU School of Public Health and owned by the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

For more information about Breathe-Free 2, e-mail Daniel Handysides at dhandysides@llu.edu.

The first Breathe-Free program was, in turn, a revision of the Five-Day Plan to Stop Smoking created by LLU School of Medicine alumnus J. Wayne McFarland, MD, and Elman Folkenberg, a pastor, which they introduced in 1959.

 

]]>
Thu, 07 Aug 2014 13:40:26 -0700
4264:17513 <![CDATA[Adventist hospitals remain open despite Ebola crisis]]> Courtney Beckwith The General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, in collaboration with Adventist Health International,* has decided to keep Cooper Adventist Hospital open in Liberia in spite of the deadly Ebola virus outbreak.

Many public hospitals in the West African nation and adjacent areas have shut down or are refusing to take on new patients, but the staff and faculty at Cooper made the decision to remain open for treatment of other illnesses. They are continuing to screen patients prior to entering the hospital grounds in order to remain free of the Ebola virus as near as possible so that they will be a source of help and safety to their patients and staff.

Due to the Ebola outbreak in Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone, both the General Conference and Adventist Health International were faced with a serious decision: should Cooper be closed in hopes of stopping the EVD spread and the physicians sent home for their own personal safety, or should the hospital remain operational?

Gillian Seton, MD, is a 2008 graduate from Loma Linda University School of Medicine and has been serving at Cooper as a deferred mission appointee since February 2014. Working as a general surgeon at the hospital, she believes the need for medical treatment outweighs the dangers involved in staying. 

“The most dangerous place to be right now is in a hospital, but what are you to do when you have a patient with an OB emergency? Appendicitis? Severe Malaria with almost un-survivable anemia?” Seton asks.

The discussion surrounding the closing of the hospital focused on the threat of continuing the spread of Ebola throughout the surrounding countries and the ever-growing need for medical treatment of other illnesses.

Seton said the reason the hospital has not been closed is because they’ve seen how desperate people are to get help after they have already been turned away from four of five hospitals due to staff-enforced closures.

According to Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Adventist Health International, Cooper hospital is to remain open based on four criteria:

1)   Adventist Health International will financially subsidize hospital operations during this crisis.
2)   Only staff who voluntarily decide to remain on duty should work.
3)   Adventist Health International will keep adequate supplies coming into the country.
4)   Additional professional help will be sent to Liberia as necessary.

Seton said that it was this willingness from Adventist Health International to provide aid to the hospital that led to the staff’s decision. The support and encouragement from the General Conference and Adventist Health International created a belief in their ability to stay open and help others.

Cooper is not the only Adventist Health International hospital in West Africa to be affected by this outbreak. Waterloo Adventist Hospital in Sierra Leone is also facing the Ebola crisis.

With the virus continuing to spread throughout West Africa, Cooper and Waterloo are in need of outside help. The hospitals are limited in supplies and equipment and in need of additional medical staff. But they are also in need of financial donations. To help during this crisis, readers are invited to visit www.ahiglobal.org for up-to-date news, and click donate to choose Cooper or Waterloo as their site of choice.

 

*About Adventist Health International

Adventist Health International (AHI) is a multinational nonprofit corporation with headquarters in Loma Linda, California. AHI has been established to provide coordination, consultation, management, and technical assistance to hospitals and health care services operated by the Seventh-day Adventist Church, primarily in developing countries. AHI is not a funding agency and depends on various organizations, foundations, governments and individuals to provide financial assistance when needed.

]]>
Thu, 07 Aug 2014 13:36:59 -0700
4264:17459 <![CDATA[School of Public Health dean appointed to national accrediting council]]> Marcus Chapman Tricia Penniecook, MD, MPH, dean of the School of Public Health at Loma Linda University, has been appointed to the CEPH board of councilors. The Council on Education for Public Health, or CEPH, is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as the accrediting body for all schools and programs of public health.

The appointment comes from the Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health (ASPPH), an organization that represents the interests and advancement of CEPH-accredited schools and programs. ASPPH and the American Public Health Association are the two corporate members that make up the private, nonprofit corporation that is CEPH.

Part of the 10-member board, Penniecook will serve a three-year term on the CEPH board of councilors with various responsibilities.

“As an independent body, the board is solely responsible for adopting criteria by which schools and programs are evaluated, for establishing policies and procedures, for making accreditation decisions, and for managing the business of the corporation,” the CEPH website states.

Penniecook's appointment, beginning January 1, 2015, comes exactly one year after the Loma Linda University School of Public Health radically changed from six single-discipline departments to three multidisciplinary academic centers: the Center for Community Resilience, the Center for Leadership in Health Systems, and the Center for Nutrition, Healthy Lifestyle and Disease Prevention.

]]>
Thu, 31 Jul 2014 14:41:06 -0700
4264:17456 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- A baby and a building]]> Heather Reifsnyder Brittni Jordan, Jo Anna Codington, and Angie Mora are the three winners from last week’s trivia question asking the date on which the grand opening was held for the LLU Centennial Complex. Please e-mail pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days. 

The correct date is October 28, 2009. This week’s question is about an event three days later on evening of the 31st of October, 2009. The School of Medicine held an event attended by more than 2,000 individuals who came to hear the story of a young patient cared for at LLU Medical Center 25 years earlier (1984). Who was this patient?

E-mail the correct answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, August 5, for the chance to be a random winner. One answer per person, please.   

]]>
Thu, 31 Jul 2014 14:36:08 -0700
4264:17454 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- The call of the wild]]> Heather Reifsnyder Crisscrossing the San Bernardino Mountains and our local ranges are numerous hiking trails that offer a great way to "Live It" through exercise and spiritual renewal. Consider this quote from naturalist and author John Muir:

"Climb the mountains and get their good tidings. Nature's peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you and the storms their energy, while cares will drop off like autumn leaves."

But what to do if one gets lost while hiking? The U.S. Forest Service has some answers.

Carry a map and compass. If lost, don't panic. Rather, observe any landmarks and use them to locate yourself on the map. And think back to how you arrived at your location.

If on a trail, stay on it. If daylight or your strength is fading, or you are injured, stop where you are.

If all else fails, streams and water drainage routes will often lead to a road.

]]>
Thu, 31 Jul 2014 14:33:56 -0700
4264:17453 <![CDATA[Summer cooking series to explore vibrant, healthy flavors]]> Nancy Yuen A special treat is being planned on the LLUH campus for home cooks of every skill level. Chef Cory Gheen, MS, a nutrition and dietetics instructor in the School of Allied Health Professions, will teach “In the kitchen summer cooking series.”

The series will consist of four courses: culinary basics I (August 18 and 20); culinary basics II (August 25 and 27); baking and pastries (September 1 and 3); and bread and rolls (September 8 and 10). Each course is a two-part series, with each participant learning and practicing skills in Nichol Hall’s research kitchen. There will be delicious food to prepare and samples to taste, with the $85 registration fee covering course materials.

Whether attending one course or more, the series will be a fun way to “Live It,” with Chef Cory teaching techniques to prepare delicious food while using less salt, sugar and fat. Students will leave with new skills that will allow them to cut down on time in the kitchen and use an increased understanding of flavor for creating pleasing meals.

An inquisitive food lover from childhood, Chef Cory studied at the Culinary Institute of America in New York before commencing a career in the Napa Valley and Central California. While working as a chef and restaurant manager, as well as managing in food retail, he developed a wide range of knowledge about the world of food and culinary arts.

Although vegetarian cuisine has been his focus, he never misses an opportunity to explore other areas. Continuing with that passion, Chef Cory now works with students to spark their interest and develop the skills needed to be successful in the amazing world of professional foodservice.

For registration and full course descriptions, visit ce.llu.edu and search “cooking,” or call 909.558.3500.

 

]]>
Thu, 31 Jul 2014 14:32:55 -0700
4264:17451 <![CDATA[LLUH in the news]]> Heather Reifsnyder Here are some of the places Loma Linda University Health has appeared online in the past few weeks.

School of Public Health alumna Pamela Luna, DrPH, MEd, talks about the public health threat of pornography in The BMJ (formerly called British Medical Journal). 

LLU Medical Center’s No. 1 ranking in the region by U.S. News & World Report made headlines in outlets including the Riverside Press-Enterprise, the Adventist Review, and the Bradenton (Florida) Herald.   

The local PBS outlet KVCR published a podcast about LLUH’s Vision 2020 initiative.

U.S. News & World Report interviewed Arlene Blix, DrPH, LLU School of Public Health alumna, in an article about managing the stress of caregivers.

LLUH research about the benefits of vegetarian diets was reported in Men’s Journal, the Portland (Maine) Press Herald, and Eco Salon.

Ever wondered if it’s ok to have a snack at bedtime? TIME interviewed Joan Sabaté, MD, DrPH, School of Public Health professor, on this question.

]]>
Thu, 31 Jul 2014 14:29:59 -0700
4264:17418 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- Building up]]> Heather Reifsnyder Last week’s question related to the July 15 Vision 2020 campaign public launch, during which it was announced that more than $______ million was given or pledged so far. The missing number was 149. The three random correct players are Howard Sulzle, Asher Himbing, and Marilyn R. Winters. Please e-mail pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

Vision 2020 will result in two new hospitals and a new building to house discovery, research, and the Wholeness Institute, along with other projects. 

Loma Linda University Health’s last major building project was the Centennial Complex. On what day and year was the grand opening held for the Centennial Complex? E-mail the right answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, July 29, for a chance to win. One answer per person, please.

]]>
Thu, 24 Jul 2014 15:05:01 -0700
4264:17416 <![CDATA[A new name for the Children's Center]]> The Loma Linda Children’s Center has a new name: The Loma Linda Academy Children’s Center. The announcement came on July 16 when the sign bearing the new name was revealed to cheers of the children and administration from both campuses. The center provides Christian care and education for children ages 3 months to 5 years old.

The Children’s Center opened in the late 1960s as a ministry of the Loma Linda University Church and utilized the church’s classrooms during the week. Although it had its own governing board under the direction of the church board, it also received additional leadership support from other institutions over the years including the Loma Linda University School of Public Health and the Southeastern California Conference of Seventh-day Adventists.

Loma Linda Academy officially welcomed the Children’s Center to complement its TK-12 grade college preparatory program as of July 1, 2014. “We assure you that we will continue to provide the same quality care that parents have come to appreciate,” says Doug Herrmann, headmaster of Loma Linda Academy. 

The center has seen over 6,000 children pass through its doors. With a convenient location, beautiful facility, 26 full-time staff, and licensing for up to 155 students, the Children’s Center often has a waiting list for enrollment.

“This transition has been so smooth that I can only see good things coming from it,” says parent Carol Berger.

Children’s Center Director Julie Majestic has worked at the Children’s Center for over 23 years. “Our relationship with Loma Linda Academy has been wonderful throughout the years, so when the opportunity arose to join forces, it seemed like a perfect fit.”

“We are so pleased that the Children’s Center is now a part of the Loma Linda Academy family,” says Herrmann. “Their tradition of excellent preschool care and instruction will be a strong addition to the academy program. We welcome the faculty, staff, students, and parents into the mission of Loma Linda Academy—to provide a Christ-like, nurturing environment to prepare students spiritually, academically, physically, and socially for higher education, life in a global society, and for eternity.”

]]>
Thu, 24 Jul 2014 14:53:38 -0700
4264:17410 <![CDATA[#V2020 photo contest winner announced]]> Heather Reifsnyder Congratulations to Emma and the urgent care team who participated in the Vision 2020 #selfie contest. Employees were asked to post selfies including the #V2020 hashtag. This is the winning shot—remind you of a famous painting

]]>
Thu, 24 Jul 2014 13:29:24 -0700
4264:17409 <![CDATA[LLUMC-Murrieta named 'Most Wired' by AHA]]> Kathryn Stiles Loma Linda University Medical Center-Murrieta has been named as one 375 hospitals in the nation to have achieved “Most Wired” status by the American Hospital Association (AHA). As technology and health care delivery become more intertwined, the AHA has created an annual survey and criteria for designating hospitals that participate in the survey. LLUMC-Murrieta, which opened in April 2011, is a fully electronic hospital in all departments and has achieved a level of integration that is in the top tier of hospitals across the country.

“What this means to our patients is significant,” states CEO Rick Rawson. “We have invested a great deal into our electronic medical record and working on improving work-flow, reducing hand-offs, and improving patient experience. Essentially, our employees can focus on delivering excellent clinical care.”

Hospitals that achieve this designation have accomplished specific benchmarks in the areas of infrastructure, business and administrative management, clinical quality and safety, and clinical integration. The survey was created in 1999 to recognize and encourage hospitals as they journey into more advanced IT solutions and integration. The survey will continue to set a high standard for hospitals that are striving to improve patient care through advanced technology. One other hospital in the Inland Empire also achieved this designation, Eisenhower Medical Center.

“It is gratifying that the hospital’s investment and focus on people, process, and technology is recognized by this Most Wired award,” says Doug Leeper, executive director of IT. “We will continue to improve and enhance our automation solutions to facilitate compassionate, effective, and high-quality health care for our community.”

The AHA is a nonprofit association of health care provider organizations and individuals who are committed to the health improvement of their communities. The AHA is the national advocate for its members, which include nearly 5,000 hospitals, health care systems, networks, and other providers of care. Founded in 1898, the AHA provides education for health care leaders and is a source of information on health care issues and trends. For more information, visit www.aha.org.

]]>
Thu, 24 Jul 2014 13:16:34 -0700
4264:17403 <![CDATA[All Star Appreciation a success ]]> Jiggs Gallagher and Briana Pastorino An estimated 2,500 Loma Linda University Health employees, students, volunteers, families and guests attended a game of the San Bernardino 66ers at San Manuel Stadium Monday evening, July 21.

It was Loma Linda University Health All Star Appreciation Day, and the 66ers hosted the Stockton Ports, who trounced the home team 11-4.

The picture-perfect evening began with Children’s Hospital pediatric GI nurse Samantha Stephenson singing the national anthem, and Mark Reeves, MD, director of the Cancer Center, threw out the ceremonial first pitch. Both were excellently “on pitch.”

Loma Linda was top-of-mind all evening, from the Children’s Hospital banner on the left outfield wall, to several LLUH Vision 2020 videos on the big screen during inning breaks. 

Senior Vice President for Advancement Rachelle Bussell and LLUMC Chief Executive Officer Kerry Heinrich were interviewed during the third inning break by Steve Wendt on Internet radio 66ers.com. They presented details about Vision 2020 and how it will impact the region, including the San Bernardino community.

Watching the sun set on the San Bernardino Mountains was a beautiful accompaniment to the fast-paced game. DJs in the sound booth kept up an eclectic stream of music between every pitch, from 70s classic rock to a German oompah band playing “Roll Out the Barrel,” the Israeli Hava Nagilah, and Tiny Tim’s falsetto lyrics with ukulele.

And what’s not to like about a roster of players with fun, interesting names like Anthony Bemboom and Exicardo Cayones?

Customer Care Center employee Hilda Valladolid won the Hawaii vacation package drawing during the eighth inning break. Other employees won a 70-inch TV, a Vita-Mix blender, a stainless-steel mixer and trips to Disneyland and Sea World, among others.

While one could perhaps shed a figurative tear for the beer concessionaires, whose sales must have taken a dip that night, it was a happy, celebratory event for members of the greater LLUH family as they enjoyed an evening of America’s Pastime.

]]>
Thu, 24 Jul 2014 13:01:15 -0700
4264:17400 <![CDATA[LLUMC recognized in U.S. News 'Best Hospitals 2015' guidebook]]> Herbert Atienza For the fifth consecutive year U.S. News & World Report has ranked Loma Linda University Medical Center (LLUMC) the Number 1 hospital in both Riverside and San Bernardino counties, and its urology program among the nation’s top 50.

“We are heartened to be recognized as the best hospital in the region for five years in a row,” says Kerry Heinrich, interim CEO of LLUMC, “and for our urology department to be ranked among the best in the United States.

“This recognition is a testament to the commitment, hard work, and caring of our doctors and staff to provide the best possible whole-person care for our patients, and upholds our mission of continuing the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ.”

LLUMC is also ranked 14th best in California, and, in addition to its urology department named among the best in the United States, is also recognized for 11 high performing specialties: cancer; cardiology and heart surgery; diabetes and endocrinology; ear, nose and throat; gastroenterology and GI surgery; geriatrics; gynecology; nephrology; neurology and neurosurgery; orthopedics; and pulmonology.

“We are pleased that this recognition reflects positively on the commitment of the urology department, and the institution as a whole, to delivering excellent, whole person, patient-centered care,” says Herbert Ruckle, MD, chair of the urology department. “Our department combines the delivery of comprehensive and cutting edge urology care with research and medical education. As a department we have grown to where we have urology faculty in all of the urology sub-specialties and are a valuable resource for the people in our region suffering from both simple and complex urologic disease.

“The focus of LLUMC and the department of urology on providing compassionate, evidence-based care and on healing the whole person is something we are proud of and is very appreciated by our patients.”

U.S. News evaluated hospitals in 16 adult specialties and ranked the top 50 in most of the specialties. Just 3 percent of the nearly 5,000 hospitals that were analyzed for Best Hospitals 2014-15 earned national ranking in even one specialty.

 “The data tell the story – a hospital that emerged from our analysis as one of the best has much to be proud of,” says Avery Comarow, U.S. News Health Rankings editor. “A Best Hospital has demonstrated its expertise in treating the most challenging patients.” 

U.S. News publishes Best Hospitals to help guide patients who need a high level of care because they face particularly difficult surgery, a challenging condition or extra risk because of age or multiple health problems. Objective measures such as patient survival and safety data, adequacy of nurse staffing levels, and other data largely determined the rankings in most specialties.

The rankings are available at http://health.usnews.com/best-hospitals and will appear in the U.S. News “Best Hospitals 2015” guidebook, available in August.

]]>
Thu, 24 Jul 2014 12:12:57 -0700
4264:17399 <![CDATA[Campus Street road closures]]> July 25 UPDATE: The closure has been delayed to a later undetermined date. Parking lots will be accessible as normal. 

****

Sections of Campus Street will be closed Tuesday, July 29, to install pre-cast beams for the soon-coming pedestrian bridge. The closures will be in effect from 4:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. for all vehicle traffic, including emergency vehicles. 

The street will be closed from the emergency department exit to the physicians parking lot G East.

As major delays are expected, please arrive early or find alternate routes during this time.

G East physicians lot will remain open with one-way traffic; flag persons will be present to assist traffic. The access will be from University Avenue only.

The West Hall parking structure entrance and exit will be closed at 8:30 a.m. through 4:00 p.m. During that time, please exit through the old structure using levels two and three.

To access the parking structures from Barton Road, please use the Violet Molnar Way detour and enter at the University Avenue entrance.

The Campus Street entrance to lot G (the older parking structure) will remain open at all times.

In order to park in the West Hall structure, one will need to enter the older parking structure (lot G) and proceed to levels two or three.

For more information, please contact parking and traffic services at 909-651-3025 or Parking@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 24 Jul 2014 12:11:33 -0700
4264:17317 <![CDATA[Photo gallery: Vision 2020 Revealed]]> Courtney Beckwith and RaeChelle English Recapture the events of Vision 2020 Revealed through this photo gallery.

]]>
Thu, 17 Jul 2014 14:36:42 -0700
4264:17288 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week-- The big figure]]> Heather Reifsnyder For those who didn’t make it to Vision 2020 Revealed on Tuesday, it was a special day that will be long remembered. Last week’s challenge was to estimate the number of people in attendance at the event. That number, according to the event planners, is believed to be about 2,000.

Sara Bates, Linda Ramos, and Michael Mitchell, you were the closest guessers. Please send an e-mail to pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

This week’s question is also related to Vision 2020. At the event Tuesday, administrators announced that more than $______ million has been given or pledged so far to the Vision 2020 campaign.

How many millions did they say? E-mail the correct answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, July 22, for a chance to be a random winner. 

]]>
Thu, 17 Jul 2014 12:52:39 -0700
4264:17285 <![CDATA[Vision 2020 Revealed with an announcement of a $100 million gift]]> Herbert Atienza Officials of Loma Linda University Health revealed details of Vision 2020, including the gift, believed to be the largest single-gift commitment to health care in the history of the Inland Empire, providing the cornerstone for the transformation of Loma Linda University Health.

By 2020, the following projects are expected to be completed:

  • A new, 100-bed Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital tower, connected via glass walkway with the existing Children’s Hospital, including expansion of the Loma Linda University Health Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs), already one of the largest in the country.
  • A new, 276-bed Adult Medical Center, including 96 intensive care beds and 180 medical-surgical beds.
  • A new, $60 million building to be a unique interdisciplinary hub for discovery, research, and the Wholeness Institute to improve health outcomes for people in the Inland Empire and beyond. 

”The world is asking what Loma Linda University Health and our people have to offer. Now is the time to be bold, to look toward what can be, and be daring, so it is with profound excitement that I have the privilege of revealing Vision 2020, a dream of a healthier, more whole world that has been in our hearts and minds for the past few years,” said Dr. Richard Hart, president of Loma Linda University Health.

Carol Troesh said the gift to Loma Linda University Health reflects her family’s support for the institution’s commitment to creating a health and education hub that will benefit people worldwide.

“Over the years, God has abundantly blessed our family, and it is our privilege and honor to give back to the community we have called home for most of our lives,” she said.

In the 1970s, Dennis Troesh founded Robertson’s Ready Mix, growing the company into one of the largest ready-mix and construction aggregate operations in the western United States. Writing under the name of C.A. Hartnell, Carol Troesh has authored four historical fiction books for children. In 2013, she received the Mom’s Choice Silver Award for excellence in family friendly media products and services. Both are active members and supporters of Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital Foundation Board.

In addition to developing the new buiding to house discovery, research, and the Wholeness Institute, the campaign will also make a major investment on education and research, including funding for more laboratories, programs, scientific research discoveries, scholarships, and faculty development. Vision 2020 will also help assure that all inpatient beds at the hospital meet state-mandated seismic and safety standards by 2020.

Apart from philanthropic gifts, such as the $100 million from Dennis and Carol Troesh, funding for Vision 2020 projects will come from federal, state, and local funds; fund raising efforts; and loans.

Vision 2020 is the largest initiative in the history of Loma Linda University Health, and represents the largest investment in health care in the region. The initiative builds on the institution’s core strengths of pursuing new discoveries, developing strategies for a healthier world, and building on foundations of education, research, clinical care, wholeness, and service.

“Vision 2020 is a campaign for a whole tomorrow, it is a catalyst that will bring together a vision for the future for the health of our community,” said Rachelle Bussell, senior vice president of advancement at Loma Linda University Health.

For over 100 years, Loma Linda University Health has played a leading and influential role in health care and education, graduating more than 45,000 health care professionals.

At present, more than 16,000 alumni are living and working in Southern California, two-thirds of whom are based in the Inland Empire. Loma Linda University Health has graduated more than 10,500 physicians, and, at present, half of the practicing medical doctors in San Bernardino County received their education or training at Loma Linda University Heath. A total of nearly 7,000 dental health professionals received their education at Loma Linda University Health.

Vision 2020 opens a new chapter in Loma Linda University Health’s history, allowing it to reach even greater achievements and heights in the future.

]]>
Thu, 17 Jul 2014 12:28:45 -0700
4264:17282 <![CDATA[Notes from the President]]> Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   July 2014
Vision 2020 Revealed

I have the overwhelming feeling that I have just witnessed one of the most momentous days in Loma Linda’s history. Without being melodramatic, this seems equivalent to the unexpected $5,000 check in 1905 that secured our original purchase of the Loma Linda property, or the consolidation of the campus at Loma Linda in 1967. While it’s never safe to predict history, I believe that July 15, 2014, will be remembered as one of those epochal transitions in this institution’s history, a true answer to prayer and acknowledgement of God’s leading.

With humble gratitude for the transformational nature of the gifts we announced on this day, we must continue to be mindful of our long-term ability to retain our mission, to keep our focus, and continue what Loma Linda has jealously guarded for over 100 years.

This day was anchored by an incredible gift from Dennis and Carol Troesh. Longtime friends and patrons of Loma Linda, the Troeshes’ gift of $100 million, spread over several years, will ensure our hopes for Vision 2020. Along with other key donors who have given or pledged an additional $49 million to date, it now seems our goal of raising $350 million toward our Campus Transformation has suddenly gone from the impossible dream to an achievable strategy. There is still a long way to go, but Dennis and Carol’s gift has singularly given this campus a confidence and momentum that is truly transformational.

It is incredibly humbling to sense the level of confidence in Loma Linda that encourages so many people to support our mission. They are donating their life savings, their vacations not taken, their houses not purchased, to our dreams for the future. They believe in Loma Linda’s destiny, in our ability to make a difference in this world. This is indeed truly humbling! On behalf of my fellow leaders at Loma Linda, and our entire campus, we are forever grateful and promise to take the mission and commitment of this place to an even higher level. With the Troeshes’ gift focused on health care, with a special interest in Children’s Hospital, other donors are also supporting our need for a new adult hospital, our student endowments, our new research building and discovery initiatives, expansion of our wholeness programs, and our commitment to the local and global community. We will now reach out to others to complete our campaign goals with visits and programs scheduled across the country.

The events of Tuesday morning will long be remembered by all those present. Below is a video of the highlights for those not able to be here in person. We were blessed by the presence of many government leaders and influential community members, as well as our own campus family, coming together to acknowledge and support this momentous transition in Loma Linda’s history. Both local and national press covered the event with interest.

As a lover of nature and all that it means and brings to our lives, there was a single act Tuesday morning that carried symbolic value for me. During the middle of the program, with speeches and videos in full swing, and over 2,000 listening under the canopies, a beautiful sight took place right in front of us all. A tiger swallowtail, one of God’s beautiful butterflies, gently floated onto the scene. He was attracted to the display of golden marigolds and purple petunias that surrounded our Vision 2020 letters just in front of the speaker’s platform. He gently flitted from flower to flower, oblivious to the crowd and commotion all around him. When he was finished, unaware of his magnificent beauty, he moved on across the campus. For this sentimental old guy, it was one more signal of God’s blessings on this campus and His hand guiding our daily lives and decisions.

A highlight reel of the Vision 2020 Revealed event, along with more information, is available at the Vision 2020 website: http://lluhvision2020.org/.

Finally, I am also delighted at this time to welcome Kerry Heinrich into our campus leadership as the Interim CEO of the Medical Center, effective July 1. Kerry has been one of our senior legal consultants for many years and brings a wealth of knowledge about current health care issues to our team. Kerry has picked up the leadership mantle from Ruthita Fike, and has made this transition as seamless as possible. The search committee is now working to find someone to fill this position on a permanent basis.

Cordially yours,

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President, Loma Linda University Health

You are receiving this e-mail because you are a faculty member, employee, graduate, student, or friend of Loma Linda University Health and you have provided your e-mail address to us. To unsubscribe from future e-mails sent by the president, please click here to unsubscribe. Any correspondence sent to president@llu.edu will be read and processed by a member of the office of public affairs.

Office of the President, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350

Copyright © 2014 by Loma Linda University

llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 17 Jul 2014 00:00:00 -0700
4264:17267 <![CDATA[Enter the Vision 2020 Employee #Selfie Challenge]]> Nancy Yuen The Vision 2020 Employee #Selfie Challenge is heating up!

There is still time to enter the Vision 2020 Employee #Selfie Challenge for your chance to win tickets to Disneyland.

For the first round of the contest, creativity is being judged. Employees may submit their entry by noon on Friday, July 18.

The Web Center team will choose the top three most creative photos and will post them on the LLUH Instagram page Monday, July 21. The winner will be chosen by the number of “likes” the pictures receive on the LLUH Instagram site by 11:59 p.m. Monday, July 21. The winner will be announced on Tuesday, July 22.

More than 115 creative, fun photos have been posted and this morning, there were more than 1,800 views from employees on the VIP page. Some entries cannot be viewed because the participants’ accounts have been set to private. Sadly, these entries will be disqualified if their settings are not changed to be public until the competition concludes.

To make sure an image qualifies, please review contest information and rules be at http://bit.ly/1jUkQy5. The prize is taxable.

]]>
Thu, 17 Jul 2014 11:51:39 -0700
4264:17265 <![CDATA[Experience the event: Vision 2020 highlight video]]> ]]> Thu, 17 Jul 2014 10:56:47 -0700 4264:17263 <![CDATA[Vision 2020 in the media ]]> RaeChelle English The media arrived in full force Tuesday morning to await the big Vision 2020 reveal. Twelve news outlets were in attendance, including six newspapers, four television stations, a magazine, and a radio station. Following the event, the media attended a press conference to ask Loma Linda University Health officials about the expansion plans and the $1.2 billion campaign.

Multiple outlets in the Inland Empire region extending throughout Southern California and surrounding states have picked up the news. So far, coverage includes a story in the Los Angeles Times and headline stories in newspapers such as The Desert Sun and The Press-Enterprise.

Check out the links to some of the stories below:

 

ADVENTIST REVIEW: Loma Linda University Health Unveils Record $1.2 Billion Expansion 

www.adventistreview.org/church-news/loma-linda-university-health-unveils-record-$1.2-billion-expansion

 

LA TIMES: Loma Linda University Health unveils $1.2-billion rebuilding plan

www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-loma-linda-university-health-unveils-12-billion-plan-for-its-future-20140715-story.html

 

SAN BERNARDINO SUN: Loma Linda University Health receives $100M donation for new hospital

www.sbsun.com/health/20140715/loma-linda-university-health-receives-100m-donation-for-new-hospital

 

THE (PALM SPRINGS) DESERT SUN: Loma Linda hospital announces grand expansion plans

www.desertsun.com/story/news/health/2014/07/15/loma-linda-hospital-announces-grand-expansion-plans/12710575/

 

THE (RIVERSIDE) PRESS-ENTERPRISE/ORANGE COUNTRY REGISTER: Loma Linda hospital announces grand expansion plans

www.ocregister.com/articles/hart-628995-care-million.html

 

KESQ/CBS 2: Couple donates $100M to Loma Linda University Health

www.kesq.com/news/couple-donates-100m-to-loma-linda-university-health/26969898

 

INLAND NEWS TODAY (RADIO): Loma Linda lands region's largest commitment to health care

www.inlandnewstoday.com/story.php?s=34070

 

PRWEB: $100 Million Gift from Dennis and Carol Troesh Jumpstarts Campaign to Open New Hospitals, Research Center at Loma Linda University Health by 2020 

www.prweb.com/releases/2014/07/prweb12021426.htm

]]>
Thu, 17 Jul 2014 10:36:44 -0700
4264:17211 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- Sleep tight]]> Heather Reifsnyder Life often seems better in the morning. As one person said, “The best bridge between despair and hope is a good night’s sleep.” – Businessman E. Joseph Cossman

Sleep is made better by creating the right bedroom atmosphere. The National Sleep Foundation has several recommendations about this.

• Make sure the room is dark. Light-blocking drapes or an eye mask may be in order.
• Decorate the bedroom in soothing colors.
• Maintain a tidy and uncluttered room.
• Choose a mattress and bedding that are comfortable.
• Do not watch TV, listen to the radio, or read in bed. Associate the bed with sleep.
• Keep the room cool.

Why is darkness important for sleeping? Light triggers a nerve pathway from the eye to brain regions that regulate body temperature, hormones, and other functions that affect feeling sleepy or awake, according to the foundation.

And why is sleep so important? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, insufficient sleep has been linked to chronic conditions including depression, obesity, diabetes, and diseases of the cardiovascular system.

And it’s good for the soul. “Sleep is the best meditation.”  – Dalai Lama

]]>
Thu, 10 Jul 2014 12:05:11 -0700
4264:17209 <![CDATA[Roundup: LLUH in the news]]> Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Health often appears in local, national, and international news. Here are links to a few stories from the past couple of weeks. 

Did you know an LLU alum was the personal physician to presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama? See these reports in the Orlando Business Journal.

http://www.bizjournals.com/orlando/blog/2014/07/3-questions-with-a-local-exec-who-used-to-be.html?sf3616056=1

An LLU student has helped develop an online database that catalogs and maps pterosaur fossil specimens. The pterosaur is an extinct flying vertebrate reptile. See the CBS News report.

http://www.cbsnews.com/news/google-earth-now-shows-where-ancient-pterosaurs-once-lived/?sf3603547=1

Science World Report published a report on LLUH’s research showing how vegetarian diets can both reduce greenhouse emissions and increase longevity.

http://www.scienceworldreport.com/articles/15750/20140630/a-vegetarian-diet-can-increase-longevity-help-reduce-greenhouse-emissions.htm?sf3515833=1

And, LLU School of Public Health published an article about this research in the Adventist Review.

http://www.adventistreview.org/church-news/for-want-of-a-t-bone-steak-the-biosphere-was-lost

Enjoy. 

]]>
Thu, 10 Jul 2014 11:59:57 -0700
4264:17207 <![CDATA[New outpatient pharmacy under construction]]> Heather Reifsnyder July 7, Loma Linda University Medical Center construction management services began prepping the site of a new outpatient pharmacy in the main lobby. This will replace the outpatient portion of the pharmacy on the second floor.

Demolition will begin next week after the site is enclosed by drywall. Interim life safety measures will be implemented during construction.

The project is scheduled for completion at the end of November 2014. Due to the construction, the hospital financial planner’s office will be closed and relocated to room 1140 of the medical center.

For more information, contact Leticia Gasca-Guerrero at lgascaguerrero@llu.edu or 909-253-5693.

]]>
Thu, 10 Jul 2014 11:54:09 -0700
4264:17206 <![CDATA[LA Clippers hoops program comes to campus]]> Nancy Yuen This morning dozens of young athletes ages 6 to 17 took turns participating in basketball drills while others watched intently from the sidelines of each of Drayson Center’s six half basketball courts.  They are participating in the Los Angeles Clippers Youth Hoops Program, July 7 to 10. It is the sixth year that Drayson Center is hosting the camp.

During the basketball camp sessions, participants are benefiting from fun, motivational instruction provided by the National Basketball Academy including stations, drills, skills contests, and live games. Each will receive an evaluation from his or her coach, and will meet Clippers guard Reggie Bullock.

After dropping off her 13-year-old son, Devin, Charryse Cooper stayed as long as she could to watch the drills. “It’s the first time Devin is participating in the camp,” she says. “He was so excited that I didn’t even have to wake him up this morning!” Cooper works for the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department.

During the camp, participants learned about health, nutrition, and activities that enhance wellness. Devin’s mom mentioned that he had learned about the importance of cutting back on sugar in his diet. She was surprised when he said he didn’t want to put sugar on his breakfast cereal this morning. “Sometimes,” she smiles, “it helps when kids hear about things that are healthy for them from people other than their parents. He saw the competition here and wanted to have an edge!”

A second Clippers Summer Basketball Camp, for elite players, will be held at Drayson Center July 21 to 24. Information, including registration form, is available at bit.ly/VPUe6s.

“It’s a great activity,” Cooper says. “The kids had four days of exercise and no television, and the nutrition workshops were wonderful.”

]]>
Thu, 10 Jul 2014 11:53:32 -0700
4264:17203 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- The crowds will go wild]]> Heather Reifsnyder On June 29, 1996, Loma Linda University Medical Center performed its first bone marrow transplant. The three random winners to correctly answer this question from last week are Gabriela Segovia, Jeanna M. Castillo, and Vanessa Perez; please e-mail pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

To answer today’s question, it will be best to be there in person for the reveal of Vision 2020 on Tuesday, July 15, at 10:00 a.m. on the campus mall (if it’s all right with your supervisor). Please estimate the crowd size and e-mail your guess to pr@llu.edu by noon Wednesday, July 16.

Good luck!

]]>
Thu, 10 Jul 2014 11:49:08 -0700
4264:17199 <![CDATA[Come to Vision 2020 this Tuesday]]> Jiggs Gallagher Vision 2020 will be an event that will change and shape the course of health care and education at Loma Linda University Health.  What will be unveiled here will be important to our future, and you will want to do everything in your power to be with us on the lawn at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, July 15. 

However, if your job requires you to be at your workstation at that hour, the administration still hopes you will be able to participate in real time.  The event will be televised on the Employee Channel (Channel 57), on all staff televisions, and the Campus Channel (Channel 99), which is seen on all patient, waiting room, and dormitory televisions. You're encouraged to use one of these options as you have the time to watch.   

Smart Life Style TV (a division of Advanced Media Communications) will also carry the program on two satellite channels (Galaxy 19 and Glorystar 122), which can be seen by 7 to 9 million households. Another 8.5 million households can watch it through their IPTV service.

]]>
Thu, 10 Jul 2014 11:44:14 -0700
4264:17158 <![CDATA[Happy 4th of July]]> Thu, 03 Jul 2014 12:27:49 -0700 4264:17156 <![CDATA[The big reveal: Vision 2020]]> For more than 100 years, we have been a global leader in health and wholeness, and now it is time to reveal our vision for the future—a vision that will redefine health care and set a new course for education at Loma Linda University Health.

Vision 2020 Revealed takes place Tuesday, July 15, at 10:00 a.m. on the campus mall.

Employees who clear it with their supervisor are invited to RSVP and attend.

“Don’t miss this event,” says Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health. “The impact will be strong here, but it will also be felt far beyond our own immediate borders, reaching the nation and the world.”

To RSVP, which is appreciated but not required, visit http://lluhvision2020.org/vision2020/index.page. Those unable to attend will be able to view the event live on this website.

]]>
Thu, 03 Jul 2014 12:23:41 -0700
4264:17152 <![CDATA[Update: pedestrian bridges]]> Heather Reifsnyder Construction is continuing on two campus bridges that will safely carry pedestrians over busy streets.

One bridge will carry pedestrians from the new parking garage across Campus Street to LLU Medical Center. Construction began in April and is scheduled to finish in mid-September. A roof canopy will be completed by mid-October.

In the latter half of July, Campus Street will be shut down for one day—probably a Sunday—to lay the precast concrete beams over the road, which will support a new 8-foot wide pedestrian walkway over Campus Street.

The bridge will proclaim the words “Loma Linda University Health” to passing cars.

Construction of the pedestrian bridge to the Centennial Complex is coupled with the lowering of Stewart Street to pass below it. These are scheduled for completion at the end of August. Crews are now working to grade the road, construct curbs, lay asphalt paving, stripe the streets, install site lighting and handrails, and put the finishing touches on the retaining walls. Solar panel-covered canopies will eventually be added to the pedestrian bridge.

The walls on either side of the street will bear LLU’s motto, “to make man whole,” in addition to a stylized globe. The bridge will say “Loma Linda University” with the seal of LLU on one side and the seal of the city of Loma Linda on the other.

Additional work will follow to extend the Centennial Pathway pavers over the bridge, landscape on both sides, and extend the sidewalks. 

]]>
Thu, 03 Jul 2014 12:19:55 -0700
4264:17150 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- Transplants]]> Heather Reifsnyder Last week we asked which of the eight schools at Loma Linda University passed the milestone of graduating its 500th student. The answer, as correctly identified by random winners Jerry Rivinius, Jordan Urban, and Maggie Luva, is the School of Pharmacy. Winners, please e-mail pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

Jennifer Pak was the 500th graduate, and she is pictured above with Billy Hughes, PhD, dean, School of Pharmacy, and her husband, Daniel, the 501st graduate. Counting the rest of the class of 2014, total graduates from the School of Pharmacy now equal 520.

The anniversary of another milestone—this one a clinical procedure—took place June 29. The year was 1996, and Loma Linda University Medical Center’s first transplant of a certain type of tissue took place. What type of transplant was that?

E-mail the answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, July 8, for a chance to win.

 

Did you know?

Did you know that surveys of employee turnover across many disciplines at hospitals in the United States average about 11 percent? While turnover is a result of many causes (spouse moving to another city, worker wants to pursue further education, birth of a child, etc.), it can also be caused by dissatisfaction with the job or the employer. It's interesting to compare the national rate of 11 percent with Loma Linda University Health's average turnover in the past several years of 7 percent.  

 

]]>
Thu, 03 Jul 2014 12:15:50 -0700
4264:17148 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- Healthy picnics]]> Heather Reifsnyder Picnics with friends and loved ones are a summer tradition for many people and an excellent way to Live It. But make your picnic fare healthy. The LLUH Living Whole employee wellness program offers a number of picnic-friendly recipes, such as the following ones.

Salads and sides
• Instead of potato and corn chips, try baked kale chips or sweet potato thins.
• For a healthy version of cole slaw, make Asian pear & cashew slaw or the broccoli slaw.
• Want to jazz up a fruit salad? Try the balsamic glazed or minted honey-lime recipes.
• For a new spin on side salads, consider the black bean & corn salad, or the Asian tofu salad, or the country pear & celery salad.

Planning to grill?
Try the recipes for grilled tofu, grilled cherry tomatoes, grilled garlic asparagus, or grilled stuffed eggplant.

Sandwich style
The choices are many, such as the hummus veggie sandwich, pumpkin peanut butter sandwich, or the avocado & white bean wrap.

Rather than soda …
Mix up some citrus rush or a carrot cocktail.

For dessert
Consider a healthy apple crisp, vegan chocolate pudding, or chewy ginger cookies.

And remember:
Warm weather presents more risk for food-borne illness when picnicking or grilling. Read food safety tips from the Food and Drug Administration at http://www.fda.gov/food/resourcesforyou/consumers/ucm109899.htm.

The recipes mentioned above and many more are viewable from a campus computer at http://vip.mc.llumc.edu/vip/Employee-Services/Service-Areas/Employee-Wellness-Program/Living-Whole-Programs/Campus-wide-Programs/A-Recipe-for-Success.page.

Live It!

]]>
Thu, 03 Jul 2014 12:12:14 -0700
4264:17042 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- Summer sips]]> Heather Reifsnyder With temps soon to reach why-do-I-live-here levels, it is important to remember that it’s hard to get out there and Live It when one is sapped like a wilted plant by dehydration.

Water keeps the body healthy in the following ways, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

• Keeps body temperature normal
• Lubricates and cushions joints
• Protects the spinal cord and other sensitive tissues
• Rids the body of waste 

In hot climates like Loma Linda—and when one is more physically active—like in summer—people may need extra water to keep going at optimum levels.

The CDC recommends drinking fluids during activity as well as having several glasses after the activity is finished. More tips from the CDC:

• Carry a water bottle. To beat the heat, freeze water in freezer-safe bottles and enjoy sipping ice-cold refreshment all the day long.
• Go for water instead of sugar-sweetened beverages. This saves calories, too—about 240 when chosen over a 20-ounce sugar-sweetened.
• Choose water when eating out to save money and stay slim.
• Add pizzazz to water with a wedge of lime or lemon* to make it enjoyable, and sip more than usual.

 

*Or sprigs of mint, slices of cucumber, your favorite berries … Get creative!

]]>
Thu, 26 Jun 2014 12:21:08 -0700
4264:17038 <![CDATA[Coming up: All Star Appreciation]]> Thu, 26 Jun 2014 12:17:48 -0700 4264:17035 <![CDATA[Lengthen your life, save the earth]]> Herbert Atienza Consuming a plant-based diet results in a more sustainable environment and reduces greenhouse gas emissions while improving longevity, according to new research from Loma Linda University Health.

A study and an article, produced by researchers at Loma Linda University School of Public Health, will be published in full in the July issue of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, and were first presented at the 6th International Congress on Vegetarian Nutrition in 2013.

Based on findings that identified food systems as a significant contributor to global warming, the study focuses on the dietary patterns of vegetarians, semi-vegetarians, and non-vegetarians to quantify and compare greenhouse gas emissions, as well as to assess total mortality.

The mortality rate for non-vegetarians was almost 20 percent higher than that for vegetarians and semi-vegetarians. On top of lower mortality rates, switching from non-vegetarian diets to vegetarian diets or even semi-vegetarian diets also helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The vegetarian diets resulted in almost a third fewer emissions compared to the non-vegetarian diets. Modifying the consumption of animal-based foods can therefore be a feasible and effective tool for climate change mitigation and public health improvements, the study concluded.

"The takeaway message is that relatively small reductions in the consumption of animal products result in non-trivial environmental benefits and health benefits," says Sam Soret, PhD, MPH, associate dean at Loma Linda University School of Public Health and co-author of the studies.

The study drew data from the Adventist Health Study, which is a large-scale study of the nutritional habits and practices of more than 96,000 Seventh-day Adventists throughout the United States and Canada. The study population is multi-ethnic and geographically diverse.

"The study sample is heterogeneous and our data is rich. We analyzed more than 73,000 participants. The level of detail we have on food consumption and health outcomes at the individual level makes these findings unprecedented,” Soret says. 

The analysis is the first of its kind to use a large, living population, since previous studies relating dietary patterns to greenhouse gas emissions and health effects relied on simulated data or relatively small populations to find similar conclusions.

"To our knowledge no studies have yet used a single non-simulated data set to independently assess the climate change mitigation potential and actual health outcomes for the same dietary patterns," says Joan Sabaté, MD, DrPH, nutrition professor at Loma Linda University School of Public Health and co-author of the studies.

The accompanying article makes the case for returning to a large-scale practice of plant-based diets, in light of the substantial and detrimental environmental impacts caused by the current trend of eating diets rich in animal products. Making a switch to plant-based foods will increase food security and sustainability, thereby avoiding otherwise disastrous consequences.

Both papers demonstrate that the production of food for human consumption causes significant emissions of greenhouse gases and compare the environmental impacts of producing foods consumed by vegetarians and non-vegetarians.

Sabaté notes that the results emphasize the need to reassess people's nutritional practices in light of environmental challenges and worldwide population growth.

"Throughout history, forced either by necessity or choice, large segments of the world's population have thrived on plant-based diets,” Sabaté says.

The School of Public Health at Loma Linda University has a keen interest in studying environmental nutrition and has had a dedicated postdoctoral program for the last six years and a clearly defined research program, funded by the McLean Endowment.

The publications may be viewed by clicking on these links:

http://ajcn.nutrition.org/content/early/2014/06/04/ajcn.113.071589.short

http://ajcn.nutrition.org/content/early/2014/06/04/ajcn.113.071522.short

 

]]>
Thu, 26 Jun 2014 12:13:51 -0700
4264:17033 <![CDATA[Due tomorrow: required survey]]> Heather Reifsnyder Each year, the South Coast Air Quality Management District requires Loma Linda University Health employees to fill out a mandatory survey reporting their travel method to work.

Employees must complete this requirement by midnight Friday, June 27.

The survey takes just moments and can be accessed here: https://www.ridematch.info/rp/ridepro3employerinterface.asp?rp3Action=ClientCollection&C=D&SummaryId=18058&CompanyCode=104601&FD=True&AD=0&Config=1

For further information, please e-mail Patricia Ibarra or Julie Mandy, or call extension 53033.   

]]>
Thu, 26 Jun 2014 12:11:10 -0700
4264:17030 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- Graduates part 2]]> Heather Reifsnyder Joy Krause, Nellie Killion, and Rosanna Landeros—you are three excellent guesstimaters. These three women guessed closest to the true number of 2014 graduates from Loma Linda University. That number, according to the May board vote approving the conferring of degrees, was 1,500. 

Winners, please e-mail pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

Today we have another graduation-related question: Which of Loma Linda University’s eight schools conferred a degree to its 500th graduate this year?

E-mail the answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, July 1, for a chance to win.

]]>
Thu, 26 Jun 2014 12:08:05 -0700
4264:17026 <![CDATA[EXSEED provides inspiration for math and science educators]]> Nancy Yuen and Briana Pastorino This week’s EXSEED conference is providing inspiration and tools to math and science teachers.

On Monday, June 23, Charles F. McMillan, PhD, nuclear physicist and director, Los Alamos National Laboratory, challenged K-12 educators attending Loma Linda University Health’s fourth annual EXSEED Conference (June 23-27).

 “The brightest minds in the country work at Los Alamos National Laboratory,” he said. “As science and math teachers you play an incredible role in the future of our country. Every year Los Alamos needs 100 to 200 PhDs. To help meet this need I challenge each of you, during your career, to produce two students who will go on to earn a PhD.” McMillan also provided ideas about how to engage parents and students in mastering science and math courses.

Monday’s second keynote was presented by Richard Osborn, PhD, vice president of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). After sharing the story of his journey as an educator, Osborn highlighted the changing ecology of education including the role of faculty (teaching, research and course design) as well as highlighting innovation and the new settings in which education is taking place.

On Tuesday and Wednesday, participants were immersed in workshops including  iPad integration in the mathematics classroom; studying sound and light; physics and medicine; 3-D printing in the classroom; high school robotics and Lego robotics. The sessions provided information and ideas for creative projects that can be implemented in the classroom.

Research has shown that if children haven’t developed a firm foundation in math and science as early as the fifth grade, their ability to be successful in these areas in high school and college becomes limited. This will hinder their ability to pursue fields including medicine and dentistry. EXSEED was envisioned by Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH, president, LLU, as a way for LLU and Adventist higher education to partner with K-12 science educators. EXSEED has expanded to include technology, engineering and math.

Adventist educators from across the North American Division (U.S. and Canada) and teachers from San Bernardino City Unified School District and Rialto and Redlands Unified School Districts are attending EXSEED. Educators are also traveling from Jamaica, Curacao and Bonaire to attend the conference.

Marilyn Eggers, PhD, and LLU provost Ron Carter, PhD, co-executive directors of EXSEED, have worked to grow the event beyond the original vision. In 2013 Doug Havens, MS, EXSEED director, was hired full-time to help with expanding needs and opportunities. LLU significantly funds EXSEED along with some major grants making it accessible for educators at every level to participate.

“EXSEED is part of our educational strategy to develop both minds and characters that are essential for producing quality health professionals,” Hart said. “By working together, we strive to support and empower educators in teaching the STEM disciplines with a mission-focused learning context.”

Six Adventist colleges and universities are currently EXSEED partners with Loma Linda University: Andrews University, Kettering College, La Sierra University, Pacific Union College, Union College, and Walla Walla University. More are getting ready to participate and all are invited.

]]>
Thu, 26 Jun 2014 11:53:12 -0700
4264:16876 <![CDATA[June commencement in photos]]> Following May 25’s graduation ceremonies for the Schools of Dentistry, Medicine, and Pharmacy, the remaining five schools at Loma Linda University hosted commencement on June 15: Allied Health Professions, Behavioral Health, Nursing, Public Health, and Religion.

For complete coverage of the 2014 graduation season, please see the June issue of LLUH TODAY next week. To see prior News of the Week coverage of the May 25 graduations, read here.

Think you know how many graduates were granted degrees this year? Head on over to this week’s trivia question.

Speakers, June 15

Kathryn Icenhower, MSW, spoke to graduates of the schools of Behavioral Health and Religion.

Terry Swenson, DMin, MDiv, chaplain for Loma Linda University, addressed School of Nursing graduates.

Donna Peterson, ScD, MHS, dean and professor of global health, College of Public Health, University of South Florida, delivered the graduation address to the School of Public Health.

Dora Borilla, DrPH, MPH, assistant vice president for strategy and innovation, and associate director of the Institute for Health Policy and Leadership, LLUH, spoke with graduates of the physical therapy program, then with the remaining graduates at a second ceremony for the School of Allied Health Professions.

LLU honorees, June 15

Loma Linda University honored several individuals during the June 15 ceremonies.

Allan Handysides, MBChB, who recently retired after 15 years as health ministries director of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, headquartered in Silver Spring, Maryland, was granted the Doctor of Humanitarian Services during the second School of Allied Health Professions graduation ceremony. Handysides served as a Board of Trustees member for LLUH during the same time period. He is presently involved in creating and teaching several modules of the MS in health professional leadership in the School of Allied Health Professions.

Arthur Kroetz, PhD, MA, assistant dean for educational support services and associate professor of radiation technology, School of Allied Health Professions, received the University Distinguished Service Award during that school’s commencement. Kroetz has taken a lead role in helping to integrate digital technologies into classrooms at Loma Linda University, as well as educating faculty and staff on how to best use them.

Janet Kroetz, MN, chief patient care director for Loma Linda University Medical Center East Campus Hospital as well as LLU Heart & Surgical Hospital, was presented the University Distinguished Service Award during School of Nursing commencement. Kroetz is also an assistant professor of nursing and currently serves as interim chief patient care director for Loma Linda University Medical Center. Kroetz is working with the School of Nursing to develop a post-baccalaureate certificate program in nursing administration. She is married to Arthur Kroetz, and they represent a rare instance in which a husband and wife are co-awardees in the same year.

Janelle Pyke, MA, assistant professor of general studies and special assistant to the provost for academic administration, Loma Linda University, received the University Distinguished Service Award during the School of Public Health commencement. For 20 years, Pyke served as director of university records, leading the transition from paper to digital for her department. In 2010, she joined the LLU office of the provost and currently focuses on policy development and management, curriculum review, and international programs.

School honorees, June 15

Individual schools also honored people on the 15th. They included the following.

Delia Lang, PhD, MPH, MA, research associate professor and program director, department of behavioral science and health education, Rollins School of Public Health at Emory University, Atlanta, was named LLU School of Behavioral Health Alumna of the Year.

The late Peter Strutz, PhD, MA, former chair and professor of psychology, LLU School of Behavioral Health, was posthumously granted the LLUSBH School Distinguished Service Award. His daughter, Judith Strutz-Vanderwerff, DDS, MSEd, was on hand to receive the award on his behalf during the combined School of Behavioral Health and School of Religion commencement ceremony.

Angela Shen, ScD, MPH (LLU School of Public Health, 1997), senior advisor for vaccines and immunizations, maternal and child health division, U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), Washington, D.C., was named School Alumna of the Year for the LLU School of Public Health.

Jayakaran Job, MD, DrPH, professor of global health, biostatistics/epidemiology, and population medicine, LLU School of Public Health, and professor of preventive medicine, LLU School of Medicine, was bestowed with the Faculty Distinguished Service Award during the School of Public Health commencement. 

Julie Pifer, coordinator for the office of academic programs, LLU School of Public Health, received the Staff Distinguished Service Award during the school’s commencement.

Ehren Ngo, MS, associate chair and assistant professor of cardiopulmonary sciences, and program director for the BS in emergency medical care program, LLU School of Allied Health Professions, was named Faculty of the Year for the school.

Benjamin Siapco, MS, laboratory technical consultant for Adventist Health International, received the School Distinguished Service Award during School of Allied Health Professions commencement. Siapco retired from Loma Linda University Medical Center in 2012.

Willa Hilgert Hedrick, MA, was named LLUSAHP School Alumna of the Year. Hedrick and her husband worked in mission service in the Philippines before returning to the U.S., where she served at Kettering Medical College, Dayton, Ohio, and distinguished herself in research while there.

 

]]>
Thu, 19 Jun 2014 16:20:57 -0700
4264:16874 <![CDATA[June disaster drill: what you need to know]]> Briana Pastorino The next campus-wide disaster drill will take place on Wednesday, June 25, beginning around 9:00 a.m., and will involve a power outage.

Before moaning and groaning in anticipation of countless text, e-mail, and phone notifications, consider this: If the power goes out in your office or unit, access to a computer, patient records, and even landlines may be impossible—they all require electricity. This means no Internet, e-mail, or voicemail. The only exception would be a computer or phone plugged into an outlet connected to a functioning backup generator, or a smartphone with wireless capabilities.

It is because of these unknowns that we drill and practice these scenarios—so everyone will get an idea of how to react and function in an emergency.

So, how will you be in the know in the event of an emergency? Here is what we are recommending:

1. Check the intranet: In the event of ANY emergency, if your computer has power, always check VIP first. If it is already open on your desktop, be sure to refresh it so that the most recent content is displayed.

2. Check LLUH social media: In the event of a power outage, your computer will only work if the power source is connected to a backup generator, but you can access social media on your smartphone if you have a wireless connection. If you don’t already, follow @LLUHealth on Twitter and on Facebook. The emergency management team will post updates as available on these sites.

3. Call the emergency hotline: Did you know LLUH has an emergency hotline that can be accessed on or off campus? The most updated information will be available pre-recorded by calling (909) 558-7979 or ext. 87979 during an emergency or drill. Save this number—you never know when you may need it.

4. Send Word Now: The current campus notification system is Send Word Now. The preferred emergency contact information that you provided to LLUH is populated into this system. We will notify you in the event of an emergency or drill as information is available via e-mail, voice, or text/pager. To update or change your information, you can do so in People Portal. Click on “personal information” on the left side bar to update your personal contact information.

The LLUH phone system is connected to backup power and will be a primary means of communication in the event of a power outage.

Additional questions regarding drill communication can be directed to Briana Pastorino in the public relations office at 558-8357 or ext. 88357.

 

]]>
Thu, 19 Jun 2014 15:36:09 -0700
4264:16868 <![CDATA[Farewell reception celebrates Ruthita Fike]]> James Ponder An estimated 200 to 250 physicians, employees, and administrators of Loma Linda University Health crowded into the Slate-Peterson rooms of the Coleman Pavilion on Wednesday, June 18, to say farewell to Ruthita J. Fike, MA, the charismatic and transformational CEO of Loma Linda University Medical Center since 2004.

There was a long line of people waiting to speak with Fike, share memories, and offer their best wishes for the future. To call the event emotional would be a powerful understatement.  

Several individuals choked up as Fike was applauded for the depth of her commitment and the strength of the personal relationships she established. When she took the podium herself, she broke into tears, telling members of the audience how much she loved them, how talented, intelligent, and committed they are, and what a life-changing experience it has been to work with each of them for the past 10 years.

On balance, however, the event was far more joyous than sorrowful. In recalling his reaction when Fike invited him to serve as vice president of mission and culture at the Medical Center, Gerald. R. Winslow, PhD, evoked laughter when he said, “I told her I had been to the opera and that’s culture.”

Jill Pollock, MS, interim administrator at University Hospital, presented Fike a large trophy with an abstracted image of hands lifted up, called her “a truly inspirational leader,” and reminisced about working together on numerous projects.

Steve Mohr, CFO of LLUMC-Murrieta, said his affiliation with Fike had been responsible for his wanting to get up and go to work every day—“well, most every day,” he joked—and promised to fly out and spend time with Fike and her husband, Duane, at their home in Colorado.

Lyndon Edwards, MBA, MHS, vice president and administrator at LLU Medical Center East Campus and LLU Heart and Surgical Hospital, called his first impressions of Fike “love at first sight,” to which she immediately responded, “Same here!” He gave her a PossAbilities jacket to wear when the weather turns cold in Colorado.

Jesse Mock, MA, vice president for patient engagement, spoke about the transformational elements in Fike’s leadership, and recalled many of her accomplishments in inspiring members of the staff to work toward the goal of helping the Medical Center fulfill its mission in the community.

Richard Rawson, MBA, senior vice president for strategic planning, and administrator of LLUMC-Murrieta, elaborated on Fike’s leadership in reaching out to the community. He called her a transformative and spiritual leader whose actions let it be known that God is guiding Loma Linda.

At the end of their brief presentations, each of the speakers received a warm hug from Fike. The depth of her appreciation for each of them was apparent. 

Fike says that for the immediate future, she has promised her husband she will spend some time unwinding at their Colorado home, and then she will begin the process of discovering where God wants her to go next.

“I am so grateful for the 10 years I have been a part of the Loma Linda family,” she concluded. “I leave you in God’s care.”

 

]]>
Thu, 19 Jun 2014 15:15:21 -0700
4264:16865 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- Grads ]]> Heather Reifsnyder Last week’s query was this: Which institute’s opening at LLU Medical Center was reported in the inaugural issue of LLUH TODAY in April 1988? The answer is the Loma Linda University International Heart Institute. The three randomly chosen readers in the know are Anuradha Diekmann, Melorie Pina, and Ruthanne Webster. Please e-mail pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

Over the past few weeks, Loma Linda University’s eight schools celebrated commencement and sent their new graduates into the world to do good. How many graduates were there? The closest three guesstimaters to the true number will win. E-mail the answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, June 24, for a chance for that to be you.

]]>
Thu, 19 Jun 2014 14:38:29 -0700
4264:16860 <![CDATA[Vision 2020 Revealed]]> Dear members of the Loma Linda University Health family:

Something monumental will happen Tuesday, July 15. And I’m personally inviting you to attend this historic event on the campus lawn, beginning at 10 a.m.

Don’t miss the event that begins the transformation of health and education for millions of Southern Californians. The impact will be strong here, but it will also be felt far beyond our own immediate borders, reaching the nation and the world.

A healthier, whole tomorrow starts July 15 at 10 a.m. You will not want to miss this momentous event. 

Thank you for all you do each and every day. Without you we could never accomplish our mission of continuing the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ. And now, I’m counting on you to be part of the future as we redefine health through education, research, wellness and clinical care.

Visit lluhvision2020.org for more information. We want to include the entire LLUH family, including those who work at facilities removed from the main campus. If you can, please use the shuttle service to come join the festivities.

Be there. Tomorrow starts July 15.

 

Very truly yours,

Richard H. Hart
President, Loma Linda University Health

]]>
Thu, 19 Jun 2014 13:59:08 -0700
4264:16856 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- Poolside fun]]> Nancy Yuen Summertime has arrived and with it there are plenty of opportunities for fun at the beach or pool. There are many fun memories to be made!

In order to keep children safe, always supervise them while they are in and around water. Many people don’t know that drowning is not like it is often portrayed on TV. There may be no splashing or calls for help -- drowning is a silent killer. If you notice a child is missing from a family gathering and there is water nearby, don’t look inside the house, immediately check the pool and/or spa.

To help protect family members, make sure children take swimming lessons when they are ready, usually after age 4. Summertime is a great time to begin. Check with the local department of parks and recreation or Red Cross chapter to find a certified instructor, and look for classes that include emergency water survival training.

Whether it occurs in a bathtub, a pool, or any body of water, drowning is the second leading cause of death for children under the age of 14. When a child is under water and can’t breathe, oxygen stores in the body begin to deplete. When the body’s oxygen reserves fall below the critical level, the heart loses its ability to beat. After being starved of oxygen for as few as 10 minutes, lungs and other organs are damaged. This is followed by brain damage.

Following are some guidelines about children and water safety, provided by LLUCH Safe Kids. 

  • Stay where you can see, hear, and reach children in water. Avoid talking on the phone, preparing a meal, reading, and other distractions.
  • Children should swim only in designated and supervised swimming areas.
  • Teach children never to swim alone.
  • Use barriers to keep kids away from water when you're not around.
  • Never prop open the gate to a pool barrier. Don't leave toys that could attract children in or around a pool.
  • Empty buckets, wading pools, and other containers immediately after use, and store upside down and out of reach.

Pool drains are an often-overlooked drowning hazard.

  • Teach children never to go near a pool drain, with or without a cover, and to pin up long hair when in water.
  • Know where the manual cut-off switch for the pump is in case of emergency. Consider installing an approved safety vacuum release system (SVRS), a tool that quickly and automatically turns off the pump (and stops the suction) when something is trapped in or blocks the drain.
  • Use life jackets and other safety gear, but know that any child can get in trouble in the water, even if he is wearing a life jacket or has taken swimming lessons.
  • Always wear U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation devices (PFD) while on boats, in or near open bodies of water, or participating in water sports. A PFD should fit snugly and not allow the child's chin or ears to slip through the neck opening.
  • Air-filled swimming aids, such as water wings and inner tubes, are not safety devices and should never be substituted for PFDs.
  • Learn CPR and keep rescue equipment (like a lifesaving ring), a telephone and emergency phone numbers poolside.
  • Everyone should know the water safety rules.
  • Forty-four states have laws that require children to wear PFD's while participating in recreational boating, The U.S. Coast Guard has also issued a rule requiring children under 13 to wear PFDs on board recreational vessels on Coast Guard waters. The rule applies to states without PFD laws. Recreational boats must carry one properly sized, U.S. Coast Guard-approved PFD that is accessible and in good condition for each person on board.
  • Teach kids the safe way to help someone in trouble in the water: call for help and throw the person something that floats.
  • Don't let children dive into water less than nine feet deep, and no one should dive into a river, lake, or ocean.
  • Children ages 16 and under should never operate personal watercraft.

The water safety entry on the Safe Kids’ web page is available here.

 

]]>
Thu, 19 Jun 2014 13:53:20 -0700
4264:16852 <![CDATA[Update: Staff honored at Employee Recognition Banquets ]]> News of the Week and have been added here.]]> The first week of June, Loma Linda University Health held its annual Employee Recognition Banquets honoring those who have served at the organization for milestone anniversaries of five or more years.

Loma Linda University

5 years

Sherrylynn Albano
Kristina Barding
Dwight Barrett
Larysa O. Baydala
Krystal Boyce
Kristin C. Carter
Marcus Chapman
Herminia Coria
Brian Distelberg
Higgins Dolmers
Mayra Dominguez
Valeri Filippov
Maria Filippova
Dipali Goyal
Ravi Goyal
Patrice Hart
Lei Huang
Dominick Jones
Mary Kearns
Jeong Suk Kim
Frank Krivec
Molly Kurth
Irma Lozada
Cindy Maccubbin
Tina Malmberg
Iris Mamier
Nurhaeny Manroe
Briana Maynor
Daphne McNeill
Daniel Morales
Barbara L. Ninan
Keiji Oda
Jisoo Oh
Daryl Osborne
Paulus Panggabean
Judy Paw
Theodore Peckham
Cecia Peraza
Nancy Peterson
James Pinder
David Pulido
Brittnee Quintanar
Dwight D. Rice
Carlos Rodriguez Urrutia
Elvia Sandoval
Gurmeet K. Sehgal
Gina S. Siapco
Ryan G. Sinclair
Scott C. Smith
Sandra Soria
Tania L. Stewart
Shanalee G. Tamares
Monica Tovar
James R. Trott
David Weldon
Cynthia Wicker
Brian Yap
Xiao-Bing Zhang

10 years

Marcia Blount
Barbara Bourgeois
Brenda L. Boyd
Bruce Bradley
Dilys Brooks
Venice Brown
Cynthia Cassem
Jack Chen
Branden Davault
Willie Davis
Daniel Dunn
Bess Getman
Sonja Hall
Mary Haulk
Ruben Hernandez
Sigrid James
James Keller
Kathryn Knecht
Doris Kore
Stephanie Larsen
Steven Larsen
Maria Leon
Sheila Luistro
Mark Mattheson
Adrian Mobilia
Dorian Montesinos
Jonathan Neidigh
Maria Ochoa
Jason E. Owen
Virginia Palma
Nancie Parmenter
Sharon Pavlovich
Daniel Perez
Darrell Petersen
Alice Roberts
Debra Ross
Sabam Sagala
Marisela Sanchez
Megan Schatzschneider
Brent Shakespeare
Brian Sharp
Emma Sigue
Mehul S. Sonawala
Jiping Tang
Heather J. Thomas
Stephen Vodhanel
Brenten Walker
Nathan Wall
Seth Wiafe

15 years

Vivian Arredondo
Melinda Bathan
Denise Bellinger
Cynthia Briceno
M. Michelle Buckman
Shin-Tai Chen
Mark Estey
Robin Fierro-Navarro
Ronald Forde
Curtis Fox
Gift Havert
Xaiohui Huang
Michelle Hurlbutt
Edwin Hutagalung
Gabriella Kunze
Wen-Guang Li
Dolores Magana
Marisela Mendez
Cindy Messer
Cynthia Meyer
Robin Mossiah
Esther Musalim
Ehren Ngo
Kevin Nick
Michelle Ojeda
Neil Palec
Lydia Partida
Cynthia A. Paulo
David Rodriguez
Desmond Stacey
Robert Tyo
R. Bruce Walter
Sandra Wright

20 years

Sandra Ballinger
Joanne Bonson
Luis Calvillo
D. Darlene Cheek
Armando Coronado-Jaramillo
Alva Driggers-Srour
Sandra Duran
Rita Galvan
Paul Haerich
Gordon E. Hewes
Juanita Ibanez
Miroljub Ilich
G. Jackson
Edwin Jones
Stephen Michel
Teresa Montgomery
Garfield Olton
Judith Palladino
Dawn Perry
Reuben Quijano
Gabriel Ramirez
Johnny Ramirez
Susan Roche
Abimael Sanchez-Martinez
Verdell Schaefer

25 years

June Barrientos
Shannon Bragg
Patrick Bush
Gary Fisher
Rosalyn Hamilton
Kenneth Hendricks
Mark Johnson
Gloria Martinez
Robert Moisescu
Christine Molinaro
George Petti
Jeana Raye
Karen Schiller
Ruly Siahaan
Gustavo Sosa Perez
Barbara Tatarchuk
Tony Valenzuela
Debra Warmouth
Sandra Webb

30 years

Marvalee Hoffman
Jana Neilsen
Lysenia Quijano
Susan Richards
Robert Schaefer
Ardis Wazdatskey
Carol Weismeyer

35 years

Raydolfo Aprecio
Rebekah Bartos
Marianne Bossert
Ian Chand
Marie Delange
Carlene Drake
Floyd Ferguson
Gary E. Fraser
Nellie Greene
Mary Hartwell
Sharon Lane
Kathleen L. Moore
Jeanne Newbold
Charles Pakpahan
Judith Rynearson

40 years

Kenneth Ashcroft
Georgia Hodgkin
Nellie Killion
Arthur Kroetz
David Larson
Jacqueline Myers
Pedro Nava
Judith Peters
Gloria Ramirez
Lynn Gay Wilkemeyer

45 years

Edward Ashley
Leonard Brand
Audrey Howard
Gordon Power
Howard Sulzle
Grenith Zimmerman

LLU Behavioral Medicine Center

5 years

Diane Brantmeyer
Adrian Delgado
Michelle Dix
Phillip Fokas
Kristi Gober
Doloris Mitchell
Tukia Vakalahi
Jennifer Weniger

10 years

Kelley Lamb
Anni Matlock
JoLynn Musicant
Tjitji Setiadi
Kimberly Sheer
Heather Ulrich
Sylvia Villegas

15 years

Annamarie Dugaduga
Mark Ghosh
Annette Winkler

20 years

Lucy Brooks
Carla Wierenga
Andrew Wildasinn
Joel Zahid

LLU Health Care

5 years

Kristina Abarca
Andretti Allen
Stephanie Amador
Barbara Antoine
Zulema Armijo
Ana Avila
Brianne Barr
Emilia Barton
David Calder
Keosha Campbell
Linda Carter
Daniela Castro
Margaret Cates
Dietra Celestine
Lydia Cervantes
Erica Corrales
Stacy Denis
Alexandra Dominguez
Pamela Dumas
Carrol Emery
Liliana Estrada
Miguel Ferrer
Sharon French
Alice Garcia
Alma Garcia
Penelope Garcia
Briana Garrido
Keith Gimbel
Daniel Guckenburg
Savanna Gull
Robert Gutman
Shirley Henry
Audrey H'Orvath
Maria Hurtado
Jamie Hykes
Kimberly Ivory
Nicole Johnson
Eva Keenan
Celeste Knapp
Karyn Larieze
Irma Leal
Krystal Lloyd
Angela Lopez
Wendy Lopez
Danyele Luna
Gregory Lundeen
Linda Mahoney
Cecilia Maldonado
Dana Marquez
Norma Marroquin
Cindee Marshall Nelson
Sara Matus
Alicia Medina
Sylvia Montes
Lucila Morales
Belma Moran
Corina Moreno
Deborah Murillo
Martinez N
Matiana Navarro
Ruby Navarro
Sandra Niemiec
Ruth O'Neill
Josee-Marie Penner
Nidia Perez
Michele Ragsdale
Claudia Romero
Hayley Sanchez
Jose Sanchez
Jonelle Scott
Nancy Segura
Elsa Simental
Mayra Smith
Marilynn Taylor
Brooke Towery
Tameika Townsend-Replogle
Donna Triesch
Marlana Tritten
Rachel Tyree
Diane Underwood
Terresa Valdez
Kurt Vrancken
Beverly Waller-Scott
Vonetta Williams
Lisa Wolter

10 years

Jamie Adair
Sosana Assad
Rebecca Cody
Sandra Cohuoh
Shirley Contreras
Juanita Corona
Erica Cortes
Jamie Custode
Christi Davis
Cathy Elizarraras
Guadalupe Fernandez
Karen Fernandez
Rochelle Guimmond
Ruth Hernandez
Santi Klainyein
Gabriela Lopez
Gina Martinez
Martha Martinez
Lorraine Medina
Beronica Mendoza
Delma Mendoza
Kelly Mitchell
Rickie Montgomery
Darah Morales
Michelle Moreno
Sandra Moreno
Christine O'Brien
Marcie O'Reilly
Diana Pavlevsky
Len Pham
Heather Powers
Myrna Roper
Ricardo Saldamando
Monica Sauceda
Roxanne Shaffer
Rosalie Silvestre
Kathleen Thomson
Terra Todd
April Vara
Ebony Wise

15 years

Carol Antuna
Jeannie Arnett
Mary Bauchert
Shawnna Brown
Yolanda Burpee
Shawnna Castanon
Kathleen Cook
Sylvia Del Rio
Judy Delgado
Dennis Delote
Lynda Dunston
Gloria Fajardo
Julia Fernandez
Michelle Fonseca
Diane Gomez
Erin Heggi
Maria Hernandez
Manisha Hooks
Margaret Hugelmaier
Patricia Hughes
Billy Keith
Joanna King
Jesse Knabb
Shleshia Manns
Theresa Merrick
Alba Mitchell
Melissa Pacheco
Adam Presby
Barbara Sharp
Judith Zastrow

20 years

Tawn Aceto
Kay Brauner
Deborah Collier
Padmini Davamony
Suzanne Emslie
Maria Futch
Kathy Haimson
Christynne Hernando
Patricia Impson
Lori Lawson
Mary Manzi
Khadjiha Miller
Robin Murray
Alice Nevarez
Cathy Salguero
Maria Silva
Sharon Skaggs
Beatriz Tone
Julianne Tudor
Alma Velasco
Janice Vincent

25 years

Shelley Alonzo
Kathleen Asher
Susan Barbo
Teri Blum-Johnston
Philip Chan
Brenda Chandler
Leticia Diaz
Darlene Downs
Mabel Edgemon
Mary Ketring
Laura Kivett
Judie Lopez
Rachel Marshall
Darcelle Nevatt
Christine Rose
Patricia Tautolo
Tammie Wharton

30 years

Lora Benzatyan
Viorica Carmona
Mary Chun
Patricia Maldonado
Veronica Vasquez

35 years

Debra Kasischke
Healy L
Debra Linnell
Caroline Zumwalt

40 years

Darice Funai
Carol Hollstein
Sheralyn Love
Ruth Marrero
Sheri Reile

LLIECHE

5 years

Sukhdeep Randhawa
Erin Willey

10 years

Mellissa Mahabee

15 years

Brenda Rea

Loma Linda University Medical Center

5 years

Christina Acevedo
Robert Acevedo
Guadalupe Agabo
Jose Aguirre
Elif Akin
Alden Alzola
Matthew Anderson
Desna Andriany
Ron Antonio
Marta Arboleda
Wilson Aritonang
Carli Ashlock
Claudia Attallah
Bradley Axelrod
Jackie Azrak
Rino Azurin
Deborah Baldwin
Mae Baluyot
Brenda Banuelos
Dora Barilla
Carolyn Barnes
Maria Barreto
Jescinda Barrett
Britny Bay
Aileen Bayag
Harmeet Bedi
Ashton Belakoff
Cassie Benevidez
Michael Benggon
Kevin Biegler
Krystle Bonefont
Marie Bonovitz
Teresa Boudreaux
Heather Bowen
Korri Branson
Tenaya Breazile
Jennifer Brown
Lana Brunner
Karin Bryner
Mary Burger
Kristin Cacho
Martha Calero de Falconer
Henry Carbajal
Janine Cardenas Pat
Elsa Carrillo
Krista Caruso
Sandee Casillas
Teresa Castaneda
Edelia Castrellon
Veronica Cedeno
Fabiola Cervantes
Elisa Chapparosa
Regina Chavis
Jeffrey Ching
Duane Cicchelli
Cheryl Cleveland
Ryan Colburn
Bridget Cole
Agnes Copen
Martin Cordero
Maira Corona
Maria Correa de Maldonado
Nancy Cortez
Livia Costa
Marlene Costa
Ma Costales
Jose Covarrubias
Holly Craig-Buckholtz
Karie Crawford
Katherine Crowton
Amy Curtis
Kenneth Davis
Janina De Luna
Donna De Silva
Cleidimara De Souza
Mary Abelene De Vera
Elizabeth Deatrick
Chantel Decker
Tiffany De-Jesus
Marlene Delgadillo
Elisheba Delote
Gabriel Diaz
Rhona Litz Dimalanta
Jedediah Dixon
Elizabeth Dominguez
Dionne Douglas
Lauren Drake
Sarah Drew
Terence Driver
Marjunphilip Duldulao
Long Duong
Ruth Dursteler
Kathleen Elebeck
Krystal Ellison
Heather Enockson
Tetsuya Enomoto
Magda Estfanous
Jennifer Estrada
Emily Everett
Samantha Fabela
Karen Farr
Hector Felix Castano
Wajida Fernando
Fatima Figueroa
Irma Figueroa
Mary Flaczinski
Marla Francis
Angelica Franco
Justin Freed
Corrine Frias
Amy Furdui
John Gabriel
Heidi Gallegos
Brigitte Galvez
Ingrid Garcia
Lailanee Garcia
Luisa Garcia
Priscilla Garcia
Israel Garcia Sanchez
Crystal Garver
Alison Geslani
Allen Ghlandian
Jeffrey Gilchrist
Laura Gillette
Glenda Goldstein
Israel Gomez
Lydia Gomez
Debrah Gonzalez
Rolando Gonzalez
Brittany Gradias
Sarah Graine
Celia Granados
Heather Graves
Norma Guillema
Armando Gutierrez
Ivan Gutierrez
Michael Hakimi
Jennifer Haley
Peggy Harris
Thomas Hatch
Elizabeth Heacock
Lisa Hechanova
Erin Heim
Nohemi Hermosillo Altamirano
Celena Hernandez
Leslie Hernandez
Matthew Hiersche
Dianne Hogle
George Holcomb
Cynthia Holguin
Carla Holohan
Evelyn Hooper
Kimberlee Hooper
Gene Huang
Tammy Hudson
Jessica Hurtado
Yoshie Ichikawa
Randall Isley
Zachary Jager
Kenneth Jahng
Tiant Jenkins
Kenneth Johnson
Matthew Johnson
Robert Johnson
Demetrius Jones
Kim Jones
Vanessa Jones-Oyefeso
Karen Katuls
Reewa Kejriwal
Regan Kelso
Pamela Khan
Nikan Khatibi
Esther Kim
Heidi Kinkade
Aniesa Kirklin
Monica Knight
Lisa Kroopf
Shawn Lafferty
Leyla Lastra
Ronna Latiolait
Elmer Lauron
Brandon Lawson
Sandra Lay
Hanre Le Roux
Shannon Leach
Suha Lebada
Carrie Leichty
Rebecca Lemmermann
Bertha Leon
Natalie Lezcano
Delia Linch
Renald Lintong
Joshua Loeb
Leonardo Lopez
Michael Lopez
Tiffany Lopez
Martha Lopez De Vargas
Jennifer Luke
Martha Lum
Davy Macias
Hindus Maglabe
Powlyne Manoharan
Rajan Maria Susai
Bernadette Mariano
Crystal Markow
Kailin Marlow
Aaron Martinez
Tiffany Martinez
Yesenia Martinez
Karen Matejka
Michelle Mayes
Bradley McCoy
Jeanice McNeal
Tritia McPhoy
Ather Mehboob
Ali Mehdizadeh
Minhthy Meineke
Iris Mejia
Ana Melendrez
Analina Mendes
Antonio Mendez
Maria Mendez
Agnieszka Miron
Jennille Monaco
Ronnie Montano
Angelica Montgomery
Madeline Montry
Patrick Moon
Lisa Moore
Patricia Moran
Margarita Moreno
Jacqueline Morua
Jerry Moya
Annet Mugisha
Cheryl Mumford
Steven Munson
Kari Murray
Ann Nackerman
Brandon Nathaniel
Erica Nava
Noela Ndrekaj
Marjan Neeki
Danielle Nemesio
Trisha Newman
Joyalane Ng
Han Ngo
Teddy Nguyen
Priscilla Nielsen
Maria Nightingale
Daniel Noe
Brittany Nunez
Sheila Odono
Ruby Olson
Samantha Orcasitas
Darlene Orozco
Ana Orozco Mendoza
Kari Ortiz
John Otte
Maria Ovalle
Jeffrey Padgett
Gina Palacios
Ferdy Pangalila
Dana Panos
Amanda Papandrea
Kyle Parker
April Parra
Carrie Parrish
Bhaveshkumar Patel
Sonal Patel
Sarah Patton
Carmen Payan-Hernandez
Melissa Pazeian
Douglas Pedersen
Juan Perez
Amyle Perez-Hernandez
James Perkins
Agnes Peters Arhin
Pilar Pichon
Philip Pitt
Matthew Pond
Monina Ponsones
Kimberly Poplin
Michelle Prideaux
Sarae Pries
Carlos Prieto
Krystal Protz
Sumer Pugh
Genero Quesada
Blanca Raigoza
Gaylene Rajah
Manjula Rajah
Gumersindo Ramires
Anna Ramirez
Jose Ramirez
Mayra Ramirez
Jasmine Ramos
Jennifer Ramos
Yaneli Ramos
Kristin Ratnayake
Adam Redding
Lawrence Reeder
Eva Reese
Shelley Regester
Cheryle Reichert Kennedy
Darlene Reyes
Juan Arnel Reyes
Sonia Rios
Nathalie Ritchie
Rosio Rivera
Holly Roberts
Cole Robinson
Ariana Robles
Tannia Rodriguez
Carlos Roman
Matthew Roos
Myrysha Rosa
Ariel Rosas
Catherline Rosas
Annmarie Roth
Bertha Ruan
Charity Rubio
Cory Russo
Iva Kristin Saenz
Sussy Salcedo
Tina Salcido
Banafsheh Salehi
Paul Samosky
Ricardo Santiago
Shelby Sasenbury
Adam Seidenstricker
Mihir Shah
Nirendra Shrestha
Nivesh Shrestha
Rosalina Simanjuntak
Floyd Simmons
Teoxihuitl Sintora
Jackie Smalley
Ann Smith
Cory Smith
Shauna Smith
Yesenia Smith
Miriam Soda
Hye Jin Song
Catina Marie Spaeth
Alexis Srikureja
Jennifer Stegmaier
Christian Steinmetz
Lynda Sterling
Cathleen Strack
Kristi Stuckey
Alan Sull
Pauline Sung
Jennifer Ta
Upa Talukder
Patricia Tansey-Wright
Natalie Taylor
Angelina Terrana
Noel Thakkar
Elena Theresia
Maung Thue
Benny Tjondrosetio
Megan Tooker
Joy Tossell
Smyrna Tuburan
Louis Valdez
Micaela Valenzuela
Sarah Van Tassell
Clinton VanEgeren
Fiel Angela Varona
Adriana Velasco
Larry Villarreal
Danielle Walker
Caroline Wallner
Cynthia Watkins
Marina Weening
Eva Wells
Christina White
Tamara Williams
Thaddeus Wilson
Steve Witt
Andrea Wolffing
Wendy Wong
Wendy Wong
Andrew Woodward
Larissa Wright
Wing Wu
Eliana Yanes
Alice Yeung
Amy Yin
Brandon Yurt
Heather Zane
Shannon Zavala
Haitao Zhang
Min Zhang

10 years

Nassib Abdul Karim
Raul Acosta
Claudia Aguilar
Sharon Aguinaldo
Robert Agustinus
Melissa Akins
Kristina Alberoni
Lisa Alfred
Crystal Allen
Carmela Alvarez
Iaed Amen
Kathleen Anderson
Lorena Aparicio
Ellengayle Aprecio
Joyce Archbold
Karin Arretche
Marinee Austin
Shirley Avellona
Jesusita Avila
Becky Bain
Jason Baker
Cristina Bancod
Rosa Banuelos
Veda Barcelo
Margaret Baroya
Maria Bartel
Virginia Bierschbach
Jacqueline Blomberg
Elena Botas
Ronda Brandstater
Ketly Brevil
Neil Calaguian
Teresita Calderon
Raquel Calderon-Luna
Adrienne Campos
Patricia Carranza
Ma Henedina Casaclang
Charnell Casady
Kathleen Castaneda
Evelyn Castelo
Leo Castelo
Marlene Castillo
Jennifer Cervantes
Matthew Chatigny
Georgina Cisneros
John Cline
Kim Coffin
Karin Colunga
Guadalupe Cortez
Renato Daluyen
Lester Daproza
Alex Dean
Patricia DeBoer
MeluJean Dela Cruz
Joanna Deleon
Daphne Dionson
Susilamiati Dogan
Krystal Dy
Denise Egbe
Alison English
Hermelinda Espinosa
Michelle Estocada
Lori Estrada
Alfonso Fernandez
Carla Fischetti
Denise Flores
Julie Fluitt
Amie Follett
Corina Gallardo
Fida Geha
Feven Getachew
Fredezminda Girgis
Lisa Glomboske
Virginia Godoy
Lorena Gomez
Isabel Gonzalez
Elaine Guevara
Steve Guzy
Sharon Halbrook
Natasha Hallenbeck
Yvette Ham
Diane Hannon
Rachelle Hariri
Wiljelen Hebia
Anne Helliwell
Nancy Hennings
Andrea Hernandez
Rebecca Hernandez
Kerri Hinkle
Trina Hudson
Valerie Hwang
Sarah Ignacio
Kimberly Johns
David Johnson
Erin Johnson
Kristal Johnson
Linda Jones
Christina Kamp
Flora Kang
Tricia Kazarian
Lourdes Keyes
Glandina Kho
Gina Kim
Janet Koh
Young Kwon
Mila Lafuente-Salvania
Swee Lai
Rosanna Landeros
Thomas Lang
Peter Lau
Elizabeth Lawson
Joan Lawson
Elizabeth Lee
Larry Lee
Somsak Limros Ocha
Carlo Lira
Debra Macamay
Louisa Machain
Melu Jean Malimban
Sherine Manalo-Brosas
Diane Mapes
Janet Marcuelo
Tudora Marinel
Jemwell Martinez
Robert Martinez
Constance Mazurek
Steven McLaughlin
Lorraine Melendez
Yolanda Melendrez
Stephanie Mendoza
Lisa Milstead
Shauntell Minor
Art Mirasol
Gail Moore
Ma Teresa Morales
Joyce Moran
John Nguyen
Sherly Obillo
Janet O'Dell
Lisa Ogaz
Stacey Oseguera
Michael Paden
Lilly Padilla
Michael Palmer
Christina Paris
Leticia Parral
Amy Patchen
Kathryn Peabody
Omar Peralta
Jaime Perez
Kieu Phan
Rocio Quezada-Pingel
Salina Quinonez
Juan Ramos
Estela Reitz
Celyn Reyes
Jerome Reyes
Romeo Reyes
Andrew Rhynus
Claudia Rivera
Yessica Robles
Angela Rodriguez
Megan Rodriguez
Maria Romo
Kanserina Sabrina
Jamayiah Salon
Amrik Sandhu
Susan Saxon
Sylvia Saylor
Elizabeth Scharfe
Mary Scott
Sharona Seals
Jessica Seo
Oscar Serrano
Yvonne Serrano
Sylvia Setser
Prajwol Shakya
Miranda Shields
Meenu Singh
Christa Slawson
Richard Solis
Debra Soliz
Della Stange
Diane Stoddard
Savet Svetasobhana
Margaret Sy
Asma Taha
Nestor Terrado
Mindy Toombs
Elizabeth Torres
Fnu Towafi
Minh Tran
Eleanor Tricolici
Jennifer Tritt
Marife Ty
Nicole Vargas
Victoria Vasquez
Ricardo Vazquez
Janelynn Vicencio
Maria Rowena Villarama
Gene Wainwright
Michelle Weaver
Katherine Wells
Metylene Wilson
Jennifer Yocom
Monica Zepeda
Marie Zuniga

15 years

Kathy Aceres
Sheryl Aka
Karen Alvarez
Martha Alvarez
Penny Amornvut
Roechelle Appel
Zelle Arrogante Frazier
Ryan Ashline
Bridgitt Babbitt
Donna Bailey
Jessica Baldonado
Toni Barding
Jennifer Barker
Dean Barton
Lucinda Betcher
Erlinda Botello
Doree Bruno
Corinna Bustamante
Janel Butera
Reuben Butler
Marce Cadena
Natalia Cairus
Tricia Calderon
Alison Camberos
Sean Campbell
Stephanie Carranza
Doreen Carreon
Rene Catalon
Angelo Cesari
Deanne Champany
Chanda Cinko
Arthur Clark
Methusheila Claudio
Debra Clausen
Ronald Constantine
Wanda Cookson
Jennifer Cruikshank
Patricia Cruz
Dion Cuevas
Rosalind Curl
Raha Deeny
George Delange
Michelle DeSpain
Rosie Di Ponio
Rachel Diaz
Tin Do
Marco Domingo
Cori Dorado
Deborah Duncan
Danya Egger
Elba Eismann
Aronwry Fallon
Kimberly Falsone
Ethel Ferguson
Lucy Fernandez
James Fitts
Marisol Flores
Kristin Fontaine
Barbara Gaitan
Deborah Gallardo
Jennifer Gorrell
Linda Grieve
Michelle Guido
Michael Hahn
Melinda Harris
Hans Heghesan
Jean Helberg
Dianna Hernandez
Judith Holbeck
Teresa Holt
Jeremy Hughes
Elizabeth Ingram
Donald Israel
Kishen Jackson
Ruben Jimenez
Christina Johnson
Janet Jones
Shelly Jones
Lars Jorgensen
Irma Kallstrom
Seema Khashi
Stella Kim
Yoon Kim
Roxanne Lamadrid
Huiling Lee
Larni Leocadio
Donna Lesher
Marie Loiseau
Maureen Macatula
Aloha Malit
Medileen Malqued
Kolini Manu
Melernie Martinez
Mary Marting
Thuy Mazzei
Evelyn McBroom
Karen Mejia
Robert Meyrahn
Theresa Modigh
Martha Monge
Krista Montgomery
Monique Moore
Denise Mortati
LeAnn Nash
Yolanda Navarro
Todd Nelson
De Nguyen
Virginia Nicolas
Maria Nieto
Ann Nilsson
David Olton
Martha Ortiz
Doreen Padilla
Vanessa Padilla
Garnet Pelaez
Maria Perez
Gretchen Perkic
Jennifer Perret
Andrea Perry
Louise Piotrowski
Silvia Plummer
Jonson Rajagukguk
Maria Ramirez
Maria Reynolds
Rita Richardson
Lori Rives
Christopher Rodriguez
Janis Rolleg
Katherine Rooker
Francisca Roque
Nancy Ryu
Michelle Safier
Armando Sanchez Gomez
Marsha Sawyer
Regis Scoubart
Lidia Serban
Linda Shabinaw
Karen Shaffer
Desara Shipley
Irene Silva
Beauty Simon
Nathan Spore
Danece Stapleton
Marcia Stewart
Antonio Tanwangco
Rochelle Taylor
Janice Tellefson
Flor Terreros
Jennifer Teruya
Lady Teves
Rosana Townsend
Eric Trimm
Rodney Tucker
Thongkorn Utrapiromsuk
Nancy Van Leuven
Dana VanStee
Annabelle Villanueva
Robert Webb
Sunjeeve Weerasinghe
Daniel Wilson
Patrick Wolfe
Anne Zobel

20 years

Michael Alexis Timothy Alvarico
Karen Appadorai
Eileen Aquino
Steven Beard
Carolyn Bible
Coleen Bielas
Jacki Blake
Peter Brooks
Ofelia Caldera
Robert Castillo
Robert Chuquimia
Maila Cruz
Rhodie Daus-Robles
Alfred Dewri
Carole Donovan
Gale Duckworth
Mary Estadilla
Stephanie Ferrero
Deborah Fuller
Delbert Garcia
Javier Garcia
Marsi Gonzales
Michael Grant
Merrilee Hadley
Margaret Hernandez
Lynn Hunter
Claudia Imbir
Karen Jackson
Hana John
Shellie Juden
Olga Kalbermatter
Kevin Kerr
Peter Koss
Donna Kotlar
Lynda Lally
Michelle Lewis
Sharon Lip
Debra Lopez Martin
Cheryl Mathis
Mimi Miller
Waraporn Miller
Jamie Mucino
Michael Nguyen
Leda Norris
Sheila Norris
Tonya Oswalt
Ruth Palitang
Michelle Parker
Susan Parti
Ritaben Patel
Julie Peurifoy
Jonnel Pomeroy
Kenneth Porter
DeAnna Potts
Mary Pulido
Sally Rajcevich
Deborah Riddle-Branske
Agnes Salonga
Gigi Samuel
Gary Schiller
Reinhard Schulte
Ramon Sujo
Lucy Tobing
Claudia Vieyra
Rebecca Villarino
Janelle Warren
Sylvia Westrom
Michele Wilson

25 years

Gerald Abejar
Alane Allbee
Siony Alvarado
Kevin Arnott
Janice Avila
Renata Ballard
Kalpona Baroi
Barbara Bohner
Mary Booth
Brenda Bruneau
Henry Cardozo
Wilson Chota
Linda Conforti
Brian Cooper
Liisa Coplin
Sheila Mae Corpuz Garcia
Lance Coulter
Wilfred Daus
Danilo De Guzman
Aurelio De La Rocha
Lisa DeBrier
Bridgeida Elhazin
Dexter Emoto
Pamela Esquivel
Rebeca Estanque
Iran Ghalambor
Monique Gilbert
Selina Gonzales
Carrie Gratner
Eda Gutierrez-Escudero
Julie Gwinn
Y. Hakansson-Lyon
Eli Hernandez
Nancy Hernandez
Joyce Ivy
Rosa Javier
Eva Javier Miranda
Preston John
Pushpa Johnson
Harlan Larsen
Marvaline Long
Lonnie Looysen
Susan Malabuyoc
Jesse Malaguit
Myrna Malveda
Brenda Masongsong
Katrina Mccoy
Kathleen McMillan
Darlene Miller
Cherry Oculam
Julie Pang
Jenifer Pelster
Julie Ramones
Masoumeh Salah Esfahani
Magdeline Salomon
Manmeet Sandhu
Marianne Schul
Gerald Smith
Nitaya Soeprono
Rosemarie Spencer
Cheryl Stone
Gaylene Swanson
Valerie Taylor
Elizabeth Trautner
Veronica Tsui
Catherine Villa
Annette Weston
Barry Wilson
Pamela Yong

30 years

Kathy Bell
Mary Brady
Connie Cunningham
Deborah Damazo
Susan Escobar
Cynthia Gamboa
Dwayne Green
Ella Haddad
Rosemary Hannema-Vannix
John Hill
Elizabeth Juhl
Jan Kramer
Irma Lauw
Sang Lee
Yvonne Lee
Nancy Lo
Yolanda Magana
Murray Matheson
Sergio Mercado
Mirtza Millard
Liesel Miller
Evemiry Ong
Benjamin Orate
Cynthia Pelton
Julieta Quispitupa
Mark Schaefer
Lisa Sharp
Alfonso Sipus
Violet Tamano
Sherilyn Toppenberg
Vickie Utt
Gwendolyn Wysocki

35 years

Lerina Aguilar
Barbara Alexander
Sheryl Buckley
Roy Castillo
Myong Cho
David Christenson
Dina Evans
Deborah Ewing
Martha Guevara
Raymond Hanks
M. Hoch
Linda Johnson
Susie Johnson
Jaroslava Kebbas
James Lewis
Frank Lombardo
Sue Macey
Wayne Matthews
Jean Messinger
Pedro Moreno
Rhonda Nelson
James Newman
Selma Nicholson
Miroslava Pallis
Mei-Ying Pierce
Jeannie Schulz
Audrey Shan
Elizabeth Sitanggang
Jerald Strode
Karen Strum
Terri Swingler
Beethoven Tanada
Magdalena Wareham
Cherie Watt

40 years

Sharon Carbaugh
Albert Cotton
Laurence Feenstra
Lynda Fiesler
Cherryl Groome
Judith Guevara
Ingrid Imperio
Paramjit Judge
Hildha Pakkianathan
Rodney Roath
Joyce Tanada

45 years

Sherry Davis
Mary Guerrero
Dean Hagele
Diane Kovach
Susan Krider

LLU Shared Services

5 years

Carlos Aguero
Ferdinand Atienza
Joseph Bruno
Maria Buchreiter
Sylvia Campos
Ella Christiansen
Jenna Collins
Julia Fisher
Imelda Hatchett Mitchell
Robert Henderson
Jennifer Lawrence
Dorothy Messer
Norma Moya
Pamela Munz
Christine Olivas
Susan Onuma
Lani Ramseyer
Sherrie Resendez
Cori Stiles
Michael Taylor
Lynn Thornstrom
Jennifer White
Mark Zirkelbach

10 years

Marianne Bellettini
Enrique Cairus
Anuradha Diekmann
Holly Holato
Janet Hosino
Regina Joseph
Shana Mowery
Humberto Saldana
Andrea Stoll

15 years

Elizabeth Elwell
Abril Garcia
Jennifer Hickok
James Krausz
Marissa McConnell

20 years

Samuel Eller
Lawrence Kidder
Angela Metoyer
Paulo Pereira
Stephen Vasta

25 years

Estera Arapache
Robert Cole
John Foster
Albin Grohar
Janice Manahl
John Marshall
Jose Martinez
Llona Maxwell
Marcos Romo
Tonetta Tallman
Sabrina Velez

30 years

Sandra Berch
Kenneth Breyer
Alice Foster
Carla Gober
Martha Guijarro
Leslie Morton
Kimberly Woolever

35 years

Linda Halstead
Sharon Mansfield

40 years

Janice Quick-Wolfe

]]>
Thu, 19 Jun 2014 12:04:36 -0700
4264:16779 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- Days of expansion]]> Heather Reifsnyder In the inaugural issue of Loma Linda University Health’s periodical “TODAY”—dated April 13, 1988—the lead story was about the groundbreaking for a major new treatment facility on campus. Last week’s question asked what type of treatment would be offered at the new facility. The answer is proton beam therapy, and the three random winners are Donna J. Eick, Francis Chan, and Jessica Paley. Please e-mail pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

In the same issue of “TODAY,” another story reported on the opening of a new institute at Loma Linda University Medical Center. Which institute was that? E-mail the answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, June 17, for a chance to win. 

]]>
Thu, 12 Jun 2014 13:00:28 -0700
4264:16775 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- Summer sun]]> Health tip of the week

Time spent in the beauty of the outdoors can be part of a life of wholeness, whether this means hiking, swimming, or relaxing in the park. The sun offers a source of cheer but can also damage the skin. Take steps to protect yourself—all year round, even on cloudy days.

Sunburns—and even suntans—are a sign that the skin has been damaged, which can lead to cancer and signs of aging.

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or greater to protect against both ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B rays.

Apply sunscreen generously—don’t hold back!—and reapply every two hours, or more often when swimming or perspiring.

Additional tips to prevent sunburn:

• Stay out of the sun when it is strongest (between 10 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.).
• Check the UV Index at the EPA website (search for "sunwise").
• Wear clothing that covers your arms and legs, and a wide-brimmed hat.
• Wear sunglasses that protect against UVA and UVB rays to protect your eyes. Sun rays can damage eyes, potentially causing cataracts and vision loss as you age.
• Stay in the shade when possible.
• Take care when near cement, water, snow and sand, which reflect the sun’s rays. White sand and other bright surfaces can double UV exposure.
• Don’t even think about tanning beds.

If one does burn, take action immediately. First, get out of the sun. And hydrate—drink extra water. Aspirin or ibuprofen can help reduce swelling, redness, and discomfort. Don’t touch those blisters! And take cool baths or showers to relieve pain. If blisters develop over a large area or if one experiences chills, headache, or fever, it’s time to seek medical care.

http://healthlibrary.lomalindahealth.org/Wellness/Nutrition/NewsRecent/6,687866

Other sources: Food and Drug Administration

]]>
Thu, 12 Jun 2014 12:45:09 -0700
4264:16773 <![CDATA[President Obama recognizes PossAbilities ]]> Herbert Atienza President Barack Obama has recognized Loma Linda University Health’s PossAbilities program as a Presidential Champion for its work in getting people with physical disabilities to be active and fit.

The Office of the President sent the recognition to PossAbilities with a Gold Award and a certificate that states, “In recognition of your outstanding commitment to adopt and maintain a physically active and fit lifestyle. By earning this award you have proven yourself to be a Presidential Champion. I hereby congratulate you on this accomplishment.”

PossAbilities is a community outreach program developed by Loma Linda University Medical Center East Campus and supported by founding partner the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. PossAbilities’ goal is to offer physically challenged people who were born with or have suffered permanent physical injury a sense of community by offering activities and practical help.

The program offers a variety of activities and initiatives that offer support, education, and athletic endeavors to its members, including hosting the yearly PossAbilities Triathlon, an event competed in by thousands of able-bodied and challenged athletes; and Road to Rio, a training program for athletes hoping to compete at the 2016 Paralympics.

The Presidential Champion award is part of The President’s Challenge, a program of the President’s Council on Physical Fitness, Sports, and Nutrition, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The program recognizes efforts to help people of all ages and abilities to increase their physical activity and improve their fitness through research-based information, easy-to-use tools, and friendly motivations.  

“We are deeply humbled to have received this recognition from the President of the United States. It is our hope that the PossAbilities program will continue to provide those with physical disabilities the opportunities to adopt and maintain a healthy lifestyle,” said Pedro R. Payne, Ph.D., director of PossAbilities.

“Whether it’s through our weekly exercise classes, our monthly bike rides, or our annual triathlon, we can think of no better way to help spread our health message other than to ‘Live It,’” he said.

 

]]>
Thu, 12 Jun 2014 12:13:02 -0700
4264:16771 <![CDATA[For the kids: reading and literacy camp]]> The School of Allied Health Professions department of communication sciences and disorders is holding an intensive phonological awareness and literacy camp July 21 through August 1.

The program is designed for incoming kindergarten through third-grade students who are either having difficulty beginning reading or who are at-risk for difficulty beginning reading.

“Participants will have fun while focusing on the building blocks of reading: literature awareness, syllable awareness, rhyme awareness, segmenting, and blending,” says Jennifer St. Clair, assistant professor and clinical coordinator, department of communication sciences and disorders.

Individual speech and language services may also be available.

The cost is $60 per child for the two-week-long camp. Register online at https://campscui.active.com/orgs/LomaLindaUniversity. After June 30, the price rises to $70 per child.

For more information, e-mail jstclair@llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 12 Jun 2014 11:56:20 -0700
4264:16769 <![CDATA[Notes from the President]]> Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   June 2014
History Matters

Memorial Day weekend, May 24 and 25, was memorable on our campus. The School of Medicine class of 2014 was the school’s 100th graduating class. A centenary event like this automatically deserves a look back at the beginnings of the school, from our first six graduates through all the intervening years. What a storied history we have lived since the School of Medicine received its commission to start in 1909, began classes a few months later with only five physicians on the faculty, and subsequently graduated well over 10,000 physicians—more than any other western school.

Perhaps most significantly, as Roger Hadley, our current dean, is fond of saying, we can accurately claim to have the same mission today as when our School of Medicine started. We unequivocally make that claim and are proud to continue that legacy.

Early trials and triumphs

Many of those early stories of trials and triumphs are well known. Careful perusing of our historical manuscripts reveals the depth of the struggles and concerns by both institutional and Church leaders. Many times the future of Loma Linda was in jeopardy, when sheer determination and God’s intervention were all that kept it alive. The commitment of our students through the years has been remarkable, including the first six who showed up for their state board examinations without prior approval, and were finally granted the privilege of taking the tests. Later students voted to remain at Loma Linda when our “C” rating meant they could be drafted into World War I. And the 10 percent of every class who served abroad—starting and developing over 50 mission hospitals—is a record unmatched by any group.

The epic struggle to develop sufficient clinical services to justify accreditation consumed the first 50 years of Loma Linda’s existence. The Inland Empire was sparsely populated back in those days, requiring the development of a clinic and eventually a hospital in Los Angeles to provide adequate patient experience for our students. That hospital, White Memorial, became so successful that many felt the school should move there and consolidate on one campus. But the counsel of Ellen White continued to resonate with many, including activists Bernard Briggs, Claude Steen, George Butler, and others. Finally, David Hinshaw was asked to take on the challenge of consolidating at Loma Linda, building our first Medical Center in 1967, and the rest is history.

The results today

Now we are a complex of six hospitals with more than 1,000 beds, providing a broad diversity of clinical experience for our students. We had the privilege of honoring the foundational role of Dr. Hinshaw at this recent graduation.

Another thankful irony of accreditation, after so many struggles in the early years, is that two classmates from our class of 1974 are now in leadership positions in the two most significant medical accrediting organizations in this country. Don Melnick is president of the National Board of Medical Examiners, which sets standards and certifies individual physicians. And Roger Hadley serves on the board of the Liaison Committee on Medical Education, which certifies medical schools. What would Percy Magan and all the others who fought so hard for recognition think today if they could see this?

Impact was also felt throughout the Church when Loma Linda decided to follow Ellen White’s advice to have “a school of the highest order” and seek accreditation. This single act leveraged the entire United States-based Adventist educational system toward excellence. With our commitment to meet those standards, all the “feeder” colleges across this country needed to also seek accreditation to make their graduates eligible to come to Loma Linda. This moved our growing network of colleges and universities to develop their faculty and programs to meet these higher standards.

In 1952, a new book was written by the biblical scholar J.B. Phillips, titled “Making Men Whole.” The committee working on our 50th anniversary in 1955 saw value in that phrase and coined our motto “To Make Man Whole.” This is now identified and emulated around the world as Loma Linda’s unique definition of our healing ministry. There is no question that recalling our remarkable history gives confidence today that we will continue to triumph as we follow our divine mandate to “continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ.”

Celebrations

There were three parts of our recent graduation weekend that I thought you would enjoy watching (see video links below). First is Charles White’s baccalaureate presentation on Ellen White—his great grandmother—and her remarkable role in founding this place. What would she think today if she could see how her vision of Loma Linda has been carried out in so many remarkable ways? Next is my commencement address to the School of Medicine class of 2014, sharing our history through those early years. We now bequeath to each graduate an amazing legacy when they become a Loma Linda University alumnus.

And finally is the unveiling and dedication of the latest sculpture on campus, commissioned by Reuben Matiko and sculpted by Victor Issa. Located at the designated site for our Legacy Village among the original cottages purchased in 1905, this sculpture tells of the first visit of Ellen White to Loma Linda. She arrived on June 12 of that year by train, with Willie White, her son. As they drove around the hill in an express wagon, Mrs. White repeatedly stated, “Willie, I have been here before.” “No, Mother,” he replied, “You have never been here.” “Then this is the very place God has shown me,” she replied, referring to a vision she had nearly four years before. That moment in history, as they share that conclusion with John Burden, is beautifully captured in this newest addition to our campus culture and history.

The future

Pray for those of us who carry the heavy mantle of leadership today. Knowing our history gives us both a profound sense of commitment to the destiny of this place and a deep desire to maintain its uniqueness. One of our faculty, Michael Walter, recently forwarded to me a slogan so fitting for Loma Linda. It says,

 

“The task ahead of you is never greater than the power behind you.”

 

May this realization guide us all today.

Richard H. Hart

 

 

Charles White baccalaureate address
https://llu.mediaspace.kaltura.com/media/%22Of+The+Highest+Order...%22+-+Elder+Charles+White%2C+D.Min/0_djmknq92

 

Richard Hart commencement address
https://llu.mediaspace.kaltura.com/media/Build+Your+Legacy+-+President+Richard+Hart%2C+MD%2C+DrPH/0_l0mc0mxa

 

“This is the Very Place” sculpture unveiling
https://llu.mediaspace.kaltura.com/media/%22This+is+the+very+place...%22+Unveiling+-+May+24th%2C+2014/0_si1zcqfh

Office of the President, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350

Copyright © 2014 by Loma Linda University

llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 12 Jun 2014 11:27:51 -0700
4264:16695 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- 'TODAY']]> Heather Reifsnyder Prior to “TODAY,” which began publication in the 1980s, the campus newspaper for Loma Linda University was called the “Observer.” “Newsbreak” was also accepted as a correct answer, which was a publication that served LLU Medical Center.

Larry Feenstra, Mignon Mosley, and Kimber Werner are this week’s three random winners. Please e-mail pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

In 1988, the “Observer” and “Newsbreak” ceased publication and were succeeded by LLUH “TODAY,” which still runs monthly and reports on all of Loma Linda University Health.

The very first issue of “TODAY” reported on groundbreaking ceremonies for a major new therapeutic facility at Loma Linda University Medical Center. What treatment would be offered at the facility? 

E-mail the answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, June 10, for a chance to win. 

]]>
Thu, 05 Jun 2014 15:34:27 -0700
4264:16692 <![CDATA[LLUMC helps hospitalized teen celebrate rite of passage]]> http://abc7.com/education/special-graduation-held-for-injured-ie-teen/86575/]]> When Madison Perea was unable to attend her high school graduation following a brain hemorrhage, her school brought graduation to LLUMC East Campus. Watch the ABC7 report.

]]>
Thu, 05 Jun 2014 15:28:04 -0700
4264:16689 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- Should you go vegetarian?]]> Nancy Yuen According to the American Dietetic Association, most people throughout history have eaten primarily plant-based diets. 

Because vegetarians consume little if any food derived from animals, they consume less total fat, saturated fat and cholesterol than non-vegetarians. This eating pattern reduces their risk for heart disease and heart attacks.

Numerous studies such as those done at Loma Health have found that vegetarians have a lower risk for obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes and some cancers. However, vegetarian diets that are too high in calories and saturated fat are unhealthy.

Here are several tips to plan healthy vegetarian meals. 

  • Plan to build meals around low-fat protein sources, such as beans, lentils and brown rice. 
  • Use vegetables to replace meat and poultry in recipes. 
  • Search the Living Whole Wellness Program’s “Recipe for Success” archive for vegetarian recipes at http://bit.ly/1jkX8bY.

“Recipe for Success” lists recipes in categories including entrees, sandwiches, burgers, and wraps, and soups and salads.

Have fun exploring the site and finding new tasty vegetarian recipes, including brown rice stuffed portabellos (vegan, gluten and soy-free) at http://bit.ly/1unrMVs, and vegetarian pad thai at http://bit.ly/1i6KPfl.

Source: LLUH 2014 health & wellness calendar

]]>
Thu, 05 Jun 2014 15:10:17 -0700
4264:16684 <![CDATA[Five schools to host graduation]]> Loma Linda University’s graduation season will conclude with services for five schools the weekend of June 13-15: Allied Health Professions, Behavioral Health, Nursing, Public Health, and Religion.  

Friday evening, a “Focus on Graduates” vespers service will take place at 7:30 p.m. in the Loma Linda University Church for the five schools and the Faculty of Graduate Studies.

Saturday, baccalaureate services will be held at Loma Linda University Church at 9:00 a.m. for the schools of Allied Health Professions and Public Health, followed by an 11:45 a.m. service for the schools of Nursing, Religion, and Behavioral Health.

Commencement ceremonies will take place at Drayson Center on Sunday, June 15.

8:00 a.m. -  School of Religion and School of Behavioral Health
Speaker: Kathryn Icenhower, PhD, MSW, chief executive officer of SHIELDS for Families 

10:30 a.m. – School of Nursing
Speaker: Terry Swenson, DMin, MDiv, chaplain and associate professor of religion, Loma Linda University 

1:00 p.m. – School of Public Health
Speaker: Donna Petersen, ScD, MHS, dean of the College of Public Health at University of South Florida, Tampa

3:30 p.m. – School of Allied Health Professions, physical therapy program
6:00 p.m. – School of Allied Health Professions, all other programs
Speaker: Dora Barilla, DrPH, assistant vice president for strategy and innovation, LLUH, and associate director of LLU Institute for Health Policy and Leadership

]]>
Thu, 05 Jun 2014 14:01:44 -0700
4264:16670 <![CDATA[A celebration worthy of 100 years]]> The School of Medicine concluded its five-year centennial celebration June 1 with an anniversary bash marking the graduation of its 100th class.

Open to the community and designed for the whole family, the event featured 1920s style music and entertainers, free popcorn, face painting, and fireworks, along with fare from local food vendors.   

 

]]>
Thu, 05 Jun 2014 13:06:49 -0700
4264:16669 <![CDATA[Loyal staff feted at Employee Recognition Banquets ]]> The first week of June, Loma Linda University Health held its annual Employee Recognition Banquets honoring those who have served at the organization for milestone anniversaries of five or more years.

Loma Linda University

5 years
Nancy Peterson
James Pinder
David Pulido
Brittnee Quintanar
Carlos Rodriguez Urrutia
Elvia Sandoval
Gina S. Siapco
Ryan G. Sinclair
Scott C. Smith
Sandra Soria
Tania L. Stewart
Shanalee G. Tamares
Monica Tovar
James R. Trott
David Weldon
Cynthia Wicker
Brian Yap
Xiao-Bing Zhang

10 years
Maria Leon
Sheila Luistro
Mark Mattheson
Adrian Mobilia
Dorian Montesinos
Jonathan Neidigh
Maria Ochoa
Jason E. Owen
Virginia Palma
Sharon Pavlovich
Daniel Perez
Darrell Petersen
Alice Roberts
Debra Ross
Sabam Sagala
Marisela Sanchez
Megan Schatzschneider
Brent Shakespeare
Brian Sharp
Emma Sigue
Mehul S. Sonawala
Jiping Tang
Heather J. Thomas
Stephen Vodhanel
Brenten Walker
Nathan Wall
Seth Wiafe

15 years
Wen-Guang Li
Dolores Magana
Marisela Mendez
Cindy Messer
Cynthia Meyer
Robin Mossiah
Esther Musalim
Ehren Ngo
Kevin Nick
Michelle Ojeda
Neil Palec
Lydia Partida
Cynthia A. Paulo
David Rodriguez
Desmond Stacey
Robert Tyo
R. Bruce Walter
Sandra Wright

20 years
Rita Galvan
Paul Haerich
Gordon E. Hewes
Juanita Ibanez
Miroljub Ilich
G. Jackson
Edwin Jones
Stephen Michel
Teresa Montgomery
Garfield Olton
Judith Palladino
Dawn Perry
Reuben Quijano
Gabriel Ramirez
Johnny Ramirez
Susan Roche
Abimael Sanchez-Martinez
Verdell Schaefer

25 years
Kenneth Hendricks
Mark Johnson
Gloria Martinez
Robert Moisescu
Christine Molinaro
George Petti
Jeana Raye
Karen Schiller
Ruly Siahaan
Gustavo Sosa Perez
Barbara Tatarchuk
Tony Valenzuela
Debra Warmouth
Sandra Webb

30 years
Marvalee Hoffman
Jana Neilsen
Lysenia Quijano
Susan Richards
Robert Schaefer
Ardis Wazdatskey
Carol Weismeyer

35 years
Raydolfo Aprecio
Rebekah Bartos
Marianne Bossert
Ian Chand
Marie Delange
Carlene Drake
Floyd Ferguson
Gary E. Fraser
Nellie Greene
Mary Hartwell
Sharon Lane
Kathleen L. Moore
Jeanne Newbold
Charles Pakpahan
Judith Rynearson

40 years
Kenneth Ashcroft
Georgia Hodgkin
Nellie Killion
Arthur Kroetz
David Larson
Jacqueline Myers
Pedro Nava
Judith Peters
Gloria Ramirez
Lynn Gay Wilkemeyer

LLU Shared Services

5 years
Carlos Aguero
Ferdinand Atienza
Joseph Bruno
Maria Buchreiter
Sylvia Campos
Ella Christiansen
Jenna Collins
Julia Fisher
Imelda Hatchett Mitchell
Robert Henderson
Jennifer Lawrence
Dorothy Messer
Norma Moya
Pamela Munz
Christine Olivas
Susan Onuma
Lani Ramseyer
Sherrie Resendez
Cori Stiles
Michael Taylor
Lynn Thornstrom
Jennifer White
Mark Zirkelbach

10 years
Marianne Bellettini
Enrique Cairus
Anuradha Diekmann
Holly Holato
Janet Hosino
Regina Joseph
Shana Mowery
Humberto Saldana
Andrea Stoll

15 years
Elizabeth Elwell
Abril Garcia
Jennifer Hickok
James Krausz
Marissa McConnell

20 years
Samuel Eller
Lawrence Kidder
Angela Metoyer
Paulo Pereira
Stephen Vasta

25 years
Estera Arapache
Robert Cole
John Foster
Albin Grohar
Janice Manahl
John Marshall
Jose Martinez
Llona Maxwell
Marcos Romo
Tonetta Tallman
Sabrina Velez

30 years
Sandra Berch
Kenneth Breyer
Alice Foster
Carla Gober
Martha Guijarro
Leslie Morton
Kimberly Woolever

35 years
Linda Halstead
Sharon Mansfield

40 years
Janice Quick-Wolfe

Loma Linda University Medical Center/all hospitals

5 years
Wing Wu
Eliana Yanes
Alice Yeung
Amy Yin
Brandon Yurt
Heather Zane
Shannon Zavala
Haitao Zhang
Min Zhang
Diane Brantmeyer
Adrian Delgado
Michelle Dix
Phillip Fokas
Kristi Gober
Doloris Mitchell
Tukia Vakalahi
Jennifer Weniger
Sukhdeep Randhawa
Erin Willey

10 years
Jennifer Tritt
Marife Ty
Nicole Vargas
Victoria Vasquez
Ricardo Vazquez
Janelynn Vicencio
Maria Rowena Villarama
Gene Wainwright
Michelle Weaver
Katherine Wells
Metylene Wilson
Jennifer Yocom
Monica Zepeda
Marie Zuniga
Kelley Lamb
Anni Matlock
JoLynn Musicant
Tjitji Setiadi
Kimberly Sheer
Heather Ulrich
Sylvia Villegas
Mellissa Mahabee

15 years
Rosana Townsend
Eric Trimm
Rodney Tucker
Thongkorn Utrapiromsuk
Nancy Van Leuven
Dana VanStee
Annabelle Villanueva
Robert Webb
Sunjeeve Weerasinghe
Daniel Wilson
Patrick Wolfe
Anne Zobel
Annamarie Dugaduga
Mark Ghosh
Annette Winkler
Brenda Rea

20 years
Julie Peurifoy
Jonnel Pomeroy
Kenneth Porter
DeAnna Potts
Mary Pulido
Sally Rajcevich
Deborah Riddle-Branske
Agnes Salonga
Gigi Samuel
Gary Schiller
Reinhard Schulte
Ramon Sujo
Lucy Tobing
Claudia Vieyra
Rebecca Villarino
Janelle Warren
Sylvia Westrom
Michele Wilson
Lucy Brooks
Carla Wierenga
Andrew Wildasinn
Joel Zahid

25 years
Julie Ramones
Masoumeh Salah Esfahani
Magdeline Salomon
Manmeet Sandhu
Marianne Schul
Gerald Smith
Nitaya Soeprono
Rosemarie Spencer
Cheryl Stone
Gaylene Swanson
Valerie Taylor
Elizabeth Trautner
Veronica Tsui
Catherine Villa
Annette Weston
Barry Wilson
Pamela Yong

30 years
Yolanda Magana
Murray Matheson
Sergio Mercado
Mirtza Millard
Liesel Miller
Evemiry Ong
Benjamin Orate
Cynthia Pelton
Julieta Quispitupa
Mark Schaefer
Lisa Sharp
Alfonso Sipus
Violet Tamano
Sherilyn Toppenberg
Vickie Utt
Gwendolyn Wysocki

35 years
Lerina Aguilar
Barbara Alexander
Sheryl Buckley
Roy Castillo
Myong Cho
David Christenson
Dina Evans
Deborah Ewing
Martha Guevara
Raymond Hanks
M. Hoch
Linda Johnson
Susie Johnson
Jaroslava Kebbas
James Lewis
Frank Lombardo
Sue Macey
Wayne Matthews
Jean Messinger
Pedro Moreno
Rhonda Nelson
James Newman
Selma Nicholson
Miroslava Pallis
Mei-Ying Pierce
Jeannie Schulz
Audrey Shan
Elizabeth Sitanggang
Jerald Strode
Karen Strum
Terri Swingler
Beethoven Tanada
Magdalena Wareham
Cherie Watt

40 years
Sharon Carbaugh
Albert Cotton
Laurence Feenstra
Lynda Fiesler
Cherryl Groome
Judith Guevara
Ingrid Imperio
Paramjit Judge
Hildha Pakkianathan
Rodney Roath
Joyce Tanada

45 years
Sherry Davis
Mary Guerrero
Dean Hagele
Diane Kovach
Susan Krider

Loma Linda University Health Care

5 years
Marilynn Taylor
Brooke Towery
Tameika Townsend-Replogle
Donna Triesch
Marlana Tritten
Rachel Tyree
Diane Underwood
Terresa Valdez
Kurt Vrancken
Beverly Waller-Scott
Vonetta Williams
Lisa Wolter

10 years
Marcie O'Reilly
Diana Pavlevsky
Len Pham
Heather Powers
Myrna Roper
Ricardo Saldamando
Monica Sauceda
Roxanne Shaffer
Rosalie Silvestre
Kathleen Thomson
Terra Todd
April Vara
Ebony Wise

15 years

Mary Bauchert
Margaret Hugelmaier
Patricia Hughes
Billy Keith
Joanna King
Jesse Knabb
Shleshia Manns
Theresa Merrick
Alba Mitchell
Melissa Pacheco
Adam Presby
Barbara Sharp
Judith Zastrow

20 years
Lori Lawson
Mary Manzi
Khadjiha Miller
Robin Murray
Alice Nevarez
Cathy Salguero
Maria Silva
Sharon Skaggs
Beatriz Tone
Julianne Tudor
Alma Velasco
Janice Vincent

25 years
Mabel Edgemon
Mary Ketring
Laura Kivett
Judie Lopez
Rachel Marshall
Darcelle Nevatt
Christine Rose
Patricia Tautolo
Tammie Wharton

30 years
Lora Benzatyan
Viorica Carmona
Mary Chun
Patricia Maldonado
Veronica Vasquez

35 years
Debra Kasischke
Healy L
Debra Linnell
Caroline Zumwalt

40 years
Darice Funai
Carol Hollstein
Sheralyn Love
Ruth Marrero
Sheri Reile

 

]]>
Thu, 05 Jun 2014 12:23:46 -0700
4264:16587 <![CDATA[Loma Linda University sends the class of 2014 into the world]]> Larry Kidder, MA Family, friends, faculty, and other well wishers descended upon the campus of Loma Linda University for a weekend of pomp and circumstance, celebrating the class of 2014.

Three graduation exercises took place Sunday, May 25, granting degrees to nearly 500 graduates. Five more ceremonies will take place Sunday, June 15, at Loma Linda University Drayson Center.

The schools of Medicine, Pharmacy, and Dentistry kicked off the 2014 commencement season, with ceremonies at 8:30 a.m., 1:00, and 5:00 p.m. respectively. These were held on the south campus mall, facing Coleman and Chan Shun pavilions.

The LLU School of Medicine granted 192 degrees—172 with the MD degree, two bachelor’s and six master’s degree candidates, and 12 PhDs. The School of Pharmacy graduated 82 with the PharmD degree. The School Dentistry bestowed 222 degrees—nearly 50 with associate’s and bachelor’s degrees in dental hygiene, 101 with DDS, 21 through the International Dentistry Program, and 53 with post-doctoral MS degrees in dental specialties.

Commencement addresses were given by Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health; Ronald Carter, PhD, provost of Loma Linda University; and Graham Stacey, PhD, MS, associate dean of students for Loma Linda University School of Dentistry, respectively.

During the School of Medicine commencement ceremony, four individuals were honored by Loma Linda University. They are:

  • David Hinshaw, MD, emeritus professor of surgery and former president of Loma Linda University Medical Center, LLUSM class of 1947: LLU Lifetime Service Award.
  • He Chao, MD, vice president, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, and professor of surgical oncology, Zhejiang University Medical College, Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China: LLU Global Service Award.
  • Leroy Reese, MD, associate dean of the LLU School of Medicine at White Memorial Medical Center, LLUSM class of 1972: University Alumnus of the Year
  • Charles Sims, MD, LLUSM class of 1960, president and cofounder of California Cryobank, Los Angeles: University Distinguished Humanitarian Award

During the School of Dentistry commencement, two individuals were also honored with LLU awards. They are:

  • Peter Geistlich, PhD, board chair, Geistlich Pharma, Wolhusen, Switzerland: Distinguished Humanitarian Award
  • Yiming Li, DDS, MSD, PhD: LLU Distinguished Investigator Award

A detailed article regarding the graduations, as well as the university and school honorees, will be included in the June 2014 issue of “LLUH Today.” Images from each of the three schools are available here:

·         School of Medicine: on.fb.me/1tCWtp7

·         School of Pharmacy: on.fb.me/1ojJHMk

·         School of Dentistry: on.fb.me/1tDAT3U

 

 

]]>
Thu, 29 May 2014 11:41:35 -0700
4264:16577 <![CDATA[Motocross riders thrill patients during 11th annual Big Air Kids Fair at Loma Linda University Children's Hospital]]> Herbert Atienza and Heather Reifsnyder, MA Dozens of young patients, their families, and members of the community were thrilled Wednesday, May 28, by the daring stunts performed by some of the nation’s best freestyle Motocross riders at the 11th annual Big Air Kids Fair at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital.

The riders, Jimmy Fitzpatrick, Scotty Stephens, and Kenny Bell, launched into the air from a ramp to gasps and cheers from the crowd. They performed backflips, twists, and other fearless aerial maneuvers before landing on a ramp in front of the hospital.

After the performance the riders and other members of the Motocross community posed for photos, signed autographs. They also visited children who could not leave the hospital, distributing toys and Moto gifts. The visiting Motocross stars and special guests included: Andy Bell, Ricky James, Sara Price, Trey Canard, Will Hahn, Zach Osborne, Justin Bogle, Kyle Cunningham, Cole Seely and Blake Baggett.

One impressed member of the audience was motocross enthusiast Billy Hughes, PhD, who is also dean of the School of Pharmacy. He bought his first motorcycle at age 12 and has been riding ever since—currently on a Husqvarna WR300 2-stroke when he has time to make it out to single tracks and fire roads near Lake Silverwood.

The show, he says, “was spectacular. Those guys are good.” Hughes also observed the children’s reactions, noting that as the jumps and tricks got more impressive, the looks on their faces became more and more excited.

The children’s faces further lit up, Hughes says, when the motocross riders interacted with them. “It was a lot of fun to watch the spark in the kids’ eyes.”

Steve Bauer, former professional Motocross rider who founded Big Air Kids Fair in 2003, expressed thanks to the patients and their families who were in attendance.

“This event is a wonderful opportunity for the members of the motorcycle industry to give back to the community that supports it,” he said, “and helps us give some young patients a reason to smile.”

]]>
Thu, 29 May 2014 10:04:16 -0700
4264:16571 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- A 'SMART' way to begin a new exercise program]]> When planning a new exercise routine, it’s easy to plan major changes that fall by the wayside. Instead, consider making small changes that will begin to show results right away.

Choose SMART goals, which are:

S = Specific. Instead of planning to exercise more, choose an activity and decide how often you’ll do it. For instance, walk 30 minutes, five times a week.

M = Measurable. Track your progress in minutes, pounds, days or miles.

A = Attainable. Pick a small, short-term goal. Once you succeed, reward yourself and then aim higher.

R = Relevant. Your main objective is a long, healthy life. Any new habits should support that.

T = Time-bound. Deadlines are motivating. Setting a strict timeline fights procrastination.

Source: 2014 LLUH Live It! Health and Wellness Calendar

]]>
Thu, 29 May 2014 09:29:31 -0700
4264:16568 <![CDATA[Community invited to Anniversary Bash celebrating School of Medicine's 100-year history]]> The Loma Linda University School of Medicine (LLUSM) will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the school's first graduating class with an evening of fun for the whole family. The event will take place Sunday, June 1, at 6:00 p.m. in front of the Centennial Complex.

“The entire community is invited to join us in celebration of a remarkable milestone in the history of Loma Linda University and its School of Medicine,” says Roger Hadley, MD, dean, LLUSM. “Fireworks at the Centennial Complex will close the five-year celebration of our 100-year anniversary, extending from October of 2009, to June 2014, one hundred years after the first class graduated.”

The evening will feature 1920s carnival-themed fun with free face painting, entertainers and popcorn. Food will be available for purchase from local vendors including Crepes of Wrath and Fresh Street Food Truck. Bring blankets or lawn chairs for seating on the lawn for the fireworks show.

For more information, visit medicine.llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 29 May 2014 09:11:21 -0700
4264:16566 <![CDATA[Incoming interim CEO says work of LLUH is sacred]]> Jiggs Gallagher Kerry Heinrich, an attorney associated with Loma Linda University Medical Center (LLUMC) since 1984, has been named interim chief executive officer of LLUMC and interim administrator of Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital, effective July 1. He will replace Ruthita Fike, whose resignation will be effective July 1 after serving as CEO of LLUMC for 10 years.

Heinrich will provide strategic leadership for—and oversee day-to-day operations of—the six hospitals that constitute LLUMC. He will work collaboratively with leadership to ensure that major initiatives continue to move forward.

“I’m humbled to be working closely with so many talented and dedicated people at this great institution,” Heinrich said after the announcement. “Our nurses, physicians, technicians, our plumbers and electricians, our housekeeping staff and food service workers—each one is integral to helping us carry out Christ’s mission of teaching and healing, bringing wholeness and wellness to our patients.”

Heinrich said his long association with Loma Linda meant that he has experienced some of the emotional highs and lows of life as a family member of patients. He said the experience has given him empathy for what people experience within the medical center’s walls.

“Two of the happiest days of my life were the days my two children were born at Loma Linda, and I had the privilege of holding each new child in my arms for the first time. The elation I felt then can’t be matched.

“Conversely, there were two other times, a decade later, when my emotions were at the other end of the spectrum. One time was when I watched my father-in-law, with whom I was very close, lose his battle for life with a mitral valve heart problem. Then, just a year after that, my dear mother was taken from us after a 14-year struggle with breast cancer.

“Those times taught me how vulnerable and how reachable and teachable our patients and their loved ones are when they’re in our care. These are the kinds of moments Jesus used to reach out to people, meeting them where they were in all their suffering and need, and helping to restore them physically and spiritually. I know this because I lived it.”

Heinrich said those providing care and those who support them are uniquely positioned to reach out and help people at those vulnerable moments. “I believe the capacity we have to do this ennobles us as employees and brings meaning and fulfillment to our work in this sacred place.”

He added that talented people at every level are the real asset of a great university and medical center. “For all the cutting-edge technology, equipment, programs and services we have—and they are all wonderful—it’s our people that make the difference. Their love for the Lord and for their fellow man are the hallmarks that distinguish us from purely physical healthcare.”

He also felt that the quality of employees and service providers is what ultimately makes a leader’s success possible. “I’m here to nurture people, to help them rise to the very best that they can be and do for our patients. We truly are here to carry forward the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus.”

During his 30-year career, Heinrich has conducted contract negotiations, financial acquisitions, complex corporate restructures and major initiatives to improve reimbursements for the health care entities. He received his bachelor’s degree in history and a minor in business with an emphasis in finance and management from Walla Walla University in Washington. He earned a juris doctor (JD) degree from the University of Oregon’s School of Law.

]]>
Thu, 29 May 2014 08:44:28 -0700
4264:16559 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- Periodicals]]> Heather Reifsnyder What new campus periodical started publication in 1963? “University Scope.” Stephanie France, Alice Foster, and J.C. Lynch: You are the random winners. Please send an e-mail to pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

“Scope” was a weekly newspaper covering hard news, complementing “Loma Linda University Magazine,” which covered special-interest articles in greater depth.

In 1970, Scope replaced Loma Linda University Magazine, and the campus newspaper took on a new name that lasted until 1988, when “Today”—as it is still known—became the newspaper title. 

What was the name of the newspaper from 1970–1988?

E-mail the answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, June 3, for a chance to win.

]]>
Wed, 28 May 2014 22:50:37 -0700
4264:16550 <![CDATA[Unveiled: 'This is the Very Place']]> Heather Reifsnyder On May 24, under the trees atop the Nichol Hall hill—the very mound from which Loma Linda takes its name meaning “Beautiful Hill”—a crowd gathered in anticipation of the moment when a new sculpture called “This is the Very Place” would be unveiled.

The sculpture by Victor Issa recalls the moment Ellen White visited Loma Linda on June 12, 1905, and knew it to be the location she had seen in a vision.

White traveled with her son Willie and was met by John Burden, who had made the property purchase. Upon arriving on the Beautiful Hill, Ellen White said, “Willie, I have been here before.”

He responded, “No, Mother. You have never been here.”

“Then this is the very place the Lord has shown me, for it is all familiar,” she answered.

Members of the White and Burden families attended the sculpture unveiling.

Speakers at the ceremony were Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health; Victor Issa, sculptor; B. Lyn Behrens, MBBS, president emerita; and John Burden (played by Randy Roberts, pastor of Loma Linda University Church).

In character, Roberts said he feared that people would forget the remarkable story of Loma Linda University Health’s beginnings, concluding with a quote from White in “Life Sketches of Ellen G. White”:

“We have nothing to fear for the future, except as we shall forget the way the Lord has led us, and His teaching in our past history.”

Donor Reuben Matiko, MD, School of Medicine class of 1945, commissioned the sculpture a few years ago after feeling impressed that God’s leading in the founding of Loma Linda University Health should be memorialized in illustration.

]]>
Wed, 28 May 2014 22:04:07 -0700
4264:16505 <![CDATA[This weekend: graduation details]]> Heather Reifsnyder Students from pharmacy, medicine, and dentistry will experience the culmination of their dedication and hard work during baccalaureate and commencement ceremonies May 24 and 25.

Saturday, baccalaureate services will take place at Loma Linda University Church for the Schools of Dentistry and Pharmacy at 9:00 a.m., followed by the School of Medicine at 11:45 a.m.

The following day, the three schools will hold their commencement ceremonies on the campus mall between LLU Church and the School of Dentistry.

• School of Medicine – 8:30 a.m.
  Speaker: Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health

• School of Pharmacy – 1:30 p.m.
  Speaker: Ronald L. Carter, PhD, provost, Loma Linda University

• School of Dentistry – 5:00 p.m.
  Speaker: Graham Stacey, PhD, associate dean for student affairs, LLU School of Dentistry

This year’s School of Medicine graduates compose the 100th class of medical students to graduate from Loma Linda University. 

]]>
Thu, 22 May 2014 12:49:49 -0700
4264:16503 <![CDATA[The story behind the sculpture]]> Advancement films

John A. Burden from Loma Linda University Health on Vimeo.

]]>
The newest faith-based sculpture on campus will be unveiled and dedicated this Saturday, May 24, atop the Nichol Hall hill.

Christened “This Is the Very Place,” the sculpture remembers the unwavering faith and obedience to the call of the Lord by Ellen White and John Burden in founding Loma Linda University Health.

Watch the fascinating story of the beginning of Loma Linda University Health here.

]]>
Thu, 22 May 2014 12:39:04 -0700
4264:16501 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- Walking the talk]]> Nancy Yuen While you may never visit a gym, there are many ways to exercise. Even if planning a daily walk is not your thing, there are many enjoyable ways to get moving. Here are a few ideas:

  • Visit the Loma Linda Farmer’s Market after work on Tuesdays.
  • Volunteer to walk dogs for an animal shelter.
  • Clean up a park or beach.
  • Explore a local museum or historical site.
  • Download one of the many exercise apps onto your smartphone; some will make donations to charities for each mile you walk.
  • Before starting any exercise plan, be sure to check with your doctor.

Remember, if you’re walking, you’re lapping everyone on the couch.

]]>
Thu, 22 May 2014 12:25:45 -0700
4264:16499 <![CDATA[Preventive Care Clinic at Drayson Center to hold open house ]]> Herbert Atienza The public will get the chance to receive wellness and wholeness checks, body composition analysis, and disease prevention counseling at the second annual Loma Linda University Health Drayson Center Preventive Care Clinic open house on Thursday, May 29.

The open house, free to the public, is set for 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. at Loma Linda University Drayson Center, 25040 Stewart St., Loma Linda, Calif. 92350.

“We are excited to host our open house for the second year because we have seen at last year’s event how interested people are to learn more about things that they can do to improve their health and wholeness,” says Hildemar Dos Santos, MD, DrPH, assistant professor in the preventive care program at Loma Linda University School of Public Health and director of the Drayson Center Preventive Care Clinic.

“Many chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, and heart disease, may be controlled or managed by making simple lifestyle changes, such as better managing weight, exercising, controlling stress, and not smoking,” he says.

Attendees will benefit from body composition checks and counseling; blood glucose checks; Full Plate Diet information; health brochures and posters; blood pressure checks; waist and hip circumference testing; hand grip and strength testing; and a tour of the medicinal herbal garden. Jamba Juice will sell drinks to raise money to support Mission Inside Continents and Islands’ (MICI) efforts to help build a school in the West African country of Mali.

For more information, call 909-651-5077.

]]>
Thu, 22 May 2014 11:53:04 -0700
4264:16497 <![CDATA[Freestyle motocross stars to soar during show at LLUH]]> Herbert Atienza Some of the world’s best freestyle motocross riders will put on a show for the young patients at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital at the 11th annual Big Air Kids Fair.

The event is set for 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 28, outside the Children’s Hospital. The hospital is located at 11234 Anderson St., Loma Linda, Calif. 92354.

Top riders expected to perform include Jimmy Fitzpatrick, Wes Agee, and others, who will demonstrate jaw-dropping, gasp-inducing, ramp-to-ramp motocross stunts.

After the demo, the riders will visit the pediatric patients in the units to distribute T-shirts, toys, and moto swag to the children and their families.

“This event is a wonderful opportunity for the members of the motorcycle industry to give back to the community that supports it, and helps us give some young patients a reason to smile,” says Steve Bauer, former professional motocross rider who founded Big Air Kids Fair in 2003.

The event, which features riders back-flipping through the air among other daring stunts, has since become a popular event for the kids at the Children’s Hospital and members of the public.

]]>
Thu, 22 May 2014 11:34:42 -0700
4264:16427 <![CDATA['Life on the Line' comes to local PBS]]> Advancement films ]]> “Life on the Line,” Loma Linda University Health's first national TV show, is set to air on local public television station KVCR starting May 21. Tune in to channel 24 on Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. and Sundays at 5:00 p.m. For more information visit www.lifeontheline.tv.

]]>
Thu, 15 May 2014 13:42:38 -0700
4264:16425 <![CDATA[Ellen G. White Branch Office: 'Keeping the Vision Alive']]> The Ellen G. White Estate Branch Office’s purpose is to preserve and promote the writings and the legacy of Ellen White, a visionary leader of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. The center houses White’s unpublished letters and manuscripts, her published works, document files, family photographs, and other helpful resources related to her life and ministry. Ellen G. White is one of the founders of Loma Linda University and helped develop its early philosophy of Christian medical education. The office is located in the Del E. Webb Memorial Library’s Vernier Radcliffe wing.

While the center is open to the public, most of her writings are also available online. The main webpage of the White Estate, with a vast amount of valuable information related to White, her writings, and ministry is located at www.ellenwhite.org.

The section “Who Was Ellen G. White” describes, in brief, her life experiences, visions, and role within the development of the Seventh-day Adventist denomination. Another helpful link is “Issues and Answers.” It contains some of the more challenging and controversial subjects related to White and her prophetic work.

In addition, a new web reference contains a searchable database of White’s published works in more than 50 languages. The site, www.egwwritings.org, also provides some of her books in an audio format. It is regularly updated to add new features and languages. 

Books written by White may also be accessed on iPhone and Android phones and tablet devices through a free app: EGW Writings.

The Ellen G. White Estate Branch Office at Loma Linda University is an extension of the Ellen G. White Estate Main Office of the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists in Silver Spring, Maryland.

Loma Linda University Health welcomes Theodore Levterov, PhD, as the new director of the Ellen G. White Estate Branch Office. He is also an assistant professor in the School of Religion. 

]]>
Thu, 15 May 2014 13:25:52 -0700
4264:16423 <![CDATA[Unveiling: 'This Is the Very Place']]> “This Is the Very Place” will be unveiled and dedicated Saturday, May 24, atop the Nichol Hall hill. This will be the newest faith-based sculpture on campus.

The sculpture remembers the unwavering faith and obedience to the call of the Lord by Ellen White and John Burden in founding Loma Linda University Health, and it will serve as a reminder to further God’s plans for the future of the organization.

The ceremony takes place at 3:30 p.m., and all are invited to come. Members of the White and Burden families will be in attendance.

The sculpture captures Ellen White and her son Willie’s first visit to the future campus in 1905 to meet John Burden, who two weeks earlier had put a $1,000 deposit to hold the bankrupt property that had recently been renamed Loma Linda, meaning “beautiful hill.”

While viewing the buildings and grounds, Ellen White said, “Willie, I have been here before.” 

He responded, “No, Mother. You have never been here.” 

“Then this is the very place the Lord has shown me, for it is all familiar,” she answered. 

Although White had never been to Loma Linda before, she recognized the property as the very place she had seen in vision nearly four years earlier.

Emphasizing the need to move forward with the purchase of the land, she told the group, “We must have this place. We should reason from cause to effect. The Lord has not given us this property for any common purpose.”

 

]]>
Thu, 15 May 2014 13:06:46 -0700
4264:16421 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- Over the seas]]> Heather Reifsnyder In 1979, an urgent relief effort was needed in Vietnam for refugees from the neighboring country of Cambodia. Our three random winners who correctly answered what country the displaced individuals came from are Kathy Haimson, Kelsey Zuppan, and Anita L. Lilly. Please send an e-mail to pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

LLU students, alumni, and friends responded to the need. On December 2, 1979, a group of medical and public health professionals traveled to Thailand to provide health care in cooperation with Seventh-day Adventist World Service.

Also in Vietnam, five years earlier, the Loma Linda University Overseas Heart Surgery Team performed the country’s first-ever open-heart surgery. This team, founded in 1963 by Drs. Joan Coggin and Ellsworth Wareham, travels to underserved countries in order to both perform needed operations and train local physicians in the art of cardiac surgery.

To what country did the Overseas Heart Surgery Team make its first trip in 1963?

The team visited numerous countries such as Zimbabwe, Nepal, North Korea, Greece, and Saudi Arabia.

E-mail your answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, May 20, for a chance to win.  

 

]]>
Thu, 15 May 2014 13:00:26 -0700
4264:16420 <![CDATA[Notes from the President]]> Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   May 2014
China

By any standard, China is impressive today. With its 1.3 billion people, dozens of crowded cities, and forests of apartment buildings reaching the sky—and requiring huge investments in infrastructure—this country is preparing for the future. While we build 100-bed hospitals, they build 1,000-bed hospitals. In fact they have driven up the price of cement worldwide due to their insatiable demand for construction.

And yet, for those who have the privilege of visiting China, it is not their impressive size or growth, not their international press coverage, and not even their development or exports that distinguishes China today. It is surely the gracious attitude, the always solicitous approach to strangers, that one remembers after each visit.

Loma Linda’s connections with China go back 100 years to when we first started sending graduates to this great country. Dr. Harry Miller, actually a graduate of John Harvey Kellogg’s American Medical Missionary College, the predecessor to Loma Linda University, was only one of many who went to China. His lifelong commitment to China eventually earned him the sobriquet “China Doctor.” During the decades he spent there, he invented soymilk to combat childhood malnutrition, built some 20 Adventist hospitals, and treated thousands of patients. All that was lost, or so we thought, during the Great March when Mao Tse Tung moved across the country with his doctrine of atheistic Communism.

So when feelers first started surfacing in the late 1980s about returning to China, they were viewed with some caution. Secret visits by Communist Party leaders, high level discussions with church leaders, and offers of financial assistance from Sir Run Run Shaw, a Hong Kong movie mogul with roots in China, finally convinced Loma Linda leadership that this was a real offer, a once in a lifetime opportunity that should at least be attempted. Recognition needs to go to Neal Wilson, Lyn Behrens, David Hinshaw Sr. and others who were able to see the potential and accept the risks involved. While China seems relatively “open” today, it was not 25 years ago, when worship was done behind locked apartment doors and one always wondered who was listening.

And so a relationship began, one that has surely had bumps along the way, times when we all wondered whether we could continue, whether we should continue. But challenges were overcome, acceptance and trust developed, and the Loma Linda University–Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital partnership is envied today across China and indeed across all of Asia.

A number of us have just spent two glorious days celebrating the 20th anniversary of the opening of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital (an affiliate of Zhejiang University), now a 1,200-bed marvel of both modern technology and compassionate patient care. As I listened to the stories of all those from our side who have spent years on the ground, gently mentoring and establishing a new health care culture at Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, it was clear that this was no ordinary relationship. With hugs and tears, friendships forged through cultural misunderstandings and long discussions had matured into mutual respect and love. Chinese and American counterparts in management, nursing, medicine, teaching and research who had worked together through the years were reunited once again during these precious few days.

This unique partnership continues, spearheaded by the LLUH Global Health Institute and the Center for International Collaboration at Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital. Kudos go to Jan Zumwalt at the Global Health Institute for leading the effort for many years, assisted by Bing Frazier. More than 300 staff members from Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital have come to Loma Linda for short- and long-term mentorship rotations in all conceivable areas of making a modern hospital effective. What is so impressive is how they have captured the soft, often subtle, culture of Loma Linda—our values of compassion and integrity, of understanding and acceptance of suffering and death, of sharing hope and keeping promises with both staff and patients. The focus is now shifting more to education, of neutralizing the gap between professor and student, encouraging mentoring and practice.

Lady Mona Shaw was there for the celebrations, representing her husband, who recently died at 106. Party figures and church leaders sat side by side as the incredible journey of the past 20 years was recounted. The accomplishments of Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital are legion, recognized now by the central government and sister institutions who all want to develop the “Shaw” model of hospital leadership. Even worship is now more open, with four Adventist churches full of about 550 young and old meeting regularly in the city of Hangzhou. Six nursing staff members from Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital and Zhejiang University Children’s Hospital have completed the LLU master’s degree in nursing off-campus program in Thailand. Two nurses from Zhejiang Province are now pursuing doctoral degrees from LLU School of Nursing. Loma Linda University is displayed in bold letters on the front of the building and even the seal of the hospital recognizes its two “parents”—Zhejiang Medical University and Loma Linda University.

So where do we go now? We have spent hours discussing that, both on this side of the water and while in Hangzhou. Opportunities abound to continue and grow. Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital leadership now manages Xiasha Hospital, a new 1,200-bed hospital built in another part of the city by the local government. The Zhejiang University Children’s Hospital is being expanded, adding to its 850 beds with a whole new complex and an additional 800+ beds and outpatient facilities to match. The size of these institutions is always amazing, but necessary in this city of nearly nine million, with many more patients coming from the province and countryside for specialized care.

To date, our efforts have been focused on strengthening these government facilities. They are not dependent on us and clearly are ready to grow and thrive on their own. Should we respond to the many other requests from government hospitals to help them, to recreate the Sir Run Run Shaw model for them? Or is it possible now to consider something that is even more identified with Loma Linda, sharing our unique values and perspectives even more fully? We certainly have “brand” recognition and a solid reputation in the country. What is the best way to proceed for the future?

Those discussions will continue, even as we maintain our special relationship with Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital. Right now it is time to recognize and celebrate a very unique partnership that has been able to transcend political and cultural boundaries. I want to personally thank the nearly 1,000 faculty, staff, students, alumni, and friends who have invested their time and energy in this endeavor. Your impact is being felt by millions as the lessons learned are replicated across China. This type of relationship is what makes Loma Linda so special and unique. Money can’t buy this. Politics can’t mandate it. It comes from the heart, and can only be nurtured in a culture of love and respect. You have made this happen, and both Loma Linda and China are indebted to you.

Office of the President, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350

Copyright © 2014 by Loma Linda University

llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 15 May 2014 12:55:17 -0700
4264:16403 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- Knee knowledge]]> Nancy Yuen Even if you’re not an athlete, knee strain or sprain can take you out of the game for a while.

To avoid knee injury and the long recovery process, the best strategy is prevention. 

Here are some tips to help spare your knees:

  • Strength training and gentle stretching can help stabilize the knees.
  • Cross-train. Overuse and constant repetition can cause knee injuries, so choose a wide range of exercises. In addition to strength training, others include walking up stairs and riding a bike.
  • Watch for clues such as fatigue or knee pain that let you know you should rest.
  • Wear running shoes with adequate cushioning; if the padding has worn down, it’s time to replace them.
  • While running, avoid coming to a quick stop.
  • Tread lightly; don’t “pound the ground.” 
  • Don’t bend your knees past 90 degrees when doing bends or squats.

Source: 2014 LLUH “Live it” health and wellness calendar

 

]]>
Thu, 15 May 2014 11:28:54 -0700
4264:16254 <![CDATA[Thanks to nurses for leading the way]]> It is National Nurses Week and time to say thank you. As author Stephen Ambrose puts it, "It would not be possible to praise nurses too highly."

]]>
Thu, 08 May 2014 13:32:58 -0700
4264:16252 <![CDATA[Serving the displaced]]> Heather Reifsnyder The Loma Linda Sanitarium and Hospital in the building today known as Nichol Hall served the community for almost forty years before patients and staff moved into the new and current medical center on July 9, 1967. 

Two years later, the building reopened with the name Francis D. Nichol Hall and became the home of the School of Allied Health Professions and the School of Public Health—although the former was known as the School of Health Related Professions at the time. Many of your guesses were close, but only a handful correctly answered 1969 as the year these schools took occupancy of the building. Of those, the three random winners are Ashley Weddel, Lisa Stuck, and Kristina Larios. Please e-mail pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days. 

Turning to a matter far, far way, but taking place in the same year, a team of medical and public health professionals left Loma Linda University left in December 1969 to aid a massive refugee relief effort in Thailand. What country were the displaced persons from? E-mail the answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, May 13, for a chance to win.   

]]>
Thu, 08 May 2014 13:30:27 -0700
4264:16249 <![CDATA[Bonded by kidney donation]]> Herbert Atienza Four Southern California residents who share an improbable bond of kidney donation met for the first time April 30 at an inspiring event hosted by Loma Linda University Health to honor living kidney donors.

Ivan Vasquez, 31, of Los Angeles, wanted to donate one his kidneys to Haing Yun, 67, of Rancho Cucamonga, a patient at Loma Linda University Medical Center whom he considered to be like a second mother. Unfortunately, they did not match for organ donation purposes.

Meanwhile, Nichole Hurtado-Silva, 40, of Bakersfield, wanted to donate a kidney to her cousin, Yvonne Hurtado, 38, of Ventura, a patient at UCLA Medical Center. But they, too, were incompatible for organ donation.

In a unique “loop paired kidney exchange” program overseen by medical teams from Loma Linda University Medical Center and UCLA Medical Center, the four found matching kidney donors and recipients among them. Through the kidney exchange, Vasquez donated a kidney to Hurtado, and Hurtado-Silva donated a kidney to Yun.

All are now doing well, and met for the first time at the second annual “Gift of Life” Living Donor Award ceremony, hosted by Loma Linda University Medical Center Transplantation Institute. The four were introduced before more than 140 people, including other 2013 kidney donor/recipient pairs, at the gathering held in Riverside, where the living kidney donors were honored with awards.

“Our living kidney donors are the true heroes, because their selfless act has resulted in saving the life of another person,” said Pedro Baron, MD, kidney transplant surgeon at Loma Linda University Medical Center. He said a vast majority of patients succumb to their illness while waiting to receive an organ transplant.

According to Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN), more than 107,000 patients are currently waiting for a kidney transplant.

Ivan Vasquez had known Haing Yun as a co-worker at a clothing company in Los Angeles, and they have formed a bond. “She cooked food for me and brought food for us to share,” he said. He said Yun started becoming sick, and confided that she was planning to leave California because of the long wait for a kidney transplant. He told her she did not need to move because he was willing to donate his kidney.

“It’s an amazing feeling knowing that you made a difference in someone else’s life,” Vasquez said. Yun replied, “We were close before, but we’re even closer now.”

Yvonne Hurtado had been on dialysis for 10 years and her chances of receiving a kidney transplant were diminishing. Her cousin, Nichole Hurtado-Silva, has six children, was about to be married, and was planning to relocate shortly from Ventura to Bakersfield, where she was going to start a new job. But she could not bear the thought of her cousin’s health further deteriorating without her taking action.

“I feel I was just an instrument used by God to save a life,” Nichole Hurtado-Silva said. Yvonne Hurtado expressed gratefulness to her cousin and her donor “for giving me a chance at life.”

]]>
Thu, 08 May 2014 13:21:04 -0700
4264:16247 <![CDATA[OASIS -- A day of renewal]]> Heather Reifsnyder The department of employee spiritual care has designed a one-day retreat for employees to experience renewal and celebrate creativity.

Taking place Thursday, May 29, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., the retreat will focus on “Designing Your Canvas: Living a Life of Creativity,” and it aims to strengthen both work and home life.

All employees are invited.

The day’s plenary sessions speakers will be Carla Gober-Park, PhD, MS, MPH, director of the LLU Center for Spiritual Life & Wholeness; Hazel Curtis, MPH, director of talent development at LLU Medical Center–Murrieta, and Ernie Medina, DrPH, executive director of LLU’s Center for Nutrition, Healthy Lifestyle & Disease Prevention.

A variety of breakout sessions are also on the day’s agenda.

The day is specifically designed to help participants:

• Develop a professional and personal framework for creativity,
• Discuss the artistic and scientific connections of creativity, and
• Explore the application of creativity in the work setting.

The retreat is $25, including light breakfast, lunch, and two continuing education hours. It will take place at the Azure Hills Seventh-day Adventist Church in Grand Terrace. 

Register on the OWL portal at http://myllu.llu.edu/owl.

 

]]>
Thu, 08 May 2014 13:15:40 -0700
4264:16245 <![CDATA[In the know: graduation schedule]]>  

]]>
Thu, 08 May 2014 13:11:36 -0700
4264:16243 <![CDATA[Why separate licensure?]]> Wondering why separate licensure is being sought for LLU Children's Hospital? In this video, Dr. Richard Chinnock, physician-in-chief at the Children’s Hospital and professor and chair of pediatrics, explains how it will benefit the children LLUH serves.

http://vip.mc.llumc.edu/vip/Departments/LLUCH-Departments/CH-Separate-Licensure/Video.page

]]>
Thu, 08 May 2014 13:04:43 -0700
4264:16237 <![CDATA[Campus safari]]> Heather Reifsnyder Animals from Africa and Asia came to campus May 6 as part of the San Diego Zoo Safari Park Tour, bringing their trainers with them to talk about each creature and share the news of the May 24 opening of the park’s Tiger Trail habitat.

A crowd of about 1,000 children and adults came to the exhibit to see:

• A cheetah named Shiley
• An Anatolian shepherd dog named Yeti
• A serval named Bella
• A Eurasian Eagle owl named Julio, and
• A Burmese python named Julius Squeezer. 

This is the second annual visit by the San Diego Zoo, which last year came to Loma Linda University Health in promotion of the Conrad Prebys Australian Outback exhibit.

 

]]>
Thu, 08 May 2014 12:55:11 -0700
4264:16232 <![CDATA[Symphony under the sky]]> Larry Kidder It’s close to becoming an annual tradition at Loma Linda University Health. For the second year in a row, members of the LLUH family and the community gathered for an afternoon of great symphonic music, accompanied by blue sky and cool breezes.

Titled “Master Works,” the afternoon concert on Sunday, May 4, featured works by Russians Pyotr (Peter) Ilyich Tchaikovsky and Sergei Rachmaninoff, performed by the San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra.

Under the direction of Frank Fetta, the orchestra shared the same music from its final ticketed performance the night before. The free Sunday afternoon concert drew an audience of close to 1,000, sitting in chairs or on blankets under canopies.

Tchaikovsy’s Symphony No. 5 has been compared to Ludwig van Beethoven’s fifth symphony, largely because both move from tragedy to triumph. The opening theme is heard in each of the four movements—beginning in the minor key and concluding in a major key. A memorable horn solo in the second “Andante Cantabile” is a recognizable theme even to the untrained ear.

Sergei Rachmaninoff is among the best-known performer-composers in musical history. His unusually large hands and dexterity allowed him to compose some of the most challenging works in piano literature. Arguably, his Piano Concerto No. 3 is the most difficult piano concerto ever written.

Nationally and internationally acclaimed piano soloist Norman Krieger joined the San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra for the third concerto by Rachmaninoff, affectionately known in music circles as the “Rach 3” (pronounced rock).

Buffeted at times by cool afternoon breezes, the orchestra moved its audience with expertise and inspiration, supporting LLUH’s “Live It” theme of wholeness by adding music and relaxation to one’s life in order to live more fully.

The performance was dedicated to the memory of Nancy (Woods) Bricard and Duke Hill. Sponsors included San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, The James Irvine Foundation, Ann & Gordon Getty Foundation, Art Works, and the San Bernardino Symphony Guild.

]]>
Thu, 08 May 2014 12:33:18 -0700
4264:16230 <![CDATA[Hours left to Give BIG]]> Today, Give BIG San Bernardino County is hosting a 24-hour online giving campaign allowing the community to support selected causes in the county. Their goal is to raise a minimum of $300,000 in 24 hours.

The Children’s Hospital Foundation is excited to share that it is a selected cause and asks for help to make the campaign a success. The 24-hour period ends at 6:59 a.m. Friday.

To learn more about giving big today to create tomorrow’s healthy kids, visit http://givebigsbcounty.razoo.com/story/LLUCHF

]]>
Thu, 08 May 2014 12:25:44 -0700
4264:16227 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- Home cooking]]> While eating out can be enjoyable, just one restaurant meal can fulfill nearly 70 percent of a person’s daily calorie needs. 

A fun way to “Live It” is to cook at home. Planning and preparing meals makes it possible to have complete control over how many calories the whole family eats.

Here are several tips to get started.

  • Start small by preparing one meal at home each week
  • Enjoy browsing recipe categories and healthy recipes on the LLUH employee wellness program site: http://bit.ly/1jkX8bY. The site lists nutritional content including calories, sodium, and cholesterol levels.
  • Design your plate. Half of each plate should contain vegetables and fruit; fill up the rest of the plate with three to four ounces of lean protein and one half to one cup of whole grains.
  • Add flavor while lowering calories, fat, and sodium by buying produce when it is in season and by adding herbs and spices instead of salt.
  • Stock up on dried fruit, whole-grain pasta, and frozen vegetables.
  • Cook a substantial meal on Sunday and freeze portions to eat during the week.

Source: 2014 ‘Live It’ 2014 LLUH health and wellness calendar

]]>
Thu, 08 May 2014 12:01:48 -0700
4264:16189 <![CDATA[Trivia -- Repurposing ]]> Heather Reifsnyder In addition to a 64-room health hotel, the original proprietors of the hill known as Loma Linda built several guest cottages that were as well furnished and equipped as the main building. They have since been used to house everything from patients and students to offices and clinics. 

Three of these cottages remain today on the crest of the hill east of Nichol Hall.   

The question last week was how many of the cottages stood originally when Seventh-day Adventists purchased the property in 1905 and created the organization we now call Loma Linda University Health.

Though several more cottages were added and later torn down through the years (including the recently departed Buena Vista building), the original cottages numbered five. The three random correct guessers are Elisabeth Clarke, Gerald Grube, and Krystal Sky Gheen. Please send an e-mail to pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

Two of those five were torn down in 1949 to make room for the east wing of the Loma Linda Sanitarium—known today as Nichol Hall. In what year did Nichol Hall become the home of the School of Public Health and School of Allied Health Professions? 

Please send the answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, May 6, for the chance to be a random winner. 

]]>
Thu, 01 May 2014 13:07:36 -0700
4264:16187 <![CDATA[Let the music take you away]]> Heather Reifsnyder The campus mall of Loma Linda University Health will be transformed into a concert venue for the San Bernardino Symphony on Sunday, May 4 at 5:00 p.m.

Conducted by Frank Fetta, the symphony will perform Tchaikovsky’s “Symphony No. 5” and Rachmaninoff’s “Piano Concerto No. 3.” Guest piano soloist Norman Krieger will perform during the latter.

The Tchaikovsky piece carries listeners through the full experience of the human condition—from sadness to celebration, from tragedy to triumph.

 

The Rachmaninoff concerto requires exquisite skill to perform; it is often said to be the most difficult piece of music ever written for piano.

 

A native of Los Angeles and trained at the Julliard School, piano soloist Krieger regularly performs with major orchestras throughout North America. He has also appeared as a guest soloist with orchestras in Hong Kong, the Czech Republic, Turkey, New Zealand, and Taiwan.

The performance will take place on the campus mall between Prince Hall and the Loma Linda University Church. Chairs will be available on a first-come first-served basis. It is suggested that guests bring a blanket to sit on.

The concert is free and open to the public. Picnics are welcome, and vendors will be on site offering food and drinks.

 

 

 

]]>
Thu, 01 May 2014 13:03:05 -0700
4264:16185 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- In the moment]]> Heather Reifsnyder & Nancy Yuen Health tip of the week

Be mindful

It’s too easy to live life without truly experiencing it—to worry about the past, or fret about the future, rather than living in the moment. Slow down. Concentrate on present experiences, surroundings, and sensations rather than anxieties.

“It is important to spend some time planning for the future and solving problems,” says John Testerman, MD, PhD, recently retired chair of the LLUH family medicine department. “However, most of us spend too much time ruminating over past mistakes, worrying about the future, fretting about situations or events we can do nothing about at the moment, or anticipating some future moment which we imagine will be better than the present one.  

“In the meantime,” he says, “we are missing life, which always and only occurs right here, right now.”

Mindfulness meditation is one way to develop the ability to live in the present while letting go of extra anxieties. Research findings are demonstrating that mindfulness meditation improves well-being, sleep, and empathy, as well as decreases burnout, stress, anxiety, and depression. It is taught at more than 300 medical centers nationally because of its positive effects on mental and physical health. 

Testerman hosts a free weekly mindfulness training and practice group from 5:30 to 6:15 p.m. on Wednesdays in the Meridian Conference Room in the LLUMC East Campus administration building. 

Loma Linda University Health staff, students, and faculty are welcome. There is no cost to attend.

“By learning to recognize when our minds have been distracted by unhelpful thoughts and choosing to come back to the present, we can better focus on the task at hand, become aware of the subtle beauty and blessings which surround us, and be more present to those we love,” Testerman says.

For more information, e-mail jtesterman@llu.edu.

“Be happy in the moment, that's enough. Each moment is all we need, not more.”  –Mother Teresa

]]>
Thu, 01 May 2014 12:59:57 -0700
4264:16183 <![CDATA[Love felt in tragedy]]> Advancement films ]]> Experience a devotional meditation come to life in this video portrayal of the January 12 entry of “Evening Rounds,” the LLU School of Medicine’s devotional book written by students, alumni, faculty, and friends of the school. This story recounts how orthopedic surgeon Scott Nelson saw God’s love even in the midst of the countless medical emergencies following the Haiti earthquake of 2010.

]]>
Thu, 01 May 2014 12:52:25 -0700
4264:16181 <![CDATA[Weekend traffic advisory]]> The San Bernardino Associated Governments (SANBAG) and project partners are working together to widen the I-10 eastbound Tippecanoe Avenue/Anderson Street off-ramp to a two-lane exit, expanding to four lanes at the intersection; adding an eastbound auxiliary lane; and making drainage improvements.

To facilitate construction, the eastbound off-ramp will be closed from 10:00 p.m. on Friday, May 2, through 6:00 a.m. Saturday, May 3.

On Saturday, May 3, from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., only the right two lanes of the eastbound off-ramp will be closed.

]]>
Thu, 01 May 2014 12:47:36 -0700
4264:16179 <![CDATA[Acknowledging what we can accomplish together]]> A message from the corporate compliance department:

May 4 – 10 is Corporate Compliance & Ethics Week at Loma Linda University Health.

The week is an acknowledgement of all we can accomplish together as a team. 

This week is dedicated to you and the steps that you take each and every day to live our mission, vision and values. Every day we demonstrate Compassion when we provide quality care to our patients with dignity and respect without regard to status. We respect patient autonomy, and we always want to do what is right and provide medically necessary care. 

Whether in service to our patients, colleagues, or community, we fully embrace Integrity in making the right decisions even when there is a tough decision to be made. Integrity is our ethical and moral compass upon which we rely to avoid conflicts of interest or any dealings that might negatively affect, alter, or influence our decision-making. If we are unsure about the right action to take, we stop and ask questions. 

We each have a reputation to uphold; and, we hold in high esteem our institution’s world-class reputation. We strive for process Excellence in all that we do, integrating key quality, financial, regulatory, and compliance drivers into process design to achieve desired results. 

We continuously strive to get things done right the first time and solid Teamwork helps keep us accountable and going strong.  

Doing things right with a commitment to excellence sometimes takes more time and fortitude than doing things wrong. It is good to know that just when we need it the most, there is rest, healing, and rejuvenation in Wholeness.

Thank you for all you do from your partners in compliance.

Celebrating who we are…

Corporate compliance department: http://vip.mc.llumc.edu/vip/Departments/LLUHS-Departments/Compliance/Index.page.

]]>
Thu, 01 May 2014 12:44:36 -0700
4264:16177 <![CDATA[Unhealthful air quality forecast ]]> From www.aqmd.gov:

The South Coast Air Quality Management District has issued a smoke and windblown dust advisory today for portions of western San Bernardino and Riverside counties and eastern Los Angeles County. Air quality may reach the Unhealthy range or higher in these areas due to the Etiwanda Fire. In addition, gusty winds may cause elevated concentrations of fine particulates known as PM10 in affected areas.

Strong Santa Ana winds are predicted to increase this morning and continue through this afternoon, bringing the possibility of increased smoke production from the fire. The winds have caused elevated levels of PM10 in many areas across the region, with the highest concentrations occurring in the Inland Empire.

All individuals are urged to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary outdoor activities in any area directly impacted by smoke. This includes areas where residents can see or smell smoke.

In any area impacted by smoke:

Everyone should avoid any vigorous outdoor or indoor exertion; people with respiratory or heart disease, the elderly, and children should remain indoors. Keep windows and doors closed or seek alternate shelter. Run your air conditioner if you have one. Do not use a swamp cooler or whole-house fan to prevent bringing additional smoke inside. To avoid worsening the health effects of wildfire smoke, don’t use indoor or outdoor wood-burning appliances, including fireplaces.

For anyone not able to avoid a smoky area, a special N95 or P100 respirator mask worn properly may help protect against the fine particles in smoke. Paper or surgical masks do not protect the wearer from smoke. To learn more on how to properly wear a special respirator mask and help protect from wildfire smoke, go to

http://www.arb.ca.gov/videos/impacts_of_smoke.htm and http://www.arb.ca.gov/carpa/toolkit/data-to-mes/wildfire-smoke-guide.pdf.

To subscribe to air quality alerts, advisories and forecasts by e-mail, go to AirAlerts.org.

To view current air quality conditions by region in an interactive map, see http://www3.aqmd.gov/webappl/gisaqi2/home.aspx.

For more tips on avoiding health impacts from smoke, see http://www.aqmd.gov/ej/CAC/wildfire_safety_tips.htm on SCAQMD’s website.

SCAQMD is the air pollution control agency for Orange County and major portions of Los Angeles, San Bernardino and Riverside counties.

]]>
Thu, 01 May 2014 12:34:03 -0700
4264:16175 <![CDATA[Community health fair this weekend]]> Thu, 01 May 2014 12:31:09 -0700 4264:16173 <![CDATA[National media covers LLUH laughter studies]]> Herbert Atienza and Nancy Yuen Experiencing joyful laughter reduces stress hormones, lowers blood pressure, and elevates a person’s mood. Loma Linda University Health (LLUH) is a strong advocate for “Living It,” and LLUH research continues to add to the known health benefits of mirthful laughter.

The world is interested—two recent LLUH studies have been picked up by major news outlets. A study on laughter and meditation was covered by media outlets including CBS news on April 28, found at http://www.cbsnews.com/news/laughter-may-work-like-meditation-in-the-brain/; and a second study that showed laughter increases short-term memory was picked up by news media including by ABC news:http://abcnews.go.com/Health/laughing-makes-brain-work-study-finds/story?id=23393053.

“Good Morning America” aired a segment highlighting results of the LLUH study on memory showing that laughing for 20 minutes can help improve memory in healthy, older adults. “Learning ability and delayed recall become more challenging as we age,” lead author Gurinder S. Bains, MD, shared. “Laughing with friends or watching 20 minutes of humor on TV, as I do daily, helps me cope with my daily stressors.”

The study is titled “The effect of humor on short-term memory in older adults: a new component for whole-person wellness.” According to Lee Berk, DrPH, MPH, associate professor, LLU School of Allied Health Professions, and associate research professor, pathology and human anatomy, LLU School of Medicine, the act of laughing increases endorphins, sending dopamine to the brain. This provides a sense of pleasure and reward, and the immune system also functions better.

Laughter reduces stress, say the researchers, and as one’s stress is lowered, memory improves. This has tremendous implications for older adults who may be experiencing age-associated memory deficiencies, as medical practitioners now can offer enjoyable and beneficial humor therapies for these deficiencies.

The second LLUH study was presented in late April at the Experimental Biology 2014 conference in San Diego. As researchers measured subjects’ brain wave activity, they discovered that humor associated with mirthful laughter sustains high-amplitude gamma-band oscillations -- gamma is the only frequency found in all parts of the brain.

“When there is mirthful laughter,” continues Berk, “it’s as if the brain gets a workout because the gamma wave band is in sync with multiple other areas of the brain that are in the same 30-40 hertz frequency. This allows for thinking more clearly and having more integrative thoughts. This is of value to individuals who need or want to revisit, reorganize, or rearrange various aspects of their lives or experiences to make them feel whole or more focused.”

Subsequent findings revealed that while watching spiritual videos, subjects experienced significant levels of alpha brain wave bands, similar to those of a person at rest; and while watching distressful videos, subjects experienced flat brain wave bands across the board similar to those of people who feel detached, non-responsive, or would rather not be in the situation.

“Laughter may not only be good medicine for the health of your body, but may also be good medicine for your brain,” Berk says.

The world is listening, as major news outlets throughout the United States continue to relay the good news.

]]>
Thu, 01 May 2014 10:42:21 -0700
4264:16111 <![CDATA[Notes from the President ]]> Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   April 2014
The End of an Era

Hospital leadership in today’s world is always challenging, particularly in California. A leader’s influence and legacy lasts long into the future. Ruthita Fike has served Loma Linda University Medical Center well as the CEO of our hospital system for 10 years. As she now prepares to step down from that role, I want to recognize her significant contribution in helping establish what we know as Loma Linda University Health System today. This hospital network has grown to six individual hospitals under her guidance, each with a carefully focused purpose and strategy. Let me comment on each of these institutions and the legacy Ruthita will leave with us.

Our current Medical Center, the clover-leaf towers completed in 1967, was designated some years ago as the University Hospital, serving primarily adult patients. At that time the adjoining Children’s Hospital was given an identity of its own. Ruthita is now leading the effort to obtain a separate licensure for the Children’s Hospital as the next step in its full establishment, which we hope to accomplish before she leaves in July.

Moving down Barton Road toward Redlands from the main hospital, the East Campus includes the old Loma Linda Community Hospital, an adjoining large outpatient facility, and the new Tom & Vi Zapara Rehabilitation Pavilion, with 24 state-of-the-art patient rooms. This campus, with its beautiful landscaping and children’s park, has been designated the Rehabilitation, Orthopedic, and Neurosciences Institute, or RONI. The physician groups working there include physical medicine and rehabilitation, orthopedics, and neurosurgery. Together their clinical services have been integrated to provide innovative therapies for all rehabilitation needs.

Another mile further east on Barton Road is our new Heart & Surgical Hospital. Purchased in 2008 from a group of investors as the building was nearing completion, this 28-bed, high-tech hospital now houses our two da Vinci robotic surgical units. The surgeons work remotely from a computer screen, with their instruments inserted through several small slits in the skin, rather than an open incision. This greatly speeds recovery time and enhances patient satisfaction. Used by various surgical specialties, particularly urology, head and neck, and gynecology, the Heart and Surgical Hospital receives some of our highest patient accolades for its superb services and caring staff.

Less than a mile further down Barton Road, now in Redlands city limits, is our Behavioral Medicine Center. It is one of only two psychiatric hospitals in the Inland Empire, and the only one that accepts children. With the new Behavioral Health Institute outpatient building next door, Loma Linda now has one of the most comprehensive mental health units in the country, offering integrated patient services and quality training for our students in psychology, counseling, social work, and the physician residents in psychiatry. This facility treats a wide spectrum of diseases, including various addictions, eating disorders, self-harm, depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns.

If you now head east on I-10 toward Palm Springs, you will come to our new Highland Springs Medical Plaza. Just south of the freeway in Beaumont, this facility is operated in conjunction with Redlands Community Hospital and the Beaver Medical Group. It includes an ambulatory surgery center, imaging center, and a medical office building. It serves the rapidly growing population in the Beaumont and Banning communities.

Our newest hospital is our Loma Linda University Medical Center–Murrieta, located between Riverside and Escondido on Interstate 215. A 106-bed ultramodern community hospital, Murrieta has quickly gained recognition in that area as a place with quality and caring professionals. It shares some physicians and other staff with Loma Linda, while others are based locally and now use this as their primary hospital.

Back on the main campus, the 800 doctors in our Faculty Medical Group have now merged into one corporation and provide the medical leadership and coverage for these institutions. They provide all medical specialties, with nationally recognized expertise in many subspecialty areas. In addition to their clinical roles, these physicians provide supervision and training for our medical students and 700 physician residents in specialty training.

In addition to these six hospitals and the clinic complex in Beaumont that are owned by Loma Linda, Ruthita has led out in conceptualizing a broader network of community hospitals in the Inland Empire. Though the exact nature of these relationships is still being developed, they will give Loma Linda the ability to anchor an Accountable Care Organization, the new name for the horizontally and vertically integrated systems encouraged by the Affordable Care Act.

Though perhaps less visible, another major contribution to the Loma Linda system that Ruthita has guided is our growing system of Institutes. This designation pulls together all the clinical disciplines around particular disease entities or organ systems, like heart or cancer or transplants. There are now 10 of these focused Institutes on campus, providing more efficient and integrated clinical care in the clinical institutes, or a place to orchestrate institutional priorities like wholeness, global, or community activities in the other institutes.

Though there are many things that Ruthita will be remembered for, developing our regional strategy and health system network will be foremost among them. Through her active leadership roles in the Hospital Association of Southern California and the California Hospital Association, she has also given Loma Linda a recognized place within California’s health care community. Now as we prepare to embark on our campus transformation strategy, with plans to build two new hospitals and expanded clinical services, we are forever grateful for the solid foundation she has built.

Thank you, Ruthita, for helping to define our campus for the future. You will be missed.

Cordially yours,

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President, Loma Linda University Health

Copyright © 2014 by Loma Linda University

llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 24 Apr 2014 13:33:44 -0700
4264:16103 <![CDATA[Tips for living it -- get moving]]> Heather Reifsnyder To quote one of William Faulkner’s characters in Light in August, “My, my. A body does get around.” But too often today, unlike that character, people don’t.

Most people have read the facts about how exercise improves health, so take advantage of simple opportunities to move. Park at the back of the lot and walk. Do a cartwheel. Take the stairs. Dig in the garden. Play with your children. House clean. In some way, make movement a regular part of your day. 

]]>
Thu, 24 Apr 2014 12:51:47 -0700
4264:16101 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- Cottages]]> Heather Reifsnyder Which is the front of the Centennial Complex—the north or south entrance? Responses showed that people are unsure. The answer to last week’s question is that the “Who Touched Me?” sculpture is situated at the northwest entrance of the Centennial Complex. Answers of “in front of” or “behind” or just the building name were all accepted. The random winners are Eva Robledo, David Morris, and Dorothy Donesky. Please e-mail pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up in 60 days.

Last week we also mentioned the May 24 unveiling of the campus’ newest sculpture-to-be, titled “This is the Very Place.” It will be located behind Nichol Hall with the cottages that are original to the property when Seventh-day Adventists purchased it in 1905 to create the organization known today as Loma Linda University Health.

During their approximate 110-year history, the cottages have housed students, patients, families, clinics, professors, and offices. 

But not all of those original cottages still stand today. How many were there originally? E-mail the answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, April 29, for a chance to win. 

]]>
Thu, 24 Apr 2014 12:47:07 -0700
4264:16099 <![CDATA[LLUH to observe National Day of Prayer]]> Thursday, May 1, will be observed across the country as National Day of Prayer. Two events at Loma Linda University Church will allow members of the community and LLUH to join with others across the nation in speaking to the Divine.

Prayer services
Noon – 12:45 p.m.
5:00 – 5:45 pm.
An opportunity to join with others from across campus to worship and pray for our organization and our nation 

Self-guided prayer walk
8:00 – 11:30 a.m.
1:00 – 4:30 p.m.
An interactive prayer journey that will focus on various areas of one’s personal life such as worry, distractions, forgiveness, and grief

“So that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.”  Romans 15:6

]]>
Thu, 24 Apr 2014 12:39:50 -0700
4264:16097 <![CDATA[LLUH to host animals from San Diego Zoo]]> Herbert Atienza Animal ambassadors native to Africa and Asia are expected to awe the crowd as San Diego Zoo’s Safari Park Tour comes to Loma Linda University Health.

The animal presentation is planned for 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 6, on the campus lawn located between the University Church and Prince Hall, 11092 Anderson Street, Loma Linda, 92350. The event is open and free to the public.

“We’re very excited to once again host our friends from San Diego Zoo Safari Park and give our students, employees, and our local friends and families a glimpse of the wonderful creatures that live on our planet,” says Rick Williams, vice president for enrollment management and student services at Loma Linda University Health.

Animal care staff from the Safari Park will present several animals to the public including a cheetah, a serval wildcat, and a Eurasian Eagle owl. (Please note: animals may change.)

During the presentation, trainers will talk about each of the animals they’re presenting and also discuss the May 24 opening of the Tiger Trail habitat at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park in Escondido.

Opportunity drawings will be held at the event for prizes including tickets to San Diego Zoo and Safari Park, and a one-night stay at Comfort Inn and Suites in the Zoo-Sea World area.

Last year, more than 1,000 people turned out for a similar visit by representatives from the San Diego Zoo, promoting the zoo’s Conrad Prebys Australian Outback exhibit. Among the creatures showcased last year were: a koala, red kangaroo, kookaburra, blue-tongued skink, and a cane toad.

]]>
Thu, 24 Apr 2014 12:33:30 -0700
4264:16095 <![CDATA[Center for Christian Bioethics celebrates 30th anniversary]]> The Center for Christian Bioethics will celebrate its 30th anniversary with two lectures by Victoria Sweet, MD, PhD, on April 26.

Sweet—an associate clinical professor of medicine at the University of California, San Francisco—is a medical historian and author of "God's Hotel: A Doctor, A Hospital, and a Pilgrimage to the Heart of Medicine."

Her first lecture, "History of Medicine: On Hildegard of Bingen," will draw on her doctoral research and her second, "Reflections on God's Hotel," will draw on her experiences practicing medicine at San Francisco's Laguna Honda Hospital and Rehabilitation Center.

Admission is free to both lectures, which will be held in the Centennial Complex Damazo Amphitheater. The first begins at 11:30 a.m., and the second at 3:30 p.m.

For more information, e-mail bioethics@llu.edu.

The Center for Christian Bioethics opened its doors in January of 1984 and serves to enhance teaching, research, and service in biomedical ethics and related fields at Loma Linda University Health.

The center’s programs include its Bioethics Grand Rounds held throughout the academic year. It also hosts roundtable discussions and the “Conversations with Authors” interview series.

The center also boasts the Carolyn and Ralph Thompson Library, whose growing collection includes more than 20 journals and nearly 5,000 books. The center’s publications have included the “Update” newsletter and three books, and it has participated in the publication of three others. The latest book is a compilation of the presentations for the 2006 Jack W. Provonsha Lecture Series titled “Physician-Assisted Suicide.”

]]>
Thu, 24 Apr 2014 12:27:21 -0700
4264:16093 <![CDATA[LLUH launches free wellness webinars]]> Heather Reifsnyder Because Loma Linda University Health cares about the health of its students and employees, it is launching a new wellness webinar series as part of risk management’s Living Whole wellness program.

The free 30-minute webinars will take place monthly, with the first session debuting Wednesday, April 30, at 6:00 p.m. The topic will be “Enjoying the Taste of Eating Right” with a focus on sodium intake, presented by registered dietitian Caitlin McKee, MS.

Employees are invited to sign up for the webinar through the OWL Portal at myllu.llu.edu/owl. Click on self-register and search “wellness webinar.” Or call 909-651-4007. A link to the webinar will be sent the day prior to the event.

Future webinars will take place at 6:00 p.m. on the last Wednesday of each month—“Wellness Wednesdays.” 

“We want all employees and students to have the knowledge necessary to be as healthy as possible,” says Olivia Moses, DrPH, administrator of the Living Whole wellness program. “I invite everyone in the LLUH family to join us for these monthly webinars.” 

]]>
Thu, 24 Apr 2014 12:21:54 -0700
4264:16091 <![CDATA[How we are growing together]]> Heather Reifsnyder For the past three weeks, faculty and staff of Loma Linda University Health have been generously signing up to support the organization they believe in during April’s Grow Together employee giving campaign—and the month is not over yet.

So far in April, the 128 employees who have pledged to give back to LLUH through payroll deductions will add more than $36,000 annually—in addition to $91,037 previously committed by employees—to the organization in support of helping patients, students, and the community.

Through Grow Together, employees can support any area or project of Loma Linda University Health. Staff and faculty are invited to think about where their passion lies and consider supporting initiatives that speak to those passions.

Downloadable below is a form to sign up for payroll deductions. Employees may choose any amount to go toward funds or causes they care about. The top 10 funds employees have chosen to support this year, in order of number of gifts, are:

1. Family fund (helps support LLUH employees in times of need)
2. Medical Center unrestricted
3. Children’s Hospital Foundation (including equipment, various units, and other priorities)
4. Vision 2020
5. Behavioral Medicine Center
6. University president’s fund (supports the university’s greatest need)
7. School of Pharmacy
8. LLUMC East Campus
9. Proton therapy research
10. International Heart Institute 

“We recognize and share our gratitude to our employees who strengthen our hospitals, our schools, and the countless people we serve,” says Taylor Khoe-Mupas, manager of annual giving.

Numerous restaurants are offering discounts this month to employees who wear their Grow Together badge clip. Some restaurants have even extended the discount to continue rewarding Grow Together donors. Visit llugrow.org and scroll down to see the list of restaurants.

“Support your passion and join us as we Grow Together,” says Khoe-Mupas.

]]>
Thu, 24 Apr 2014 12:18:53 -0700
4264:15937 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- Campus art history part II]]> Heather Reifsnyder Last week’s question was a difficult one, so today’s will be a little easier.

Only one person correctly answered the two-part question—the distinguished Kelsey Zuppan. Please e-mail pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which you must pick up within 60 days. You rock. … And speaking of rocks, the stone used in the original 1981 “Good Samaritan” sculpture was Indiana limestone. Redone in bronze after smog destroyed the limestone, the sculpture was unveiled for the second time on October 15, 1995.

Several people answered that the bronze version was unveiled in 2010.

In that year, a sculpture was in fact dedicated on campus, but it was “Who Touched Me?” Like “The Good Samaritan,” it was sculpted by Alan Collins. 

The sculpture depicts the story from the Gospels in which a woman is healed simply by touching the hem of Jesus’ garment. 

Where on campus is this sculpture? E-mail the answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, April 22, for a chance to win.

A third campus sculpture is “Come Unto Me” by Victor Issa. Placed by the front entrance to Loma Linda University Medical Center, it depicts Christ’s open welcome to any and all people.

On May 24 at 3:30, a new sculpture called “This is the Very Place” will be unveiled behind Nichol Hall, also by Victor Issa. The sculpture commemorates the moment LLUH founder Ellen White first visited Loma Linda and recognized it as the place she had seen in a vision.

]]>
Thu, 17 Apr 2014 14:00:38 -0700
4264:15935 <![CDATA[Vote for 'Sweet Home Murrieta']]> Heather Reifsnyder “Sweet Home Murrieta,” a music video on proper hand hygiene produced by LLU Medical Center–Murrieta in 2013, has been selected to be part of the APIC 2014 Film Festival. APIC is the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology.

The video is nominated for the People’s Choice Award and will be shown during the conference. The winner will be announced June 9.  

Online voting is now open. Vote here.

Watch “Sweet Home Murrieta:"

The other nominated videos can be seen at http://ac2014.site.apic.org/highlights/film-festival/.

Thank you for helping the video to “go viral” in a good way.

]]>
Thu, 17 Apr 2014 12:44:43 -0700
4264:15933 <![CDATA[The story of Easter]]> Thu, 17 Apr 2014 12:23:34 -0700 4264:15926 <![CDATA[Health information management dept. has new home]]> Isaiah Aguirre The health information management department at the Faculty Medical Offices, suite 2300, has relocated down the hall to suite 2000. 

Why? The new location is more accessible to patients and other customers for release of information.  

Please contact the department at extension 14191 with any questions. 

]]>
Thu, 17 Apr 2014 11:54:40 -0700
4264:15919 <![CDATA[San Bernardino Symphony to perform on campus in May]]> Heather Reifsnyder The campus mall of Loma Linda University Health will be transformed into a concert venue for the San Bernardino Symphony on Sunday, May 4 at 5:00 p.m.

Conducted by Frank Fetta, the symphony will perform Tchaikovsky’s “Symphony No. 5” and Rachmaninoff’s “Piano Concerto No. 3.” Guest piano soloist Norman Krieger will perform during the latter. 

A native of Los Angeles and trained at the Julliard School, Krieger regularly performs with major orchestras throughout North America. He has also been appeared as a guest soloist with orchestras in Hong Kong, the Czech Republic, Turkey, New Zealand, and Taiwan.

The performance will take place on the campus mall between Prince Hall and the Loma Linda University Church. Chairs will be available on a first-come first-served basis. It is suggested that guests bring a blanket to sit on.

The concert is free and open to the public. Picnics are welcome, and vendors will be on site offering food and drinks.

]]>
Thu, 17 Apr 2014 11:38:49 -0700
4264:15916 <![CDATA[An invitation to the 12th annual PossAbilities Triathlon]]> Herbert Atienza Employees, students, and the public are invited to cheer for and compete with more than 1,000 physically challenged and able-bodied athletes at the 12th annual LLUH PossAbilities Triathlon on Sunday, April 27. The triathlon begins at 7:00 a.m. at the Drayson Center.

The event promises family fun—including a total prize payout of $6,000 at the triathlon. To register, visit www.active.com and search for PossAbilities Triathlon.

The PossAbilities Triathlon is presented by the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, who will be presenting a sponsor’s check for $200,000 at the event. It includes a 5K run/walk/roll, a kid’s triathlon, and an adult triathlon with physically challenged athletes competing alongside able-bodied athletes.

This year’s event features popular entertainers Judy and David, award-winning stars of TV and stage known as “Canada’s Sing Along Superstars.” At 10:00 a.m. following the kids’ race, the duo will perform “JiggiJump,” an energetic combination of music, movement, and narrative adventure that inspires children to be physically active.

“We’re excited about the 12th edition of the LLUH PossAbilities Triathlon, which keeps growing every year and is becoming a must-attend event for our physically challenged and able-bodied athletes and friends,” says PossAbilities director Pedro Payne.

“We’re also excited to power up the entertainment portion of the event with the appearance of Judy and David, whose live concert tours have inspired hundreds of thousands of schoolchildren to JiggiJump,” he said.

The annual PossAbilities Triathlon raises funds for PossAbilities, a community outreach program developed by Loma Linda University Medical Center East Campus and supported by founding partner the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians and event sponsors Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP) and Molina Healthcare. PossAbilities’ goal is to offer physically challenged people born with or who have permanent physical challenges a sense of community by offering activities and practical help.

]]>
Thu, 17 Apr 2014 11:35:05 -0700
4264:15911 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- the power of music]]> Nancy Yuen Research is beginning to show that listening to music may result in numerous physical and mental health benefits.

Listening to classical music has been shown to reduce anxiety, increase relaxation, elevate mood, and ease pain. It may even help people eat less.

Additional benefits include improving performance during exercise and speeding up post-workout recovery.

Adding music to one’s life is a great way to Live It. On Sunday, May 4, at 5:00, experience the joy that classical music brings at "MasterWorks," the San Bernardino Symphony concert on the Campus Mall. The free concert is open to the community.

]]>
Thu, 17 Apr 2014 11:27:07 -0700
4264:15819 <![CDATA[Video -- Fund-a-Future]]> Advancement films ]]> Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital helps make dreams come true. Listen as two former patients share their incredible stories.

]]>
Thu, 10 Apr 2014 13:46:09 -0700
4264:15906 <![CDATA[An athlete defies his physical limits]]> Advancement films

]]> The final two episodes of Loma Linda University Health’s national TV show “Life on the Line” are set to air on WORLD Channel starting tomorrow at 6:00 p.m. ET/PT. In the first, a world-class athlete defies his physical limits in “Armed for the Challenge,” while in the second, help arrives along the Amazon jungle for struggling families in “Anchoring Hope.” Watch the “Armed for the Challenge” trailer here. For more information visit www.lifeontheline.tv

]]> Wed, 16 Apr 2014 18:32:56 -0700
4264:15817 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- a parable comes to life]]> Heather Reifsnyder Last week’s question asked when the opening ceremonies were held for the Del E. Webb Memorial Library and Randall Visitors Center (now called Randall Amphitheater). The answer is 1981—August 24 specifically. David Brandon

Lori Lawson, and Trish Hughes are our three random winners. Please send an e-mail to pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days. 

Near the library and also dating to 1981 is the Good Samaritan sculpture, which is a visual representation of Jesus’ parable about the Samaritan who disregarded common prejudices of the day to help a fellow man in need. It was sculpted by Alan Collins and donated by Reuben Matiko, MD, class of 1945, LLU School of Medicine.

The stone sculpture, which took more than four years to complete, was unveiled May 3, 1981. Due to the ravages of Southern California smog, the sculpture deteriorated over time and was eventually reconstructed in bronze.

Today’s question is two-part. What year was the bronze version unveiled, and what type of stone had it originally been made of?  

Send the answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, April 15, for a chance to win.

Here are some words from history about the Good Samaritan sculpture.

“The visual arts comprise one of the most effective ways to communicate spiritual concepts, and of these sculpture is the most permanent. Since May 3, 1981, the campus of Loma Linda University has been enhanced by an impressive four-figure sculpture depicting the familiar parable of the Good Samaritan. This is a story of the alchemy of heart, mind and hands, which unfolded as the ‘Good Samaritan,’ emerging from concept to completed masterwork. By day and by night it speaks eloquently to students, practitioners of the healing arts and others who come to worship in the nearby church.

"The Good Samaritan is particularly relevant to the University, whose motto is
‘To Make Man Whole.’ It is the will of the sculptor, Professor Alan Collins, that his interpretation of this parable not only provide an aesthetic experience through the form but, more importantly, point people to Christ as the supreme example of compassion."

–Jean Stewart Boyd, MD, class of 1931, LLU School of Medicine

]]>
Thu, 10 Apr 2014 13:02:29 -0700
4264:15815 <![CDATA[What motivates a giver?]]> Heather Reifsnyder After spending the first five weeks of her newborn’s life in the NICU department, Crystal gives back in thanks for the care she and Bradley received. “This is our opportunity to help [future] families and bring them comfort when they are caring for their little one. This is our way of saying ‘thank you,’” she explains.

There are numerous reasons why Loma Linda University Health employees like Crystal give back to the organization. “Many may not realize the influence they have on their colleagues when they support Grow Together,” says Taylor Khoe-Mupas, manager of the program.

Grow Together is the annual employee giving campaign, which is taking place this month.

“I invite you to read what makes your peers passionate about Grow Together and perhaps you will be inspired to join their efforts as well,” Khoe-Mupas says.

To learn more about Crystal and many more employee stories, visit https://advancement.lluhealth.org/grow-together/impact-stories.

Through Grow Together, employees can choose to give back to Loma Linda University Health through payroll deductions, and they can direct their gift toward any part or program of the organization.

For more information, call (909) 558-5358 or send an e-mail to growtogether@llu.edu. Also visit the website at llugrow.org.

For the duration of the campaign, some local restaurants are offering discounts to payroll-deduction donors who wear their Grow Together badge clip. The list can be found at llugrow.org.

]]>
Thu, 10 Apr 2014 12:36:55 -0700
4264:15812 <![CDATA[Fire-extinguisher training schedule for second quarter]]> Heather Reifsnyder Hands-on fire extinguisher training is required for all employees every three years. Employees who delay in completing this course may see it reflected in their annual performance evaluation.

The second-quarter training schedule is available on the environmental health & safety website at http://vip.mc.llumc.edu/vip/Departments/LLUHS-Departments/Environmental-Health-and-Safety/Training/Index.page. Clicking on the “Regular Schedule & Registration” link will take employees directly to the OWL Portal, where they can choose and register for a class.

Those with questions may call the office of environmental health and safety at extension 14019. 

The department of environmental health and safety also maintains a “Speaking of Safety” blog where readers can learn more about preventing hazards at work and home, understanding safety regulations, and more.

The blog is available here.

 

]]>
Thu, 10 Apr 2014 12:22:46 -0700
4264:15810 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It - Spice things up!]]> Contributed report Hot spicy foods containing cayenne pepper trigger endorphins, which have a powerful effect on your body and make you feel good after exercising.

The LLUH employee wellness program offers a wellness recipe for bean burgers with spicy guacamole. It can be found at: http://bit.ly/R6HNBc.

 

]]>
Thu, 10 Apr 2014 12:17:29 -0700
4264:15807 <![CDATA[Institution-wide safety reports due soon]]> Heather Reifsnyder Each quarter, department heads/managers that they are responsible for identifying safety issues, initiating corrections, and documenting the corrections for their areas. 

Second-quarter reports must be filled out and filed within each department by April 30 to prepare for coming inspections. 

Hospital and clinical department heads should fill out the environment of care self-tour form, while heads of departments in the university and LLU Shared Services need to complete a safety inspection form. Both documents may be downloaded at the bottom of the page. 

These audit forms give the departments the opportunity to locate and actively correct any issues to prepare for regulatory agency requirements and university fire inspections. The completed forms are to be filed in each department.

For requesting self-tour form corrections and other issues, use the following contact information or clickable links:

•  General EOC, emergency management, HazMat, and fire safety concerns: EH&S complaint form

•  Utilities/repair concerns: MC engineering work order request or campus engineering repair request

• Housekeeping concerns: E-mail environmentalservices@llu.edu.

•  Security concerns: E-mail SecurityMC@llu.edu or dial extension 44320.

• Medical equipment concerns: clinical engineering medical equipment service request form

]]>
Thu, 10 Apr 2014 12:06:17 -0700
4264:15806 <![CDATA[Free film screening: 'A Place at the Table']]> Nancy Yuen A free screening of "A Place at the Table," will take place today from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Councilors Student Pavilion, 2945 Mound Street, in Loma Linda. A moderated panel discussion will take place after the film is shown.

The documentary shows the economic, social, and cultural implications that hunger has for our nation. The film suggests that the problems caused by hunger can be solved if Americans decide that making healthy food available and affordable is in everyone’s best interest.

The screening and panel discussion are sponsored by the nutrition council and Loma Linda University School of Public Health student associations, Loma Linda University Health Institute for Community Partnerships; and Loma Linda University campus ministries.

]]>
Thu, 10 Apr 2014 11:50:35 -0700
4264:15795 <![CDATA[LLU Medical Center performs 500th liver transplant]]> Herbert Atienza On April 8, following rehabilitation, Francisco Munoz returned home to the Coachella valley. Munoz, a farm worker and father of three, had been brought to Loma Linda University Medical Center several weeks ago clinging to life and in dire need of a liver transplant.

He is the 500th patient to receive a liver transplant at Loma Linda University Medical Center.

While Munoz is now sober, a lifetime of alcohol use, starting when he was a teen, and a diagnosis of Hepatitis C, caused the deterioration of his liver.

“If I had known how much suffering I would have because of alcohol, I never would have started,” he says. Munoz, who had been placed on a liver transplant list, received his transplant on March 1 after being taken to the hospital in very serious condition. Before the transplant, he had been on life support and in a coma for weeks.

“He would not have made it otherwise,” says Michael de Vera, MD, his liver transplant surgeon and director of the Loma Linda University Medical Center Transplantation Institute.

Munoz’s survival and positive health outlook is a testament to the quality of patient care he received and the commitment of the medical staff at the hospital, according to de Vera.

“It truly is due to teamwork—a multi-disciplinary team effort on the part of the different professionals and departments within the hospital,” de Vera says.

The first liver transplant at LLU Medical Center was performed in 1993.

]]>
Thu, 10 Apr 2014 10:12:37 -0700
4264:15710 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- A little assistance, please]]> Asking for help is never a sign of weakness—it actually shows strength of character. Accepting assistance when needed means you are committed to taking care of your own health and well-being. And when you feel your best, it shows in everything you do.

“Sometimes we must yield control to others and accept our vulnerability so we can be healed.”
–Kathy Magliato, "Healing Hearts: A Memoir of a Female Heart Surgeon"

“Yes I'm seeking for someone to help me. So that some day I will be the someone to help some other one.”
–Vignesh Karthi

]]>
Thu, 03 Apr 2014 13:52:20 -0700
4264:15708 <![CDATA[Video -- A grateful mother gives back to the NICU]]> ]]> LLUH payroll department worker Crystal Bowell explains how the NICU at LLU Children’s Hospital saved her preemie son’s life—and why she gives back as part of the Grow Together employee giving campaign.

To learn more about Grow Together, visit the website at llugrow.org.

]]>
Thu, 03 Apr 2014 13:37:20 -0700
4264:15706 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- The namesakes ...]]> Heather Reifsnyder Last week we queried from whose estate the donation for Randall Amphitheater came from. It was the estate of Harriet Randall-Campbell, MD, a 1929 graduate of the LLU School of Medicine. Dr. Randall taught at UCLA, was instrumental in the establishment of health education and services in the Los Angeles Unified School District, and was an associate professor of pediatrics at LLU School of Medicine. She was also a wonderful person, according to one person who answered the question.

Cherrie Martin, Alicia French, and Heather Powers are the three random winners. Please send an e-mail to pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

Randall Amphitheater is part of the same building as the Del E. Webb Memorial Library, so named because of a generous donation from the Del E. Webb Foundation (which also helped fund the LLU Medical Center building). Webb, among other successful business ventures, co-owned the New York Yankees for almost 10 years.

What year were the opening ceremonies held for the Del E. Webb Memorial Library and Randall Amphitheater complex?

Send the answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, April 8, for a chance to win. 

]]>
Thu, 03 Apr 2014 13:33:15 -0700
4264:15703 <![CDATA['Power of Inclusion' conference celebrates diversity at Loma Linda University Health]]> Herbert Atienza The second annual LLUH Power of Inclusion concluded last month with a number of events and tremendous participation from hundreds of attendees. The conference, with the theme “talent has no boundaries,” highlighted the important contributions that people with disabilities make to society. 

The conference kicked off with the inaugural Power of Inclusion 5K Run, Walk, and Roll as a way to celebrate community inclusiveness. More than 300 people—young and old, of different ethnicities, of different physical abilities, and of various religious backgrounds—all participated together.

On March 20, Academy Award-winning actress Marlee Matlin challenged everyone to set the highest goals for themselves as she also proclaimed “talent has no boundaries.”

Matlin, who is hearing impaired and who won Best Actress for her performance in the 1986 film “Children of a Lesser God,” delivered the conference’s keynote speech at Wong Kerlee International Conference Center. Matlin discussed the importance of setting high goals, refusing to give up, and having good mentors.

At the conference the previous day (March 19), Tony Melendez, a renowned guitarist who was born without arms, inspired conference participants with a rousing performance that had the audience clapping and cheering. Melendez, who performed for Pope John Paul II during the pontiff's visit to Los Angeles in 1987, presented on the theme "No Boundaries, No Limits, Never Give Up!"

The event wrapped up March 20 with an International Food Festival at the Drayson Center, with foods from every continent and clothing from nations around the world.

Cari Dominguez, PhD, senior vice president of the office of talent management and diversity, and Charlene Wilson, assistant vice president of human resources, presented the inaugural Power of Inclusion Award.

The award, designed to recognize members of the LLUH community who exhibit the highest level of commitment to diversity and inclusion, was presented to Katya Campos for her unsurpassed commitment to translating to the Spanish-speaking community within and around LLUH. 

The office of talent management and diversity expresses thanks to LLUH President Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, LLUH leadership, and management residents for their time, talents, and up-front conference participation, as well as thanking the media relations specialists, technicians, and other technical staff who worked behind the scenes.

]]>
Thu, 03 Apr 2014 13:03:22 -0700
4264:15701 <![CDATA[Annual compliance/HIPAA training has begun]]> A six-month period commenced April 1 in which to complete annual compliance and HIPAA training for employees of the following entities: LLUMC, LLUBMC, LLUMC-M, LLUSS, LLUHC, and SACHS.

Employees are encouraged to complete their training as soon as possible. Departments (based on cost center) with a 100 percent completion rate by April 30, 2014, will be entered into a drawing for a delicious treat.

The training can be accessed through the OWL portal at http://myllu.llu.edu/apps/training/. After logging in with their network/e-mail password, employees can register for the courses they need under “My Requirements” and will then receive a confirmation e-mail. Once registered, the courses can be directly accessed through the online classroom (Moodel) at https://ceonline.llu.edu.

Step-by-step instructions are available at the Compliance department VIP page.

For more information, call compliance at ext. 909-558-6458 or ext. 66458.

]]>
Thu, 03 Apr 2014 12:41:48 -0700
4264:15699 <![CDATA[LLUH to celebrate National Volunteer Week]]> Briana Pastorino Loma Linda University Health will be honoring its dedicated volunteers during National Volunteer Week, April 6-12. To show appreciation for all the hard work they provide to the organization, LLUH will offer massages, special snacks and gifts, a food festival, and opportunity drawings to all active volunteers.

“Our volunteers donate their personal time to be part of the patient experience, and they are selfless, hardworking people,” says Beth Rose, director of hospitality services at Loma Linda University Medical Center. “We rely on our community of volunteers to help fulfill our global mission of continuing ‘the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ.’”

Schedule of activities

 

Monday, April 7 | Traveling snack and gift cart
University Hospital and Children’s Hospital
10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. | Gift basket drawing at 2:00*

Tuesday, April 8 | Massages
Volunteer services office
10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. | Gift basket drawing at 3:00 p.m.* 

Wednesday, April 9 | Food festival
Volunteer services office
10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. | Gift basket drawing at 3:00 p.m.* 

Thursday, April 10 | Traveling snack and gift cart
University Hospital and Children’s Hospital
10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. | Gift basket drawing at 2:00 p.m.* 

Friday, April 11 | Traveling snack and gift cart
University Hospital and Children’s Hospital
10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. | Gift basket drawing at 2:00 p.m.* 

*Not required to be present to win

LLUH has approximately 400 active volunteers in any given month, and there are over 2,000 in the system. They range in age from 18 years to 50 and above. Some of the more common volunteer roles include those in child life, patient units, emergency department, gift shop, and hospitality services. Other volunteers may donate their time to chaplain services, clerical, P.A.W.S. (pets aiding wellness) or music connection volunteer programs.

Ruthita Fike, MA, CEO of Loma Linda University Medical Center, is honored to have such amazing individuals offer their knowledge and creativity to the LLUH campus.

“Volunteers help with the work, but they also bring the heart,” she says.

LLUH is always seeking out individuals who feel connected to the mission, vision, and values of the institution and who have the time to commit to giving back on a consistent, long-term basis with the purpose of helping others.

For information on how to become a volunteer, call volunteer services at 909-558-8022 or visit the website www.lomalindavolunteers.org.

]]>
Thu, 03 Apr 2014 11:56:01 -0700
4264:15658 <![CDATA[Say 'thank you' on Doctors Day]]> Thu, 27 Mar 2014 12:04:07 -0700 4264:15654 <![CDATA[Grow Together campaign launches in April ]]> Next week, the annual Grow Together employee giving campaign is launching. Starting April 1, Loma Linda University Health employees will be reminded about the impact Grow Together makes on our institution and will be encourage to support areas they are passionate about within LLUH.

Employees can choose where their gifts are allocated and show their loyal support through payroll deductions.

“For this campaign, I want every employee to feel inspired to support their passion,” says Taylor Khoe-Mupas, manager of annual giving and Grow Together. “Since we are part of such a large institution, there are countless opportunities for employees to discover and support their passion.”

Ideas about areas to give to can be found on the Grow Together website.

“I am inspired every day by the stories employees share with me about why they give back to LLUH,” says Khoe-Mupas. “Grow Together is a great way for them to feel connected to the greater mission of Loma Linda University Health.’”

Grow Together also gives employees the chance to directly impact patients and students within their own workplace, notes Khoe-Mupas.

This year, the goal is to increase the number of employees who participate through payroll deductions. With over 14,000 employees, every person has the potential to do something great for this organization through consistent giving. The size of the gift is not as important as the commitment through payroll deductions. In addition to the ease of giving, local restaurants are offering discounts to payroll-deductions donors who wear their Grow Together badge.

“Can you imagine what we could accomplish if every employee participates?” ponders Khoe-Mupas.

If every employee donated at least $5 each pay period, over $1.68 million would be raised in a year.

To learn more about Grow Together, visit the website at llugrow.org. You may also contact Taylor Khoe-Mupas at (909) 558-5358 or send an e-mail to growtogether@llu.edu.

More information is also available in the downloadable PDF below.

]]>
Thu, 27 Mar 2014 11:21:11 -0700
4264:15649 <![CDATA[LLUH to participate in a Code Orange drill]]> Briana Pastorino Loma Linda University Health is participating in a "Code Orange" drill, Monday, March 31, from 9:45 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Please follow the decision tree for your department on whether you will Shelter in Place (SIP) or Evacuate (SIMULATED).

Below are four downloadable documents to help you understand what SIP means to you in your area, a decision tree on whether to SIP or evacuate, guidelines on SIP, and the current Code Orange protocol.

Updates will be announced as the drill progresses via overhead intercom and the communication methods as you've specified them in the emergency contact system. Please review and update this information TODAY to ensure you are included in notification. Follow this link to update your information: http://myllu.llu.edu/profile/contactInfoEdit/

Part of the scenario will be downed phone lines so we must utilize our 2-way communications devices. However for all departments, the fax will still be utilized to get the disaster condition assessment forms to the Unified Command Center.

]]>
Thu, 27 Mar 2014 11:05:35 -0700
4264:15645 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- amphitheaters]]> Heather Reifsnyder Last week we visited the year 1944, in which one of the auditoriums on campus was named after a treasured professor of pathology who passed away too soon. That man was Oran I. Cutler, and the three winners are Kathy Respecio, Jane Hoag, and Alana Symons. Please e-mail pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

Another campus auditorium is found in the Randall Visitors Center, which building was made by possible by a large donation from whose estate? E-mail the answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, April 1, for a chance to win.

]]>
Wed, 26 Mar 2014 20:19:20 -0700
4264:15643 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- know your genes]]> Health tip of the week

Know your genes

Take an inventory of health problems that run in your family. Knowing your family’s health history provides useful—even lifesaving—information about your future. 

]]>
Wed, 26 Mar 2014 19:22:01 -0700
4264:15641 <![CDATA[Trailer for LLUH's 1st national TV show]]> Advancement films ]]> Enjoy some incredible stories of students, alumni, and patients in Loma Linda University Health’s new PBS WORLD Channel series “Life on the Line,” which begins airing nationally April 4 at 6:00 p.m. ET/PT. View the trailer and learn more about this program—Loma Linda University Health’s first national TV show—at www.lifeontheline.tv

]]>
Wed, 26 Mar 2014 18:42:06 -0700
4264:15626 <![CDATA[Grace period ending April 4 to remain on wholeness plan ]]> Nancy Yuen Newsflash! While the deadline for employees and spouses to complete the process necessary for them and their families to remain on the LLUH wholeness health plan is just hours away, a four-day grace period has been given. Appointments for biometric screenings are now available through April 4. There is no charge for the health risk assessment or biometric screening.

This plan does not apply to Loma Linda University Medical Center-Murrieta employees (except those stationed there who work for LLUMC). Loma Linda University employees will be receiving communications on their open enrollment within the next couple of weeks.

Enhanced benefits for those enrolled in the wholeness plan, which took effect January 1, 2014, include 100 percent coverage with no employee copayment for most preventive services provided on the Loma Linda campus.

However, if employees and their spouses do not meet the requirements by April 4, the entire family will become ineligible for the wholeness plan and will face higher out-of-pocket expenses, including higher monthly employee contributions, $40 copays for doctor visits, and higher prescription co-payments.

Both employees and their enrolled spouses must complete the following: 1) online health risk assessment (HRA), and 2) biometric screening. If a spouse does not complete the process, the entire family (including children) will become ineligible to remain in the wholeness plan.

If you have any questions, e-mail RiskManagementHealthPlans@llu.edu or call (909) 651-4010.

Thank you to everyone who has completed the process. Employees and spouses who are enrolled in the wholeness plan but have not yet completed the HRA and scheduled their biometric screening must do so by April 4; no further extensions will be granted.

The HRA website is: https://LLUH-HRA.com. The HRA and biometrics user’s guide, which includes step-by-step instructions, is posted at: https://peopleportal.llu.edu. Click on this link to access the January 2, 2014 News of the Week article “Action required for new health plans,” which includes additional information: http://myllu.llu.edu/newsoftheweek/story/?id=14396.

]]>
Wed, 26 Mar 2014 17:14:19 -0700
4264:15622 <![CDATA[Physicians' photography showcased at Redlands Art Association Gallery]]> Briana Pastorino Loma Linda University Health employees and their families and friends are invited to enjoy stunning photographic images captured by 11 Loma Linda University School of Medicine physicians. The works, featured in the art exhibit “Through a Doctor’s Lens,” include images of landscapes, animals, and nature.

“Through a Doctor’s Lens” is sponsored by the Loma Linda University office of physician vitality. It will take place March 28 through April 18 at the Redlands Art Association Gallery, 215 E. State Street, in Redlands.

“Both creative and altruistic endeavors,” says Barbara Couden Hernandez, PhD, director of physician vitality, “have long been known to enhance physician resilience and diminish burnout. LLU Medical Center physicians have maintained a rotating photography exhibit in the medical staff lounge for two years. The photography of ‘Through a Doctor’s Lens’ demonstrates their talent for detailed work and aesthetics that also characterizes their clinical skills.”

The images are available for purchase, with proceeds used to acquire rocking chairs for the hospital’s pediatric emergency department.

Featured photographers include doctors Don and Resa Chase, Gail Stewart, Chelsea Cosand, Tait Stevens, Francis Chan, Jay Shah, Lisa Kairis, Barry Watkins, Daniel Wongworawat, and Chad Burk.

 The Redlands Art Association Gallery is open to the public Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Admission is free.

 A reception will be held at the gallery on Sunday, March 30, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.

While many residency programs are required to provide behavioral health clinicians to teach residents, very few academic centers provide a licensed mental health provider to offer assistance or to create well-being programs for their faculty physicians.

The office of physician vitality sprang from LLU and LLUMC’s desire to attend to the whole person of its physicians as they offer whole-person care to their patients. Couden Hernandez offers consultation, education, research, and programming designed to enhance physician resilience and engagement.

]]>
Wed, 26 Mar 2014 16:56:13 -0700
4264:15563 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- stay sharp]]> Health tip of the week

Exercise your mind

People with mental agility may be less likely to suffer from Alzheimer’s disease and age-related mental decline. Stimulate your brain with new things every day such as taking a different route to work or choosing clothes based on sense of touch rather than sight. 

]]>
Thu, 20 Mar 2014 12:44:34 -0700
4264:15560 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- 1944]]> Heather Reifsnyder Last week’s posed question asked what time-honored tradition was given up during World War II in order to help produce more physicians who could serve the Allied effort. Summer vacation was sacrificed, compressing the four-year curriculum into three. Consequently, two classes from the School of Medicine graduated in 1944.

Lisa Stuck, Jennefer Aispuro, and Anuradha Diekmann are the three randomly chosen winners to answer correctly. Please send an e-mail to pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

Also in 1944, an auditorium on campus was named after a treasured professor of pathology who had passed away at only 40 years of age following a car accident. Who was this individual?

Please e-mail the answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight on Tuesday, March 25, for a chance to win. 

]]>
Thu, 20 Mar 2014 12:17:40 -0700
4264:15558 <![CDATA[LLUH's first national TV show to premiere April 4]]> Briana Pastorino Loma Linda University Health’s (LLUH) first national TV show will soon reach 72 million American households. “Life on the Line,” which features courageous individuals and turns their journeys into a moving documentary series, premieres on April 4, 2014, on PBS’s WORLD Channel.

“Working on this series has been an amazing experience,” says Patricia Kelikani, director of advancement films at LLUH. “This show is about real people finding meaning in the midst of a tragedy. This is where the real story lives and their strength of spirit shines.”

Narrated by celebrity host and journalist Lisa Ling and produced by the 12-time Emmy Award winning advancement films team, “Life on the Line” zeroes in on Loma Linda University Health—which serves one-quarter of Southern California—and equips medical teams to travel around the world. The show follows patients from Southern California to the Amazon, Haiti, and Egypt as they all fight a similar battle: to stay alive.

The series features six unique half-hour episodes:  

  • Episode 1 – “Heart to Heart” tells the story of a family whose newborn baby desperately needs a heart transplant to survive.
  • Episode 2 – “Out of the Rubble” captures the life of an 8-year-old Haitian boy who was trapped under earthquake rubble for three days.
  • Episode 3 – “End it Now” follows three child abuse victims as they learn to move beyond the trauma and live their lives to the fullest.
  • Episode 4 – “Baby Blue” shows how doctors from opposite sides of the globe collaborate to save Egyptian babies born with congenital heart disease.
  • Episode 5 – “Armed for the Challenge” features an athlete who sets out to prove that disability doesn’t mean inability.
  • Episode 6 – “Anchoring Hope” features a medical boat from Loma Linda University providing much needed health care services for people living in the underserved Amazon jungle.

“Life on the Line” will air on Fridays with repeats throughout the week. During each viewing, two episodes will appear back-to-back. In addition to airing on the WORLD Channel in April, the show will air on PBS stations throughout the country in July. For the full schedule, episode previews, and more information about the show, visit www.lifeontheline.tv.

]]>
Thu, 20 Mar 2014 11:23:58 -0700
4264:15556 <![CDATA[Children's Hospital Gala called best program yet]]> Briana Pastorino The Citizen’s Business Bank Arena was filled with vibrancy, hope, and enthusiasm along with approximately 2,000 guests during the 21st Annual Foundation Gala and Benefit Concert—themed “I’m Possible: Making the Impossible Possible”—for Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital on March 13.

Funds to the amount of $635,000 were raised for the hospital through silent, live, and almost live auctions during the course of the evening as well as sponsorships and other donations.

“Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital wants to inspire the kids we encounter to dream with no boundaries—to make the impossible possible,” says Jillian Payne, executive director of the Children’s Hospital Foundation.

“The critical funds raised through this awesome event will allow the hospital to provide advanced medical care through cutting-edge technology, innovative research, and world-class care for pediatric patients and their families,” Payne adds.

Heather Froglear from K-FROG 95.1 F.M. and actor Craig Bierko hosted the event as the first-ever celebrity emcees in gala history.

“It’s hard to say why we feel the need to do certain things at certain times in our lives,” says Bierko, “but when those moments come along, the question itself seems to fall away, and you know only one thing for certain—it’s time to act. This is the way I felt after visiting Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital.”

The evening kicked off with the singing of the National Anthem by LLU Children’s Hospital patient and singer Hugo Ramos, who also sang later in the evening. Hugo underwent numerous surgeries at Children’s Hospital throughout his childhood to repair his cleft palate.

“I feel like I’m at home when I visit the hospital. They always make me feel very comfortable,” Ramos said in a video shown during the event.

During the program, 7-year-old patient Kimie Metcalf was presented with the 2013 Hometown Hero Award. Diagnosed with leukemia before kindergarten, Kimie has been cancer free for more than a year. She donates her time to making appearances for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, supports her own Team Kimie fundraising events, and continuing to be an ongoing advocate for LLU Children’s Hospital. She is a constant reminder that it’s never too early to make a difference.

Dennis and Carol Troesh, longtime supporters of the hospital, were recognized with the 2013 Shirley N. Pettis Award. For the past 13 years, they have taken a personal interest in projects at Loma Linda University Health and Children’s Hospital, including supporting relief efforts in Haiti and Alexandria, Egypt. They are always willing to roll up their sleeves and be active participants in making a difference for kids at LLU Children’s Hospital.

The evening concluded with a concert featuring classical singer Jackie Evancho, accompanied by the San Bernardino Symphony.

“Our deepest appreciation goes out to all those who participated in this year’s gala,” says Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health. “Thank you for catching the vision of creating tomorrow’s healthy kids and making their lives and futures ‘possible.’ Because of all the support we have received, Children’s Hospital can continue to stretch our capacity to care for children in Southern California and beyond.”

]]>
Thu, 20 Mar 2014 11:11:39 -0700
4264:15554 <![CDATA[Participation encouraged for final days of employee engagement survey]]> The annual LLUH employee engagement survey opened for employees to respond March 4 and runs through Tuesday, March 25. This gives employees the opportunity to participate in a completely confidential survey about their experience and level of engagement at Loma Linda University Health.

Each employee has received a personalized access code to take the survey online or over the phone. 

Employees that need help accessing the survey or to obtain an access code may contact Gallup Client Support directly at  1-866-788-9987. 

The survey, which takes about 10 minutes, allows employees to share their feedback and play a role in improving Loma Linda University Health.

As of Thursday morning, March 20, 68 percent of LLUH employees have taken the survey. One hundred percent is the goal.

The data gathered is helpful on many levels as LLUH strives to carry out its mission to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ.

The results help departments understand areas of opportunity as well as success. Leadership and administrative teams are able to look at the organization as a whole and pinpoint strengths and growth opportunities.

“Our employees are our most important partners in accomplishing the teaching and healing ministry that is our mission,” says Gerald Winslow, PhD, vice president for mission and culture. “We are committed to creating a work environment in which all of our team members feel valued and connected to the organization.”  

]]>
Thu, 20 Mar 2014 10:34:59 -0700
4264:15552 <![CDATA[Notes from the President]]> Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   March 2014
Alumni--our legacy and future

It’s that time of year. They come back for various reasons. Alumni. Some are leaning heavily on canes, while others wear the blush of a new job or recent success. Who are these 42,000 graduates of Loma Linda University? What are they doing? Are they fulfilling their dreams, loving and living as they go about their activities? Perhaps rebounding from the ravages of disease? Or counting their blessings while serving the world with their skills?

For most parents, having an alumnus of Loma Linda University in the family means sweet success. Mission accomplished. Obligation fulfilled.

For the student, becoming an alumnus is a final step, the end of a lifelong dream, a time for reflection and reward. LLU will graduate more than 1,300 students this year, adding to our distinguished list. Each of our schools has milestones to be recognized. Our School of Medicine, for example, claims the most medical graduates in the western USA—nearly 10,500. Many of our schools have multiple generations calling Loma Linda their alma mater. 

When we are asked to consider a difficult project, like our recent contracts to develop teaching hospitals in Afghanistan and Palestine, our initial question is always “Can we find the people willing to go?” Our confidence in the answer has grown through the years because of our alumni. They always step up and serve with distinction, many working in unlikely places and often forgotten to us. Most are unsung heroes, not asking for recognition or reward, just enjoying the privilege of service.

Alumni are also donors, wanting to give back, remembering a particular program or teacher, feeling grateful for their career, and always wanting to help the next generation. Some give large naming gifts, while many contribute in smaller amounts, year by year. It is these funds that enable us to remain on the forefront of education, health care, and research. Our current Vision 2020 campaign will transform this campus, preparing us for decades of service into the future.

Many of our alumni have distinguished themselves in their disciplines. They have led major research labs, contributed new clinical techniques, and managed programs and departments effectively. Most importantly, they have carried a sense of this campus ethos with them, recognizing that our motto is a lifelong commitment to both personal and professional wholeness. They often write back or visit, telling of their work and mission. They often refer to the Loma Linda “experience”—that unique sense of satisfaction from a life well focused.

They carry varied responsibilities, such as the respiratory therapists from our program in Saudi Arabia, who now head the respiratory programs in all the hospitals in that Kingdom, raising standards to a new level. Or our rehabilitation technicians, graduating from our new certificate program in Haiti, serving the many amputees and others injured in that earthquake-torn country. And many step into the public sector as social workers, public health specialists, nurses, and more in city and county health departments, often serving the disenfranchised—as do our dentists, chaplains, pharmacists, and others in various other sectors.

I often think about our students and graduates of the future. What will they look for at Loma Linda University? Will they find it? Can we always maintain our standards of excellence? Will we find the right faculty to carry on our programs? Maintain our uniqueness? What new programs will be developed? What about our Gateway College and our new certificate programs planned for San Bernardino? Will those students experience Loma Linda in a way that will lead them to display their diploma with pride?

We also include our patients as a special kind of “alumni” of Loma Linda. These are often the most passionate ambassadors for the Loma Linda experience and the quality of care and compassion they find on our campus. There are now 17,000 from our James Slater, MD, Proton Treatment and Research Center alone. They come from all corners of this country and abroad. I have had the privilege of visiting with some of them. They appreciate the success of their cancer treatment, but most talk effusively about what they learned about living while at Loma Linda. They exercised at the Drayson Center, ate our unique dietary menus, and socialized with fellow patients and staff. When they leave, they begin life anew, with a better knowledge of nutrition and exercise, but also, more importantly, with an understanding of balance in life, God’s role on this earth, and the gift of life.

I stood on the top of Pisgah Peak before sunrise this morning. The three miles up that winding dirt road is always invigorating, calling me to summit its 6,000-foot peak at least once a week for the last 35 years. As I reached the top, a profusion of yellow greeted me along the upper bank. A spread of daffodils, planted long ago by someone in the unknown past, is now reaching out to the morning sun. Each spring they greet me and I wonder—who planted them? What were their dreams? Was this to be the view from their front porch, or the path to their home on the hill? All year long those bulbs lay just below the surface, gathering strength, absorbing nutrients, waiting for the call of spring. Neither the manzanita bushes above nor the green grass blanketing the earth could know what lies beneath them. Yet each spring these daffodils bring forth their blessings to the world, unheralded, persistent through snow or heat, reminding us all of God’s creative love.

This view struck me this morning as a beautiful metaphor for our graduates. Often silent yet busy, sometimes forgotten yet carrying on their work, they come forth to bless the world. They are like a daffodil endowment, a quiet hidden fund that periodically pours forth its blessings. Thank you to all our alumni for the amazing reputation you have bestowed on Loma Linda. You are both our legacy and our future, and we are indeed grateful.

Enjoy some incredible stories of our students, alumni, and patients in our new PBS WORLD Channel series “Life on the Line,” which begins airing nationally April 4 at 6:00 p.m. ET/PT. Learn more about this program—Loma Linda University Health’s first national TV show—at www.lifeontheline.tv. And catch a glimpse of these stories in this trailer:

Cordially yours,

Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH

President, Loma Linda University Health

Office of the President, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350

Copyright © 2014 by Loma Linda University

llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 20 Mar 2014 10:29:28 -0700
4264:15533 <![CDATA[Time-lapse video of gala]]> Advancement films ]]> From setup to the last song of the evening, watch a time-lapse of the 2014 LLU Children’s Hospital Gala from beginning to end in 60 seconds.

]]>
Thu, 20 Mar 2014 07:23:33 -0700
4264:15130 <![CDATA[LLUH introduces new site for policy & procedure management]]> Jeremy Hubbard As Loma Linda University Health continues to grow, the organization has struggled to maintain an ever-growing tide of policies, procedures, and other important institutional documents. That’s why in 2012, a team led by DP Harris, PhD, LLU vice president for information services and academic information systems, was tasked to devise a solution to address this need.

In fall 2013, Loma Linda University Health unveiled a sneak preview of “PolicyTech,” a new web platform for managing policies, procedures, and other institutional documents. And as of March 3, 2014, PolicyTech will officially serve as the permanent home of institutional documents for LLUH.

PolicyTech replaces several existing intranet sites while simplifying policy creation, collaboration, and distribution. PolicyTech also provides advanced search capabilities, making institutional documents much easier to find and manage.

Users will still access policies much the same way as before, via links to institutional documents on VIP. These links will now simply redirect to PolicyTech.

Instructions for using PolicyTech are available on VIP. Additional training for advanced roles will be disseminated by entity policy managers.

Questions? Please contact the Service Desk at ext. 48889.

]]>
Thu, 20 Feb 2014 10:19:59 -0800
4264:15426 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- sacrifices]]> Heather Reifsnyder Last week’s query asked where LLU’s 47th General Hospital of the U.S. Army Medical Corps shipped in 1944 as part of the World War II efforts in the Pacific. Alana Symons, Victor Leon, and Patti Leep are the three random winners who correctly answered New Guinea. Send an e-mail to pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

During World War II, another of many efforts made by Loma Linda University involved increasing the number of physicians it graduated to help ensure the country an adequate source of medical officers. To accomplish this, what cherished tradition was taken out of the schedule?

E-mail the answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, March 18, for a chance to win.

]]>
Thu, 13 Mar 2014 13:15:04 -0700
4264:15424 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It -- stretch yourself]]> Heather Reifsnyder Health tip of the week

Start stretching

Encourage your natural urge to stretch when waking up. A few simple stretching exercises in the morning can boost circulation and digestion while decreasing back pain. Live It!

]]>
Thu, 13 Mar 2014 12:36:26 -0700
4264:15419 <![CDATA[Time is running out to remain on wholeness health plan]]> Nancy Yuen Time is nearly out for employees and spouses to complete the two steps necessary for them and their families to remain on the LLUH wholeness health plan, which took effect January 1, 2014. This does not currently apply to LLU employees. 

Download the step-by-step guide below.

Enhanced benefits for those enrolled in the wholeness plan include 100 percent coverage with no employee copayment for most preventive services provided on the Loma Linda campus.

However, if employees and their spouses do not meet the requirements by March 31, the entire family will become ineligible for the wholeness plan and will face higher out-of-pocket expenses, including $40 copays for doctor visits.

Both employees and their spouses must complete the following: 1) health risk assessment, and 2) biometric screening by March 31. If a spouse does not complete the process, the entire family (including children) will become ineligible to remain in the wholeness plan.

]]>
Thu, 13 Mar 2014 12:19:02 -0700
4264:15417 <![CDATA[Saving a DJ's daughter]]> Advancement films )]]> Heather Froglear, announcer for local radio station KFROG, is the emcee for tonight's LLU Children’s Hospital Gala and has a special connection to the hospital. Hear how LLUCH saved her daughter’s life.

]]>
Thu, 13 Mar 2014 12:06:19 -0700
4264:15415 <![CDATA[Weekend traffic advisory for Anderson Street at I-10]]> As part of Phase 1 of the Interstate 10/Tippecanoe Interchange Project, crews will be closing the two outside lanes of the eastbound Interstate 10 off ramp toward Anderson/Tippecanoe to replace portions of concrete slabs.    

On Saturday, March 15, the two outside lanes will be closed starting at 9:00 am and continue until work is complete and the new concrete has cured sufficiently for traffic. The project team is scheduling the work to finish at approximately 10:00 pm, but efforts to accelerate construction are being made to resume full operation of the off ramp just as soon as possible. 

The off ramp will remain open to traffic during this construction activity. The inside two lanes will be used for travelers exiting Interstate 10 for access to Tippecanoe Avenue to the north or Anderson Avenue to the south. Motorists are encouraged to slow down in this construction zone and expect minor delays during the hours of construction operations.

Phase I of the I-10/Tippecanoe Interchange Project was originally scheduled for completion in summer 2013. Unexpected field conditions resulted in extending the schedule to spring 2014. Phase II of the interchange improvements are scheduled to begin later this year and continue into 2016.

]]>
Thu, 13 Mar 2014 11:58:49 -0700
4264:15413 <![CDATA[Research affairs awards intramural grants to collaborative projects]]> Heather Reifsnyder The Loma Linda University Health office of research affairs has announced the winners of the latest GRASP awards (Grants for Research and School Partnerships).

Sixteen applications were received from 29 different co-investigators, which were reviewed by a panel of senior researchers. Based on the combined scores of the reviewers, three projects with investigators from three different schools were selected for funding.

The goal of the awards is to encourage collaborative research between various parts of the institution.

The funded applications include basic laboratory research, translational studies, clinical projects, and environmental investigations. 

The following applications were awarded financial support:

• Takkin Lo and Traci Marin: “Angiogenesis: mechanisms in normoxia, hypoxia, and hyperoxia”

• Stephen Dunbar and Danilo Boskovic: “Heavy metals and POPs in hawksbills and their prey—implications for human health”

• Serkan Inceoglu and Rodrigo Viecilli: “Biomechanics of severe apical root resorption”

]]>
Thu, 13 Mar 2014 11:44:30 -0700
4264:15410 <![CDATA[Healthy People in Healthy Communities a success]]> Briana Pastorino Loma Linda University School of Public Health hosted its annual conference, Healthy People in Healthy Communities, March 3-5. The conference theme this year put a spotlight on children’s health in the community, bringing together a multi-disciplinary group of nearly 300 academic professionals, policy leaders, educators, GIS experts, and child advocates. It was the first ever child-focused public health event at Loma Linda University Health.

“The conference was a great mix of both scientific research and practice-based application that demonstrated success for our children, the next generation,” says Donna Gurule, MPH, chair of the conference’s scientific committee as well as the environmental health and geoinformatics sciences department in the School of Public Health. 

“If we don’t act with other non-traditional partners to create healthy environments for our children, they will not have the same opportunities to thrive that we had growing up,” she explains.   

The event kicked off with an introductory half-day at Esri in Redlands on Monday, March 3, which was geared toward geoinformatic specialists and those interested in learning how geoinformatics is changing the face of health care and public health.

The main program for the conference took place at Loma Linda University Drayson Center on March 4 and 5, which is when keynote speakers Jeff Speck and Richard Louv gave their presentations.

“Jeff Speck and Richard Louv were phenomenal,” Gurule says, “and introduced new concepts to us about how our environment impacts our children’s health. They also shared how we can change the predicted outcome of disease by getting involved in how our communities are designed and taking our children outside to enjoy something that we as parents have taken for granted—our environment.”

Jeff Speck, a city planner and urban designer, presented on Tuesday. Author of Walkable City: How Downtown Can Save America, One Step at a Time,” Speck advocates internationally for smart growth and sustainable design through writing, lectures, public service, and built work.

“There are numerous health related issues linking the design of our communities to the morbidity that we are suffering from,” he said during his lecture. Speck cited that there are 12 deaths on the road (drivers and pedestrians) per 100,000 people per year. Also, the “asthma epidemic is three times what it was in the 1990s and scientific proof has traced this back to car emissions.” The final issue he cited was obesity. “We have the first generation of Americans that is expected to live shorter lives than their parents, and kids born after the year 2000 are expected to become diabetic.”

Speck encourages people to change their lifestyle to walk. “If we want to create more walkers than drivers, we have to create a walk that’s better than the drive.”

On Wednesday, Richard Louv, author of “The Last Child in the Woods” and "Nature Principle," took to the stage to discuss the gap between children and nature. “There is no denying the benefits of the Internet, however, electronic immersion without a force to balance it creates a hole in the boat, draining our ability to pay attention, think clearly, and be productive and creative,” Louv said. “To combat these losses, our society seems to look everywhere but the natural domain for the building of better brains.”

Louv also suggested that exposure to nature and the living world can actually enhance intelligence. “Our senses and sensibilities can be improved by spending time in nature,” he said, “and the natural environment seems to stimulate our ability to pay attention, think clearly, and be more creative.”

Louv ended his presentation with a question: “What if for every education dollar we spent on the virtual, we spent another dollar on the real?”

Krystal Gheen, MPH, from LLU School of Public Health summed up the event in this statement: “At the School of Public Health, we understand that there is so much more to health than health care—where we live, work, learn, and play profoundly influences our health. We hope that by bringing awareness to these national issues, we can help lead a diverse community to create opportunities for better health in neighborhoods, homes, schools and workplaces, and to establish healthier lives now and for generations to come.”

]]>
Thu, 13 Mar 2014 11:34:32 -0700
4264:15324 <![CDATA[Tips for Living It]]> Health tip of the week

Load up on berries

Blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries contain powerful antioxidants. Blueberries, for example, have a high concentration of resveratrol—an antioxidant believed to help protect against heart disease and cancer. 

]]>
Thu, 06 Mar 2014 12:49:52 -0800
4264:15321 <![CDATA[LLU Children's Hospital to begin separate operations]]> A message from LLU Medical Center/Children’s Hospital administration:

Caring for the children of our community is core to the heart and soul of the mission of Loma Linda University Health. We are announcing major advances in those services. Loma Linda University Medical Center has maintained an integrated Children’s Hospital for 20 years.

Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital will begin operating under its own corporate structure this summer. With changes in reimbursement structures and the regulatory environment, we have determined that having a separately licensed Children’s Hospital would be advantageous overall to Loma Linda University Health. A separate and distinct license would permit Children’s Hospital to capitalize on strategic partnerships within our current service area, greater payor contract flexibility, membership in California Children’s Hospital Association (CCHA), and CHGME reimbursements that are currently unavailable under joint licensure.

We are pursuing an effective license date of July 1, 2014, for Children’s Hospital. In order to meet the target effective date, we will begin separate operations on April 12, 2014, in correlation with the 2012 LLEAP system upgrade. This will allow us time to optimize operations prior to the licensing survey, which will take place sometime near the end of the second quarter of 2014.

To fulfill the requirements of separate licensure, Children’s Hospital will focus on providing distinct pediatric care in the eight basic services required for General Acute Care Hospitals (GACH):

  1. Medical Staff
  2. Nursing
  3. Surgery
  4. Anesthesia
  5. Clinical Laboratory
  6. Radiology
  7. Nutrition
  8. Pharmacy

In addition, Children’s Hospital will continue to provide pediatric services required for California Children’s Services (CCS) accreditation:

  1. Pediatric
  2. Intensive Care
  3. Basic Emergency
  4. Social Services
  5. Occupational Therapy
  6. Physical Therapy 

The services that will be included under the Children’s Hospital license are:

  • All pediatric inpatient units
  • Total Care Birth Center
  • Emergency department
  • Perioperative services
  • Pediatric OP facilities
  • Basic and CCS required services

It will be critically important to distinguish between the services provided to pediatric patients versus those provided to adults as reflected in LLEAP and other electronic systems. The process for assuring this distinction and any changes to current workflows will be addressed in upgrade training.

In addition, separate patient flows will be required. There are areas that will require construction modifications in order to fulfill regulatory requirements for licensure. These projects include:

  1. Expansion of pediatric pre-op and recovery space
  2. Addition of an operating room control desk for Children’s Hospital
  3. Remodel of 4219 to outpatient Children’s Hospital infusion space
  4. Children’s Hospital pharmacy storage space
  5. Emergency department waiting room upgrade to provide pediatric and adult distinction
  6. Unique Children’s Hospital signage and way finding
  7. Separate Children’s Hospital and Medical Center kitchen and dietary services

These are exciting developments for LLU Health and particularly for quality pediatric and maternal care for the children and women of the Inland Empire. We need and appreciate your support in this endeavor.

If you have any questions, please talk with your manager. You can also contact Brianna Miller or Sondra Leno via e-mail.

]]>
Thu, 06 Mar 2014 12:33:38 -0800
4264:15320 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- Wartime]]> Heather Reifsnyder Kristy Borowik, Jennifer DeWitt, and Karen Schiller—congratulations. You are the random winners of last week’s trivia question about what new courts the Drayson Center added in 2003. The answer? Beach volleyball. Please e-mail pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

From sports, we turn to the serious topic of wartime.

In 1926, as a gesture of cooperation and preparedness with the U.S. government, the College of Medical Evangelists—as LLU was then known—organized the 47th General Hospital of the U.S. Army Medical Corps. In peacetime, this existed primarily on paper.

But in 1943, the hospital was activated in Modesto, California, with 1920 alumnus Ben E. Grant, MD, serving as commandant. The majority of the officers were Seventh-day Adventists—about 60 of them being LLU graduates—along with many of the nurses, who were led by first lieutenant Wealthy E. Lindsay, a 1935 graduate of LLU’s nursing program.

The next year, the S.S. West Point transported the hospital to the South Pacific. Where specifically was it sent? If you know the answer, e-mail it to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, March 11, for the chance to win. 

]]>
Thu, 06 Mar 2014 12:30:06 -0800
4264:15318 <![CDATA[Marlee Matlin among high-profile speakers at 'Power of Inclusion']]> Herbert Atienza Academy Award winner Marlee Matlin will lead a number of high-powered presenters at the upcoming “Power of Inclusion” conference at Loma Linda University Health (LLUH).

The second annual “Power of Inclusion” conference, which is open to the public, will highlight the important contributions that people with disabilities make to society. Conference registration costs range from $15 to $30. For a full program agenda with dates and times, location, and registration details, please visit the website at www.powerofinclusion.org.

Matlin, who is hearing impaired and who won Best Actress for her performance in the 1986 film “Children of a Lesser God,” will present on the theme “Talent Has No Boundaries,” between 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Thursday, March 20, at Loma Linda University Health Wong Kerlee International Conference Center, 11175 Campus St., Loma Linda. Attendance to Matlin’s presentation is free to the public, with lunch available for purchase for $15.

Other notable speakers scheduled to present at the conference: 

  • Tony Melendez, a renowned guitarist who was born without arms. Melendez, who performed for Pope John Paul II during the pontiff’s visit to Los Angeles in 1987, will present on Wednesday, March 19, on the theme “No Boundaries, No Limits, Never Give Up!”
  • Dr. Samuel Betances, diversity expert, motivational speaker, and best selling author, will present on Wednesday, March 19, on “Diversity Skill Sets for Providing Effective Health Care to Members of the Culture of Disability.”
  • Ginny Thornburgh, director of Interfaith Initiative at the American Association of People with Disabilities, will present on Thursday, March 20, on the theme “That All May Worship: A Ramp is Not Enough.”
  • John Kemp, president and CEO of The Viscardi Center in New York City, will present on Thursday, March 20, on “Developing a Disability-Inclusive Workforce and Society.”
  • Grace Odums, noted author and strategy consultant, will present on Thursday, March 20, on “Building an Inclusive Work Environment.”

To kick off the conference, a 5K Walk/Run/Roll, benefiting Loma Linda University PossAbilities—a community outreach program for disabled community members—will be held on Sunday, March 16.

The conference will conclude with an International Food Festival, featuring foods from different parts of the world and live music, on Thursday (March 20).

“We are very excited to build upon our success last year and hope to host a very memorable ‘Power of Inclusion’ conference this year,” says Cari M. Dominguez, PhD, senior vice president of human resources at LLUH. “Diversity inspires creativity, inclusion promotes unity, and access provides opportunities for everyone.”

]]>
Thu, 06 Mar 2014 12:26:16 -0800
4264:15316 <![CDATA['Join' the Jackie Evancho concert on Facebook]]> Heather Reifsnyder The Children’s Hospital Gala, taking place Thursday, March 13, will feature a benefit concert by teen soprano Jackie Evancho.

Please log in and “join” the Jackie Evancho concert on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/events/1413696538879133/ and invite your friends.

There are directions on how to get $10 off with the coupon code LLUCH10.

#LLUCHGala

]]>
Thu, 06 Mar 2014 12:21:46 -0800
4264:15288 <![CDATA[Final days! Action required to remain on LLUH wholeness plan.]]> Nancy Yuen Alert! There are just 26 days left for employees and spouses to complete the two (2) steps necessary for them and their families to remain on the LLUH wholeness health plan, which took effect January 1, 2014.

Enhanced benefits for those enrolled in the wholeness plan include 100 percent coverage with no employee copayment for most preventive services provided on the Loma Linda campus.

However, if employees and their spouses do not meet the requirements by March 31, the entire family will become ineligible for the wholeness plan and will face higher out-of-pocket expenses, including $40 copays for doctor visits.

Both employees and their spouses must complete the following: 1) health risk assessment, and 2) biometric screening by March 31. If a spouse does not complete the process, the entire family (including children) will become ineligible to remain in the wholeness plan.

The numbers are encouraging. So far, more than 90 percent of the employees and their spouses who are covered under the wholeness plan have completed the health risk assessment (HRA), while 74.4 percent have finished their biometric screening (6,523 people have done their biometric screening, and 2,151 have registered). The plan does not currently apply to LLU employees or Murrieta employees (except those stationed there who work for LLUMC).

The good news: there is still time. Additional appointments for the biometric screenings have opened up, with a variety of times available during the weekend and after work. Appointments are available through the end of March, and there is no charge for the HRA or biometric screening.

One-on-one help, including information about special ongoing sessions where someone is present to assist employees and spouses as they sign up on the computer, is available by calling (909) 651-4010.

Biometric screenings are taking place at eight locations:

  • Behavioral Medicine Center
  • East Campus
  • LLUAHSC 101 building
  • Faculty Medical Offices
  • LLUMC cafeteria
  • Wong Kerlee International Conference Center
  • Highland Springs
  • LLUMC - Murrieta (for employees of Loma Linda University Medical Center main campus who are stationed at the Murrieta campus)

Thank you to everyone who has completed the process. Employees and spouses who are enrolled in the wholeness plan but have not yet completed the HRA and scheduled their biometric screening are encouraged to do so as soon as possible.

The HRA website is: https://LLUH-HRA.com. The HRA and biometrics user’s guide, which includes step-by-step instructions, is posted at: https://peopleportal.llu.edu. Click on this link to access the January 2, 2014 News of the Week article, “Action required for new health plans,” which includes additional information: http://myllu.llu.edu/newsoftheweek/story/?id=14396.

*This requirement does not apply to the Loma Linda University or Murrieta employee Health Plans.

 

 

]]>
Wed, 05 Mar 2014 15:34:30 -0800
4264:15235 <![CDATA[History of LLUH -- Dr. Alfred Q. Shryock]]> Advancement films ]]> Who was Shryock Hall named after? Dr. Alfred Shryock taught every medical student Loma Linda accepted during its first 40 years. Watch why we celebrate his legacy.

]]>
Thu, 27 Feb 2014 13:07:44 -0800
4264:15232 <![CDATA[Riverside Convention Center to offer menu options designed by Loma Linda University Health]]> Herbert Atienza and Nancy Yuen On February 26 at 5:00 p.m., the doors of the Riverside Convention Center opened for a special preview event marking the center’s grand reopening. As guests entered the glass doors beneath the archway facing Fifth Street in Riverside, the setting sun lit up the handcrafted blown- and sculpted-glass lighting fixture on display in the 66-foot entrance tower above.

More than 1,000 guests attended the evening’s welcome ceremony, enjoying the many vegetarian and vegan entrees options included among the hors d'oeuvres. Then, they took self-guided tours of the convention center, which was closed in July 2012 for $43 million in renovations.

During the ceremony, special mention was made of the role Loma Linda University Health is playing to help select menu items created with seasonal specialties and healthful ingredients, consistent with LLUH standards of excellence and nutrition. The specialized menu will complement a menu created by the center’s new executive chef, Brad Martin.

LLUH nutritional experts are working closely with the convention center’s culinary staff to supervise their knowledge and techniques for proper preparation of vegan and vegetarian meals recommended for inclusion on the specialized menu.

 “We’re privileged,” says LLUH chief wholeness officer Daniel Fontoura, “to share our experience with vegetarian cuisine and our message of healthy living to the 250,000 guests of Riverside Convention Center each year.”

In addition to developing the menu and staff training, LLUH is involved in other aspects of food service at the Convention Center including conducting a nutritional assessment of all food items on the menu. Students from LLU’s nutrition and dietetics programs will take part in internship opportunities to meet the requirements of their practicum to complete their advanced degrees.

 “We are pleased to have this unique opportunity,” says Ted Weggeland president and CEO, Raincross Hospitality Corporation, “to cooperate with such a well-respected organization as Loma Linda University Health to promote important principles of nutrition, while providing our valued guests with the best opportunities for healthful eating. The Riverside Convention Center is committed to representing the promise of healthy living in a socially responsible community.” Raincross Hospitality Corporation is managing the Convention Center.

 

]]>
Thu, 27 Feb 2014 00:00:00 -0800
4264:15226 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- Stay fit]]> Heather Reifsnyder Regina Peters, Nancy Wolfe, and Maria Worcester—you are our three random winners. E-mail pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days. Three Paralympic hopefuls from Loma Linda University PossAbilities are paratriathlete Andre Barbieri, handcyclist Delmon Dunston, and canoeist Greg Crouse. Learn more about them at http://www.teampossabilities.org/paralympic-program/.

 

While we can’t all be Olympians, Loma Linda University Health wants students and employees to have a healthy lifestyle. The Drayson Center offers exercise equipment, classes, and intramurals to keep people active and fit. The center opened in 1995, and near the end of 2003, it added two new courts. For what sport are these made? Hint: It’s a summer Olympic sport.

]]>
Thu, 27 Feb 2014 12:52:07 -0800
4264:15224 <![CDATA[Annual Postgraduate Convention scheduled for next week]]> Heather Reifsnyder The campus of Loma Linda University Health will welcome guests March 7 through 10 when the School of Medicine Alumni Association hosts its 82nd Annual Postgraduate Convention. The conference is designed to diminish the gap between evidence-based medicine and practice. It is geared toward physicians, ethicists, physician assistants, and registered nurses.

For more information, visit http://advancement.lluhealth.org/smaa/events/apc2014-info.

Included in the schedule is an author book signing for Evening Rounds, the School of Medicine’s second devotional book. The signing will take place March 7 in the Centennial Complex from 6:30 to 10:30 a.m.

To RSVP for the book signing or learn how to buy a copy of Evening Rounds, visit www.llu.edu/evening-rounds.

 

]]>
Thu, 27 Feb 2014 12:42:39 -0800
4264:15222 <![CDATA[Participation encouraged for annual employee engagement survey]]> Heather Reifsnyder From March 4 through 25, employees will have the opportunity to participate in a confidential survey about their experience and level of engagement at Loma Linda University Health. Each employee will receive an invitation and personalized access code to take the survey.

The survey, which takes about 10 minutes and can be done over the phone or via the web, allows employees to play a role in improving the organization.

The data gathered is helpful on many levels as Loma Linda University Health carries out its mission to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ.

The results help departments understand areas of opportunity as well as success. Leadership and administrative teams are able to look at the organization as a whole and pinpoint strengths and growth opportunities.

“Our employees are our most important partners in accomplishing the teaching and healing ministry that is our mission,” says Gerald Winslow, PhD, vice president for mission and culture. “We are committed to creating a work environment in which all of our team members feel valued and connected to the organization.”  

More information is available in the document below. 

]]>
Thu, 27 Feb 2014 12:28:41 -0800
4264:15219 <![CDATA[Human resources changes name to talent management services]]> Heather Reifsnyder The executive leadership council (ELC) of Loma Linda University Health unanimously approved renaming the department of human resource management, and the people services operations at the Medical Center, as talent management services. 

“The name change recognizes the pivotal importance of human talent in driving strategies and delivering results. In the past, human resources was relegated to a transactional, process-driven role. Today, the focus is on talent—attracting, developing, and retaining the best available talent for the right positions to successfully carry out mission-critical roles. Having a shared functional name for all our services also reflects organizational cohesion and provides clarity for our hard-working employees,” says Cari Dominguez, PhD, chief talent and diversity officer.

For Loma Linda University Health, this focus takes on the further significance of creating a diverse workforce whose values align with Loma Linda’s mission to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ.

Dominguez refers to Jesus’s Parable of the Talents, told in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke. The story suggests that people who invest in their gifts and talents will receive far greater rewards than those who simply allow them to stagnate. “God expects us to do the best we can with the talents He has given us,” she says.

]]>
Thu, 27 Feb 2014 00:00:00 -0800
4264:15149 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- Olympic dreams]]> Heather Reifsnyder Liel Marvyn Cerdenio, Terra Todd, and Sandra Niemiec are the three random winners from last week’s question about which department moved to the Professional Plaza about one year ago. The answer? Orthopedic surgery. Winners, please e-mail pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

Also located at the Professional Plaza? Loma Linda University PossAbilities, which is a free community outreach program offering disabled individuals support, a sense of community, and resources to stay active. Several members of PossAbilities are Paralympic hopefuls who want to compete in the 2016 Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Can you name in which sport any of these athletes plan to compete? 

E-mail the answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Tuesday, February 25, for a chance to win.

 

]]>
Thu, 20 Feb 2014 13:21:38 -0800
4264:15145 <![CDATA[LLUH on YouTube]]> Did you know LLUH has its own YouTube channel? View videos featuring LLUH’s hospitals and schools here.

www.youtube.com/lluhealth

]]>
Thu, 20 Feb 2014 12:28:27 -0800
4264:15143 <![CDATA[Promotion available for Jackie Evancho tickets]]> Tickets are still available for the Children’s Hospital Gala benefit concert at 8:00 p.m. March 13 at Citizens Business Bank Arena in Ontario. Child soprano Jackie Evancho will perform accompanied by the San Bernardino Symphony.

A $10 promotion is now available for the tickets, bring the cost down to $40 each. Group rates are also available.

Tickets can be purchased online at lomalindagala.org using promo code LLUCH10. They are also available for purchase at the Loma Linda University student services office with the promo code; an online service fee will not be charged for purchases made in person (cash or check only). The office is located at 11139 Anderson St., Loma Linda, 92350.

Evancho earned worldwide acclaim after competing and winning second place on NBC’s variety show “America’s Got Talent” in 2010. The young soprano from Pittsburgh has released three studio albums, performed for the royal family in Japan, and has performed for President Barack Obama on two separate occasions.

Joining Evancho on stage for a duet will be former LLU Children’s Hospital patient Hugo Ramos, age 14. A native to the Inland Empire, Ramos is a singer and musician who was one of the top six finalists on “La Voz Kids” on Telemundo in 2013 and won first place on “Niños con Talento” on Estrella TV.

To hear Jackie Evancho, watch this video of her performance on “America’s Got Talent.”

]]>
Thu, 20 Feb 2014 12:14:56 -0800
4264:15139 <![CDATA['Power of Inclusion' conference coming next month]]> Herbert Atienza A 5-K walk/run/roll will kick off, and an international food festival will cap off, the second annual “Power of Inclusion” conference at Loma Linda University Health. The annual event shines a light on diversity and inclusion as powerful ingredients that enrich learning and healing experiences while strengthening community relations.

Open to the public, this year’s conference theme, “Talent Has No Boundaries,” will highlight the important contributions that people with disabilities make to our society. It will bring together nationally renowned speakers and celebrities, including Academy Award winning actress Marlee Matlin and accomplished guitarist Tony Melendez, who was born without arms.

For a full program agenda with dates and times, location, and registration details, please visit the website, www.powerofinclusion.org

First this year is the staging of a 5K walk/run/roll on Sunday, March 16, which is expected to attract hundreds of racers, with and without disabilities, for a course around the city of Loma Linda. Registration starts at 6:30 a.m. at Loma Linda University Medical Center East Campus, 25333 Barton Road, Loma Linda.

The race will benefit Loma Linda University PossAbilities, a community outreach program for disabled community members. Proceeds from the race will go toward the PossAbilities grant and scholarship fund, which provides support for those with disabilities to improve their quality of life, assist in their reintegration to society, and lend resources to provide new direction and hope.

Pre-conference workshops on becoming cross culturally comfortable and competent will be held on Tuesday, March 18, followed by the two day conference, March 19 and 20.

Conference speakers will share their insights and provide practical guidance for leveraging and capitalizing on diversity and inclusion as a competitive community asset. Session topics include “Engaging with our Communities: A Collective Impact Model Driving Wellness and Prevention;” “Developing a Disability-Inclusive Workforce and Society;” and “That All May Worship: A Ramp is Not Enough.”

Among the speakers are Dr. Samuel Betances, diversity expert, motivational speaker, and best-selling author; Ginny Thornburgh, director of Interfaith Initiative at the American Association of People with Disabilities; John Kemp, president and CEO of The Viscardi Center in New York City; and Grace Odums, noted author and strategy consultant.

An International Food Festival, featuring foods from different parts of the world and live music, will mark the end of the conference. The food festival is from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 20, at the Loma Linda University Drayson Center, 25040 Stewart St., Loma Linda.

“We are delighted to follow last year’s very successful conference with another outstanding program. The uniqueness of our nation lies in the richness of backgrounds and characteristics of all who call America their home. It is a blessing that must be understood, celebrated, and tapped to its fullest potential. Diversity inspires creativity; inclusion promotes unity; and access provides opportunities for everyone,” says Cari Dominguez, PhD, senior vice president of human resources at LLUH.

]]>
Thu, 20 Feb 2014 11:58:47 -0800
4264:15136 <![CDATA[Covered California regional efforts kicked off at LLUH]]> Herbert Atienza Representatives of community groups working to enroll more San Bernardino County residents in affordable health insurance through Covered California kicked off their first regional meeting on February 12 at Loma Linda University Health.

About 40 people—representing dozens of community groups, stakeholders, health organizations, elected officials, and local health officials—took part in the gathering, hosted by LLUH.

Loma Linda University Health, in partnership with Community Clinic Association of San Bernardino County, is one of 48 lead organizations that received grant awards totaling $37 million from Covered California to help residents access affordable health coverage.

“LLUH wants to ensure the residents of the Inland Empire are informed regarding the historic changes in our health care system and know that we are getting our residents the coverage they need to improve and maintain their health,” says Gerald Winslow, PhD, vice president for mission and culture at LLUH, and director of the Institute for Health Policy and Leadership, the organizational entity responsible for administering the grant.

“One of the objectives of the regional meeting was to focus on increasing partnerships and collaboration within the region, and to share lessons learned from the first weeks of enrollment,” says Edith Lara-Trad, information officer at Covered California, and the regional coordinator for the effort.

“It is about the people who are in dire need of health coverage. We have about 40 days to continue mobilizing our efforts and enroll them now. One focus is to use in-person assistance to maximize enrollment,” she says.

Covered California is the state’s new health care insurance marketplace responsible for reaching out to 5.3 million Californians in need of individual insurance, many of whom may be eligible for financial assistance with the premiums.

The regional meeting provided opportunities for grantees, certified counselors, providers, community and health agencies, and elected officials to mingle and work in partnerships in existing enrollment events.

Lara-Trad says the challenge is to encourage more people to enroll by March 31, which is the deadline for open enrollment and for obtaining premium assistance and guaranteed health coverage.

She says, “We are focusing on key gaps. Latinos, African Americans, and other under-represented communities and young adults are especially targeted for enrollment.”

More information is available at www.CoveredCA.com.

Rosie Salazar, Covered California certified counselor at Inland Behavioral Health Services, attended the event because she wanted to expand her network and get ideas for getting more people to sign up for health insurance.

“We are in a community where we deal with many homeless and low-income people,” she says. “We do not want them to be left out of affordable health care.”

 

]]>
Thu, 20 Feb 2014 11:26:17 -0800
4264:15128 <![CDATA[Time to update emergency contact information]]> Beginning March 10, Loma Linda University Health employees will use PeoplePortal to manage emergency contact information.

Currently employees must update emergency contact information in both PeoplePortal and myLLU. The transition to PeoplePortal only will simplify updates, as well as eliminate mismatched or contradictory information, ensuring employees receive prompt communication in the event of a campus emergency.

Physicians, volunteers and students are unaffected by this change. Physicians and volunteers will continue to update their information in myLLU. Students will still use Banner Self Service.

With a drill scheduled for Monday, March 31, all employees should verify and update their emergency contact information, as well as check all other personal data in PeoplePortal is accurate.

See the guide below for instructions on how to check your information in PeoplePortal.

After the switchover to PeoplePortal, employees will be unable to make changes to contact information in myLLU.

To reset a PeoplePortal password, contact the appropriate helpdesk/service desk for assistance:

  • LLU Helpdesk, ext. 48611
  • MC Service desk, ext. 48889

For more information, call Human Resources IS at ext. 14114 or email peoplesoftsupport@llu.edu. HRIS hours are 8 a.m. through 5 p.m., Monday through Thursday; 8 a.m. through 2 p.m. Friday.

]]>
Wed, 19 Feb 2014 00:00:00 -0800
4264:15069 <![CDATA[Notes from the President]]> Richard Hart, MD, DrPH   February 2014
Living our mission

We had spent the night in a Lutheran mission guesthouse in the capital city of Ndjamena. Now we were loading into two rigs for an eight-hour ride south to Bere Adventist Hospital, a name that has become known to many. After the dry and sparse camel country of central Tchad, we slowed through the potholes and detours of the southern goat and sheep country. Our crowded seats became more and more uncomfortable as my mind went back to my first visit to Bere, some 12 years before. It was called Bere Health Center back then, and despite my many years of visiting facilities like this at the ends of the world’s roads, I still remember my discouragement at the first sight of the worn-out buildings, broken beds, dirty surroundings, and desperate patients.

Why do we do this, I wondered? Does God really expect His children to serve in such difficult settings? Could we even find a doctor who would work here? How would we support him or her? Is it safe? Do the people and government even want us? Those are all valid questions, ones we cannot and should not ignore.

Through the first half of the 1900s, the Adventist church started an average of two new mission hospitals a year in developing countries, mostly by Loma Linda graduates. Our graduates were called—driven, really—to do this. It was one of those primal urges—there was no river too deep nor hurdle too high to keep them from taking up this challenge. SO THEY WENT—TO EVERY CORNER OF THE WORLD.

But that was then and this is now! Do we still have that type of graduate? Is the need still justified? The issues are surely different in today’s world. Really? We still have more than half the world’s population surviving on no or minimal access to health care. Life expectancy at birth is under 50 years in many countries, with people dying from preventable diseases—millions alone from the big three infections of HIV/AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis.

It was only because of the confidence I had in Loma Linda and its graduates that I was even in Tchad. Experience had taught me that they would still go. Not only were they willing, you could not hold them back. One of those intrepid young physicians was just across the border in Cameroon during my first visit, held up by some immigration irregularity. James Appel finally made it to Bere, and many of you know the story of how he started with a solitary commitment and amazing courage. James gradually grew Bere Adventist Hospital into one of the busiest hospitals in the country. It was here he fell in love with a Danish nurse volunteer, Sarah, and their combined commitment to serve in Tchad has been an inspiration to many.

After some six years at Bere, James and Sarah indicated they wanted to pioneer another institution, take on another challenge. That raised two fundamental questions—could we support another hospital in Tchad? And who in the world would carry on at Bere? Though the hospital was now full, with a reputation that reached across national borders, it was still isolated, desperately hot much of the year, with intermittent power and non-potable water. My confidence in our grads was confirmed once again when another young couple stepped forward and said “Here we are, send us.” Olen and Danae Netteburg had met at Loma Linda, fell in love during their latter years here, married, and went into their residencies—he in emergency medicine, and she in obstetrics/gynecology. Now they were looking for their own challenge, their own destiny. I encouraged them to visit Bere to make sure. The visit didn’t shake them and plans were made to move to Bere about three years ago. Meanwhile James and Sarah prepared to start a new ambulatory surgery center in Moundou, the economic capital of Tchad, but a city with limited health care and little church presence.

As the workload expanded at Bere, Danae invited her dad, Rollin Bland—another LLU School of Medicine alumnus—to join them. Rollin and his wife, Dolores, had worked years before in Nigeria, so they knew some of what they were getting into. These three physicians, Olen, Danae, and Rollin, along with their growing support staff, have continued to grow Bere’s reputation. And this past year, a generous donor added more than 20 new preformed buildings to serve as staff homes, guest rooms, classrooms, operating rooms, and delivery suites, etc. The capacity of Bere Adventist Hospital is now taking a giant leap forward to meet the growing needs of southern Tchad.

Our recent visit in late January was to hold board meetings for Adventist Health International–Tchad, dedicate the growing facility at Moundou, lay plans for the future of both institutions, and encourage our team on the ground. As usually happens, a successful hospital has added collateral programs. Rural health education programs are underway, led by LLU School of Public Health alumni. Gary and Wendy Roberts moved to Bere after James and Sarah were established and started a church planting and Bible training program. Gary brought his Cessna 172, built a hanger and airstrip, and now covers a wide swath of central Africa with his ministry. Both a primary and a secondary school are now also thriving at Bere—still basic by most standards, but providing daily Christian education for more than 600 students. It was my privilege to preach in the Bere church, where the benches are crowded, the youth are active, and God is glorified.

Unspeakable tragedies

But great successes are often accompanied by great sacrifice and pain. And Bere is no exception. Caleb Roberts died from malaria at age 4, and then two years ago, Adam Appel, one of James and Sarah’s twins, also died of malaria. Since then we have also lost Minnie Pardillo, a volunteer social worker from the Philippines. These great tragedies tear at the heart, making one question everything about serving abroad. It makes one angry at malaria, that great killer of so many even today. One also gets lost in the “what if?” questions.

It is with profound respect that we recognize what those simple graves in Bere mean, not only to their own families, but also to all of us. While death lingers so close in places like Bere for the local people, somehow it shouldn’t touch us. But it did. All of us. So while Wendy and Gary, and James and Sarah, carry on in Tchad, occasionally blinking back tears, we all must carry the burden of the world’s suffering. The needs have not gone away. The gospel call is as alive and urgent today as it was back then. And God doesn’t say to only go where it is safe. I imagine the Apostle Paul had trouble getting travel insurance for his voyages so long ago.

Our Adventist Health Interational–Tchad board meetings went well. Plans are being made to strengthen each institution and lay bold plans for the future. Another LLU School of Medicine grad, Scott Gardner, has come to take over the Moundou Adventist Surgery Center. Along with his wife, Bekki, they are stepping into James and Sarah’s shoes, while the Appels have set their hearts on yet another new site, far to the northeast of Tchad, where Islam is prevailing and the Darfur refugees from Sudan seek safety. James has been invited by a prominent Muslim family to start a new health care facility there at a place called Abougoudam, a name not found on any map!

So is rural Tchad worth the energy and time of five Loma Linda physicians? Have they found meaning in what they do? I can assure you that they don’t question their own involvement. They have chosen to be there, chosen to serve in this way. And the steady stream of other Loma Linda students and graduates who pass through Bere, and now Moundou, leave with a profound respect for their example of selfless service. Join me in holding up these families in our prayers.

Office of the President, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350

Copyright © 2014 by Loma Linda University

llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 13 Feb 2014 13:07:14 -0800
4264:15061 <![CDATA[Healthy People in Healthy Communities conference]]> Briana Pastorino Loma Linda University School of Public Health is hosting the first Healthy People in Healthy Communities (HPHC), a three-day conference focusing on lifestyle medicine and the built environment, in March. The theme this year will be healthy kids.

Award-winning and bestselling authors Richard Louv and Jeff Speck have been confirmed as the two keynote speakers for the event.

The conference, presented by Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital, will be held March 4-5, 2014, on the Loma Linda University campus. An introductory day at ESRI in Redlands will be held on March 3.

Jeff Speck, author of “Walkable City: How Downtown Can Save America, One Step at a Time,” will speak on Tuesday, March 4. 

Richard Louv, author of the award-winning books "Last Child in the Woods" and "Nature Principle," has started an international movement that seeks to restore the gap between children and nature. 

Both Speck and Louv will be offering book signings during the event.

The conference theme this year spotlights children’s health in the community, bringing together a multi-disciplinary group of academics, policy leaders, educators, GIS experts, and children’s advocates. This facilitates interdisciplinary efforts by people of diverse backgrounds and interests to reframe the conversations around health and the built environment.

Looking to the interrelated web of factors that shape development from the pre-natal period and throughout the life course, the conference program highlights a number of key topics at the intersection of health and environment, including epigenetics, nutrition, air quality, community design, the media, and family situation.

“Healthy People in Healthy Communities will be an opportunity for community partners and leaders to identify how we can work together to fill the gaps in the lifestyles of our children,” says Donna Gurule, MPH, chair of the HPHC scientific committee and the environmental health and geoinformatics sciences department at LLU School of Public Health.

A special half-day event at ESRI headquarters on March 3 is geared toward geoinformatic specialists and those interested in learning how geoinformatics is changing the face of health care and public health.

HPHC is the consolidation of two established School of Public Health events: Healthy People—the premier conference on lifestyle medicine—and Healthy Communities by Design—an innovative forum on the built environment and geographic information systems.

Registration for the event is now open. All registration includes continuing education credit. To register, please visit www.HealthyPeopleConference.org. For more information on the event, call Krystal Gheen at LLU School of Public Health, (909) 558-4595.

]]>
Thu, 13 Feb 2014 12:37:09 -0800
4264:15060 <![CDATA[The sheriff's deputy saved at LLU Medical Center]]>  

San Bernardino Sheriff’s Deputy Alex Collins was injured one year ago on February 12 during a deadly shootout in Big Bear in the Christopher Dorner manhunt. Collins was treated at LLU Medical Center and continues to receive treatment at the LLU School of Dentistry. To mark the anniversary, CBS 2 in Los Angeles came to campus February 5 and 9 to interview physicians Barth Riedel and Lorra Sharp, who restored Collins’ ability to walk and use his arm. The video aired this week.

 Watch the clip at http://cbsloc.al/1hgAp1e.

]]>
Thu, 13 Feb 2014 12:34:16 -0800
4264:15058 <![CDATA[Annual compliance training]]> In an effort to be proactive, some employees have been prematurely attempting to complete their required compliance training for 2014.

The official compliance training period entities is April 1 through October 31. This applies to employees, faculty physicians, and medical residents of LLU Medical Center, East Campus, Heart & Surgical Hospital, Behavioral Medicine Center, LLU Shared Services, LLU Health Care, LLUMC–Murrieta, and SACHS.

Because new hires are required to take the training within 60 days from their hire date, only they will receive credit for training completed during the period of November 1, 2013 and March 31, 2014.

Beginning April 1, employees will receive credit toward their 2014 compliance requirements for courses they complete. Employees should wait until then to begin their training requirements, which includes HIPAA and compliance courses.

With the exception of new hires, employees should be advised that if attempts are made to take the training before April 1, they will encounter the following error message: “You have reached the maximum number of attempts.”

For more information, call ext. 66310 or ext. 14205. 

]]>
Thu, 13 Feb 2014 12:22:35 -0800
4264:15056 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- the doctor's office]]> Heather Reifsnyder Sheila Klein, Courtney Clark-Marquez, and Graciela Galvez are the three random winners who correctly answered last week’s question. The major building that opened in 1979, on September 4 specifically, was the Faculty Medical Offices. Winners, e-mail pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

Another place on campus for sick and injured outpatients to see a doctor is the Professional Plaza. Almost one year ago, in March 2013, one medical department relocated its office to the Professional Plaza. Can you name which office that was? 

E-mail the answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight on Tuesday, February 18, for a chance to win.

 

 

]]>
Thu, 13 Feb 2014 12:19:10 -0800
4264:14958 <![CDATA['Loma Linda saved my life twice']]> Advancement films ]]> Newton Bennen says Loma Linda saved his life not once, but twice. Listen as he describes why he’s such a big fan of LLUH.

]]>
Thu, 06 Feb 2014 12:16:53 -0800
4264:14955 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week -- to the nines]]> Heather Reifsnyder

Last week’s question was about helipad history. The first helipad at Loma Linda University Medical Center opened October 26, 1969, with a landing area of 54 square feet. The first patient to be brought to it was a construction worker who had been injured on a job site in the mountains near Crestline. Transported by Rialto-based Western Helicopters, he was in the emergency room within 30 minutes of the call.

The three random winners to correctly answer 1969 were Kristina Larios, Christian Rodriguez, and Rachel E. Gonzalez. E-mail pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

Ten years later, in 1979, a major building opened on campus. Which building was that? E-mail the answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight on Tuesday, February 11, for a chance to win. 

]]>
Thu, 06 Feb 2014 11:53:41 -0800
4264:14953 <![CDATA[Annual asbestos notice]]> Loma Linda University Health employees are hereby notified of the presence of asbestos-containing materials in campus buildings. While such notification is required by California Health & Safety Code 25915 et seq., LLUH is committed to maintaining a safe and healthy work and learning environment.                   

The department of environmental health and safety conducts on-going building surveys to identify and safely manage previously installed asbestos-containing products. Furthermore, all renovation of campus buildings must be reviewed in advance by the department of environmental health and safety to ensure that no asbestos-containing materials are disturbed without proper safeguards. Work that requires removal or repair of such materials is restricted to trained and qualified persons only.     

Asbestos is a common name given to a group of mineral fibers that occur naturally and have been incorporated into a variety of construction products such as wall and ceiling plasters, floor tile, pipe insulation, and asphalt roofing. These materials pose no risk to health unless they are disturbed in such a way that asbestos fibers become airborne, are inhaled, and deposited within the lungs. Increased incidence of several illnesses including asbestosis, a debilitating lung disease, lung cancer and mesothelioma, a rare cancer of the lung or stomach cavity lining, have been observed in individuals who were persistently exposed to high levels of airborne asbestos in work environments such as mining, milling, shipbuilding, construction, and manufacturing.

Use the following measures to protect you and others from exposure to airborne asbestos:

• Presume all building materials contain asbestos until determined otherwise by the department of environmental health and safety. Do not remove, cut, drill, sand, grind, or otherwise disturb any material that may contain asbestos.

• Do not go above ceilings, behind walls, or into building spaces such as attics and crawlspaces unless these areas have been inspected and cleared by environmental health and safety.

• Do not pull cable or wiring through above-ceiling spaces with asbestos.

• Do not install screws, pins, nails, or hangers into asbestos ceiling or wall plasters.

• Be careful not to damage walls, ceilings, or floors when moving furniture or equipment.

• Do not brush, sweep, or vacuum textured asbestos ceiling plaster or plaster debris.

• Immediately report any observed damage or deterioration of suspect building materials to your supervisor, safety coordinator, property manager, facilities manager, or environmental health and safety.   

For more information, call (909) 651-4019.

]]>
Thu, 06 Feb 2014 11:48:43 -0800
4264:14951 <![CDATA[Long-term success of pediatric heart transplants]]> Briana Pastorino A study led by a team of experts from Loma Linda University Health concludes that pediatric heart transplantation provides acceptable long-term survival beyond 15 years. The story was picked up by media outlets including “U.S. News & World Report” online.

Hannah Copeland, MD, the lead author of the study, “Pediatric Recipient Survival Beyond 15 Post-Heart Transplant Years:  A Single Center Experience,” presented the findings at the Society of Thoracic Surgeons 50th Annual Conference on January 28 in Orlando.

“Ultimately, our research suggests that pediatric heart transplantation offers children who need it the opportunity to survive,” Copeland said at the press conference. "While major challenges still exist for long-term survival in children, [with] close surveillance, lifelong monitoring, and … advances in immunosuppression medications, the lifespan of the patient can be prolonged."

Copeland, a thoracic surgery fellow at Loma Linda University Medical Center, and her research team conducted a retrospective review of 337 pediatric cardiac patients who underwent heart transplantation between 1985 and 1998 at LLUMC. Of those, 183 lived at least 15 years, and 151 are still alive experiencing good outcomes.

“The average adult survival rate following heart transplantation currently is 10 years," Copeland said. "We studied survival rates beyond 15 years for pediatric heart transplant patients to learn more about quality of life and factors that led to improved survival."

Copeland revealed that pediatric heart transplant is not a cure, but “a chance at life. Our study demonstrates that pediatric heart transplant patients who live more than 15 years post-surgery can expect to have reasonable cardiac function and quality of life."

In addition to Copeland, the research team included Anees Razzouk, MD; Richard Chinnock, MD; Nahidh Hasaniya, MD, PhD; and Leonard Bailey, MD. Bailey pioneered infant heart transplantation at Loma Linda University Medical Center in 1984 after implanting the heart of a baboon into a girl known as Baby Fae. The first human-to-human heart transplant occurred in 1985 and the patient, known as Baby Moses, is still alive and healthy today.

]]>
Thu, 06 Feb 2014 11:45:19 -0800
4264:14946 <![CDATA[Nichol Hall open house to reveal new rotunda]]> Heather Reifsnyder The rotunda of Nichol Hall welcomes students and visitors into a storied building whose history dates back to 1928–29, when it was built as a new home for the Loma Linda Sanitarium and Hospital.

The building—now home to the School of Public Health and School of Allied Health Professions—has undergone many expansions and renovations, the latest of which has been an update in elegance for the rotunda. 

Or rather, it is a return to its original glory, as guests will see during an open house February 19 from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. The whole campus is invited, with special invitations extended to people born in Nichol Hall, all past deans of public health and allied health, current Nichol Hall employees, and the Loma Linda University Health councilors. 

The restoration of the rotunda has included removing carpet to reveal the original marble and quartz terrazzo flooring and embedded Loma Linda Sanitarium seal. Wooden ceiling beams have been added to accent the rotunda’s shape and original design. Other details include new arched doors and furniture, refurbished bathrooms, and a display of historical photographs, which all come together in a blend of art deco and mission styles. Architects also restored the wrought-ironwork front door.

The February 19 open house will show all this off, but the event is not just about the building. It is about all the people who have lived out part of their lives there.

In order to incorporate stories and details about them and their time in Nichol Hall, event organizers would love to hear from people born there or who worked there.

For more information or to share memories of Nichol Hall, please contact Kent Chow at kchow@llu.edu or (909) 558-4973. 

]]>
Thu, 06 Feb 2014 11:36:30 -0800
4264:14944 <![CDATA[Children's Hospital Gala to feature Jackie Evancho]]> The Children’s Hospital Foundation is pleased to announce the 2014 Annual Foundation Gala, “I’m Possible,” featuring a benefit concert by Jackie Evancho and the San Bernardino Symphony at the Citizens Business Bank Arena in Ontario, California, on March 13.

Benefit concert tickets will be available to the general public for $50 and VIP arena tickets (for full access to gala and benefit concert) are available for $100. For more information on how the campus can work together to create tomorrow’s healthy kids, visit www.LomaLindaGala.org.

Evancho earned worldwide acclaim after competing and winning second place on NBC’s variety show “America’s Got Talent” in 2010. The young soprano from Pittsburgh has released three studio albums, performed for the royal family in Japan, and has performed for President Barack Obama on two separate occasions.

Joining Evancho on stage for a duet will be former LLU Children’s Hospital patient Hugo Ramos, age 14. A native to the Inland Empire, Ramos is a singer and musician who was one of the top six finalists on “La Voz Kids” on Telemundo in 2013 and won first place on “Niños con Talento” on Estrella TV.

To hear Jackie Evancho, watch this video of her performance on “America’s Got Talent.”

]]>
Thu, 06 Feb 2014 11:28:53 -0800
4264:14873 <![CDATA[Wholeness plan -- additional appointments available]]> Nancy Yuen The new LLUH wholeness plan took effect January 1, 2014. Enhanced benefits for those enrolled in the wholeness plan include 100 percent coverage with no employee copayment for most preventive services provided on the Loma Linda campus.

With two months left to complete the health risk assessment and biometric screening, 58.9 percent of the 11,659 employees who are covered under the wholeness plan have completed their health risk assessment. Forty-seven percent have scheduled their biometric screening.

The actual numbers are: 6,870 people have completed their health risk assessment and 2,277 people have completed their biometric screening. An additional 5,481 employees and spouses have made their appointment.

While these numbers are encouraging, employees and their spouses who wish to remain in the wholeness plan must complete the process during the first quarter of 2014. Additional appointments for the biometric screening are now available. The appointments run through the end of March. Spouses must also complete the process; and a variety of times during the weekend and after work are available.

The plan does not currently apply to LLU employees or Murrieta employees (except those stationed there who work for LLUMC).

Thank you to everyone who has completed the process. Employees and spouses who have enrolled in the wholeness plan but have not yet completed the HRA and scheduled their biometric screening are encouraged to do so as soon as possible.

The HRA website is: https://LLUH-HRA.com. The HRA and biometrics user’s guide, which includes step-by-step instructions is posted here: https://peopleportal.llu.edu. Click on this link to access the January 2, 2014 News of the Week article, “Action required for new health plans,” which includes additional information: http://myllu.llu.edu/newsoftheweek/story/?id=14396.

*This requirement does not apply to the Loma Linda University or Murrieta employee Health Plans.

]]>
Thu, 30 Jan 2014 11:38:35 -0800
4264:14872 <![CDATA[Security department has new location]]> Heather Reifsnyder The department of security is now located in the new parking structure at the northeast corner of the lower level, 11206 Campus Street, suite A.

The former location at 24690 University Avenue is closed.

For more information about the department of security, call its new number at (909) 558-5419 or ext. 55419.

]]>
Thu, 30 Jan 2014 11:27:55 -0800
4264:14870 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week]]> Heather Reifsnyder Judging by the slow response to last week’s question, it appears that not many people know where to find the nameplate gable from the original Loma Linda Sanitarium on campus. Next time you’re in the main lobby of the Del E. Webb Memorial Library, look up. It’s pretty. Our three random winners who knew this are Jean Burgdorff, Elwood Siagian, and Marlise D. Perry. Please send an e-mail to pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

Something else one can see on campus by looking up are helicopters bringing patients to Loma Linda University Medical Center. What year did the first helipad on top of the Medical Center open?

E-mail the correct answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight on Monday, February 3, for a chance to win. Hint: It was more than 40 but less than 50 years ago. 

]]>
Thu, 30 Jan 2014 11:20:03 -0800
4264:14867 <![CDATA[Coming to local TV: Children's Hospital PSA]]> Advancement films ]]> Be the first to see this 30-second public service announcement about the March 13 Children’s Hospital Foundation Gala. Information on ticket purchases for the gala is coming soon.

]]>
Thu, 30 Jan 2014 10:33:22 -0800
4264:14865 <![CDATA[Learn about Covered California]]> Heather Reifsnyder The LLU Institute for Health Policy and Leadership will offer a lunchtime presentation February 11 about the impact of health care reform on patients, hospitals, and providers. The free session is open to staff, faculty, and students.

Wonha Kim, MD, MPH, will be the featured speaker, and the session will also include a Q&A panel with Covered California trained staff. Kim is senior research scholar at the LLU Institute for Health Policy and Leadership.

Lunch will be provided for the first 60 participants.

The session is scheduled from noon to 12:50 p.m. on February 11 in the A-level amphitheater at Loma Linda University Medical Center.

For more information, e-mail ihpl@llu.edu or call ext. 47793.

]]>
Thu, 30 Jan 2014 09:58:36 -0800
4264:14810 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week]]> Heather Reifsnyder The Heritage Research Center is the place to be. Congratulations to winners Sherry Resendez, Christina Purifoy, and Anuradha Diekmann, who each correctly answered that the Heritage Research Center at the Del E. Webb Memorial Library is home to the Loma Linda Branch of the Ellen G. White Estate, along with the department of archives and special collections. Winners, send an e-mail to pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days.

Speaking of both heritage and where things are located, the nameplate gable from the original Loma Linda Sanitarium was preserved and is displayed on campus. The wooden triangle sign, painted in brown and gold with decorative filigree, can be seen where on campus?

For the chance to be a random winner, send the correct answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Monday, January 27. 

]]>
Thu, 23 Jan 2014 12:21:40 -0800
4264:14809 <![CDATA[LLU is home to 5 Gates Scholars]]> Heather Reifsnyder Five School of Public Health students from Loma Linda University have been named Gates Millennium Scholars. The Gates scholars program is funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

The program selects 1,000 students each year to receive a good-through-graduation scholarship at any college or university of their choice. The Gates scholars who call Loma Linda University home are:

Aaron Matthew De Leon
Margarita Diaz
Aunamesha Tanganyikia Henley
Jamie Antwon Murkey
Rochelle Rose Tuttle 

Since its inception, the Gates Millennium Scholars program has awarded a total of $1,096,771 to Loma Linda University.

“We are fortunate to work in partnership with such distinguished institutions as Loma Linda University and are grateful for your continued support of the students we have in common,” said Larry Griffith, senior vice president of the United Negro College Fund, which administers the Gates program.

In addition to financial support, the Gates Millennium Scholars program provides personal and professional development to its students through leadership programs along with academic support. 

]]>
Thu, 23 Jan 2014 12:01:43 -0800
4264:14806 <![CDATA[A journalist's take on Loma Linda University Health]]> Advancement films ]]> What makes Loma Linda special to Joan Lunden? The former co-host of ABC's "Good Morning America" and keynote speaker at the 2014 LLUH Women's Conference takes her hat off to you.

]]>
Thu, 23 Jan 2014 11:11:51 -0800
4264:14803 <![CDATA[2014 info on environmental health & safety requirements]]> Heather Reifsnyder The annual employee BLUE book online training is accompanied by filling out a pesticide form each year and completing hands-on fire extinguisher training every three years.

The 2014 fire extinguisher training schedule is now available on the environmental health and safety website; click here. Clicking on the “Regular Schedule & Registration” link under “Fire Extinguisher Training” will lead directly to the Owl Portal where one can see the schedule and register for a class. Employees who delay in completing the hands-on training every three years may see effects in their annual performance evaluation. 

Employees may request a fire extinguisher training update report by emailing their cost center or ID number to EHS@llu.edu. Please include “FET” in the subject line.

New in 2014, the annual pesticide form is now paperless. Every employee should click on the “Pesticide Form” link at the end of the BLUE book training and complete the form online.

Why is this form necessary? The Department of Agriculture defines any sanitizer/disinfectant, insecticide, fungicide, or herbicide as a pesticide. Loma Linda University Health is required to document annual training on the use of pesticides for every employee.

For more information, please contact Julia Fisher in environmental health & safety at ext. 58150 or EHS@llu.edu.

The department of environmental health and safety also maintains a “Speaking of Safety” blog where readers can learn more about preventing hazards at work and home, understanding safety regulations, and more.

The blog is available here.

]]>
Thu, 23 Jan 2014 10:42:57 -0800
4264:14802 <![CDATA[W-2 statements ]]> Heather Reifsnyder W-2 statements are available online here for employees who have previously elected to receive them electronically. 

Employees who still receive hard copies will get theirs in the mail, postmarked by January 31. Duplicate copies will be available upon request starting February 10 for a $10 processing fee.

For more information:
payroll@llu.edu
(909) 651-4004 or ext. 14004

]]>
Thu, 23 Jan 2014 10:40:30 -0800
4264:14796 <![CDATA[Women empowered during LLUH Women's Conference]]> Briana Pastorino  “We all have the power to change our lives,” award-winning journalist Joan Lunden told the sold-out crowd of 1,000 women at the 6th annual LLUH Women’s Conference, titled “Be You! Fit, smart, healthy.” The event was held Friday, January 17 at the Ontario Convention Center.

“We can empower our lives,” Lunden said during her keynote address. “We are the author of our lives, and we hold the pen to write our next chapter.” The motivational speaker, a successful entrepreneur and mom of seven, received a standing ovation as she left the stage after her inspiring speech.

“Joan Lunden was awesome and amazing,” says first-time conference attendee, Rolinda Luevano of Loma Linda. “Women of any age could relate to and be inspired by her.” Luevano enjoyed the day with her daughter and loved every aspect of the event.

“There were so many breakout session options it was hard to choose,” she admitted, before deciding on “De-clutter 101: from chaos to clarity,” and “Slaying the sugar-toothed tiger: strategies to tame sugar (and other food cravings).” After the event, Luevano spent most of her weekend sharing valuable information with family and friends. “I’m looking forward to coming again next year,” she says.

 “This event is all about being smart, healthy and confident women,” says Beverly Rigsby, MBA, service line director for GYN women’s services at Loma Linda University Medical Center. “We want every woman to have the power to live a healthy and successful life, and we hope the information and tools provided during the conference will inspire them to be their absolute best.”

The day provided morning and afternoon breakout sessions with experts on topics including nutrition, avoiding medical misdiagnosis, mental illness, conquering stress, financial wellbeing, and exercise.

Attendees also had access to various health screenings - such as blood pressure, bone density, fall risk, oral cancer, and mental health screenings - and assessments including body fat, and orthopaedic surgery. There was also a pamper suite that offered massages, beauty treatments, wig try-ons, and bra fittings.

The invigorating day included recognition ceremonies honoring local community leaders and cancer survivors, Inland Women Fighting Cancer; and Kim Carter, who founded the Time for Change Foundation, which has helped more than 600 families make the transition from homelessness to self-sufficiency.

]]>
Thu, 23 Jan 2014 10:23:34 -0800
4264:14732 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week]]> Heather Reifsnyder & Nancy Yuen It’s time Dr. Lucinda Marsh gets some attention. Last week we asked if people could identify either of the two female physicians who were part of the 15 original faculty members of the College of Medical Evangelists in 1909. Answer: Drs. Julia White and Lucinda Marsh. However, of all the people who answered correctly, only one named Dr. Marsh.

The randomly chosen winners of a small prize, which must be picked up within 60 days, are Heather Powers, Phyllis Carrell, and Adrian Anderson. E-mail pr@llu.edu to claim your prize.

While we’re on the subject of women with the last name of White, let’s turn to Ellen White, the Seventh-day Adventist pioneer and author who was essential in the founding of Loma Linda University Health. The Ellen G. White Estate, the custodial agent of her body of writing, is based at Adventist headquarters in Silver Spring, Maryland, but with a branch here at Loma Linda University. The Loma Linda branch has a complete collection of Ellen White’s published and unpublished writings. 

While administratively separate, the Loma Linda branch office works closely with the Del E. Webb Memorial Library department of archives and special collections. Together they form what LLU center?

E-mail the answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight on Monday, January 20, for a chance to win.

]]>
Thu, 16 Jan 2014 12:13:26 -0800
4264:14731 <![CDATA[Administrative changes announced]]> By Larry Kidder Five individuals have been named to new or existing leadership posts at Loma Linda University Health (LLUH), and one has announced his departure.

Ravi Mandapati, MD, recently began his new role as director of the Loma Linda University International Heart Institute. Peter Baker, JD, MBA, began his service to Loma Linda University Health System as vice president for business development. Both started in December 2013.

At the beginning of January, Daniel Fontoura, MBA, took on a leadership role in the areas of wellness and disease prevention for all LLUH enterprises. Richard Rajaratnam, MD, began his duties in December, heading the LLUH office of clinical transformation. His official title is yet to be finalized.

Carolyn Hamilton has been named vice president for philanthropy and began her new role on January 1.

Zareh Sarrafian recently announced his departure from LLU Children’s Hospital, effective January 10.

Ravi Mandapati

For more than a decade, Ravi Mandapati, MD, served as director of pediatric cardiac electrophysiology at Loma Linda University Medical Center. He is professor of pediatrics (cardiology) for LLU School of Medicine. Widely published, his research focuses on mapping the mechanisms of atrial fibrillation and arrhythmias in patients with congenital cardiac disease.

Mandapati is a fellow of the Heart Rhythm Society, as well as a professor of medicine and co-director of the University of California, Los Angeles Cardiac Arrhythmia Center. He completed fellowships in pediatric cardiology and electrophysiology at the State University of New York, Syracuse and Harvard University respectively.

“Dr. Mandapati brings a wealth of experience and leadership skills to the International Heart Institute,” says Mark Reeves, MD, PhD, vice president of institutes for LLUH.

According to colleagues, that includes a passion for high-quality cardiac care and a demonstrated track record of consensus-building. He succeeds Ranae Larsen, MD, as director. During Larsen’s four-year tenure as director, the institute took significant strides toward consolidating clinical services and expanding its regional footprint.

Peter Baker

As new vice president for business development for Loma Linda University Health System, Peter Baker, JD, MBA, is working to create a health care network of physicians and hospitals in Riverside and San Bernardino to assist LLUH in implementing population health management.

Previously vice president for business development at Glendale Adventist Medical Center, he served on a team that helped to launch Loma Linda University Medical Center–Murrieta.

Steven Mohr, MBA, chief financial officer for LLUMC, attests, “Peter brings an openness to learn more about our organization, a focus on mission that links directly with LLUH, and a knowledge base that will cross-pollinate our understanding of the market and business development tools with what he has learned during his time with Adventist Health.” 

Daniel Fontoura

As the health care climate in the U.S. shifts toward disease prevention, Daniel Fontoura, MBA, currently senior vice president at LLUMC, has been tasked with the new role of vice president for wellness and chief wellness officer for Loma Linda University Health, bringing together thought leaders across the LLUH enterprise and creating a unified message and brand of wellness and disease prevention.

“There is a great legacy and widespread passion surrounding health and wellness on our campus,” Fontoura points out. “My role will be in helping LLUH develop strategic clarity around the unique and multi-dimensional wellness expertise that exists across LLUH, facilitating the packaging of that know-how, and making it accessible to a community and a world desperately in need of whole-person health and wellness.”

Fontoura believes that LLUH has all of the pieces of wellness and disease prevention. “Now it’s time to put the puzzle together,” he suggests.

His new role of leading enterprise-wide health and wellness efforts has already resulted in many meetings with thought leaders in the health, wellness, and disease prevention domains. “I’m finding an incredible wealth of ideas, energy, and support for system-wide coordination of resources to expand the reach and impact of LLUH,” he observes.

Jill Pollock, administrator of Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center, has agreed to be administrator of University Hospital on an interim basis.

Richard Rajaratnam

Richard Rajaratnam, MD, now leads the clinical transformation efforts for LLUH. In this new role, he will help to integrate health care delivery across all LLUH entities in terms of quality, service, access, and affordability.

Rajaratnam most recently served as medical director of Kaiser Permanente, Riverside, as well as the Southern California Permanente Medical Group (SCPMG). In that role, he managed the entire service area of Riverside County. Prior to that, he chaired the departments of otolaryngology and head and neck surgery for Kaiser Permanente, Riverside, and SCPMG.

Carolyn Hamilton

Carolyn Hamilton recently joined the LLUH department of advancement as vice president for philanthropy. In this new leadership role, she will be responsible for providing leadership to the capital campaign team and managing principal gift relationships.

Hamilton is founding partner of The Hamilton Company, a consulting firm that, for the past 25 years, has served a variety of non-profit organizations, providing fundraising counsel and leadership development for community organizations, as well as education, health care, and worldwide ministries.

Not new to Loma Linda University Health, Hamilton began her career in Loma Linda following graduation from Pacific Union College, working in both philanthropy and public relations.

While in the Loma Linda area, she and her husband founded Inland Temporary Homes, which continues to serve homeless families in the Inland Empire.

Hamilton is a certified fundraising professional (CFRE) and an active volunteer and advocate in the non-profit arena, frequently presenting at national and internation conferences. She has published numerous articles about philanthropy.

Zareh Sarrafian

Zareh Sarrafian, MBA, announced his decision to leave Loma Linda University Health, effective January 10.

Over a span of 20 years at the institution, Sarrafian has held a number of key leadership positions, including recent roles as administrator of Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital and chief administrative officer for Loma Linda University Medical Center.

During that time, he has led in a variety of key initiatives to improve both the operational and financial health of the organization. He has also served as the driving force for organizing LLU Children’s Hospital Foundation and the Big Hearts for Little Hearts Guilds.

Ruthita Fike, MA, chief executive officer for Loma Linda University Medical Center, will assume interim leadership of the Children’s Hospital, working closely with physician leadership and the administrative team.

“On behalf of the entire organization,” Fike notes, “I would like to express my deepest gratitude to Zareh for his unwavering commitment to serving God through his work at Loma Linda.”

She adds, “For years to come, LLUH will benefit from his contributions and countless hours of steadfast service. We wish him well in his future endeavors.”

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health, adds, “Zareh’s leadership and deep, personal commitment to Loma Linda on behalf of the children in the Inland Empire have truly made a lasting difference in many lives.”

Interim position

Judy Storfjell, PhD, senior VP for patient care services/chief nursing officer, has agreed to be administrator of the emergency department on an interim basis.

]]>
Thu, 16 Jan 2014 12:08:17 -0800
4264:14728 <![CDATA[Notes from the President]]> Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
January 2014
The New Year

I am too old and jaded to get excited anymore about New Year’s Eve and resolutions. Usually Judy and I are in bed at our usual hour, and get up on the first day of the New Year at our usual 5’ish time. I know, that’s pretty bad, but it is what it is.

Despite that nod to the aging process, there is something special about a new slate, a fresh road, an uncharted course, which we are all going to go down together. And when you have the privilege of looking across an entire institution, cast against a 100-plus year history of challenges and successes, you tend to reflect and wonder. Will this be a good year for Loma Linda? What crises will we face? What will be recorded in the history book of time? What will be etched on our Centennial Pathway about 2014?

Let me run the risk of commenting on, even trying to predict, some of what 2014 might bring. Some of these events are already unfolding. Certainly the changing face of health care in this country will affect Loma Linda greatly. As the largest private provider of Medicaid (MediCal) services in this state, Loma Linda can expect a major impact from a change as significant as the Affordable Care Act. Theoretically, the planned decrease in Medicare reimbursement rates will be offset by new coverage provided to those who now come to us without any ability to pay. It is estimated that there will be an additional 200,000 to 300,000 people in the Inland Empire area of Southern California who will now be eligible for health care. With the narrow margins of profitability in health care that we all experience today, it will be very important that we monitor these changes very carefully as we move into this new paradigm.

There will be some major physical changes on campus. The Centennial Bridge is to be completed by May, once again making our campus contiguous. I believe you will all enjoy both the convenience and beauty of this new structure and associated landscaping. This will also allow us to permanently close the old University Avenue to vehicular traffic and once again make the Norman Woods Walkway a relaxing center of the campus for walking, visiting, and just enjoying the great California outdoors.

We also plan to dedicate our latest sculpture during graduation events, titled “This is the Very Place.” It commemorates the moment when Ellen White, our founder, first visited Loma Linda and recognized that she had seen this very setting in a vision several years before. She had selected Loma Linda for a daring new type of health care institution and professional training center, in direct contrast to the practices of the day. This was done at the very time that the federal government had appointed Abraham Flexner to shut down many of the medical schools in America due to their poor quality.

Our plans for the San Bernardino Campus are also taking shape. One group is working on the financial plans and building design, while another is sorting out all of the relationships that are expected in this new partnership. Our 7¼-acre parcel of land is along the freeway in downtown San Bernardino, and we hope to begin construction in the next few months. Our goals are to establish a major clinical facility to host SAC Health System, together with a “Gateway College” that will work with the San Bernardino City Unified School District to provide young people with job entry skills to the health professions. The enthusiasm in the city and school system is palpable, and we look forward to cementing this growing relationship.

But more than buildings, it is people who make Loma Linda what it is. And we have several major transitions taking place that I want to share with you. I mentioned earlier that Danny Fontoura has transitioned to our new VP for wellness position. In this capacity, he will lead out in bringing together the various health promotion programs on campus, as well as the development of a new institute that will coordinate lifestyle, wholeness, and wellness initiatives. We will also develop new programs and strategies that can focus and implement more effectively a culture of wellness that contributes to a productive and enjoyable lifestyle and longevity for our students, faculty, and staff.

We have also added Dr. Richard Rajaratnam to our leadership group. Dr. Raj, as we know him, trained here at Loma Linda and has worked for Kaiser Permanente for many years. He now returns to head up our new office of clinical transformation (OCT). In this role, he will collaborate with Dr. Jim Pappas, head of our patient safety and reliability workgroup; Dr. Todd Martell, working in the Faculty Medical Offices; and Dr. Judy Storfjell, our chief nursing officer and senior VP for patient care services. Together we expect this group to be a major think tank on how to improve our systems, making them more effective and efficient. We must continue to make progress on accessibility and managing patient flow, preparing for bundled payment protocols, quality patient care, evidence-based treatment protocols, value-based purchasing, etc.

Another major change will be the departure of Zareh Sarrafian. Zareh has been an integral part of our Medical Center for 20 years, and he is perhaps best recognized for his leadership of our Children’s Hospital. Zareh has also served as chair of the board of the California Children’s Hospital Association, championing children’s issues throughout the state. He has helped our own Children’s Hospital become well recognized for the quality of its services as it has become the destination of choice for all components of child care.In more recent years, Zareh has also helped orchestrate operations at our three adult hospitals in Loma Linda—the University Hospital, the East Campus rehabilitation hospital, and the Heart & Surgical Hospital. His wide-ranging knowledge of health care, along with his careful attention to detail, have been instrumental to our growth and success over the past few years. He will be missed, and we wish him well as he spends more time with his family and other interests.

So we stand ready for 2014, both excited and anxious, as we try to anticipate and prepare. There will certainly be challenges we didn’t expect, but I remain confident that Loma Linda, which has been under God’s guidance for so many years, will once again demonstrate excellence and resilience in the New Year.

Cordially yours,

Richard Hart

Office of the President, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350

Copyright © 2014 by Loma Linda University

llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 16 Jan 2014 11:57:26 -0800
4264:14716 <![CDATA[How will you Live It in 2014?]]> Heather Reifsnyder How will you Live it in 2014?  Loma Linda University Health is using its Facebook page to spread its message of wellness and wholeness.

Help jumpstart this social media campaign by filling out this brief form at https://www.facebook.com/lomalindauniversity/app_200103733347528 with your first name and list initial, city, and how you’re living it this year. 

]]>
Thu, 16 Jan 2014 11:22:24 -0800
4264:14714 <![CDATA[Facts and figures ]]> Advancement films ]]> How well do you know Loma Linda University Health? Find out in this video.

]]>
Thu, 16 Jan 2014 11:18:54 -0800
4264:14711 <![CDATA[Hospital leaders across the U.S. learn about PossAbilities]]> Herbert Atienza Loma Linda University PossAbilities has received national recognition from the American Hospital Association (AHA) as an example of an innovative hospital-based program that improves the quality of life of the population it serves. 

LLU Medical Center is one of only two California hospitals featured in the ninth edition of Community Connections: Ideas and Innovations for Hospital Leaders, which recognizes hospitals that exemplify best practices in one of four areas: meeting their community’s social and basic needs; promoting community health; expanding access and coverage; and enhancing the quality of life of the people they serve.

Sent to every hospital CEO in the U.S., Community Connections highlights innovative programs that demonstrate ways hospitals and health systems provide for and benefit their communities. A copy may be viewed at: www.ahacommunityconnections.org.

“We could not be more pleased to receive this honor,” says Pedro R. Payne, PossAbilities manager. “This is an opportunity for hospitals across the nation to learn about how LLUH is engaged in the health and well-being of our community. Our hope is that more hospitals replicate our program and expand their reach as they help to improve the quality of life of individuals with permanent disabilities.”

PossAbilities is a program for physically challenged individuals developed by LLUMC East Campus. It is supported by its founding partner the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. It offers a variety of activities and initiatives that provide support, education, and athletic endeavors to its members, including hosting the yearly PossAbilities Triathlon, an event joined in by thousands of able-bodied and challenged athletes and Road to Rio, a training program for athletes hoping to compete at the 2016 Paralympics.

]]>
Thu, 16 Jan 2014 11:08:20 -0800
4264:14705 <![CDATA[Wholeness plan update: personal wellness reports available soon]]> Nancy Yuen Though it is only 12 workdays into the first quarter of the new year, 3,643 people who are covered under the new LLUH wholeness plan have completed their health risk assessment (HRA), and 824 have completed the biometric screening.

The teams who have worked tirelessly on this process are excited about the participation thus far and would like to thank everyone who has completed their HRA and scheduled their biometric screening.

The new wholeness plan took effect January 1, 2014. Enhanced benefits for those enrolled in the wholeness plan include 100 percent coverage with no employee copayment for most preventive services provided on the Loma Linda campus. The plan does not currently apply to LLU employees or Murrieta employees (except those stationed there who work for LLUMC).

As results from the biometric screenings are processed, they are being added to each person’s HRA. A personal wellness report will be available within two weeks of the completion of the biometric screening appointment. The personal wellness report, which includes a wellness score, may be downloaded by signing into the enrolee’s HRA account online.

To remain eligible for the wholeness plan, all employees and spouses covered by the plan must complete their online HRA and biometric screenings within the first quarter of 2014.* Please review the electronic confirmation of the time and location of your appointment.

Thank you to everyone who has completed the process. Employees and spouses who have enrolled in the wholeness plan but have not yet completed the HRA and scheduled their biometric screening are encouraged to do so as soon as possible.

The HRA website is: https://LLUH-HRA.com. The HRA and biometrics user’s guide, which includes step-by-step instructions is posted here: https://peopleportal.llu.edu. Click on this link to access the January 2, 2014 News of the Week article, “Action required for new health plans,” which includes additional information: http://myllu.llu.edu/newsoftheweek/story/?id=14396.

*This requirement does not apply to the Loma Linda University or Murrieta employee Health Plans.

]]>
Thu, 16 Jan 2014 10:42:25 -0800
4264:14560 <![CDATA[Prayer note photo contest winners announced]]> Nancy Yuen For the past 12 years, Loma Linda University Health has created an annual set of prayer notes to be used in patient care. Thirty-six photographers submitted a record breaking 338 photos to the 2013 contest.

Congratulations to the 2013 photo contest winners. They are: first place, DJ Clemons; second place, Ather Mehboob; and third place, Francis Chan. Five individuals received honorable mention. They are: DJ Clemons, Elisa Cook, Darrel Petersen, Emelly Rosspencer, and Tim Standish.

Each prayer note card, similar to a postcard, has a beautiful nature photo printed on one side and an encouraging verse of scripture printed on the back. The photos promote feelings such as peace, strength, hope, or joy. There is also a note that says, “I prayed for you today and asked God to bless you.”

The winning photos may be viewed at: http://bit.ly/K8UxCW.

]]>
Thu, 09 Jan 2014 12:58:36 -0800
4264:14556 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week]]> Heather Reifsnyder & Larry Kidder Last week we queried what campus building had a topping-off ceremony in January 1966. The answer? The Medical Center. Construction workers poured 56,000 cubic yards that day to complete the east tower. The random correct guessers are Gisela Santiago, Emily Rice, and Jonathan Harris. E-mail pr@llu.edu to claim your prize, which must be picked up within 60 days. 

We also asked people to add what item they would toss into the concrete during a topping off ceremony. According to the project superintendent at the time, coins were one tradition. People’s answers included:

• Today, I would put my cell phone into the cement because I can’t seem to get away from it otherwise.
• I would toss a yellow rose flower for promise of a new beginning.
• I would toss pennies and only pennies so if they land face up ... most people will think they have good luck most of the day!
• I would have included a copy of the current room rates.
• I would toss in a prayer & a scripture verse from Revelation 21:4 – “And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain; for the former things are passed away.” 

Good ideas, everyone!

Today’s question is about some of our organization’s original faculty members. The College of Medical Evangelists began in 1909 with just 15 faculty members. Among them were two female physicians. Can you name either of them? Send your answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Monday, January 13, for a chance to win.

]]>
Thu, 09 Jan 2014 12:53:32 -0800
4264:14555 <![CDATA[New LLUH study reveals good news for avocado lovers]]> Herbert Atienza Overweight adults who eat about half of a Hass avocado during lunch can feel more full for a longer period of time, reports a new study from Loma Linda University Health.

The study, published in the Nutrition Journal, could be meaningful for people who are trying to better manage their caloric intake, since the addition of half an avocado during specific meals may be a simple dietary intervention for those who consume large amounts of snacks in between meals.

A caveat of the findings is that the avocado contained an additional 112 kcal, which may have accounted for the observed increase in satisfaction and decreased desire to eat.

“Avocados are a very popular and delicious fruit, and from the results of our study, may also be helpful for people who are looking to better manage their weight,” says Dr. Joan Sabaté, professor of nutrition at LLU School of Public Health and principal investigator of the study.

The study examined 26 healthy overweight and moderately obese adults, 25 to 65 years of age, and body mass index (BMI) greater than 25 but less than 35. Participants ate lunches with or without avocados, depending on their placement within the study’s timeframe. The study was funded by the Hass Avocado Board.

The results showed that adding avocado to a lunch meal led to a 23 percent increase in satisfaction and a 28 percent decreased desire to eat over a subsequent five-hour period as compared with the avocado-free control lunch meal. Over a three-hour period, adding avocado to a lunch meal yielded a 26 percent increase in satisfaction and a 40 percent decreased desire to eat. The changes in measurements of appetite sensation tended to taper off after five hours.

Aside from satiety, the study also sought to examine glucose and insulin response, and caloric intake among the subjects. The study recommends further studies on the impact on avocados on glucose and insulin response.

The study, titled: “A randomized 3x3 crossover study to evaluate the effect of Hass avocado intake on post-ingestive satiety, glucose and insulin levels, and subsequent energy intake in overweight adults,” may be read in its entirety by visiting this link: http://www.nutritionj.com/content/12/1/155.

]]>
Thu, 09 Jan 2014 12:52:57 -0800
4264:14552 <![CDATA[Traffic advisory, January 10 to 12: I-10 Anderson closures]]> Contributed report As part of the I-10 Tippecanoe Interchange Improvement Project, Phase I, a short-term closure of the eastbound I-10 Tippecanoe Ave./Anderson Street off-ramp had been scheduled for the weekend beginning Saturday, December 21, 2013.

Due to schedule changes initiated by the contractor, this short-term closure will instead begin at 11:00 p.m. Friday, January 10, 2014, and will end Sunday, January 12, 2014, at 7:00 p.m. An alternate route: exit on Mountain View Avenue; turn right onto Mountain View Ave.; turn right on Redlands Boulevard. You may then turn left or right onto Tippecanoe Avenue/Anderson Street.

As previously announced, the right auxiliary lane (the number 4 lane) on the Eastbound I-10 from Waterman Avenue to Tippecanoe Ave./Anderson St. will be closed from 11:00 p.m. Friday, January 10 through 7:00, January 12 (no detour is necessary for this closure).

In addition, the eastbound I-10 Northbound Waterman Ave. on-ramp will be closed for the above times and dates. An alternate route: proceed north on Waterman Ave.; turn right on Redlands Blvd.; turn left on Tippecanoe Ave/Anderson St.; turn right onto the I-10 eastbound on-ramp.

Finally, the eastbound I-10 southbound Waterman Ave. on-ramp will also be closed for the above dates and times. An alternate route: proceed south on Waterman Ave.; turn left on Redlands Blvd.; turn left on Tippecanoe Ave./Anderson St.; turn right onto the I-10 eastbound on-ramp.

Construction activities include adding an additional lane to complement the existing lane. These two lanes will ultimately tie into the four new lanes. Construction activities during this stage will be monitored closely and every precaution will be taken to ensure a timely opening.

Completion of this work will increase traffic throughput and will alleviate queuing of vehicles on I-10, enabling a more efficient, safer route to travel.

]]>
Thu, 09 Jan 2014 12:36:44 -0800
4264:14550 <![CDATA[Week of Renewal 2014]]> Each year the campus joins together for Week of Renewal to recommit to its mission, vision and values—and to God. Taking place January 13 through 18, it includes:

• Morning praise sessions Monday through Friday
• 11:00 a.m. chapels Monday through Friday featuring Randy Roberts, senior pastor of Loma Linda University Church, and Carla Gober-Park, director, LLU Center for Spiritual Life and Wholeness
• Lunchtime spiritual renewal sessions Monday through Friday 

Download the full details and schedule here. Please note that the correct time for the conference Friday night is 6:00 to 9:00 p.m.

]]>
Thu, 09 Jan 2014 12:01:10 -0800
4264:14548 <![CDATA[Free Faith, Health and Wholeness Conference]]> Loma Linda University Health's Center for Spiritual Life and Wholeness is sponsoring its 6th annual Faith, Health and Wholeness Conference titled "To Share or Not To Share." It takes place January 17 and 18.

This conference will look at the ethics of witness from concept to practice. It includes a variety of perspectives, from those who consider the potential negative consequences of sharing to those who identify witness as an essential aspect of care.

Several scholars will present papers from various viewpoints followed by responses. Participants will have opportunities to dialogue with scholars and colleagues as they explore the topics. 

The conference is free for all Loma Linda University Health employees and students and will be held Friday, January 17, from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. and Saturday, January 18 from 12:30 to 6:00 p.m. in the Centennial Complex, Fourth Floor. Lunch included on Saturday. Community guests are welcome to attend (cost $40). 

Register at www.lomalindaspiritualcareconference.org. For more information, contact Kris Lozano at (909) 558-7786 or KLozano@llu.edu.

Presenting scholars
Marsha Fowler: Azusa Pacific University
Richard Rice: LLU School of Religion
Elizabeth Johnston-Taylor: LLU School of Nursing
Elmer Thiessen: Semi-retired Professor, Medicine Hat College, Evangelische Tehologische Faculteit, Meserete Kristos College
Sonya Grypma: Trinity Western University
Carla Gober-Park: LLUH Center for Spiritual Life and Wholeness, LLU School of Religion

Responding scholars
Henry Lamberton: LLU School of Medicine 
David Larson: LLU School of Religion
Kathy Schoonever-Shoffner: Journal of Christian Nursing
Gerald Winslow: LLUMC Mission & Culture

 

]]>
Thu, 09 Jan 2014 11:54:05 -0800
4264:14546 <![CDATA[Volunteers sought for Children's Hospital Gala]]> Whether you’re a student needing community service hours, or an employee wanting to give back, help is needed at the annual Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital Gala.

This year, for the first time, the gala will be held at Citizens Business Bank Arena in Ontario and will include a benefit concert.

Volunteers will work in a variety of roles, such as showing guests to their seats, assisting with mobile bidding during the auction, helping serve dinner, and setting up/tearing down.

To sign up, please fill out the Become a Volunteer form at lomalindagala.org.  For more information contact Juliana McGraw at JLMcGraw@llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 09 Jan 2014 11:42:33 -0800
4264:14543 <![CDATA[<i>Evenings Rounds</i> devotional available]]> Evening Rounds. ]]> Evening Rounds is now available for purchase. This daily devotional book is the requested sequel to Morning Rounds, the book that started the School of Medicine’s centennial celebration in 2009. The second installment commemorates 100 years since the first School of Medicine class graduated in 1914.

The 365 daily devotions are each written by a different author—students, alumni, faculty, and friends of the School of Medicine.

All Loma Linda University Health faculty and staff are eligible to receive 10 percent off their purchase of Evening Rounds from the LLUMC Gift Shop and the LLU Campus Store.

In addition to these locations, Evening Rounds is also available from Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/Evening-Rounds-Daily-Devotional-Stories/dp/1594100217/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=8-1&qid=1388432325

Kindle edition to be released Friday, January 10.

For more information, please visit llu.edu/evening-rounds.

]]>
Thu, 09 Jan 2014 11:32:05 -0800
4264:14537 <![CDATA[Patient testimonial - Thomas Lucas]]> Advancement films ]]> An ambulance ride to LLUMC was Thomas Lucas' first encounter with Loma Linda after he had a stroke. Watch how Lucas' life was saved here at the hospital.

]]>
Thu, 09 Jan 2014 11:16:28 -0800
4264:14424 <![CDATA[LLUH leadership council supports homeless families]]> Herbert Atienza and Nancy Yuen Even in our own community there are families who are living without housing. For more than 20 years, Inland Temporary Homes (ITH), a nonprofit organization, has intervened, providing shelter and eventually subsidized/transitional housing to homeless families with children. The organization is based in Loma Linda and was started in 1991 by members of the Loma Linda University Church.

Hundreds of families, who previously had lost all hope, have received immediate shelter and graduated into ITH housing units. While in the ITH program, each client family receives carefully designed case management. They are also assisted as they set goals, access mental health services, complete life skills classes, and find and maintain employment. At the end of the 21-month program, family members have typically found employment and the family transitions into stable, permanent housing.

On Tuesday, December 17, LLUH executive leadership council members presented a check to Jeff Little, CEO of ITH, and other representatives from the organization. The council had decided to forego the annual Christmas party and to donate the proceeds to ITH.

 “Our mission at Inland Temporary Homes,” says Little, “is to break the cycle of homelessness for families with children in the Inland Empire by providing transitional housing, case management, and other supportive services to families who have no place to live.” He continues, “We are only able to pursue our mission with the help of our supporters like Loma Linda University Health, and its executive leadership council.”

]]>
Thu, 02 Jan 2014 12:22:04 -0800
4264:14399 <![CDATA[PossAbilities commercial]]> Advancement films ]]> Lights, camera, action! PossAbilities members came together to film a 30-second commercial highlighting how the program is providing hope and direction for people with diverse disabilities. Watch it here.

]]>
Thu, 02 Jan 2014 10:42:30 -0800
4264:14398 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week]]> Heather Reifsnyder & Nancy Yuen Happy new year. Today’s question harkens back to another January—January of 1966.

But first, the answer to our question from December 19: Meda Kerr, the first LLU graduate to become a foreign missionary, served on the continent of South America (in both Uruguay and Argentina). Ruthie Oropesa, Missy B. Roberts, and Vanessa Noriega are the randomly chosen winners; send an e-mail to pr@llu.edu to claim your prize.

We are starting a new policy that all prizes must be picked up, or intercampus mail address provided, within 60 days. For accounting purposes, you know.

Now, back to 1966. On January 25 of that year, a topping-out ceremony was held for a new building on campus. What is that, you say? It is a ceremony held during a final or significant stage of construction. According to a news article at the time:

“Topping-out is traditional, dating back hundreds of years to the Scandinavian countries, and we make a big thing of it,” John J. Devlin, project superintendent, reported. Often a tree is hoisted to the top, or the crew tosses coins into the concrete pouring at these ceremonies, Devlin explained. “Usually we toss in all the change we have with us,” he said.

What campus building was topped off in January 1966? And for fun, feel free to include what you would toss in during a topping-off ceremony.

E-mail the answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Monday, January 6, for a chance to win.

]]>
Thu, 02 Jan 2014 10:06:51 -0800
4264:14396 <![CDATA[Action required for new health plans]]> Nancy Yuen With the new year, the new LLUH health plans became active. Employees will soon have more information and resources than ever before to empower them to become actively involved in managing their health.

The new wholeness and base plans took effect January 1. Enhanced benefits for those enrolled in the wholeness plan include 100 percent coverage with no employee copayment for most preventive services provided on the Loma Linda campus.

To remain eligible for the wholeness plan, employees and spouses who are enrolled in the plan must complete an online health risk assessment (HRA) and biometric screening within the first quarter of 2014. This does not apply to LLU employees. Any changes for them will be announced at a later date in conjunction with their open enrollment in May 2014.

Thousands of employees have gone through this process over the past few years through various employee wellness services. There is no charge for the HRA or biometric screening.

Employees and spouses are encouraged to schedule their appointment for the biometric screening early for access to the greatest number of choices for times and locations. In addition to screenings during regular work hours, appointments are also available on Sundays and in the early morning and evening.

The biometric screening will take place at eight locations:

  • Behavioral Medicine Center
  • East Campus
  • LLUAHSC 101 building
  • Faculty Medical Offices
  • LLUMC cafeteria
  • Wong Kerlee International Conference Center
  • Highland Springs
  • LLUMC - Murrieta (for employees of Loma Linda University Medical Center main campus who are stationed at the Murrieta campus)

For important descriptions and frequently asked questions about the health risk assessment and biometric screening, please download and read the letter below.

Step-by-step instructions can be found in the user guide below.

Additional information is available (including maps and consent forms) on People Portal: https://peopleportal.llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 02 Jan 2014 09:18:11 -0800
4264:14235 <![CDATA[Notes from the President ]]> Dr. Richard Hart

December 2013

Department of earth and biological sciences--helping us understand natural history and environmental challenges

Loma Linda is a myriad of crossing sidewalks leading to various destinations across our campus. Follow one of those paths and you end up at Griggs Hall, one of our anchor buildings that has housed many programs throughout the years. One of the departments in Griggs is also one of our best-kept secrets at Loma Linda—the department of earth and biological sciences, or what we simply call EBS. It is unique as the only department on campus whose scope includes the role of humans as part of an ecosystem about which we all need to be concerned.

So EBS has taken on that goal, that commitment, to help this campus understand and focus on natural history and environmental challenges. They have created a Center for Biodiversity and Conservation Studies that shows what an incredible world our God has created and how we can help preserve it and all who live here. Their faculty includes those with expertise in everything from geology to sea turtles, rattlesnakes to dinosaurs.

So why is Loma Linda hosting this department and faculty? It is a long story, one that has migrated through various locations and administrations. The fundamental reason for EBS is to prepare quality science faculty for our sister Adventist institutions. In a world where evolution is a dominant belief among scientists, it is hard to study and successfully compete in many institutions when one holds a biblical view of creation. So this department, originally just called the department of biology, was designed to prepare master’s and doctoral-level scientists with a solid background in our biblically based view of creation and a firm understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of modern evolutionary theories.

But studying the philosophy and science of creation solely does not give students the breadth of knowledge necessary to effectively teach in most undergraduate biology departments. So our EBS department has developed a broader base to include geology and biological research and courses supported by six well-published scientists from diverse backgrounds. And in addition to their own department’s courses, students in EBS can study with other basic scientists across the university. Let me tell you about each one of the unique faculty members in EBS.

Leonard Brand has been chair of this department on two occasions, for more than 32 years. He has been a champion of creation issues and has published a variety of books and articles on this topic. His areas of expertise are taphonomy (the study of decaying organisms over time and how they become fossilized) and ichnology (the study of tracks and traces of life in the past). A sought-after lecturer, Leonard has just stepped down from his chair position, but he will remain an active member of the department.

Paul Buchheim has also been here for many years and has actively published in his areas of expertise. These include limnogeology (the study of lake bottom sediments to reconstruct past environments and conditions) and sedimentology, which I can at least intuitively understand—the description, classification, and origin of sedimentary rock.

Kevin Nick, another of our professors, specializes in paleomagnetism, the study of fossil magnetism in rocks used to determine the past configurations of continents. Kevin is also an expert in sedimentology. You can see a trend here—a collection of solid scientists with a common commitment to study and understand the forces that have formed and impacted this earth.

The other three faculty members add even further dimensions to EBS. Bill Hayes is known as our snake guy, with expertise in herpetology and behavioral ecology. He maintains a fascinating collection of reptiles, which he shares regularly with groups in the community to educate and inform about these natural wonders. His research includes the study of snake toxins, which has complemented the clinical needs of our department of emergency medicine, as we do live in rattlesnake country.

Steve Dunbar’s expertise is in marine biology and conservation. He is the turtle guy, with a fascinating project to protect sea turtles in Honduras, where their eggs have been hunted enough to jeopardize their existence. Steve is developing alternative employment options for the local villagers there so they can support themselves without depending on harvesting turtle eggs—helping both the community and the turtles!

Finally, Ricardo Escobar is our newest faculty, with expertise in herpetology and environmental sciences. He is helping develop the newest thrust of the department on conservation studies and biodiversity. As a Christian community, we need to be more proactive in valuing and protecting our environment amid all the threats to it in this country and in ecosystems around the world. That is a message for all of us, regardless of our discipline or where we live.

To more effectively accomplish the objective of EBS, we are now moving the entire department into the School of Medicine alongside the school’s other basic science programs. In this way, it can relate to all of our basic science graduate students, whether they are studying microbiology, pharmacology, biochemistry, anatomy, or any of the other disciplines. Now many of these students can take courses from EBS during their time at Loma Linda to help them prepare for their teaching careers.

The EBS department itself offers degrees in biology, geology, earth science, environmental sciences, and natural sciences. This includes undergraduate degrees in environmental sciences and geology; master’s degrees in biology, geology, and natural sciences; and a PhD in either biology or earth sciences. Because of the commitment to prepare faculty for institutions around the world, the department has a very diverse student body from many cultures and with widely divergent interests. Graduates are now serving in colleges and universities in many countries. One of the strengths of the department has been its ability to develop scholarship funds for these students as well as research support for faculty projects.

In addition to EBS, there is another organization at Loma Linda called the Geoscience Research Institute. This is technically not part of Loma Linda University, though it sits on our campus. Headed by Jim Gibson, it has a faculty of five that conducts seminars around the world on topics related to biblical creation. Funded by the Adventist church directly, GRI collaborates with EBS on research projects, but doesn’t offer academic programs or degrees.

So the next time you think of Loma Linda, remember that we are a family of diverse interests, with great variation in our faculty and students. In our efforts to serve the world through improving health, we also look back at man’s history on this earth as well as educate about protecting the wonderful environment our God has created.  

In closing, let me wish each of you a relaxing and enjoyable holiday season with family and friends. Let us all remember the meaning of Christmas and the hope it has provided each of us.

Cordially yours,

Richard Hart

PS: I talked in last month’s newsletter about one of our extraordinary graduates, Sakena Yacoobi, founder of the Afghan Institute of Learning. Sakena has just won the 2013 Opus Prize, a faith-based humanitarian award of $1 million to help the recipient fight against persistent and pressing social issues. Learn more about her humanitarian work to help women and children in Afghanistan by clicking on her picture below to watch a video.

]]>
Thu, 19 Dec 2013 11:16:52 -0800
4264:14229 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week]]> Heather Reifsnyder and Nancy Yuen Grandma Whitney. May we all merit such a cool nickname. This one was given to alumna Hulda Crooks because she scaled Mt. Whitney some two dozen times—starting at the age of 66. As she told the Los Angeles Times: "When I come down from the mountain, I feel like I can battle in the valley again."

Now that we all feel inspired—and lazy—here are the random winners: Bruce Villescas, Christina M. Johnson, and Tara A. Witongco. Please send an e-mail to pr@llu.edu to claim your prize.

Today’s question also deals with an extraordinary woman.

The first graduate of Loma Linda University to serve in a foreign mission post was Meda Kerr, a 1907 alumna of the School of Nursing. What continent did she serve on?

E-mail your answer pr@llu.edu by midnight Monday, December 30, for a chance to win. We will publish the next issue of News of the Week on January 2.

 

]]>
Thu, 19 Dec 2013 10:21:08 -0800
4264:14225 <![CDATA[President Farmer]]> Advancement films ]]> The president of Loma Linda University Health wears many hats, including one that may surprise you. Watch as Dr. Richard Hart helps families get ready for Christmas at his farm in Oak Glen, California.

]]>
Thu, 19 Dec 2013 10:04:05 -0800
4264:14224 <![CDATA[New director for International Heart Institute]]> Ravi Mandapati, MD, became director of the LLU International Heart Institute on December 1, 2013. 

“Dr. Mandapati brings a wealth of experience and leadership skills to the International Heart Institute,” says Mark Reeves, MD, PhD, vice president of institutes for Loma Linda University Health.

Dr. Mandapati is a fellow of the Heart Rhythm Society and professor of medicine and co-director of the UCLA Cardiac Arrhythmia Center. He is a cardiac electrophysiologist by training, having completed fellowships in pediatric cardiology at State University of New York–Syracuse and cardiac electrophysiology at Harvard University.

For more than a decade, Dr. Mandapati has been the director of pediatric cardiac electrophysiology at LLU. He is currently professor of pediatrics (cardiology) and medicine in the LLU School of Medicine. He is widely published, and his research efforts focus on mapping and mechanisms of atrial fibrillation and arrhythmias in patients with congenital cardiac disease.

Dr. Mandapati has a passion for high-quality cardiac care, according to his colleagues, and a demonstrated track record of consensus-building.

He takes over as director from Ranae Larsen, MD. During her four-year tenure as director, the International Heart Institute made significant strides toward consolidation of clinical services and the expansion of its regional footprint. 

“We are so thankful for Dr. Larsen’s outstanding leadership,” says Dr. Reeves. “She will continue to provide the high-quality pediatric cardiac care in the International Heart Institute that she has become famous for.”

]]>
Thu, 19 Dec 2013 09:59:51 -0800
4264:14222 <![CDATA[Meet the Web Center team during open house ]]> Loma Linda University Health is pleased to announce an open house celebration of its full-service Web Center on Friday, January 10, from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The event will be held at the Web Center, located at 11165 Mountain View Avenue, Mountain View Plaza, suite 129.

The open house will give employees an opportunity to meet the Web Center’s 16-member team and learn about the many digital services available to LLUH entities.

Led by Jack Rose, executive director, the Web Center is designed to create and support an enterprise web strategy enhancing online access, communication, and engagement throughout LLUH. Under direction from the executive leadership council, the center is charged with supporting all departmental web initiatives and leading a unified, innovative evolution of lomalindahealth.org, llu.edu, VIP, and affiliated institutional web sites. In addition, the center is coordinating social media throughout the organization using appropriate LLUH social media channels.

"The Web Center enables LLUH to enhance and optimize our web presence to meet the rapidly evolving needs of our internal and external customers," says Rose. "With a dedicated, on-site team of technical and creative web experts, we are able to quickly and effectively develop integrated online solutions to meet business objectives. I'm excited to apply our broad expertise to serve our patients, students, employees, and many other audiences as we support their engagement across all LLUH web properties.”

Since its inception earlier this year, the Web Center has processed more than 2,500 tickets and has completed in excess of 50 projects for LLUH entities. Completed projects include new or refreshed Internet web sites for the Proton Treatment and Research Center, Institute for Community Partnerships, and Life on the Line along with new initiatives on VIP such as the Nursing News blog

According to Rose, the Web Center team has collaborated with a number of groups throughout campus and looks forward to continuing to help optimize all facets of LLUH’s web presence.

"While there is significant work ahead,” he says, “we have made great strides the past eight months in working with business partners to enhance and support their business objectives. We look forward to continuing our work with stakeholders across the organization and developing compelling web solutions to support the LLUH mission." 

Web Center services

LLUH departments are encouraged to contact the Web Center for any web-related needs. By engaging the Web Center, employees can now rely on one unified support resource for help with creating new websites, maintaining or enhancing existing web sites, and for other web projects as needed.

The Web Center offers a variety of digital services, including:

  • web site creation and maintenance: comprehensive support involving web design, development, content optimization, and user experience
  • search engine marketing and search engine optimization: increasing visibility on search engines such as Google
  • web analytics: measuring success in reaching business objectives
  • social media coordination: engaging target audiences and communicating brand messages using appropriate LLUH social media channels
  • web application services: support and training for web-based applications essential to the development and maintenance of LLUH web properties

Requesting Web Center support

LLUH departments can engage Web Center services by opening a service request or incident ticket in the Service Desk Portal on VIP. Service requests are to be used for new projects, web site redesigns, or maintenance/update requests. Incident tickets are for break/fix requests such as page or document errors on a web site. Customers can follow the progress of a submitted ticket to completion via provided tracking numbers.

]]>
Thu, 19 Dec 2013 09:32:23 -0800
4264:14212 <![CDATA[LLUH institution-wide mission statement usage]]> Nancy Yuen All entities within Loma Linda University Health share a mission statement, “To continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ.” The LLUH motto is “To make man whole.”

Entities within LLUH may wish to personalize the mission statement to show how their area uniquely contributes to the institution-wide mission.

If an entity chooses to add a statement emphasizing how it supports the LLUH mission, executive leadership council has approved the following: the customized wording should be placed after the institution-wide mission statement, prefaced with these words: “LLUH (entity) contributes to the achievement of this mission by…”

We are pleased that so many departments wish to show how they further the institutional mission. However, the institution-wide LLUH mission statement must precede any additional wording.

]]>
Wed, 18 Dec 2013 17:12:38 -0800
4264:14210 <![CDATA[Parking department relocates to new parking structure offices]]> Contributed report The Loma Linda University Health parking department will open in its new location in the West Hall parking structure on Monday, December 23. The new office is located on the southeast corner of the lower level, just past the elevators.

To prepare for the move, the current office location at 125 E. Club Center Drive in San Bernardino is closed today, December 19, and tomorrow, December 20. The San Bernardino office will remain the transportation department, but the lobby will be closed.

For more information about the parking department, call 909-651-3025 or ext. 53025.

]]>
Wed, 18 Dec 2013 16:54:15 -0800
4264:14085 <![CDATA[Virtual Santa cheers pediatric patients]]> Briana Pastorino Santa needs to make his list and check it twice. But often children who are hospitalized during the holidays don’t have the opportunity to show Santa in person what good little boys and girls they’ve been.

Fortunately, Santa Claus found a way to visit patients at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital on December 10 without even leaving the North Pole, bringing the magic of the season to them via the latest mobile and video collaboration technologies. Cisco Systems’ “Santa Connection Program” made it possible.

Santa visited with children in the hospital’s playroom or their rooms. So much like kids who are able to sit on Santa’s lap, patients had the opportunity to pass along their wishes this holiday season in plenty of time for St. Nick to make his list and check it twice.

]]>
Thu, 12 Dec 2013 12:04:06 -0800
4264:14083 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week]]> Nancy Yuen and Heather Reifsnyder Thanks to our many guessers last week—almost all of whom correctly stated that Jerry L. Pettis was the editor-in-chief of the University SCOPE publication when it debuted in 1963. The three random winners are Marilyn Sampson, Michael Wilson Jr., and Vanessa Noriega. E-mail pr@llu.edu to claim your prize.

The hint was: “His/her name is forever memorialized in the City of Loma Linda.” But Mr. Pettis is not the only LLU luminary to have this distinction. The namesake of Hulda Crooks Park was a dietetics alumna of the School of Public Health. She also held posts including assistant dean of nurses and research assistant for Dr. Mervyn Hardinge.

But what really made her well known was the extensive mountaineering career she began at the age of 64, climbing some 100 peaks and earning eight world records for women over the age of 80 before she died in 1997.

And now for this week's question: What was Hulda Crooks' nickname? E-mail the answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Monday, December 16, for a chance to win.

]]>
Thu, 12 Dec 2013 11:54:55 -0800
4264:14081 <![CDATA[LLUH researcher awarded $7.7 million grant from NIH]]> James Ponder John H. Zhang, MD, PhD, professor of neurosurgery and physiology at Loma Linda University School of Medicine, recently learned that his application for a $7.7 million program project grant—or PPG—had been approved by the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

"This is only the second PPG in the history of Loma Linda University Health," he says. The first one was awarded to Lawrence D. Longo, MD, professor of physiology at the LLU School of Medicine, 19 years ago to start the Center for Perinatal Biology. 

"A PPG is a big grant to support a group of scientists at one university studying a singular theme," Dr. Zhang explains. "They are normally awarded to establish an NIH Center at a respected research institute. We are starting the Center for Brain Hemorrhage Research at LLUH."

The new center is good news for those who suffer from hemorrhagic stroke and traumatic brain injuries worldwide. As researchers uncover the causes, Dr. Zhang is hopeful they will also discover new treatments and prevention strategies.

"There are only 10 or 15 NIH PPG centers on stroke," he notes, "and we are the first and only one in the U.S. to study brain hemorrhage. These injuries, which result from strokes or traumatic brain damage, have a common feature of cerebral blood vessel rupture and release of blood into the brain tissue," he adds."The initial mechanical attack and subsequent blood chemistry reactions cause a cascade of ensuing changes that injure other parts of the brain."

While hemorrhagic strokes are less common than ischemic strokes caused by blood clots in cerebral vessels, the two types of hemorrhagic stroke in this study—subarachnoid and intracerebral hemorrhage—are a small but deadly minority of all stroke events. 

"Although they only represent between 15 and 20 percent of total strokes that occur in the U.S., they are responsible for more than 30 percent of stroke deaths," he shares. "Approximately 50 percent of patients who have one of these two forms of hemorrhage events die within the first month.

"One goal of this study," he concludes, "is to look for common features of these hemorrhagic brain injuries in hopes of discovering potential common therapies targeting on these shared features."  

In order to qualify for a PPG, an organization needs a nationally or internationally recognized principal investigator, or PI, and three projects led by other investigators with a history of federal funding. Dr. Zhang is internationally known for his brain hemorrhage research. The three individual projects, which NIH accepted, are studies of subarachnoid hemorrhage, intracerebral hemorrhage, and traumatic brain injury.

The first of the three projects is reminiscent of the $1.9 million NIH grant awarded Dr. Zhang in 2013 to investigate a potential treatment for subarachnoid hemorrhage. He will serve as PI for a portion of this grant, as he does for the earlier one.

Jiping Tang, MD, professor of basic sciences, will be the PI for the second project. Jerome Badaut, PhD, assistant professor of pediatrics, and Andre Obenaus, PhD, associate professor of biochemistry and pediatrics, will serve as co-PIs for the third. 

The project has four distinct cores—administrative, neuroimaging, neurobehavioral, and neurobiological—each with its own director.

"I'm director of the administrative core," Dr. Zhang observes. "Andre Obenaus is in charge of the neuroimaging core, Richard Hartman is director of the neurobehavioral core, and William Pearce and John Buchholz are co-directors of the neurobiological core." Richard Hartman, PhD, is professor of psychology; William Pearce, PhD, is professor of physiology; and John Buchholz, PhD, is professor and vice chair of pharmacology.  

Dr. Zhang applied for the five-year grant in May 2012. The application was reviewed in October of that year, and the NIH released its first critique of the submission just before Thanksgiving. 

"We spent the holidays in the lab," Dr. Zhang discloses. "We re-submitted the application in early January 2013. It was re-reviewed in June. We received a notice of anticipatory funding last September."

Altogether, he has published 570 research papers as of August 2013, more than 300 of which have been written in his nine years at LLUH. He has also edited 14 books and served as editor-in-chief for two journals.

Since joining the LLUH faculty in 2004, Dr. Zhang has received $28 million in grants, later slashed to $23 million by budget cuts.

]]>
Thu, 12 Dec 2013 11:17:43 -0800
4264:14075 <![CDATA[Overcoming words of self-defeat]]> Dr. Wil Alexander Words for Walking

God's gifts of Love and Grace seem very wonderful these days, Christmas notwithstanding. Someone has commented most poignantly:

You say: "It's impossible."
God says: "All things are possible."
Luke 18:27

You say: "I'm too tired."
God says: "I will give you rest."
Matthew 11:28-30 

You say: "Nobody really loves me."
God says: "I love you."
John 3:16 

You say: "I can't go on."
God says: "My grace is sufficient."
II Corinthians 12:9 

You say: "I can't figure things out."
God says: "I will direct your steps.”
Proverbs 3:5-6 

You say: "I can't do it."
God says: "You can do all things."
Philippians 4:13 

You say: "I'm not able."
God says: "I am able."
II Corinthians 9:8 

You say: "It's not worth it."
God says: "It will be worth it."
Romans 8:28 

You say: "I can't forgive myself."
God says: “I forgive you."
I John 1:9 

You say: "I can't manage."
God says: "I will supply all your needs.”
Philippians 4:19 

You say: "I'm afraid."
God says:  "I have not given you a spirit of fear.”
II Timothy 1:7                                                                                                                       

You say: "I'm always worried.”
God says: "Cast all your care on Me."
I Peter 5:7 

You say: "I'm not smart enough."
God says: "I give you wisdom."
I Corinthians 1:30 

You say: "I feel all alone."
God says: "I will never leave you nor forsake you.”
Hebrews 13:5                          

If you are searching for meditative material, begin with these and keep adding and giving thanks.

***

Wil Alexander, PhD, is the founding director, LLU Center for Spiritual Life & Wholeness, and professor of family medicine at LLU School of Medicine. His column, “Innerweave: The Wholeness Story,” has appeared for many years in Today, the campus newspaper of Loma Linda University Health.  

                                                                        

]]>
Thu, 12 Dec 2013 10:46:57 -0800
4264:14068 <![CDATA[Edgard's story--the skill to heal]]> Advancement films ]]> Congratulations to the first graduating class of rehab technicians in Haiti. LLU's School of Allied Health Professions is giving Haitians the tools they need to become rehabilitation professionals following the devastating 2010 earthquake. Watch the inspiring story of one of those students.

]]>
Thu, 12 Dec 2013 09:39:29 -0800
4264:14067 <![CDATA[Seeking the next generation of servant leaders]]> Nancy Blaire Applications are now being accepted for the Loma Linda University Health management residency and business internship program organized by human resources management. College students or recent college graduates (must have graduated within one year of program start date) are encouraged to apply.

Each summer, about a dozen students and recent college graduates convene at human resources management to begin their journey as a Loma Linda University Health management resident or business intern. Candidates experience a rigorous application process and a series of interviews for an opportunity to be part of the program, and they are recruited from across the nation.

The program, founded in 2007, focuses on providing leadership opportunities for college students and recent graduates who are Seventh-day Adventist. The management residency and business internship program combines hands-on training and work experience with professional development to create a pipeline of dedicated, competent, and service-minded leaders for LLUH.  

Participants in the program are given the opportunity to use their talents, discover the academic health care setting, and explore their passion for excellence and innovation. An international rotation has been added to the management residency, encouraging residents to participate in the global mission of LLUH.

Applications are due December 31, 2013. Visit llu.edu/hrm to apply or learn more about application requirements, or contact Shaunielle Abreu at sabreu@llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 12 Dec 2013 09:37:16 -0800
4264:14066 <![CDATA[Driver responsibilities in crosswalks]]> Contributed report An article titled “Walk smarter: how to protect yourself from traffic,” in the October 24 issue of News of the Week resulted in several notes to the editor.

A reader whose office is on the corner of a four-way stop frequently observes close calls between cars and pedestrians with drivers talking on phones, texting, or simply not paying attention. Another e-mail mentioned near misses that occur at the corner of Stewart and Anderson streets.

Helping create a pedestrian-friendly campus is every driver’s responsibility.

Please review and follow these guidelines:

  • Pedestrians in crosswalks always have the right of way.
  • Motorists should not enter a crosswalk until pedestrian(s) reach the opposite curb.
  • Drivers should not text or talk on the phone while behind the wheel.
  • Remember, if a pedestrian makes eye contact with a driver, he or she is ready to cross the street. The driver must yield to the pedestrian.
  • Dusk is now falling before 5:00. Drivers should pay attention at intersections—assume someone will be crossing, and be prepared accordingly. Recognize that in the dark, you must look carefully so you don’t miss somebody.

To read the California laws that apply to cars and pedestrians:

Right-of-way guidelines from The California Driver Handbook: http://apps.dmv.ca.gov/pubs/hdbk/right_of_way.htm

]]>
Thu, 12 Dec 2013 09:13:55 -0800
4264:13860 <![CDATA[Art in the making: hand painting by pediatric patients and hockey pros ]]> Advancement films ]]> The Ontario Reign Hockey team helped raise more than $25,000 to benefit Loma Linda University Children's Hospital during “LLUCH Jersey Night” on November 23 during a game at Citizen's Business Bank Arena in Ontario. The event included an auction of 24 player jerseys, and the highest bidder took home the jersey and a piece of artwork that the player had hand-painted with a child at Children’s Hospital. Ontario Reign players visited patients at the hospital October 29 to make the canvases with handprints and autographs of the players. Watch the video of the fun day.

]]>
Thu, 05 Dec 2013 13:07:36 -0800
4264:13857 <![CDATA[Proposed relationship with San Gorgonio Memorial Hospital ]]> The governing boards of San Gorgonio Memorial Hospital and Loma Linda University Medical Center recently agreed to take steps to explore affiliation and partnership between the two organizations.

While the discussions are preliminary, the affiliation could allow the two organizations to accomplish more together than could be achieved separately.

The primary focus of the discussions has been to ensure that an affiliation between San Gorgonio Memorial Hospital and Loma Linda University Medical Center will enhance medical and hospital treatment services to the San Gorgonio Pass communities.

Q & A

Q: Why are San Gorgonio Memorial Hospital and Loma Linda University Medical Center looking at an affiliation?
A: Both facilities feel that by working together they can provide better medical and hospital services to the San Gorgonio Pass communities.

Q: What are the objectives of the affiliation?
A:
      • Improve the quality of care and patient safety in the Pass communities

  • Expand the range of medical services provided to the Pass communities
  • Recruit and retain talented medical personnel and staff
  • Provide resources to complete the last phase of construction for the patient-care building at San Gorgonio Memorial Hospital
  • Keep San Gorgonio as a locally owned and governed community hospital.

Q: What are the benefits of the affiliation?
A: Loma Linda University Medical Center is recognized as one of the best hospital organizations in the country. An affiliation will bring its expertise and resources to the San Gorgonio Pass communities. The partnership will also bring additional doctors and medical specialists to the area, and improve the quality and variety of locally available health care treatments. The affiliation will allow improvements at San Gorgonio Memorial Hospital that would not be possible otherwise.

Q: Aren’t San Gorgonio Memorial Hospital and LLUMC already working together?
A: Yes, they have worked closely together to manage resources and to achieve cost savings by purchasing supplies, equipment, and medicines through the LLUMC group purchasing organization. LLUMC also provides mentoring and support to San Gorgonio’s chief nursing officer, and interim management of the information technology department. Besides these collaborations, many San Gorgonio patients are already receiving specialty care from LLUMC. 

Q: What other partnering opportunities are SGMH and LLUMC exploring?
A: The two organizations have agreed to merge outpatient physical therapy services and are pursuing support agreements for pediatric cardiology and neurology coverage and consultation, among other physician services. 

Q: What will an affiliation mean for employees?
A: Jobs and departments at San Gorgonio Memorial Hospital are not being eliminated or consolidated. The affiliation will provide employees at both organizations more opportunities, not less. The goal of affiliating is to improve services to patients, not reduce positions at either hospital. 

Q: Will San Gorgonio remain a locally owned and governed community hospital?
A: Yes. It is anticipated that the affiliation will leave San Gorgonio Memorial Hospital largely as it is now: a community hospital, providing community health care services, with our existing associates, medical staff, and volunteers. The land, building, and equipment will continue to be owned by the community through the San Gorgonio Memorial Hospital Healthcare District, and the hospital will continue to be governed locally and operated by the staff currently in place. 

Q: What is the timing for the affiliation?
A: The details of the proposed affiliation are being worked out now. A recommendation will be brought to the governing boards of the two organizations by their December meetings. The final decision on the affiliation will be placed before voters on a Spring 2014 ballot.

]]>
Thu, 05 Dec 2013 13:02:41 -0800
4264:13856 <![CDATA['Pursuit of Excellence' leadership course]]> Staff development Explore challenges and opportunities of leadership in "Pursuit of Excellence: Leadership Essentials." The class, offered by staff development on Thursday, December 12, from 10:00 am to noon, will cover how to begin developing the leader within each of us. 

Upon completion of the workshop, participants will be able to identify the characteristics of leadership and understand how to begin developing their leadership potential.

The workshop is free to employees.

To register click here

]]>
Thu, 05 Dec 2013 12:58:25 -0800
4264:13853 <![CDATA['Tis the season of employee Christmas breakfasts]]> Heather Reifsnyder Employees are invited each year to a breakfast acknowledging their service and celebrating the holiday season. Breakfasts were offered this morning at the Medical Center cafeteria and at East Campus Hospital.

Schedule for the remaining breakfasts:

LLUMC

December 6, 7:30–9:30 a.m.
Mt. View 

December 13, 7:30–11 a.m.
Highland Springs

December 18, 6:00–9:00 a.m.
HSH   

December 18, 7:30–9:30 a.m.
LLUAHSC 101  

Questions? Please contact Jerome Rafoth at ext. 87060.  

LLU/LLUSS

December 17, 7:00–11:00 a.m.
Centennial Complex Chen Fong Conference Center (4th floor)

]]>
Thu, 05 Dec 2013 12:52:32 -0800
4264:13851 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week]]> Heather Reifsnyder and Nancy Yuen The person who is the answer to last week’s trivia question was actually quoted in the story—Ruthita Fike, MA, CEO of Loma Linda University Medical Center. Ms. Fike brought the tradition of the annual ThankSharing concert and celebration to Loma Linda University Health.

Amanda L. Perry, Raymond Norris, and John Sisk are the winners. Please e-mail pr@llu.edu to claim your prize.

News-making

People have been chronicling the news at Loma Linda University Health for decades. The University SCOPE publication was launched on September 3, 1963, as a weekly newspaper published every Tuesday. Tor Lidar served as managing editor, and the associate editors were Oliver L. Jacques and John Parrish. But who was the editor-in-chief? Hint: His or her name is forever memorialized in the City of Loma Linda.  

E-mail the answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Monday, December 9, for a chance to win.

Today, Scope is a quarterly magazine. To subscribe, send an e-mail to scope@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 05 Dec 2013 12:48:36 -0800
4264:13849 <![CDATA[Holiday wish list for Children's Hospital]]> Briana Pastorino Toy donations are just one way a child’s stay at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital can be enhanced, but not all toys can be accepted. The hospital can only receive new toys in the original packaging, and stuffed animals are off limits.

The hospital’s child life services department has made it a little easier for any individual or group to purchase appropriate toys for the precious patients at the hospital. Interested donors can visit the hospital’s Amazon wish list by clicking here and searching for “Loma Linda Child Life.”

There is a general list as well as separate lists for the individual units. For additional information regarding toy donations, please call child life services at (909) 558-8212.

 

]]>
Thu, 05 Dec 2013 12:42:26 -0800
4264:13842 <![CDATA[Alumna raises awareness about the objectification of women]]> Briana Pastorino Digital media has an intense impact on how girls and young women view themselves physically and behaviorally, and can ultimately affect the opportunities they will have and the choices they will make in life. Loma Linda University School of Public Health alumna Pamela Luna, DrPH, MEd, is working to combat the trends negatively influencing youth today in an effort to empower girls through education and awareness.

Dr. Luna facilitated two film festival sessions during the American Public Health Association (APHA) Annual Meeting and Expo in Boston, Massachusetts, including the session, “Objecting to objectification: how girls are portrayed in the media,” which took place November 4.

“Anybody who cares about the health and education of kids needs to be aware of the influences of the media,” Dr. Luna says. “Events like this film festival allow us to empower people to take what they see and take action and make a difference.  I only hope that is what we have done.”

During the session, all or portions of four films were screened and discussed by a panel consisting of individuals associated with each of the films. The films were “Sexy Baby,” “Stop Objectification,” “Miss Representation,” and “Girl Rising.”

Gary Black, founder of the APHA film festival, was ecstatic about the success of the event, which also celebrated its 10th anniversary. “Dr. Luna’s sessions were indeed a highlight of the festival’s 10-year history,” he says.

Dr. Luna has kept the momentum from the APHA film festival going—hosting a screening of “Girl Rising” for students at LLU November 14 in collaboration with the LLU chaplain’s office.

“The screening of ‘Girl Rising’ is an outgrowth of the commitment we have to educate and encourage advocacy within our community for those who may not have a voice or whose stories are untold,” says Dilys A. Brooks, MDiv, associate campus chaplain. “It is of vital importance—in the academic and professional preparation of our students—that we provide extracurricular opportunities where they may experience the stories of the people they will serve.”

After seeing the film, Katie Freeland, MPH, a global health student, blogged, “‘Girl Rising’ is a testimony of the resilience, radiance, and brilliance that comes from the minds of girls all over the world—girls who have faced unimaginable darkness with unrivaled, spectacular courage; courage of which many of us wish we could even have a fraction; courage to fight for the rights of themselves, their friends, their mothers, their sisters, and the generations of girls to come.”

Dr. Luna earned her doctorate in public health from the School of Public Health in 1988. “Studying public health at LLU,” she says, “taught me to look at the multiple factors that impact the health of individuals and populations—and to act locally while keeping the global impact in mind. We are all connected.”

]]>
Thu, 05 Dec 2013 10:48:44 -0800
4264:13841 <![CDATA[Specialists perform first trans-catheter aortic valve replacement at LLUMC]]> Briana Pastorino A joint team of cardiologists, cardiac and vascular surgeons, and cardiac anesthesiologists completed the first trans-catheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) at Loma Linda University Medical Center on October 28, and the patient is doing well. LLUMC is the first hospital in the Inland Empire to perform this type of procedure.

This new therapy is used to treat certain patients who are symptomatic with severe aortic valve stenosis, shortness of breath, chest pain, heart failure, light-headedness, and syncope. TAVR provides an alternative to open heart surgery for patients who are considered inoperable.  

The team consisted of cardiologists Anthony Hilliard, MD, and Kenneth Jutzy, MD; cardiothoracic surgeons Anees Razzouk, MD, and Rosario Floridia, MD; vascular surgeon Ahmed Abou-Zamzam, MD; Jason Gatling, MD, and Ryan Lauer, MD, from anesthesia; and echocardiographers Ramesh Bansal, MD, and Ramdas Pai, MD.

"This procedure requires the collaboration of cardiologists and cardiac surgeons to evaluate and select patients in order to provide the best outcomes," says Dr. Razzouk, chief of cardiothoracic surgery. "LLUMC was selected as the site to do this procedure, partially because our traditional approach to patient care has been a team approach, especially when it comes to cardiac patients. We work daily with cardiologists and other professionals to present the best options of care for our patients."

Typically, aortic valve replacement (AVR) can be lifesaving for patients with symptomatic aortic stenosis, however the process normally involves opening the chest, stopping the heart, and placing the patient on a cardiopulmonary bypass machine.

Because of the invasive nature of this approach, about 30 percent of patients with severe aortic stenosis who also have concomitant comorbidities are not considered surgical AVR candidates and would likely not survive beyond two years after symptom onset.

“With TAVR, patients can receive the treatment they need and experience a better quality of life,” says Dr. Jutzy, head of the department of cardiology.

TAVR is a nonsurgical approach that yields survival benefits equivalent to conventional AVR surgery but with shorter procedure times and reduced anesthesia requirements. The procedure involves replacing a narrowed aortic valve using less invasive catheter-based techniques, and the new valve is attached to a catheter inserted into the aorta. Procedure time for TAVR is generally two to three hours.

The TAVR program at Loma Linda University International Heart Institute includes a comprehensive team approach to assessment and treatment involving all participating departments. The team includes an intake coordinator, interventional cardiologists, cardiothoracic surgeons, cardiac anesthesiologists, echocardiographers, radiology professionals, vascular surgeons, nurses, and technologists specially trained in TAVR protocols.

For more information on the TAVR procedure, please call 1-855-LLU-VALVE (855-558-8258) or e-mail TAVR@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 05 Dec 2013 10:45:22 -0800
4264:13839 <![CDATA[Seeking amazing photos for prayer notes]]> Contributed report For the past 11 years, Loma Linda University Health has created an annual set of prayer notes to be used in patient care. Each card, similar to a postcard, has a beautiful nature photo printed on one side and an encouraging verse of scripture printed on the back. There is also a note that says, “I prayed for you today and asked God to bless you.”

The images are chosen from an annual employee photo contest. The deadline for the 2013 photo contest is Friday, December 6, 2013.

Following are the contest guidelines and rules:

  • Employees may submit up to ten color photos they have taken.
  • Images should be inspirational and promote feelings such as peace, strength, hope, or joy.
  • Photos must be cropped to fit a 5.5-inch by 3.5-inch card.
  • Photos with bright colors print well and are often chosen by the judges over more muted photos.
  • Submit photos in digital format on a CD labeled with the photographer's name, work extension, and work location. They may also be submitted via e-mail to kmcmillan@llu.edu with name, work extension, and location listed in the e-mail. If pictures are sent from a LLUMC e-mail account, the file must be deleted from the “sent mail” folder after sending to free up space on the servers.
  • Minimum resolution is 300 dpi at 3 x 5, and photos should be in jpeg format. Some cards will be printed for Children’s Hospital, so photos appealing to children are welcome.
  • The 1st place winner will receive a $100 gift card; second place, a $75 gift card; and third place will be awarded a $50 gift card. Runners-up will receive a $25 gift card.

 

Submit photos to Kathy McMillan, employee spiritual care, LLUMC room 4011. E-mail questions to kmcmillan@llu.edu or call ext. 48406.

]]>
Thu, 05 Dec 2013 10:19:27 -0800
4264:13696 <![CDATA[LLUH sends team to help with recovery efforts in the Philippines]]> Nancy Yuen Loma Linda University Health is actively involved in the relief and recovery effort in the Philippines following the destruction of Typhoon Haiyan. The typhoon, which struck on November 8, is one of the most powerful storms ever recorded.

The School of Public Health has deployed two staff at the request of Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA). Brett McPherson, emergency management supervisor, LLUH support services and Jessie Bliss, MPH, assistant dean, LLU office of public health practice, Center for Public Health Preparedness, School of Public Health, are now on-site.

They are carrying out an on-the-ground assessment to help ADRA assist people in areas hardest hit by the storm. The LLUH team is assisting with a three-week campaign of planning, health needs assessment, clinical care, and shelter deployment in areas devastated by the typhoon.

An estimated 4.4 million people have been displaced by the disaster. According to the Philippine government, the typhoon has killed more than 3,980 people and injured 18,266. More than 1,600 people are missing.

According to Beverly Buckles, DSW, dean, School of Behavioral Health, the LLUH International Behavioral Health Trauma Team is prepared to assist. The team’s response occurs during the second wave of support. According to Dr. Buckles, the team uses the time frames associated with Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) to determine the timing of the team’s intervention. As such, research shows that individuals generally return to their prior level of functioning, with ASD being resolved for approximately 80 percent of the population after 30 days, (if their basic needs for water, food, shelter, etc. are provided). During the next 30-day period it is generally thought that another 10 percent have adjusted post disaster. After 60 days is when mental health professionals begin to assess for PTSD – which is usually estimated at 10 percent of the population. Dr. Buckles points out that there are factors that affect these numbers such as long standing prior deprivation or multiple prior trauma experiences. The LLUH  International Behavioral Health Trauma Team will provide education, psychological first aid, and sustainable trauma resiliency training to local health care providers and NGOs, who will then assist those who need help.

According to Ryan Sinclair, PhD, MPH, assistant professor, School of Public Health, “LLU is known as a global hub for all aspects of health. Our Public Health Disaster Assistance and Relief Team [DART} is now working with ADRA international to conduct a rapid needs assessment on water and sanitation, logistics, and shelter among others, in select regions of the Philippines.” Dr. Sinclair has created a blog post highlighting ways people can assist: http://publichealthblog.org/blog/2013/11/19/volunteer-for-the-philippines-disaster-response.

Prayers and financial support are appreciated as LLUH responds to this crisis, bringing our expertise and compassion to those who need it most.

Those who would like to make a donation to support LLUH Typhoon Haiyan relief efforts may access: https://advancement.lluhealth.org/philippines.

 

 

 

]]>
Thu, 21 Nov 2013 12:42:41 -0800
4264:13694 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week]]> Heather Reifsnyder The three astute winners from last week are Margaret Hugelmaier, Angela Hall, and Selina Carrillo. These ladies correctly answered that Loma Linda University Health donated 15 acres for the Jerry L. Pettis Memorial Veterans Medical Center.

E-mail pr@llu.edu to claim your semi-awesome prize.

In honor of next week’s holiday, today’s question is about the Loma Linda University Health tradition of ThankSharing. This annual program is a way for LLUH to give back to community members, employees, and students by inviting them to an evening of inspirational music and reflection. In the spirit of sharing with others, admission is free with a donation of a non-perishable food item for community members in need.

“ThankSharing has become a beloved tradition here at Loma Linda because it is an event that allows us to reflect as a community on all of God’s blessings and His presence in our lives,” says Ruthita Fike, MA, CEO of Loma Linda University Medical Center.  

This year’s program took place last weekend, November 16, featuring performances by community members and members of the LLUH family. Highlights included Riverside singer Sarah Horn of YouTube fame and FOCUS, an Afro-centric gospel group. Michael Knecht, chief experience officer at LLUMC–Murrieta, gave a special message.

Question: Which administrator brought the ThankSharing tradition to Loma Linda University Health? E-mail the answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Monday, November 25, for a chance to win.

News of the Week will be on Thanksgiving break next Thursday, so look for the winners in our next issue on December 5.

 

]]>
Thu, 21 Nov 2013 12:38:36 -0800
4264:13692 <![CDATA[Time-lapse video: a day in the life of LLUMC]]> Advancement films ]]> A 50-second time-lapse video of the front of LLU Medical Center is captivating fans on Facebook. Check it out.

]]>
Thu, 21 Nov 2013 12:27:12 -0800
4264:13689 <![CDATA[Open enrollment ends tomorrow]]> Heather Reifsnyder NOTE: The phone number below is now correctly routing to HR, but the problem may be sporadic due to rain.

Open enrollment for benefits for select entities ends Friday, November 22, at 4:00 p.m. This is the time for employees to add a dependent to their health plan, choose life insurance, and set up a flexible spending account for 2014.

People must make their elections online via PeoplePortal (https://peopleportal.llu.edu) by that time. Log on and navigate to the employee self-service section: benefits: benefits enrollment. 

To help people who would like assistance as they sign up, the department of human resource management has set up an after-hours call center. The hours for the rest of the week are 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, November, 21, and 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. Friday, November 22. Assistance is available during normal work hours, as well. 

The number to call during the open enrollment period for personalized help is (909) 651-4114 or extension 14114. Please have your current username and password available at the time of the call.

The current open enrollment applies to employees of the following companies.

• LLUMC (health insurance, life insurance, flexible spending account)
• BMC (health insurance, life insurance, flexible spending account)
• LLUSS: (health insurance, life insurance, flexible spending account)
• LLUHC (health insurance, life insurance, flexible spending account)
• Loma Linda Inland Empire Consortium for Health Care Education: (health insurance and flexible spending account only)
• LLU (flexible spending account only)

 LLUMC–Murrieta employees have a separate benefits plan. For LLU employees, more information about health coverage enrollment will be provided by May of 2014.

]]>
Thu, 21 Nov 2013 12:15:27 -0800
4264:13686 <![CDATA[Payroll processing schedule for Thanksgiving week]]> The payroll department will be unable to process off-cycle checks (i.e. cash advances, terminations, and stop payments) on Tuesday, November 26, due to the Thanksgiving holiday on Thursday the 28th and Friday the 29th.   

Payroll processing has been moved up one day in order to meet payroll and banking deadlines. Payroll will resume off-cycle processing on Wednesday, November 27. The payroll department will be closed on Thursday and Friday in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday.

For questions, contact the payroll department at (909) 651-4004 or ext. 14004.

]]>
Thu, 21 Nov 2013 12:10:06 -0800
4264:13683 <![CDATA[Branding brief: Children's Hospital campaign]]> Heather Valentine The Loma Linda University Health branding campaign “Live It” continues to share the LLUH message of healthy lifestyle with the world by showcasing individuals who exemplify principles of healthful, whole living.  

As “Live It” print, television, and radio ads run across the country, LLUH is also beginning to highlight key areas of the organization with additional advertising.

New Children’s Hospital ads will begin running in the desert market this month. The goal of these ads is to raise awareness about the unique services LLUH offers as the sole Children’s Hospital and level 1 trauma center in the region. 

These advertisements follow the same style as the “Live It” campaign yet have unique messaging about how LLU Children’s Hospital is committed to serving the tiniest patients and their families.  

]]>
Thu, 21 Nov 2013 12:05:39 -0800
4264:13678 <![CDATA[Interstate 10 ramp closures this weekend]]> Heather Reifsnyder As part of the I-10 Tippecanoe interchange improvement project, construction activities will cause ramp closures this weekend from Friday, November 22 at 10:00 p.m. through Monday, November 25 at 6:00 a.m.

The eastbound Waterman Avenue on-ramp will be closed, as will the eastbound Tippecanoe/Anderson Street off-ramp.

Due to unforeseen issues or inclement weather, these dates and times are subject to change.

For more information:

http://sanbag.ca.gov/projects/interchange_tippecanoe.html

1 (800) 875-4990

]]>
Thu, 21 Nov 2013 12:01:59 -0800
4264:13674 <![CDATA[Alumna receives $1 million Opus Prize]]> Heather Reifsnyder The Huffington Post about Sakena Yacoobi, who won a major prize to fund her humanitarian work in Afghanistan. ]]> School of Public Health alumna Sakena Yacoobi, MPH, has received the $1-million Opus Prize for 2013 from Georgetown University’s Berkley Center for Religion, Peace & World Affairs.

It will fund her work with the Afghan Institute of Learning, which she founded in 1995 to promote education and health services for women and children in war-torn Afghanistan. 

Watch and read about her work to better humankind.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/11/14/sakena-yacoobi-opus-prize_n_4277015.html

Loma Linda University awarded Ms. Yacoobi a doctor of humanitarian service in 2008.

]]>
Thu, 21 Nov 2013 11:56:07 -0800
4264:13574 <![CDATA[Disaster drill set for next Thursday]]> Briana Pastorino Loma Linda University Health will continue its campus-wide disaster education efforts with the annual statewide drill on Thursday, November 21, from 8:00 a.m. until noon. Every hospital in the state of California will concurrently be participating in the exercise.

“This drill will give us an opportunity to test various procedures in place should we encounter an actual disaster or emergency situation,” says Brett McPherson, emergency management supervisor for LLUH. “We need to be prepared for the absolute worst case scenario, and intense planning and practice is the best way to do just that. It’s important that everyone on campus take these drills seriously and provide any constructive feedback upon their completion.”

The scenario this year deals with a food-borne disease that begins affecting numerous victims several days prior to the November 21 drill, heavily impacting staff and resource availability. During the drill, the command center will be in full force in Chan Shun Pavilion. Campus-wide communication will be facilitated through Send Word Now, VIP, and LLUH social media sites (Facebook and Twitter).

During the drill and in the event of an actual emergency, updates can be received by calling (909) 558-7979 or ext. 87979 to get a pre-recorded message about the status of the situation. Students and employees who are on campus can also get immediate updates about the drill on the intranet emergency page on VIP at http://vip.mc.llumc.edu/911.

If you use Facebook or Twitter and have any updates or concerns regarding the drill, please use #LLUH911Drill.

Students and employees are encouraged to regularly confirm their contact information in MyLLU (http://myllu.llu.edu/profile/contactinfo/) so that they only receive emergency notifications through preferred modes of communication such as text, pager, or e-mail. Even if the information listed is accurate, please make sure the proper modes of communication are selected for emergency notification.

Here are some general guidelines to be aware of when adding or editing contact information.

  1. If you do not wish to receive emergency notifications on a phone number that is listed, please select “N” under emergency notification. Make sure no number is listed more than once. Please make sure all old numbers are deleted. For example, if you no longer live with your parents, make sure your parents’ number is NOT listed.
  2. If you wish to receive cell phone texts, please make sure your cell phone number is listed under the Phone section and select “texting.”
  3. Your LLU e-mail will automatically receive emergency notification messages. Only list non-LLU e-mails in the e-mail section and select “yes” or “no” to specify if you would like to receive emergency notifications to that address. Please make sure no e-mail is listed more than once.
  4.  If you have a 2-way pager, it should automatically come up in your contact information. Please specify whether or not you would like your pager to receive emergency notifications.

If your contact information has not changed, please be sure to confirm that all outdated information has been deleted. When inputting your information, please be careful that all information is accurate. For questions about updating your contact information in PeoplePortal, please call Briana Pastorino at (909) 558-8357 or on-campus ext. 88357. 

Following the drill on Thursday, LLUH will assess the communication provided throughout the event with a short survey to be submitted online. Please be on the lookout for that message. 

For questions about the drill, please call (909) 651-4018 or on-campus ext. 14018.

 

]]>
Thu, 14 Nov 2013 12:26:45 -0800
4264:13570 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week]]> Heather Reifsnyder Last week we asked you who gave the keynote speech at the Children’s Hospital dedication on November 10, 1993. Before mentioning the winners, thanks for the chuckle to the person who answered Pope John Paul II.

David LeClaire, Moonyeen Zimmerman, and Connie Ganger are the three randomly chosen winners who correctly answered that the speaker was California First Lady Gayle Wilson. E-mail pr@llu.edu for your gift.

Your new challenge

In honor of LLU Health Care’s recent renewal of its contract to provide care for local veterans, our focus this week is Jerry L. Pettis Memorial Veterans Medical Center, which was named after Loma Linda University Health’s very own Jerry Pettis, former LLUH vice president and assistant professor who later became a U.S. Congressman. As a Congressman, he helped secure the hospital’s placement in Loma Linda to mutually benefit both institutions.

President Richard Nixon, California Governor Ronald Reagan, and Representative Pettis visited the Loma Linda University Health campus on August 21, 1971, to announce the forthcoming veterans hospital.

“I can think of nothing that does more to make friends for America abroad,” President Nixon said, “than that kind of selfless service by people like those from Loma Linda.”

Sweet.

Did you know that Loma Linda University Health donated the land on which the Pettis Memorial Veterans Medical Center sits? If you know how many acres the donation was, e-mail the answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Monday, November 18, for a chance to win.

]]>
Thu, 14 Nov 2013 11:54:14 -0800
4264:13563 <![CDATA[Children's Hospital celebrates 20th birthday in style]]> Briana Pastorino and Herbert Atienza Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital celebrated 20 years of service to the community this month with numerous events including a media event highlighting medical miracles and, of course, a free birthday bash extravaganza for the community. 

Children’s Hospital administrator Zareh Sarrafian, MBA, said of the celebration, “It was wonderful to see the community come together to help us celebrate this important milestone. The response we have received from our friends and supporters over the past week has been heartwarming and is a true testament to the impact we have had in our region as well as to the children and families that rely on Children’s Hospital for hope and healing.”

‘Medical Miracles’

Pediatric patients who survived incredible odds reunited with their doctors, nurses, and other medical providers on Thursday, November 7, to help kick off the 20th anniversary celebrations.

Mr. Sarrafian offered an introduction emphasizing the importance of every patient at LLU Children’s Hospital. “I wish I could highlight the story of every patient who has walked through our doors, because every one of them has a unique and inspiring story,” he said.

An emotional and touching scene ensued as the former patients greeted their doctors and nurses, recalling the circumstances that led to their being treated at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital.

The patients included sisters Crystal and Cristina Molina, 9, of Coachella, former conjoined twins who underwent extensive preoperative care and surgery at Children’s Hospital to separate them. The twins, and their parents, Bernardo and Blanca, met with pediatric neurosurgeon Alexander Zouros, MD, and plastic surgeon Andrea Ray, MD.

Former cancer patient Adriana Gurrola, 27, of Redlands, was treated for non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma when she was just 14. She was reunited with Jennifer Cruikshank, chief patient care director at LLU Children’s Hospital, who was Adriana’s nurse when she was being treated. Adriana is now a nurse herself in the neonatal intensive care unit at Children’s Hospital and credits the professionals at the hospital for helping inspire her to pursue a career in health care.

Finally, Hannah Grinnan, 15, of Redlands, a former transplant patient who received a new heart when she was only 11 days old, was reunited with her transplant surgeon Leonard Bailey, MD, who pioneered infant heart transplantation in 1984.  Hannah is now a cheerleader at Redlands High School, and Dr. Bailey is surgeon-in-chief at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital.

“It has been a calling and a privilege to serve our community, and we look forward to the next 20-plus years of providing world-class Christ-centered health care as we work together to make every person and child whole,” Mr. Sarrafian said.

Community celebration

Nearly 1,000 community members, including current and past patient families, filled the North Lawn of LLU Children’s Hospital on the evening of Sunday, November 10, for the official birthday party. Partygoers were treated to free entertainment for all ages.

Mercy Air landed the pediatric transport helicopter—which is solely dedicated to LLU Children’s Hospital—on the lawn. Families were able to sit in and tour the airship throughout the event.

The most popular attraction was by far the hot air balloon rides. A full-size balloon was tethered to the ground, however, it would lift about 20 feet in the air with six to eight riders in the basket during each lift. The line remained constant throughout the event.

Another big hit at the party was the live petting zoo. Nettie’s Party Pals brought ducks, chickens, goats, sheep, a pig, and a variety of rabbits. There was even a black velveteen rabbit, the breed that inspired the book by the same name.

“It was so soft it didn’t even feel real,” said Rachelle Bussell, CFRE, vice president of advancement at Loma Linda University Health. Ms. Bussell was boastful of the petting zoo throughout the night.

William Hayes, PhD, director for the Center for Biodiversity in the department of earth and biological sciences at LLU School of Public Health, also brought his reptile zoo, which included several snakes, lizards, and even a balloon-bearing turtle that greeted guests as they entered the area. Those who wanted to were able to pet and even hold some of reptiles.

If the kids weren’t riding the balloon, chasing ducks or holding a slithering snake, there were plenty of other activities to keep their attention. Partygoers enjoyed a multiple-game activity center, giant bounce house, family photo booth, and face painting. Food and drinks were available to guests from Urban Pie, Extreme Pita, and Seabird’s.

LLU Children’s Hospital mascot Luke the Lion also made an appearance. Luke sauntered through the party greeting guests and taking pictures with all his young fans.

Former patient Kimie Metcalf, 8, a leukemia survivor, led the crowd in a very enthusiastic “happy birthday” sing along.

At 6:00 p.m., attendees were treated to a movie in the park, “Homeward Bound,” which was released in 1993, the year Children’s Hospital opened its doors to the community.

For the grand finale, guests were treated to an illuminating fireworks show.

A proclamation

The City of Loma Linda honored Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital with a proclamation celebrating its 20th anniversary on the evening of Tuesday, November 12, during the City Council meeting. Mayor Rhodes Rigsby presented the proclamation to Kelly Jackson, director of marketing for LLUCH, who accepted the recognition on behalf of the hospital.

“On behalf of the City Council and citizens of this community,” Mayor Rigsby read from the proclamation, “I congratulate Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital on the occasion of their 20th anniversary celebration and ask for the continued support of the valued professionals, staff, community partners, and friends of Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital as they seek to enhance the lives of our community’s children by delivering in the promise of a healthier future today.”

Mr. Sarrafian, although unable to attend, expressed his appreciation for the proclamation. “It is an honor for Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital to be recognized by the city,” he said. “We are proud to partner with a community that shares our commitment to the promotion of a healthy lifestyle and disease prevention. Our organization looks forward to continuing to serve the precious young lives in our region for many more years to come.”

]]>
Mon, 11 Nov 2013 00:00:00 -0800
4264:13554 <![CDATA[Party on]]> Advancement films ]]> If you missed the Children's Hospital birthday bash, experience the joy of the event compacted into one minute.

]]>
Thu, 14 Nov 2013 10:32:42 -0800
4264:13552 <![CDATA[Notes from the President]]> Richard Hart, MD, DrPH

November 2013
The story of Afghanistan and Loma Linda

It was 1920 and Afghanistan was seeking help in bringing peace to warring factions. General Ghulam Mohammed Khan was part of a delegation sent to Mussoorie, India, to meet with British authorities. Located in northern India at an elevation of just over 6,000 feet, Mussoorie was a welcome retreat from the heat of India and a favorite of both the British and wealthy Indians, including Jawaharlal Nehru and his daughter, Indira Gandhi, later leaders of the country. General Khan was a retired Afghan general who was now the minister of trade and commerce for Afghanistan.

The peace delegation met for some weeks, during which time General Khan fell sick. The account in the Adventist magazine Review and Herald does not indicate what disease he had, but he was referred to the Adventist sanitarium in Mussoorie, where he was treated. Apparently impressed with the facility, he returned each day and eventually invited W.K. Lake, the superintendent of the institution, to come and establish health work in Kabul. General Khan promised safe travel and reimbursement for Lake’s costs. Though the ruling “ameer” of Afghanistan was a young man at the time, General Khan assured Lake that the ameer listened to the advice of his counselors, and the Adventists would be welcome.

As far as we can tell, that call for help went unanswered for 42 years. Then, in 1962, Gordon Hadley from Loma Linda University was working on assignment for the World Health Organization (WHO) at Christian Medical College in Vellore, India. WHO officials had received a request from Afghanistan to help strengthen the medical schools in Jalalabad and Kabul, so they contacted Dr. Hadley to ask if he and his wife, Alphie, would travel to Afghanistan to evaluate this opportunity.

Thus began a growing love and respect for the people of Afghanistan by Gordon Hadley. From that contact, a plan emerged that eventually took several key Loma Linda faculty to Afghanistan to work with their medical schools during the 1960s. On one of those trips, Roy and Betty Jutzy tell of it being so cold in their hotel room in Kabul that the water in the toilet bowl was frozen in the morning. It was during those early years that the name of Loma Linda University—and Gordon Hadley in particular—came to be revered in the country.

By the early 1970s, Afghanistan had descended into a protracted and bloody civil war that destroyed much of its infrastructure and eventually led to the Russian occupation, followed by the mujahideen resistance, and then the Taliban coming to power. Much of Kabul was destroyed and Afghanistan became a “survival economy” where everyone took advantage of any opportunity for subsistence.

But the hope of improvement burned in many hearts, and in the late 1990s, the Taliban leaders started redeveloping the national infrastructure, including their medical schools. To do so, they turned to an institution that still held their respect—Loma Linda University. They contacted us, and subsequently a small delegation, including Joan Coggin, traveled to Kabul to evaluate what could be done.

Following that initial visit, the Taliban leaders sent a delegation to Loma Linda, including the young minister of higher education, to emphasize their commitment to medical education. I had the privilege of participating in those meetings as Loma Linda leadership struggled with a tough question—does an honest request for humanitarian assistance outweigh concerns about politics and security? We didn’t know as much about the Taliban then as we do now, but its hold on the country was complete, with strict Islamic law and no education for girls.

To its eternal credit, Loma Linda made the decision to place human need above politics and engage with the Taliban government. We laid plans to establish a small compound in Kabul that could house our faculty while they taught at Kabul Medical University. The challenges were enormous, including a lack of textbooks and functional labs, an inadequate and dispirited faculty, minimal administrative support, and large classes of male students who would do anything to get ahead and become a “doctor.” While there was a large medical school building built by the Russians, it had suffered sufficient war damage and had no running water, electricity, or heat. To support our office space and lab, we installed a small generator and water well in the nearby courtyard to provide minimal amenities.

We were making small but steady progress in the medical school when the 9/11 attack on the World Trade Center and Pentagon occurred in 2001. Fortunately Loma Linda had no one in the country on that fateful day, as Kabul soon felt the full wrath of the Afghan Northern Alliance and the U.S. military. For weeks, we didn’t know who had survived and whether our compound had been destroyed. But word finally got out that our duplex and house were still intact, so we made plans to return in early 2002. Everything had changed by then, with multinational security forces everywhere and a relaxation of the controlled environment of the Taliban. I will never forget standing on a street corner in Kabul on that first visit, hearing a school bell ring, a door swing open, and scores of kids stream out—boys and girls—with U.N. school bags, laughing and shouting as children should.

Shortly thereafter, local politics forced us out of our compound, and we had to reassess our future in Afghanistan. The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) encouraged us to apply for a grant to manage the only orthopedic hospital in the country—Wazir Akbar Khan in Kabul. The next five years were filled with many challenges as we tried to bring better clinical skills and managerial techniques to the hospital, as well as continue our work with the medical school. A new apartment complex on the hospital compound was built for Loma Linda, providing a secure place for both long- and short-term staff. Jerry Daly managed the contract, while a series of alumni and others assisted in working at the hospital. Loma Linda’s reputation continued to be important as we worked our way through messy politics, bureaucratic impasses, a shortage of medicines and supplies, and many other hurdles. When the time finally came to turn the hospital over to the Afghan Ministry of Public Health, there was considerable sadness on both sides. Certainly the long legacy of Loma Linda in Afghanistan had been strengthened.

Sakena Yacoobi

In 1987-88, 25 years ago in Loma Linda, a young Afghan lady was sponsored by an American family to earn her MPH degree and chose to study at Loma Linda. I became acquainted with Sakena Yacoobi in the classroom. Bright and energetic, she was determined to make a difference back home, despite the civil war devastating her country at the time. On graduation day, in June 1988, Sakena invited Gordon and Alphie Hadley and my wife, Judy, and I to celebrate her accomplishment by sharing a traditional Afghan meal sitting on her bare apartment floor in Loma Linda.

Sakena was from Herat in the west of Afghanistan, but it was too dangerous to enter the country. So she started literacy programs for Afghan refugees in Peshawar, Pakistan, and other border cities. We heard from her occasionally as she continued pushing her dreams forward. Finally she went underground and reentered Afghanistan to start laying a foundation for the future. She established the Afghan Institute of Learning and started writing grants for expanding a system of private education. After 9/11, she could operate more freely in the country and established an office in Kabul.

During one of my visits to Kabul a few years ago, I decided to find Sakena. We finally got her phone number and established contact. She insisted on a visit, so we drove to her compound in a residential area of Kabul. It was great to talk again and see the impact she was already having in the country, particularly in education. As I was preparing to leave, she insisted I visit her School of Nursing. I agreed after she said it was located right there, in her compound. We walked out into the Afghan winter, with snow on the ground. Near the front gate, she turned to a shipping container with sheets of plastic hanging across the door. She pulled the plastic aside, and there inside sat 24 young Afghan women studying nursing in a shipping container with no heat and only a blackboard up front. With tears in my eyes, I vowed to never again complain about lack of resources.

Sakena sent me an e-mail some weeks ago. She planned to visit Loma Linda again and wanted to talk. We set a date and invited her to speak to our students that day. As she told her story in chapel, now in still-accented but much faster and animated English, the students were clearly moved and gave her a standing ovation. Sakena has been honored by many organizations for her vision and accomplishments, including our Doctor of Humanitarian Service in 2008. After chapel on her recent visit, we talked and her request was clear—help her start a new medical school at her hospital in Herat. Not sure what to do with that request! History tells us the challenge would be huge, but the Loma Linda legacy carries much hope in the hearts of that beleaguered country.

]]>
Thu, 14 Nov 2013 10:15:07 -0800
4264:13539 <![CDATA[LLU Health Care renews contract to care for U.S. veterans]]> Loma Linda University Health Care and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) signed a contract effective September 30 to continue the longstanding relationship with the Jerry L. Pettis Memorial Veterans Medical Center to provide primary care to more than 27,000 United States military veterans for another five years.

Loma Linda University Health Care provides care for the former members of the armed services at five community-based outpatient clinics in Corona, Murrieta, Palm Desert, Rancho Cucamonga, and Victorville.

Loma Linda University Health Care first treated veterans at an outpatient clinic in Victorville in 1997 with one doctor and one nurse. The current five clinics employ 24 physicians from the general internal medicine department of Loma Linda University Faculty Medical Group under the medical direction of Bevin Geslani, MD, along with 95 nurses and support staff who provide primary care for the veterans.

The new contract involves a major change in the way care is delivered to former military personnel. A patient-aligned care team (PACT) will now focus on the complete care of each veteran. The team consists of a physician, registered nurse care manager, and licensed vocational nurse or medical assistant. The team follows up with the veterans to enhance their care.

]]>
Mon, 11 Nov 2013 00:00:00 -0800
4264:13258 <![CDATA[Find music and inspiration at ThankSharing ]]> Nancy Yuen In what has become a beloved Loma Linda University Health tradition, ThankSharing is a time for members of the LLUH family to come together with the community to enjoy inspirational music.

The annual Thanksgiving concert will be held Saturday, November 16, at 7:00 p.m., in the Loma Linda University Church, 11125 Campus Street.

Among the local musical performers will be soloists, groups, and choirs—six of whom are students, employees, or friends of Loma Linda University Health: Sung Hee Lee, soprano: Julio Rodriguez, saxophone; Renald Lintong, vocalist; Joisanne Bailey, flutist; Chelsi Green, vocalist; and Alexis Ritumban, vocalist.

Another highlight will be performances by Riverside singer Sarah Horn of YouTube fame, who in August sang a duet at the Hollywood Bowl with actress and singer Kristin Chenoweth, and FOCUS, an Afro-centric gospel group. Michael Knecht, chief experience officer at LLUMC–Murrieta, will give a special message.

ThankSharing provides an opportunity to give back by contributing to community food banks; admission is free with a non-perishable food donation. For more information, call 1-877-LLUMC-4U.

]]>
Thu, 07 Nov 2013 12:42:55 -0800
4264:13250 <![CDATA[Photos: family health fair and 5K event]]> Heather Reifsnyder The Loma Linda University Health annual family health fair was a day to remember. During the event, held October 27, the community experienced LLUH’s mission and commitment to wholeness. Attendees learned more about their health status and living more healthfully through screenings, informational booths, and demonstrations.

For the second year the event included a 5K run/walk. Before the start of the race, Melinda Muganzo pumped up the crowd and led the 1,700-plus runners in a stretching exercise, and cheerleaders welcomed runners at the finish line.

One participant completed the event with his son, who is a long distance runner. “It was a good run,” he says. “It was challenging for someone like me who doesn’t run very much; my son and I both had a great time.”

The family health fair, held at Drayson Center, proved popular for both adults and kids. More than 2,500 people attended the fair, with kids squealing with delight at the reptile petting zoo, playing games, and lining up at the face-painting booth.

Learning about ones’ health and how to “Live It” was the theme of the day. Health testing included flu shots and blood screenings. Attendees enjoyed delicious vegetarian food, and new this year, Chef Cory Gheen presented live cooking demonstrations, which proved to be a huge hit.

It’s not too soon to mark your calendar to attend the next Family Health Fair, which will be held on Sunday, October 26, 2014.

]]>
Thu, 07 Nov 2013 12:31:05 -0800
4264:13248 <![CDATA[LLU Medical Center wins Consumer Choice Award ]]> Larry Kidder Once again, for the 18th consecutive year, Loma Linda University Medical Center has received the Consumer Choice Award for the Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario market, according to Pamela Masker, senior business development manager for the National Research Corporation’s Market Insights, the organization bestowing the award.

“Congratulations,” writes Ms. Masker. “You are one of only 17 sole winners [in their markets] in the nation.” She continues, “You are one of 37 hospitals that can claim to have been recognized for 18 years running (this number including co-winners as well).”

The Consumer Choice Award is based on a national survey of 270,000 households, known as Market Insights, by the National Research Corporation. In the local Inland Empire market, just under 3,000 households were surveyed.

Area hospitals were rated by consumers for best overall quality, best image and reputation, best doctors, and best nurses.

An official announcement of the Consumer Choice Award winners will be included in the October 21, 2013, edition of Modern Healthcare magazine.

]]>
Thu, 07 Nov 2013 12:24:08 -0800
4264:13243 <![CDATA[Changes to health insurance plans]]> Heather Reifsnyder For 2014, employees are being provided with two health plan choices, the Wholeness Plan and the Base Plan. New changes will take effect in January for employees of all Loma Linda entities except those who work for Loma Linda University—for them, the changes take place in July—and LLUMC–Murrieta, which has a separate benefits plan.

Unless an employee chooses otherwise, his/her existing health plan coverage will continue under the Wholeness Plan. Employees and their covered spouses will be required to complete a health risk assessment and biometric screening process in the first quarter 2014. This confidential report will only be provided to the employee and not shared without authorization.

The purpose of these assessments is to ensure that all employees are experiencing maximum health and wellness. This will allow all employees to Live It—to experience for themselves and be ambassadors of the Loma Linda University Health message of wellness and wholeness. 

Employee monthly contribution to health plans will remain unchanged for those who participate in the Wholeness Plan. To choose this option, no action is required.

If an employee prefers not to participate in the health screenings and enhanced care options, he/she may make an election to participate in the Base Plan. Full-time employees who choose the Base Plan will see monthly contributions increase an additional $25 for single coverage, $50 for two-party coverage, and $75 for family coverage. Co-pays will also increase.

To opt in to the Base Plan, all employees except University staff and faculty must enroll by November 22. Complete open enrollment to make this change.

For university employees, the schedule to make health plan changes will be announced at a later date ahead of their changes taking effect in July 2014.

Full details are available by downloading the two documents below.

Employees are also invited to informational and enrollment sessions for the health plan changes held throughout next week, November 11 through 15. The schedule for these Snack and Learn sessions can also be downloaded below.

 

]]>
Thu, 07 Nov 2013 12:17:20 -0800
4264:13241 <![CDATA[The place to be: Children's Hospital 20th birthday party]]> Herbert Atienza It’s a weekend must. Children of all ages and their families are invited to enjoy an outdoor family movie, games, and a fireworks finale on Sunday, November 10, to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital.

The festivities, open and at no cost to the public, will be held from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. on the Loma Linda University Medical Center lawn. Participants are encouraged to bring blankets, chairs, and a picnic basket to the family movie at 6:00 p.m.

Activities in store for the event also include hot air balloon rides, exhibits, and a petting zoo. Wholesome food will be offered for sale by food vendors.

“It’s hard to believe that it’s been 20 years since our region has been blessed by the opening of Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital,” says Zareh Sarrafian, Children’s Hospital administrator.

“Over the last two decades, our hospital has had a tremendous impact on the lives and health care of our children. On behalf of our doctors, nurses, and staff, I would like to thank all our patients, families, and supporters for entrusting us to provide world-class care to the most precious people in our lives,” he says.

Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital opened 20 years ago as the only facility of its kind in the Inland Empire, with 275 beds and one of the world’s largest newborn intensive care units. Now with 348 beds, it remains the only dedicated children’s hospital in a four-county region—Riverside, San Bernardino, Mono, and Inyo counties—with a population of about 4.5 million.

]]>
Thu, 07 Nov 2013 12:12:59 -0800
4264:13239 <![CDATA[A city of gardens]]> Two community garden sites owned by the City of Loma Linda have been abandoned for several years, but have the potential to become active hubs for community gatherings, workshops, and food production.

Healthy Loma Linda, an initiative founded with significant involvement from Loma Linda University students, is hosting a workshop to discuss revitalizing these sites and to encourage greater involvement in backyard and community gardening.

Community members are encouraged to attend the free meeting, taking place on Wednesday, November 13, from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. at the Loma Linda Civic Center Community Room at 25541 Barton Road, Loma Linda.

The workshop will also focus on local tree planting and removal policies, with the aim of forming a tree committee working group to maintain the value that trees add to the local community.

A local initiative to bring a farm-share distribution program to employees, residents, and students in Loma Linda will also be presented.

Representatives from the City of Loma Linda, Loma Linda University, the City of Redlands, Old Grove Farm Share, UReach Community Outreach Center, Poplar Street Apartments, and Incredible Edibles Community Garden will be taking part in the discussion.

For more information

www.facebook.com/HealthyLomaLinda

or

Elizabeth Foulkes
LLU School of Public Health Student Association
efoulkes@llu.edu
(909) 203-6104

]]>
Thu, 07 Nov 2013 12:03:22 -0800
4264:13237 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week]]> Nancy Yuen and Heather Reifsnyder Well done, Imelda Hatchett-Mitchell and Lisa Marie Benanti, who were our only two answerees to know how many people employed by Loma Linda University Health maintain a dual appointment with the department of health ministries, General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. Imelda and Lisa can claim their prizes by e-mailing pr@llu.edu. Our third winner is Theresa Bashan, whose answer was the next closest to correct.

The answer is six. These individuals are:   

• Carlos Fayard, PhD, associate professor, psychiatry, School of Medicine; assistant director, mental health affairs, department of health ministries, General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists (GC);

• Dan Giang, MD, associate dean, graduate medical education, School of Medicine; associate director, medicine, GC;

• Craig Jackson, JD, MSW, dean, School of Allied Health Professions; associate director, allied health professions, department of health ministries, GC;

• Pat Jones, PhD, MS, professor of nursing, School of Nursing; associate director, nursing, department of health ministries, GC;

• Doyle Nick, DDS, associate professor, restorative dentistry, School of Dentistry; associate director, dentistry, department of health ministries, GC; and

• Tricia Penniecook, MD, MPH, dean, School of Public Health; associate director, public health, department of health ministries, GC.

Today’s question

Sunday’s 20th anniversary celebration for Children’s Hospital takes place exactly ten years after the dedication service on November 10, 1993. What was the name of the keynote speaker at the ceremony? Your hint: his or her title has an ordinal number in it.

E-mail your answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Monday, November 11, for a chance to win.

]]>
Thu, 07 Nov 2013 11:57:54 -0800
4264:13219 <![CDATA[Watch: Children's Hospital patient's life today after battling cancer]]> Advancement films ]]> Before Kimie Metcalf started kindergarten, a routine blood test revealed she had leukemia. So, how much energy does Kimie have today? Watch and find out. 

]]>
Wed, 06 Nov 2013 16:27:15 -0800
4264:13075 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week]]> Nancy Yuen Here is the correct response to last week’s trivia question. When the University of Southern California closed its medical school in 1920, the College of Medical Evangelists, as Loma Linda University was then known, accepted junior and senior medical students so that they could finish their training here. Keck School of Medicine was also accepted as a correct answer.

Carl Canwell, Karen Saul, and Kristina Larios - you are last week’s trivia of the week winners. Your names were drawn from the 59 correct responses received by the midnight, Monday, deadline. E-mail pr@llu.edu to claim your gift.

New rules for the trivia challenge: winners will be randomly chosen from those who correctly answer the question by the following Monday at midnight.

Here is this week’s question:

The General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists department of health ministries' mission is to demonstrate God's love by promoting whole-person health principles to Adventist Church leaders, members, and the community at large, assisting people from all ages, gender, and ethnicity in reaching their full potential for wholeness and a productive and abundant life. The department of health ministries maintains several positions on the LLUH campus. How many members of the Adventist Church's department of health ministries leadership and staff work for LLUH maintaining dual roles, both with LLUH and with the department of health ministries?

Send your answer to this week’s trivia question to pr@llu.edu by midnight Monday, November 4, for your chance to win a somewhat incredibly awesome prize.

]]>
Thu, 31 Oct 2013 11:59:30 -0700
4264:13064 <![CDATA[New data: market share for LLUH hospitals reaches 10.04 percent]]> Nancy Yuen Residents of the Inland Empire have many choices when it comes to health care. They choose Loma Linda University Health’s main campus hospitals, the LLU Behavioral Medicine Center, and LLU Medical Center - Murrieta because of the high level of care and services offered; other factors include whether our facilities are patient-friendly and accessible.

Each year data is released that shows where residents within the LLUH service area have chosen to receive health care for themselves and their families. The report reveals the LLUH percentage of the inpatient market share. New market share data has recently been released.

For the year of the report (2012), all LLUH hospitals combined captured 10.04 percent of the inpatient market share for our service area. In comparison, the region’s county hospitals, Arrowhead Regional Medical Center and Riverside Community Regional Medical Center, together took 11.1 percent of Inland Empire’s inpatient market share.

These results are impressive. According to Tammy Veach, executive director of marketing, LLUH, this is the most significant increase in market share for LLUH in 10 years. Our organization had not projected reaching the 10 percent goal to be net for another two years.

Note: LLU Medical Center - Murrieta share estimated, all data excludes normal newborns.

]]>
Thu, 31 Oct 2013 11:46:56 -0700
4264:13055 <![CDATA[Loma Linda University Children's Hospital celebrates 20 years with special events and festivities]]> Herbert Atienza Children of all ages and their families are invited to take part in a free outdoor family movie, games, and a fireworks finale on Sunday, November 10, to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital (LLUCH).

The festivities, open and no cost to the public, will be held from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. on the Loma Linda University Medical Center lawn. Participants are encouraged to bring blankets, chairs, and a picnic basket to the family movie at 6:00 p.m.

“It’s hard to believe that it’s been 20 years since our region has been blessed by the opening of Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital,” LLUCH administrator Zareh Sarrafian said.

“Over the last two decades, our hospital has had a tremendous impact on the lives and health care of our children. On behalf of our doctors, nurses, and staff, I would like to thank all our patients, families, and supporters for entrusting us to provide world-class care to the most precious people in our lives,” he said.

Activities in store for the event include hot air balloon rides, exhibits, and a petting zoo. Wholesome food will be offered for sale by food vendors.

LLUCH opened 20 years ago as the only facility of its kind in the Inland Empire, with 275 beds and one of the world’s largest newborn intensive care units. The cost of building the hospital was $36 million.

Since then, LLUCH has developed into a leading medical center focused on the health of the smallest, most vulnerable, and sickest patients. Now with 348 beds, it remains the only dedicated children’s hospital in a four-county region - Riverside, San Bernardino, Mono, and Inyo counties - with a population of about 4.5 million.

LLUCH has pioneered and continues to lead in the area of infant heart transplantation. It has received acclaim for its many programs to treat pediatric patients, including proton treatment for cancer, trauma care, physical rehabilitation, intensive and acute care, and organ transplantation.

]]>
Thu, 31 Oct 2013 11:35:59 -0700
4264:13039 <![CDATA[Dishes for Wishes raises money and awareness for LLU Children's Hospital]]> James Ponder Members of the Big Hearts for Little Hearts Loma Linda Guild are celebrating the success of the 14th annual Dishes for Wishes Cooking School fundraiser, which was held on Wednesday, October 23, at the Orange Show Events Center in San Bernardino to benefit Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital.

“The 14th annual Dishes for Wishes event was spectacular!” reports Dolores Aeberli, guild president. “We are grateful to Lexus of Riverside, our corporate sponsor, for their incredible generosity again this year. They have been so supportive, not only of this event, but of everything we’ve done to help the children in our region. We want to salute them as well as all of our supporters, sponsors, and vendors.” 

Ms. Aeberli said Angie Temple, who served as chair for the second year in a row, did an absolutely fabulous job. 

“In addition to putting everything together, she recruited some of the best culinary talent in the Inland Empire for her Farm-to-Table theme, and the food was just unbelievable,” Ms. Aeberli continued. “Martha Green, of course, was amazing. Martha has served as master of ceremonies every year since the event started in 1999. She’s witty and charming; she kept the audience entertained and presented three delicious desserts from her bakery. We owe so much to Martha.”

Celebrity chefs who demonstrated their talents at the event included: Woody Kerr, resident chef at Kitchen Kitchen in Indian Wells; Angela Alce, owner of Dhat Island Caribbean Creole Cuisine in Redlands; Anastacio Rodriguez, executive chef of Loma Linda University Medical Center - Murrieta; Lee Burton, caterer and personal chef, of Redlands; Itztli DeLaTorre, executive chef of Speakeasy in Redlands; and Martha Green, owner of Dough’Lectibles and Martha Green’s Eating Room, both in Redlands. 

Officers from the Colton, Loma Linda, San Bernardino County, and Redlands fire departments as well as their colleagues from the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department served as waiters throughout the evening.

An estimated 350 people attended the event. Ms. Aeberli said the amount of money raised by the event was not available as this edition of News of the Week went to press, but she said it was considerable.

]]>
Thu, 31 Oct 2013 11:17:48 -0700
4264:13035 <![CDATA[New parking structure to open November 1]]> James Ponder The new LLUH parking structure on Campus Street is scheduled to open this Friday, November 1. According to Robert Cole, project superintendent, the 1,170 new parking spaces the structure provides will go a long way toward making sure everyone who comes to the campus of Loma Linda University Health can find a place to park.

“Right now, the structure will open for parking only,” Mr. Cole says, noting that offices of the security and parking departments are not slated for occupancy until mid-December or later.

Of the total, 1,147 will be regular parking spaces, 12 designated Americans with Disabilities Act accessible spaces, 8 charging stations for electric vehicles, and 3 for carpool vans. 

Mr. Cole says the budget for the project was $20,884,491.53. He anticipates the project will come in very close to the target. “If we go over budget,” he observes, “it won’t be by much, and if we come in under budget, it won’t be by much.”

The project was started in November 2012, and required 18,000 cubic yards of concrete to complete. At 4,000 pounds per cubic yards, the concrete weighs approximately 72 million pounds. The structure also contains 198,000 pounds of rebar.

Mr. Cole credits Bomel Construction of Anaheim Hills for completing the project ahead of schedule—it was originally scheduled to open the first week in December—and for the fact that construction has been nearly injury free. “There were no lost work days,” he adds.  

]]>
Thu, 31 Oct 2013 11:03:28 -0700
4264:13032 <![CDATA[Fire alarm notification appliances: why are they so loud?]]> Chris Kana, fire protection systems technician, environmental health and safety At Loma Linda University Health, some buildings also have a voice evacuation system installed that can be used by personnel to give specific live information and/or instructions over the alarm system’s speakers using a built-in microphone. This provides a distinct advantage over horns or bells. Not all of our buildings have this feature yet, but I’m working on it.

I receive numerous complaints that the level of fire alarm speakers or horns is set too loud. Let me try to explain the reason the decibel level or noise level is set the way it is.

A fire alarm notification appliance is an active fire protection component. A notification appliance may use an audible or visible warning to alert the occupants of a fire or other emergency condition requiring action. In the United States, fire alarm evacuation signals generally consist of a standardized audible tone, with visual notification in all public and common use areas. Emergency signals are intended to be distinct and understandable to avoid confusion with other signals.

Alerting methods include:

  • Sound (audible signals) horns and speakers in the 65 decibel to 120 decibel range with a weighted rating at 10 feet from the device.
  • Light (visible signals) 15 to 1,000 candela at 1 flash per second strobe lights or white or red incandescent lights.

NFPA 72, Chapter 7, Notification Appliances, outlines requirements for mounting heights and loudness for fire alarm notification appliances. NFPA 72 states that audible fire alarm notification appliances used in the public mode must be a minimum of 15 dB (decibels) above average ambient sound levels. A typical office is between 50 and 60 decibels average ambient sound level.

A good rule of thumb is that up to six dB is lost every time you double the distance from the horn or speaker. Audible notification appliances are rated at 10 feet from the appliance. So, if you had a horn rated at 85 dBA at 10 feet and you measured the sound level at 20 feet, you could be as low as 79 dBA.

How much sound is actually lost is determined by the materials in the room. If the room has acoustical ceiling and carpets, more sound is lost than if the walls and ceiling are drywall and the floors are tile.

Another factor in determining sound levels in a given location is factoring for sound loss through doors. If a door is open, you will typically lose 4 dB to 12 dB. If you close the door, that loss will increase to 10 dB to 24 dB, depending on whether it is a hollow core door or a solid door. Sealing the openings around the door increases the sound loss to 22 dB to 34 dB. Unfortunately, not every LLUH room is equipped with an audible device, so the area in which the device is located must be adjusted to accommodate the other areas it serves.

Note: This post appears in “Speaking of Safety blog,” a two-way communication tool created to increase communication among LLUH safety coordinators and the department of environmental health and safety.

]]>
Thu, 31 Oct 2013 10:53:09 -0700
4264:13029 <![CDATA[Annual ThankSharing food drive: help provide food for our community]]> Nancy Yuen Statistics show there are more than 350,000 people living in poverty in Riverside and San Bernardino counties, and 500,000 more live in economically disadvantaged households. Every day, they struggle to provide food required to live a healthy, active life for themselves and for their families.

To help, Loma Linda University Health staff are invited to donate non-perishable food items each year as a part of the annual ThankSharing celebration. This year’s food collection drive started on October 29 and runs through November 14.

Food collection bins will remain at the following locations until November 14:

  • LLUMC: lobby
  • LLUMC - East Campus: staff lounge
  • LLU Behavioral Medicine Center: administration
  • LLU Behavioral Health Institute: first floor foyer
  • LLU Heart and Surgical Hospital: employee entrance
  • Professional Center/Meridian (25835 Barton Road): PACE break room
  • Customer Care Center (245 E. Redlands Blvd., Suite A): break room
  • Mountain View Plaza IT: administration room 223
  • LLUAHSC 101: employee lounge

Teaser: Loma Linda University Health staff are invited to donate non-perishable food items each year as a part of the annual ThankSharing celebration. This year’s food collection drive started on October 29 and runs through November 14. 

]]>
Thu, 31 Oct 2013 10:24:52 -0700
4264:13028 <![CDATA[Fall open enrollment for health benefits: kickoff to occur as part of LLUH employee benefits fair]]> Nancy Yuen Plan now to attend “Passport to Benefits,” the LLUH benefits fair sponsored by the department of human resource management. The kickoff for fall open enrollment for employee health plans will take place during the Passport to Benefits fairs, November 5 through 7. A list of fair times and locations for the various LLUH entities is available at http://bit.ly/16p6AEh.

During the assigned benefits fair for each LLUH entity, opportunities will be available for staff to learn more about their benefits and to review available choices. Employees may also receive assistance with the benefits election process at open enrollment computer labs at each fair.

Employees who plan to add a dependent to their LLUH health plan for the first time should bring proof of relationship documents (e.g., marriage certificate) to the human resource management benefits booth. Changes made during fall open enrollment (November 5 to 22, 2013), will become effective on January 1, 2014.

The following fairs will feature fire extinguisher training and decontamination training, and flu shots:

  • Fire Extinguisher training and decontamination training will be offered at the LLUAHSC 101, LLUMC East Campus, FMO, and Medical Center fairs. 
  • Flu shots for UHC employees will be offered at LLUAHSC 101, East Campus, FMO, and Medical Center fairs.
  • Flu shots for MC, BMC and USS employees will be offered at every fair except Highland Springs.

Questions about employee benefits may be emailed to Benefits@llu.edu while questions about employee health benefit enrollment should be directed to PeopleSoftSupport by phone at (909) 651-4114 or ext. 14114, or by e-mail at PeopleSoftSupport@llu.edu.

Questions about health plans should be directed to the department of risk management at (909) 651-4010.

 

]]>
Thu, 31 Oct 2013 10:24:32 -0700
4264:13022 <![CDATA[Career Profile - Physician Assistant ]]> ]]> There are so many careers available that it's hard to decide which one is right for you. These videos were made to help students explore different areas in the health care system. We asked working professionals to reveal why they chose their career, both the positives and negatives of their jobs, and who they think might be a good match for their career.

]]>
Wed, 30 Oct 2013 11:20:08 -0700
4264:12931 <![CDATA[Employees recognized during 2013 Spiritual Life & Wholeness Leadership Banquet]]> Nancy Yuen On Tuesday, October 22, 36 employees were recognized during the 9th Annual Spiritual Life & Wholeness Leadership Banquet. Celebrating with them were family members, loved ones, and colleagues. The event was held in Wong Kerlee International Conference Center.

Spiritual Life Service Awards are presented to employees of LLUH in recognition of a vibrant faith in God that leads to extraordinary care for the spiritual well-being of others and an effective ability to bring hope and meaning in the midst of educational or health care challenges. Each received a copy of the book My Utmost for His Highest, by Oswald Chambers, an early 20th century Scottish Baptist minister, as well as a certificate.

Recipients of the 2013 Spiritual Life Service Award are:

Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center: Sandra Ayala and Jennifer Guerrero.

Loma Linda University: Brenda Boyd, Terry Douglas, Andrew Haglund, Liane Hewitt, Marilyn Kelly, Esperanza Lundgrin, Helen Martinez, Yolanda Martinez, Mindy Morrell, Catherine Oms, Teri Ross, Kimberlee Skoretz, and Kathi Wild.

Loma Linda University Health Care: Leanne Flores, Judy Garcia, Delia Sanchez, and Laura Thoreson.

Loma Linda University Medical Center: Elizabeth Anderson, Arelis Benitez, Susan Bentley, Larry Feenstra, Miyuki Isogai, Melinda Juhl, Silvia Kite, Laura Kivett, J. Wally Pierce, M. Elizabeth Rangel, Beth Rose, and Lori Scott.

Loma Linda University Shared Services: Nikki Gaitan and Larry Kidder.

Loma Linda University Medical Center–Murrieta: Peggy Brock, Jennifer McMahon, and John Quintans.

The 2013 Spiritual Life & Wholeness Leadership Award was presented to Carla Gober-Park, PhD, MS, MPH, director, Center for Spiritual Life & Wholeness. Dr. Gober-Park consistently receives wonderful evaluations from her students for her teaching about whole-person care," says Dr. Winslow. "For several years, she has led the Center for Spiritual Life and Wholeness. In that leadership role, she has represented Loma Linda University as a much-sought speaker throughout North America and around the world. She has organized major conferences on campus, and, recently, has led our entire organization in the adoption and promulgation of a creative model of providing spiritually nurturing, whole-person care to our patients. This CLEAR model is now being taught to our students and to our clinicians. She is also the key source of energy in the creation of the Wholeness Portal, an interactive website designed to help students, faculty members, and many other constituencies on their journey toward high-level health and wholeness." Dr. Gober-Park was recognized for these and many more contributions to the achievement of the faith-inspired mission of LLUH.

]]>
Thu, 24 Oct 2013 09:18:57 -0700
4264:12958 <![CDATA[Featured video: Outreach through soccer]]> Office of enrollment ]]> Goal 4 Health is a Christian community soccer league for families all over the Inland Empire. Sponsored through LLU's Community-Academic Partners in Service office (CAPS), Goal 4 Health promotes physical activity and health education while providing a safe, nurturing place for families to exercise and fellowship.

]]>
Thu, 24 Oct 2013 12:06:46 -0700
4264:12956 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week]]> Heather Reifsnyder Kyle Cothran, James Lynch, and Carlos Fierro—you are last week’s winners. You each were quickest on the draw to correctly answer that the School of Health Related Professions changed its name to the School of Allied Health Professions in the year 1971. E-mail pr@llu.edu to claim your gift.

Starting this week, we’re taking speed out of the trivia challenge. Winners will be randomly chosen from anyone who correctly answers the question by the following Monday at midnight.

Are you ready for today’s challenge?

In 1920, another Southern California university closed its medical school. The College of Medical Evangelists, as Loma Linda University was then known, accepted junior and senior medical students from that university so they could finish their training here. Thirty-three of these students graduated from the College of Medical Evangelists in 1921, followed by about 15 the next year.

Dr. Judith Ahlem was one of those students. “I shall always be grateful to you and those others who made it possible for us to come to your school,” she wrote in a letter to Dr. Percy Magan, one of the leaders of the College of Medical Evangelists School of Medicine.

“I also want you to remember that the life of at least me was thereby changed for the good,” said Dr. Ahlem, who became a Seventh-day Adventist based on her experience at the College of Medical Evangelists.

“I am glad that the dear Lord has answered so many of my prayers, because it makes me feel that my life may not be in vain after all,” she wrote. 

What university did Dr. Ahlem and her fellow classmates come from before finishing their training at the College of Medical Evangelists?

Send your answer to pr@llu.edu by midnight Monday, October 28, for a chance to win.  

]]>
Thu, 24 Oct 2013 12:01:02 -0700
4264:12947 <![CDATA[Anaheim Ducks fight cancer with Loma Linda University Cancer Center]]> Briana Pastorino National Hockey League team the Anaheim Ducks joined Loma Linda University Health in the fight against cancer. As part of a month-long, league-wide initiative, the Ducks celebrated Hockey Fights Cancer Night to raise awareness for Loma Linda University Cancer Center on Sunday, October 20. The interactive evening encouraged fan participation in a variety of ways including the creation of “Inspiration Cards,” recognizing loved ones affected by cancer.

“This was the perfect opportunity for Loma Linda University Cancer Center to reach out to a broader audience about cancer awareness,” says Judy Chatigny, MSN, executive director for the Cancer Center. “It was so inspiring to see the fans respond to our attendance, as well as share their own stories of cancer survival.”

Prior to the game, attendees were encouraged to complete Inspiration Cards with the names of those people who, through fighting cancer, inspire them. During the second period, there was a moment of recognition during which everyone was encouraged to hold up the lavender cards in honor of those individuals.

“So many people have been directly affected by cancer. This interactive evening gives the fans an opportunity to stand up and really fight back,” said Mark Reeves, MD, director of LLU Cancer Center, in an interview with Fox Sports before the game. “So many cancer patients do that courageously. This allows us to remind the community that it’s so important to support the patients as well as the professionals helping them in their fight.”

Also recognized during the game were the Inland Women Fighting Cancer founders Annie Sellas, Cathy Stockton, and Nancy Varner, who served as the game’s “Community Heroes” and participated in a ceremonial puck drop. The three women banded together in 2007 and have raised $1.7 million for Loma Linda University Cancer Center through the annual Believe Walk in Redlands.

The 6th annual Believe Walk, held on October 6, 2013, welcomed roughly 11,250 walkers composed of kids, adults, families, and teams from all over the Inland Empire. The scope of the event has grown immensely since the inaugural walk in 2007, which had approximately 1,400 participants.

With lavender serving as the official Hockey Fights Cancer color (representing awareness for all types of cancers), Ducks players had lavender Hockey Fights Cancer decals affixed on their helmets during the game and will wear them throughout the month. The Power Players and mascot sported lavender ribbons, and the first 3,000 fans inside the Honda Center received ribbons as well.

To add to the excitement of the evening, the Ducks earned their 7th consecutive win, beating the Dallas Stars 6-3.

]]>
Thu, 24 Oct 2013 11:41:06 -0700
4264:12944 <![CDATA[LLUH Living Whole employee wellness program offers incentive for local race]]> Larry Kidder Loma Linda University Health’s Living Whole employee wellness program has added running to its list of promoted activities, which include nutrition education and counseling, as well as a variety programs to increase physical and emotional wellness among approximately 14,000 LLUH employees and more than 4,000 students.

The Lopers 24th Annual Holiday Classic race will take place on Sunday, December 1. LLUH employees and students are encouraged to sign up. The annual race will include a half marathon, 5k run, and a quarter-mile “Elves Trot” for children ages 3 to 6. Loma Linda University Health is title sponsor for the event.

The race will begin at the intersection of Barton Road and Loma Linda Drive, near the Loma Linda Civic Center.

As an incentive for LLUH employees and students, the Living Whole employee wellness program will provide a $40 credit toward sign-up fees for the event when employees and students provide their EID number when they register. The EID number is located on their employee identification badge.

Those who register before November 15 will also receive a free T-shirt at the end of the race while supplies last.

Thursday, November 28, is the final day for online registration. Race day registration begins at 6:00 a.m. The half marathon and 5K will start at 7:00 a.m., followed by the Elves Trot at 8:00 a.m.

A free pancake breakfast will also be provided for half-marathon and 5K participants. For fees, sign-up, and additional race information, visit http://www.lopersclub.org/holiday-classic.aspx.

Training sessions for the event are held on Sunday mornings beginning at 6:30 a.m. at LLU Drayson Center. The Holiday Classic and training sessions are organized by the Loma Linda Lopers. Visit www.lopersclub.org for information about training sessions.

For more information regarding activities and benefits offered through the Living Whole program, e-mail livingwhole@llu.edu or call ext. 14007.

]]>
Thu, 24 Oct 2013 00:00:00 -0700
4264:12941 <![CDATA[Walk smarter: how to protect yourself from traffic]]> Lingling Chao and Heather Reifsnyder In recent weeks, two vehicle-pedestrian scares occurred on Campus Street. While everyone is OK, in response, officials from the departments of parking & traffic and environmental health & safety observed the Campus Street crosswalk and determined that in some cases, pedestrian behavior causes part of the risk. Pedestrians need to remain cautious in case drivers are not as careful as they should be.

“The new parking structure will open soon, and pedestrian traffic will only increase,” says Jordan Roddy, director of environmental health & safety. “We need to be vigilant about pedestrian safety.”

The following hazardous pedestrian behavior was observed:
• Use of cell phones during street crossing
• Jaywalking
• Lack of eye contact with drivers

Rules for safe crossing:

• When reaching the curb, stop.
• Look left then right.
• Make eye contact with oncoming drivers.
• Ensure all traffic has stopped before stepping into the crosswalk.
• If possible, cross at the same time as other pedestrians.

 For more information, call environmental health & safety at extension 14018 or 14019.

]]>
Thu, 24 Oct 2013 11:26:10 -0700
4264:12940 <![CDATA[Weekly mindfulness sessions help employees lessen stress]]> Krista Miller and Nancy Yuen Deadlines, multiple priorities, and stress are a part of everyday life. But research is revealing that there are simple techniques available to combat these anxieties. Loma Linda University Health is offering a way to help employees reap these benefits.

According to John Testerman, MD, PhD, chair, family medicine department, mindfulness is being fully present and open to one’s life experiences while they are happening, instead of being lost in thoughts and worries about the past or future. “Mindfulness meditation,” he says, “uses attention training exercises to strengthen the mind’s ability to come back to present reality when it gets sidetracked, promoting a state of calm attentiveness.”

This is enforced by research findings demonstrating that mindfulness meditation improves well-being, sleep, and empathy, as well as decreasing burnout, stress, anxiety, and depression. It is taught at more than 300 medical centers nationally because of its positive effects on mental and physical health, and chronic pain. 

Dr. Testerman is hosting a free weekly mindfulness training and practice group from 5:30 to 6:15 p.m. on Wednesdays in the Meridian Conference Room in the LLU East Campus administration building. Loma Linda University Health staff are welcome.

For more information, e-mail Dr. Testerman: jtesterman@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 24 Oct 2013 10:43:00 -0700
4264:12786 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week]]> Heather Reifsnyder Many of you proved to have long memories, correctly answering that the Behavioral Medicine Center is located at what was formerly was Charter Hospital. Our three fastest to reply correctly were Rochelle A. Roberts, Alisa Hebden, and Jessica Mulligan. Please send an e-mail to pr@llu.edu to receive your prize.

Today’s question will also test one’s memory.

The School of Allied Health Professions was started in 1966. Today it offers degrees ranging from the associate’s level to the doctoral level in allied health studies, cardiopulmonary sciences, clinical laboratory science, communication sciences & disorders, emergency medical care, health informatics & information management, health care administration, life support education, nutrition & dietetics, occupational therapy, physical therapy, orthotics & prosthetics, physician assistant sciences, and radiation technology. It also offers basic science courses.

With about 1,000 students, the School of Allied Health Professions is Loma Linda University’s biggest school, representing roughly one fourth of the student population.

But the school originally had a different name: the School of Health Related Professions. In what year did the name change? E-mail the answer to pr@llu.edu and see if you win.

]]>
Thu, 17 Oct 2013 12:53:22 -0700
4264:12783 <![CDATA[<i>Nursing News</i> blog launches a conversation throughout Loma Linda University Health]]> Nursing News is a new blog on VIP designed to be an ongoing conversation in which the comments, stories, and suggestions of nurses are valued and welcomed.]]> Nursing News is a new blog on VIP designed to be an ongoing conversation in which the comments, stories, and suggestions of nurses are valued and welcomed. Its purpose is to connect nursing staff throughout the different entities of Loma Linda University Health to build a sense of community and improve services.

“Nursing is at the core of our organization. We want all the nurses to know that we know this. It matters to us, and we want them to feel supported and engaged,” says Ruthita Fike, MA, CEO of LLU Medical Center.

The blog features evidence-based practice education, staff accomplishments, updates on hospital projects, opportunities to get involved, and stories from nurses. It is found on the VIP page at http://blogs.mc.llumc.edu/nursing-news/ or by typing “Nursing News” into the VIP page search box.

]]>
Thu, 17 Oct 2013 12:20:37 -0700
4264:12781 <![CDATA[A day of wellness at Drayson Center]]> Herbert Atienza On Wednesday, October 23, two free wellness events will be open to the public at the Drayson Center.

11th annual Senior Health & Fitness Fair
9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Participants of the 11th annual Senior Health & Fitness Fair at the Drayson Center will be able to take advantage of special membership rates, receive health information, take part in screenings for health and fitness, and receive goodie bags.

“We are excited to welcome the public, especially the seniors, to the Senior Health & Fitness Fair, which celebrates its 11th year,” says Romy Niblack, senior wellness program coordinator at Loma Linda University Health Drayson Center. 

Among the highlights of the fair are: health and wellness information; aerobics and other fitness demonstrations; health screenings, including blood pressure and body composition tests; health and wellness service booths; massages by certified massage therapists; tours of the Loma Linda University Health Drayson Center; goodie bags; and healthy refreshments.

During the hours of the fair only, participants may also take advantage of special membership rates to the Drayson Center, offered just once a year.

Information: (909) 558-8220

2nd annual Loma Linda Lifestyle Health Fair
10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Promoting healthy lifestyles and preventing chronic diseases are the goals of Loma Linda University Drayson Center Preventive Care Clinic in presenting the 2nd annual Loma Linda Lifestyle Health Fair.

Educational activities and no-cost wellness tests will be offered to participants, including blood glucose; respiratory capacity; hand grip; back and posture; Tanita body composition; health and age; stress; and other tests.

“We’re very excited to hold the 2nd annual Loma Linda Lifestyle Health Fair, because its focus is helping people to develop lifestyles that will help them prevent chronic illness, such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease,” says Hildemar Dos Santos, MD, DrPH, director of Loma Linda University Drayson Center Preventive Care Clinic.

The fair is sponsored by Loma Linda University School of Public Health and the Loma Linda University Drayson Center.

]]>
Thu, 17 Oct 2013 12:11:57 -0700
4264:12779 <![CDATA[Sunday's 'A Walk to Remember' honored more than 230 lost babies]]> During the 8th annual A Walk to Remember on October 13, some 1,600 people came together to remember babies lost during pregnancy or as infants. This year’s walk honored more than 230 babies.

The event is held each October by Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital in honor of National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, during which memorial walks are held across the nation. Families walk during the event in honor of babies who never grew up to take steps of their own.

Families expressed appreciation for the event, which included a remembrance ceremony, dove release, and walk. 

“It was our second time to participate, and the event this year was even more meaningful than last year’s. This is now a family tradition for us and we appreciate all your effort for it,” said once participant.

“It was a wonderful event!” said another woman. “My kids and I needed it so very much.”

]]>
Thu, 17 Oct 2013 12:04:24 -0700
4264:12777 <![CDATA[Facebook page for Loma Linda University Health hits milestone]]> The Facebook page for Loma Linda University Health reached a record 25,000 likes October 14 when Craig Connell of Pocatello, Idaho, became a fan. A former Loma Linda employee, Mr. Connell will receive a reusable LLUH bag, reusable water bottle, and Live It shirt.

Brian Weed, MA, social media coordinator, says, “It’s exciting to see the rapid growth of social media at Loma Linda. Thanks to all of our Facebook friends for helping reaching this marker!”

Check out the Loma Linda University Health Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/lomalindauniversity.

]]>
Thu, 17 Oct 2013 11:58:20 -0700
4264:12775 <![CDATA[Featured video - Seeds of Hope ]]> Advancement Films

"The Story I Never Told" - Seeds of Hope 2013 from Loma Linda University Health ]]> The Sixth Annual Seeds of Hope dinner raised more than $106,000 to support mental health services at Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center (BMC), and that number is still rising. Hosted by State of California Superior Court Judge Tara Reilly, the event was held on Tuesday, October 15, at the Mitten Building in Redlands. Three hundred people attended the dinner, where they heard personal stories from former patients about how their lives were saved at the BMC. (Watch their story in this video.) The purpose of the event is to educate the community on mental illness and addiction, as well as to raise support for programs and services available at the BMC.

]]> Thu, 17 Oct 2013 11:54:16 -0700
4264:12774 <![CDATA[What are your dreams for Loma Linda University Health?]]> A message from the senior vice president for strategic planning 

Our work is more than a job; it is a sacred calling. It starts with a mission-focused culture and a commitment to reflecting God’s character to our community through our teaching and healing ministry. Looking toward the future, a choice must be made. We can remain an organization of great potential, or, we can make a breakthrough, fulfilling our mission in remarkable ways. What we become depends on each one us. 

On October 31, 2013, leadership representing Loma Linda University Health will be gathering for two days to begin the spiritual discipline of strategic planning for the future. It is a process firmly grounded in our mission, and it will develop a vision and plan consistent with the calling and revelation God gives to us. 

You are invited to be a part of, and influence, the unfolding future of LLUH in two ways: 

1. Please click on and complete the following statement by October 28: My dream for the future of LLUH is …”

2. Pray in preparation for the October 31 gathering, and during it. We believe God will speak through our collective voice and faithfully guide us into our future.

We are grateful for the work each of you do and for your willingness to share your thoughts and dreams as we create together the future to which we have been called. 

Faithfully,
Richard Rawson
Senior vice president for strategic planning
Loma Linda University Health

 

]]>
Thu, 17 Oct 2013 11:49:59 -0700
4264:12772 <![CDATA[Ruthita Fike recognized for leadership during times of unprecedented changes in health care]]> Herbert Atienza and Heather Reifsnyder Becker's Hospital Review.]]> Loma Linda University Medical Center CEO Ruthita J. Fike, MA, has been recognized as one of this year’s “130 Women Hospital and Health System Leaders to Know” by Becker’s Hospital Review. Becker's is a monthly publication for top health care executives; it offers business news, legal updates, and analysis relating to hospitals and health systems.

The women on the list were selected for a proven ability to lead their respective organizations in the midst of a challenging environment for health care. According to Becker’s, they have demonstrated considerable skill and promise despite times of uncertainly and unprecedented change in the industry.

“Having the leader of Loma Linda University Medical Center be recognized as one of ‘130 Women Hospital and Health Leaders to Know’ is a point of pride for our institution,” says Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health.

“Ruthita truly exemplifies leadership, compassion, and professionalism in everything she does. In these times of challenges and uncertainty in the health care environment, we are blessed to have her lead the medical center to new heights,” he said.

Ms. Fike says, “I am deeply honored by this recognition, because I believe this is a testament to the commitment and teamwork of everyone at Loma Linda University Medical Center to provide world-class care for our patients.

She has served as CEO and administrator of Loma Linda University Medical Center and executive vice president for hospital affairs at Loma Linda University Health since 2004. Ms. Fike guides the long-term strategic vision and day-to-day operations of Loma Linda University Health’s six hospitals.

This is a second major award for Ms. Fike this year. In March, she received the Ludlam-Gamble Award from the National Health Foundation in association with the Hospital Association of Southern California.

She was also recognized last year by Becker’s Hospital Review as one of “100 Non-profit Hospital, Health System CEOs to Know.”

Ms. Fike previously served as executive vice president of operations and support services for Centura Health, Colorado’s largest health care system. She was named by the Denver Business Journal as the 2003 Outstanding Woman in Business, recognizing women’s excellence in business and commerce in the category of health care in the Denver metro area.

Since joining Loma Linda University Health, Ms. Fike has guided initiatives at Loma Linda University Medical Center including:

• overseeing planning, construction, and opening of Loma Linda University Medical Center–Murrieta;

• overseeing the acquisition of Loma Linda University Heart & Surgical Hospital;

• developing relationships and leading in the joint venture with Beaver Medical Group and Redlands Community Hospital to build Highland Springs Medical Plaza in Beaumont;

• leading a hospital delegation to the White House, upon invitation of President Obama, to share insights on improving health outcomes through faith-based and community partnerships; and

• championing efforts to improve patient care, leading to U.S. News & World Report recognizing Loma Linda University Medical Center as the No. 1 Hospital in the Inland Empire for four years in a row.

]]>
Thu, 17 Oct 2013 11:43:23 -0700
4264:12771 <![CDATA[Notes from the President]]> Richard Hart, MD, DrPH

Zip Code vs. Genetic Code

At the beginning of each fall quarter, our school family gathers in the Loma Linda University Church for our annual Convocation service. It is a time to reflect on the past, welcome our new students, and prepare for the future. Faculty members wear their academic regalia, dignifying the event and bringing out the diversity and strength of Loma Linda. We celebrate in song and liturgy our commitment to God and the miraculous history we have all inherited and share at this place.

In my Convocation remarks this year, I chose to focus on our plans for the new campus in San Bernardino. This new venture, for which we now own a 7¼-acre piece of land alongside the 215 freeway in the center of the city, will elevate health and educational opportunities for people living in this economically challenged city. While we are still working on the design and scope of the building, the enthusiasm in the community, and particularly in the public school system, is palpable. To recognize this growing relationship, I invited public school leaders to Convocation from the San Bernardino County school system and the City school system, as well as the principal from Indian Springs High School (ISHS), where we are focusing our initial collaboration efforts. Dale Marsden, the superintendent of the city school system, has led efforts to give his students job skills and is an articulate spokesman for their needs. Alan Kay is the ISHS principal, who brought six student leaders with him to Convocation.

These student leaders voted to dedicate their IHSH Annual to Loma Linda University this year in anticipation of the bright future they envision from this relationship. It was clear that the experience of watching our Convocation service, identifying with a church full of LLU students, and eating in the Faculty Dining Room afterwards will become a highlight of their year. According to Alan, they talked excitedly all the way home about how to share their experience with their school staff, their parent groups, and, especially, their fellow students.

I was surprised at how far back our relationship goes with the San Bernardino public schools. Dr. Julia White joined the Loma Linda faculty in 1905 and began the School of Nursing that November. In addition, she began giving lectures in neighboring homes about good nutrition and healthful living practices. By 1907, she had recruited Dr. Lillis Wood-Starr, who expanded the outreach program. Our records show that Dr. Wood-Starr was invited to lecture to the 2,500 students in the San Bernardino public school system in 1907, just two years after Loma Linda was founded! So we have a rich history we are building on.

My comments for Convocation focused on the difference between our Zip Code and our Genetic Code in influencing each person’s developmental trajectory. In the case of San Bernardino, where you are from—your Zip Code—can greatly limit your opportunities in life due to housing, social activities, schools, recreation, and relationships. Our goal must be to help these students realize the full potential of their Genetic Code, rather than be limited by their Zip Code. We have all watched individuals flourish when they get a chance to break free from their past and fully develop the intellectual gifts and energy God has given them.

Can Loma Linda effectively do this? Can a health-sciences university based on tough standards really reach out and help struggling high school students? Do we understand them enough? Will we be diverted from our mission, or is this our mission? I recently heard a talk from the nonprofit TED that said, “It is possible to love anyone, once you know their story.” I believe it is time we share our stories, to truly know the pain and heartache, the joys and triumphs, of those around us. It is time to call out the good in each other, to connect with the people of San Bernardino—truly our neighbors—in a way that develops the trust and confidence they need to succeed in the world.

My sense is that our campus family is ready for this challenge. Doug Havens and Marilyn Eggers are expanding our EXSEED program to help the health interest groups already forming in these high schools. Our faculty members are excited about this new frontier and are offering their assistance. Perhaps most important of all, our students get it—they want to use their time and energy to connect with their fellow students in San Bernardino. They will do this through mentoring, helping with schoolwork, teaching music, taking students on field trips, visiting in their homes, and becoming their friends. And be assured the blessings will be a two-way street, providing our students with both the treasure of friendship and the privilege of service.

Jackie Reyes came to our Convocation service this year. She grew up in east San Bernardino, near our SAC Health System Norton clinic, one of the poorest areas in the city. Jackie participated in our Community Kids Connection programs as a child, was mentored by our students, and found her goal in life. She is now a pre-med student on a full scholarship at Cal State San Bernardino. She is using her Genetic Code to the max. We believe we can repeat her story again and again.

]]>
Thu, 17 Oct 2013 11:35:52 -0700
4264:12654 <![CDATA[Community comes together for Believe Walk ]]> Nancy Yuen and Heather Reifsnyder On Sunday, October 6, downtown Redlands filled with thousands of people who had gathered to participate in the 6th Annual Believe Walk event. Noticeable in the crowd were numerous people wearing blue shirts that said “Fighting Cancer Together”—representatives of the LLU Health family.

Sponsored by Stater Bros. Charities and Inland Women Fighting Cancer, this year’s event raised $494,339 to help support cancer-fighting organizations in the region, such as Loma Linda University Cancer Center.

One of the walkers was Dawn Scott, a law student who received lifesaving treatment at Loma Linda University Cancer Center. Her husband, dog, and friends also walked.

“The Believe Walk was a great experience,” Ms. Scott says. “I was overwhelmed at how many people were there. My doctor, Maheswari Senthil, was one of the walkers.” 

Christina Franks, an LLUH employee, noted on Facebook, "This was my first year and it was unbelievable. A moving experience. I walked for my husband's aunt Connie. She is a survivor!"

In addition to the blue LLU Health shirts, Ms. Scott noticed other groups also wearing colorful shirts imprinted with statements about fighting cancer. She and her friends, for example, wore purple shirts with a statement she adopted during her cancer treatment: “Failure is not an option.”

“Most of the walkers had never met, but we are part of the same community, fighting cancer,” Ms. Scott says. “No one choses it, but we were all a part of it, supporting each other. That was empowering; it’s what I loved about the event.” 

“This small-town event has evolved into a community celebration,” says Jack H. Brown, chair and CEO of Stater Bros. Supermarkets. “Everyone is affected by cancer at some point in their lives, and it’s amazing to see how our community, the Inland Empire, has stepped up to the plate to do something about it.” 

“The level of community support for the Believe Walk has been amazing,” says Nancy Varner, co-founder of the Inland Women Fighting Cancer Committee. “It’s exciting to see how all aspects of the community have come together for one cause, to fight cancer.”

At the end of the walk, participants celebrated at the Believe Bash located at the Redlands Bowl. Some 50 vendors, including the Loma Linda University Cancer Center, provided food and free items for the participants.

Since the Believe Walk began it 2008, it has resulted in more than $1.7 million donated to local cancer-fighting organizations. This year the Loma Linda University Cancer Center was able to construct a patient resource center in the new Loma Linda University Women’s Cancer and Surgical Oncology Center from funds raised by Stater Bros. Charities and Inland Women Fighting Cancer. The patient resource center offers additional support services to patients who may not be covered by medical insurance.

]]>
Thu, 10 Oct 2013 12:07:35 -0700
4264:12652 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week]]> Heather Reifsnyder Was last week’s question too easy? Our winners are Carlene Drake, David Conkerite, and Jason Pellegrin, who all correctly answered that nurses were Loma Linda University’s first graduates. E-mail pr@llu.edu to claim your prize.

Today’s question is a bit more challenging. How well do you know the Behavioral Medicine Center?

The opening of the LLU Behavioral Medicine Center in 1991 was the culmination of a long dream for a free-standing mental health facility at LLU Health. The Behavioral Medicine Center offers patients a rarity in the mental health field—the chance to be treated at a specialized academic facility rooted in Christianity. In its 22 years, the Behavioral Medicine Center has helped thousands of inpatients as well as outpatients; it offers programs for youths, adults, and seniors in areas including addictions, eating disorders, self-harm, depression, and anxiety.

The history of mental health services at LLU Health began when the department of psychiatry opened in 1962, followed in the year 1967 by an 18-bed psychiatric unit at LLU Medical Center.

By 1984, discussions began on creating a free-standing mental health facility. The option to purchase and convert a nearby skilled nursing facility to serve this purpose was explored in 1988. However, an even better option opened up—the chance to buy the 89-bed psychiatric facility called ___________ in Redlands. The purchase took place in 1990.

Know the missing name? E-mail it to pr@llu.edu. Be speedy; the first three people to answer correctly will get a gift.

]]>
Thu, 10 Oct 2013 12:02:56 -0700
4264:12648 <![CDATA[Are you aware of spamtrap?]]> Heather Reifsnyder Users of llu.edu e-mail addresses may find it helpful to visit spamtrap.llu.edu periodically to ensure they are receiving all desired messages.

“A vast majority of e-mail is spam,” says Rick Duvall, information security architect, LLU Medical Center. “This includes mass-marketing messages, forwards, and malware. Malware programs attempt to harm people’s computers, steal data, or swindle passwords and personal information.”

LLU Health blocks most such e-mails from reaching people’s llu.edu inboxes in order to avoid straining storage capacity and overwhelming users. However, it is possible that the occasional wanted e-mail may be blocked.

LLU Health e-mail users can visit spamtrap.llu.edu to see blocked mail and control what messages reach their inboxes. One can accept or reject blocked mail; whitelist or blacklist senders, domains, and networks; and choose the aggressiveness of spam filtering.

For most people, the default settings should work fairly well, according to Larry Bishop, director of university network. Completely disabling spam filtering is not recommended.

“Minimize your exception rules,” Mr. Bishop recommends. “They can become confusing and result in either passing too much spam to your mailbox or accidentally blocking more legitimate e-mail.”

That may be dangerous because many spam messages can be harmful.

“A user should never trust an e-mail requesting unexpected actions or information, even if it appears to be from a known contact,” Mr. Duvall says, noting that people’s e-mail addresses can be hijacked to send spam.

Mr. Bishop offers further recommendations for e-mail safety:

• Verify links in suspicious emails; it is not uncommon that clicking on them will lead you to a different website than the one shown. To be safe, type the link yourself.

• LLU Health will never send e-mails asking individuals to validate their username and password. All such requests should be ignored.

• Do not open any attachments from unknown e-mail sources.
• If unsure of any e-mail, call the helpdesk for guidance.

Medical Center employees: Ext. 48889
University employees: Ext. 48611 or lluhelpdesk@llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 10 Oct 2013 11:35:20 -0700
4264:12647 <![CDATA[Today only: Apple sale at Campus Store]]> Nancy Blaire Today, October 10, the Loma Linda University Campus Computer Store is offering discounts on Apple MacBooks and iPads. Featured sales include the MacBook Pro 13-inch laptop, available for $899 (regular education price $999), and the iPad with Retina display 128 GB Wi-Fi, available for $749 (regular education price $799).* MacBook Air and other iPad models are also on sale. The store hours are 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Interested in learning more about how Apple computers fit into the LLU Health enterprise? Join the Campus Store for “Apple and LLU Health—an IT overview” on Friday, November 8. Attend a session of your choosing, the first starting at 10:00 am, or the second session beginning at 12:00 p.m.

Apple representatives and technology specialists will present the newest Apple products, discuss Apple information technology topics, and answer questions. A light lunch and refreshments will be served at both sessions. Contact the Campus Store to reserve a spot.

As an authorized Apple retailer, the Campus Computer Store offers basic technical support and assistance in purchasing or operating Apple devices. For more information or to learn more about pricing on other one-day offers, call Vincent Garcia, Campus Store computer manager, at (909) 558-4129 or on campus at ext. 44129.

Also find technology accessories, books, gifts, and Loma Linda University apparel at the Campus Store, located in the Campus Plaza adjacent to the Loma Linda Market.

To learn more about services provided by the Campus Store, call (909) 558-4567 or visit www.llu.bncollege.com.

*For individual purchase only, while supplies last.

]]>
Thu, 10 Oct 2013 11:30:25 -0700
4264:12644 <![CDATA[Featured video - Healing Hands]]> Advancement Films ]]> The Healing Hands program at Loma Linda University Health is giving patients an opportunity to give back. Listen as Roger Hadley, MD, chief of staff at LLU Medical Center and founding medical director of Healing Hands, explains the grateful patient program and how to get involved. 

]]>
Thu, 10 Oct 2013 11:23:44 -0700
4264:12643 <![CDATA[LLU Health research: vegetarians tend to be slimmer]]> Herbert Atienza In a country struggling with high obesity rates, news about being slimmer catches attention.

The School of Public Health’s Adventist Health Study 2 has announced new findings demonstrating that, despite similar caloric intake, vegetarians tend to have lower body mass index (BMI) than non-vegetarians, with vegans being the most slender of all.

The research will be published in the December edition of the “Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.” The findings were picked up by 110 media outlets including The Huffington Post: http://huff.to/1e11MXB

In strict vegetarians, low dietary intakes of vitamin B-12 and D, calcium, and n-3 fatty acids, in addition to iron and zinc, have often historically been of concern. However, in the present study, mean intakes of these nutrients were above minimum requirements in strict vegetarians.

A cross-sectional study of the subjects from the Adventist Health Study 2, possibly the largest study involving vegetarians, compared the subjects’ five dietary patterns: non-vegetarians (meat eaters), semi-vegetarians (occasional meat eaters), pesco-vegetarians (people who consume fish), lacto-ovo vegetarians (people who consume dairy products), and vegans (strict vegetarians).

The results show the average BMI was highest in non-vegetarians and lowest in strict vegetarians, with higher BMI levels for those who consume more animal-derived foods. Non-vegetarians had the most number of people who are classified as obese, with 33.3 percent having BMIs of more than 30; semi-vegetarians, 24.2 percent; pesco-vegetarians, 17.9 percent; lacto-ovo vegetarians, 16.7 percent; and strict vegetarians, 9.4 percent.

The subjects had similar energy intake of close to 2,000 calories per day, except for semi-vegetarians, who had an intake of 1,707 kcal per day. The results were adjusted for age, race, sex, and physical activity.

The study tried to determine variations in nutrient intakes between vegetarian and non-vegetarian dietary patterns, in hopes of determining if those differences can contribute to the prevention or development of disease.

The findings showed that nutrient intakes varied significantly between dietary patterns. Non-vegetarians have the lowest intake of plant proteins, fiber, beta carotene, and magnesium, compared with those following vegetarian dietary patterns; and the highest intakes of fatty acids associated with coronary heart disease.

“There was a clear association between higher proportions of obesity, higher BMI averages, and dietary patterns characterized by progressively higher intakes of meat and dairy products,” said the study’s first author, Nico Rizzo, PhD, assistant professor at the department of nutrition at Loma Linda University School of Public Health.

“These marked differences in BMI are of particular interest given that total energy intakes were similar between dietary patterns, and mean macronutrient composition and micronutrient intakes were markedly different between the dietary patterns,” he says.

He said a thorough description of nutrient profiles and the findings will serve as a point of reference for future studies that will look at possible associations between dietary patterns and health outcomes.

]]>
Thu, 10 Oct 2013 11:21:46 -0700
4264:12513 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week]]> Thanks to everyone who offered their guesstimation last week of how many people use the Drayson Center on an average day. The answer is about 1,800 people.

The winners of the challenge are Brandon Jackson, Debbie Damazo, and James Lynch. E-mail pr@llu.edu to claim your gift.

This week’s question tests your knowledge of the history of academics at Loma Linda University.

Did you know that our first graduates were not physicians? The first commencement ceremony was held July 10, 1907. What had those students studied?

The first three people to e-mail the correct discipline to pr@llu.edu will be our winners. 

]]>
Thu, 03 Oct 2013 12:48:31 -0700
4264:12500 <![CDATA[Photos - Murrieta family health fair]]> Heather Reifsnyder LLU Medical Center-Murrieta hosted more than 2,000 guests at its first annual family health fair September 29.

The event featured a variety of health screenings, a petting zoo, rock climbing wall, organic farmers market, fresh local food vendors, and other activities. LLU Health employees and volunteers greeted guests and answered questions about services available; they also provided gifts and educational materials to help families navigate their health care and enhance wellness. 

“We were excited to host our inaugural family health fair because it gave us an opportunity to enjoy meeting people, savor healthy food, and engage in physical activities, all while learning more about how we can improve our health,” says Richard Rawson, MBA, CEO of Loma Linda University Medical Center-Murrieta.

Helping provide information and benefits for fairgoers were people from LLU School of Public Health, LLUMC laboratory, LLU International Heart Institute, LLUMC plastic surgery, LLU School of Dentistry, LLU Children’s Hospital Big Hearts for Little Hearts Guild, and LLU Health ear, nose, and throat team.

“We feel that our collaboration with these groups from the main campus really helped our health fair to be a great success, and we appreciate their participation and support,” says Kathryn Stiles, executive director of marketing and communications, LLUMC-Murrieta.

]]>
Thu, 03 Oct 2013 12:31:08 -0700
4264:12498 <![CDATA[University convocation chapel renews commitment to service]]> Heather Reifsnyder The annual convocation chapel was held October 2 at Loma Linda University Church, calling students, faculty and staff to one place to dedicate the new school year together.

The service demonstrates the university’s commitment to mission-focused learning and the integration of faith and science. It allows students to witness representatives of the faculty in full regalia dedicate themselves to educating the study body.

The service included an address by Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president, titled “Zip Code and Genetic Code,” as well as music, scripture, statement of commitment, and prayer.

The following was the statement of commitment:

Our Prayer

Holy Father, You are our Creator, and we accept Your invitation to be servants and stewards on this earth. Give us the courage, conviction, and compassion for effective service. We recognize and accept our responsibilities, as Your children, to accept all as fellow travelers and seekers of peace and truth. We claim Your promises of protection, blessings, and fulfillment as we travel this path of service with you.

Our Faculty and Staff

This institution was founded to care for each individual, near and far, each of whom we identify as a child of God. We pledge to nurture their intellectual curiosity. We will facilitate their development into independent learners. We commit to cultivate and equip them with a desire for service toward their local and global community. We advance knowledge and provide continuing education for our alumni and professional peers. We encourage a personal Christian faith that permeates the lives of those we educate. –Beverly Buckles, DSW, dean, School of Behavioral Health

Our Students

We, the students, have come to prepare for our future. We bring inquisitive minds to grow in knowledge and wisdom. We bring our hearts to beat with compassion, integrity, justice, purity, self-control, and the humility of Jesus Christ. We have come to learn how to make people whole. We are here to become whole ourselves.  –Ray Rajagukguk

The Blessing

Over one hundred years ago, a few individuals believed that God could do the unbelievable. They committed their lives and talents to this institution. And the Lord rewarded their faith. Today, we have made honorable commitments to ourselves, to one another and to God. Now receive the blessing of God as you live out your commitment in this place. May you be blessed with vigor and life abundant. May you be whole in body and have peace with God as you are made whole by His Spirit. –Henry Lamberton, PsyD, associate dean for student affairs, LLU School of Medicine.

]]>
Thu, 03 Oct 2013 12:28:03 -0700
4264:12493 <![CDATA[Family health fair to include 5K, health screenings, and fun]]> Looking for something fun to do with the whole family? Check out Loma Linda University Health's family health fair Sunday, October 27, at the Drayson Center from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.The fair will offer free flu shots and health screenings, food, games, and health exhibits. There will also be a chance to win a Disneyland family package for four with a two-night hotel stay.

Prior to the fair, at 8:00 a.m., there will be a free family 5K at that is designed for everyone from casual walkers to elite runners. Pre-register online by 3:00 p.m. on October 24 at http://www.FHF5K.com/runner. Or register at the day of the event starting at 7:00 a.m. at the Drayson Center soccer field.

For more information, call 1-877-LLUMC-4U.

The Drayson Center is located at 25040 Stewart Street, Loma Linda, 92354.

 

]]>
Thu, 03 Oct 2013 12:21:10 -0700
4264:12491 <![CDATA[Rideshare week to feature prizes]]> Heather Reifsnyder Rideshare week is October 7 through 11. Its purpose is to encourage workers in the Inland Empire to find green ways to make the commute to work.

LLU Health employees who pledge to carpool, walk, bike, or ride the bus at least one day next week will be entered in a drawing to win prizes including hotel stays, gift cards, furniture, and tickets.

Make your pledge online at www.ie511.org/rideshare-week.aspx. Or download the form below the story and return it to the LLU Health rideshare department via fax at extension 53030 or intercampus mail.

The form must be returned by October 18.

Rideshare week is a program of Riverside County Transportation Commission and the San Bernardino Associated Governments.

LLU Health offers year-round rideshare incentives to full-time benefited employees. Employees who reside in the same household and carpool are eligible for preferred parking if available.

Incentives for full-time benefited employees:

• Carpooling: Employees who carpool at least three times per week each month will each receive vouchers for 10 gallons of gas per month starting after three months. During the first three months, each employee is eligible for $2 per day to use at Starter Bros.

• Biking: Employees who bike to work at least three days per week (or two for employees who work three 12-hour shifts) will receive a $60 tax-free bonus each quarter.

• Riding the bus: Employees who ride the bus can receive a $25 subsidy per month toward their fare.

• Walking (university only): Employees who walk will receive a $60 tax-free bonus each quarter.

To find carpooling partners, register at www.ridematch.info for a list of employees who reside nearby.

For more information, call Patty Ibarra at extension 53033.

]]>
Thu, 03 Oct 2013 12:16:46 -0700
4264:12489 <![CDATA[Featured video - A richer life after prostate cancer treatment]]> Advancement Films ]]> Alan Holt's urologist recommended that he come to Loma Linda University Health for proton treatment. "You almost forget you have cancer here," Mr. Holt says. He explains his life-changing experience at Loma Linda and how it brought him closer to his wife.

]]>
Thu, 03 Oct 2013 12:13:43 -0700
4264:12475 <![CDATA[Institution-wide safety reports due this month]]> In assisting departments to be better prepared for regulatory agency inspections, the office of environmental health & safety would like to remind department heads/managers that they are responsible for identifying safety issues and documenting corrections for their areas.

Fourth-quarter reports must be filled out and filed within each department by October 21 to prepare for coming inspections.

Hospital and clinical department heads should fill out the environment of care self-tour form, while heads of departments in the university and LLU Shared Services need to complete a safety inspection form. Both documents may be downloaded below the story.

These audit forms give the departments the opportunity to locate and actively correct any issues to prepare for regulatory agency inspections and university fire inspections. The completed forms are for each department’s records and are not to be sent to the office of environmental health & safety.

For questions about safety inspection forms, call Jhobanny “Gio” Candray at extension 58154, and for questions about the environment of care self-audit form, call Chuck Saenz at extension 58164.

For requesting self-tour form corrections and other issues, use the following contact information or clickable links:

•  General EOC, emergency management, HazMat, and fire safety concerns: EH&S complaint form

•  Utilities/repair concerns: MC engineering work order request or campus engineering repair request

• Housekeeping concerns: E-mail environmentalservices@llu.edu.

•  Security concerns: E-mail SecurityMC@llu.edu or dial extension 44320.

• Medical equipment concerns: Clinical engineering medical equipment service request form

]]>
Thu, 03 Oct 2013 06:49:00 -0700
4264:12416 <![CDATA[For your health: flu shots available to LLU Health students and employees]]> Contributed report Do you know the differences between the cold and the flu? Flu symptoms may include fever, headache, general aches and pains, fatigue, and weakness that can last up to three weeks. Other symptoms are sneezing and sore throat, chest discomfort and cough.

Colds differ from the flu in that fever and headache are rare, while extreme exhaustion never occurs. Aches and pains are occasional while a stuffy nose, sneezing and hacking cough, sore throat, and chest discomfort are common cold symptoms.

Flu can develop into a serious disease that may lead to hospitalization and even death. The flu virus can be spread beginning one day before symptoms appear and for five to seven days after becoming sick. Some people with the virus have no symptoms but can spread the flu to others.

According to Safety Matters Newsletter, the annual flu vaccination is the primary means of preventing influenza and its complications. The Centers for Disease Control estimates that only 40 percent of health care workers in the U.S. are vaccinated against influenza annually. The issue is so critical that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ “Action Plan to Prevent Healthcare Associated Infections” has established that 90 percent of health care workers receive the flu vaccine annually by 2020. In the state of California, there is a law requiring 100 percent of health care workers to either receive the flu vaccination or sign a declination.

While the timing of flu outbreaks is unpredictable, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, seasonal flu activity can begin in October and continue as late as May.

Flu shots are being offered in many of the University’s schools for their students, faculty, and staff. Additional 2013-2014 seasonal flu shot availability includes:

Location: employee health services

LLUMC (UH, CH, ECH, HSH), LLUHS, LLUBMC, volunteers, and medical staff members

            Thursday, September 26, 2013, 7:00 to 11:00 a.m.

            Thursday, October 3, 2013, 1:00 to 5:00 p.m.

  • Day- and night-shift employees: mobile flu vaccine opportunities will be brought to the nursing units.
  • Those who receive their annual health screen/PPD outside of employee health services by our employee health nurse will have the opportunity to receive flu vaccine in the same manner.
  • If you have received your flu vaccine elsewhere, please complete the “received elsewhere” form found on the employee health services website.

Location: Center for Health Promotion

Flu shots are offered to students, staff, employees, and the public. LLU Health students, staff, and employees should bring their risk management card (CHP will bill risk management; no co-pay or fee will be charged).

According to Tami Jacques, RN, clinic manager, LLU students may request their flu shot any time the clinic is open (8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. Monday to Thursday, and 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Friday). Most schools are also scheduling special clinics for their students.

All others should request their flu shot during International Travel Clinic hours (Wednesdays, 1:30 to 4:00 p.m.).

The Center for Health Promotion offers three types of flu shots: intramuscular, $22; intradermal, $35; and high-dose $45. According to Mrs. Jacques, the high-dose flu shot is recommended for seniors age 65 and better.

Center for Health Promotion is located on campus in Evans Hall, Suite 111 (24785 Stewart Street). For more information, call CHP at (909) 558-4594.

LLU Health Family Health Fair

In addition, free flu shots are being offered at the LLU Health family health fair on Sunday, October 27, 2013, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. For more information about the family health fair, call 1-877-llumc-4u.

]]>
Thu, 26 Sep 2013 00:00:00 -0700
4264:12414 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week]]> Heather Reifsnyder To those of you who answered that Mono County has an area of 1,209 square miles, Google owes you an apology. Let’s all take a moment to mourn that the Internet can misinform us.

The clue was: LLU Medical Center and Children’s Hospital offer the only Level 1 trauma center in a four-county area of 40,000 square miles—roughly 25 percent of California’s land mass. The smallest of these four counties is _______ and is approximately _________ square miles in area.

While Mono County is indeed correct, its square mileage is closer to 3,000, with the exact number varying from source to source. The county website claims 3,030 square miles; the U.S. Census Bureau states it to be 3,049; the Inyo and Mono Counties Agriculture Department says 3,044; and the California State Association of Counties puts it at 3,103. Answers anywhere in this range were accepted.

The first three people to answer correctly were Jamie L. Evans, Katya Campos, and Steven Brooks. E-mail pr@llu.edu to claim your gift.

New clue

The LLU Health recreation facility, Drayson Center, opened in 1995.

Named after donors Grace and Ronald Drayson, the center offers exercise classes, intramural team sports, weight room, aerobics equipment, swimming pools, basketball courts, racquetball courts, 9-acre playing field, and both indoor and outdoor tracks. And don’t forget the senior wellness program, massage therapists, Drayson Center Preventive Care Clinic, and nutritional education from nutrition students.

Membership is open to students, LLU Health employees and their families, and the community.

Here is this week’s puzzle. Please fill in the blank. On an average day, __________ people use the Drayson Center.

You’ll have to rely on your powers of guesstimation. In other words, don’t flood the Drayson Center with phone calls. The first three people to guess the right answer, plus or minus 50, will receive a small gift. E-mail your answer to pr@llu.edu.

Good luck!

]]>
Thu, 26 Sep 2013 12:25:13 -0700
4264:12413 <![CDATA[Featured video - Living It after cancer]]> Advancement Films ]]> When diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, Dawn didn't lose sight of her goal to become a lawyer. She received advanced HIPEC cancer treatment at Loma Linda University Health - just one of two medical centers on the west coast offering this specialized treatment. Watch her inspiring story of how her positive outlook and innovative care is helping her live her dream today.

]]>
Thu, 26 Sep 2013 12:23:09 -0700
4264:12411 <![CDATA[Stewart Street pedestrian bridge takes shape]]> Heather Reifsnyder Workers poured concrete last week for the pedestrian overpass that will span Stewart Street. How much concrete? Two hundred and twenty cubic yards—or 891,000 pounds. If this were laid 0.5” thick by 0.5” wide, it would stretch roughly to Hollywood City Hall.

The bridge will provide a safe crossing over Stewart Street for pedestrians traveling between the Centennial Complex and the main campus. The project entails lowering Stewart Street to about 15 feet below ground level.

Construction is scheduled for completion in summer 2014.

The Centennial Pathway will be lengthened to cross over the bridge. Its colored brick pavers commemorate significant dates in the institution’s history. Originally planned to stop at 100 years (2005), the pathway will now extend south over Stewart Street to the year 2056.

]]>
Thu, 26 Sep 2013 12:19:51 -0700
4264:12401 <![CDATA[Fall quarter kicks off with orientations and festivities]]> Even if it feels like summer, autumn is here. Fall equinox was Sunday, September 22, and the Loma Linda University fall academic quarter started Monday. Enrollment statistics are not yet available, but the year ahead promises to be a busy one in each of our eight schools. Here are a few snapshots of first-week activities.

]]>
Thu, 26 Sep 2013 12:11:57 -0700
4264:12399 <![CDATA[9-year-old patient appeals to radiothon listeners during 1st public outing in 10 months]]> Briana Pastorino The 12th annual Stater Bros. Charities K-Froggers for Kids Radiothon on September 11 and 12 was, to most, an opportunity to raise funds for Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital.

But for 9-year-old Aubrey Gaines it was a chance to get out of the house and show everyone how important the fundraiser was to her and her friends on unit 4800—the pediatric hematology/oncology unit. This was Aubrey’s first time out in an open, public place since her diagnosis.

Aubrey was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia—cancer of the white blood cells—on December 6, 2012, and has been in and out of the hospital ever since. She is currently on her fifth round of chemotherapy treatment.

“Needless to say she was thrilled to get out of the house,” said Aubrey’s mom, Krystle Garrison. 

Ms. Garrison admits much of the past 10 months has been scarier for her than for her daughter, but she knows they “couldn’t be in a better place. Since day one the doctors and nurses at Loma Linda have been wonderful,” she says. “They always explained everything.”

Aubrey and her mom drove out from their Beaumont home to visit the K-FROG team and radiothon volunteers during the event at Bass Pro Shops in Rancho Cucamonga on September 11. Aubrey was invited to go on the air with radio personality Doug E. Frog to encourage listeners to call in and donate to the hospital.

“It’s important for our listeners to hear the patients who will benefit from the radiothon,” said Harvey Wells, senior vice president and market manager at KFROG. “Aubrey was such a sweetheart, and she even had a great radio voice.”

The Stater Bros. Charities K-Froggers for Kids Radiothon raised $296,058, which will go to support the pediatric hematology/oncology unit as well as other programs at LLU Children’s Hospital.

“Thank you to K-FROG for hosting this incredible event, and to Stater Bros. Charities for its continued support,” says Children’s Hospital administrator Zareh Sarrafian, MBA. “This is all for our patients—the true heroes. To all of those who supported the radiothon, you are making a difference in the lives of children battling cancer at Loma Linda University Children's Hospital.”

]]>
Thu, 26 Sep 2013 12:06:57 -0700
4264:12397 <![CDATA[LLU researchers publish potential new remedy for neuropathic pain]]> Herbert Atienza Neuroscience shows that chronic pain following spinal cord injury may be reduced by a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids.]]> Loma Linda University researchers will publish new findings in the journal Neuroscience. The NIH-funded study showed that chronic pain following spinal cord injury may be reduced by consuming a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids.

One hundred and forty-one media outlets have reported the findings. The study can be viewed online at http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0306452213007835.

The study’s authors are Johnny D. Figueroa, PhD, postdoctoral research specialist, Center For Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine and the department of anatomy and human pathology; Kathia Cordero, MD/PhD student, School of Medicine; Miguel Serrano-Illan, PhD student, School of Medicine; Audra Almeyda, MD student, School of Medicine; Keisha Baldeosingh, MD, Center For Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine; Frankis G. Almaguel, MD/PhD, Center For Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine and radiology resident; and Marino De Leon, PhD, professor of physiology, department of basic sciences, and director of the Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine, where the research was conducted.

 “Chronic neuropathic pain is a serious condition affecting millions of people with type 2 diabetes and spinal cord injury. A key finding of this research is the identification of new promising targets for the development of new therapies,” says Dr. De Leon, senior author and head of the study.

The study found that the pain threshold of rats with spinal cord injury increased as a result of a diet containing omega-3 fatty acids.

“One of the main complaints of patients after a spinal cord injury is pain,” says Dr. Figueroa, the study’s first author.

“We are looking at strategies to reduce the pain, and we are finding that diet can play an important role in pain management,” he adds.

The study had rats with spinal cord injury fed with control chow and chow enriched with omega-3 fatty acids for a total of 16 weeks. The pain tests conducted on the animals showed that the group consuming the omega-3 fatty acids enriched diet exhibited significantly less pain.

Dr. De Leon says that “while clinical studies are needed to establish a functional human equivalent for a diet rich in omega-3 acids, there are plenty of benefits in implementing a diet rich in omega-3 because of its anti-inflammatory and protective properties.” He said people can experience these benefits by consuming two servings of fish, preferably salmon, per week; walnuts and flaxseed oil; or, if necessary, through over-the-counter supplements.

]]>
Thu, 26 Sep 2013 11:56:39 -0700
4264:12395 <![CDATA['Live It' ads debut across nation]]> Heather Valentine The next phase of the national branding campaign for Loma Linda University Health has begun with the launch of the "Live It" advertisements designed to raise awareness of LLUH and position the institution as the leader in health and wellness. This follows the campaign’s first phase, which announced the new consolidated name of Loma Linda University Health.

“Live It” lets people know that the LLU Health commitment to health and wellness extends beyond our jobs. It is more than how we teach, practice medicine, or conduct research—it is how we live. Everything we do is based around changing lives for the better and empowering our community to "Live It" along with us. 

This message will be told through stories of patients, employees, students, volunteers, and others who exemplify the LLUH commitment to health and well-being. Advertisements in print, television, and radio, along with billboards, will share these stories.

The campaign is currently running in the Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego areas consistently; it is also rotating through national markets across the country. In October, “Live It” will be featured in Dallas; Orlando, Florida; Denver; Chicago; San Francisco; Seattle; Phoenix; Portland, Oregon; Nashville, Tennessee; Boston, and Dayton, Ohio.

]]>
Thu, 26 Sep 2013 11:51:01 -0700
4264:12320 <![CDATA[GIS for Healthy Communities workshop]]> The Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for Healthy Communities workshop will expose participants to the capabilities of GIS through an active, step-by-step, instructive format guided by experienced GIS professionals. It takes place at Loma Linda University October 24 and 25 from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. each day.

No prior knowledge of GIS is needed. Workshop participants will learn how to use GIS to:

  • identify disease and health resources in their communities and address existing community issues,
  • analyze and visually report on disease surveillance data,
  • create professionally aesthetic maps and presentations, and more.

“We invite you to attend this workshop and expand your technical expertise to address your community's health needs,” says Ed Santos, instructor, health geoinformatics section, LLU School of Public Health.

The workshop will be beneficial for government agencies, policymakers, civic organizations, and healthy community organizations. Participants may include:

  • city planners
  • environmental health professionals
  • city, county, and state officials
  • public health workers
  • community health professionals
  • social workers, and
  • students.

The cost is $250, which includes continuing professional education credit, training materials, and certificate of completion.

For more information or to register, visit www.llu.edu/public-health/hcbd/workshop. Please register by October 21.

]]>
Thu, 19 Sep 2013 12:01:15 -0700
4264:12318 <![CDATA[How to share your news]]> Heather Reifsnyder Every day remarkable things are happening across Loma Linda University Health, and these stories should be shared. LLU Health administrators want all staff, students, and faculty to be as informed as possible for the enrichment of their careers and education, and to help them continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ.

At the same time, administrators desire to keep the number of informational e-mails people receive to a minimum. To prevent e-mail overload, three vehicles have been created to share news and stories that people need to know.

On Campus shares stories relevant to the university community, focusing on academics, events, research, and campus life. Found at oncampus.llu.edu, this page is a significant source for being informed about what’s important at Loma Linda University.

The VIP homepage is your news source for stories related to clinical care. Articles address safety, training, policy updates, events, and other need-to-know employee information. The news is found at vip.mc.llumc.edu.

A third source for campus news is LLUSS Connect. This news page is run by Loma Linda University Shared Services, which is the corporate entity that provides support for all other entities of LLU Health. Departments such as risk management, payroll, landscape, public relations, and others fall under Shared Services.

LLUSS Connect features news relevant to services offered by these enterprise-wide shared departments. It is also a source of tips for better health and whole living, stories about living LLU Health’s values, and articles encouraging self-development. It is found myllu.llu.edu/llussconnect.

All articles for VIP, On Campus, and LLUSS Connect must be approved by the appropriate dean or vice president (or their administrative assistants), who will then forward the items to these publications. Inquiries about VIP news can be sent to mcwebmaster@llu.edu. The contact for On Campus is oncampus@llu.edu. Request more information about how to submit stories to LLUSS Connect by e-mailing ussconnect@llu.edu.

News of the Week is a weekly LLU Health e-mail that compiles news from these three websites. It is designed to be the single e-mail communication of stories that have system-wide relevance and/or significant news value. Direct submissions to News of the Week are not accepted; rather, stories should be submitted via the above process to On Campus, LLUSS Connect, and VIP.

Thank you for reading and staying informed about making Loma Linda University Health a place that “continues the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ 'to make man whole.'” 

]]>
Thu, 19 Sep 2013 11:54:35 -0700
4264:12316 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week]]> Heather Reifsnyder Heather Hebron-Roybal. Katrina Freeland. Candice Gomez. Come on down! You are the winners of last week’s trivia challenge. To claim your prize, send an e-mail to pr@llu.edu.

The answer was:

The early dreamers of Loma Linda University Health purchased the property for $40,000 (down from an original asking price of $110,000) with a $1,000 down payment personally secured by Adventist minister John Burden. When the date of the next scheduled payment of $5,000 arrived, not even a single dollar was in possession to meet it. Church leaders held an emergency meeting, and before long there wasn’t a dry eye in the room; a check for that exact amount arrived in the morning’s mail from an unknown donor in New Jersey. 

Today’s question may appeal to the amateur geographer in you.

LLU Medical Center and Children’s Hospital offer the only Level 1 trauma center in a four-county area of 40,000 square miles—roughly 25 percent of California’s land mass. The smallest of these four counties is ________ and is approximately _________ square miles in area.

The first three people to send the correct answer to pr@llu.edu will win something fairly neat.

]]>
Thu, 19 Sep 2013 11:49:33 -0700
4264:12314 <![CDATA[Who are Seventh-day Adventists?]]> Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Health is blessed by employees from many faith traditions who help live out its mission.

Whether a longtime staff member, new employee, or student, you may not be acquainted with the basic beliefs of Seventh-day Adventists. Perhaps you have heard mention of the special gift of Sabbath or the focus on a healthy lifestyle, but would like to better understand these beliefs.

Those who would like to learn more about Seventh-day Adventists are invited to a free dinner where they will hear an overview of Adventist beliefs. Staff, their families, and students are invited.

“Several years ago, an employee told me she had worked here for 12 years and knew very little about Adventists,” says Kathy McMillan, director of employee spiritual care. “She started asking me questions, and I realized there were likely many other employees who have questions as well.”

There are two dates to choose from. There will be ample time for questions following brief presentations.

Wednesday, October 9, 2013

5:15 – 7:30 p.m.
OR 

Monday, October 14
5:15 – 7:30 p.m.

Dinner will be served.

Wong Kerlee International Conference Center
Rock Room

Free registration is limited to the first 30 respondents for each date. To sign up, please call employee spiritual care at extension 87261.

]]>
Thu, 19 Sep 2013 11:46:10 -0700
4264:12312 <![CDATA[Featured video - PossAbilities Triathlon 2013 ]]> Advancement Films ]]> About 1,000 physically challenged and able-bodied athletes competed in the 11th Annual PossAbilities Triathlon. In this story, meet two athletes - Andre, who is training to qualify for the 2016 Paralympics, and 4-year-old JJ, who participated in his very first triathlon.

]]>
Thu, 19 Sep 2013 11:41:35 -0700
4264:12229 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week]]> Heather Reifsnyder A big thank you to all who participated in last Thursday’s launch of our weekly trivia challenge. The correct family name for the biting flies named after LLU faculty is, as many of you guessed, Ceratopogonidae.

The first three people to correctly answer this question were Brijie Elhazin, Nancy Blaire, and Michael Almanzor. The winners should send an e-mail to pr@llu.edu to claim their prize.

Today’s question takes us back to the absolute beginning of Loma Linda University Health. If you can fill in the blank, e-mail your answer to pr@llu.edu. The first three to correctly answer the question will be rewarded with a small but totally neat prize.

The early dreamers of Loma Linda University Health purchased the property for $40,000 (down from an original asking price of $110,000) with a $1,000 down payment personally secured by Adventist minister John Burden. When the date of the next scheduled payment of $_______ arrived, not even a single dollar was in possession to meet it. Church leaders held an emergency meeting, and before long there wasn’t a dry eye in the room; a check for that exact amount arrived in the morning’s mail from an unknown donor in New Jersey.

]]>
Thu, 12 Sep 2013 12:22:52 -0700
4264:12228 <![CDATA[Learn how to improve your health at free symposium]]> Herbert Atienza Noted health experts will give health updates and tips to community members at the second annual Loma Linda Health Symposium, presented by the Loma Linda University Health Drayson Center Preventive Care Clinic.

The symposium, free and open to the public, is set for 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. this Saturday, September 14, at Loma Linda University Church, 11125 Campus Street, Loma Linda.

The presenters are:

• Michael Orlich, MD, who will speak on vegetarian diets and colon cancer prevention;
• Jerry Lee, PhD, MA, who will discuss the connection between spirituality and health; and
• Ryan Sinclair, PhD, MPH, who will talk about the importance of water for health.

“The main goal of this symposium is to offer information from experts and researchers about health issues that ordinary people can fully understand,” says Hildemar Dos Santos, MD, DrPH, director of the Loma Linda University Health Drayson Center Preventive Care Clinic.

“Our speakers will discuss everything from how to prevent colon cancer, which is the second most common cause of death by cancer for both men and women, to the connection between prayers and health. This is a unique and free opportunity that members of the community will not want to miss,” he adds.

The second annual Loma Linda Health Symposium is sponsored by Loma Linda University School of Public Health, Loma Linda University Health Drayson Center Preventive Care Clinic, and Loma Linda University Church.

]]>
Thu, 12 Sep 2013 12:21:03 -0700
4264:12226 <![CDATA[Seeds of Hope event to share power of overcoming mental illness and addiction]]> Heather Reifsnyder The sixth annual Seeds of Hope dinner, taking place October 15, will show the promise of new life that can be reached through treatment for mental health and addictions. Money raised will go to support the LLU Behavioral Medicine Center’s scholarships for those who cannot afford treatment as well as support for patients and their care.

“This is a free, inspiring event where people will learn more about mental illness and substance abuse and how it can affect everyone as well as how it affects our community,” says Jill Pollock, administrator for the Behavioral Medicine Center. “Attendees will hear stories of hope that break down the stigma surrounding mental illness and addiction and show how people can recover and live life to the fullest.”

The evening will feature two intertwining stories demonstrating how one person, whose life is changed through treatment, can influence and provide hope for other individuals and their families.

Seeds of Hope will take place October 15 at The Mitten Building in Redlands, beginning at 5:00 p.m. with a patient art exhibit, and dinner following at 6:00 p.m.

An RSVP is required to ensure there will be room for everyone. To make your reservation, please contact Jessica Rorick at (909) 558-3555 or jrorick@llu.edu by September 30. 

]]>
Thu, 12 Sep 2013 12:11:40 -0700
4264:12225 <![CDATA[Changes in time clocking begin September 18]]> Krista Miller In order to make it easier for employees to enter routine time clock corrections, and to reduce the number of authorization requests for approvers and editors, several clocking edits will no longer require approval when updated in API.

Corrections to the following fields will update on an employee’s time card immediately:

  • Department
  • Notes
  • Prompt Hours
  • Special Codes

This change will take effect Wednesday, September 18 for all LLU Health companies. Any corrections made prior to the 18th will still be entered as a request and must be authorized by an editor or approver.

Analysis was conducted to determine a cause of action which could improve the edit process for approvers, editors, and employees, and it was concluded that since approvers review time cards before approving on payroll Monday, the intermediary step of approving corrections as they are requested was redundant. With proper time card review, inappropriate corrections will still be identified in the same manner that original entries containing inappropriate data are identified.

The overall benefits of this change include:

  • Fewer requests for approvers and editors to manage
  • More accurate time cards at the end of the pay period
  • More time for approvers and editors to review/audit other time card information
  • More empowered employees
  • Immediately reflected corrections on employee’s time card

This change does not apply to edits made to approved calendar entries; it only applies to the clocking fields referenced above.

Adding a note to a clocking is not considered a “manual” clocking despite the fact that doing so prior to September 18 changes the clocking indicator to manual.

Please use caution when running the supervisor clocking source report for data prior to the effective date, as results may reflect clockings to which notes have been added.

For more information, contact the payroll office at payroll@llu.edu or (909) 651-4004 Mondays through Thursdays from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., or Fridays 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

]]>
Thu, 12 Sep 2013 12:09:50 -0700
4264:12224 <![CDATA[Notes from the President - September 2013]]> Dr. Richard Hart

Living and sharing good health

Prevention – Wellness – Lifestyle – Wholeness

Whatever you call it, it has been our “thing” for more than 100 years. From our very beginning to the latest research, improving one’s personal health behaviors has been at the heart of Loma Linda University Health in everything we do. We have taught good nutrition for a century, led the efforts against smoking, encouraged an active lifestyle, and in general pioneered the movement that is now sweeping across this country and around the world.

Occasionally alumni and others come up to me and say, “Dr. Hart, isn’t it terrible that others have stolen our thunder—they are telling and selling our message.” My response is always, “Praise the Lord—we have made a difference.” Let’s rejoice in this new awareness about the advantages of healthy living, and strive to do even more through research and education.

Let me share with you what our commitment is on this campus toward wellness. As part of Vision 2020, we want to make clear that the promotion of good health, in all its complexity and interrelatedness, is our primary objective. This includes the understanding that comes from a spiritual perspective and the motivation that comes from service to others. We will engage in high-tech medicine, pursue the latest research, and encourage training in the latest modalities. But at our core, we believe that the greatest benefit, the most bang for the buck, the happiest and most productive life, comes from following good health habits. So we intend to redouble our efforts to make sure that every student graduating from LLU, all 1,300 each year from our 100-plus programs, has personal knowledge on how to live healthfully as well as skills on how to share that knowledge with others.

We also intend to demonstrate good health practices across this entire campus—improving the menus in our cafeterias, encouraging daily exercise, strengthening personal support and relationships, and seeking wholeness in all our activities. Since we are self-insured for our employee and student health plans, we can monitor the effectiveness of what we do by how it impacts the incidence of various conditions and diseases, our use of medications, and the productivity of our employees. Mark Hubbard, our senior vice president for risk management, is chairing a working group to guide these initiatives on campus.

We will continue to expand our campus wellness program, called Living Whole, so ably led by Olivia Moses, with personalized programs designed for helping all who strive to achieve good health. As we refine this process, we plan to roll these programs out to our patients as well, through the utilization of LLEAP, our electronic medical record system. Patients will have access to our knowledge and programs in health promotion through community programs, web-based tools, active e-mail prompts, and other aids. In time, we expect to also push this information to the whole world through MOOCs—the acronym now given to Massive Open Online Courses delivered free over the Internet.

To bind together and feature this broad spectrum of programs, we feel a new name is appropriate. We have thought long and hard on how to capture our uniqueness among many competing programs on the market and have come up with WHOLE. HEALTH. We believe this captures our traditional emphasis on all aspects of life, including the physical, social, spiritual, behavioral, and environmental. It will also be used to feature our learning environment, called WHOLE. LEARNING.; our research activities—WHOLE. DISCOVERY.; and our behavioral objectives—WHOLE. RELATIONSHIPS.

To coordinate this major endeavor, we have asked Daniel Fontoura, currently one of our senior vice presidents in the Medical Center, to manage and facilitate this on a full-time basis. Daniel brings a personal passion for wholeness into his everyday living, along with considerable administrative skill and experience, and I am delighted he has agreed to lead out in our WHOLE. HEALTH. initiatives.

Our School of Public Health is also seeking to strengthen its programs and more effectively package them to match these changing national trends. Dean Tricia Penniecook has recently announced an organizational change to restructure their traditional six academic departments, currently aligned by discipline, into functional units organized by programmatic objectives. While still being refined, the academic center ideas gaining acceptance are: community resilience, healthy lifestyle and disease prevention, and health care leadership. Our traditional emphases on nutrition, global health, and other areas will be maintained and strengthened as we develop linkages across all the public health disciplines.

What does this all mean—for you, for Loma Linda, and for the many lives we impact? Do we still have something worth sharing? I am convinced that Loma Linda’s unique approach to health, with the understanding of ourselves as both children of God and stewards of this earth, connected and motivated by a commitment of service to others, will always be special. This brings a perspective to wellness that is unmatched by others. As this world struggles with many issues, including new avenues to improve both individual and corporate health, Loma Linda’s proven strategies for good health have never been more appropriate and important. Join me in sharing this good news with the world.

Office of the President, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350

Copyright © 2013 by Loma Linda University

llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 12 Sep 2013 12:07:39 -0700
4264:12084 <![CDATA[NASA research continues long history at Loma Linda University]]> James Ponder A group of earthbound scientists in the radiation medicine lab at Loma Linda University School of Medicine spends most of its time in outer space.

Not literally, of course. There isn’t a spacesuit among them but thanks to a long-running series of tests funded by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the team is metaphorically in space every day.

“The purpose of the NASA grants is to determine the health risks to astronauts on long-term space missions,” explains Greg Nelson, PhD, professor of basic sciences and radiation medicine at the school. 

“An unavoidable complication of space travel is exposure to proton and high-charge, high-energy particle radiation,” notes Roman Vlkolinsky, PhD, assistant research professor. Dr. Vlkolinsky adds that cosmic rays trigger oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and synaptic changes in the central nervous system similar to the effects of Alzheimer’s disease.

NASA established cooperative research activities with Loma Linda University Medical Center in the early 1990s and has been conducting or sponsoring research on campus ever since. 

“Currently, there are four NASA studies within the department of basic sciences,” Dr. Nelson reports. Two of the four studies are scheduled to end in 2014. The other two will conclude in 2016. Together, they are valued at more than $10 million.

The titles of the four studies suggest they might not be intended for casual reading:

  • Functional decline in mice with Alzheimer’s-type neurodegeneration is accelerated by charged-particle radiation;
  • Charged particle radiation and resultant oxidative stress elicit deleterious functional changes in the central nervous system;
  • Role of oxidative stress in mediating the effects of combined exposure to simulated microgravity and radiation on neurovascular remodeling in mice; and
  • Impact of spaceflight on primary and secondary antibody responses.

Dr. Vlkolinsky is principal investigator for the first study; Dr. Nelson for the second; and “Vivien” Xiao Mao, MD, assistant research professor; and Michael Pecaut, PhD, associate research professor, serve in the same capacity for the third and fourth studies, respectively.

Dr. Nelson maintains that the studies he and Dr. Vlkolinksy are conducting with their colleagues—postdoctoral fellow Irina Sokolova, PhD; research assistants Mary Campbell-Beachler, Gordon Harding, and Emil Rudobeck; and principal laboratory assistant Tamako Jones—have practical applications for assessing health risks in space.

“We look at the brain, the immune system, and bone as tissues that are at risk from radiation exposure,” he says, noting that his studies have been included in experiments flown on five Space Shuttle missions.

Dr. Nelson is optimistic about the future of space research.

“NASA has their timeline mapped out through the year 2050,” he concludes. “I don’t see it dying out any time soon.” 

]]>
Thu, 05 Sep 2013 11:44:05 -0700
4264:12083 <![CDATA[Research affairs awards intramural grants to collaborative projects]]> Heather Reifsnyder The LLU Health office of research affairs announced on Tuesday the seven winners of the GRASP awards (Grants for Research and School Partnerships).

Twenty-four applications were received from 43 different co-investigators, which were reviewed by a panel of senior researchers. Based on the combined scores of the reviewers, seven projects with investigators from six different schools were selected for funding.

 “Our goal is to encourage collaborative research between various parts of the institution,” says Anthony Zuccarelli, PhD, associate vice president for research.

The funded applications include basic laboratory research, translational studies, clinical projects, environmental investigations, and behavioral research. 

“We earnestly hope that the researchers are successful and publish their work,” says Dr. Zuccarelli.

The following four applications received $50,000 awards for 12-month projects:

• Ying Nie and Richard Hartman: The Long-Term Behavioral and Neuropathological Effects of Radiation-Induced Growth Hormone Deficiency
Kevin Nick and Kerby Oberg: Characterization of “Irritant Soil” in Ethiopia and its Role in Podoconiosis
• Mathew Kattadiyil and Susan Hall: Are Bone Turnover Markers Associated With Frequency of Complete Denture Relines?
Victoria Maskiewicz and Serkan Inceoglu: Novel Orthopedic Cements for the Controlled Delivery of Antibiotics in the Treatment of Prosthetic Infection in Total Joint Arthroplasty

Three additional applications were awarded $75,000 for 24-month projects:

• Xuezhong Qin and Wei-Xing Shi: Role of miRNA223 in Multiple Sclerosis
Cameron Neece and Lisa Roberts: Supporting Families of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and Challenging Behavior: A Pilot Study of the MAPS Project 
• Valery Filippova and Karen Jaceldo: Discovery of Serum Mediators, Biomarkers and Pathways that Reflect the Effects of Diet, Gender, Physical Activity and Race

]]>
Thu, 05 Sep 2013 11:38:59 -0700
4264:12081 <![CDATA[Trivia of the week]]> Heather Reifsnyder Each edition of News of the Week will now feature a piece of trivia about Loma Linda University Health.

Readers will be asked to fill in a missing piece of information. The first three people each week to provide the correct answer will receive a moderately awesome prize.

We begin with bugs:

In 1960, two LLU entomologists were entered into scientific taxonomy as the inspiration for newly named types of biting flies. After Chris Christianson came the name Forcipomyia christiansoni. Dasyhelea ryckmani and Culicoides ryckmani were named in honor of Raymond Ryckman. These flies are all part of the scientific family called ________.

If you can fill in the correct scientific family name, e-mail the answer to pr@llu.edu for a chance to win.

The answer, along with the winners’ names, will be published in next Thursday’s issue.

]]>
Thu, 05 Sep 2013 11:19:51 -0700
4264:12076 <![CDATA[Fire drill training now available anytime, anywhere]]> Heather Reifsnyder The department of environmental health and safety has made its fire drill training available via online video. It was formerly conducted via periodic live webinars.

The video is available on LLU Health organization-wide learning (OWL) portal at http://bit.ly/1dUmAmY.

“This new method brings more efficiency to the training by reducing the time spent in training from 45-60 minutes to 20 minutes,” says Preston Brown, fire safety technician. “It is also available anytime and anywhere that your schedule permits.”

The video outlines how to perform effective fire drills. It also explains why drilling is important, who is responsible for drills, and what tools are available to departments.

It is designed for department heads or their fire drill designee. For information regarding fire drill requirements and recommendations for different departments, contact Mr. Brown at extension 58163 or prbrown@llu.edu.

“After you take the course, we’d love to hear your feedback, especially if you have any suggestions for improving this or future courses,” he says.

The department of environmental health and safety also maintains a “Speaking of Safety” blog where readers can learn more about preventing hazards at work and home, safety regulations, and more.

The blog is available at http://blogs.mc.llumc.edu/speakingofsafety/.

]]>
Thu, 29 Aug 2013 00:00:00 -0700
4264:12071 <![CDATA[LLU Health representative briefs U.S. Congress]]> Larry Kidder A representative from Loma Linda University Health was part of a taskforce that briefed members of the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate this summer.

Dora Barilla, DrPH, assistant vice president for strategy and innovation, LLU Health, was part of the Community Preventive Services Task Force Congressional Briefing, held June 21 in the Rayburn House Office Building and the Dirksen Senate Office Building in Washington, D.C.

“The briefings were about the Community Guide and Community Preventive Services Task Force,” says Dr. Barilla, “and how leaders of the employer arena and community use the Community Guide to inform decisions about programs, policies, and strategies to improve health.”

Dr. Barilla shared the spotlight with Becky Lyons, manager of health care design for Wegmans Food Markets; Josie Gonzales, San Bernardino County Supervisor; and Paul Leon, mayor of the city of Ontario, California.

“My role,” Dr. Barilla explains, “was to give a brief overview of the Community Benefit Collaborative we’ve organized in the Inland Empire, and how I used the Community Guide to inform the selection of proven approaches to prevent cardiovascular disease.”

She adds, “This was a great opportunity to showcase Loma Linda’s role as an engine of health improvement, brightening the blips of LLU Health and the Inland Empire on the radar of four powerful Congressional committees.”

The Energy and Commerce Committee sponsored the briefing for the House of Representatives. For the Senate, the Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee sponsored the briefing.

]]>
Wed, 21 Aug 2013 00:00:00 -0700
4264:11982 <![CDATA[Nominate fellow employees for Spiritual Life Service Awards]]> Heather Reifsnyder The Loma Linda University Health spiritual life and wholeness committee seeks to recognize employees who exhibit a special commitment to the spiritual wholeness of colleagues, patients, students, or others. Employees from all LLU Health entities are eligible.

Nominees should have a vibrant faith in God that leads to extraordinary care for the spiritual well-being of others. They should possess an effective ability to bring hope and meaning to challenging situations.

Nominations can be e-mailed to mrasnic@llu.edu by September 20 and should include the following: the employee’s name and department as well as a paragraph describing how this individual meets the criteria. Please be specific about nominee’s spiritual influence and service to others.

People previously awarded will not be eligible for three years.

Gerald Winslow, PhD, vice president for spiritual life and wholeness, will present the awards at the Spiritual Life and Wholeness Banquet on Tuesday, October 22.

]]>
Thu, 29 Aug 2013 11:18:57 -0700
4264:11981 <![CDATA[Volunteers needed for LLU Children's Hospital radiothon]]> Krista Miller The children at Loma Linda University Children's Hospital need volunteers for the phone bank at the 12th Annual K-Froggers for Kids Radiothon. The September 11 and 12 event will benefit children battling cancer at LLU Children’s Hospital. The radiothon is presented by Stater Bros. Charities.

Volunteers are needed for the following shifts:

Wednesday, September 11
6:00 – 10:00 a.m.
10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
3:00  –  7:00 p.m.

Thursday, September 12
6:00 – 10:00 a.m. 
10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
3:00 – 7:00 p.m.

The radiothon will take place at Bass Pro Shops, 7777 Victoria Gardens Lane, Rancho Cucamonga, 91739.

Meals will be provided to volunteers.

To volunteer or for more information, please contact Tiffany Hoekstra at (909) 558-5367 or thoekstra@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 29 Aug 2013 11:05:06 -0700
4264:11980 <![CDATA[Murrieta receives accreditation as STEMI receiving center]]> Briana Pastorino Loma Linda University Medical Center–Murrieta has received accreditation from the County of Riverside Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Agency as a designated STEMI receiving center—the first and only hospital in the Murrieta area with a designation of this kind.

This designation brings lifesaving care to those in Murrieta and the surrounding communities who suffer from STEMI (ST elevated myocardial infarctions)—the most deadly form of heart attack. The designation became effective August 20 after a successful survey with EMS officials August 15.

“Obtaining accreditation as a STEMI receiving center is a vital step for our growth as a cardiac provider,” said LLUMC-Murrieta CEO Rick Rawson, MBA. “It is absolutely lifesaving for those who need this care. When a person experiences a STEMI, it is essential for the patient to receive immediate interventions. Individuals in the area have had to endure long transports to appropriate facilities for their care, but now they have what they need closer to home.”

Health care data show that approximately 20 to 30 patients per month suffering from a STEMI in the Murrieta area have had to be transported out of town—more than 30 miles away—for appropriate, interventional care. Now, with this accreditation, those patients will be brought to LLUMC-Murrieta.

Matt Shobert, fire chief, Murrieta Fire Department, said of the new accreditation, “Simply stated, this means more lives saved in the Murrieta Valley. We congratulate Loma Linda University Medical Center–Murrieta for this important milestone and are delighted to have been working with them. We look forward to an ongoing partnership with the hospital to continue saving lives in our community.”

“This accreditation is an important step in our ability to care for the members of our community,” said Sanjay Bhojraj, medical director, LLU International Heart Institute, “and will allow us to work closely with our first responders in the critical emergency of STEMI.”

In April 2012, LLUMC-Murrieta become a licensed provider of interventional cardiology, and to date, more than 120 open heart procedures have been performed at the hospital and more than 70 patients suffering from heart attacks have been cared for.

A STEMI results from the partial interruption of blood supply to a part of the heart muscle, damaging heart cells. The resulting oxygen shortage can cause the heart muscle to die. Patients experiencing a STEMI are at risk for developing sudden cardiac arrest and need to be transported immediately to a facility that can provide interventional care, stents, angioplasty, or even open heart surgery.

]]>
Thu, 29 Aug 2013 11:01:43 -0700
4264:11978 <![CDATA[Portion of Anderson Street to close tonight through Tuesday morning]]> Heather Reifsnyder Due to work by Southern California Edison, Anderson Street between Barton Road and Starr Street will be closed tonight at 7:00 p.m. through Tuesday, September 3, at 6:00 a.m.

People may detour on the east side of campus via Prospect Avenue and Benton Street. Traffic on the west side of campus can access Anderson via Campus Street and University Avenue.

For questions regarding the detour, please contact the LLU Health department of parking and traffic services at (909) 651-3025 or Parking@llu.edu. For project information, please contact Southern California Edison at (800) 655-4555.

]]>
Thu, 29 Aug 2013 10:58:19 -0700
4264:11976 <![CDATA[Featured video - Rehab at East Campus restores girl's life]]> Advancement Films ]]> A mysterious illness almost took Erin Tharp's life as a teenager, leaving her in a vegetative state. Thanks to rehabilitation at LLUMC East Campus, Erin, now 30 years old, is communicating in a different way and showing the world it is possible to live life to the fullest even in the face of great adversity.  

]]>
Thu, 29 Aug 2013 10:54:58 -0700
4264:11864 <![CDATA[LLU Health to receive nearly $1 million to help people access affordable health care]]> Herbert Atienza Loma Linda University Health will receive a grant of $990,000 from Covered California to conduct outreach and education programs on how, starting in 2014, Californians can access affordable health care coverage under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

LLU Health, in partnership with Community Clinic Association of San Bernardino County, is one of 48 lead organizations receiving grant awards totaling $37 million from Covered California to help residents access affordable health care coverage.

 The selected organizations will reach nearly 9 million people and more than 200,000 small businesses in California’s 58 counties. Covered California will focus its outreach on 5.3 million Californians in need of individual insurance, about half of whom may be eligible for financial assistance with their premiums.

“We are very excited to build on partnerships with organizations that have trusted relationships in diverse communities throughout the state,” says Peter V. Lee, executive director of Covered California. Covered California is charged with creating a new insurance marketplace in which individuals and small businesses can get access to health insurance, as provided by the federal health care law.

“Loma Linda University Health’s strategy to use provider educators who will champion Covered California has great outreach potential,” says Sarah Soto-Taylor, Covered California deputy director of community affairs. “Our partnership with Loma Linda will help raise awareness about our new health care marketplace in San Bernardino County among the medical professionals who come in contact daily with consumers who may benefit from premium assistance.”

The grant will allow LLU Health and the Community Clinic Association of San Bernardino County to pursue an outreach plan, developed under the leadership of Dora Barilla, DrPH, assistant vice president for strategy and innovation at LLUH, to reach out to diverse, uninsured populations within the county.

The plan includes staging group meetings, attending community events, coordinating with community clinics, and educating health care providers about the new California Health Benefit Exchange, a major component of the federal health care law.

“Key to successful implementation of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act is education, and we are very honored to have been selected by Covered California to help educate and assist the residents of San Bernardino County in gaining access to affordable health care,” says Gerald Winslow, PhD, vice president for mission and culture at LLUH, and director of the Institute for Health Policy and Leadership, the organizational entity at LLUH responsible for administering the grant.

]]>
Thu, 22 Aug 2013 11:26:27 -0700
4264:11868 <![CDATA[LLU Children's Hospital educates community about dangers of leaving kids in hot cars ]]> Briana Pastorino and Heather Reifsnyder It happens fast. The temperature in a sitting car can rise 40 degrees in less than 30 minutes—and an unattended child inside could suffer heat stroke or possibly die while a caregiver runs into the store.

Safe Kids Inland Empire Coalition used a car, thermometer, and various foods to make the dangers of such a situation visual to members of the media and their viewers and readers. The demonstration took place in front of LLU Children’s Hospital August 13.

Real butter, ice cream, chocolate, and leafy vegetables were placed inside a van that was attached to a digital thermometer measuring the temperature inside and outside. After roughly 30 minutes the items—which had obviously been damaged—were removed and placed on display.

Don Moores, MD, pediatric trauma surgeon at LLU Medical Center, explained the step-by-step physiological process a child—much like the melted butter and ice cream—can experience if exposed to extreme heat, as well as the signs, symptoms, treatments, and outcomes.

“A child’s body heats up much more quickly that an adult’s, which means children are more susceptible to injury if left in a hot car,” Dr. Moore said.

"When a child's internal temperature hits 104 degrees, internal organs start shutting down," said Clark Morrow, crime prevention coordinator for the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department. "When a child's temperature reaches 107 degrees, fatalities can occur."

Reporters from media outlets including ABC7, KCAL9/CBS2, and the San Bernardino Sun came to the event.

In 2001, Kaitlyn’s Law was passed in memory of 6-month-old Kaitlyn Russell, who died after being left in a hot van. The law made it illegal to leave a child 6 or younger in a car without the supervision of someone at least 12 years old, but the reality is that parents and caregivers still do it—and it needs to stop.

Nearly 600 children have died nationwide from heat stroke inside a parked car. Fifty-two percent of those children were forgotten by their caregiver; 29 percent were playing in an unattended vehicle; and 18 percent of them were intentionally left in the car.

]]>
Thu, 22 Aug 2013 11:36:40 -0700
4264:11866 <![CDATA[Documentary 'The Adventists 2' to show at Loma Linda University Church]]> Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Church will premiere the film “The Adventists 2” at 5:00 p.m. on August 31 in the sanctuary. Filmmaker Martin Doblmeier will be present to give remarks, along with Scott Nelson, MD, an LLU graduate who is featured in the film for his work in the Dominican Republic and Haiti.

The film will air on PBS and PBS World this fall. It is a follow-up to Mr. Doblmeier’s “The Adventists.” The first film focused on Adventist faith and health in the United States. The second installment features Adventist health missions worldwide.

Filmed in Haiti, the Amazon/Brazil, Malawi, Africa, China, Peru and the Dominican Republic, the new documentary chronicles the long tradition of Seventh-day Adventists sharing their health message around the globe through medical mission work. It shares “stories of today’s unsung medical missionaries and how they are reshaping health care out of a personal faith commitment,” according to Journey Films, Mr. Doblmeier’s production company.

View the official trailer for “The Adventists 2” at journeyfilms.com/portfolio-item/the-adventists-2-trailer-2.

Mr. Doblmeier first visited Loma Linda University Health a few years ago when his film Bonhoeffer screened here.

“I spent time going around to different parts of the [Loma Linda University] hospital,” he told Adventist Review magazine. “That’s when it started to percolate for me that here’s this somewhat conservative, biblically based Christian faith that’s also on the cutting edge of health care and medicine.”

His full interview with the magazine can be viewed at www.adventistreview.org.

]]>
Thu, 22 Aug 2013 11:32:45 -0700
4264:11871 <![CDATA[Leading expert to lecture on health disparities]]> Heather Reifsnyder David R. Williams, PhD, MPH—Florence Sprague Norman and Laura Smart Norman professor of public health at Harvard University—will present a seminar titled “Disparities in Health: Troubling Patterns, Promising Interventions” on Monday, August 26, 2013, at 1:00 p.m. in the Alumni Hall Amphitheater. 

Dr. Williams has authored more than 250 papers in journals of sociology, psychology, medicine, public health, and epidemiology, while his work has been funded or sponsored by organizations such as the National Institutes of Health, the World Health Organization, and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. 

Dr. Williams has shared his expertise on television networks including ABC, CNN, PBS, C-SPAN, and the Discovery Channel. 

His presentation is sponsored by the Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine and the department of basic sciences at LLU School of Medicine.

“Dr. Williams is recognized worldwide as a scholar on health disparities and social influences on health,” says Marino De Leon, PhD, director of the Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine at LLU. “All who come to Dr. Williams’ presentation will leave with a better understanding of the need to address health disparities in order to have healthier communities in our country and globally.”

 

]]>
Thu, 22 Aug 2013 11:40:10 -0700
4264:11862 <![CDATA[Seeking volunteers to help honor infants lost too soon ]]> Heather Reifsnyder A Walk to Remember will take place October 13, to be held by Children’s Hospital Bereavement Services at Loma Linda University Church. The walk is part of a countrywide movement coinciding with October’s designation as National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month.

The walk allows people to take the steps that these babies, gone too soon, will never get to take.

Volunteers are invited to help make the day a success for parents and others who mourn the loss of a young infant or baby never born. Help is needed with registration, greeting, refreshments, the walk, and more.

The event will begin with a remembrance ceremony at 4:00 p.m., followed by the short walk. Volunteers are needed from the hours 2:00 to 6:00 p.m.

Volunteers can register at https://emg.wufoo.com/forms/a-walk-to-remember-october-13th-2013. For questions about volunteering, send an e-mail to jcieslak@llu.edu.

Interested walk participants can learn more by e-mailing Shelly at smoore@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 22 Aug 2013 11:23:56 -0700
4264:11860 <![CDATA[Featured video - Seeking answers to earth's formations ]]> Advancement Films ]]> Dr. Leonard Brand of Loma Linda University - along with a colleague from Southwestern Adventist University - looks into how water has the power to shape our earth.

]]>
Thu, 22 Aug 2013 10:56:07 -0700
4264:11701 <![CDATA[Notes from the President - August 2013]]> Richard Hart, MD, DrPH

Growing our long tradition of African mission service

If one looks at the old class rosters from our School of Medicine, you see names that are now embedded in our mission history. The Class of 1920—just our sixth graduating class—is no exception. Steen, Coffin, and Kretchmar are names that immediately struck me as an early generation of those who came, studied, and went—to the far corners of this globe. The world was still reeling from the aftermath of World War I when they graduated, interned, and then accepted their calls to unknown places.

Arthur Kretchmar answered his call to a remote corner of Africa without a recognized name, which later became Bechuanaland, and eventually Botswana. An Adventist missionary family by the name of Anderson was working in the countryside and recognized the value a western physician could bring to the local people. Dr. Kretchmar answered that call, but he first had to go to England for a few months to establish his British credentials, as Bechuanaland was a British Protectorate. Then he went by ship to South Africa, and by land to a remote valley called Kanye, where he started to see patients.

The local people were afraid of having surgery unless their chief came into the operating room with them, but gradually confidence grew and the Kretchmars became a valued part of that community. The local Bangwaketse tribe was unable to pronounce Kretchmar, so they called him Tshoma. After two years, Dr. Kretchmar informed the local chiefs that he could not stay unless he was allowed to have a church to worship his God, something they had resisted. This created quite a discussion, but out of fear of losing "their" doctor, it was eventually allowed, and the first Adventist church in Botswana was built at Kanye.

I was privileged to preach in that church a few weeks ago. Sitting on a bluff overlooking a sprawling village of 40,000, the Kanye Adventist church is full and has spawned a number of other churches in the area.

Across the road is Kanye Adventist Hospital, a modern 167-bed hospital and referral center that still sets the standards for quality health care in this part of Botswana, some 100 kilometers from Gaborone, the capital. It is led by Dr. Bangwato Sikwa, an energetic ob/gyn doctor turned administrator. Seth and Yemina Lukens are the latest in a long series of Loma Linda graduates who have worked there. They met as missionary kids at Maluti Hospital in Lesotho, two countries over, and have now returned, after finishing Seth’s family medicine residency and Yemina’s nursing degree, with their three small children to Kanye. The hospital has asked to affiliate with Adventist Health International (AHI) as it struggles to keep pace with modern health care needs.

My other reason for being in Africa was to chair AHI board meetings in Malawi and Zambia. For those who may question the commitment of our young graduates today, I wish you could have been with me. As I watched and listened to what they are doing, in partnership with their national colleagues, my heart was moved. Janie and Paul Yoo are making an incredible impact in Lusaka, Zambia. Paul has established a bustling dental clinic, caring for many members of the community. Janie runs our Lusaka Eye Hospital, doing both simple and sophisticated eye surgeries, including the first cornea transplants in the country.

Mwami Hospital, in northeast Zambia, has been asked by the government to upgrade its long-recognized nursing school to a diploma program and expand its enrollment. Our agriculture program at Mwami now feeds the campus and sells surplus maize to help support the hospital.

And then there is Malawi. Though a small country, Malawi is full of energy and dreams. AHI was asked to begin work there eight years ago, when our major health institutions in Blantyre and Malamulo were struggling for survival. Now they are out of debt and thriving, housing a growing number of our LLU graduates. With five LLU School of Medicine grads—Cristy Shank, Ryan Hayton and Jamie Crounse at Malamulo, and Tiffany Priester and David Saunders in Blantyre—they cover disciplines as diverse as cardiology, infectious disease, surgery, family, and preventive medicine. The amazing thing is they all graduated from LLU between 2004 and 2007. When we add in our other grads—Julie-Anne Satterfield from nursing and Danielle Davis from pharmacy—we have what we are calling our Malawi Field Station. Edward Martin and Christi Carlton from public health have just finished their terms of service at Malamulo, and we thank them for their contributions.

With this collective energy and enthusiasm in one small country, watch what happens. Our fourth-year surgery residents from Loma Linda each rotate there for two months at a time. Plans are being finalized to start a surgery residency for medical students from Malawi and surrounding countries. Other residency programs are in the works. The Malamulo College of Health Sciences now offers four programs—nursing, medical assistant, laboratory technology, and clinical officers—and is ready to upgrade and expand. We expect to recapture its prominence from years gone by, when it set the educational standards for this part of Africa.

Some may say, “What a blessing we have provided for Africa.” My response is just the opposite—what a blessing Africa has provided for us. By giving our faculty and graduates a place to serve, these countries have enabled each of us to understand human need and grow in our ability to serve. Despite the challenges faced, the satisfaction at the end of a day of making a difference in the lives of so many is immeasurable. We now have graduates scattered across the Majority World, living their dreams while they serve in areas of great need. Pray for them as they answer the call “To Make Man Whole.”

]]>
Thu, 15 Aug 2013 11:57:30 -0700
4264:11695 <![CDATA[Featured video - A renewed life thanks to urogynecology surgery ]]> Advancement Films ]]> After having surgery for a total bladder prolapse at LLU Health, Vonnie Jones is enjoying life in fun and exciting ways. "I would send my friends to Loma Linda in a heartbeat," she says.

]]>
Thu, 15 Aug 2013 11:24:57 -0700
4264:11692 <![CDATA[Teams invited to join together to support cancer patients at Believe Walk]]> Heather Reifsnyder The 6th Annual Believe Walk will take place October 6 in Redlands. The Loma Linda University Cancer Center encourages employees to form teams and walk in this event that raises money to support cancer patients and their families in the Inland Empire. LLU Cancer Center is one of the organizations that benefits from the money raised each year.

LLU Health wants to present a united front at the walk, so all teams are asked to add “LLUH” in front of their team name—and all who do will receive a free Cancer Center T-shirt to wear that day.

Teams should e-mail their team names and shirt sizes to kculler@llu.edu by September 3 to receive the T-shirts.

Employees can register for the walk at believeinlandempire.com.

The annual Believe Walk is presented by Inland Women Fighting Cancer and Stater Bros. Charities. 

]]>
Thu, 15 Aug 2013 11:00:18 -0700
4264:11690 <![CDATA[Fall Faculty Colloquium to discuss domestic violence]]> Heather Reifsnyder What is the responsibility of a faculty member who is confronted with a domestic violence situation facing a student or coworker? The September 19 Fall Faculty Colloquium will address such questions to ensure readiness should the unfortunate need arise.

Faculty members from all schools are encouraged to attend.

The day’s keynote speaker will be Jocelyn Coupal, JD, a domestic violence consultant and trial attorney who has argued more than 6,000 cases. Dr. Coupal has also taught a wide variety of audiences—including justice system participants, health care professionals, educators, businesspeople, and community members—on the subject of domestic violence and what each person can do within his or her own circles to keep one another safe and potentially prevent a homicide.

Dr. Coupal was recently on campus to meet with members of the University Faculty Council and LLU Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Task Force. 

“Dr. Coupal is an extremely passionate, knowledgeable, and engaging person who brought to light the importance of recognizing the signs of domestic violence,” says Eric Johnson, DSc, chair of the University Faculty Council. “Her insights on strategic inter-professional roles are eye opening.” 

The colloquium will take place in the Centennial Complex on Thursday, September 19, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., with the keynote presentation beginning at 11:00 a.m.

Other items on the agenda include brief reports from each of the schools and the State of the University address from Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president. 

]]>
Thu, 15 Aug 2013 10:56:27 -0700
4264:11687 <![CDATA[KOLA Cares For Kids Radiothon raises more than $50,000 for Children's Hospital]]> Briana Pastorino The 11th annual KOLA Cares For Kids Radiothon raised $54,019 for Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital during the all-day event on KOLA 99.9 FM on Friday, August 9. 

“KOLA has once again provided tremendous support for our precious patients,” says Zareh Sarrafian, MBA, administrator of Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital. “We look forward to the KOLA Cares for Kids Radiothon every year—not only because it raises the funds that are critically needed for our children, but because we are encouraged by the tremendous outpouring of love and support from KOLA listeners.”

In addition to a flat donation, those who donated also had the option to purchase a KOLA Bear for $99.90. Patients who are transported to LLU Children’s Hospital, either by ambulance or helicopter, are given a KOLA Bear to comfort them and their family. The Children’s Hospital transport team considers the KOLA Bear to be a vital team member, as well. A total of 506 bears were donated to the hospital through the radiothon.

Patient mom Morayma Aviles visited the radio station during the radiothon to share her son’s story. “The KOLA Bear gave my family and me comfort because my baby was being taken to the hospital,” she said. Ms. Aviles’ son, Giovanni, was transported to LLU Children’s Hospital from Riverside just three days after his birth on November 23, 2012.

Giovanni was diagnosed with Hirschsprung's disease, which affects the large intestine or gastrointestinal tract, and was not able to digest food properly. Fortunately his medical team at the hospital was able to treat him, and he is now a happy, healthy 9-month-old.

“Everyone at LLU Children’s Hospital made this experience the best it could possibly be,” Ms. Aviles said. “Being at the hospital near the holidays, we were even able to experience the toy drive.”

“It’s stories like Giovanni’s that remind us how important something so simple as a little bear can mean to a child, or even a parent,” says Gary Springfield, program director, KOLA 99.9 FM. “This radiothon is just one way we can lend a helping hand to the hospital that does so much for the kids in our community.”

Donations to LLUCH can still be made by texting “KIDS” to 27722 from a wireless phone. Ten dollars will be charged to your phone bill, and normal data rates apply.

]]>
Thu, 15 Aug 2013 10:52:19 -0700
4264:11535 <![CDATA[Traffic light on Campus Street to be converted to stop sign for construction ]]> Department of Parking & Traffic Effective Friday, August 9, the existing traffic signal on Campus Street by the parking structure will be removed and replaced with a full STOP sign in both directions. Traffic officers will be present Monday through Friday during rush hours to ensure that traffic continues to flow.

LLU Health’s contractor, Bomel Construction, will be removing the existing signals to widen the street and install new signals that will allow better access to the new parking structure when it opens. This work should take about 30 days. After this section is completed, widening of Campus Street from the new structure south to Barton Road will begin.

The department of parking & traffic apologizes for the inconvenience but hopes everyone looks forward to an improved Campus Street.

]]>
Thu, 08 Aug 2013 11:59:06 -0700
4264:11530 <![CDATA[Disaster drill at Loma Linda University Health on August 15 will be a 'code orange' HAZMAT situation]]> Briana Pastorino Various areas of the main Loma Linda University Health campus will be involved in a disaster drill on Thursday, August 15, from 8:00 a.m. to noon. An accident involving a tanker carrying chlorine will be simulated. The scenario will have a sheared valve leaking a gas plume into the environment.

“This drill will give hospital and university staff an opportunity to test emergency protocols—including shelter-in-place procedures—for a HAZMAT situation, known as a ‘code orange,’” says Brett McPherson, emergency management supervisor for LLU Health. “Additionally, this is a chance for us to collaborate with Loma Linda and San Bernardino County fire departments as well as local law enforcement to assure that we all know what to do in the event of an actual chemical emergency.”

Areas on campus that will be impacted the day of the drill are Centennial Complex and parking lot G-East, which is west of Chan Shun Pavilion. Expect to receive text, e-mail, phone, and 2-way pager communication throughout the duration of the drill, as the emergency notification system will also be tested.

Please refer any questions to environmental health and safety at (909) 651-1408. 

]]>
Thu, 08 Aug 2013 11:27:27 -0700
4264:11526 <![CDATA[Occupational medicine has new location]]> Krista Miller Occupational medicine has moved to 328 East Commercial Road, Suite 101, San Bernardino, CA 92408.

Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The office is closed weekends and holidays.

For additional information, please call (909) 558-6222.

]]>
Thu, 08 Aug 2013 11:10:34 -0700
4264:11524 <![CDATA[New hiring process finds the right employees to nurture LLU Health's mission]]> Nancy Yuen When patients and guests think of Loma Linda University Health, they remember not only the success of medical treatment but also how the staff made them feel.

Each year, of thousands of people apply to LLU Health; some years more than 100,000 applications are submitted. LLU Medical Center’s rollout of the tool CarePix™ has refined the hiring process to ensure that staff members support the organization’s culture of providing whole-person care.

Initially implemented in 2008 to a test group, then fully deployed across the Medical Center in 2010, CarePix is a system that involves peer-based and behavior-based interviewing and hiring. It has been used for 97 percent of new hires since implementation.

“It can be difficult to change minds or hearts,” says Gerald Winslow, PhD, vice president for mission and culture, “so we have put much thought and resources into refining the hiring process. We are beginning to see hard evidence that CarePix is effective.”

Between 2008 and 2011, employee turnover for the test group at the Medical Center decreased 34 percent. Involuntary staff departures in the same group dropped by 26 percent, and discipline for attendance violations lowered 34 percent.

“We have adapted CarePix to help us hire individuals who live the core values of LLU Health: compassion, integrity, teamwork, and wholeness,” Dr. Winslow explains.

Further statistics show that staff turnover in environmental services decreased from 5.6 percent to 1.10 percent between 2008 and 2011 (a 80 percent difference).

On unit 4700, the turnover rate fell by 33 percent during the same time period; and on unit 9300, turnover dropped by 70 percent.

At the Heart and Surgical Hospital, which opened in 2009, 100 percent of the staff have been hired through the CarePix interview process, and the facility has achieved a 99th percentile patient satisfaction score.

Hiring the best possible staff will also help LLU Health prepare for health care reform, under which reimbursement is tied to patient satisfaction. Loma Linda may provide care to as many as 300,000 to 400,000 extra patients each year as access to insurance coverage expands.

Dr. Winslow experienced a powerful moment several years ago demonstrating what can be revealed during a behavior-based interview. The applicant already had an excellent job at a different organization.

“Why are you interested in working at LLU Medical Center?” Dr. Winslow asked.

The applicant’s reply: "Faith is not welcome where I work now. It would be frowned upon if I prayed at work. It is different at Loma Linda; I want to work at a place where all of me can show up for work."

While it began as an LLUMC program, the CarePix contract has been rewritten to encompass all of LLU Health. Anyone who has questions about implementing it in his or her area should contact Della Stange at ext. 15993.

]]>
Thu, 08 Aug 2013 11:08:07 -0700
4264:11522 <![CDATA[UCLA football players visit kids at Loma Linda University Children's Hospital clinic]]> Herbert Atienza Members of the UCLA Bruins football team took time out before beginning season practice to visit and bring cheer to kids at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital on August 1.

Four members of the team came bearing posters and other gifts to the hospital’s hematology-oncology clinic in San Bernardino. There, they traded stories, signed autographs, played videogames, and posed for pictures with the children. The team members who visited were Phil Ruhl, fullback; Aramide Olaniyan, linebacker; TJ Millweard, quarterback; and Eli Ankou, defensive end.

“It’s great to be here and be able to meet these kids,” said Mr. Millweard. “These kids really inspire us with their strength and courage in the face of everything they’ve been through.”

The Bruins are going to be a familiar sight in the area for the next few weeks as they hold open practices at the San Bernardino Camp at California State University, San Bernardino, with support from Stater Bros. Markets. The public practices began on August 7. UCLA begins the 2013 football season at home against Nevada on August 31.

“Stater Bros. Markets is happy to welcome and support the UCLA football team to Camp San Bernardino and join them in a visit to Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital,” said Susan Atkinson, vice president for corporate affairs at Stater Bros. Markets.

]]>
Thu, 08 Aug 2013 11:05:03 -0700
4264:11520 <![CDATA[Featured video - The power of bariatric surgery]]> Advancement Films ]]> Jill Brush had struggled with her weight for several years before undergoing bariatric surgery at Loma Linda University Medical Center. Now she's happier, and experiencing life in new ways. "I told all my friends to go to Loma Linda because it was such a good experience for me," she says.

]]>
Thu, 08 Aug 2013 11:00:58 -0700
4264:11479 <![CDATA[Alumnus Dr. Frank Jobe honored by Baseball Hall of Fame]]> Briana Pastorino School of Medicine class of 1956 alumnus Frank W. Jobe, MD, was honored by the National Baseball Hall of Fame during its Induction Ceremony July 28 in Cooperstown, New York—and he’s never played a single inning of professional baseball.

Dr. Jobe’s impact on the field, however, has been felt through the 124 Major League pitchers whose careers have been saved thanks to a surgery he pioneered in 1974.

“I knew some friends and colleagues of mine were campaigning to get me recognized by the Hall of Fame but never thought it would really happen,” Dr. Jobe says. “I appreciate every moment of it.”

Also celebrating is his alma mater. “Loma Linda University School of Medicine is extremely proud of Dr. Jobe's accomplishments,” says Roger Hadley, MD, dean of the school. “We strive to matriculate physicians into the professional world so that they may have a successful and fulfilling life—not just in the medical field, but in all that they do. Dr. Jobe has done that and more.”

Before 1974, a torn ulnar collateral ligament—a common elbow injury for many baseball pitchers—meant the end of a pitcher’s career. As an orthopaedic surgeon and team doctor for the LA Dodgers, Dr. Jobe changed all that by pioneering a procedure known as the “Tommy John” surgery after the first pitcher it saved. 

“I was scared to death,” recalls Mr. John, former pitcher for the Dodgers, of when he learned his career was likely finished due to his injury. “Back then if you were operated on, you were toast. I thought I was going to end up selling used cars on my friend’s lot back home. Thankfully I was with the Dodgers. Thankfully I had Dr. Frank Jobe as my surgeon. He completed the mission.”

The ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction is essentially a ligament transplant. “We take a tendon from one part of the patient’s body and reconstruct the ligament in the pitching arm to make it work like it used to,” Dr. Jobe explains.

Trying it was risky, but 31-year-old Mr. John was adamant that he wasn’t going to quit the sport he loved. Dr. Jobe gave him a 1 in 100 chance of ever pitching again.

On September 26, 1975, one year and one day after the surgery, Mr. John pitched his first game for three innings and was back in rotation by 1976. 

“Had I never been with the Dodgers, I would have never met Dr. Jobe,” Mr. John says. “He is the best orthopaedic surgeon in the world and he’s my friend.”

Dr. Jobe served as team physician for the Dodgers for 40 years. He still acts as a vital resource to the team, and he has also been the orthopaedic consultant for the PGA and Senior PGA Tours for 26 years.

Dr. Jobe’s impact on baseball has been felt in Japan, as well, where he played a key role in saving the careers of professional players. His personal care for the players and the generous teaching and training he has provided to Japanese physicians has made him a national treasure to both baseball and sports medicine followers.

Dr. Jobe also co-founded the Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic in California, which continues to be a vital asset in the world of sports medicine, serving athletes of every caliber.

While the campaign for Dr. Frank Jobe was successful in garnering the recognition he deserved for his contribution to sports medicine during this year’s Hall of Fame weekend in Cooperstown, New York, the desired goal is to actually get Dr. Jobe inducted into the Hall of Fame. The campaign will carry on until that goal is achieved. For more information visit www.drjobehof.org.

 

]]>
Thu, 01 Aug 2013 11:21:40 -0700
4264:11473 <![CDATA[Featured video - LLU Health commercial airing nationally]]> ]]> Loma Linda University Health’s new television commercial for the Live It campaign has begun airing in 19 major metropolitan areas coast to coast. 

]]>
Thu, 01 Aug 2013 10:51:55 -0700
4264:11475 <![CDATA[Inspire others with your LOV stories]]> Loma Linda University Health is collecting stories that illustrate how the organization’s values of compassion, integrity, excellence, teamwork, and wholeness are being lived out daily within the organization.

The stories will be printed in the forthcoming third volume of “LOV Stories.” LOV stands for Living Our Values.

Employees are invited to share experiences that have happened to them or a colleague. Help with writing is available; employees gifted in writing have volunteered their time to help write, edit, and interview those with stories to tell.

There are several ways to submit a LOV story:

• E-mail: LOVStories@llu.edu
• Online: http://bit.ly/MyLOVstory
• Intercampus mail: MC-4011
• Fax: (909) 558-0862 or ext. 80862

Please include your name and extension or e-mail address.

For more information, call extension 48406.

Volume 3 of “LOV Stories” will be published in 2014 and will be made available to every employee via employee events and intercampus mail.

Copies of Volume 2 are still available. To receive a copy, please contact Shelly at smoore@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 01 Aug 2013 11:00:12 -0700
4264:11477 <![CDATA[Health Disparities Research Symposium to feature more than 50 research presentations]]> The Loma Linda University Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine will host the 13th Annual Health Disparities Research Symposium on Wednesday, Aug. 7.

The keynote speaker will be John Matsui, PhD, assistant dean, biological sciences, and director of the Biology Scholars Program of the College of Letters and Science, University of California, Berkeley. Known nationally for his innovative student development program, Dr. Matsui's presentation is titled "Diversity and 'Good Science.'"

The symposium will feature more than 50 biomedical research poster presentations from high school, undergraduate, graduate, and medical students participating in various biomedical research-training programs sponsored by the Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine.

These research trainees have been engaged in basic, translational, and community-based biomedical research conducted in the department of basic sciences, the department of pathology and human anatomy, the Center for Perinatal Biology, the School of Public Health, the Jerry L. Pettis VA Medical Center, and the Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine.

The Annual Health Disparities Research Symposium will be held in Wong Kerlee International Conference Center. Registration is free, but it must be completed by 11:59 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 4. Register at https://llu.co1.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_djswVdI1T4VTppb.

The Loma Linda University Center for Health Disparities and Molecular Medicine is a National Institutes of Health-designated Center of Excellence for health disparities and minority health.

Schedule for 13th Annual Health Disparities Research Symposium

3:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m. – Scientific poster presentations

5:00 p.m.–5:30 p.m. – Refreshments

5:30 p.m.–7:00 p.m. – Formal program including remarks from Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of LLU Health, and Roger Hadley, MD, dean of Loma Linda University School of Medicine, as well as keynote address by Dr. Matsui.

7:00 p.m.–7:15 p.m. – Acknowledgement of research fellows

]]>
Thu, 01 Aug 2013 11:04:43 -0700
4264:11457 <![CDATA[Parking update: new structure and future plans]]> As the West Hall parking structure nears completion in November, the additional 1,200-space structure will bring the total number of parking spaces on campus to almost 9,000. The department of parking and traffic services has also entered into the planning stages of a second parking structure of approximately 750 spaces. 

The organization is aware of the parking challenges on campus, and it continues to address the issue and make improvements, according to the department of parking and traffic services. The department is required to walk a fine line between supplying the parking needs of the organization and enforcing LLU Health parking regulations. 

Currently there are more than 24,000 active accounts on file in the online parking management system, along with over 200,000 license plates. The department is responsible for monitoring all of the 97 lots surrounding the Loma Linda campus, totaling more than 7,700 parking spaces. With transient vehicle traffic, more than 40,000 vehicles per day travel within the city of Loma Linda. Administration has requested that department staff serve as committee members of the county and city traffic councils and work with those agencies to continue development.  

Due to the need to properly control parking for the organization, the department of parking and traffic began creating the online parking management system more than four years ago, developing it completely in-house. The ideas and working structure of the system were a collaborative effort involving the entire parking staff; both office personnel and enforcement officers gave input.

Today, the parking management system is the most advanced in the country, according to Steve Hertel, executive director. It is currently being marketed to other universities throughout the United States.

Entry and exit to the West Hall parking structure will be controlled by the system’s license-plate recognition cameras. The employee will pull into the entry lane and the system will read the license plate; if the vehicle is authorized to use the lot, the gate will open. The entire process should take less than three seconds per car. The exit lanes will work the same way.

The new parking structure has many new safety features including glass-walled elevators and staircases, as well as state-of-the-art surveillance systems. Additionally, a computerized motion-detecting lighting system will be installed. The surveillance system will include nearly 100 cameras in locations such as the stairways, elevator landings, elevator cars, and each floor. These are a few of the additional details that are intended to increase safety and security. 

Future plans for the campus include opening the online parking management system, currently only accessible on campus, to the World Wide Web so that users may access their accounts from home or their wireless devices.

Additionally, an app is in the final process of development, from which users can manage their parking accounts, receive traffic information, and see parking updates on their phones.

In efforts to further improve security, LLU Health administration has authorized the department to begin looking into converting the existing lots to the online parking management system. The upgrades will also include new lighting, cameras, and security fencing.

Steve Hertel states, “We want our fellow employees and visitors to feel as safe as possible while using the parking lots on campus. We can’t completely stop all events; however, we can send a clear message that Loma Linda is not the place to be if you intend to break the law.”

The department hopes that these added benefits and the new structure will help address the overall parking needs of the organization.

]]>
Thu, 25 Jul 2013 12:15:30 -0700
4264:11451 <![CDATA[Preventive Care Clinic open house to include wellness screening and health counseling]]> Herbert Atienza Free wellness checks, body composition analysis, and counseling to help prevent disease will be offered at the Drayson Center Preventive Care Clinic open house at Loma Linda University Health on July 30.

The open house, free to the public, is set for 3:00–7:00 p.m. The event will be held at the Drayson Center, 25040 Stewart St.

“We are inviting the public to an open house for a very unique type of clinic, where there are no medical tests, pills, or prescriptions,” says Hildemar Dos Santos, MD, DrPH, assistant professor in the preventive care program, LLU School of Public Health, and director of the Drayson Center Preventive Care Clinic.

“The clinic’s focus is helping patients change their unhealthy behaviors,” he explains. “Did you know that many patients who have, or are at high risk for, diabetes, hypertension, cholesterol, and heart disease will improve their health if they stop smoking, lose weight, start exercising, control stress, and so on?

“That is why the Drayson Center Preventive Care Clinic was created: to help, motivate and guide patients toward a pathway of health and prevention of chronic diseases.”

Activities and features planned for the open house include body composition checks and counseling; blood glucose checks; a booth about the Full Plate Diet; health brochures and posters; blood pressure checks; waist and hip circumference testing; handgrip and strength tests; a view of the medicinal herb garden; and healthy snacks.

For more information, call (909) 651-5077. 

]]>
Thu, 25 Jul 2013 12:03:43 -0700
4264:11443 <![CDATA[Pictures available from photo booth at All-Star Appreciation]]> If you are interested in ordering pictures, contact Marketing at 33450.

]]>
Thu, 25 Jul 2013 11:20:36 -0700
4264:11453 <![CDATA[LLU Children's Hospital to benefit from $2.5 million for pediatric MS research]]> Briana Pastorino The Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis Center at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital has been named one of three newly funded pediatric multiple sclerosis (MS) centers by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

LLU Children’s Hospital will benefit from a new, three-year funding commitment of $2.5 million for the Network of Pediatric MS Centers, which includes nine centers across the United States. All centers have begun to receive funding to provide essential infrastructure to facilitate research, including searching for the cause of MS, by studying risk factors for the disease in children close to the time of exposure.

This support for data coordination can be leveraged to answer other important research questions and advance understanding of the disease in this most vulnerable group. 

Gregory Aaen, MD, director of the Pediatric Multiple Sclerosis Center, is thrilled that LLU Children’s Hospital was recognized.

“This is a true testament to the care we provide to our MS patients,” he says. “The most common questions I get from my patients and their families are ‘why did my child get MS?’ and ‘what can we expect in the future?’

“With this funding, we are hoping to be able to provide more answers,” he explains. “This grant will further support research projects of the Pediatric MS Center at Loma Linda University with the hope of helping children with MS live longer, fuller, and very productive lives.”

One Children’s Hospital patient who is hoping for a cure one day is 16-year-old Chloe McCabe, who was diagnosed with MS just three years ago. “We were referred to Loma Linda after she had her first attack,” says Chloe’s mom, Cynthia. “We were in shock when we found out she had MS.”

Chloe reports, however, that with the exception of occasional blurred vision or tingling in her arms and legs, she feels like any normal teenager. “Luckily with the help of Dr. Aaen, I don’t really have any symptoms of MS,” she says.

Chloe and her mom, Cynthia, commute from San Jacinto every three months for checkups with Dr. Aaen at Loma Linda University Pediatric MS Center.

Dr. Aaen is thankful for the National MS Society for putting LLU Children’s Hospital on the map as a nationally recognized center. “When a child is suspected to have MS, we want the public to think of Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital as a vital local resource.”

“This investment provides the infrastructure and research support needed to keep this unique network—with the largest group of well-characterized pediatric MS cases in the world—moving forward,” says Dr. Timothy Coetzee, National MS Society chief research officer. “Driving research to improve the care of children affected by MS and determining what triggers this disease is part of our commitment to all people living with MS.”

Multiple sclerosis is more common in adults but affects 8,000-10,000 children in the United States, according to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

The inflammatory disease affects the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, disrupting parts of the nervous system and potentially affecting a person’s physical and mental abilities. Visual, sensory, and motor problems are the most common symptoms of MS.

]]>
Thu, 25 Jul 2013 12:08:22 -0700
4264:11442 <![CDATA[LLU Health to honor area faith leaders with appreciation breakfast]]> Loma Linda University Health recognizes the commitment and value of area clergy of all denominations and faiths. The organization would like to thank them for the care and healing they provide to the community.

An August 21 breakfast will honor area faith leaders for their tireless efforts. It will take place from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the Centennial Complex.

Employees of LLU Health are invited to hand-deliver an invitation to the leader of their faith community. For invitations and details, please call (909) 558-3841 (ext. 33841).

Employees may accompany their faith leader to the breakfast if they choose. Registration is open through August 15 at http://lluhsclergybreakfast.eventbrite.com/.

]]>
Thu, 25 Jul 2013 11:17:37 -0700
4264:11434 <![CDATA[Musicians sought for ThankSharing program]]> Consider sharing your musical or vocal talents with the community during LLU Health’s annual ThankSharing program Saturday, November 16. Video submissions will be accepted through August 30.

To enter, employees should film and upload their performance to a video site such as YouTube, then e-mail the URL to KMcMillan@llu.edu. Alternatively, submissions can be put on a CD or thumb drive and delivered to LLU Medical Center employee spiritual care, room 4011, 11234 Anderson Street.

]]>
Thu, 25 Jul 2013 10:13:32 -0700
4264:11459 <![CDATA[Featured video - Luke the Lion's birthday]]> Advancement Films ]]> Loma Linda University Children's Hospital patients were treated to a birthday bash with hospital mascot Luke the Lion. The party was hosted by the Big Hearts For Little Hearts Loma Linda Guild.

]]>
Thu, 25 Jul 2013 12:28:23 -0700
4264:11387 <![CDATA[LLU Health Integrated Wayfinding Project moves forward with signage testing]]> Larry Kidder Two companies—fd2s and EGG—were on the Loma Linda University Medical Center and Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital campuses Monday and Tuesday, July 15 and 16, to perform the first round of tests for various wayfinding signage.

The Integrated Wayfinding Project team, tasked with making the campus easier to find and more navigable, has hired these two companies to create a comprehensive wayfinding plan to help visitors.

Prior to making their recommendations, fd2s and EGG representatives are testing various ideas for signage.

During the first phase of testing, they focused on public elevator names and icons for the Medical Center and Children’s Hospital, the interior sign family for LLU Medical Center, a system map design for both hospitals, and a select group of campus, building, and destination names.

On Monday and Tuesday, August 5 and 6, they will continue their usability testing, as well as try out some exterior signage components. Please take time to provide the representatives with feedback if asked.

For more information about the wayfinding project, e-mail Beth Rose, executive program manager for the integrated wayfinding project and director of hospitality services for LLU Medical Center, at earose@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 18 Jul 2013 12:08:50 -0700
4264:11385 <![CDATA[U.S. News & World Report recognizes excellence at LLU Medical Center]]> Herbert Atienza The department of gynecology at Loma Linda University Medical Center ranks in the top 50 among all such specialty programs in the country, according to U.S. News & World Report’s annual survey of approximately 5,000 U.S. hospitals.

LLU Medical Center also ranked, for the fourth consecutive year, at No. 1 out of 44 hospitals surveyed in the Inland Empire. Among hospitals statewide, the Medical Center moved up to No. 13 from last year’s position of 18.

The annual U.S. News Best Hospitals rankings, now in their 24th year, recognize hospitals that excel in treating the most challenging patients.

CEO Ruthita Fike, MA, says “These honors are very much valued by our organization because they reflect the commitment, hard work, and clinical expertise of thousands of physicians, nurses, and staff, all dedicated to upholding our mission of continuing the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ.”

Only about 15 percent of hospitals are recognized for their high performance as among their region’s best. Just 3 percent of all hospitals earn a national ranking in any of 16 looked-at specialties, according to Avery Comarow, U.S. News health rankings editor.

"We are deeply honored to be nationally ranked for the provision of high-quality gynecologic care,” says Ron Swensen, MD, chair of the department of gynecology and obstetrics. 

“This reflects the expertise of the entire team: doctors, nurses and ancillary personnel, all working toward a superior patient experience,” he adds. “We thank our patients for their trust in us."

Aside from giving gynecology national ranking, U.S. News cited the following “high performing” specialties at Loma Linda: cancer; cardiology and heart surgery; diabetes and endocrinology; ear, nose and throat; gastroenterology and GI surgery; geriatrics; nephrology; orthopedics; pulmonology; and urology.

The rankings have been published at http://health.usnews.com/best-hospitals and will appear in print in the U.S. News Best Hospitals 2014 guidebook, available in bookstores and on newsstands August 27.

]]>
Thu, 18 Jul 2013 11:40:21 -0700
4264:11379 <![CDATA[Live video stream of weekly chapel now available campus-wide]]> Heather Reifsnyder As of last week, Loma Linda University has made it possible for everyone on campus to watch a live online stream of the weekly chapel service, University@Worship. Previously, the Medical Center network could not access this service.

University@Worship takes place Wednesdays from 11:00 to 11:50 a.m., followed by a brief interview of the speaker that delves further into the day’s topic and the speaker’s personal story and walk with God. The broadcast then closes at 11:58 a.m.

The service can also be viewed on mobile devices or from a home computer.

“Studying and working at Loma Linda University Health is a calling to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ,” says Chaplain Terry Swenson, DMin, MDiv.

“The worship service unites us together in this mission across academic and professional disciplines. We warmly invite you to watch the online broadcast of University@Worship if you cannot be there in person,” he adds.

Visit www.llu.edu/central/chaplain/live.page? on Wednesdays at 11:00 to view the service. For the best viewing experience, users should ensure their Internet browsers are up to date, according to Stephen Robertson, senior audiovisual technician for Internet media at LLU, who has made this broadcast possible.

For those who would like to attend University@Worship in person, it takes place in the sanctuary at Loma Linda University Church. 

]]>
Thu, 18 Jul 2013 11:18:58 -0700
4264:11374 <![CDATA[All-Star Appreciation Day: Photos of the game]]> Heather Reifsnyder Approximately 6,500 employees and their guests enjoyed last night’s game between the Inland Empire 66ers and the Lancaster Jethawks.

The evening, free to employees as thanks for their dedication, also featured gifts for several lucky employees. The winners are:

Aniesa Kirklin – Kitchen Aid mixer

Jesse Malaguit – Men’s bike

Bruce Bradley – iPad mini

Douglas Brasch – BOSE home theatre system

Meagan Bridenstine – Nikon camera

Amy Yin – Beats bundle package

Elsa Simental – Samsung 3D 60” smart TV

Rachel Marie Agahzadeh – Grand prize Hawaii vacation package

Loma Linda University Health’s dedication to encourage community wellness extends to people’s work, home lives, and recreation. Last night’s game with friends and family was another small way we encourage you to LIVE IT!

]]>
Thu, 18 Jul 2013 11:11:40 -0700
4264:11368 <![CDATA[LLU Medical Center-Murrieta receives full accreditation for weight loss surgery ]]> Kathryn Stiles Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta has received notification from the American College of Surgeons granting full approval as a Level-2 accredited bariatric center.

This designation follows extensive preparation and education of staff; investment in supplies and equipment; patient education and support; and successful surgery outcomes.

“We are very pleased to reach this important milestone so early in our growth as a hospital,” states LLUMC-Murrieta CEO Rick Rawson, MBA. “Weight-loss surgery is an important service line that we believe helps us fulfill our mission to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ. Patients who receive this life-saving procedure can see their diabetes reversed and their risk of heart disease and cancer dramatically decline.”

The bariatric surgery program at LLUMC-Murrieta began in April of 2012; since then 98 patients have been treated with sleeve gastrectomy, gastric banding, or gastric bypass surgeries. These procedures are done with comprehensive medically supervised weight loss support that is customized to each patient. Patients receive pre-operative and post-operative education, support, and classes.

David Suh, MD, who serves as medical director of the bariatric surgery program at Murrieta, has helped to lead the program’s development.

“This achievement speaks to the dedication and quality of the employees at LLUMC-Murrieta,” he says. “I congratulate this team; they are so dedicated to excellence.”

LLUMC-Murrieta opened on April 15, 2011, and since then has rapidly grown its services to include providing the first and only interventional cardiology program in its area.

This bariatric Level-2 accreditation is a significant step for the hospital,” says Senior VP for Clinical Operations Liz Dickinson, MPH, “as we strive to build comprehensive service lines that achieve the highest levels in standards of care for our patients.” 

]]>
Thu, 18 Jul 2013 11:08:15 -0700
4264:11366 <![CDATA[Recent computer viruses highlight importance of avoiding suspicious e-mails]]> Recently several systems on campus have become infected with a virus known as "ransom ware." 

This is a virus that threatens PCs and is usually activated by responding to e-mails that state something such as "Send us money and we will fix the problem." Another version, claiming to be from the FBI or CIA, says that child pornography has been found on someone’s computer—and that paying a fine will resolve the matter out of court. 

Sometimes these e-mails are annoying but harmless, while other times they hurt or delete data from computer systems.

Here are tips to avoid such infections:

  • Only open e-mail attachments from trusted people whom you are expecting to contact you. Many fraudulent messages are forged to appear as coming from someone you know. If you are not sure, contact the sender via another means to verify that they intended to send the file to you.
  • Only click links in e-mails from people you know. E-mails that contain nothing but a Web link are particularly dangerous.
  • Be especially careful of e-mails from people you know but who haven't corresponded recently.
  • Information systems staff will never ask you to verify your account or provide your password. If you get an e-mail claiming to be from the system administrator or information systems staff asking to validate your account, ask for help using the contact information below before taking any action.
  • If you believe your system has become infected with a virus, immediately shut it down. Only restart the system when instructed to by information systems support staff.

Medical Center employees: Ext. 48889

University employees: Ext. 48611 or lluhelpdesk@llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 18 Jul 2013 11:00:32 -0700
4264:11364 <![CDATA[LLU reading, literacy camp still has spaces available]]> The School of Allied Health Professions department of communication sciences and disorders is holding an intensive phonological awareness and literacy camp July 22 through Aug. 2.

The program is designed for incoming kindergarten through third-grade students who are either having difficulty beginning reading or who are at-risk for difficulty beginning reading.

Participants will have fun while focusing on the building blocks of reading: literature awareness, syllable awareness, rhyme awareness, segmenting, and blending.

Individual speech and language services may also be available.

Note that only the afternoon session has spaces available.

The cost is $50 for the two-week-long camp. Register online at regonline.com/palcamp.

]]>
Thu, 18 Jul 2013 10:55:46 -0700
4264:11360 <![CDATA[PossAbilities member earns spot on national canoe/kayak team]]> Herbert Atienza A member of Loma Linda University Team PossAbilities has secured a spot on the USA canoe/kayak national team and will represent the country at the ParaSprint World Championships in Duisburg, Germany, next month.

Greg Crouse, 44, of Fullerton—a PossAbilities member for the last four years who is on track to compete in the 2016 Paralympics as part of PossAbilities’ “Road to Rio” program—won his qualifying event to make it to the team. 

The 2013 National Team Trials were held this month in Lake Placid, New York, on the flat waters of Mirror Lake. Mr. Crouse competed alongside fellow paddlers, both juniors and seniors, and won his 200-meter event with a time of 58.07 seconds, which is 2.01 seconds faster than his qualifying time last year.

The victory marks the third time that Mr. Crouse will represent the United States at the World Championships, out of four attempts at making the team.

“I am just honored and proud to be able to serve the United States in this capacity,” says Mr. Crouse, a retired Army veteran who, in 1988, lost his left leg after a drunk driver struck him while he was walking.

He joined PossAbilities after hearing about the organization from a friend, and he credits the organization for helping and motivating him to become an elite athlete. 

PossAbilities is a community outreach program developed by Loma Linda University Medical Center East Campus and supported by founding partner San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. PossAbilities’ goal is to offer physically challenged people a sense of community by offering activities and practical help.

The group has sponsored Mr. Crouse in his athletic pursuits and provided him with a V-1 Rudderless canoe, which allowed him to maximize his training and compete in more races. He is also part of the organization’s “Road to Rio” program, which supports athletes who have the potential to compete in the 2016 Paralympics in Rio de Janeiro. To learn more about the “Road to Rio,” go to www.teampossabilities.org/paralympic-program.

“PossAbilities has allowed me to be the best that I can be,” Mr. Crouse says.

]]>
Thu, 18 Jul 2013 10:51:55 -0700
4264:11302 <![CDATA[Notes from the President - July 2013]]> Richard Hart, MD, DrPH

When university professors meet schoolteachers

Debbie Merritt expressed the thoughts of many when she said:

It has been an unbelievable blessing to be here at Loma Linda University this week. The leaders of EXSEED have done an excellent job of lining up presenters and workshop leaders with outstanding qualifications to inspire and motivate us. They have also been so supportive and attentive throughout the week. We have been challenged to go home and utilize the methods and strategies to develop critical thinking and mastery learning in our students.”

Sixty-eight K-12 educators came from across North America, spending a week at Loma Linda University for an experience they would never forget. They discussed critical thinking strategies, educational techniques, and new technologies for learning. For two of those days, they were joined by additional colleagues, including local high school teachers, in 23 workshops, exploring innovative techniques for connecting young minds with the magic of science. Faculty also came from our Adventist colleges and universities, along with Loma Linda teachers and researchers.

Thank you, thank you,” said Lucille Nelson from Kirkland, Washington. “I have been enormously blessed by the spiritual nature of this conference. The presenters are all distinguished scientists with a wealth of knowledge, but they are able to share with lay people like me in a way that is not only understandable, but thoroughly connected to the Source of all knowledge and wisdom … I will be forever grateful that I was given this opportunity, and I think I will be a better teacher because of it. I hope to inspire my students with a passion for learning and a passion for God.”

“The EXSEED conference has been a huge boost to my creative juices, and when I return to Virginia I am looking forward to implementing a number of ideas that I have learned this week into next year’s lesson plans,” said Gordon Miller.

This was our third summer for EXSEED—EXcellence in Science Experiential EDucation. Begun out of concern for science teachers in local church academies, it has grown this year to include teachers from across the country, including our local San Bernardino high school teachers. This has become another step in our growing collaboration with the San Bernardino City Unified School District.

Brian Willemse, the health academy coordinator at Indian Springs High School in San Bernardino said, Thank you so much for giving us the opportunity to be a part of your conference. The teachers from our district were amazed at all of the tools and strategies that they got from their experiences. I found it invaluable myself, and will be taking some great strategies back to my students. I cannot underscore enough how excited I am to be partnering with your institution. I had an opportunity to speak with Dr. J.C. Belliard and Dr. Willie Davis today, and it seems that everyone is willing and excited to help our students succeed. I cannot wait to launch this program with you guys!”

So what is an academic health sciences university, focused on advanced research with master’s and doctoral students, doing with elementary, middle and high school teachers? Why do we invest time and energy in this endeavor we call EXSEED? From the many favorable comments by the participants, it seems clear that Loma Linda has struck a chord that resonates with many. Being invited as a teacher from a small rural or inner city school to join Loma Linda University professors in exploring teaching strategies for their students is considered an opportunity beyond compare. The social capital gained by sharing experiences like this with others is both stimulating and enduring.

There are two arguments that can be made why Loma Linda should do this. First, we are reinforcing a system of education that has served both the private and public sectors well, but is struggling to reinvent itself. We need that system to remain strong. The second argument is more self-serving. It has now been reported that if a student is not strong in the sciences by the sixth grade, he or she will not be able to compete for advanced health professional degrees. So we are strengthening our pipeline—an educational strategy for developing both minds and characters that are essential for producing quality health professionals. These are the young people our recruitment teams are looking for across the country.

Some kudos are appropriate in an endeavor like this that requires effort above and beyond. Ron Carter, our provost, and Marilyn Eggers, our director of educational effectiveness, have made this a personal mission. Their educational backgrounds and passion for students were clearly evident. Melanie Stevens provided essential support for the entire conference. We are also delighted to add Doug Havens to this group. His long background in education, and particular passion for science teaching, will keep the ideas and energy from EXSEED flowing throughout the year via a resource-rich website and direct communication.

There have been several major donors who have made EXSEED possible. We are indebted to each of them. In particular, I want to thank a couple who have focused on Christian education for years. Tom and Vi Zapara have provided both emotional and financial stimulation to call out the best in each of us concerned about our kids and the schools that educate them. The Zaparas have taken the wealth from two companies they started and used it to enable change. For years, the Zapara Teaching Awards have set standards for our educators. More recently, major gifts to both Loma Linda and La Sierra University have made a permanent impact on those institutions. Tom has now turned 90, with Vi not far behind, yet they remain active in supporting activities like EXSEED. Thank you, Tom and Vi, for the legacy you have given all of us to emulate.

]]>
Thu, 11 Jul 2013 12:34:18 -0700
4264:11295 <![CDATA[Fire-extinguisher training schedule released for third quarter]]> Hands-on fire extinguisher training is required for all employees every three years. Employees who delay in completing this course may see it reflected in their annual performance evaluation.

The third-quarter training schedule is available on the environmental health & safety website at http://vip.mc.llumc.edu/vip/Departments/LLUHS-Departments/Environmental-Health-and-Safety/Training/Index.page. Clicking on the “Fire Extinguisher Training Schedule & Registration” link will take employees directly to the OWL Portal, where they can choose and register for a class.

Those with questions may call the office of environmental health and safety at extension 14019.

Fire extinguisher training update reports can be requested by e-mailing EHS@llu.edu. Include the appropriate cost center or ID number.

Certificates of completion may be printed from the OWL Portal.

]]>
Thu, 11 Jul 2013 11:52:30 -0700
4264:11288 <![CDATA[Institution-wide safety reports due soon]]> In assisting departments to be better prepared for regulatory agency inspections, the office of environmental health & safety would like to remind department heads/managers that they are responsible for identifying safety issues and documenting corrections for their areas.

Third-quarter reports must be filled out and filed within each department by July 22 to prepare for coming inspections.

Hospital and clinical department heads should fill out the environment of care self-tour form, while heads of departments in the University and Shared Services need to complete a safety inspection form. Both documents may be downloaded below.

These audit forms give the departments opportunity to locate and actively correct any issues to prepare for regulatory agency inspections and University fire inspections. The completed forms are for each department’s records and are not to be sent to the office of environmental health & safety.

For questions about safety inspection forms, call Jhobanny “Gio” Candray at extension 58154, and for questions about the environment of care self-audit form, call Chuck Saenz at extension 58164.

For requesting self-tour form corrections and other issues, use the following contact information or clickable links:

•  General EOC, emergency management, HazMat, and fire safety concerns: EH&S complaint form

•  Utilities/repair concerns: Medical Center engineering work-order request or campus engineering repair request

• Housekeeping concerns: E-mail environmentalservices@llu.edu.

•  Security concerns: E-mail SecurityMC@llu.edu or dial extension 44320.

• Medical equipment concerns: Clinical engineering medical equipment service request form

]]>
Thu, 11 Jul 2013 11:42:03 -0700
4264:11286 <![CDATA[Congressman Mark Takano visits Loma Linda University Health]]> Briana Pastorino U.S. Congressman Mark Takano from California’s 41st District (Riverside) visited Loma Linda University Health on Friday, July 5.

Congressman Takano toured the James M. Slater, MD, Proton Treatment and Research Center, and met with Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH, president of LLU Health. The Riverside native reports enjoying his tour and reveals he learned a lot about the health system.

“Dr. Hart explained the importance of federal funding in support of graduate medical education and federally qualified health centers,” Mr. Takano says. “I also gained an understanding of the importance of Loma Linda University School of Medicine to the Inland Empire.”

Dr. Hart says, “This was an opportunity for Loma Linda University Health to share with the Congressman how we collaborate with the Jerry L. Pettis Memorial Veterans Medical Center in caring for our local veterans and the role Loma Linda plays in graduate medical education in this area.”

]]>
Thu, 11 Jul 2013 11:37:49 -0700
4264:11284 <![CDATA[Advertising campaign kicks off for Loma Linda University Health]]> Heather Valentine By now, all employees should have received a branding booklet in the mail explaining the new Loma Linda University Health advertising campaign. The goal of this campaign is to raise awareness of Loma Linda University Health on a local and national level.

The first phase of the advertising campaign—announcing our new name to the community—is in full swing. Those who drive the local freeways or read area newspapers may have seen the new billboards and print advertisements already in rotation.

In the upcoming months, television and radio commercials will also begin. Employees are encouraged to stay tuned as the campaign enters its next phase and continues to tell the Loma Linda University Health story to the world.

]]>
Thu, 11 Jul 2013 11:31:50 -0700
4264:11275 <![CDATA[Featured video - Student trip to Haiti]]> Advancement Films ]]> Students from the School of Allied Health Professions at Loma Linda University travel to Haiti to put their education into practice.

]]>
Thu, 11 Jul 2013 10:37:11 -0700
4264:11098 <![CDATA[Housekeeping staff gets top training at Medical Simulation Center]]> Heather Reifsnyder Because a cleaned and disinfected hospital equates to safer patients, the department of environmental services at LLU Medical Center has elevated its annual training of housekeeping staff to a new level in the health care field.

This year’s training took place at the LLU Medical Simulation Center—a fully outfitted mini-hospital in which students and staff practice with high-tech manikins—where the controlled environment allowed for more comprehensive learning than hectic on-the-floor training.

“We are leading the way in health care by training in this manner,” says Kelvin Moore, director of environmental services, LLU Medical Center. “This environment encourages more questions to be asked and allows us to cover issues that may not have arisen on floor training.”

Having a Medical Simulation Center on campus is noteworthy in itself, according to Jesse Mock, MA, vice president for patient engagement at LLU Medical Center. “Only the best institutions have that distinction, and we are fortunate to be one of them,” he says.

“We are committed to innovatively using our Medical Simulation Center to ensure we offer the finest patient care at every level,” Mr. Mock adds.

During June, 162 housekeepers rotated through training stations at the center, each covering procedures for different areas of a hospital including labor and delivery, ICU, operating rooms, and patient rooms.

Other stations were devoted to topics such as hand hygiene, waste management, and interim life-saving measures that may be necessary during a patient evacuation or disaster.

“Our housekeepers now better understand not only the manual aspects of their jobs but the way they can best contribute to world-class patient care on the floors,” Mr. Moore summarizes. “Not just anyone can do this job.”

Mr. Mock seconds that opinion:

“Our environmental services team has a key role in reducing and eliminating hospital-acquired hazards such as infection, slips and falls, and pressure ulcers. Using the Simulation Center to annually train our staff provides a true-to-life experience that is structured for adult learners. I believe this resource greatly assists us to achieve our goal of world-class patient and staff safety.”

Each employee also left the training with a new burgundy-colored uniform, which is a more stately update to the previous look. 

]]>
Thu, 27 Jun 2013 11:06:54 -0700
4264:11096 <![CDATA[Free 66ers game for all employees, students, and volunteers ]]> Kelly Phipps Employees, students, and volunteers are invited to cheer on the 66ers against the Lancaster Jethawks at the annual All Star Appreciation Day at the Inland Empire 66ers Stadium on Wednesday, July 17, at 7:00 p.m. The evening is organized exclusively for members of the Loma Linda University Health family.

To receive up to six admission tickets, employees should bring their Loma Linda University Health ID badge to the stadium box office from now through July 17 (280 South E Street, San Bernardino, CA  92401) Monday through Friday 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

During the game, a number of prizes will be handed out including the grand prize—a Hawaiian vacation. The raffle tickets will be mailed directly to people’s homes. Night shift employees scheduled to work that evening should ask their manager to contact the Customer Call Center at 1-877-LLUMC-4U and request a night-shift raffle ticket. To be entered, these tickets can be intercampus mailed to the Department of Marketing, MVP 165, or a representative can bring the tickets to the stadium.  

Loma Linda University Health’s dedication to encourage community wellness extends to people’s work, home lives, and recreation. Enjoying a baseball game with friends and family is another small way we encourage you to LIVE IT!

]]>
Thu, 27 Jun 2013 11:02:38 -0700
4264:11093 <![CDATA[Six-year-old philanthropist gathers 33,000 stickers for kids at LLU Children's Hospital]]> Briana Pastorino A former Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital patient collected more than 33,000 stickers for current patients at the hospital as part of a class service project. Six-year-old Landon Harper delivered the stickers he received from friends, family, classmates, and even strangers to the hospital on June 18.

Landon brought stickers of every shape, size, color, and character to make kids at the hospital feel better. “Kids are afraid of what doctors are going to do or if they are going to get a shot,” Landon says. “Now they can get a sticker after they see the doctor.”

“We greatly appreciate this act of kindness and gratitude that Landon has bestowed to the patients here,” says Zareh Sarrafian, MBA, administrator of Children’s Hospital. “Knowing firsthand what it’s like to be a patient here himself, he knows that something as simple as a sticker can make a patient’s day just a little bit better. He is a great example to his peers.”

As an infant, Landon was diagnosed with plagiocephaly—a skull deformation. He had to wear a custom helmet 23 hours a day that gently reshaped his skull over the course of seven months, and he also underwent physical therapy to strengthen his neck muscles.

“My head was getting huger and huger,” Landon recalls from stories his parents told him. “I had to wear a helmet for the rest of my baby life!”

Now, the energetic first grader is giving back to the hospital that helped him. Every year, Inland Leaders Charter School in Yucaipa challenges students to an individual service project. Landon decided he wanted to do a project that gave back to the kids at LLU Children’s Hospital and, with the help of his mom, came up with the idea of collecting stickers to brighten the days of patients at the hospital that treated him. He called his service project “Landon’s Stickers for Kids.”

“In addition to just asking close friends and family, we also put it on Facebook, and it was shared multiple times by various users,” says Landon’s mom, Tierra. “We collected stickers for two weeks, and we were getting stickers from people we didn’t even know.”

Landon admits he “checked the mail every day and ripped the mail open to get the stickers.” His mom is very proud of her son, and his teacher is too. Landon received a leadership award for service for the project.

]]>
Thu, 27 Jun 2013 10:58:02 -0700
4264:11090 <![CDATA[Healthy competition allows employees to step up their wellness]]> Kelly Phipps Step It Up, a two-month pedometer competition that rotates between LLU Health entities, allows employees to form teams of four and contend for prizes based on number of steps per team. Employees wear pedometers and record their daily steps online.

“This is a fun way for departments to get healthy together,” says Olivia Moses, DrPH, administrator of the Living Whole Employee Wellness Program. “Our goal is for employees to walk an average of 10,000 steps per day.”

A competition for University employees ran from February to April and had 750 participants. The average number of daily steps per person was 8,423, and the total steps of all participants reached 366,973,931. The impact was seen not only in the number of steps, but in number of pounds. University employees who lost weight lost an average of eight pounds. Nine employees lost 20 pounds or more.

“We get so busy we don’t make time to take care of ourselves,” explains Dr. Moses. “We’ve seen offices change their very culture—people now go walking during breaks instead of sitting for lunch. The University’s participation in the competition and how many steps our employees achieved exemplifies LLU Health’s Live It campaign.”

Watch for more information on the upcoming August competition for University Health Care employees.  For more information on the Step It Up competition or the Living Whole Employee Wellness Program, e-mail livingwhole@llu.edu

 

]]>
Thu, 27 Jun 2013 10:45:03 -0700
4264:11083 <![CDATA[LLU neuroscientist awarded nearly $2 million to research reducing stroke damage]]> James Ponder A researcher from Loma Linda University School of Medicine recently learned that the National Institutes of Health (NIH) approved his application for a $1.9 million grant to develop a promising treatment for a deadly form of stroke.

John H. Zhang, MD, PhD, professor of neuroscience and physiology and director of the Zhang Neuroscience Research Laboratories at LLU School of Medicine, says the grant will address subarachnoid hemorrhage, the deadliest form of stroke, by developing a new nasal spray to deliver a synthetic form of Osteopontin, a human gene protein, to the site of the injury.

Dr. Zhang explains that there are two main types of stroke—ischemia and hemorrhage. In lay terms, ischemia refers to blood clots and hemorrhage refers to the bleeding that occurs when a blood vessel ruptures.

“Ischemia accounts for approximately 80 percent of all strokes,” he says. “Hemorrhagic stroke accounts for the remaining 20 percent.”

Hemorrhagic stroke is further divided into two categories: intracerebral and subarachnoid. Dr. Zhang and his colleagues are investigating the second variety. Subarachnoid hemorrhage refers to bleeding in the protective membranes surrounding the brain.

“Subarachnoid hemorrhage affects relatively younger females,” he observes. “Women get it more often than men at a ratio of about two to one in many countries, most often in the range of 20 to 50 years of age. It is an extremely deadly type of stroke.”

Dr. Zhang points out that approximately 15 percent of people who experience a subarachnoid hemorrhage die before reaching the hospital, and 50 percent die in the first 30 days after the initial incident. He says that in the case of ischemia, fewer than 10 percent die.

“Basically, subarachnoid hemorrhage is caused by a small aneurysm, a defect in a blood vessel in the brain, that ruptures for some reason,” he notes. The main symptom people report is an extreme headache. “People say it’s the worst headache of their lives.”

Currently, there are two main forms of treatment for subarachnoid stroke. The first, the one Dr. Zhang calls “conservative treatment,” involves maintaining the vital signs with no surgical intervention. “That is prescribed for patients in poor health or who are very old,” he says.

The second type of treatment is surgery, and once again, there are two options available to physicians: clipping and coiling. 

“Clipping involves clipping off the neck of the aneurysm to prevent further bleeding,” he says. “But in the last five years, endovascular coiling has become more common. It involves inserting a catheter into the patient’s brain through the femoral artery and inserting small coils into the site of the aneurysm.”

The coils plug the aneurysm to prevent it from re-bleeding. However, neither the clipping nor the coiling procedures are able to reduce brain injury in the aftermath of treatment. As a result, the overall mortality and morbidity remain high even with these advanced procedures.

The new NIH grant funds a continuation of a previous investigation conducted by Dr. Zhang and his associates. That first study identified an effective treatment to reduce the early phase of brain injury that will not be helped with surgical procedures. That study was conducted using a rodent model of subarachnoid hemorrhage. The second study aims to develop it into a pre-clinical procedure that will save human lives.

“Our new grant is a renewal of the five-year study we just completed,” he explains.

The treatment identified by the first study was the administration of the drug Osteopontin to the cerebral ventricular space. Dr. Zhang observes that the brain produces small amounts of the protein found in the drug, but in quantities too small to help, and that Osteopontin is proven effective in experimental studies of neonatal and other forms of brain injury.

“When we inject it directly into cerebral ventricles as a treatment,” he notes, “Osteopontin is very effective. In experimental models, it was found to reduce cell death, protect the blood-brain barrier, reduce brain edema, or swelling, and improve neurological functions.”

However, there is a problem with administering the synthesized version of the drug to the trouble spot in the brain.

“The difficulty,” he explains, “is that in order to deliver the drug to the site of the hemorrhage, we have to open the skull and stick a needle into the brain. There aren’t many people willing to submit to that.”

Fortunately, Dr. Zhang and his team have already found a solution.

“In the next five years, we’ll be exploring a method of delivering Osteopontin as a nasal spray or nose drops,” he reveals. “With the nasal application, we can bypass the blood-brain barrier and get straight into the brain. It will be absorbed into the frontal lobe, and from there, into the cerebrospinal fluid to protect the brain. The nasal passage bypasses the blood-brain barrier. That’s why nose region infections are so dangerous. They can go right to the brain.”

Dr. Zhang is hopeful the study will result in a rapidly adaptable clinical protocol.

“We’re trying to be as translational as possible,” he concludes, using a term that refers to laboratory findings that translate directly into effective clinical treatments and breakthroughs.

“Although the nasal admission of Osteopontin has been used for other conditions, we are the first to propose that it be employed as a treatment for subarachnoid hemorrhage.”

]]>
Thu, 27 Jun 2013 10:30:04 -0700
4264:11053 <![CDATA[Featured patient video - 'I felt young again']]> Advancement Films ]]> Sharon de Metz’s back problems had reached a point where she could no longer walk. After undergoing surgery at LLU Medical Center–East Campus, she is back on her feet. “This is the second time that Loma Linda has saved my life—and my quality of life,” she says.

]]>
Wed, 26 Jun 2013 05:31:53 -0700
4264:10898 <![CDATA[NOW is step in the right direction of bridging gap in LLUH-wide communication. ]]> Kelly Phipps The survey on the effectiveness of News of the Week received 115 responses and valuable insight through open-ended comments.

Overall, readers who took the survey believe News of the Week is a useful tool in increasing awareness and communication across all entities of Loma Linda University Health.

While there were a wide variety of responses, the comments are helping the editors gauge institutional opinion on what works and what doesn’t in News of the Week. Overall, respondents spoke favorably of the content of NOW.

Readers report that event information is the most popular content type. Suggestions for improvement included adding more news from off-campus entities (East Campus, Behavioral Medicine Center, Heart and Surgical Hospital, Murrieta) and increasing stories about students and employees. 

The attached charts provide a breakdown of responses to the individual questions. 

]]>
Thu, 20 Jun 2013 12:01:05 -0700
4264:10897 <![CDATA[Notes from the President - June 2013]]> Richard Hart, MD, DrPH

IN THIS ISSUE
Graduation reflections

It is that time of year when I shake a lot of hands. I’m not sure where that custom came from, but it is well accepted in many cultures of the world as a way to connect two individuals. And we interpret much about the relationship by that simple handshake. Is it strong? too brief? tentative? sweaty? lingering? In some cultures we continue to hold hands as we talk, while in others we quickly move to other forms of communication.

Our tradition here at Loma Linda has been for the president to shake each graduate’s hand after he or she receives his or her diploma. We have now completed both graduation weekends, the first celebrating Dentistry, Medicine, and Pharmacy, and the second for Behavioral Health, Religion, Nursing, Public Health, and Allied Health Professions. By having a separate commencement ceremony for each school, we can individually call graduates by name and recognize them as they come forward to receive their diploma. Despite the long lines, I enjoy this time immensely. Where else can you look so clearly at the future, directly into each of their eyes? I don’t get a chance to know most of our students personally, but that simple handshake, occasional hug, and meeting of the eyes tell much.

I wonder why they came here, to Loma Linda? What motivated them to apply? What did the admissions committee think? Why were they given the opportunity to study here at Loma Linda when others were not? How did they find our campus—friendly and accepting or difficult to break into? Did they participate in the many service-learning programs, or primarily stick to their studies? Were they part of the 10 percent who found a room in our residence halls, or one of the many who lived in the community or drove in each day?

And now what will happen to them? Are they ready for the challenges that will confront them? Do they have a job already? How far in debt are they? Have they found the love of their lives yet? So many issues to deal with, and it never seems to end. Have we done our best to prepare each graduate for his or her future? The question is on our minds every day. What a responsibility a Christian university plays in the lives of those who walk our halls, sit in our classrooms, and participate in our activities.

Loma Linda University takes this opportunity—this responsibility—very seriously. Our students are a diverse lot, coming from some 90 countries around the world. Actually, that international group is a small percentage of the total, since most of our students still come from the U.S., particularly California. Some of our programs attract candidates from across the country, while others are more regional. With 4,650 students last year and even more expected this fall, we have an incredible opportunity to share our particular perspective about God and His role on this earth. Because we are one of the very few Christian academic health science centers left in the country, and apparently the only one that openly stands on the twin shoulders of faith and science, we are attractive to many Christian young people who share our commitment to Christ’s values and call to service.

As you would expect on an academic campus, we assess our students regularly. Have they learned what they need for their careers? Have our various services been helpful and easy to access? Have our students participated in our Mission-Focused Learning (MFL) activities—the many community and global projects that we believe help shape characters and force each student to confront the real issues in our world today? MFL, as we refer to it, is our way of exposing our students to the real issues in education, preparing them with the values and character they need in life. I frequently tell the students “Who you are is more important than what you know.” Helping them establish their core values, develop professional practice patterns, and learn about relationships, both with each other and with God, are major goals of education. We pray regularly that we are achieving that goal—with each of our graduates leaving this place with an understanding and commitment to serve others that would make our Founders proud, and even more importantly will exemplify their highest calling in life.

Many students value their time here and often express their thanks in different ways. I received an e-mail this week from one of our recent graduates from physical therapy. In it, she writes:

Dr. Hart,

During this past week of graduation celebrations, I sit here and reflect. I sit here and reflect on God's plans for us … to prosper us and give us a hope (Jeremiah 29:11).

When I applied to physical therapy school, my "plan" was to continue my goals of pursuing education; my "plan" was to better myself as a person and to have a successful career. I began my faith walk over five years ago, always wanting to grow in Christ, but when applying to physical therapy school I was not aware that growing so much in my faith was a part of His plan.

As I sit here and reflect, I realize that coming to Loma Linda has provided me with an awesome foundation to become a physical therapist, but even more, I can see that God was continually working behind the scenes. The Lord has strengthened me as a person, as a wife, as a friend, as a student, as a health care provider, BUT most importantly as a Christian.

I hit some of my lowest lows while attending Loma Linda University. I began the program shortly after losing my father, as well as reestablishing my relationship with my husband. I left home to pursue a career in physical therapy, but what I got was so much more!

My faith has blossomed, my love for Jesus overflows, and I feel truly blessed to be a part of the Loma Linda family. Everyone I encountered at Loma Linda has been supportive and encouraging, from the deans of Lindsay Hall who would sit and pray with me in the middle of the night, to all the faculty of the DPT program who urged me along.

Thank you so much for this amazing place that I feel comfortable calling my home away from home, and thank you for the opportunity awhile back to share my story. I can see now that it was all part of God's plan. All to His Glory!

Sincerely,

Beth Brohammer
DPT class of 2013

Farewell to a friend and colleague

In closing, I want to thank my friend and colleague Dustin Jones for editing and coordinating Notes from the President since their beginning. Dustin is leaving us to move to the Big Sky Country (Montana), closer to his wife’s parents, and near one of my favorite spots on God’s earth—Glacier National Park. He will be missed.

Sincerely,

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President, Loma Linda University Health

 

Office of the President, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350

Copyright © 2013 by Loma Linda University

llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 20 Jun 2013 11:40:47 -0700
4264:10884 <![CDATA['Loma Linda 360' wins five Emmy Awards]]> The National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences awarded “Loma Linda 360” five Emmys—the highest award in the television industry.

Featuring stories of hope and courage, Loma Linda University Health’s TV show portrays the resilience of humankind and celebrates life. Produced by Advancement Films, the show won Emmys in multiple categories at the 39th Annual Pacific Southwest Emmy Awards on June 15. 

The winning shows

“Loma Linda 360: Beating Cancer” won an Emmy Award in the magazine program/special category. The first episode of season four, it gives viewers an inside look at the journey of cancer patients, cutting-edge proton therapy, and the celebration of survival at the annual Believe Walk event.
 
In the health/science program category, the Academy awarded “Loma Linda 360: Heart to Heart.” In this episode, the Escarcega family’s worst nightmare becomes a harrowing reality. Their newborn baby is slowly dying from congenital heart disease. Doctors tell them it’s the beginning of the end … unless a heart becomes available for transplant surgery. Will Baby David receive a heart in time? “Heart to Heart” follows Baby David’s journey and reflects on the pioneering efforts of infant heart transplantation with Baby Fae.

“End It Now: A Look Into Preventing Child Abuse” won in the public/current/community affairs category. This episode gives viewers an inside look at child abuse and the dramatic effect it has on people’s lives as they mature into adulthood.

In the human interest category, the Academy awarded the story “Who I Am.” Words can’t describe how traumatic life is after a disabling injury. This film features four PossAbilities members as they show how one’s identity isn’t about physical capabilities, but about who you are on the inside.
 
“Can You See My Pain” won the Emmy Award in the informational/instructional category. About one in five teens cuts or self-injures his or her body. This episode tells the story of three young adolescents who strive to live life without hurting themselves and raises awareness about this notorious coping mechanism.


Third year in a row

This is the show’s third year to win Emmy Awards. The last season saw Emmy wins in four categories, and season two swept its categories by taking home three Emmy Awards.

Season four of “Loma Linda 360” aired last year on the PBS affiliate KVCR and KVCR-DC as well as the CBS and ABC affiliates in the Palm Springs area. It is currently airing on Hope Channel and Loma Linda Broadcasting Network, and can be viewed online at llu.edu/360, www.youtube.com/user/LLUHealth, and vimeo.com/channels/lomalinda360.

Advancement Films is currently in production on a new TV show called “Life on the Line” that is being planned for release on PBS stations nationally.

]]>
Thu, 20 Jun 2013 09:59:33 -0700
4264:10882 <![CDATA[Reflection: Liberating time from the cage of schedule]]> Wil Alexander Recently I was delightfully surprised to be feted at a most resplendent setting in Drayson Center. Of course I was not alone, but it seemed so when my name was called and I was given a gold watch to mark 40 years of most privileged service at our blessed university! Just prior to this golden gala, I was given a book by Dr. Richard Swenson with the meaningful title A Minute of Margin. In a wee essay that takes only a “moment” to read, “Time and the Inventor of Time,” Dr. Swenson stirs up our time-bound minds thusly:

"Do you think Jesus would have carried a pocket calendar? Would He have consulted it before making commitments? Would He have bypassed the leper because His calendar said He was late for the Nazareth banquet?

Do you think Jesus would have worn a wristwatch? What would have been His reaction if the temple service extended past noon? .... Would He have driven out the clock watchers along with the money changers?

Do you think Jesus would have carried a beeper? .... Can you imagine Him being paged out of the Last Supper?

The clock and Christ are not close friends. Imagine what Christ thinks of us now that we are so locked into schedules that we have locked ourselves out of the Sermon on the Mount: It is hardly possible to walk the second mile without offending one’s pocket calendar. We jump at the alarm of a Seiko (the brand of my new gold watch!) but sleep through the call of the Almighty.

The example of Christ, of course, has a cultural context to consider. Yet beyond this context is a much deeper message: Jesus was not about to permit Himself to be tyrannized by time. What about us?"

Paul tells us: Be very careful how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every moment, every opportunity. “There is always time enough in a day to do God’s will.” 

 ***

Dr. Alexander is the founding director, LLU Center for Spiritual Life & Wholeness, and professor of family medicine at LLU School of Medicine. His column, “Innerweave: The Wholeness Story,” has appeared for many years in Today, the campus newspaper of Loma Linda University Health.  

]]>
Thu, 20 Jun 2013 09:56:24 -0700
4264:10855 <![CDATA[Commencement photos: celebration of education ]]> Loma Linda University held its second and final round of graduation ceremonies Sunday, June 16, awarding diplomas to graduates of the Schools of Behavioral Health, Nursing, Religion, Public Health, and Allied Health Professions. These photos capture a few of those happy moments. 

]]>
Thu, 20 Jun 2013 09:42:26 -0700
4264:10850 <![CDATA[Featured video: Kids ROCK]]> Advancement Films ]]> Students from Loma Linda University volunteer at Kids ROCK, a program designed to create a positive atmosphere for children in San Bernardino by giving them fun and constructive activities, teaching them about Jesus, and showing them love. 

]]>
Wed, 19 Jun 2013 05:20:41 -0700
4264:10758 <![CDATA[Healing Hands program provides patients opportunity to give back]]> Roger Hadley, MD, chief of staff, LLU Medical Center, and dean of the School of Medicine, has been named founding medical director for Healing Hands. Healing Hands is a grateful patient program to connect with patients who want to change the world by giving back to Loma Linda University Health. In addition to his other responsibilities, Dr. Hadley has committed to leading the way as Loma Linda University Health develops this new program.

“I am thrilled that LLUH is establishing this critical program,” says Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health. “This is certainly best practice around the country. We are confident this will strengthen our patient experience and expand opportunities for grateful patients and families who have a desire to give and make a difference for other lives to be touched though our care.”

When a patient receives care at LLUH, he or she is often inspired to give back. From physicians and nurses to the staff at the front desk, each team member often goes the extra mile to create an exceptional experience. When the patient’s desire to give back meets the institutional need for philanthropic support to expand and grow, the Healing Hands program will be there to help make the biggest impact. Recently, an extraordinary experience at LLUH inspired a gift of $500,000 because of the excellent care a patient received.

“This program will allow patients and families to tangibly get involved in saving and changing lives we touch here at LLUH every day,” says Rachelle Bussell, CFRE, senior vice president for advancement. “For many, giving can be an important part of healing.”

Pauline Deeb is the director of Healing Hands, appointed in March of 2013. She has been instrumental in developing the program from its inception, alongside Dr. Hadley. She will be working closely with physicians and health care providers to support friends of LLUH, those who have given generously to support the institution and will help it grow in the future. Lisa Wright, hired April 2013, is the new executive director of philanthropy, and will be devoting time to the management of Healing Hands. Additionally Nicole Orr, senior development officer for the School of Allied Health Professions, will be key in the development and growth of the program across the LLUH system.

The success of Healing Hands first and foremost depends on the excellent care provided to patients. Next, it depends on all involved to communicate effectively and implement best practices for grateful patient programs. Physicians and caregivers are invited to attend training provided by Advancement Resources on August 12 and 13.

More information on this special training will be announced in the coming months. Be on the lookout for physician referral cards for patients who express interest in giving back, and brochures in departments that show patients and families how to recognize caregivers through giving.

“We look forward to successfully implementing Healing Hands, and the opportunity this provides for LLUH to grow,” says Ms. Deeb.

Questions about the Healing Hands program should be directed to (909) 558-4438.

]]>
Thu, 13 Jun 2013 01:35:32 -0700
4264:10754 <![CDATA[Featured video - Sea Turtle Protector]]> Advancement Films ]]> All sea turtles are listed as either endangered or threatened. Watch the effort undertaken by LLU professor Stephen Dunbar, PhD, to try and not only protect the turtles, but also empower the local population.

]]>
Thu, 13 Jun 2013 11:23:22 -0700
4264:10753 <![CDATA[What is your opinion of News of the Week? Please take our survey. ]]> It may feel like a daunting task to know what's happening across LLU Health's six hospitals and eight schools. Whether you're a student or employee, News of the Week was created to keep you connected. That's why we want to improve it. Please help us better serve your needs by filling out this short survey about News of the Week.

https://llu.us.qualtrics.com/SE/?SID=SV_etXbRaK9iAuWZvf

]]>
Thu, 13 Jun 2013 10:49:55 -0700
4264:10742 <![CDATA[Grand opening held for new certified Loma Linda Farmer's Market]]> Nancy Yuen Tuesday, June 11, marked the grand opening of the Loma Linda Farmer’s Market Night. Dozens of vendors’ booths sheltered by white awning lined the parking lot, wrapping around the corner of the LLU Health Welcome Center. Hundreds of guests attended the event, chatting with farmers selling locally grown produce including strawberries, kale, tomatoes, avocados, and carrots. Other food items for sale included jewel-toned mason jars filled with jams and jellies, a selection of nuts and dried fruit, and freshly baked bread and cookies. At one booth, children held kittens and a puppy that were up for adoption while bikers of all ages lined up to have their bicycles inspected at a “bike hospital” sponsored by LLU Health and the Inland Empire Biking Alliance.

As the celebration began, representatives from Loma Linda University Health, the city of Loma Linda, and the Loma Linda Chamber of Commerce gathered at the entrance to the Councilors Student Pavilion for the ribbon cutting.

Each Tuesday from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m., the area where the festivities were held (the parking lot in front of the LLU Health Welcome Center bordering Anderson Street at the corner of Mound Street) will be transformed into a destination where staff, students, faculty, and their families can mingle with residents of the surrounding community as they browse the market, purchase fresh produce and baked goods, and enjoy dinner.

In his opening remarks, Phil Carslisle, chief executive officer, Loma Linda Chamber of Commerce, said that it is fitting that the market be held on the campus of Loma Linda University Health in the heart of a National Geographic Blue ZoneTM (places in the world where people live measurably longer lives), as it will offer locally grown fruit and vegetables. The next speaker was Dusty Rigsby, MD, mayor of Loma Linda. Dr. Rigsby assured those gathered that Loma Linda Farmer’s Market Night has the city’s full support.

In his remarks, Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president, Loma Linda University Health, mentioned that there are few projects he has watched develop with more interest than Loma Linda Farmer’s Market Night. Dr. Hart noted his belief that the founders of Loma Linda University would be delighted to see the organization and the community gather together at Farmer’s Market Night. He recalled how working in the garden was a requirement for early students.

According to J.C. Belliard, PhD, assistant vice president, community partnerships, there is much to celebrate. “Loma Linda University Health and the Loma Linda Chamber of Commerce have teamed up to make Loma Linda Farmer’s Market Night a reality,” he says. “This is an early step for us as we contribute to California Healthy Cities and Communities goals, developing a robust city center at Loma Linda that can serve as a community hub where LLU Health faculty, staff, students, patients, and their families can join members of the community in walking, biking, and pursuing a healthy lifestyle.”

]]>
Thu, 13 Jun 2013 10:33:39 -0700
4264:10736 <![CDATA[Are walnuts a key to healthy aging? New Loma Linda study seeks answers - and more participants]]> Herbert Atienza With every 1-ounce bag of walnuts that he consumes each day, Philip McCririe is helping unlock the potential of the popular, nutrient-dense nut in improving health.

Mr. McCririe is one of the participants in the Walnuts and Healthy Aging Study, also known as WAHA—a major new research project out of Loma Linda University School of Public Health that seeks to discover if walnut consumption plays a role in healthy aging.

“I think it’s fascinating to be part of this study,” says Mr. McRirie, 71, a retiree from Fontana, California. “I’ve always been a fan of nuts, and I’ve always been interested in being healthy.”

The study, expected to last for two years, will look at the health outcomes for 350 men and women, from 65 to 75 years, who are divided into two groups: The “walnut group” will pursue their normal life and diet, in addition to eating walnuts daily; while the control group will pursue their normal dietary routines, while avoiding eating nuts completely.

Joan Sabaté, MD, DrPH, the study’s principal investigator, says that pioneering research conducted at Loma Linda University two decades ago gave definitive proof that walnuts improve heart health.

“Now, we will attempt to determine if walnuts help in healthy aging as it relates to memory, cognition, eye health, nutritional status, and overall well-being,” he says. “These participants will be involved in contributing to the advancement of nutritional science and in discovering if walnuts play any role in healthy aging.”

An early campaign to get people to volunteer for the study has brought a number of participants, but more are needed and people are encouraged to participate, says Dr. Sabaté.

Qualified participants must be between 65 to 75 years old; fluent or have a working knowledge of English; be willing to report regularly on the food they eat; and be able to come to Loma Linda University for 30 minutes once every two months. People who are allergic to walnuts, extremely obese, or have uncontrolled diabetes or hypertension are not qualified to participate.

A person who participates will receive a free individualized health assessment, valued at more than $2,000, that includes an eye test; blood cholesterol test; memory and cognition assessment; height, weight, and percent body fat measurements; and assessments of diet and lifestyle habits.

Mr. McCririe says the prospect of receiving supplemental health assessments, such as the eye test, attracted him to sign up for the study. “Medicare does not cover eye care, so the eye exam appealed to me,” he says.

In the two months that he’s consumed walnuts supplied to him by the study organizers, he says he’s noticed some changes in his health.

“I swear my eyesight has changed,” he says. “I have bifocals and I keep taking them off. Sometimes, I just take them off and keep on working in front of the computer.”

For more information about participating in the study, visit www.WAHAstudy.org or call (909) 558-4300 ext. 47170 or 1-877-558-6248 (1-877-LLUMC4U).

]]>
Thu, 13 Jun 2013 10:11:23 -0700
4264:10732 <![CDATA[LLU Drayson Center hosts Los Angeles Clippers basketball camp]]> Herbert Atienza For the fifth straight season, Loma Linda University Drayson Center will host the Los Angeles Clippers Youth Hoops Program and The National Basketball Academy (TNBA) for a five-day basketball camp.

Boys and girls from 6 to 17 years old are invited to attend this season’s camp, set for 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. each day, July 8–12, at Loma Linda University Drayson Center, 25040 Stewart Street, Loma Linda, California, 92354.

Cost for the camp is $245, which includes a free ticket to a Los Angeles Clippers home game at STAPLES Center for the 2013–14 season.

“We are very pleased to welcome the Los Angeles Clippers and The National Basketball Academy for the fifth straight season of the Los Angeles Clippers Youth Hoops Program,” says Donald Sease, MBA, director of Loma Linda University Drayson Center. “Our kids are excited to receive hands-on practice and get advice from some of the best players and coaches out there.”

The camp will include training and games, as well as instruction on basic offensive and defensive plays that are actually in the Los Angeles Clippers playbook. The camp will also include educational elements from staff of the Loma Linda University department of nutrition, who will discuss health, nutrition, and other activities that enhance health.

“Our vision at the National Basketball Academy and Los Angeles Clippers is to bring our unique combination of professional basketball instruction and education to the Loma Linda area,” says Steve Vega, TNBA regional director and professional basketball trainer. “The community is perfect for us to provide a fun and exciting environment for the development of basketball players.”

For more information, check out www.tnbabasketball.com/programs/clippers.

]]>
Thu, 13 Jun 2013 10:07:05 -0700
4264:10727 <![CDATA[Murrieta campus passes life-saving milestone]]> Kathryn Stiles On Thursday, June 6, Alfredo Rasi, MD, and Nahidh Hasaniya, MD, PhD, performed the 100th open heart surgery at LLU Medical Center–Murrieta. Both cardiothoracic surgeons, based at Loma Linda University International Heart Institute, have been instrumental in opening the interventional cardiac program at Loma Linda University Medical Center–Murrieta.

The program was licensed by the state of California in April 2012. Since that time, the program has grown rapidly. LLUMC-Murrieta is the first and only provider of interventional cardiac services in the Murrieta/Temecula region. LLUMC-Murrieta will soon be a licensed STEMI (heart attack) receiving center, which will have a significant impact on the hospital’s cardiac volume.

“They saved my husband’s life!” a Facebook user named Sally says of the program.

]]>
Thu, 13 Jun 2013 09:54:08 -0700
4264:10699 <![CDATA[Featured video - Beating Cancer with a Positive Attitude]]> Advancement Films ]]> When diagnosed with stage 4 cancer, Dawn didn't lose sight of her goal to become a lawyer. She received advanced HIPEC cancer treatment at Loma Linda University Health—just 1 of 2 medical centers on the west coast that offer the specialized treatment. Watch her inspiring story of how her positive outlook and innovative care is helping her live her dream today.

]]>
Thu, 06 Jun 2013 11:50:37 -0700
4264:10697 <![CDATA[Injured and wounded soldiers benefit from adaptive sports day with Team PossAbilities]]> Briana Pastorino Nearly 70 ill, injured, and combat-wounded soldiers from the Army Reserve and National Guard filled Loma Linda University Drayson Center as part of the Adaptive Reconditioning Day on Wednesday, June 5. Hosted by LLU PossAbilities, in collaboration with the Community-Based Warrior Transition Unit-California (CBWTU), the soldiers were exposed to various activities in an effort to expand their options for physical and recreational activity despite their personal limitations.

“This event is aimed to teach these men and women how to stay active despite their physical limitations, whatever they may be,” says Cotie Williams, program coordinator for PossAbilities. “We also want these heroes to know that PossAbilities is a great resource for them, and we are always here in whatever capacity they need us to be.”

The men and women who attended the special event came from various parts of Southern California, including Mike Klementich, an activated National Guardsman in the United States Army, who calls Pasadena home. While serving in Afghanistan last year he suffered various injuries while working as a fueler, operating a 25,000-gallon fuel truck.

“This has been a great day so far,” Mr. Klementich said during a lunch break at Drayson Center. “Because of the CBWTU I am able to be home with my family, and that’s the best part. Being here today has been good so far. There are a lot more people like me here than I expected.”

Mr. Klementich, a father of three, affirms his injuries include a torn out shoulder, an injured knee, and his foot needs reconstructive surgery, which will happen later this month. He admits that getting on a bike was beneficial for his knee and looks forward to more cycling before he has surgery on his foot.

The soldiers rotated through various sessions throughout the day including pool therapy, kayaking, stretching and exercise, wheelchair basketball, and cycling. They also received nutrition counseling from LLU professor of nutrition and dietetics, Bert Connell, PhD, who is a former Army Reservist. He provided basic guidelines for weight loss and control and improving nutrition.

An orientation on PossAbilities was provided by Team PossAbilties athlete Greg Crouse, who was injured while serving in the US Army which resulted in the amputation of his left leg. He informed the soldiers about the community outreach program and the resources it provides. Health screenings were also available at the event.

]]>
Thu, 06 Jun 2013 11:40:59 -0700
4264:10695 <![CDATA[Loyal staff feted at employee recognition banquets]]> Kelly Phipps On May 28–30, Human Resource Management held the annual Employee Recognition Banquets honoring those who have served in the Loma Linda University Health family for milestone anniversaries of five or more years. Each night honored a different entity as well as those who have worked at LLU Health for 40+ years. 

Jump to an entity: LLUMC | LLUSS | LLUHS | LLU | LLUAHSC Officers

Loma Linda University Medical Center

 

Five Years

Estella Aceron
Irene Acosta
Dare Adewumi
Benjamin Affor
Maribel Aguilar
Giovanna Aldrete
Ebone Allen
Jacob Allenbach
Daisy Alvarado
Angela Alvarez
Martha Alvarez
Wendy Anawaty
Kirk Anderson
Julie Andrews
Ramtin Anousheh
Jennifer Aquino
Marcia Arnold Bernard
Stephanie Arnold
Catherine Arrogante
Amy Arroyo
Matthew Arroyo
Anne Atkinson
Brittany Atterbury
Christine Augusto
Cecilia Avila
Noemi Avila
Clementina Aviles
Bantale Ayisire
Julie Baldwin
Maria Balistreri
Mark Banjao
Waheed Baqai
Nenita Barbon
Cassondra Barnett
Naily Baroya
Clara Barrios
Viridiana Bautista Velasquez
Anna Bautista
Michael Bautista
Maryann Bayag
Wendy Bazail
Jennifer Beall
Irenerose Belarde
Stacie Bice
Elizabeth Birriel
Delia Bogarin
Dennis Bonsu
Marion Borgese
Saulo Bosquez
Peter Bouz
Kimberly Brazelton
Euda Brown
Ashley Bruton
Brandon Burk
Brenda Butler-Oneal
Javier Camacho
Patricia Cameron
Michael Campbell
Marta Canaday
Anthony Canales
Kristina Canlas
Ana Carden Diaz
Alba Carpenter
Brenda Carpenter
Katie Carroll
Julie Carter
Sarah Carter
Susanna Casillas
Marlene Castillo
Melody Chang
Katie Chatigny
Benjamin Chen
David Christensen
Marinela Ciovica
Jonathan Clark
Meghan Clark
Amber Coffey
Michelle Colon
Sarah Cooke
Crystal Coronel
John Coughlin
Heather Cox
Lynn Cripe
Deborah Critchfield
Rea Crosswhite
Carolyn Cruz
Corrine Cruz
Angela Cruz-Santana
Jaime Damian
Ramez Daoud
Jennifer Davamony
Kelli Davis
Mae Davis
Emylou Dawang
Randy De Brun
Ana De La Cruz
Robert Decker
Jelyn DeGuia
Veronica Del Villar
Crystal DeLa Pena
Albert Dewri
Anatalio Dieto
Margilyn Dieto
Derik Dill
Adrian Dimaandal
Roman Dizon
Kofi Donkor
Paulita Duarte-Herrera
Edwin Dupper
William Edmunds
J Eiseman
Emily Elizondo
Jeffrey Ellers
Kate Ellis
Harriet Emerick
Jimmel Fabra
Melinda Felix
Ariel Fierro
Cynthia Figueroa
Pamela Figueroa
Zachary Filip
Sean Fisher
Jennifer Fisk
Terry Fleck
Joana Flores
Mirian Flores
Shannan Francis
Christine Fraser
Alicia French
Armadeth Ganaban
Esteban Garcia
Maria Garcia
Jeirsam Gaurino
Linda Germany
Edward Gheorghita
Renee Giroth
Antony Gobin
Kristen Golembeski
Hilda Gomez
Nicole Gomez
Tina Gomez
Antonio Gonzales
Adriana Gonzalez
Aida Gonzalez
Ashley Gordon
Eduard Gouw
Linda Greco
Randi Greenfield
Jamie Grenfell
Carla Grijalva
Stephanie Grundel
Griselda Gutierrez
Melony Gutierrez
Joseph Hahn
Palash Halder
Julie Hann
Stephanie Hanna
Andrea Harris
Eugene Hawver
Evangelina Hernandez
Grace Hernandez
Maria Hernandez
Maria Hernandez
Martiza Hernandez
Yvonne Hill
Galina Hinkle
Jose Hipolito
Tamara Hitchcock
Emilee Hoenshell
Elaine Horan
Carissa Howard
Genevive Hunt
Taylor Hurst
Adeel Husain
Otto Hutapea
Shandee Hutson
Lisa Hwang
D Mercedes Hylton
Arian Ibarra
Carmen Ibarra
Nadine Jardenil
Christine Jennings
Sandra Jimenez
Jerald Johnson
Roosevelt Johnson
Lavette Johnson
Meegan Johnson
Orlando Johnson
Tracey Johnson
Francis Jones
Melvin Jones
Rik Jones
Malia Jose
Max Merito Juan
Christopher Jueden-Pytel
Damon Kawa
Tricia Kazarian
Leslie Keefer
Michael Kelley
Christine Key
Jennifer Kilgore
Christina Killeen
Kenneth Kim
Paggie Kim
YuJin Kim
Ryan Kinsey
Dawn Kirk
Jody Knapp
Jill Krell
Kathleen Kurian
Christie Lacey
Rachel Lacsina
Modesto Lacson
Bradley Lang
Geneva LaRocque
Jennifer Lauer
Susan Leedy
Lindy Legoh
Sondra Leno
Dorsela Leon
Talolo Lepale
Sergey Loboda
Maritza Lopez
Fabian Lora
David Lucero
Jennifer Lugo
Maricela Lujan
Senaida Luna
Jane Lurenana
Claudine Ma
Sharon Macalintal
Gay Maderazo
Abigail Manaog
Sarah Marroquin
Christina Marshall
John Marth
Daniel Martin
Lilian Martinez
Melissa Martinez
Monica Masongsong
Maria Maya de Anguiano
Alison McAndrews
Cherilyn McDougall
Lorili McDougall
Justin McLarty
Maria Medina Davila
Katie Meeks
Amalyn Mejia
Maria Mejia
Mayra Mejia
Javier Melendrez Medrano
Alba Mendoza Sandoval
Traci Merritt
Jorge Mesa
Trace Miramon
Fanny Miranda
Saied Mirshahidi
Lucian Mistretta
Joan Moore
Anthony Morales
Hazael Morales
Sandra Morales
Vanessa Moreno
Brandon Moritz
Derrell Mundall
Susan Mundy
Davidzo Mupfawa
Ana Marie Narciso
Nancy Nava
Christina Navarro
Steve Navarro
Tina Navarro
Anthony Nguyen
Khanh Nguyen
Tom Nguyen
Carol Nielsen
Dekyi Norbu
Daniel Noriega
Brandon Nosworthy
Nicole Nunez
Jane Okwor
Jeffrey Olson
Aurora Olvera
Rosalinda Olvera
Marisa Oonjitt
Truphosa Otianga
Kurtrice Owens
Claudia Padilla
Leniel Pagan
Samuel Pakpahan
Bernadette Pamintuan
Mark Panganiban
Ferdousi Parveen
Chandra Patel
Jinesh Patel
Sugey Perea
Marcela Perez
Jonathan Perry
George Perumbral
Donny Pesulima
Sandra Plattner
May Poquiz
Zuri Portillo
Sara Pote
Elizabeth Puchero
Ramona Pullum
Chairat Pungaew
Paulo Quadros
Maria Kristina Quinones
Jody Quintero
Arlyn Mae Quintos
Elmer Ramilo
Jowie Ramirez
Judith Ramirez
Macrina Ramirez
Christina Ramos
Raquel Ramos
James Ramsell
Melanie Randall
Laura Rat
Robert Requejo
Christina Reyes
Mirta Reyna
June Rho
Thitthida Rhoades
Roslyn Richardson
Yovana Richardson
Chess Rivera
Daniel Rivera
Mario Rivera
Joanna Robbins
Mandy Roberg
Danielle Rodarte
Beatriz Rodriguez
Edgar Rodriguez
Jaris Rodriguez
Teresa Rojas
Jethrone Role
Danny Romero
Eunice Rzepka
Heather Saenz
Daniel Saint Elie
Inez Salas
Sabrina Salce
Amanda Salcido
Frederick Salvan
Kamran Samakar
Summer San Lucas
Maria Sanchez De Arellano
Nancy Sanchez
Tiffany Sanchez
Eva Sandoval
Jhesinet Santiago
Daniel Sarmiento
Stephanie Sarmiento
William Saunders
Mary Schilling
Amy Schlaifer
Timothy Schlinkert
Stacy Schoberth
Julianne See
Charlene Senosiain
Majid Seraj
Anna Shearer
Gloria Shedrick
Eric Shelton
Christie Shine
Gerardo Simon
Novi Sitanggang
Michelle Skillern-Dunn
Lowan Smiley-West
Paula Smith
David Soda
Angela Sohl
Lian Somali
Gena Soto
Estella Squires
Andrew Stanek
Amber Steinman
Katie Strum
Shontez Suarez
Sarah Sydnor
Sylvia Tadros
Feliz Taggart
Romeo Tagupa
Julissa Tamayo
Anna Tang
Krizzette Tanwangco Barker
Chandra Taylor
Irene Tecson
Hortencia Tellez
Angela Teresi
Chanhseng Thalansy
Erika Tholen
Claudia Thomas
Rosalyn Thompson
Timothy Thorsen
Ivory Tifa
Gareth Tiu
Elaine Torrez-Gonzalez
Huong Tran
Huy Truong
Jose Tschen
Irina Turlea
Shawn Uraine
Yvonne Urquides
Jesamy Valdez
Victor Valdez
Victoria Valdivia
Heather Valentine
Salina Van Noy
Jose Vargas
Evelyn Velasco
Stacy Velasquez
Maria Vidales
Daniel Vielma
Renata Villalobos Salinas
Ada Villalobos
Natalie Virrueta
Shanelle Vongchanphen
Xiaoguang Wang
Sabrina Ward
Candace Watkins
John Wiatrak
Stacey Wiles
Jessica Willemse
Cotie Williams
Shonay Williams
Darren Wilson
Sarah Winder
Alfredo Wong Yu
Beatrice Wong
Jasmine Wong
Laura Wright
Andrew Wroe
John Wuisang
Alvin Ylaya
Monique Yoeliko
Christine Yoo
Cherry Zhuang
Jennifer Ziino
 

Ten years

Richard Aguilar
Sylvia Almanza
Aida Almario
Gloria Almonte
Rosa Alvarado
Epifania Amis
Lisa Arevalo
Angelika Ashburn
Adelara Babalola
Stanley Baldwin
Dann Banaag
Victoria Barb
Ray Barreta
Sang Bentjen
Megan Bilbao
Karen Breyer
Susan Brothers
Diana Burke
Lauren Burke-Hodge
Juanita Camacho
Michael Cantrell
Manuel Cantu
Kurt Cao
Melissa Carlson
Jeannette Carruthers
Terre Carter
Patricia Cerano
Latisha Chavez
Shannon Christensen
Jacquelyn Christiansen
Donald Clapp
Naomi Conrad
Gail Cooper
Lilia Cornejo
Lynelle Crabtree
Tabitha Cristancho
Miriam De Guzman
Karly De Nayer
Maria De Vera-Maceren
Eugenia Decker
Amber Dees
Jennifer Denton
Michelle DeSpain
Mesfin Desta
Tamara Dirks
Sherri Dixon
Karina Drachenberg
Annamarie Dugaduga
Denise Duran
Monique Edwards
Elba Eismann
Reylindo Estocada
Isaac Facundo
Erin Fakhouri
Edward Fernandez
Elia Ferreira
Joni Field
Carmen Figueroa
Kendra Fittante
Jon Foreman
Christina Franks
John Frazier
Nancy Fritz
Dennis Fuehring
Rebecca Ganzon
Juanita Garcia
Xochitl Garcia
Jennifer Gastinger
Beth Gilbert
Wendy Gill
Keston Glasgow
Frances Godoy
Aime Gomez
Virginia Gonzalez
Joshua Goodman
Brett Gors
Laurie Gould
Matthew Grace
Ramon Gutierrez
Anna Guzman
Jamie Hambly
Jessica Hanely
Phyllis Heftman
Sumamarn Hemavarna
Melba Hernandez
Patricia Hernandez
Yvette Hernandez
Michele Hillock
Meredith Hofer
Angelica Holguin
Cathy Howell
Prose Huilar
Samuel Huong
Shawn Hurley
Hendrik Hutagaol
Susan Huynh
Brenda Jerez-Aguilar
Lucita Jie
Keith Jones
Huguette Joseph-Domond
Yeghia Kamrekian
Sylvia Kite
Veronika Laketau
Marguerite Lauderback
Eric Leake
Rebecca Lemons
Donna Lesher
Lawrence Lipsett
Arturo Lozano
Serafin Luistro
Sherry Luistro
Victoria Lund
Emily Luu
Leticia Luza
Raquel Magno
Marian Manansala
Reyna Manrique
Filomeno Martinez
Eileen Martois
Bernad Matondang
Todd Means
Elizabeth Mendoza
Obadias Mendoza
Kyle Miller
Rachael Millett
Atsuko Miyajima
Donna Mock
Marbella Moncada
Michael Morales
Idany Moss
Andrea Moussa
Kari Muhr
Nelson Nemenzo
Rebecca Neufeld
Norma Ngo
Dominador Nicolas
Christina Niles
Bituin Oben
Monica Oceguera
Eric Ordonez
Norma Oros
Akrofi Otubuah
Damaris Pakpahan
Austin Parker
Wanda Patterson
Jennifer Paulson
Deserie Pedroza
Schannon Pianalto
Marinella Piedra
Angelina Pineda
Ritzelle Porsona
Jessica Pratt
Tina Prewitt
Mariana Prieto
Kimberly Pukal
Audie Ramirez
Delightie Ramos
Carel Randolph
Cynthia Reese
Teresita Resari
Shawn Reynolds
Eon Rhodius
Sean Rhodius
Catherine Robinson
Julio Rodriguez
Kelly Rolle
Christine Romero
Jimuel Romero
Jodie Roussell
Churchill Roy
Rachelle Rubio
Robert Ruiz
Ellen Sabangan
Paul Saldana
Bellaliza Salonga
Michelle Sanchez
Rocsana Sanchez
Lori Sanderson
Gabriel Santos
Valerie Santos
Diane Scavone
Keila Schulz
Patty Schwab
Mary Scott
Tonya Scribner
Vicki Sepulveda
Pamela Short
Sheila Sia
Monica Siegers
Alida Sihotang
Sandy Silva
Maria Silvano
Yolanda Simandjuntak
Ruth Simorangkir
Colleen Smith
Melissa Smith
Angelica Soto
Preyawan Soto
Daravanh Soukhavong
Anthony Sousa
Dorothy Stallberg
Amanda Story
Monique Strickland
Carlene Sylvia
Iris Ydem Tabingo
April Tapia
Teofila Taylor
Oxana Teppone-Martin
Margarita Teran
Martina Thomas
Beth Thompson
Michele Thompson-Rivera
Melanie Thornburg
Sokunthea Toeum
Dawn Tohm
Susan Unruh
Leila Valdez
Maria Vargas
Michelle Ventura
Leila Verde
George Verdugo
Laurie Vonch
Tanya Weber
Eileen Webster
Terri Weir
Janine Wellman
Rocio del Carmen Wilcox
Joseph Wilkinson
Andrea Williams
Teressa Wilson
Grace Wright
Yvonne Yeh
Dulce Ylaya
Jenny Young
Renelda Zezima
Amber Zhang
Elianne Zini
 

Fifteen years

Christina Abejar
Michelle Acovera
Ciria Aguilar
David Ashline
Christine Barrio
April Bay
Isabel Biasetti
Jonathan Bucayan
Kerry Burns
Julie Cao
Marissa Carillo
Margie Carson
Margaret Casas
Ernesto Castro
Catherine Chabolla
Jerryper Colegado
Carolyn Davidson
Brett Deloss
Patricia Dennehy
Perlita Deocampo
Meiling Dew
Jeanie Edinbyrd
Aaron Fletcher
Floridalma Flores
Thomas Flores
Ingrid Fobbs-Mitchell
Tracy Fry
Mernyl Gallego
Abiel Ghebremedhin
Greg Gibbs
Melody Gilbert
Rochelle Gittens
Shon Green
Jennifer Guerrero
Allen Hardwell
Edward Harrity
Flora Helepiko
Tonya Henkes
Matthew Hernandez
Rosa Herrera
Daniel Hubbell
Tina Huerta
Dennis Invencion
Anthony Iorio
Dyann Jacobs
Dale James
Marlene Jennings
Kimberly Jones
Sharon Jurgens
Constance Kahle
Melati Khoe-Peters
Glenis Knight
Maria Knight
Tracie Knighton
Theresa Kramer
Xuan Le
Tammy LeClaire
Floren Lee
Rhonda Lee
Rhona Legaspi
Hugo Lizarraga
Veronica Lopez
Anh Ly
Georgeta Marin
Anca Marinel
Kurtis Martin
Susan Masih
Manabu Matsunaga
Trina McClendon
Michael McCullough
Anita Meinken
Lilia Mendoza
Naoki Miyajima
Maria Montero
Shelly Moore
Almer Moreno
Cynthia Mortensen
Patricia Moyeda
Stephanie Navarro
Shelly Nelson
Pamela Nitto
Mary Oconnell
Carolyn Ogden
Mark Oneill
Angela Orozco
Anthony Pantaleo
Susan Parker
Baldev Patyal
Barbara Perry
Anne Petersen
Angela Philip
Patricia Poleto-Still
Tiffany Powell
Jeanette Powers
Amanda Putman
Michelle Quintana
Julissa Rodriguez
Lida Salcedo
Darlene Saldana
Cornelia Salgado
Jennifer Sanders
Ben Savage
Anthony Schmidt
Robert Schoberth
Angela Sisemore
Eva Smith
Susan Smith
Margaret Spaulding
Vickie Stead
Kristie Stephens
Patricia Stern
Ginger Stock
Timothy Swan
Robert Tan
Lina Tawil
Tamara Terry
Erma Thompson
Sherilyn Toppenberg
Soundar Toure
Gretchen Vanderheide
Juan Vega
Veronica Vega
Jesus Velasco
Christina Venegas Baca
Lori Verde
Guillermo Villegas
Sally Westfall
Tracy White
Lisa Williams
Tammy Willis
Darlynn Willy
Joseph Wityczak
Dianne Wooldridge
Fong Yau
Peter Yulip
Lisa Zidek
 

Twenty years

Mario Alfaro
Jay Alido
Janette Alinsug
Keith Anderson
Dinah Antonio
Nellie Baptista
Lisa Bassett*
Catherine Boone
Lois Butler
Giovanni Caballero
Philip Caballero
Jason Cavanaugh
Jerry Comilang
Gladys Cortez
Floradema Dancel-Ibalio
Anjali David
Marie Dawson
Kathie Elloway
Cristina Flores
Irma Flores
Brooke Flowers
Sharon Fox
Edward Garoian
Velma George
Gerte Graybill
Terrianne Grino
Mary Hanna
Nancy Harper
Imelda Hernandez
Celia Ico
Miyuki Isogai
Marilyn Jones
George Katkov
Lesley Kelley
Cheryl Kim
Otho Kirk
Ladayna Kisgen
Joseph Lanspa
Anh-Truc Le
Karen Lee
Lan Leeper
Stella Leung
Debora Mahar
Diane Martin
Mearlene Martin
Marcia Medema
Kenneth Michaels
Valeriu Negoescu
Dian Noer
Dawn Olson
Grant Osantowski
Edward Parenteau
Tinneke Pesulima
Vijayan Ponnuraju
William Preston
Linda Puma
Michelle Ramos
Philip Reidhammer
Beverly Rigsby
Jenaro Rodriquez
Pamela Ruiz
Irene Saldana
Samantha Saldana
Marilyn Sanders
Vanda Shattuck
Michelle Simpson
Robert Simpson
Caroline Spoerl
Gaylene Swanson
George Tagaro
Wency Tagaro
Dave Tan
Donald Vidana
Martha Villa
Manuela Villegas
Anita Wagner
Betty Ann Wagner
Mary Warrick
Linda Weems
Dolores Wright
Jeannette Yanez
Joanna Yang
 

Twenty-Five Years

Clayton Aceres
William Adams
Benjamin Ando
Karla Aryan
Yolanda Brewer
Dorothy Brooks
Emlyn Carbajal
Brenda Castaneda
Leh Chang
Cynthia Chilson
Mike Davidson
Patricia Dawley
Donna Delaval
Sandra Devine
Sonia Dickerson
Lorri Erickson
Michael Fairfield
Marjorie Fernandez
Anthea Gibbons
Melody Glass
Londa Gregg
Cynthia Grijalva
Terri Hagerman
Diana Haselroth
Vincent Hocutt
John Jabbour
Milca Kalbermatter
R Kirkpatrick
Jan Kramer
Galen Liklikwatil
Marilyn Magness
Arden Maranan
Phala Martinez
Michael May
Linda Mccann
Cinda McHargue
Wagih Mikhail
Gloria Molinar
Hilda Moussally
Suthee Muenyong
Debra Nettles
Constance Provance
Nancy Quesada
Samuel Ramos
Kimber Rawson
Amelia-May Real
Kelly Reed
Donna Sadler
Sylvia Saguan
Jolanda Schilling
Ingrid Seheult
Marilyn Sprenkle
Craig Stottlemyer
Idanitha Tampubolon
Georgina Vendiola
Danilo Villacarlos
Debbie Wall
Darla Watterson
Rosalind Weaver
John Wical
Karen Wong
 

Thirty Years

Craig Austin
Delia Bantigue
Asher Barrientos
Sandy Blake
Eileen Bloom
Ruth Brower
William Call
Frances Felipe
Lynda Fiesler
Linda Garcia
Faye Hoff
Lisne Hutauruk
Lorene James
Dana Kelleher
Lisa Kirby
Linda Larson
Janice Leogrande
Pamela Letterly
Michael Lum
Susan Martin
Nancy Nigg
Kay Ogata
Cynthia Olson
Ivette Olvera
Lola Parker
Lynne Parrott
Donna Rafuse
Dolores Revell
Vincent Ross
Marcela Rouse
Sylvia Ryan
Jeannine Sharkey
Tammy Shaw
Helen Staples-Evans
Merle Taylor
Regina Thomas
Jay Thompson
Pamela Timothy
Candance Turner Santacroce
Dennis Vanfossen
Christina Villa
Christine Visnaw
Josephine Wong
Laurel Wood
 

Thirty-Five Years

Alan Alipoon
Lolita Aprecio
Jan Belden
Paul Bork
Wilmer Brading
Marie Delange
Linda Dockery
Kelly Eick
Donald Garcia
Brenda Gauthier
Harvey Glasgow
Connie Haglund
Rachell Heramil
Linda Hossler
Linda Houston-Feenstra
Rebecca Hunter
Rosie Jones
Carol Knecht
Noriko Kuniya
Rajani Lim
Charlotte Mcneill
Joanna Miao
Retta Michaelis
Barbara Mordue
Hanny Oey
Joseph Olmos
Harley Price
Patricia Radovich
Milton Real
Carol Rezkalla
Glenn Robinson
Edward Rodriguez
Debbie Walker
Marian Wells
Shelia Wilson
 

Forty Years

Valorie Adams
Keith Ayers
Mildred Canlas
Rebecca Cassady
Cindy Comfort
Patricia Crudup
Elfrida Cuizon
Ruth De Paepe
Lindy Deganos
Enid Ford
Robert Fuller
Ulda Gutierrez
Lolita Hequibal
Marie Hodgkins
Brenda Holden
Natalie Meikle
Maria Ortiz
Richard Sample
Roger Schlotthauer
Jeanette Schmidt
Sue Talboom
Faye Vega
James Wong
Janice Zumwalt
 

Forty-Five Years 

Elena Aguilar
Nehemias Imperio
Judith O'Connor
Loren Poole
 

Loma Linda University Shared Services

 

Five Years

Brandi Arizmendi
Thomas Becker
Matthew Betham
Amanda Biddle
Brook Brawner
Raul Cahue
Juana Duran
Melissa Figueroa
Francisco Flores
Vince Garcia
Charlene Joy Guadiz
Michael Harvey
Gyasi Haynes
Stephen Hertel
Tiesha Hill
Sherrylin Keri
Rudolph Maringka
Patricia Martinez
Trac Nguyen
Judith Paxton
James Ponder
James Pragasam
Eva Robledo
Christa Rochford
Charles Saenz
Eunice Salas
Lorraine Sarmiento
Fiorella Serna
Albert Situmorang
Joshua Sweet
Rachel Terwillegar
Mark Testerman
Kevin Van Arsdall
Douglas Welch
 

Ten Years

Marianne Bellettini
Leslie Bevis
Jeffery Carter
Mary Ann Carter
Bernabe Davila
Gwendolyn Dawson
Anuradha Diekmann
Edgar Drachenberg
Victoria Dulin
Jason Gallo
David Galvan
Ruth Harr
Victor Hurtado
Sherman Jefferson
Kenya Johnson
Patricia Kelikani
Kenneth Kim
Alison Melhouse
Michelle Morgan
Angelic Navarro
Gregory Nelson
Frances Parkinson
Anita Polit
Iris Ram
Michael Smith
Kris Sutton
Libu Varghese
 

Fifteen Years

Gloria Archuleta
Donald Bretsch
Lynda Bridges
Raul Castillo
Mary Clement
Susan Fajardo
Stephen Janssen
Radha Mathews
Domingo Melenciano
Jennifer Rowland
Bertha Sandoval
Yolanda Segura
Samir Sircar
Amanda Sorensen
Gary Villanueva
 

Twenty Years

Cindy Dickson
Samia Fisher
Gerald Johnson
Patricia Larios-Gil
Sharon Reddall
Obed Rutebuka
Kathleen Wilson
 

Twenty-Five Years

Jeanna Castillo
Willard Ceccarelli
Susan Davey
Renee Royer
Nancy Yuen
 

Thirty Years

Kelley Herr-Roadruck
Faith Hughes
 

Forty Years

Dianne Nelson
 

Loma Linda University

 

Five Years

Abdullah Sherzai
Adamson S. Muula
Akankshi A. Sharma-Arora
Ali Sulaiman Altuwairjri
Allen Gabriel
Andres E. Dominguez
Andrew H. Guo
Anita E. Lee
Anna Nelson
Arlin B. Blood
Arun K. Gupta
Bouchra Edderkaoui
Brian D. Hodgkins
Brian S. Chu
Bruce C. Steffes
Cecilia S. Lau
Chris H. Chan
Christine Wilson
Christopher C. Perry
Cid Nazir
Colleen A. Whitt
Cory Gheen
Dan Nadler
Daniel D. Newbold
David A. Chamberlin
David S. Penner
Derek C. Chu
Derya U. Tagge
Dominique M. Shaw
Donald G. Tohm
Duane R. Anderson
Edward P. Tagge
Eileen Fry-Bowers
Elizabeth M. Hofmeister
Emerald B. Caruso
Eric K.B. Lim
Frederick R. Mathews
Froylana Heredia-Miller
G. Patrick Maxwell
Godwin N. Aja
Gordon E. Mote
Graciela G. Duran
Graciela O. Molina
Gregory S. Aaen
Gulnara Rackauskas
Hans A. Diehl
Helen Xu
Hoa T. Nguyen
James A. Brown
James A. Libby
James A. Mathey
James B. Hicks
James E. Currier
Jason A. Tan
Javad Tafreshi
Jay Kahng
Jay T. Jablow
Jennifer B. Cristall
Jennifer C. St. Clair
Jennifer J. Lim
Jennifer Keehbauch
Jenny Juncaj
Jesus J. Cazares
Jia-Yi Bian
Jimmy H. Eguchi
John F. Feller
Jonathan P. Zirkle
Juana R. Cavinder
Jung-Wei Chen
Kamal Kejriwal
Kari Firestone
Keir J. Thelander
Ken M. Fukushima
Kenneth E. Kinoshita
Kevin Mickey
Khalid S. Alsowayegh
Kimberly N. Otsuka
Krishna Nayak
Kwang-Su Peter Chung
Lee J. Slater
Lily B. Martorell-Bendezu
Lorie T. DeCarvalho
Luong Ly
Mark Patuszynski
Mark Stewart
Martin M. Le
Maximino A. Mejia
Mei Lu
Melissa J. Pereau
Meng-Jin Jonathan Goh
Michael E. Hill
Mie Mie Thinn
Miguel Krishnan
Milton R. Teske
Mukesh B. Suthar
Nirav Mamdani
Oscar D. Martin
Patricia S. Murdoch
Patrick G. McCaffery
Patrick L. Huston
Paul C. Herrmann
Paul H.S. Yoo
Paula D. Scariati
Peter R. Przekop
Phat H. Ngo
Pooja Goel
R. Steven Kurti Jr.
Rafael Molina
Raghad J. Sulaiman
Rahul M. Kale
Ram C. Malhotra
Rami Jin
Ramona L. Hyman
Ravi V. Kiran
Raylene L. Mote
Richard Blanco
Richard D. Doty
Richard Sun
Rolando A. Atiga Jr.
Ron K. Brathwaite
Ronald L. Sorrels
Rubin C. Lin
Ryan E. Lauer
Ryan M. Cochrane
Sally L. Htoy
Sam D. Dason
Sam Siddighi
Samah I. Omar
Samuel S. Oh
Scott K. McClatchey
Sean Wilson
Shastin Rains
Shawn J. Hinton
Shelley F. Abdel-Sayed
Shilpa Gupta
Shirley A. Simmons
Sid A. Danesh
Stanley Awramik
Steven Chong
Su Su Hline
Sunhwa Jenny Kim
Takahiro Otsuka
Tariq M. Arif Hussain
Teri L. Rhetta
Tim K. Cordett
Timothy Seavey
Traci L. Marin
Travis E. Losey
Vincent K. Chee
Viviane S. Haber
Walter F. Klein
Walter T.Y. Chang
Wesley E. Fleming
Zachary J. Cash
Acosta, Victoria Lynn
Ahmad, Sumer Ali
Altamirano, Ismari
Aritonang, Averyda
Atienza, Kimberly P
Bains, Gurinder S
Becker, Christopher Warren
Brieno, Milly L
Brinson, Sherry Laran
Brower, Jacqueline Renee
Brower, Raelene Joan
Campbell, Kirk Patrick
Canwell, Carl Joseph
Caposio, Sondra Dee
Carrington ,Jacki Lyn
Cejalvo II, Roger E
Cosejo, David Palmado
Darnall, Linda Diane
Donovan, Reggie Dean
Ellsworth, Karla Gissel
Erghelegiu, David
Espinoza, Aurelia R
Fan, Jing
Fernandez, Albert E
Flores, Roberto
Frazier, Alicia Monet
Gallegos, Everardo
Garcia, Luis A
Gonick, Alan Steven
Gutierrez, Cristina P
Hackleman, Douglas Lee
Hamilton, Grace L
Harding, Nicole Renee
Hargett, Marc Allyn
Haulk, Mary Kathleen
Hurley, Robert Ford
Johnston, Flint Abram
Kim Jr,Elia Myung Shik
Landero, Isabel Louisa
Liang, Hsiao Fang
Martinez, Obed
McCree, Dana Gayle
McGhee, Larry William
Mochache, Michael Nyakeri Nyameta
Mohamed, Omaima A
Morales, Aracely
Murillo, Edmundo
Muthersbaugh, Amy Renee
Nafie, John D
Nicolas, Anne
Olivarez, Gil A
Paley, Debbie Laurie P
Perez Garcia, Veronica Margarita
Pifer, Julie Elizabeth
Pomeroy, Roxana
Ramos, Josephine T
Richard, Kristine Frances Capalla
Rivas, Raul Hernan
Rodriguez, Denise Lynn
Ruiz, Elaine M
Sadek, Hanan
Saldivar ,April Renee
Sandy, Daniel Sahr
Sarucam, Rafael Papillero
Serna, Doris Voelker
Serrano, Jeanette
Shedd, Joanna Dallas
Simmons, Jeremy M
Sompotan, Harrold Pouwel
Valenzuela, Amber Diane
Walton, Jeffery L
Willsey, Katherine E
Woods Sr, Victor Lee
Xu, Dan
Zhou, Xiaodong
 

Ten Years

Afshin M. Molkara
Alexander Zouros
Allen J. Job
Andrea O. Ray
Andrew T. Ho
Arnd Hallmeyer
Arpatharaj H. Kore
Barratt L. Phillips
Carolann R. Rosario
Cinda L. Nauertz
Craig M. Ririe
Cynthia H. Tinsley
David T. Wong
Delight S. Gunnarsson
Elham Kheirhkhahi
Eric K. Frykman
Erma P. Ezpeleta
Frank P.K. Hsu
Gail E. Hopkins
Gary R. Barker
Gerald A. Glavaz
H. Bryant Nguyen
Harold J. Marlow Jr.
Heidi B. Kohltfarber
Herbert Giebel
Hesuk H. Baek
Hsui-Chin Jennifer Tsai
Ismail I. Elsherif
Ivanna K. Guthrie
James Chui
Jason C. Smith
Jean E. Sprengel
Jeffrey J. Ing
Jerry R. Williams
Jin S. Cha
John C. Brunt
John H. Kelly Jr.
Joseph T. Fan
Joseph V. Davis III
Julio Narvaez
Katherine R. Schlaerth
Kevin R. Herrick
Korbin H. Haycock
Kuo-Yang Liao
Lance A. Brown
Leo Chan-June Jeng
Leslie A. Bruce-Lyle
Loretta J. Wilber
Madelyn L. Fletcher-Stark
Marcelo G. Toledo
Marjon B. Jahromi
Martina I. Karunia
Michael R. Meharry
Naomi R. Florea
Olivier Henry-Savajol
Paul A. Hisada
Paul D. Burton
Paul J. Zak
Peter N. Jimenez
Phillip Roe
Prashant V. Phatak
Ramila Duwal
Ramiz A. Fargo
Robert E. French
Robert F. Landel
Roger D. Seheult
Ronald W. Jawor
Ross Fisher
Sabine S. Dunbar
Sandra H. Lee
Shashank Patel
Shigeyuki Suzuki
Silvio F. Emanuelli
Sonny C. Lee
Stephen S. West
Steven R. Sparks
Stewart R. Albertson
Tae Eung Jack Kim
Takeo Itoh
Teresa Frausto
Terry J. Dietrich
Timothy G. McNaughton
Tisha L. Salary
Tsuyoshi Soji
Ubaldo A. Soto-Wegner
Wayne S. Dysinger
William J. Hopewell III
William R. Clegg
William W. Jih
Yasmin Chene
Yoon Jeong Kim
Arnold, Lisa Michelle
Brito, Florentina
Cabrera, Felipe
Cash, Esther Sanchez
Chi, Bobby Rong
Ficken, Clarice R
Fletcher, Mark E
Foy, Deeveatva Zeeticia
Gonzales, Gloria Victoria
Guerrero, Joan Aracely
Guzman, Obed
Howard, Rosemary
Johnson, Debbie Ann
Larsen Jr, Kenneth C
Leon, Joe
Linares, Stefani Lillian
Llagas, Meiji Avendula
Magos Jr, Martin O
Manalo, Eppie Adil
Meert, Jamie T
Mendoza Alcaraz, Juanita
Messer, Cindy Kay
Nicolas, Nicole A
Orozco, Mayra
Ortiz II, Sergio E
Padilla, Reynaldo
Palma, Josue Dela Cruz
Paunescu, Robert Marius
Richards, Brandie Lee
Riojas, Ruth
Skoretz, Kimberlee Eileen
Smallridge, Sobyeda Maria
Sveen, Lars E
Tappen, Patricia G
Ugarte, Katherine Diane
Warmouth, Debra M
Yang, Xuanhong
 

Fifteen Years

Ardis E. Wazdatskey
Barry E. Watkins
Bradley P. Gilbert
Brenda Boyle
Carlos A. Casiano
Chien-Shing Chen
Donald J. Kurth
Dorothee Cole
Douglas Britton
Douglas H. Snider
Edward Gabriel
Ernie Guzman
F. Jose Torres
Francis D. Chan
Fred C. Kasischke
Gary L. Hopkins
George J. Proctor
Gordon H. Sasaki
Guillermo D. Bernal
Ivan Dus
Jan M. Nick
Jerald W. Whitehouse
John W. Skubic
Jon M. Miller
Karl J. McCleary
Kathie M. Ingram
Kitichai Rungcharassaeng
Leh C. Ota
Liviu F. Eftimie
Melissa M. Kidder
Mia C.N. Perez
Michael B. Lilly
Michelle Buckman
Pamela Y. Bekendam
Peter F. Strand
Philip J. Lanzisera
Raymond Knutsen
Robin D. Clark
Ronald M. Rea
Samir D. Johna
Samnuel C. Chua
Samuel G. Wilson
Scott W. Lee
Sheralene H. Ng
Siroj Sorajjakool
Stanford K. Shu
Susan E. Reische
T. Allan Darnell
Walter D. Johnson
Wilson D. Lao
Wu Zhang
Zelne L. Zamora
Adams,Keri Nanette
Amezcua,Jovita
Amor,Antonio G
Buducea,Aurora
Chambers Jr,Paul
Cocjin,Andresa Rafols
Gamayo,Chris Tuazon
Garland,Danielle Gayle
Heinrich,Gayle Ellen
Highton,Lisa R
Hutubessy,Bernard A
Leon,Delia
Loreto,Ivan A
Pira,Charmaine U
Rader,Edward
Simatupang,Luhut
Stokes,Patricia
Tsuneo,Billy
Yap,Caroline Liew-Cheok
 

Twenty Years

Bernard A. Taylor
Bonnie Jo Forrester
Borge Schantz
Casey M.C. Kennedy
Charlotte S. Resch
Craig A. Andreiko
Craig R. Jackson
Daisy D. De Leon
Daniel C. Mills
Debra D.L. Stottlemyer
Donna R. Gurule
Douglas W. Teller
E. Ray Verde
Eduardo J. Gonzaga Jr.
Edward F. Levine
Eric J. Friedrichsen
Esther M. Huecker
Gail A. Polvoorde
Ian C. Clarke
J. Michael Finley
Jeffrey S. Hardesty
Julian Tsai
Kathleen M. Lau
Kathy A. Herzberger
Keith D. Hoffmann
Kelly R. Morton
Linda B. Deppe
Lubo Zhang
Michele A. Jacknik
Nancy A. Kofoed
Nancy L. Sarpy
Nenita P.C. Belen
Paul A. Blacharski
Pushpa Nowrangi
Randall L. Roberts
Roy Branson
Russell E. Hoxie Jr.
Shahnaz Bonyanpoor
Shamel A. Abd-Allah
Shirley M. Tan
Synnove M.F. Knutsen
Thomas A. Kaleita
Thomas W. Taylor Jr.
Tom S. Tooma
Tony Daher
V. Leroy Leggitt
William H.R. Langridge
Asmerom, Yayesh
Benson, Audrey
Boloix-Chapman, Ester
Calderon, Gwendolyn
Carbno, James
Chee, Molly
Davis, Janine Iris
Evans, Leigh A
Gonzalez, Blanca
Hamstra,Dulce Amor
Kelly,Marilyn
Lemos, Kristen Elizabeth
Lillard, Stanley
McCarty, Bushra
Oregel, Barbara J
Perry, Marlise D
Samperio, Elaine
Tamano, Vivian
Walker, Kimberly
Wheeler, Lois A
Williams, James
 

Twenty-Five Years

Annette T. Nitta
C. John Munce
David J.K. Jo
Desmond D. Gibson
Ellen V. D’Errico
Enacio G. Hunt
Frederick A. Berry
Gary Kevorkian
George W. Christison
Ivan C. Namihas
Jeanine A. McNeill
Joan Sabaté
John J. Rossi
Kenneth A. Fowler
Kenneth W. Hart
Keri L. Medina
Marilyn C. Savedra
Patricia J.M. Applegate
Phebe F. Mosaad
Quintes P. Nicola
Ralph Downey III
Richard D. Nelson
Richard J. Tully
Richard Y. Kunihira
Robert D. Mitchell
Sharon K. Riesen
Steven M. Green
Terence D. Lewis
Teresa K. Avants
Zeno L. Charles-Marcel
Aguirre, Martin
Gonzalez, Antonio
Kaushal, Kanchan
Miranda, Larry
Popescu, M. Stephanie
Redmond, Jane Larkin
Stevens, Randal
White, Carole
Wilson, Alisa
 

Thirty Years

Carol A. Lau
Christopher M. Jobe
David M. Englander
Gail T. Rice
Jane N. Bork
John C. Naftel
Jorge L. Rivera
Josep G. Llaurado
Kenneth R. Jutzy
Klaus D. Wolfram
Patricia L. Jones
Paul G. Hammond
Raymond Y. Wong
Richard T. Cranston
Sherif A. Azer
Shobha Sahney
Sylvia Stewart
Teri S. Tamayose
William J. Pearce
Baugh, Sally
Chin, Linda
Hickman, Timothy
Lonnstrom, Gerald
Marshall, John
Negoescu, Valeriu
Salinas, Dora
Vieau, Rodney W
 

Thirty-Five Years

Daljeet B. Bansal
Darryl G. Heustis
David A. Hessinger
Durand F. Jacobs
Elizabeth A. Bossert
Guy D. Taylor
H. Paul Buchheim
Hansen S. Wang
James R. Dexter
Janelle Pyke
Joseph M. Caruso
Kimber L. Schneider
Mark J. Clements
Michael P. Boyko
Philip J. Roos
Philip M. Gold
Robert R. Torrey Jr.
Ronald J. Secor
Steven C. Stewart
Sukh S.R. Mehta
T. Richard Rice
Zaida Cordero-MacIntyre
Donato, Imelda
James, Jerome
Killion, Nellie R
Michaelis, Jan I
Smith, Thomas
Wheeler, Andrew
 

Forty Years

Barbara J. Orr
Christine G. Neish
David G. McGann
Donna G. Thorpe
E. Patrick Hoag
Gary K. Frykman
Lester L. Mohr
Loren L. Denler
Paul L. Richardson
R. Leslie Arnett Jr.
Robert J. Wagner
Wilber Alexander
William C. Patton
Beaman, Susan
Danforth, Rick
Elias, Intithar
Hay, Karen L
Hewitt, Charles
Martinez, Margarita
 

Forty-Five Years

Brian S. Bull
Jere E. Chrispens
Crispin,Stanley G
 

Fifty Years

Ernest S.S. Zane
 

Fifty-Five Years

John A. Scharffenberg
 

Sixty Years

George J. Wiesseman
 

Loma Linda University Health System

 

Five Years

Claudia Aguirre
Maria Alba
Amber Andrade
Daniella Aragon
Shawntae Baliat
Kelly Barker
Frances Barreda
Marisol Castillo
Carina Cervantes
Tinesha Charles
Gregory Cochran
Antonia Contreras
Laura Copas
Krystal Dart
Veronica De La Cruz
Celeste Dickinson
Summer Elizalde
Margarita Fasbender
Miguel Flores
Diana Galvan-Monje
Judith Garcia
Nirmalya Ghosh
Jermaine Gibson
Steffani Gomez
Patrice Goslee
Tracey Gray
AnaMaria Hau
Katie Hoffmann
Rachael Johnson
K'Bree Kasa
Heidi Keaggy
Jasmine Keller
Kimberly Laurenson
Brenda Lindsey
Maria Lozano
Peter Lumban Tobing
Alfonso Luna
Tanya Martinez
Nikki McCutchan
Scott Merrick
Angela Miller
Tamara Mills
Angelica Mora Cobarruvias
Henrriette Nguyen-Zavala
Angie Ontiveros
Heather Orth
Maha Osman
Martha Quesada
Noemi Quino
Subhadra Ramanathan
Paula Ramirez
Matthew Ritchey
Susan Rucker
Jeminna Samano
Imanuel Sianipar
Meenu Singh
Starla Stephan
Cameron Tapia
Heidi Taylor
Jay Teele
Virginia Thornton
Veronica Valdovinos
Kailani Vasquez
Ruthanne Webster
Brittany Williams
Niya Woods
Adrianna Wright
Pearl Yanez
Priscilla Young
 

Ten Years

Flor Almaraz
Gloria Alvarez
Carol Arizmenez
Sheba Baroya
Rosa Bastio
Monica Bedolla
Lucia Cabral
Julie Calleros-Lacanlale
Dina Calvillo
Jeri Campa
Candace Carlstrom
Artesia Choice
Alicia Contreras
Irma Davila
Brenda Davis
Stephanie Dorrance
Kandyce Edwards
Deanna Hernandez
Guadalupe Hernandez
Roxana Hernandez
Michelle Holguin
Ericka Houston
Margaret Hugelmaier
Susannah Hundley
Carolyn Iwakoshi
Guadalupe Jimenez
Tiffany Johnson
Kimberly Kemp
Marta Kruckmeyer
Jennifer Lewis
Lisa Lumpkin
Randa Matta
Tammy Mellon
Lauri Merrick
Gena Montoya
Araceli Mora
Debra Pendergraft
Lisa Previte
Maria Priset
Marian Rivas
Elizabeth Sanchez
Claudia Santiago
Cynthia Shipley
Anna Smith
LaRonda Taylor
Garcia Troy
Elizabeth Tucker
Marna Unger
Bonifacio Vasquez
Valori Vaughn
Lisa Vera
Gayan Wagwag
Denise Wright
Brittany Yanez
 

Fifteen Years

Inez Armenta
Cindy Bates
Anselma Bonifacio
Loretta Boyer
Margaret Cordero
Lila Dalton
Jodie Dauber
Katherine DeMuth
Nikki Gaitan
Kate Garcia
Richard Grable
Jeannie Gushwa
Wendy Lee
Laura Lines
Elaine Mariano
Barbara Marlow
Bernadette Martinez
Maria Martinez
Tanisha Mcclain
Mignon Mosley
Alice Nevarez
Steven Ogilvie
Virginia Orozco
Rebecca Razo
Krista Renstrom
Sheila Risley
Kimberly Rodriguez
Maria Saldana
Sharon Sepulveda
Michelle Sharrow
Julie Shelton
Georgia Short
Michelle Strabley
Ladawna Tigard
Jerlene Toleston
Madeleine Velasco
Mark White
Tracy Zamora
 

Twenty Years

Cynthia Acevedo
Alina Barbon
Darrin Blocker
Eunice Bryant
Leomario Delote
Maureen Haney
Monika Johnson
Kathrine McAllister
Shelia Morris
Judith Nelson
Loida Reyes
Audrey Romero
Lercy Rubin
Donald Sutton
Patricia Tautolo
Maria Thompson
Mark Titus
Lisa Tomeo
Taisha Wick
 

Twenty-Five Years

Shondra Brink
Terri Chaffin
Kuualoha Fernandez
Peggy Hiersche
Patricia Kalina
James Miller
Jeanniemarie Tosti
Abner Velasco
Cynthia Vest
 

Thirty Years

Betty Ashbaker
Sheri Cortez
Diana Doxie
Darice Funai
Lyne Jones
Pamela Molloy
 

Thirty-Five Years

Connie Fuller
Elizabeth Staggs
 

Forty Years

Sandra Mccoy
 

Forty-Five Years

Janel Stellhorn 
 

LLUAHSC Officers

Five Years

Ruthita Fike
Roger Hadley
Angela Lalas
Kevin Lang
Rodney Neal
 

Ten Years

Christian Johnston
Jesse Mock
 

Fifteen Years

Daniel Fontoura
David Paul Harris
Steven Mohr
 

Twenty Years

Ronald Carter
Zareh Sarrafian
Ricky Williams
Gerald Winslow
 

Twenty-Five Years

Mark Hubbard
David Wren
 

Thirty-Five Years

Cynthia Schmidt 
 
]]>
Thu, 06 Jun 2013 11:31:33 -0700
4264:10692 <![CDATA[Three years after wreck, 6-year-old Luis can breathe normally again]]> Jason Lohr At first glance, he looks like any other 6-year-old—bright eyes, shy smile, and able to spend long hours playing Angry Birds on an iPad.

But Luis Fernando is not your typical 6-year-old. Three years ago he was involved in a tragic car accident when a taxi and two other cars collided at night in downtown Tegucigalpa, Honduras, killing three adults and leaving six seriously injured. Luis and his mother were among those seriously injured and were transported directly to the government hospital.

Luis had an open head wound with a skull fracture, was in shock, and his kidneys shut down for a short time. He had multiple seizures and required three blood transfusions. The doctors had to place a tube in his throat to help him breath and he was on a ventilator for more than two weeks.

Once his breathing tube was removed, he was unable to breathe on his own. The soft tissues in his throat had closed up around the tube and now the opening was too small to allow air to move freely in and out of his lungs. The doctors had to place a tracheostomy (an opening through the neck into the windpipe) so he could breathe.

For three years, Luis has had the hole in his neck to help him breathe. Without it he would suffocate. But the procedure to remove the scar tissue also requires reconstruction of his entire windpipe, making the surgery extremely difficult to perform, and there are no doctors in Honduras who can do it.

Luis' mother, Xiamara, has spent the past three years asking for help, hoping that Luis could have the surgery done in Mexico or in the United States. But she has not been able to get enough funds to make this possible.

When Xiamara heard that a group of ENT (ear, nose, and throat) doctors were coming from Loma Linda University Medical Center in California, she hoped that this could be the opportunity she had been looking for.

Rachelle Wareham, MD, a pediatric ENT specialist at LLU Health, performed the surgery on May 6, 2013, at the Adventist Hospital in Valley of the Angels, Honduras. This was the first time ever that this surgery has been performed in the country of Honduras. The surgery was successful, and Luis will now be able to slowly be weaned off of his tracheostomy and breathe fully on his own.

After the surgery, Luis was sitting on his hospital bed, a huge smile on his face while playing Angry Birds on Dr. Wareham's iPad. Xiamara thanked the team for their work, with tears of gratitude streaming from her eyes, while Luis continued to play on the iPad. The saddest part of being discharged home for him was that he couldn't take the iPad with him.

Jason Lohr, MD, has served in the mission field with his family at Ile-Ife Adventist Hospital, Nigeria, and Valle de Angeles, Honduras. Dr. Lohr now works at the SAC-Norton Clinic in San Bernardino.

]]>
Thu, 06 Jun 2013 11:24:52 -0700
4264:10689 <![CDATA[Prominent media spread LLU news about life-saving vegetarian diets]]> Heather Reifsnyder The headlines said it all this week:

“Vegetarians Live Longer Than Meat-Eaters, Study Finds” –The Wall Street Journal

“Vegetarian diet tied to fewer deaths over time” -Chicago Tribune

“Vegetarians May Live Longer” -Time

These and other media outlets—51 in total so far—reported new findings from LLU showing that vegetarian diets are associated with reduced risk of earlier death. Results were published this month in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine. 

“The evidence that vegetarian diets, or similar diets with reduced meat consumption, may be associated with a lower risk of death should be considered carefully by individuals as they make dietary choices and by those offering dietary guidance,” concludes the study, written by Michael J. Orlich, MD, and other colleagues in LLU School of Public Health and School of Medicine.

The study of more than 70,000 Seventh-day Adventists showed more favorable results for men than women. The data was drawn from the School of Public Health’s long-term Adventist Health Study-2.

Read some of the stories at the following links.

Time

http://healthland.time.com/2013/06/04/vegetarians-may-live-longer/?iid=ent-category-mostpop2

The Huffington Post

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/06/04/vegetarians-death-premature-longevity-live-longer_n_3380781.html

The Wall Street Journal

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424127887324423904578523190441042514.html

]]>
Thu, 06 Jun 2013 11:18:19 -0700
4264:10604 <![CDATA[Graduation in pictures: a happy day]]> The Schools of Dentistry, Medicine, and Pharmacy hosted their graduations Sunday, May 26, as seen in this photo essay.  

]]>
Thu, 30 May 2013 11:19:18 -0700
4264:10624 <![CDATA[Report of the LLUH Boards of Trustees, May 21-22]]> Larry Kidder The Board heard a report on the Center for Perinatal Biology, which recently celebrated its 40th anniversary. Since opening in 1973, the center has received more than $135 million in extramural funding, primarily from the National Institutes of Health; its researchers have published 1,448 scientific articles; and 135 graduate students, 176 postdoctoral fellows, and 212 medical students in research have been trained and participated in the research activities of the center. Special tribute was paid to the founding director, Lawrence D. Longo, MD, distinguished professor of basic sciences, and gynecology and obstetrics, as well as to Gordon G. Power, MD, professor of basic sciences, and gynecology and obstetrics. Lubo Zhang, PhD, professor of basic sciences and Faculty of Graduate Studies pharmacology member, has been serving as interim director of the center. Dr. Zhang was appointed director by the Loma Linda University Board of Trustees.

The LLU Board of Trustees approved the conferral of degrees and certificates to 1,379 graduates, awarded during commencement ceremonies for the Schools of Medicine, Pharmacy, and Dentistry on May 26, and the Schools of Behavioral Health, Religion, Nursing, Public Health, and Allied Health Professions on June 16.

The LLUH Boards listened to the story of how the Berlin Heart was successfully used recently to save the life of an infant at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital. In dire need of a heart transplant, a tiny baby girl was hooked up to the Berlin Heart, which is designed to function like a human heart until a replacement heart can be procured. The baby girl received her heart transplant, and is now home and doing well.

LLU Children’s Hospital continues with the process of obtaining a separate license. A recent meeting with the California Department of Public Health included a site visit that looked at basic services, such as surgical, pharmacy, emergency, and dietary services. The Loma Linda University Medical Center Board of Trustees voted to proceed with forming the corporation and filing the license application.

Members of the LLUH Boards of Trustees were able to tour the Women’s Cancer and Surgical Oncology Center on Wednesday, May 22. Board members enjoyed the “warm and calming feeling” and were “very impressed with the beautiful color selection.” One member especially “loved the Bible verses on the doors.” Another Board member felt it was “good to bring surgical oncology services into the Cancer Center,” and still another commented, “What a great program!” and asked, “How do we access the services in the Cancer Resource Center?”

The LLUH Boards learned the Campus Transformation Project is on track for 2020. The project is within budget, and planning and programming are nearly complete. The environmental impact report is in process and will be submitted to the Loma Linda City Council early this summer, and an architectural firm was approved by the LLUH Boards. The next major step will be selecting a general contractor, which should take place sometime during the third quarter of 2013.

Escrow on the 7.24-acre property set aside for the proposed San Bernardino City Campus was closed on April 26, 2013. This property, located on the corner of Valley Street and G Street in San Bernardino, will house a clinical outpatient and education complex that could serve up to 250,000 patients each year. The Board was apprised of next steps that include engaging a project manager to evaluate various space programs, begin the entitlement process, and prepare a request for proposal for architectural and design services.

Utility systems from the Central Plant have been identified for upgrading and expansion to support the campus facilities master plan for 2028. It is expected that utility system loads will increase by 30 to 80 percent by that year. A full-service engineering firm was commissioned to investigate what options are available to meet campus needs in the future. Among utilities analyzed were chilled water, steam, electric power, and domestic water system sources. The firm determined current campus utility loads, in addition to projecting future loads, which will aid significantly in campus planning.

]]>
Thu, 30 May 2013 11:44:46 -0700
4264:10615 <![CDATA[Nominate LLUH employees who are living whole]]> Larry Kidder The Living Whole employee wellness program is looking for employees to highlight and acknowledge. Honorees will be nominated by fellow employees.

“This is an opportunity for employees of Loma Linda University Health to nominate and recognize colleagues who are living whole,” explains Olivia Moses, DrPH, coordinator of the LLUH employee wellness program. “Last year for example, nominees included individuals who lost weight, ran marathons, started walking groups, and organized healthy potlucks in their offices.”

Ideal honorees will have made a commitment to improving personal life habits and/or advocating for better health among their colleagues.

The deadline for entries is June 7, 2013. Living Whole honorees will receive a certificate, a Living Whole gift, and have their photo posted on the Living Whole website.

The nomination process is easy. Fill out the nomination form attached to this story and e-mail it to livingwhole@llu.edu; or print out the attached form, fill it out, and fax it to extension 14170; or send your completed form via intercampus mail to: Department of Risk Management, Attn: Living Whole, LLUAHSC 101 Building.

]]>
Thu, 30 May 2013 11:25:43 -0700
4264:10601 <![CDATA[Professor awarded Fulbright scholarship to do research in United Kingdom]]> Heather Reifsnyder The U.S. Department of State and the J. William Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board have announced that Steven M. Yellon, PhD, professor of basic sciences and gynecology & obstetrics in the LLU School of Medicine, has been awarded a Fulbright Scholar grant.

Dr. Yellon will do research at the Queen’s Medical Research Institute’s Center for Reproductive Health at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland, United Kingdom, during the 2013–2014 academic year. Fulbright scholar awards to the United Kingdom in the All Disciplines category are among the most competitive for applicants.

Dr. Yellon hopes the research may lead to knowledge that could someday reduce premature births and other complications of labor. 

“An alarming increase in preterm births and difficulties with labor require medical interventions in more than 40 percent of births in the United States and other developed countries, and the problem is of even greater concern in developing nations,” he says.

Dr. Yellon’s research will specifically center on changes in the cervix that can advance or impede the birth process. He will collaborate with Professor Jane E. Norman, MD, director of the Tommy’s Centre for Maternal and Fetal Research, in basic and translational studies of the inflammatory mechanism that remodels the cervix during pregnancy.

Dr. Yellon is one of only about 25 U.S. faculty and professionals who will travel to the United Kingdom as Fulbright scholars, and his award is also a rare distinction among faculty members throughout Loma Linda University’s 108-year history.

Besides the direct findings of his research next year, Dr. Yellon believes that the exchange year will result in lasting benefits to students of Loma Linda University and the University of Edinburgh.

“I hope to build a network of understanding among world-class basic and clinical researchers and their trainees,” he says, “as well as to serve the mission of LLU by representing the highest qualities of scholarship during my time at the University of Edinburgh. 

“It is my goal,” he adds, “to bring back insights about research infrastructure, medical education, and clinical programs to further my contribution to the academic environment at LLU.”

Specifically, he hopes the collaboration with British researchers will advance Loma Linda University goals that include starting a maternal/fetal medicine research fellowship, establishing a tissue bank for research at the Perinatal Institute, and developing a research division in the LLU Center for Perinatal Biology.

Dr. Yellon sees the year ahead as a cross-cultural pollination of varied academic traditions.

Such exchange is the mission of the Fulbright Program, which is designed to increase mutual understanding between the peoples of the United States and other countries while contributing to solutions to shared international concerns. In addition to this, Dr. Yellon hopes to be an ambassador of Loma Linda University’s values and mission.

Since its establishment in 1946 under legislation introduced by the late U.S. Senator J. William Fulbright of Arkansas, the Fulbright Program has given approximately 310,000 students, scholars, teachers, artists, and scientists this opportunity.

]]>
Thu, 30 May 2013 10:44:47 -0700
4264:10628 <![CDATA[Featured video-Celebrating our rich history]]> Advancement Films ]]> Loma Linda University Health played a pivotal role in the history of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. As the Church marks its 150th anniversary, LLUH's rich history continues to inspire and shape others to this day. John Burden, Newton Evans, Oran Cutler, Alfred Shryock, and Ellen White: they were the pioneers who lived our mission, "to make man whole." After more than 100 years of service, Loma Linda University Health continues to celebrate their legacy.

]]>
Thu, 30 May 2013 11:48:57 -0700
4264:10630 <![CDATA[Live It campaign ebook debuts on VIP]]> Kelly Phipps Want to stay up-to-date with our national branding campaign, Live It? Check out the resource page on VIP. You’ll have access to the flipbook, video, and the complete branding booklet.

http://vip.mc.llumc.edu/vip/General/Organizational-Initiatives/Branding-Campaign/Index.page

 

]]>
Thu, 30 May 2013 11:58:02 -0700
4264:10410 <![CDATA[Commencement 2013 speakers announced]]> Larry Kidder The shade structures are installed on the south campus mall—a sure sign that graduation ceremonies for Loma Linda University’s eight schools are here. Close to 1,500 graduates are preparing for their march into history as the class of 2013.

Baccalaureate services will take place during the first and second church services at the LLU Church of Seventh-day Adventists on two Saturdays, May 25 and June 15. Commencement ceremonies will follow on May 26 and June 16.

The first round of commencements, on May 26, will feature the School of Medicine, School of Pharmacy, and School of Dentistry, and will take place on the south campus mall facing the Coleman and Chan Shun Pavilions, and between the LLU Church and Prince Hall.

A second round of ceremonies will take place on June 16 in LLU Drayson Center, the campus wellness and recreational facility. The School of Behavioral Health and School of Religion ceremony will be followed by School of Nursing, School of Public Health, and School of Allied Health Professions commencements.

Jeffrey D. Cao, MD, director of the LLU School of Medicine’s pathology teaching program, will lead off the 2013 commencement season, speaking to the School of Medicine class of 2013. Dr. Cao also serves as medical director for the microbiology sections of the laboratories at Loma Linda University Heart & Surgical Hospital, Highland Springs clinics, and LLU Medical Center. He is a favorite teacher for many medical school graduates and received the Walter E. Macpherson Society Teacher of the Year Award, as well as multiple Outstanding Teacher Awards.

Randy Roberts, DMin, MDiv, MA, senior pastor of the LLU Church, will speak to graduates of the School of Pharmacy. Prior to his current post, Dr. Roberts served LLU Medical Center as a chaplain as well as an associate dean and professor in the School of Religion, then pastored the Corona Seventh-day Adventist Church.

George A. Zarb, DDS, MS, emeritus professor with the Faculty of Dentistry, University of Ontario, Canada. Recently retired from a 40-year academic career, Dr. Zarb served as professor and head of prosthodontics at the University of Toronto. He currently holds the post of editor-in-chief of the International Journal of Prosthodontics.

Keris Jän Myrick, PhD, MBA, MS, who currently serves as president of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) board of directors, will address graduates of the School of Behavioral Health and School of Religion. Dr. Myrick also leads the Project Return Peer Support Network (PRPSN) as executive director. This Los Angeles-based countrywide network organizes peer support groups and services operated by and for mental health clients.

School of Nursing graduates will hear Elizabeth Johnston Taylor, PhD, MSN, associate professor of nursing, during their commencement ceremony. As a published author, researcher, and educator, Dr. Taylor emphasizes the roles of religion, prayer, and spiritual nurture in the recovery process from cancer and other physical and mental health challenges.

Ian Lapp, PhD, MA, associate dean for strategic educational initiatives and faculty member, School of Public Health, Harvard University, will speak to graduates of the School of Public Health. His initiatives have included “Roadmap to 2013,” an educational strategy and implementation process that, it is believed, will define the future of public health higher education, as well as guide the next century of public health at Harvard School of Public Health.

Richard L. Neil, MD, MPH, will address School of Allied Health Professions graduates during their commencement ceremony. An alumnus and former member of the faculty at Loma Linda University, Dr. Neil has presented seminars to corporate, community, and government organizations in the areas of stress, nutrition, human resources, and health promotion.

]]>
Wed, 22 May 2013 11:12:41 -0700
4264:10463 <![CDATA[Featured video - Grow Together]]> Advancement Films ]]> Grow Together is Loma Linda University Health’s employee giving program which invites staff to donate to Loma Linda projects or programs that are meaningful to them.

Gifts can be any amount and given at any time. What is it you are passionate about? To give online, please visit www.llu.edu/giving. For more information, please contact Amanda Perry at (909) 558-5357 or alperry@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 23 May 2013 10:32:30 -0700
4264:10462 <![CDATA[Loma Linda Farmer's Market coming to campus every Tuesday]]> Kelly Phipps Beginning Tuesday, June 4, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., an on-campus Loma Linda Farmer’s Market will provide fresh healthy produce for the students, staff, and community, located at Anderson and Mound Streets and sponsored by Loma Linda University Health and the Loma Linda Chamber of Commerce.

While the market is open to the public June 4, the official grand opening will be June 11, when attendees can mingle and enjoy healthful food, as well as purchase fresh produce and fruits all grown in San Bernardino and Riverside.

These Tuesday evening Loma Linda Farmer's Markets will be in addition to the Sunday Farmer's Market on Barton Road.

Finding healthy ways to come together as a community is yet another way Loma Linda University Health is promoting wholeness.

]]>
Thu, 23 May 2013 10:27:48 -0700
4264:10405 <![CDATA[Ergonomics--fitting the workplace to the employee]]> Larry Kidder Employed Americans ages 25 to 54, with children under age 18, spend an average of 8.8 hours at work during non-holiday workdays, according to the annual 2011 Bureau of Labor Statistics “American Time Use Survey.”

That’s the largest portion of the day, says the survey, with the category of sleeping at 7.6 hours and all other activities 2.5 hours or less.

For many U.S. employees, that translates to working at a desk. While there is no getting around this reality of life, there are ways to reduce the fatigue and pain of long workdays. Less pain and fatigue translates to better productivity—and better morale.

“Many times, there are fairly minor adjustments that can be made to help an employee be more comfortable at work,” points out Lynn Thornstrom, certified ergonomics assessment specialist, department of risk management and abilities accommodation, Loma Linda University Shared Services.

“You shouldn’t feel pain after a day of work,” she continues. “That does not have to be a natural consequence of putting in a good day’s work.”

Ms. Thornstrom spends much of her time following up with employee complaints of pain and discomfort, often related to worker’s compensation claims. “That’s too late,” she insists. “If the employee’s workstation is initially set up to best fit him or her, the worker’s compensation claim can be avoided.”

And so she often carries a simple toolkit with her. It contains most of the tools she would need to make adjustments to an office chair—one of the top reasons why employees develop painful symptoms due to poor posture.

“My favorite part of the job is prevention,” Ms. Thornstrom explains. “I love it when I can educate employees and managers about good ergonomics. That way, I can save the institution major dollars, while at the same time improving the quality of life for employees. Everybody wins.”

Ms. Thornstrom, who worked for a decade or so as an ergonomics consultant, is concerned when some managers think that major costs will automatically ensue following her visit to their area. It’s true that more than a simple chair adjustment may be required in some cases. A new chair may be needed, or even a keyboard tray or footrest.

“To me, that’s a small price to pay for a faithful employee who puts in long hours working diligently for the institution,” she shares. “Actually, I would love to be a part of the workplace design process in the first place, so that the same dollars could be used to purchase ergonomically sound equipment in the first place.”

Office chairs are critical to good ergonomics. They should be fully adjustable and provide good support to the back. The height of the desk has a major impact as well. “Desktops that are too high make it absolutely necessary for employees to have keyboard trays,” she details. “Since every employee comes in a different size and shape, a good keyboard tray can make all the difference.”

Lighting is an often-overlooked part of ergonomics. “Too much light creates major eye strain when viewing a monitor all day,” Ms. Thornstrom informs. “It is better to lower the overall light and accommodate the younger eyes, then provide personal lights to those who need them for desktop/paperwork.”

Before managers imagine their workplace budgets ballooning out of control, Ms. Thornstrom is quick to make an important point. “Lighting under the overhanging storage cupboards is a poor investment in almost every case,” she suggests. “Instead, invest in personal work lights. The institution will save money in the long run, and aging eyes will have the extra light needed to avoid eye strain.”

A footrest may also be beneficial to some employees. By taking pressure off the feet, back pain and other forms of discomfort can be reduced or eliminated.

“I am working to develop a list of ergonomically sound equipment for the institution,” Ms. Thornstrom confides. “Too often, we take the word of a salesperson when it comes to selecting furniture and equipment. We have to remind ourselves that his or her motivations are to move merchandise and make a profit.”

Ms. Thornstrom recognizes her personal limitations. “There are 18,000-plus employees in Loma Linda University Health and only one of me,” she admits. “That’s why I believe that I can have the greatest positive impact educating our employees and managers about the benefits of good ergonomics, and help them create better workstations and working habits in the first place.”

]]>
Wed, 22 May 2013 08:59:44 -0700
4264:10351 <![CDATA[Loma Linda University Health - Understanding who we are]]> Advancement Films ]]> The new brand for Loma Linda University and Loma Linda University Medical Center is now Loma Linda University Health. But what does this mean for you?

]]>
Thu, 16 May 2013 12:14:00 -0700
4264:10349 <![CDATA[Audio preview: free classical music concert Sunday]]> ]]> Listen to this clip of what you can enjoy when Loma Linda University Health hosts the San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra in a free concert at 5:00 p.m., Sunday, May 19, on the Campus Mall (the lawn between University Church and Prince Hall).

Seating at the concert is first-come-first-serve. Concertgoers are encouraged to bring a blanket if they wish to sit on the lawn. They may also bring a picnic basket, although food will be available to purchase from vendors. For more information, call (909) 558-1000.

]]>
Thu, 16 May 2013 11:44:14 -0700
4264:10347 <![CDATA[Announcing <i>USS Connect </i>]]> Nancy Blaire Beginning May 16, 2013, Loma Linda University Shared Services (LLUSS) will have its own news site. This new central information portal will serve to facilitate effective two-way communication with the campus community. Many departments have posted news and announcements in On Campus or VIP, and these sites will continue to be utilized. However, USS Connect will facilitate even better communication within Shared Services departments and between the rest of the organization. Additionally, news and announcements from USS Connect will be featured in News of the Week.

“In our vision statement we commit to be customer-driven, to work together to deliver service excellence, to be effective stewards of resources, and to exceed customer expectations,” says Kevin J. Lang, MBA, president & CEO of LLU Shared Services. “Effective and efficient communication is imperative to the achievement of these goals.”

USS Connect will share news and announcements highlighting accomplishments, departmental innovations, need-to-know items, and key performance outcomes that illustrate how USS departments add value to the campus community. An ongoing column featuring individual employees will share stories about living the mission of Loma Linda University Health, “to make man whole.”

As part of the Shared Services commitment to exceed customer expectations, USS Connect will serve as a helpful and relevant information resource for the campus community.

To submit stories to USS Connect, please send your article to your vice president or dean for approval. Administrators can forward approved stories to Nancy Blaire at ext. 48171, or e-mail at nblaire@llu.edu. These stories may be edited for length and content.

]]>
USS Connect.]]> Thu, 16 May 2013 11:42:25 -0700
4264:10328 <![CDATA[Tell us: What makes LLU Health special?]]> Renee Giroth At LLU Health, amazing things happen every day—research and discovery and giving the best care to our patients and best education to our students.

In an effort to tell our story and keep track of all the wonderful things that are taking place on campus, we are creating a central database of our “first, best, most, and only’s.” These can be procedures, research, accolades, or other things that help set our institution apart.

We want to hear about projects in your areas that stand out. If you would like to share a first, best, most, or only with us, please download and return the form below. 

]]>
Thu, 16 May 2013 10:24:16 -0700
4264:10318 <![CDATA[Photos: Australian animals visiting campus draw crowds]]> Heather Reifsnyder Can a cane toad swallow its eyes? Rick Schwartz, ambassador of the San Diego Zoo, fielded fun questions from kids during his presentation Wednesday, May 15, at Loma Linda University Health featuring a koala, red kangaroo, blue-tongued skinks, and other animals of the Australian Outback.

Mr. Schwartz and his colleagues brought the animals to campus as part of a tour promoting the zoo’s forthcoming new exhibit, the Conrad Prebys Australian Outback. It opens May 24. Other stops on the tour include Salt Lake City, Tucson, and San Jose.

Want to visit the new exhibit when it opens? The office of student affairs sells tickets to the San Diego Zoo at a discounted rate for students, staff, faculty, and alumni. More information is available at <http://www.llu.edu/students/student-affairs>.

 

]]>
Thu, 16 May 2013 09:18:06 -0700
4264:10196 <![CDATA[San Diego Zoo to show animals from new exhibit on LLU campus]]> The San Diego Zoo is visiting Loma Linda University Health this coming Wednesday, May 15, and bringing some furry and feathered friends to promote the zoo’s newest exhibit, the Conrad Prebys Australian Outback.

San Diego Zoo Ambassador Rick Schwartz will give a presentation with Australian animals to promote the new exhibit that opens at the zoo on Memorial Day weekend.

Scheduled to come are animals such as a koala, red kangaroo, kookaburra, blue-tongued skink, and cane toad.

Australian Outback will be a new home for the zoo’s 22 Queensland koalas, the largest colony outside of Australia. The three-acre exhibit will include other Australian marsupials such as wombats as well as aviaries filled with Australian birds. 

WHEN:         May 15, 2013, noon to 2 p.m.

WHERE:       Loma Linda University campus mall between University Church and Prince Hall.

COST:          This is a free, public event. 

]]>
Thu, 09 May 2013 11:58:10 -0700
4264:10179 <![CDATA[Notes from the President - May 2013]]> Richard Hart, MD, DrPH

IN THIS ISSUE
A great Loma Linda tradition

My last patient took longer than anticipated, so I was late as I headed across campus several Thursdays ago. Slipping into the back of the University Church, I could see the program was underway. Some of our students had already met their special guests, showing them about campus and helping them find seats in the sanctuary. The last 10 or 15 rows had been roped off, so the front two thirds of the church were completely full. I lifted the rope and sat down behind the last row of guests. I could tell that most of those present had never been in our church before. They were sitting in family groups and had come to say farewell once again.

This was the annual Memorial Service of our “Bodies for Science” program. Over the last three quarters, our students and their instructors had been carefully dissecting and studying the loved ones of these family members. Students from medicine, dentistry, occupational and physical therapy, and nurse anesthesia programs were talking about the “teacher” with whom they had become intimately acquainted as they worked their way through his or her muscles, nerves, vessels, and organs. They had taken careful note of the normal and unusual, the scars left from life, the organs repaired, and the disease processes that had finally claimed each life. Some of our students were now speaking of the impact on their own lives of these most valued “teachers.”

The printed program listed each person only by his or her date of death and occupation. From homemaker to mechanic, physician to teacher, pilot to cashier, you could see the vast diversity of those who had voluntarily indicated they wanted to donate their bodies for this last act of service to humanity. I could see the families of the deceased look quickly through the 170 dates and careers listed in the program and nod in agreement as they recognized their loved one on the list. Tears came freely as they remembered once more the one they had lost—that loss now balanced with a renewed appreciation for the gift their loved ones had given to our students and medical science.

Organized by our anatomy professor, Dr. Bertha Escobar-Poni, this was the 19th annual Memorial Service at Loma Linda. We have nearly 5,000 people who have registered to donate their bodies to this program when they die. Each year, some 170 bodies are delivered to our anatomy lab after personal funeral ceremonies, where they are embalmed and used during the school year. When the dissection is completed, the bodies are cremated and the ashes can be returned to the family. This service commemorates a selfless act of giving, with a thank you to those families who participated in the gift.

My mind went back six or seven years when we were making decisions about the Centennial Complex. A number of medical schools were shifting from dissecting real cadavers to having “virtual” anatomy labs—computers loaded with programs to enable you to “dissect” through the body’s systems on the screen. Faster, easier, and certainly cheaper, these programs probably gave a student the ability to pass anatomy exams just as well as dissecting real bodies. But there is something very sacred about working on a real person—one who had walked the path of life, loved others, struggled with many issues, and finally offered his or her body for the benefit of medical science. Our students certainly caught that difference as they eloquently thanked the family members of their “teacher” for what that person had meant personally to them. I was thankful we had made the decision to build a major new anatomy laboratory in the Centennial Complex. I was particularly thankful to Dr. Bill and Rose Swatek, whose gift had provided this laboratory.

As the first students completed their tributes, others came forward to play “It Is Well With My Soul,” recognizing God’s guidance in life. Then more students shared poems, humorous incidents, and passionate comments about how this experience had changed their understanding of life and their appreciation for the marvels of the human body. This was followed by 21 students each saying “thank you” in their native tongue, including some languages I had never heard. As they finished speaking, “We Thank You” was played on the organ while students gave rose buds to the family members, sharing hugs and tears.

As the program was closing, the audience stood for the playing of taps and a moment of silence. What a testimony to those present as they sensed that the benefits of this “anatomy lesson” would be carried in the minds and hearts of these young professionals to many countries and patients for years to come. After a final orchestral and vocal rendition of “Amazing Grace” by the students, followed by closing prayer, we were each left with a profound feeling of the value of life and the sacredness of the healing professions in serving others. I exited quietly through a side door, dabbing my own eyes.

Sincerely,

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

Office of the President, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350

Copyright © 2013 by Loma Linda University

llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 09 May 2013 10:40:34 -0700
4264:10188 <![CDATA[The difference nurses make: National Nurses Week, May 6 to 12]]> This letter from a patient’s mother reminds us that the work of exceptional nurses does not go unnoticed.

To Whom It May Concern:

My son, Edmund, is a severely disabled man who has become a patient at Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta more times than many others. He was most recently treated in the ER on March 31, 2013, in the late afternoon/evening.

I have often noticed around the hospital cards to be filled out that say something to the effect that they can be used to recognize an employee who embodies the values of the hospital. Although there are many good employees at your hospital, I never encountered one who epitomized your values until my son’s treatment on March 31.

We then had the good fortune to meet Mike, a floater RN in the ER who apparently had a day shift and left around 7:00 p.m. I hope this gives you enough information with which to identify this man, because he is a nurse you should value and hang on to.

I have never met anyone before who made me feel as though he was truly concerned about strengthening the body, mind, and spirit, not only of the patient but of the family, as well. He was also incredibly knowledgeable, efficient, and kind.

He was just the sort of employee whose face should appear beside your statement of values, and I hope you can identify him and give him our thanks for being such a wonderful nurse.

Thanks very much.

Sincerely,

Marilyn

Note: Some details have been changed to protect the family’s identity.

Loma Linda University Health and its affiliates are proud to recognize nurses everywhere during National Nurses Week. We salute the dedication and commitment of all nurses within our organization and nationwide.

 
]]>
Thu, 09 May 2013 11:27:00 -0700
4264:10190 <![CDATA[Moody's Investors Service raises credit outlook for Loma Linda University]]> Dustin Jones In a report dated May 7, 2013, Moody’s Investors Service affirmed the A3 debt rating on the series 2007 fixed-rate revenue bonds held by Loma Linda University. The outlook was revised to stable from negative.

The report states that the rating is based on “multi-year improvements in operating performance, including significant expense reduction and growth of net tuition revenue, and growth of financial resources.”

"We are pleased with the revised outlook from Moody’s," says Rodney Neal, MBA, senior vice president for financial affairs, LLU. "The upgrade from negative to stable reflects strengthened multi-year operating performance, positive investment results, and strong student demand for our professional programs and curricular offerings. The deans and finance officers have worked hard to contain costs and grow their asset base to enhance mission. The upgrade is recognition of these efforts and comes at a time when University net assets are at an all-time high."

The full report can be accessed at http://www.moodys.com/research/Moodys-affirms-Loma-Linda-Universitys-CA-A3-rating-on-Series--PR_272690

]]>
Thu, 09 May 2013 11:33:28 -0700
4264:10182 <![CDATA[Oasis: A Day of Renewal for All Employees, Tuesday, May 14]]> Thu, 09 May 2013 11:15:36 -0700 4264:10192 <![CDATA[Featured video - The Mend Program]]> Advancement Films ]]> This program is designed to support the patient and his or her family in maintaining or regaining emotional health and balance during the process of a significant medical illness or treatment such as transplantation, diabetes management, or chemotherapy.

]]>
Thu, 09 May 2013 11:44:43 -0700
4264:10052 <![CDATA[Enjoy an evening of music: San Bernardino Symphony to perform on LLU campus mall]]> Nancy Yuen On Sunday, May 19, the strains of Mozart’s Overture to the Magic Flute; Brahms’ Violin Concerto; and Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 will delight listeners on the LLU campus mall, between Prince Hall and the LLU Church of Seventh-day Adventists.

Hosted by LLU Health, the San Bernardino Symphony will perform its final concert of the 2012-2013 season. The program will begin at 5:00 p.m. and will conclude at 6:45 p.m.; it is complimentary to employees, faculty, students, and their families. The community is also invited to attend this very special event. Attendees are welcome to picnic, and food for purchase will also be available. Seating will be on a first come, first served basis.

“The timing of this free concert,” says Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of LLU Health, “fits nicely with the launch of our new national ‘Live It’ branding campaign by offering the gift of music to our Loma Linda family and our surrounding communities.”

The guest artist for the performance is the American violinist Lindsay Deutsch.

]]>
Thu, 02 May 2013 11:06:46 -0700
4264:10062 <![CDATA[There's a new name for the future of health care: Loma Linda University Health]]> Dustin Jones In the next few weeks, every employee of Loma Linda University Health will receive a package in the mail. The information that is being sent is important—both to you and to the institution. It is about our new name and brand, Loma Linda University Health, and we wanted you to be the first to know about it.

Thank you for your commitment to this organization and playing an important role in this significant step.

]]>
Thu, 02 May 2013 11:32:34 -0700
4264:10066 <![CDATA[Jack Rose named executive director, LLUH Web Center]]> Nancy Yuen Jack Rose, MBA, has been named executive director of the Loma Linda University Health Web Center.

For the past seven months, Mr. Rose has filled a significant leadership role on an interim basis to start the new Web Center, which is designed to centralize system-wide web functions—both internal and external—under one roof.

“The Web Center will allow us to consolidate web-based activities across the university and health care entities to present a consistent message that establishes LLUH as a world-class academic medical center,” says Mr. Rose.

Mr. Rose brings a wealth of experience to his new role, most recently serving as director of enterprise project management at LLU Medical Center. Before joining Loma Linda in August 2010, he held key leadership positions in IT, project management, and financial management in the banking, manufacturing, and public sector industries.

“Under Jack’s leadership,” says Tony Yang, MBA, assistant vice president for public affairs, LLUH, “Loma Linda University Health will continue to build a foundation that will enhance our presence on the world stage as a global leader in wellness and prevention, education, research, and clinical care through a coordinated web strategy.”

The LLUH Web Center also provides key intranet access and services for the organization’s more than 13,500 employees and more than 4,600 students. It is under the co-leadership of Mr. Yang, and Mark Zirkelbach, MPA, chief information officer, LLU Health System; with Mr. Yang and Mr. Zirkelbach reporting to the Web Center Steering Committee, co-chaired by Kevin Lang, MBA, executive vice president for finance and administration/CFO, LLUH, and Rachelle Bussell, CFRE, senior vice president for advancement, LLUH, with members representing LLU, LLUMC, and physician practice groups.

As LLUH begins a national branding campaign, the Web will play a critical role in providing up-to-date and targeted information, as well as a more efficient way for its many audiences to interact with LLUH.

Six other positions in the Web Center have already been filled. Jennifer Hickok, web intranet director; Kenneth Kim, MHA, search engine marketing manager; Libu Varghese, MS, web developer; Brian Weed, MA, social media coordinator; Krista Miller, web designer; and Ling Ling Chao, user interface designer, have transitioned to the Web Center. Mr. Rose will lead the search to fill the other remaining 10 positions.

The LLUH Web Center will be located in Mountain View Plaza, suite 129, and will reside in the space most recently occupied by the LLEAP transitional team. Mr. Rose may be reached by email, jrose@llu.edu, or at ext. 33217.

]]>
Thu, 02 May 2013 11:45:11 -0700
4264:10053 <![CDATA[Study values largest LLU Health social media presence in millions]]> Dustin Jones A recent empirical study reveals that the value of a Facebook fan in key consumer categories has increased 28 percent to $174 since 2010. The results value Loma Linda University’s Facebook page, LLU Health’s largest social media presence, with more than 18,600 fans, at $3.2 million.

The study, from Syncapse in partnership with Hotspex, found that fan counts have doubled or even tripled since 2010, magnifying even a slight increase in the value of an average fan.

Facebook fans and non-Facebook fans were compared based on brand loyalty, propensity to recommend, media value, and brand affinity, among other factors.

For more information, the study can be downloaded at http://www.syncapse.com/value-of-a-facebook-fan-2013.

]]>
Thu, 02 May 2013 11:17:21 -0700
4264:10031 <![CDATA[Flying motocross riders help sick kids dream of soaring]]> Briana Pastorino Hundreds of spectators filled the sidewalk and entryway to Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital for the Freestyle Motocross (FMX) demo on Tuesday, April 30. The 10th Annual Big Air Kids Fair was intended for patients at the hospital, but even the adult patients, staff members, visitors, and students from Loma Linda Academy made their way to the hospital to see the free show.

The event was made possible by Big Air Kids Fair founder Steve Bauer and his partner, Jeff Tilton. “This is more than an FMX show for us. It’s a chance to bring some much needed smiles to these kids’ faces,” Mr. Bauer says. “We appreciate LLU Children’s Hospital for giving us the opportunity to do this for the past 10 years.”

Hospital administrator Zareh Sarrafian, MBA, agrees that this is a great way to brighten the patients’ day. “This is a fun break from the daily strife that many of our patients experience. It’s an opportunity for the kids to get outside and have some fun with their families.”

FMX riders Jesse Jolson and Luke Dolin stole the show with their flips and tricks in front of the hospital. 

Ed Wilson of the racing organization Fire & Police Motocross supports the Big Air Kids Fair annually, and this year was no different. To go along with the show, he purchased a myriad of items for the unit playrooms such as a Wii console, portable DVD players, headphones, CD players, and a TV.

Los Angeles chief of police Charlie Beck, an avid motocross racer himself, was unable to attend but was well-represented by a contingent of officers who brought in dual-sport bikes and their usual street bikes for the kids to sit on and take pictures with. Officer Rob Cosner also presented a $500 check to LLU Children’s Hospital on behalf of the LAPD “Cops for Tots” in support of the event.

Former professional Motocross rider Steve Bauer founded the Big Air Kids Fair in 2003 as a way for the Motocross industry to give back to the community. Since then, the hospital has welcomed Steve and a handful of the world’s greatest motocross racers as they tour the hospital, handing out gifts such as T-shirts, hats, toys, and posters to the children and their families.

In 2005, Steve contacted Jeff Tilton to add a FMX demo to the event. The sight of the athletes performing tricks on their 220-pound machines just a few feet outside the second story window was such a huge hit with the patients, families, and hospital staff that the Big Air Kids Fair is now one of the most highly anticipated events of the year at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital.

Additional photos from the Big Air Kids Fair are available for download at www.facebook.com/llumc.childrenshospital

 

Photos by Jim Ponder

]]>
Thu, 02 May 2013 10:36:30 -0700
4264:10057 <![CDATA[PossAbilities Triathlon honors Boston Marathon tragedy victims]]> Larry Kidder More than 800 physically challenged and able-bodied athletes observed a moment of silence at the starting line to remember the victims of the Boston Marathon tragedy.

The 11th annual Loma Linda University PossAbilities Triathlon took place Sunday, April 28, beginning at 7:00 a.m., and included a 3.1-mile run, 11-mile bike ride, and 150-yard swim.

In addition, a kids’ triathlon featured quarter-mile runs and bike rides, as well as a 25-yard swim. A bounce house provided a fun obstacle during the race.

Triathlon participants wore the Boston Marathon colors on their identification bibs. Physically challenged athletes—many of them amputees—honored the victims of the Boston Marathon tragedy with words of comfort, encouragement, and inspiration following the race.

The fastest adult athletes in various categories were made up of: overall male, Connor Sousa; overall female, Julie Ertel; male pro, Jose Jeuland; female pro, Julie Ertel; male basketball chair, Steve Hoffman; male race chair, Scott Parson; male other, Fermin Camarena; male moderate leg, Nick Roumonada; female moderate leg, Umida Lesicko; male arm impairment, Tony Troccoli; female arm impairment, Katrina Taylor; male les autres, Jesse Ramos; male severe leg, Andre Barbieri; male hand cycle, Owen Daniels; and female hand cycle, Beth Sanden.

For the kids’ triathlon, the fastest boy in the 1-15 age category was Chad Nelson, and in the 16-19 category was Josh Rodriguez-Irons. The fastest girl in the 1-15 category was Ana Canpos; in the 16-19 category, Isi Ibarra finished first.

The annual PossAbilities Triathlon raises funds for the PossAbilities Program, a community outreach effort developed by Loma Linda University Medical Center – East Campus.

]]>
Thu, 02 May 2013 11:26:08 -0700
4264:10026 <![CDATA[Music video - Murrieta hospital shows germs the door]]> ]]> "Sweet Home Murrieta" - Where we wash our hands for you!

As this video shows, patients at Loma Linda University Medical Center - Murrieta can rest assured of clean care. 

]]>
Wed, 01 May 2013 04:30:27 -0700
4264:9944 <![CDATA[New name, new website]]> Heather Reifsnyder Loma Linda University Health, the new name uniting all six hospitals and eight schools, now has its own website at www.lluhealth.org.

From this webpage, visitors can learn about the clinical care, education, and research activities that allow LLU Health to fulfill its mission “to continue the teaching and healing ministry of Jesus Christ.”

The page also focuses on wellness outreach at LLU Health and is part of a national branding campaign to bring awareness to the campus. 

“Loma Linda now has the opportunity to share our message of health promotion and disease prevention with the global community,” says Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of LLU Health.

More information on the national branding campaign will follow in the coming weeks.

 

 

]]>
Wed, 24 Apr 2013 05:00:19 -0700
4264:9975 <![CDATA[Campus-wide disaster drill educates LLUH on response]]> Dustin Jones A campus-wide disaster drill for Loma Linda University Health occurred Thursday, April 25. The drill began at 9:45 a.m. to 10:15 for the university and concluded with a wrap-up session, while medical center and the incident commands continued until the drill suspended at approximately 11:00 a.m.

Titled “Code: Silver,” the drill focused on planning and responding to an active shooter on campus. Local law enforcement, Fire, and county EMS agencies, as well as Arrowhead Regional Medical Center played roles in the drill as support to the event. The primary location of the “shooter” event was in the Del Webb Memorial Library.

Members of the media were on hand to chronicle the drill, including KCAL 9, ABC LA 7, KESQ, and Inland Empire Weekly newspaper.

Faculty, students, and staff received notifications via text, email, and phone calls (If you have not set your preferences for notifications, please see http://myllu.llu.edu/profile/contactInfoEdit).

Additional information about the disaster drill can be found at http://vip.mc.llumc.edu/vip/General/Emergency-Preparedness-and-Response/Incident-Management-Status.page?.

]]>
Thu, 25 Apr 2013 11:35:20 -0700
4264:9959 <![CDATA[State-of-the-art 3-D x-ray machine unveiled at new clinic at Loma Linda University Medical Center]]> Briana Pastorino A new, state-of-the-art, 3-D x-ray machine housed at the new Orthopaedic Clinic at Loma Linda University Medical Center is the first of its kind in the Los Angeles Basin. The EOS ultra low dose, 2-D, 3-D imager is the first full body, low-dose imaging system—a total solution for orthopaedic imaging. LLU Medical Center’s is only the third one on the West Coast. 

“We are extremely thrilled to have this amazing technology available to our patients and medical staff,” says Gary Botimer, MD, chair of orthopaedics at LLU Medical Center. “The EOS x-ray machine allows our medical team to quickly get the most accurate, non-CT full body scan possible of the patient in just seconds, all at a highly reduced rate of radiation exposure.”

The EOS captures a whole or partial body image in a single scan without the need for stitching, all at an outstanding dose reduction. Research shows it delivers a radiation dose five to ten times lower than other conventional or digital x-ray equipment.

The system’s unique design allows physicians to not only image patients at an upright, weight-bearing position but to simultaneously capture a bi-plane image. A vertical drive mechanism moves a C-arm down the desired height of the patient or any desired subset of this length. The detector enables low dose image-capture, creating a whole body image within about 20 seconds for an adult and about half as long for pediatric patients. Digital images are immediately available on the 2-D workstation. The images are contiguous, uninterrupted, and require no stitching, which saves time while improving image accuracy for diagnosis and treatment planning.

A 3-D workstation is also available, designed to generate a 3-D skeletal image from the two planar images without any additional patient radiation exposure. The 3-D model is unique because it is weight-bearing, something currently unavailable even with CT.

“Seeing a scan of a patient in 3-D allows us such a greater opportunity to evaluate and treat our patients,” says Dr. Botimer. “It gives you so much more information than the more traditional x-rays.”

The ultra low dose EOS exams may be especially useful for patients with spinal disorders such as scoliosis—a spinal deformity condition affecting more than 900,000 people in the United States alone—as well as deformities of the upper or lower extremities.

The EOS machine is located at the new Orthopaedic Clinic at LLU Medical Center–East Campus at Professional Plaza, 25455 Barton Road, Suite 102B in Loma Linda.

To schedule an appointment at the new clinic, call (909) 558-2808.

]]>
Thu, 25 Apr 2013 10:14:11 -0700
4264:9973 <![CDATA[Epic Go-Live benefits from LLU Medical Simulation Center dry runs]]> Larry Kidder The Loma Linda University Medical Simulation Center played a key role in helping to address some key issues ahead of time for the Epic Go-Live on February 5.

A number of simulation scenarios helped expose potential problems and ease the process of switching the entire Loma Linda University Health System from paper to electronic medical records (EMR).

In the process, those responsible for implementing the Epic system were able to see the EMR system in action, adding to their anticipation and excitement. Scenarios simulated EMR transfers between various clinical areas and services.

A number of hardware, software, and training issues were addressed prior to the Go-Live, and unintended consequences of the EMR implementation were reduced.

In recognition of this unique approach, Drs. Corbett and Denmark and John Keith of the Epic team spoke at the Epic Academic Advisory Council on Monday, April 22.

]]>
Thu, 25 Apr 2013 11:32:46 -0700
4264:9963 <![CDATA[PossAbilities 11th Annual Triathlon scheduled for April 28]]> Dustin Jones The 11th annual PossAbilities Triathlon is scheduled for Sunday, April 28, at Drayson Center. All participants will receive official finish times and a finisher medal.

Prizes will be awarded in the categories of Challenged Athletes, Adult Triathlon, Kids Triathlon, 5k Run/Walk/Roll, Adult Triathlon LLU Student, Adult Triathlon Student Relay, and Adult Triathlon Relay.

Pre-registration closes Friday, April 26, at midnight. For more information, see the flyer at http://vip.mc.llumc.edu/vip/forms/General/Upcoming-Events/11th-Annual-PossAbilities-Triathlon.pdf

]]>
Thu, 25 Apr 2013 11:09:37 -0700
4264:9942 <![CDATA[Video - State of the art 3-D x-ray machine explained]]> Advancement Films ]]> Wed, 24 Apr 2013 04:42:05 -0700 4264:9961 <![CDATA[Loma Linda nut research continues to make international headlines]]> Heather Reifsnyder India is the latest country to report on research at Loma Linda University demonstrating the important health benefits of eating tree nuts. Read the story here.

http://www.newstrackindia.com/newsdetails/2013/04/23/84-Eating-tree-nuts-can-boost-health-and-cut-heart-disease-risk.html

]]>
Thu, 25 Apr 2013 10:18:18 -0700
4264:9831 <![CDATA[Campus-wide disaster drill scheduled for April 25]]> Dustin Jones A campus-wide disaster drill for Loma Linda University Health is scheduled for Thursday, April 25. The drill for the university will be from 9:45 a.m. to 10:15 and conclude with a wrap-up session, while medical center and the incident commands will continue until the drill suspends at approximately 11:00 a.m. 

“The MC and LLU disaster drill and training teams are leading the effort for timelines and drill and all areas have the opportunity to participate,” says Brett McPherson, emergency management supervisor for Loma Linda University Support Services. “Those areas that have major exams or challenges will be given the opportunity to take some online education after their primary responsibilities are taken care of.”

Titled “Code: Silver,” the drill will focus on planning and responding to an active shooter on campus. Local law enforcement, Fire, and county EMS agencies, as well as Arrowhead Regional Medical Center will have roles in the drill as support to the event. The primary location of the “shooter” event will be the Del Webb Memorial Library.

“We currently have an Emergency Protocol in our Emergency Operations Plan for Loma Linda on what we should do when presented with an active shooter,” says Mr. McPherson. “We have also gleaned information from those departments and areas that have been struck with these tragic events and lessons learned.”

The campus-wide drill is supported by LLU dean’s council and MC administration through the admin huddle.  

]]>
Thu, 18 Apr 2013 10:18:36 -0700
4264:9830 <![CDATA[Notes from the President - April 2013]]> Richard Hart, MD, DrPH

IN THIS ISSUE
Children's services at Loma Linda

The early records show a Dr. Dorothy Harbaugh as the first pediatrician at Loma Linda, teaching the first medical class in 1909. By 1919, pediatrics became an official section under the department of medicine, and remained that way until 1952, under four successive chairs—Albert Hill, E. E. Moody, Milo Brooks, and finally Robert Chinnock. Though only 32 when named chair, just eight years after graduating from LLU (then known as the College of Medical Evangelists), Dr. Chinnock was the first formally trained pediatrician at Loma Linda. He led pediatrics to become its own independent department in 1963. When I went through medical school here in the late 1960s, I fondly remember Dr. Chinnock, along with Drs. Hertha Ehlers, Naomi Pitman, and Jeanne Andrews, as our pediatric department. That was it. When we moved into the new hospital in 1967, there were only 10 beds for kids, with a small intensive care area. 

But Dr. Chinnock could see the potential for growth, and began recruiting the various subspecialists necessary for a modern department. After Dr. Chinnock’s untimely death in 1975, John Mace was named chair and continued this development. Over the subsequent 15 years, as it was increasingly recognized that children are not just little people, but have unique needs of their own, pediatric specialists were added in cardiology, neurology, endocrinology, pulmonology, nephrology, neonatology, hematology/oncology, infectious disease, gastroenterology, and critical care. By 1990, peds had truly come of age at Loma Linda, with nearly 150 faculty, including 60 full-time pediatricians. Both inpatient and outpatient services had grown immensely, pushing our capacity to its limit. It had truly become the destination of choice for any critical need among the 1.2 million children in the Inland Empire.

The genesis of new ideas is often difficult to later recall, but with Lyn Behrens, a pediatric pulmonologist, as dean of the School of Medicine and John Mace as chair of the department, it is not hard to imagine the conversations that began to circulate around our halls. Are we ready? How much will it cost? Where will we put it? Is there truly enough business? How big should it be? With a huge step of faith and commitment, the Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital was officially organized in 1992 with plans for a new facility to be attached to the south side of the Medical Center. The new building was completed in 1995, with 270 beds and one of the largest intensive care nurseries in the country with 84 beds. 


Those early questions were quickly answered, as Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital became the second busiest children’s hospital in California, with an average daily census of more than 250. The NICU is often crowded, with tiny bundles of life depending on the latest technology delivered by an incredibly dedicated and skilled staff from many disciplines. You can’t walk through that NICU without seeing the hopes and dreams of many parents dependent on the caring hands and hearts of the staff. Leadership of the department transferred to Richard Chinnock, the son of Robert, in 2003, when John Mace retired. Zareh Sarrafian has served for some years as administrator of Children’s Hospital.

Just as children’s services have grown at Loma Linda, many community hospitals and local pediatricians stepped out of specialized pediatric care, recognizing the incredible skill and resources necessary to do it right. This has pushed the demand for our Children’s Hospital even higher. A unit in the main hospital was recently converted to adolescent care, and the NICU is often straining with more than 80 premature or critically ill babies needing care. Outpatient clinics have also expanded, with the department providing assistance to many community programs. Every conceivable disease is cared for, with more than 50,000 different children seen each year, often multiple times. Such programs as the Children’s Assessment Center are supported by Loma Linda, which cares for all the child abuse cases in the Inland Empire. 

But now, less than 20 years since Children’s Hospital opened, the questions are surfacing again. Can we keep up with the demand? Should we do more? So many depend on us for quality pediatric care, but we need a larger facility. Where will the funds come from? Do we need more beds or just more efficient use of the space? We do need an expanded NICU. We now have 120 full-time pediatricians on staff, with another 60 joining us part-time, providing skills in all specialties. There are around 250 total medical staff supporting the Children’s Hospital. This is now our largest department in the School of Medicine. We serve a quarter of the geography of the state of California. In the current facility, 85 percent of our beds are in shared rooms, limiting our ability to care for the whole family and provide the best infection control. Current plans include increasing our percentage of private rooms substantially to address concerns surrounding infection control and privacy.

Loma Linda has also become a major training institution for pediatrics, with 66 pediatric residents in specialty training and another 16 combined internal medicine/pediatric residents. We have subspecialty fellowships in critical care, neonatology, emergency medicine, general surgery, and neurology. So we have become a destination of choice, not just for patients, but also for physicians, nurses, and others seeking the best training in pediatrics. This focus is strengthened by one of our largest research efforts on campus, with 12 full-time research staff supporting our pediatricians in a variety of clinical trials and basic science research.

We have known for some time that we need to build a new adult facility by 2020, due to California seismic requirements. Our Children’s Hospital was built more recently and meets all those requirements, but we need to convert our semi-private rooms to private rooms for more efficiency and better services. This is the new reality that has called us to consider expanding Children’s Hospital. We can incorporate what we already have in the current Children’s Hospital, but we need to prepare for continued growth in the Inland Empire, which continues to expand faster than any metropolitan area in California.    

So planning has begun. We envision a truly hybrid facility—incorporating the existing Children’s Hospital and its valuable space and resources, while also sharing some infrastructure with the planned adult hospital. Current thinking connects the new facility with the east side of the current Children’s Hospital, where the parking lot is now. We will need a new pediatric patient tower, expanded surgical and procedural capacity, and the kind of compassionate environment Loma Linda is known for. Richard Chinnock and his department are talking about a whole new concept—whole child care—that can integrate the hospital and our pediatricians with every home and community where these kids live. We feel we can do more to prevent disease, contributing to child development even in dysfunctional families. Loma Linda needs to truly provide this type of comprehensive care that will support parents and their children in becoming the best they can be. Please keep this project in your prayers as plans mature and move forward.

Regards,
Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

Office of the President, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350

Copyright © 2013 by Loma Linda University

llu.edu

]]>
Thu, 18 Apr 2013 10:15:35 -0700
4264:9839 <![CDATA[University librarian finishes Boston Marathon minutes before blast]]> Dustin Jones Warren Johns, PhD, finished the Boston Marathon on Monday, April 15, just minutes before the explosion that took the life of three individuals and injured more than 150 others. Dr. Johns was not injured.

Dr. Johns, a special collections librarian at LLU, ran the marathon four years ago and finished this year's marathon at 2:44 p.m. CNN reports that the initial reports of explosions occurred just after 2:45 p.m.

The Contra Costa Times printed a story on Dr. Johns that can be found at http://www.contracostatimes.com/california/ci_23039172/colton-runner-finished-boston-marathon-minutes-before-first

]]>
Thu, 18 Apr 2013 11:13:08 -0700
4264:9841 <![CDATA[Be a part of the next Loma Linda video]]> Patricia Kelikani Advancement Films would like to invite you to be in the next Loma Linda video. Send them a photo that shows how you are dedicated to wellness and living whole. This could be of you doing your favorite sport or hobby, a picture with your favorite food, spending time with friends and family, how you like to spend time with God, and any other way that you live a healthy lifestyle. E-mail your photo to films@llu.edu by April 25.

]]>
Thu, 18 Apr 2013 11:43:21 -0700
4264:9834 <![CDATA[Are Christians good stewards of the environment? Environmental Care Symposium at LLU next weekend]]> Herbert Atienza Loma Linda University department of earth and biological sciences is hosting “Entrusted: Christians and Environmental Care,” a unique symposium that explores Christians and environmental stewardship.

The event is set for April 26 and 27 at Loma Linda University Centennial Complex’s Damazo Amphitheater, Randall Amphitheater, and Loma Linda University Church. Cost at the door is $25, and $15 for students. Early registration at the website offers a $5 discount. The Saturday afternoon programs, including the family Vespers program, “Wild Minds: Animals that think” featuring live exotic animals, are free to the public.

“Recent studies suggest that Christians and those of other faith groups show measurably less interest in environmental and conservation issues than the public at large,” says William K. Hayes, PhD, professor of biology at Loma Linda University department of earth and biological sciences and organizer of the symposium.

“This first-of-its-kind symposium in the region seeks to stimulate discussion on how Christians can become more involved with environmental stewardship,” he says.

Speakers invited to the event include: Marianne Thieme, leader of the Dutch Party for Animals; Jo Ann Davidson, theologian at Andrews University; Steven M. Smith, geologist; and Gordon M. Burghardt, psychologist at University of Tennessee.

The symposium will also feature presentations by researchers on diverse topics such as Biblical perspectives, environmental ethics, human health and the environment, and biodiversity conservation.

For more information and to register early, go to: www.LomaLindaBiodiversity.org/Entrusted.

]]>
Thu, 18 Apr 2013 10:30:53 -0700
4264:9826 <![CDATA[Featured video-Believe Walk]]> Advancement Films ]]> Cancer patients celebrate survival in the annual Believe Walk event. 

]]>
Thu, 18 Apr 2013 10:02:16 -0700
4264:9820 <![CDATA[LLU study cited for reason to go vegan for Earth Day]]> Dustin Jones An article by Heather Moore was posted at the Miami Herald website on Wednesday, April 17, that makes a case for why people should go vegan to celebrate Earth Day, which is April 22. 

The article cites a Loma Linda University article, saying "vegans have the smallest carbon footprint generating 41 percent fewer greenhouse gasses than meat eaters and 13 percent fewer than vegetarians. 

The complete article, "Vegan is the 'new green' for Earth Day," can be accessed at http://www.miamiherald.com/2013/04/16/3346998/vegan-is-the-new-green-for-earth.html

]]>
Thu, 18 Apr 2013 09:22:09 -0700
4264:9715 <![CDATA[Ray Rajagukguk's pilgrimage from life in a hallway to becoming a pharmacy student at Loma Linda University]]> James Ponder For second-year LLU School of Pharmacy student Ray Rajagukguk, the line between poverty and success is the difference between renting a hallway and living in a very nice home.

For the first few years of his life, Ray and his family were so poor they couldn’t afford a room, so they rented a hallway behind a Jakarta, Indonesia, restaurant. They had the place to themselves at night, but shared the space with restaurant staff during the day.

“Frankly, I don’t remember that part of my life,” Ray shares, “but my parents told me about it. We lived there two or three years.”

Although his parents had just finished college, his father had a hard time finding a suitable job. His mother stayed home with Ray and his older brother, Sany.

After his father found work as an auditor, the family saved enough money to move into a house.

"My first memory was triggered by looking at photos of that house,” Ray says. “I remember the enjoyment of having tiles on the floor. In a hot country like Indonesia, tiles feel cool on your feet.”

When he was 10 or 11, the family moved again—this time to a house his father designed.

“I remember the difference in structure, design, and size,” he says. “My parents still live there. It’s a lot bigger and nicer.”

When Sany was 15 and Ray was 14, their father sent them to America.

“He wanted us to get an education and make it in life,” Ray shares. “At first, we lived with my aunt and her family in Redlands. Eventually we lived on our own. My mom would go back and forth between Indonesia and here, checking on us.”

Ray discovered he was at a big disadvantage when he arrived at Redlands High School.

“I didn’t know English,” he shares. “My counselor put me in French class, so I was having to learn two new languages at once, carrying two dictionaries.”

Due to his small size and limited English, Ray found himself the target of bullies.

“I realized I had to take care of myself,” he says.

Ray vividly remembers the triggering event.

“I was cornered by this bully in the locker room and he was slapping my face,” he recalls. “A classmate yelled at the bully and told him to leave me alone. The guy who was yelling was smaller than me, but strong. He was good at the P.E. exercises. That’s when I realized that the appearance of strength was important.”

Before coming to America, Ray had never applied himself academically. “I was always in the bottom three students in my class,” he discloses.

He paid close attention, however, when his dad explained that although he would send money to help the boys out, he wouldn’t be there in person.

“If we wanted to get ahead,” Ray notes, “we would have to apply ourselves to the challenge.”

Ray got the message. When his counselor put him in an English-as-a-second-language class, Ray opted to take the regular tenth-grade English course instead. By the time he graduated, the fact that he had taken several advanced placement classes elevated his GPA to 4.15—better than a straight “A” average.

The high grades served Ray well the very next year when an unexpected crisis arose at the end of his first year at Harding University in Searcy, Arkansas.

“I was in America on a tourist visa, which—if you overstay—you become an undocumented illegal,” he says. “The school got a letter from the Immigration and Naturalization Service saying I was going to be deported. My student advisor wrote a letter to the U.S. embassy in Indonesia, but I had to leave.”

Ray flew home without any assurance he would be allowed to return to the United States to finish his studies. When he landed in Indonesia, he and his dad went to the American embassy right away.

“It was disappointing at first,” he shares. “On the last interview, I practically begged the immigration officer to give me a second chance. I told the officer I was a good student and showed him my transcripts. When he saw my high school GPA, he approved my visa the same day. I was thankful to God that I had done my best!”

Ten years later, Ray completed a PhD degree in biochemistry at the University of Arkansas and moved to Pacific Union College to teach organic chemistry.

“I spent five years there,” he says. “During that time, I started wondering what if I had pursued medicine instead of biochemistry? But there’s not much chemistry in medicine; it’s mostly biology. That’s when I learned that pharmacy is a good marriage between chemistry and the health professions.”

Three or four years ago, while visiting friends in Georgia, he met Angela Palmer, a high school Spanish teacher, at a church social event. Ray asked her out and was delighted when she accepted. Their friendship has been growing ever since.

“She brings a lot of balance to me,” he shares. “She finished her bachelor of arts in English at Southern Adventist University in 2007. She’ll be resigning her teaching position and moving here next year.”

In 2010, he entered the doctor of pharmacy program at LLU. In addition to his studies, he loves sharing his personal story with high school students contemplating a career in the health sciences.

“The toughest part of the PharmD program is time management,” he tells them. “Not only are you expected to do well in your classes, you are also expected to serve the community. You have to manage your time very well.”

He ends his discourse to the students on an inspiring note.  

“You can do it!” he insists. “I know you can. If I can make it, you can, too.”

 

 

]]>
Thu, 11 Apr 2013 05:21:51 -0700
4264:9814 <![CDATA[Ninth Annual Physician Recognition Awards Nominations - Deadline May 3]]> Krista Miller Do you know an attending physician in the Loma Linda University Health System (LLUHS) who exemplifies our core values?

It is time to nominate physicians for the Ninth Annual Physician Recognition Awards. Every year we collect nominations and wonderful stories from employees who work closely with physicians, observe their care, skills, and demeanor, or are recipients of their care. Final decisions regarding these awards are made by leadership in LLUHS. Winners are announced at the LLUMC Annual Medical Staff Meeting in June. The comments you make about the winner of each of these awards will be shared at the annual Medical Staff Meeting.

Please submit your nominations and attach your comments in an email to bhernandez@llu.edu no later than May 3, 2013. These awards are not given to those who have received them in the past, so you will see the names of previous awardees given below.

Leadership [based on our core values of Teamwork] In recognition of outstanding leadership by a physician at LLUHS

  • 2006 Ricardo Luis Peverini, MD, Neonatology
  • 2007 Austin Colohan, MD, Neurosurgery
  • 2008 Mark Reeves, MD, Oncological Surgery
  • 2010 William Patton, MD, Gynecology-Obstetrics
  • 2011 Doug Hegstad, MD, Internal Medicine
  • 2012 Herbert Ruckle, MD, Urology

Customer Satisfaction [based on our core value of Compassion] In recognition of a physician who consistently provides outstanding service for patients and colleagues.

  • 2006 Laura Nist, MD, Neurology
  • 2007 Donald Moores, MD, Pediatric Surgery
  • 2008 Thomas Sherwin, MD, Pediatric Emergency Medicine
  • 2009 Kathy Jiffry, MD, Pediatrics (Highland)
  • 2010 Joann Bischoff, MD, Internal Medicine
  • 2011 Lauren Simon, MD, Family Medicine
  • 2012 Greg Watkins, MD, Radiology

Quality/Patient Safety [based on our core values of Excellence] In recognition of a physician who has improved quality and safety of patient care provided at LLUMC.

  • 2006 Adrian Cotton, MD, Internal Medicine
  • 2007 Renae Larsen, MD, Pediatrics
  • 2008 Bryant Nguyen, MD Emergency Medicine
  • 2009 William Jih, MD Family Medicine
  • 2010 Elba Fayard, MD Pediatrics/Neonatology
  • 2011 Richard Catalano, MD, General Surgery
  • 2012 Ihab Dorotta, MD, Anesthesia

Whole Person Care [based on our core value of Wholeness] In recognition of a physician who provides compassionate care as exemplified by the Good Samaritan.

  • 2006 Gina Mohr, MD, Family Medicine
  • 2007 Kevin Balli, MD, Obstetrics-Gynecology
  • 2008 Richard Chinnock, MD, Pediatrics
  • 2009 Ravi Rao, MD, Pediatrics
  • 2010 Barbara Orr, Family Medicine
  • 2011 Nephtali Gomez, MD, General Surgery
  • 2012 Warren Peters, MD, Preventive Medicine

Education [based on our core value of Excellence] In recognition of a physician who devotes outstanding efforts to provide graduate medical education through formal teaching, clinical mentoring and serving as a role model.

  • 2006 Khiet Ngo, DO, Pediatrics
  • 2007 Kent Denmark, MD, Pediatric Emergency Medicine
  • 2008 William Bunnell, MD Orthopedic Surgery
  • 2009 Philip Gold, MD, Internal Medicine/Pulmonary-Critical Care
  • 2010 Michelle Loh, MD, Pediatrics
  • 2011 Dustin Smith, MD, Emergency Medicine
  • 2012 Lawrence Loo, MD, Internal Medicine

Professional Recognition  [based on our core value of Excellence]In recognition of a physician who has enhanced the academic reputation of LLUMC through leadership in national and international medical organizations, academic publications and public service.

  • 2006 Stephen Ashwal, MD, Child Neurology
  • 2007 Brian Bull, MD, Pathology
  • 2008 Murray Brandstater, M.B., B.S., Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
  • 2009 Howard Gimbal, MD, Ophthalmology
  • 2010 James Slater, MD, Radiation Oncology
  • 2011 Leonard Bailey, MD, Cardiothoracic Surgery
  • 2012 Claire Sheriden, MD, Forensic Pediatrics
]]>
Tue, 16 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0700
4264:9815 <![CDATA[Screening of 'The Cove' explores ethics of animals for entertainment, food May 1-2]]> The Center for Christian Bioethics presents a free screening of "The Cove" Wednesday, May 1, and Thursday, May 2, part of its continuing Ethics in Great Films series.

The film follows Ric O'Barry, a former dolphin trainer turned activist, to a cove near Taiji, Japan, where local fishermen capture wild dolphins for sale to aquariums and marine parks--and for slaughter for food.

"The Cove" won an Academy Award for best documentary in 2010, as well as numerous awards at international film festivals.

Both screenings will be held in Centennial Complex room 3113 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and will be followed by a brief discussion of the ethical issues raised by the film.

]]>
Thu, 11 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0700
4264:9686 <![CDATA[Activities planned for golden anniversary of earth and biological sciences department]]> Heather Reifsnyder The department of earth and biological sciences is celebrating its 50th anniversary April 21–27 with events including field trips, a wild animal vespers, and discussions on both creation and environmental stewardship. Schedule below. 

The department’s beginning dates to 1961 when several biologists from the basic science faculty in the School of Medicine proposed a doctoral program in biology for non-medical professionals.

The goals were threefold: to prepare science teachers who were trained with a biblical worldview for Seventh-day Adventist schools and colleges; to develop a better understanding of the relationship between faith and science; and to provide basic science faculty members new avenues of research.

The Board of Trustees approved the new department of biology in December of 1961, and the first students arrived in fall of 1962—three of them.

Since that beginning, enrollment has grown 16-fold to its present high of 50, and the department now also offers degrees in geology, environmental sciences, and natural sciences. Students can shape their degrees to fit their goals and interests.

The department’s name has changed to earth and biological sciences, and its faculty are involved in research including studies on sea turtles, crabs, rattlesnakes, and venoms, and a variety of geology and paleontology topics.

“We’re getting to be better known,” says department chair Leonard Brand, PhD. “Students value our programs because this is a unique place. At many other schools offering these degrees, anyone who asked a question about religion would be laughed out, but at LLU our students can talk about anything and ask any questions. 

“This is the only place in the world where a Christian student can get a doctorate in biology or geology and study under faculty who accept the Bible,” he continues.

“We’re a creationist faculty. The students learn our viewpoint as well as secular viewpoints. They need to know what they’re choosing and why.”

In celebration of five decades of the intellectual openness and growth that have characterized the department of earth and biological sciences, the following events are planned and open to members of the LLU Health campus and other guests.

Open house
Sunday, April 21

The 9:30 a.m. to noon open house will cover the department’s past, current programs, and future. It takes place at Griggs Hall.  From 11:00 to 12:00, there will be a presentation on the department’s history and goals.

Field trips
Sunday, April 21

Two trips will be offered starting at 1:00 p.m. One trip will study the geology of the Loma Linda area and the San Bernardino mountains, and the other will take participants to study animals at the San Jacinto Wildlife Area, located in Riverside County. It is essential for those wishing to join a field trip to e-mail their request to ebs@llu.edu.

Symposium on environmental stewardship
Friday, April 26, and Saturday, April 27

The symposium will be based on a new book called Entrusted: Christians and Environmental Care. One of the book’s editors is Loma Linda University’s Stephen Dunbar, PhD, associate professor in the earth and biological sciences department. The symposium takes place Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., at the Centennial Complex’s Damazo Amphitheater, and Sabbath afternoon, beginning at 2:00 p.m., at Randall Amphitheater.

Individuals who would like to attend the environmental stewardship symposium are invited to e-mail their interest to ebs@llu.edu for planning purposes.

Creation Sabbath school
Saturday, April 27  

A special Sabbath school class devoted to creation and why it matters will take place at 10:00 a.m. in the Damazo Amphitheater of the Centennial Complex.

Wild animal vespers
Saturday, April 27

Evening vespers at the Loma Linda University Church will feature live animals and cover the topic “Wild Minds: Animals That Think.” It will be led by William Hayes, PhD, professor in the department of earth and biological sciences, and other colleagues, beginning at 5:00 p.m.

]]>
Thu, 11 Apr 2013 11:37:14 -0700
4264:9685 <![CDATA[Study led by LLU Health doctor makes national news]]> Heather Reifsnyder News outlets including The Wall Street Journal, U.S. News & World Report, and Chicago Tribune reported this week on results of a study that was lead-authored by Bryan Oshiro, MD, associate professor of gynecology and obstetrics.  

The study demonstrated the dramatic success of hospital programs that aim to reduce the number of babies who are delivered before full term for elective reasons. Such early deliveries can negatively impact the health of infants.

Read the Wall Street Journal article here.

]]>
Thu, 11 Apr 2013 11:29:50 -0700
4264:9659 <![CDATA[Mother's day health & beauty seminar - April 25]]> Krista Miller The department of plastic surgery will present a Mother’s Day health and beauty seminar from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 25, in its offices at 3762 Tibbetts Street, Riverside, CA 92506.

The afternoon will feature the following presentations:

  • 3:30  Botox injection demonstration
  • 4:00  Create your customized plan for facial rejuvenation
  • 5:00  Facial injectable demonstration
  • 6:00  An interview with body contouring experts 

To reserve a spot, call (951) 686-2224 or e-mail info@lluplasticsurgery.com.

Additionally, Mother’s Day discount coupons are available for skin care products, facial rejuvenation laser treatments, and injectables (attached below). Coupons must be used by Mother’s Day (May 12, 2013).

]]>
Mon, 08 Apr 2013 00:00:00 -0700
4264:9653 <![CDATA[School of Nursing hosts alumni April 12 & 13]]> Dustin Jones The School of Nursing is hosting alumni from all years for a special weekend of fellowship and memories.

Honored classes this year are the classes of 1953, 1963, 1988, and 2003. There will be a vespers and a banquet on April 13 in Wong Kerlee International Conference Center. For more information on the weekend events, contact Sandy Ballinger at (909) 558-1000 ext. 45476. 

The School of Allied Health Professions will also be holding an alumni weekend from April 17-21. For more information, please see http://myllu.llu.edu/newsoftheweek/story/?id=9536

]]>
Thu, 11 Apr 2013 08:39:15 -0700
4264:9542 <![CDATA[Local firefighters to serve fine dining Tuesday to raise funds for Children's Hospital]]> Briana Pastorino Local fire departments are joining forces to raise funds for Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital at the second annual Tip-A-Firefighter at The Old Spaghetti Factory, 1653 Industrial Park Avenue, in Redlands. All are invited to attend.

Firefighters will be serving patrons on Tuesday, April 9, during lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., and dinner from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. All tips collected by the firefighters will benefit Children’s Hospital.

“This is a great way to get the community involved in supporting our organization,” says Zareh Sarrafian, MBA, Children’s Hospital administrator. “We are extremely grateful for the continued support of our local fire departments and to The Old Spaghetti Factory for hosting this wonderful event.”

Tara Thomas, national sales coordinator for The Old Spaghetti Factory, is also proud to be part of this event. “The Old Spaghetti Factory in Redlands is honored to have the opportunity to be a part of the second annual Tip-A-Firefighter fundraiser. This is such an important community event that supports a wonderful cause.”

Firefighters from Colton, Loma Linda, and Redlands city fire departments, as well as San Bernardino County Fire Department, will participate in the fundraiser.

“The Tip-A-Firefighter at The Old Spaghetti Factory is a great fundraiser serving a great cause,” says Bill Conway, president of Redlands Professional Firefighters Association. “This is a wonderful opportunity to interact and serve our community while benefiting Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital.”

]]>
Thu, 04 Apr 2013 09:23:29 -0700
4264:9536 <![CDATA[Allied Health alumni weekend offers continuing education, including class on whole-person care]]> The School of Allied Health Professions 17th Annual Homecoming and Continuing Education convention will offer continuing education options April 17–21, including Interdisciplinary Approach to Whole-Person Care on April 18.

All health care professionals are invited to attend.

For a complete listing of courses, locations, dates and times, continuing education credits, and speakers, visit alliedhealth.llu.edu/homecoming

All School of Allied Health Professions faculty, staff, alumni, and guests are welcome to attend Homecoming Weekend events. In addition to continuing education, the weekend will also include the annual Alumni Recognition Banquet, the annual Lunch on the Lawn, "Operation: Service," a new GOLD (Graduate of the Last Decade) alumni event, and much more.

Alumni of the clinical laboratory sciences (AKA medical technology) programs are invited to join the celebration of the 75th anniversary of the clinical laboratory sciences department.

]]>
Wed, 27 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0700
4264:9531 <![CDATA[School of Medicine offers complimentary copies of new book]]> The School of Medicine has published Broadening the Vision, the fourth commemorative book in its five-year Centennial Celebration (marking the matriculation of the first class in 1909 to its graduation in 1914).

This book features a snapshot of hospitals founded or directly impacted by LLU School of Medicine alumni. Also available from the centennial series are Embracing the Vision, Of the Highest Order, and Heritage of Excellence.

All faculty, staff, students, and volunteers are invited to pick up a copy of Broadening the Vision. “We are grateful for each one of you—for all you do, directly and indirectly, to help prepare our student physicians to continue the healing ministry of Jesus Christ,” says Roger Hadley, MD, dean of the School of Medicine. “May these books be a blessing to each of you.” 

To get your free copy of Broadening the Vision, print and complete the attached form and bring it to the School of Medicine dean’s office (Coleman Pavilion A1116) between April 8 and April 26.

]]>
Wed, 03 Apr 2013 03:12:14 -0700
4264:9526 <![CDATA[U.S. representative visits campus]]> Larry Kidder On Tuesday, April 2, Congressman Gary Miller, U.S. Representative for the 31st District, spent the morning at Loma Linda University Health, learning about the important roles the institution serves in his district. Rep. Miller met with LLUH leadership and then toured the James M. Slater, MD, Proton Treatment and Research Center, the first hospital-based proton treatment facility in the world. “I am glad that I had the opportunity to meet with the leaders of this fine university,” commented Rep. Miller during his visit. “It is a true gem here in the 31st District, providing students with a quality, first-class education, and supporting thousands of jobs here in the Inland Empire.”

]]>
Wed, 03 Apr 2013 11:13:41 -0700
4264:9481 <![CDATA["Hi Daddy!" How Taylor survived a horrific car accident]]> Advancement Films ]]> Over a year ago, young Taylor survived a near-deadly car accident. Because she was correctly in her car seat and because of the medical care that she received at Loma Linda University Children's Hospital, Taylor is doing great today.

]]>
Thu, 28 Mar 2013 10:23:45 -0700
4264:9470 <![CDATA[Notes from the President--March 2013]]> Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH

IN THIS ISSUE
Introduction

I am an impatient man. As my wife, Judy, knows too well, I hate to wait—for anything. It always seems like it takes too long between when a decision is made and something happens. Institutions, including Loma Linda, just take too long sometimes. With that disclaimer, let me catch you up on some of the things I have been waiting for, as well as some other news.

Stewart Street Construction

It’s finally under way. Stewart Street is now closed between Anderson and Campus Streets as construction crews start to widen it to four lanes, plus bike/emergency lanes, and construct the pedestrian bridge over the middle connecting to the Centennial Complex. Cars are once again being diverted down the old University Avenue in the middle of campus. Construction will take about a year, and then we can finally convert University Avenue back into the Woods Walkway, named after our former president, Norman Woods. When the Stewart Street project is complete, with the Centennial Pathway running from Founders Plaza to Centennial Complex, our campus will be contiguous and safe for our students and others to enjoy.

San Bernardino Campus

We are in the final stages of environmental clearances before we close escrow on our new piece of land for the San Bernardino Campus. Excitement is building on our campus with this commitment to the San Bernardino community. Plans for the “Gateway College” are moving even more quickly with the intent to start some of these job-entry educational activities within the San Bernardino School District by this fall. This will give us a chance to develop the necessary relationships and refine our strategies as we wait for our own building to be built.

Parking

Ah, parking. The ever-present challenge on our campus. Someone recently quipped to me that our new tag line should be “Many Strengths, One Mission, No Parking!” Once again we are trying to solve this issue. The new seven-story parking structure west of the hospital is under construction! Scheduled to be completed by the end of this year, it will provide an additional 1,170 parking spaces. It will be connected to the current parking structure west of the church. We are already developing plans for another parking structure to get ahead of this continual problem. Only then can we start to work on new clinical facilities for the campus. In addition to more parking, we are also collaborating with Omnitrans and the City of San Bernardino to prepare a rapid bus line to Loma Linda. This will connect our campus and the Jerry L. Pettis Memorial VA Hospital on the south to San Bernardino and California State University–San Bernardino on the north. This will serve staff, students, and patients, including a stop near the planned San Bernardino campus.

Integration Task Force

As I have shared previously, we are hard at work trying to more effectively integrate our clinical services. An Integration Task Force, chaired by Dr. Herb Ruckle, is meeting frequently with all involved parties to craft a strategy that includes all six hospitals, 800 doctors, and our many clinics into a unified and integrated service. The installation of the EPIC electronic medical record is a major step in this direction, providing all patient information whenever and wherever it is needed. Integral to this strategy is a new website and call center that can more effectively serve our entire campus with everything from doctor appointments to referrals, lab results, etc. This integrated system will connect all of our clinics and services through a common portal and greatly facilitate all those connecting with the campus for whatever reason.

Vegetarian Congress

Every five years, Loma Linda sponsors the largest scientific conference in the world focused on the benefits of plant-based diets. Last month, this 6th International Congress on Vegetarian Nutrition took place on our campus. More than 800 participants came from all over the world to hear the latest research findings on nutrition and lifestyle issues. Loma Linda has become the international leader in this arena, a place where researchers gather to share information and learn from others. Kudos to Dr. Joan Sabaté who led this Congress, and the Schools of Public Health and Allied Health Professions who once again hosted a great event.

School of Dentistry

Our School of Dentistry has been blessed with only four deans in its nearly 60 years of existence. Dr. Charles Goodacre has served effectively in this role for the past 19 years, an impressive record by any standard. Last fall Dr. Goodacre indicated his decision to retire as dean, and a search committee began its work. I am pleased to announce that Dr. Ron Dailey, currently the executive associate dean, was appointed by our Board of Trustees as the new dean, effective July 1. Ron takes over with full support from the faculty and staff. Although not a dentist, he has served this school for 37 years, making him eminently capable for this leadership role.

Murrieta Hospital

Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta has gone through considerable organizational changes in its two short years of existence. It opened in April 2011 as a joint venture with physician and community partners. New health care laws subsequently made physician ownership of hospitals illegal, thus requiring Loma Linda to buy out these partners. Having complete ownership of Murrieta did allow us to convert the hospital to a not-for-profit facility, which was accomplished in January of this year. Over the past year, its occupancy has continued to climb until its 106 beds and various services are close to maximum capacity now. Rick Rawson was appointed CEO last year and is now ably guiding this new facility. We are delighted Murrieta has filled such a felt need in the community and are proud of the reputation it has already earned.

Vision 2020

I cannot end without an update on Vision 2020. As part of our campus transformation strategy, we are rebranding our name, as I mentioned last month. This will feature our new combined name of Loma Linda University Health with our emphasis on wholeness and healthful living. I believe you will enjoy the approach we are taking in sharing the uniqueness of this institution with the nation.

As I close this Notes from the President, the daffodils and California poppies are blooming in Oak Glen and in the valleys below. Spring reminds us of renewal and the hope of summer bounties. May our God continue to guide and bless this place.

Blessings,

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

Any correspondence sent to president@llu.edu will be read and processed by a member of the office of public affairs.

Office of the President, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA 92350

Copyright © 2013 by Loma Linda University

llu.edu

]]>
Wed, 27 Mar 2013 05:16:13 -0700
4264:9459 <![CDATA[Brief Easter service scheduled for Friday morning]]> Department of Mission and Culture All employees and visitors are welcome to an Easter event at the Medical Center tomorrow, featuring a performance by David Willsey and a message from Saul Barcelo.

Friday, March 29
8:30–8:50 a.m.
Lobby Level Amphitheater

]]>
Wed, 27 Mar 2013 03:59:28 -0700
4264:9456 <![CDATA[New CFO appointed for LLU Medical Center - Murrieta]]> Administration As Loma Linda Health continues to expand its geographic presence and mission, the hospital administrative structure is adapting. Bringing consistency to the role of CFO for all the LLUMC hospitals, Steve Mohr, MBA, has been named CFO for Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta. This appointment coincides with Murrieta’s new not-for-profit status as of January 1, 2013. 

Mr. Mohr currently is the CFO of both Loma Linda University Medical Center and the Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center. He has collaborated to build a financial team to support him in his role at each of those facilities. At the Murrieta facility he will be directly supported by James Uli, MHA, who will retain his role as executive director of finance.

Additionally, Kevin Lang, MBA, CFO for Loma Linda University Health, will maintain his role as treasurer for the Murrieta Operating Board and will continue to chair the finance committee. 

Additionally, Steve Mohr is adding managed care to his CFO role. Zareh Sarrafian, MBA, has carried this responsibility for close to 12 years and will continue to serve as an adviser on the managed care committee. This transition recognizes the significant role Mr. Sarrafian has in operations as chief administrative officer and in advancement serving as president of the Children’s Hospital Foundation. Troy Holmes, MHA, executive director for contracting, will report to Steve Mohr in this new arrangement.

“We are appreciative of the expertise of our finance team to respond to the ongoing challenges and opportunities at both Loma Linda University Health and Murrieta,” says Ruthita Fike, MA, CEO.

]]>
Wed, 27 Mar 2013 03:54:20 -0700
4264:9385 <![CDATA[Lessons learned in Haiti]]> By Adam Lorenzetti, MD, orthopedic resident As I approach my last year of residency at Loma Linda University Medical Center, I’ve realized that one of my most influential experiences occurred thousands of miles away.

While I have a varied travel experience including visits to a number of third-world countries, none have compared to the devastation I surveyed as my taxi traveled the streets of Port-au-Prince on the way to Hopital Adventiste d’Haiti in the Carrefour neighborhood.

Although I passed by more than a year after the earthquake, I noticed the countless tent villages, the collapsed presidential palace, ever-present rubble, and abandoned cars that made it feel like only a few months.

The trip was organized by Scott Nelson, MD, assistant professor of orthopedic surgery, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, who not only staffed the hospital in the days after the earthquake but also stayed for the next year. He frequently returns, bringing us residents with him.

One of the main reasons I chose Loma Linda for my residency was the opportunity to experience rotations abroad during my training—not only to provide a service that can change lives, but also to remind myself how lucky we all are and what I take for granted at home.

The first day and a half of our trip was spent reorganizing and sorting the hospital’s orthopedic equipment and supplies. Dr. Nelson’s trips are notorious for generating a whirlwind of cases, with many complicated cases saved for him. We had to know exactly where everything was.

I was surprised to see the mountain of plates, screws, implants, and tools that had all arrived after the earthquake and remained. For a facility to have such a diverse inventory and yet reside in one of the world’s poorest countries was amazing. The hospital was prepared for almost anyone who came through the door and was tested on a daily basis.

Our first day’s schedule in the operating room (OR) was busy, and we weren’t able to get through every case in one day. But that was pretty much the way it went for the 10 days we were there. We often worked to midnight, since we felt pressure to help as many as possible before we left, and some may have to wait months for another opportunity.

However, we had a great time keeping everything running and troubleshooting the occasional hiccup. The fluctuating power supply made things interesting, as did wearing our lead aprons in 100-degree heat. We put ice packs under our hats and down our shirts. Golf cart batteries in the back powered backup lights while we operated at night. Stretching our supplies and innovating when problems arose were great learning experiences.

My trip lasted four weeks, and I was able to work with several teams and experience a variety of different situations throughout my stay. Loma Linda University alumnus Dr. Gerald King, from North Carolina, and Dr. Ron Anderson, from Kaiser Permanente Los Angeles, were there for week two. Both had been to Haiti before and brought a wealth of experience. During week three, a group of general orthopedists from Appleton, Wisconson, arrived. Since this was their first international mission trip, I found that I was the most up-to-date pediatric orthhopedist on site, with a total of one month at Loma Linda and two weeks in Haiti.

The clinic never ceased to present rare and interesting cases, leaving all of us scratching our heads from time to time. Unfortunately, a number of cases were left for the next subspecialist to come. Our cases ranged from chronically dislocated hips to fungating foot masses, and even several cases of macrodactylyl—a fairly rare condition where toes or fingers are abnormally large due to the overgrowth of underlying bone and soft tissue.

Dr. Lee Zuckerman, tumor specialist at Loma Linda, arrived during week four to help with backlogged cases. Several tumor cases were waiting for him, including osteochondromas and fungating foot masses, and an enormous forearm tumor. We spent about six hours removing a tumor to save the hand, removing one of two bones and leaving only a wisp of the second.

I was also able to spend time with Dr. Terry Dietrich, a Loma Linda alumnus, who took over for a year following Dr. Nelson. Dr. Francel Alexis, from the medical school at Université d’Etat d’Haïti, is still working at the hospital along with an LLU School of Medicine alumnus, Dr. James Matiko from Arrowhead Orthopedics, and a group of residents, medical students, translators, and nurses.

My time spent outside of the operating room impacted me the most. Seeing the patience and efforts of the Haitians who traveled days to the clinic, often arriving at night and sleeping on the benches waiting to be seen the next day, was amazing. For a people who have suffered so much, it was astonishing to see how much they had endured. They had waited months for injuries to be treated, receiving only Tylenol after large surgeries (we didn’t have narcotics other than morphine). There were no complaints—just thanks for being treated.

I learned to think on my feet and improvise, which is vital to the survival of Hopital Adventiste d’Haiti as it continues to treat the people it serves with the highest level of care possible. It was a great and lasting experience, and I can’t adequately thank Dr. Nelson, Dr. Dietrich, all of the long-term volunteers, and the short-term volunteers I was able to work with, and who truly keep this much-needed facility alive.

]]>
Tue, 26 Mar 2013 08:42:52 -0700
4264:9420 <![CDATA[Employee forums scheduled for April]]>

Forums with administration will take place in locations across campus for employees of Loma Linda University Medical Center, Behavioral Medicine Center, and Shared Services. Schedules are below. 

 

Loma Linda University Medical Center & Behavioral Medicine Center

Heart & Surgical Hospital
Wednesday, April 10
7:00–8:00 a.m.
HSH Conference Room A & B
26780 Barton Rd
Redlands, CA 92373
909-558-7001

University Hospital
Monday, April 15
7:30–8:30 a.m.
Lobby Level Amphitheater

 

PBO/HIM
Tuesday, April 16
10:00–11:00 a.m.
LLUAHSC 101 - Employee Lounge
101 E. Redlands Blvd.
San Bernardino, CA 92408

 

Children's Hospital
Thursday, April 18
1:30–2:30 p.m.
Children's Hospital 1830/1832

 

Behavioral Medical Center
Thursday, April 18
3:00–4:00 p.m.
BMC Gym
1710 Barton Road
Redlands, CA 92373
909-558-9200

 

Medical Center
Tuesday, April 23
1:30–2:30 p.m.
Children’s Hospital 1830/1832

 

Mountain View Plaza
Wednesday, April 24
9:00–10:00 a.m.
MVP Room 8 A/B
11255 Mountain View Ave
Loma Linda, CA 92354
909-558-3500

 

East Campus
Thursday, April 25
7:30–8:30 a.m.
11:00–12:00 noon
7:00–8:00 p.m.
ECH Meridian Room

Loma Linda University Shared Services

Wednesday, April 17, 2013

1:30–2:30 p.m.
LLUAHSC Building Lounge
101 E. Redlands Blvd.
San Bernardino, CA 92408 

3:00–4:00 p.m.
LLUAHSC Building Lounge
101 E. Redlands Blvd.
San Bernardino, CA 92408

 

Thursday, April 18, 2013

9:30–10:30 a.m.
Evans - Cutler Hall Amphitheater
24785 Stewart St.

]]>
Wed, 27 Mar 2013 11:13:39 -0700
4264:9355 <![CDATA[LLU Printing Services is business of the year]]> Nancy Blaire The Loma Linda Chamber of Commerce named Loma Linda University Printing Services as the 2012 Business of the Year. At the annual installation dinner January 31, 2013, Phil Carlisle, CEO, Loma Linda Chamber of Commerce, presented the award to Jennifer Rowland, manager of Printing and Mail Services.

“Loma Linda University Printing Services provides a wide range of printing needs to the public as well as the university and its students,” explained Ms. Rowland. These include a variety of general printing services, graphic design, banner, wallpaper, and large format printing.

Ms. Rowland admitted the award surprised her. “I did not expect to win the award,” she said. “We have a great relationship with the Chamber and we try to help each other out, so we are very grateful and excited for the recognition.”

 To learn more about Loma Linda University Printing Services, call (909) 558-4552, or e-mail printjob@llu.edu.

Article adapted from original article in Loma Linda City News by Margie Miller. 

]]>
Thu, 21 Mar 2013 11:12:58 -0700
4264:9354 <![CDATA[Campus Tech Store pays sales tax on third-gen iPads through end of March]]> Nancy Blaire The Loma Linda University Campus Tech Store offers all third-generation iPad purchases tax-free during the month of March. In addition, when you buy a third-generation iPad, also save 50 percent on any qualifying iPad accessory.

The Loma Linda University Campus Tech Store is located within the Loma Linda University Campus Store and provides Apple technology at educational pricing for the students, faculty, staff and employees of Loma Linda University Health. The store recently marked its remodel with a grand opening celebration in February.

Quantities and models of third-generation iPads are limited. For more information, call the Loma Linda University Campus Tech Store at 909-558-4129, email campusstore@llu.edu or visit llu.edu/llu/store.

]]>
Thu, 21 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0700
4264:9347 <![CDATA[Parking structure space reduction begins March 21]]> Department of parking and traffic Effective Thursday, March 21, until the contractor has completed pouring concrete for the new parking structure in June, the top floor of the structure along the south wall will have 25 parking spaces fenced off.

Here’s why…

Our contractor, Bomel Construction, will be working on the third through seventh floors of the new structure. Because of safety concerns, we will be closing this area off with an 8-foot tall wood and barrier fencing.

This will assure everyone’s safety, and we ask that you stay on the designated pathways. 

In an effort to offset this closure, we will be reopening the closed parking spaces located on the ramp from the first to the second floor. We ask that employees comply with the parking officers' instructions and not block the ramp. If you decide to wait for a space, we ask that you pull to the side and allow traffic behind you to continue up the ramp. It is very important that traffic does not back up onto city streets. 

We apologize for the inconvenience; however we are sure that everyone agrees that we insure the safety of each employee.

Questions?

Please contact parking and traffic at 909-651-3025 or ext. 53025, or you may e-mail the department at parkingdept@llu.edu.

]]>
Mon, 18 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0700
4264:9351 <![CDATA[OASIS: A Day of Renewal for All Employees]]> Shelly Moore A Journey of Transformation

Keynote speaker: Lori Ciccarelli, director of community relations at Mammoth Hospital

Presented by Employee Spiritual Care and Wholeness.

Register on the OWL Portal for $24; cost includes a light breakfast and lunch. Two CE hours are offered.

]]>
Thu, 21 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0700
4264:9079 <![CDATA[For cancer survivor Dawn Scott and her LLU Cancer Center surgeon, 'Failure is not an option']]> Nancy Yuen In 2011, Dawn Scott was using the skills she had honed in her work as an event planner to prepare for a joyous occasion, her wedding.

Dawn loved working for a motor home company, which had allowed her to travel throughout the United States. But after many years and adventures as an event planner, Dawn was excited about transitioning to a new life and career. “I was looking forward to settling down with my fiancé, Paul,” she says, “and was pursuing a career in law.”

Like many brides-to-be, Dawn dieted and exercised to prepare for her wedding. The day was casual and joyous, reflecting the couple's personality.

After the wedding Dawn settled into her new routine, which included attending law school. In late November she began to notice an unusual weight gain around her waist and by mid-December, her waist had lost its shape. Concerned, she made an appointment to see her doctor; she was then referred to Loma Linda University Cancer Center for specialized care.

On December 22, 2011, an ultrasound revealed tumors in her abdomen. Dawn’s first surgery was on January 24, 2012; Ron Swensen, MD, removed her ovaries and cancer arising from her appendix was diagnosed.

“Cancer that has spread to the lining of the abdominal cavity and organs, termed peritoneal carcinomatosis,” says Maheswari Senthil, MD, who would perform Dawn’s second surgery, “is extremely challenging to treat. Dawn’s cancer was extensive, and surgery was scheduled to remove visible tumors and administer hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC).

“My husband, Paul, was a great help to me,” says Dawn. “He was very supportive—I think he just went into action mode and took care of me.”

Dawn’s strong faith reassured her as she prepared for surgery and HIPEC treatment. In early March, her rabbi led a prayer service for her, led by her attended by family and friends.  Dawn was also inspired by a quotation that had become her mantra while she was preparing for an important law school test: “Failure is not an option.” She shared this quote with Dr. Senthil.

On March 15, 2012, Dr. Senthil and her team skillfully removed the cancer and with it, affected tissue and organs. This required removing Dawn’s large and small intestines, gall bladder, spleen, her uterus, and parts of her liver, pancreas, diaphragm, and stomach. As she performed the 26-hour surgery and HIPEC, Dr. Senthil recalled the words Dawn had shared with her before the surgery, “Failure is not an option.”

At the time of her surgery, Dawn’s cancer was at stage four. Within two weeks, Dawn developed a sepsis infection, and she underwent a third surgery in late March. She recovered sufficiently to go home for good by mid-April and just months later returned to law school one night a week. By the next quarter she began attending classes full-time.

"I am grateful to Dr. Senthil," says Dawn, "for not giving up on me when she was confronted by the enormity of my cancer. I'm not sure another surgeon would have taken on the challenge that my cancer presented. If it wasn't for her perseverance I probably wouldn't be here today—I am forever grateful for her tenacity."

As she recalls the care she received at Loma Linda University Cancer Center, Dawn says, “I also want to mention what a great help Laura, the psychologist assigned to me through the Cancer Center was. I saw her several times after I was released from the hospital to help me cope with what was going on. It was great to know there is someone who specifically works with cancer patients; she helped guide me through my feelings.”

“Dawn is one of the most positive people I’ve met,” says Dr. Senthil, who is inspired by her determination. Dawn continues to live by her mantra, posted on her blog on the Caring Bridge website: “I am strong! I am a fighter! I am a survivor! I will beat cancer! I will become a lawyer!” And finally, written in bold letters: “Failure is not an option!!!”

According to Judy Chatigny, executive director, Loma Linda University Cancer Center, patients like Dawn who have complex medical issues are receiving better outcomes at Loma Linda University Cancer Center. The determination to offer the best care available and to continue to pursue research into cancer treatment was bolstered by a $3 million gift from the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians to support Loma Linda University Cancer Center.

 “The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians’ gift has enabled Loma Linda University Medical Center to proceed with plans to create a fully integrated and comprehensive cancer program in one physical space,” says Ms. Chatigny, “benefiting patients who rely on the Cancer Center for care. We are grateful for this transformative gift.”

]]>
Mon, 11 Mar 2013 01:55:50 -0700
4264:9348 <![CDATA[Featured video-Match Day!]]> Kristina Benfield ]]> Just how do medical students get matched for their resident program? Here's your answer.

]]>
Thu, 21 Mar 2013 10:53:43 -0700
4264:9143 <![CDATA[ 'Cirque du Jubilee' gala raises more than $846,000 for Children's Hospital]]> Contributed report Welcome to Cirque du Jubilee!” Adorable children dressed in circus attire welcomed guests as they entered the National Orange Show Events Center for Cirque du Jubilee.

The LLU Children’s Hospital Foundation event, which celebrated 20 years of giving by generous donors, raised $846,700. The funds will be used to fund lifesaving medical equipment and other hospital needs.

Attendees were transported into a dream-like circus atmosphere, with trapeze artists and a performer on stilts. The evening began with a silent auction. Resplendent on the main stage, a 3-year-old white tiger overlooked the room which was decorated in purple and white, with sparkling white lights and crystal chandeliers.

Mary Ann Xavier, LLU Children’s Hospital Foundation board chair, introduced Jillian Payne, MBA, executive director, LLU Children’s Hospital Foundation. “This year’s theme, ‘Cirque du Jubilee,’’’ emphasized Ms. Payne, “expresses the bright hope and joy of healing and commemorates hospital supporters’ blessings and the feats they have made possible.”

Then, Zareh Sarrafian, MBA, LLU Children’s Hospital administrator and LLU Medical Center chief administrative officer, addressed attendees. “Celebrating 20 years of giving is a major milestone and would not be possible without your ongoing support, compassion, and resources over the last two decades,” said Mr. Sarrafian.

During the program came a surprise: a parade of children holding ribboned posters marching to center stage. Their banners brought back memories for many attendees, commemorating and celebrating the current and previous 19 galas, including “Got Heart,” “Miracles in the Marketplace,” and “Lasso the Dream.”

The main purpose for the 2013 gala,” says Shelley Vincent, foundation events specialist, “was to raise enough money to purchase multi-dimensional cardiac monitors for use in the pediatric intensive care unit. These monitors are used every second of every minute of every day to save lives. I am thrilled that during the gala, funds were raised to purchase six monitors.”

Several awards were presented during the gala to recognize service on behalf of children. Wyatt Caley of Highland was given the Junior Hometown Hero Award for his efforts raising money for gifts for hospitalized children. In 2012, he raised more than $2,000 by organizing a trap-shooting tournament.

The Hometown Hero Award was presented in honor of each of the sponsors and guests at the gala, in appreciation for the more than $11 million raised over the past 19 years.

LLU Children’s Hospital nurse Lee Ann Garman received the 2012 Ringmaster Award for her service to the region’s children. Ms. Garman, who retired from full-time work at the hospital in 2011 after 30 years, recently returned as a part-time relief supervisor. She began working as a pediatric nurse at LLU Medical Center before Children’s Hospital opened in 1993.

The final award was given to Stater Bros. Markets and Stater Bros. Charities. They were presented with the Shirley N. Pettis Award for their outstanding dedication and service to children.

A gala highlight was the appearance of Leanna and Jeff Moore and their daughter, Taylor, of Helendale, California. Three-year-old Taylor was brought to LLU Children’s Hospital in 2012 fighting for her life following injuries suffered during a catastrophic car accident. Today the vibrant and outgoing little girl enjoys playing golf and giving Alexander Zouros, MD, the pediatric neurosurgeon who saved her life, gifts of candy. The audience was spellbound as little Taylor thanked them.

Darice Lang, 2013 gala chairwoman, compares the event to a joyous jubilee. “We chose the white circus theme,” she says, “to convey the bright hope that LLU Children’s Hospital provides to its community, as well as a celebratory thanks to our generous sponsors. We wanted it to truly be a joyous 20-year jubilee—with aerialists pouring imported French lemonade, to white cotton candy and lavender popcorn, and a white tiger—I feel our guests had an evening of enchantment.”

]]>
Tue, 12 Mar 2013 04:10:17 -0700
4264:9200 <![CDATA[Featured Video-Tommy's Story]]> Advancement Films ]]> When Tommy was born, he weighed only one pound. Watch the video for more on his story.

]]>
Thu, 14 Mar 2013 09:56:24 -0700
4264:9222 <![CDATA[Medical Center to dedicate new Women's Cancer and Surgical Oncology Center, March 20 ]]> With the release of 120 butterflies to signify the metamorphosis of its cancer programs, Loma Linda University Medical Center will dedicate the Inland Empire’s premier Women’s Cancer and Surgical Oncology Center on Wednesday, March 20. The public is invited to attend the ceremony at 11:00 a.m. in front of Schuman Pavilion. Tours of the new center will immediately follow.

The new Women’s Cancer and Surgical Oncology Center provides personalized patient care in a setting designed to encourage coordination and communication among all participants in a patient’s treatment—including physicians, nurses, therapists, surgeons, counselors, and the patients and their families themselves. The center also continues Loma Linda’s strong, historical commitment to medical research and assures that patients have access to the latest advances in the prevention, detection, and treatment of cancer.

“We’ve created the only center of its kind not only in the Inland Empire but within a 60-mile radius of the hospital,” says Cancer Center Executive Director Judy Chatigny, MSN. “The center creates a one-stop shop that allows patients easy access to many of Loma Linda’s nationally known oncology services including medical and surgical oncologists, as well as support services.”

As Director Mark Reeves, MD, PhD, explains, “The center brings together—both physically and figuratively—gynecology and surgical oncologists with medical and surgical oncologists in a collaborative way that ensures comprehensive, seamless care for the patient.Each patient receives an individualized treatment plan that is developed and reviewed through the collective input of medical, surgical and radiation oncologists, pathologists, radiologists, and an entire team of specialists. Each plan is based on a patient’s diagnosis, values, and life circumstances.”

Helping implement this treatment plan is a team of specially trained nurse navigators who help guide the patient through the continuum of care and provide patients the support and education they need to prepare for treatment and ongoing monitoring. The center also encourages the involvement of families throughout the course of treatment, including during clinical as well as educational visits.

“We also place high value in the non-medical dimensions of care,” says Dr. Reeves. “As a result, our center focuses on treating the whole person through support groups, exercise programs, access/referral to social work, dietitians, psychological services, spiritual support, and other long-term needs of each patient.”

To help patients better understand their diagnosis, the center includes a user-friendly Cancer Resource Center (supported by a cancer resource coordinator) that provides the latest information from the American Cancer Society and other well-respected sources. In addition, a cancer-help kiosk, linked directly to the National Cancer Institute’s database, allows patients and their families easy access to comprehensive cancer information, including treatment options, potential side effects, medications, and supportive care.

Also unique to the center is its comforting environment, which brings nature indoors through the use of a soothing color palette and artwork focused on nature, as well as natural elements, fabrics, and furnishings selected to be more hospitable and less hospital. It also features wood flooring to minimize noise, private rooms, and carefully placed furniture and computer screens to ensure privacy.

Adjacent to the medical and surgical centers is Loma Linda University Cancer Center’s James M. Slater, MD Proton Treatment and Research Center, the first hospital-based proton therapy center in the world. Established in 1990, today the center uses proven-effective proton beam technology for many types of cancers, and it has treated more patients than any other proton treatment center in the world.

]]>
Thu, 14 Mar 2013 11:03:40 -0700
4264:9205 <![CDATA[Ruthita Fike recognized for her leadership, vision, and commitment]]> Nancy Yuen On Tuesday, March 12, 2013, the National Health Foundation presented Ruthita J. Fike, MA, CEO and administrator of Loma Linda University Medical Center and executive vice president for hospital affairs, Loma Linda University Health, with the Ludlam-Gamble Award for leadership, vision, and commitment. Ms. Fike is the first woman selected to receive the award.

During a tribute dinner attended by more than 300 leaders and executives in the health care industry, the National Health Foundation (NHF) in association with the Hospital Association of Southern California, recognized and celebrated Ms. Fike for her leadership in the community. In addition to recognizing a leader in health care, funds raised during the annual event support the NHF mission to improve and enhance the health of the underserved by developing and supporting innovative programs. The March 12 event was the most successful fundraiser to date, and was held at Pandora on Green in Pasadena, California.

]]>
Thu, 14 Mar 2013 10:11:30 -0700
4264:9206 <![CDATA[Featured Video-Recognition of Ruthita Fike's leadership]]> MC Marketing ]]> Ruthita Fike was honored by NHF for her leadership. This video was presented during the awards ceremony.

]]>
Thu, 14 Mar 2013 10:19:51 -0700
4264:9203 <![CDATA[Stewart Street pedestrian walkway detour in effect]]> Krista Miller The pedestrian walkway at the Centennial Pathway was closed on March 11, 2013, in anticipation of the bridge construction. The pedestrian walkway will be closed for the duration of the project.

The east crosswalk at Campus and Stewart is also closed and pedestrians are now redirected to the west crosswalk of the intersection. 

The west crosswalk at Anderson and Stewart is now closed and pedestrians are redirected to the east crosswalk of the intersection.

These closures are to ensure the safety of pedestrians while construction begins on the Centennial Bridge Pathway. 

Stewart Street Detour

Questions?

Please contact the Department of Parking & Traffic at 909-651-3025 or ext. 53025, or you may email the department at parking@llu.edu.

]]>
Fri, 08 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0800
4264:9212 <![CDATA[Campus transformation project begins for LLU Medical Center ]]> Campus transformation project management team This month will kick off the public review process for the Loma Linda University Medical Center campus transformation project. This process will follow the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).

The city of Loma Linda will be the lead agency in creating an environmental impact report (EIR), which will include the following steps:

  • A public notice of preparation will be sent to adjacent properties or regional agencies that may be affected by the project.
  • A public scoping meeting will be held at 7:00 p.m. on March 21, 2013, at the Coleman Pavilion Basement. This meeting will explain the CEQA review process, describe the project concept, and provide a forum for initial comments. There will not be any formal response to comments at this time, but relevant comments will be incorporated into the EIR process. 
  • A series of reports related to potential environmental impacts will be made available for public comment.
  • Public comments relevant to the EIR will be responded to appropriately.
  • Certification of the environmental impact report with findings and mitigation measures will take place as required.

The formal CEQA process is a necessary step in the progress of the campus transformation project.

Anyone who has question about this process may contact Eric Schilt via e-mail (eschilt@llu.edu), or by phone at extension 87078.

]]>
Thu, 14 Mar 2013 10:48:17 -0700
4264:8902 <![CDATA[Board of Trustees/Directors Report - February 24-26, 2013]]> Larry Kidder Loma Linda University Adventist Health Sciences Center

Loma Linda University

Loma Linda University Medical Center

Loma Linda University Health System

February 24-26, 2013

Reports were presented to and actions taken by the Boards of Trustees/Directors for LLUAHSC (now referred to as Loma Linda University Health [LLUH]), LLU, LLUMC and LLUHS. Highlights of these reports and actions follow:

Integration Task Force

During an educational session for the Boards—which also included LLU Faculty Medical Group—on Sunday, February 24, members listened to a preliminary report presented by the Integration Task Force (ITF). This group has been tasked by senior LLUH administration with comparing the current and expected state of health care in the United States to the present organizational structure of various corporations under LLUH. In summary, ITF members concur with the idea that increased system integration is the current trend in health care, particularly in light of implementation of the Affordable Care Act, and that LLUH needs to pursue further system integration.

“The U.S. government has given strong signals that it intends to incentivize health care to be given in an integrated, high-value delivery system,” suggests Herbert Ruckle, MD, professor and chair of urology, LLU School of Medicine, and ITF chair, “with an emphasis on prevention and population management.” Dr. Ruckle continues, “It appears that the government and other payors will favor larger, fully integrated health care organizations in an effort to increase value, streamline health care, and reduce costs.” He goes on to say that LLUH has the potential to be organized and developed into a fully integrated health care delivery platform.

ITF members have interviewed many administrative and physician leaders across the various entities that compose LLUH. They report a resounding consensus that the entire LLU Health organization should pursue integration as fully as possible—including the faculty physician groups.

Other ITF members include Judy Storfjell, PhD, chief nursing officer, LLUMC; Mark Reeves, MD, PhD, vice president of institutes; Abel Torres, MD, JD, professor and chair of dermatology, LLU School of Medicine; Ron Swenson, MD, associate professor and chair of obstetrics and gynecology, LLU School of Medicine, and Mark Janack, RNFA. Providing important support to ITC efforts are Paul Hermann, MD, PhD, associate professor of pathology and human anatomy, LLU School of Medicine; Angela Lalas, MBA, chief financial officer, LLU Shared Services; and Padmini Davamony, executive director of decision support and information systems, LLU Health Care.

New Dean for School of Dentistry

The Board voted the appointment of Ronald Dailey, PhD, as the new dean of the LLU School of Dentistry effective July 1, 2013. Dr. Dailey, chair and associate professor of dental education services, currently serves as executive associate dean of the school. “Dr. Dailey’s long track record makes him an obvious choice for dean,” says Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH, president of LLUH, “and our Board confirmed that recommendation. I am delighted to welcome Ron to that position.”

Dr. Dailey joined the LLU School of Dentistry in June of 1975 as an instructor in the department of preventive and community dentistry. Since then, he has served as assistant dean for admissions and student affairs, and most recently as executive associate dean. He is the fifth dean of the LLU School of Dentistry since it became part of Loma Linda University in 1953.

Center for Christian Bioethics Celebrates 30 Years

The Loma Linda University Center for Christian Bioethics, opened in January of 1984, is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. Roy Branson, PhD, associate dean of the LLU School of Religion and director of the center, pointed out in particular the legacy of Jack Provonsha, MD, PhD, who began discussions of the relationship between ethics and medical/biological research—termed bioethics—many years ago. Dr. Branson also mentioned that Loma Linda University has expanded its ethics faculty to include six professors with doctorates in the field that teach students throughout the university. He added that physicians trained in ethics at LLU are now fellows of the center and provide ongoing clinical bioethics consultations at LLU Medical Center. As part of his presentation, Dr. Branson shared a video highlighting the many lectures and conferences that have resulted in numerous books and some 400 educational videos.

Department of Earth and Biological Sciences Celebrates 50 Years

The Board also took time to recognize the 50th anniversary of the department of earth and biological sciences. Leonard Brand, PhD, professor of earth and biological sciences, was on hand to receive the Board’s congratulations on behalf of the department. Celebratory events are being planned for April 21–27, including an open house, biology and geology field trips, a symposium on environmental stewardship, as well Sabbath School and vespers programs at the Loma Linda University Church of Seventh-day Adventists.

National Branding Campaign to Launch in April

The Loma Linda University Health national branding campaign, slated to kick off in April, was presented to the Board by Tony Yang, MBA, assistant vice president for public affairs, and Tammy Veach, executive director of marketing. Board members were given a sneak peek at some of the creative visuals and strategies that will be used to tell the Loma Linda story—with a focus on wellness and prevention—on the national stage.

“It’s exciting to be part of this chapter in our history,” says Mr. Yang. “In many ways, Loma Linda already has a national brand because of the incredible commitment and dedication of so many who have served, and continue to serve, our organization.” He continues, “But this is the first time we’re going to tell that story proactively, strategically, and intentionally on the national stage, with a new name—Loma Linda University Health—to describe our entire enterprise of eight schools, six hospitals, 800 faculty physicians, and 14,000 staff and faculty.”

Epic System Successfully Launched

Zareh Sarrafian, MBA, chief administrative officer, LLUMC, thanked Ricardo Peverini, MD; Mark Zirkelbach, MPA; Cindy Schmidt, MBA; and Beth Elwell, MBA for the work done to prepare for and implement the Loma Linda Electronic Access Portal, known as LLEAP.  Dr. Peverini, senior vice president for clinical faculty, LLUH, then covered the highlights of the “cutover”—manually moving patient information for current patients from one system to the other the day before the Epic Go-Live event at 3:48 a.m. on February 5. He also discussed where LLUH currently stands in the implementation process. LLEAP’s current functionality meets criteria for stage 6 (out of a possible seven stages) of the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) electronic medical record adoption model.

Beth Elwell, MBA, executive program director for LLEAP, discussed the successes, challenges, and the next phases of the ongoing system implementation. The Epic software integrates all aspects of patient care, from physician notes to patient billing, making critical information available to authorized health care professionals and giving patients greater access to their health records.

A command center in Wong Kerlee International Conference Center was outfitted with more than 100 computers, and Loma Linda and Epic personnel worked 24/7 for three weeks to support end users during go-live.

]]>
Wed, 06 Mar 2013 01:40:56 -0800
4264:8927 <![CDATA[Stewart Street detour begins March 10]]> Department of Transportation, Parking, and Traffic In preparation for the next phase of the Stewart Street Centennial Bridge project, the university detour through campus will open Sunday, March 10, 2013. This detour will remain in place until the completion of the bridge project, set for the first quarter of 2014.

Traffic between Anderson and Campus Streets will now pass through University Court, which will be extended across the main campus mall. University Court will be restriped to eliminate the angled parking on the southeast side (adjacent to the Power Plant). This will allow for a designated right turn lane and two left turn lanes.

Stewart Street between Campus and Anderson Streets will be closed at 6:00 a.m. on Monday, March 11, 2013. This closure will remain in effect until the completion of the project.

Pedestrians will be allowed to cross Stewart Street at the existing crosswalks for approximately two weeks. After March 25, pedestrian traffic will be redirected east and west of Stewart Street. These pedestrian crossings will remain in effect until the completion of the Centennial Bridge project.

We appreciate the cooperation and understanding of the campus community while we complete this important project.

Questions? 

Please contact the Department of Parking and Traffic at (909) 651-3025 or ext. 53025, or you may e-mail the department at parking@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 07 Mar 2013 11:10:54 -0800
4264:8847 <![CDATA[Free weight loss help for LLUH employees]]> Larry Kidder According to a recent ABC “20/20” report, approximately 100 million people in the United States spend around $20 billion each year trying to lose weight. Loma Linda University Health (LLUH) employees can receive four months of top-quality weight loss help that ultimately costs them nothing.

“Loma Linda University Health employees who are covered by risk management can take part in a four-month personalized weight loss program,” says Olivia Moses, DrPH, wellness program administrator and assistant clinical professor of health promotion and education, LLU School of Public Health. “If they follow through to the end, they will receive a full reimbursement for small weekly commitment costs to help them complete it.”

The program is free to employees who complete their individually customized programs. The small commitment fees aren’t meant to cover the costs for the wellness services provided. Their only purpose is to keep employees committed and motivated to complete the program.

The Living Whole Employee Wellness Program, part of the LLUH department of Risk Management, has headed up a campus-wide push toward improved employee wellness for a number of years. The “Say N.O.W.” program—or “Say No to Over Weight”—was recently developed to help those among the 14,000-plus LLUH employees who are struggling to lose weight.

“As employees, we feel better, work better, and are far more productive when we are taking care of our health,” Dr. Moses points out. “Our organization was founded on a strong health message and it is the Living Whole Employee Wellness Program’s goal to provide various opportunities and resources to help employees take care of themselves.”

How does the Say NOW program work? An employee picks up the phone and calls (909) 651-4007 to begin the enrollment process.

A confidential health risk assessment is completed and the employee sits down with a Living Whole dietitian to talk over options.

Based on the conversation, the dietitian refers the employee to one of five classes: “Why Weight?” through the Living Whole Employee Wellness Program; “Lean Choices,” through the LLU Center for Health Promotion; “Activity N.O.W.” through LLU Drayson Center; “The Solution,” through Lite Weights, a Redlands-based organization; or “Take Shape for Life,” also through the Center for Health Promotion.

Upon completing one of these weekly classes, the employee returns for a final exit assessment interview with the Living Whole program. Commitment fee receipts are turned over and the employee receives full reimbursement.

“Weight challenges are often intensely personal,” notes Dr. Moses. “We take extreme care to help employees feel comfortable and plan a program that fits their personal needs and struggles.

While the Say NOW program is exclusively for full-time employees covered under the LLUH department of Risk Management, all of the classes mentioned are available to family members and friends for the regular fees.

“Our goal is to assist every employee in his or her walk toward living whole,” concludes Dr. Moses. “We want to create a non-judgmental environment where employees feel supported and empowered.” She adds, “It’s not about guilt or simple weight loss; it’s about transforming our entire life for the better.”

]]>
Mon, 04 Mar 2013 03:37:15 -0800
4264:8908 <![CDATA[Traffic advisory: Closures scheduled for Interstate 10 and Tippecanoe interchange improvement project]]> TRAFFIC ADVISORY: I-10 Tippecanoe Interchange Improvement Project, Phase I

1-800-875-4990
www.sanbag.ca.gov/projects/interchange_tippecanoe

Loma Linda, CA – As part of the I-10 Tippecanoe Interchange Improvement Project, the San Bernardino Associated of Governments (SANBAG), in coordination with the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), the City of Loma Linda, and the City of San Bernardino will be conducting the following closures beginning March 5th through April 8th. The closures will take place between the hours of 10:00 PM – 6:00 AM.

Please refer to the information below for the closure schedule, weather permitting:

 

DATE & TIME

 

LOCATION

 

ROAD/DETOUR INFORMATION

Tuesday, March 5, 2013 through
Friday, April 8, 2013
10:00 PM – 6:00 AM

I-10 EB Waterman Avenue North On-ramp

Make a right onto Redlands Boulevard, left on Tippecanoe Avenue/Anderson Street, and get onto I-10 EB.

Tuesday, March 5, 2013 through
Friday, April 8, 2013
10:00 PM – 6:00 AM

I-10 EB Tippecanoe Avenue Off-ramp

Exit Waterman Avenue North, make a left onto Redlands Boulevard, and proceed east towards Tippecanoe Avenue/ Anderson Street.

Tuesday, March 5, 2013 through
Friday, April 8, 2013
10:00 PM – 6:00 AM

I-10 EB Waterman Avenue South On-ramp

Continue on Waterman Avenue South, make a left onto Redlands Boulevard, left on Tippecanoe Avenue/Anderson Street, and get onto I-10 EB.

Tuesday, March 5, 2013 through
Friday, April 8, 2013
10:00 PM – 6:00 AM

Right two lanes on I-10 EB from Waterman Avenue to Tippecanoe Avenue (Lane #4 and the Auxiliary Lane that ends at the Tippecanoe Off-ramp)

No detour necessary

Thank you for your patience and support during this improvement project. Please be aware of the construction area and always make a point to … SLOW FOR THE CONE ZONE.

]]>
Tue, 05 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0800
4264:8904 <![CDATA[Integrated wayfinding project kicks off]]> Larry Kidder Loma Linda University Health (LLUH) leaders want to know what new students, patients, and other visitors experience as they come to the organization’s main campus in Loma Linda.

“People visit the LLUH campus for a variety of reasons,” suggests Rachelle Bussell, senior vice for advancement, LLUH, “sometimes during difficult or stressful times.” She adds, “Having clear, concise directions on a large campus will improve the visitor experience.”

“We made an intentional decision to take a step back,” explains Beth Rose, executive program manager for the integrated wayfinding project, and director of hospitality services for LLUMC. “We’re looking carefully at what it means to provide seamless pathways for visitors to approach our campus.”

Wayfinding tools combine signage with kiosks and interactive technologies.

Members of the integrated wayfinding steering committee, led by Ms. Rose, have been assigned the task of developing a master wayfinding plan for the campus. The committee considered four vendors to help with the evaluation process, master plan creation, and plan implementation. A wayfinding and environmental graphic design firm, fd2s, headquartered in Austin, Texas, was selected to partner with LLUH.

The process will require a number of critical steps. First, fd2s representatives will be on campus April 1-5 in order to immerse themselves in the campus experience. They will interview a number of individuals representative of various users—students, staff, patients, family members, and other visitors. In addition, they will test the effectiveness of temporary signage and other wayfinding tools.

Representatives from fd2s will follow paths typical for a variety of users. Their evaluation will lead to a proposal, which will ultimately result in a master plan. “Once fd2s completes its evaluation and master plan,” Ms. Rose indicates, “we intend to implement the campus upgrades over the next five to eight years.”

Ms. Rose and her fellow steering committee members want to emphasize the importance of the six-month investigative phase. “Our goal is to make our campus more accessible to visitors,” she concludes, “providing them with wayfinding aids that will take them exactly where they need to go as efficiently as possible.”

]]>
Wed, 06 Mar 2013 00:00:00 -0800
4264:8779 <![CDATA[Ronald Dailey appointed dean of LLU School of Dentistry]]> Doug Hackleman Ronald DaileyRonald Dailey, PhD, executive associate dean, Loma Linda University School of Dentistry, has been appointed by the University Board of Trustees to serve as the School’s fifth dean, effective July 1, 2013. He will replace Charles J. Goodacre, DDS, MSD, who has served in that position since 1994.

Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president and CEO, Loma Linda University Health, announced the appointment Tuesday evening, February 26, to a large gathering of School of Dentistry faculty and staff.  

“After a careful search process, Dr. Dailey’s name was selected for presentation to the University’s Board of Trustees,” says Dr. Hart. “Dr. Dailey’s long track record makes him an obvious choice for dean and our Board confirmed that recommendation. I am delighted to welcome Ron into that position.”

Dr. Dailey was first employed by the School of Dentistry in June 1975 as an instructor in the department of preventive and community dentistry, while completing a master of arts degree in educational psychology at Walla Walla College, College Place, Washington.

In July of 1978 he was promoted to assistant professor, and became director of admissions and student affairs; in 1986 his title changed to assistant dean for admissions and student affairs.

On September 30, 1993, Dr. Dailey was appointed associate dean for academic affairs, the same year that he successfully defended his doctoral dissertation, which focused on a re-analysis of the relationship of psychomotor and perceptual skills to student performance in dental school.

With the acquisition of his doctor of philosophy degree in higher and professional education from the University of Southern California in 1994, Dr. Dailey was promoted to associate professor, department of dental educational services, and a year later (September 1995), he was named the department’s acting chair, a position he maintains.

One of the more meaningful accomplishments of Dr. Dailey’s teaching and administrative career has been writing, along with LLU professor of biostatistics Jay S. Kim, PhD, a groundbreaking textbook, Biostatistics for Oral Healthcare, published by Blackwell Munksgaard in 2008 (344 pp.), which M. E. Munn calls the “first solid biostatistical text completely devoted to oral health research.”

On June 1, 2009, after 15 years as associate dean for academic affairs, Dr. Dailey was named executive associate dean, Loma Linda University School of Dentistry—a position that justified an accumulating list of duties he was already performing.

Dr. Dailey joins a limited fraternity of dental school deans who are not trained as dentists; among them is John Featherstone, MSc, PhD, the current School of Dentistry dean at University of California, San Francisco.

Among the honors Dr. Dailey has received is his honorary membership in Omicron Kappa Upsilon—a society that was established in 1914 at Northwestern University Dental School in Lincoln, Nebraska, to promote and recognize scholarship and character among students of dentistry. He was also selected for Teaching Excellence Awards in 1986 and 1987, and the School of Dentistry’s Distinguished Service Award in 2001.

Dr. Dailey retains a seat on the Loma Linda City Council that he won in 2009.

Dr. Dailey is married to Karen Winston, MD, a Loma Linda University pediatrician, and has three adult children: Casey, Colin, and Katie.

]]>
Thu, 28 Feb 2013 10:26:36 -0800
4264:8774 <![CDATA[Breakthroughs in plant-based diet research headline 6th International Congress on Vegetarian Nutrition at LLU]]> Herbert Atienza Loma Linda was the epicenter of all major scientific-based research on plant-based diets and nutrition this week, as more than 800 of the world’s leading scientists, researchers, and advocates gathered for the 6th International Congress on Vegetarian Nutrition (6ICVN), hosted by Loma Linda University Health.

6ICVN, organized by LLU School of Public Health, is an event that happens only every five years and is the premier gathering of the world’s experts in plant-based nutrition and health.

At this year’s gathering, held February 24–26 at LLU Drayson Center, delegates dove in to dozens of seminars, workshops, and presentations exploring such topics as the link between diet and longevity, how plant-based diets can help prevent and treat major chronic diseases, and the sustainability of plant-based diet lifestyles.

“I have been attending the vegetarian congress since the fourth one because I’m a vegetarian and there are many new things that I learn,” says delegate Hiroshi Yamaji, 52, of Tokyo, who is the director of health ministries for the Japan Union Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

“I feel very blessed by the lifestyle I have,” he continues. “I have been a practicing vegetarian since I was born and I see the benefits in it. I am glad there is now strong scientific support for it.”

Delegates received a rousing welcome from Loma Linda University Health officials at the start of the events.

“It’s a real privilege for Loma Linda to be identified with this congress, which is the premier international conference for research in plant-based diets,” said Richard Hart, MD, DrPH, president of Loma Linda University Health, during his welcome. “Loma Linda has pioneered efforts that now allow us to gather here. Vegetarianism is no longer an Adventist thing or a novelty. It has become a science-based way of life for many people.”

Joan Sabate, MD, PhD, 6ICVN chair and chair of the nutrition department at LLU School of Public Health, noted that the event has grown at each congress, and this year’s attendance easily surpassed the expected 700 delegates.

“The interest from both the Adventist community and the scientific community is increasing,” he said.

“Vegetarian nutrition is one of the stalwart research themes of our school,” says Tricia Penniecook, MD, MPH, dean of the LLU School of Public Health. “During the congress, scientists, practitioners, academicians, students, and members of the community at large learned more about how a vegetarian lifestyle can be taught and implemented in practical ways.”

The congress also provided the venue for announcing major research findings, including the first public presentation of an international-headline-making landmark study by Spanish researchers that made a head-to-head comparison and determined that plant-based Mediterranean diets are better at reducing heart disease risks than a low-fat diet.

Miguel Angel Martinez, MD, MPH, PhD, lead investigator of the study called “PREDIMED,” for “PREvencion con Dieta MEDiterranea,” says 6ICVN was a good place to unveil his study’s findings because they stand on groundbreaking research conducted at Loma Linda University, such as the landmark Adventist Health Study and a study on walnuts and heart disease.

“It is a good opportunity to celebrate the findings from these studies from two decades ago; it’s like closing the loop,” he says. “Our findings are very supportive of the research of those pioneering studies at Loma Linda.”

]]>
Thu, 28 Feb 2013 10:22:54 -0800
4264:8768 <![CDATA[Plant-based diets with nuts and virgin olive oil can reduce risk of heart disease by 30%]]> ]]> Spanish researchers chose Loma Linda University as the place to make the international announcement of their landmark study showing that plant-based Mediterranean diets reduce the risk of heart disease better than a low-fat diet. In this video, Miguel Angel Martinez, MD, MPH, PhD, lead investigator, discusses the findings, which were announced Monday, February 25, at LLU’s 6th International Congress on Vegetarian Nutrition. The results were also just published in The New England Journal of Medicine.

]]>
Wed, 27 Feb 2013 04:48:18 -0800
4264:8803 <![CDATA[Loma Linda University Children's Hospital to celebrate 20 years of giving at the 20th Annual Foundation Gala ]]> Briana Pastorino Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital is set to commemorate 20 years of giving at the 20th Annual Foundation Gala, “Cirque du Jubilee,” on Thursday, March 7. The “big top” event will be held at the National Orange Show Events Center, 690 South Arrowhead Avenue in San Bernardino, CA.

Zareh Sarrafian, administrator for Children's Hospital, looks forward to this event every year. “Every gala is special,” he said, “but this 20-year celebration demonstrates the long standing support of the community. We are incredibly grateful that they have given our hospital the ability to meet the unique health care needs of the children in our region. Without their ongoing commitment we would not be able to provide hope and healing to the precious lives that come to us for care.”

This year’s gala aims to raise funds for multidimensional cardiac monitors for the pediatric intensive care unit at Children’s Hospital. Physicians and nurses rely on these vital monitors to offer lifesaving care around the clock for patients like 3-year-old Taylor Moore who, at age 2, was critically injured in a car crash.

“Thanks to the amazing capabilities of the cardiac monitor, Taylor’s medical team was able to continuously observe her condition,” says Sarah Gray, a PICU nurse at Children’s Hospital. “For every second of every minute of every hour of every day that Taylor was hospitalized, a cardiac monitor recorded the pressure in her brain along with her heartbeat and her every breath; and we were able to quickly respond to the smallest of changes.”

Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital recognizes that these changes and advancements would not be possible without the support of the community. This year, Hospital will recognize the following individuals:

  • Lee Ann Garman—Ringmaster Award
  • Wyatt Caley—Junior Hometown Hero Award
  • Stater Bros. Markets and Stater Bros. Charities—Shirley N. Pettis Award         

The festivities, including the silent auction, will begin at 5:30 p.m., and the program, which includes a live auction and cirque entertainment, will start at 7:30 p.m. To purchase tickets or for additional information, please call (909) 558-3555 or visit www.lomalindagala.org.

]]>
Thu, 28 Feb 2013 12:29:03 -0800
4264:8793 <![CDATA[Annual Postgraduate Convention begins tomorrow]]> It’s not too late to plan to attend the Annual Postgraduate Convention Weekend March 1–4, 2013, and earn continuing education credit. APC Weekend is also Homecoming Weekend for School of Medicine (honoring the classes of 1953, 1963, 1973, 1983, 1988, 1993, 2003) and many alumni will be returning to campus.

The registration fee for APC is waived for School of Medicine faculty, residents, and students. Online registration is now closed, but attendees may register on-site Friday morning, March 1, beginning at 7:00 a.m. on the fourth floor of Centennial Complex. Registration is required for all attendees.

A complete schedule of events and more detailed information is available on the School of Medicine Alumni Association’s website at http://llusmaa.org/?page_id=2443.

The full scientific program is listed here: http://llusmaa.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/APC-2013GeneralInformation.pdf.

]]>
Thu, 28 Feb 2013 11:50:02 -0800
4264:8756 <![CDATA[Orthopaedic surgery moves to Professional Plaza]]> Krista Miller Orthopaedics is moving!

The orthopaedic surgery office is moving to a new location in Loma Linda as of Monday, March 18, 2013. The new office will be located in the Professional Plaza at Loma Linda University Medical Center East Campus.

The new address is:

Professional Plaza, Building B

25455 Barton Road, Suite 102B

Loma Linda, CA 92354

For an appointment, call (909) 558-2808

]]>
Thu, 21 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0800
4264:8791 <![CDATA[Join us for open house ... ]]> Welcome Center open house

]]>
Welcome Center open house

]]>
Thu, 28 Feb 2013 11:40:58 -0800
4264:8602 <![CDATA[Notes from the President, February 2013]]> Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH

IN THIS ISSUE
What's in a Name?

Names carry significance in all cultures. Sometimes they tell where you are from, or what group you belong to. Most help to identify countries of origin. Organizational names are also important and signify reputations and history for decades, even centuries. There are few things that are of more value than a good name, giving a foundation to build upon. It is to be treasured and guarded for future generations.

Loma Linda has gone through a number of name changes in its 108-year history. It first started in 1905 as the College of Evangelists, and then became the College of Medical Evangelists when it added the medical school in 1909. While some wish we had kept the descriptive name of CME, it gradually became too limiting as more schools were added and the clinical services grew. The name change to Loma Linda University came in 1961, just six years after our 50th anniversary and four years after the first School of Dentistry graduation. In 1980, the Medical Center became a separate corporation due to the increasing complexity of health care and contracting in California.

In 1990, when we separated from La Sierra University, we began to call ourselves an “academic health center.” Then in 1997, we created a “parent” organization to serve as the “glue” to hold the entire campus together. This was called Loma Linda University Adventist Health Sciences Center, or LLUAHSC. While technically accurate and descriptive, this name was too long to either remember or understand easily. This is especially true for those who do not know us well. There are only a few administrators who actually work for LLUAHSC, while most employees are tied to one or several of the subsidiary organizations within Loma Linda.

As the organization continues to grow in size and complexity, now with six hospitals, eight professional schools, and more than 1,200 faculty including 800 physicians, the number of legal corporations has also grown. There are now some 32 different legal entities that make up Loma Linda. This has led to an increased complexity in names as well. When we need to talk about an individual entity, it is not too bad—Loma Linda University, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Loma Linda University School of Nursing, or Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murietta, for example. But when we are referring to the whole, it has become downright confusing. On one of our publications recently we started trying to list each of the Loma Linda organizations involved and the list became very long, with a different seal for every one.

So over the past two years, as we were preparing for Vision 2020, we recognized the need to have a unified name and “brand” for all of Loma Linda. As our reputation has grown across the country and world, we needed a “handle” that is easy to remember and refers to the whole enterprise. It needed to be something that includes the hospitals, the university, the faculty practice groups, and all the other activities. After careful consideration of many options, we have chosen Loma Linda University Health (LLUH). LLUAHSC will remain our legal name, but Loma Linda University Health will be our dba (doing business as), the name we use in our public relations and marketing activities. So when you see that name, know that it is still us, a growing complex with 14,000 employees continuing to do what we have done for 108 years. We are also placing a descriptor under the name—A Seventh-day Adventist Organization. We are proud of this identity and want to make clear who we are.

We are keeping our motto—To Make Man Whole—which was selected in 1955 at the time of our 50th anniversary and has become iconic for Loma Linda. Our mission statement was developed more recently and will also remain—Continuing the Teaching and Healing Ministry of Jesus Christ. Most organizations also have “tag lines” that further depict their activities. In marketing for LLUH, we have decided to use a tag line that the Medical Center has established with success—Many Strengths, One Mission. After searching for many good tag lines, everyone agreed that this was already one of the best, and describes us well, so we decided to use it for all of LLUH.

The final piece of Vision 2020 that we feel is imperative is to have a unifying concept, or theme, that makes us unique. I was surprised and pleased at how quickly our campus determined this should be our emphasis on wholeness and healthy lifestyles. So we are now expanding our traditional lifestyle programs and strengthening what we do on campus, as well as what we share with our patients and the community. In addition, we have our Living Whole program, which includes a number of wellness activities for faculty, staff, and students. While many talk about wellness programs today, no one features our unique understanding of spiritual awareness, a supportive community, and an emphasis on service to others. Let me share a link to an article on Loma Linda in The Atlantic this month that makes this point.

Few organizations have grown more significantly, yet remained the same for more than 100 years, than Loma Linda. When I read of the dreams and plans of our founders, they sound remarkably similar to what we have today. We still seek to excel in both education and health care. We send graduates around the corner and around the world in service. We continue to emphasize our spiritual values and understanding, with a major focus on whole-person care. While we upgraded our seal a few years ago, it still symbolizes our core features of education, research, and health care. We have simplified our core values to just five that are now shared across the enterprise—Compassion, Excellence, Integrity, Teamwork, and Wholeness.

I am particularly pleased with the increasing integration I see across this campus. We all recognize that we are stronger together, each benefiting from the activities and reputation of the whole. As we prepare for the lofty goals of Vision 2020, with a major building expansion on this campus, we commit ourselves to value and protect the heart and soul of this place. It has served us well for many years and will remain our foundation for the future.

Cordially,
Richard H. Hart, MD, DrPH
President
Loma Linda University Health

]]>
Thu, 21 Feb 2013 03:24:12 -0800
4264:8595 <![CDATA[Welcome Center to host open house March 1]]> Dustin Jones The Office of Public Affairs invites students, employees, alumni, and community members to an open house for the new Welcome Center on Friday, March 1, from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. Refreshments will be offered.

The Welcome Center is designed to be the first stop for guests visiting Loma Linda University Health. They will now have a central location to ask questions, receive tours, and find directions.

“Our campus is large and can be complicated to visitors,” says Rachelle Bussell, senior vice president for advancement. “Having a formal welcome center allows us to better serve the needs of visitors and guests.”

Located in the former home of the U.S. Post Office next to the LLU Business Center, the new Welcome Center features a comfortable lobby, generously made possible by the LLU Councilors, interactive displays, a large conference room, and screens to watch virtual tours.

“With this new addition to campus, visitors and members of the media finally have a central location to receive information,” says Tony Yang, MBA, assistant vice president of public affairs. “As we prepare for a national branding campaign, the new Welcome Center will play an important role to enhance the way we tell the Loma Linda story to a broader audience.”

The Welcome Center also houses the office of public relations, members of which were formerly spread between Burden Hall and Mountain View Plaza.

The office of public relations offers regular campus tours, publications management, writing, editing, public relations consulting, and social media coordination for the institution.

]]>
Thu, 21 Feb 2013 02:38:31 -0800
4264:8594 <![CDATA[Loma Linda profiled by major magazine 'The Atlantic' for good health]]> Heather Reifsnyder “The Atlantic” lauded the exceptional health of Loma Linda residents in an online article February 4 titled “The Lovely Hill: Where People Live Longer and Happier.”

As an “idyllic community,” the article notes, Loma Linda leads the nation in longevity.

The story attributes this good health to lifestyle choices practiced by the Seventh-day Adventists who make up a high percentage of the population.

For many Adventists, these habits include being vegetarian, remaining active, eating lots of nuts and vegetables, and attending religious services—all of which are associated with better health. Many publications have noted these findings, which come from the federally funded Adventist Health Studies at Loma Linda University.

The “Atlantic” article goes a step farther, noting new findings from the Adventist Health Studies—just published in the Journal of Psychosomatic Research—showing how foods affect emotion. The study looked at the consumption of more than 200 foods, including fruits, vegetables, legumes, grains, oils, dairy, fish, commercial products, and beverages. 

The results show that Adventists who eat foods typical of the Mediterranean diet—including fresh fruit, olive oil, nuts, legumes (not counting soy), and non-starchy vegetables—experience more positive and fewer negative mental states.

Conversely, those who ate foods more closely associated with a typical Western diet—such as red and processed meats, sweets, soda, and fast foods—experience fewer positive emotions. In women, a Western diet was correlated with negative emotion.

The “Atlantic” article—also featuring Adventist longevity stars Ellsworth Wareham and the late Marge Jetton—can be viewed at <www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2013/02/the-lovely-hill-where-people-live-longer-and-happier/272798/#>.

]]>
Thu, 21 Feb 2013 02:35:38 -0800
4264:8591 <![CDATA[New Barnes & Noble Campus Store includes authorized Apple retail sales]]> Nancy Yuen and Larry Kidder The fully renovated Barnes & Noble Campus Store celebrated its grand re-opening February 15. Officials were on hand from Loma Linda University Health, Barnes & Noble, U.S. Congressman Gary Miller’s office, State Senator Bill Emmerson’s office, California Assemblyman Mike Morrell’s office, and the Loma Linda Chamber of Commerce.

Barnes & Noble took over management of the Campus Store during summer 2012, resulting in new benefits including in-store and online textbook rentals as well as an expanding selection of e-textbooks.

In December, the Loma Linda University Foundation also partnered with Apple to become an Apple-authorized campus store, selling products including Macs, iPods, and iPads. Anyone who is employed by the University or Loma Linda Health may now purchase Apple computers at the company’s educational discount, according to Vincent Garcia, manager, computer sales.

Barnes & Noble Campus Store

11161 Anderson Street Suite 110

http://llu.bncollege.com

General inquiries: (909) 558-4567

Apple inquiries: (909) 558-4129

]]>
Thu, 21 Feb 2013 02:15:38 -0800
4264:8676 <![CDATA[Department of Traffic moves to new office]]> In preparation for its move to its new offices, the Department of Transportation, Parking and Traffic will be closed Thursday, Feb. 21, and Friday, Feb. 22.

The office will resume normal business hours Monday, Feb. 25.

The new office is located southeast of LLUAHSC 101 at 125 Club Center Drive. From its previous location, continue south on Club Way, turn east on East Club Center Drive, and enter the first driveway on the right. Take an immediate right into the green wrought iron fence area.

Shuttle services will be available during normal business hours.

For more information, call the Department of Transportation, Parking and Traffic at 909-651-3025 or ext. 53025; or email parkingdept@llu.edu.

]]>
Thu, 21 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0800
4264:8667 <![CDATA[Recent events remind to properly respond to the news media]]> Heather Reifsnyder Two recent and sad incidents have brought a lot of media attention to Loma Linda University Medical Center.

On February 12, two shooting victims from the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department arrived via air transport following a gunfight with a suspect believed to be Christopher Dorner. Sadly, one of the deputies passed away from his injuries, while the other is still undergoing treatment. He is expected to recover.

This crisis follows not long after a tour brush crashed into a pickup truck February 3 near Yucaipa, ultimately leading to eight deaths. Five victims were initially brought to Loma Linda University Medical Center, while four more were later transferred from other hospitals. One patient died, while the others sustained non life-threatening injuries.

“These tragedies serve to remind us that news media may gather at Loma Linda University Health at any time,” says Tony Yang, assistant vice president for public affairs. “Just like any other crisis, we need to be always prepared.”

The following are guidelines for responding to members of the media if you encounter or are contacted by them.

  1. Do not give any information out. There’s no such thing as “off the record.”
  2. Even if you are an appropriate source of information, refrain from answering any questions until you complete the following steps.
  3. Write down the journalist’s name, affiliation, and phone number.
  4. Politely but firmly ask the member of the media to wait until you have contacted the media relations team at Loma Linda University Health. Either ask the operator to page the media relations specialist on call, or, during normal business hours, you can also call the Office of Public Affairs at (909) 558-7000.
  5. If the media representative is on the premises without authorization, politely but firmly escort her or him to an area where you can call for a media relations specialist (see above).
  6. If necessary, call security.

In addition to news media, these recent situations have also brought a heavy presence of law enforcement officers to our campus. Thank you for carefully coordinating our efforts with them, always keeping in mind that the safety of our patients and staff comes first.

Because situations like these can occur at any time, employees should also wear their ID badges at all times.

Your help is important in protecting Loma Linda University Health. 

]]>
Thu, 14 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0800
4264:8510 <![CDATA[Web Center organized to bring LLUH campuses together]]> Larry Kidder and Nancy Yuen In the age of real-time information and instant access, Loma Linda University Health (LLUH) will take an important step in the development of its international presence on the web. A brand-new web center is being organized to bring all of the system-wide web functions—both internal and external—under one roof.

Jack Rose, MBA, director of enterprise project management for LLUMC, has been tasked, on an interim basis, with organizing the new Web Center.

“We’re aiming to consolidate the web-based activities across the university and health centers,” Mr. Rose explains. “We want to present a consistent message that will establish LLUH as a world-class leader in education, research and clinical care.”

As LLUH prepares to begin a national branding campaign, the new LLUH Web Center will allow the organization to provide up-to-date and targeted information for its many audiences. This is expected to increase Internet traffic, as the website becomes a chief source for information, as well as a more efficient way for patients, potential students, and others to interact with LLUH.

In addition, the LLUH Web Center will support the core functions of the organization, providing key intranet access and services for more than 13,500 employees and more than 4,600 students. The new center will be under the co-leadership of Tony Yang, MBA, assistant vice president for public affairs, LLUH, and Mark Zirkelbach, MPA, chief information officer, LLU Health Services. They will report to the Web Center Steering Committee, co-chaired by Kevin Lang, MBA, executive vice president for finance and administration/CFO, LLUH, and Rachelle Bussell, CFRE, senior vice president for advancement, LLUH, with members representing the university, LLU Medical Center, and the practice groups.

“Duplication is always a major concern of large organizations,” Mr. Zirkelbach points out, “and Loma Linda is no exception. Our consolidation of web activities will represent cost savings and increased efficiency in the years to come, as well as result in a more consistent style and message.”

LLUH first established a web presence in the 1990s. In the years since, the amount of web-based information and functionality has increased exponentially.

“We want to build a web foundation that will enhance our presence on the world stage,” adds Mr. Yang, “enabling LLUH to take its place as a worldwide leader in health, wellness, disease prevention, research, and education.”

Billy Hughes, PhD, dean of the LLU School of Pharmacy, suggests, “Having experienced LLU's web presence for the past 20 years, its exciting to be a part of the next phase of our web presence.” He continues, “The School of Pharmacy recognizes that the newly configured Web Center is at the core of LLUH branding, will unify our corporate message, and provide meaningful access to our excellent clinical, academic, and research service areas—many strengths, one mission.”

]]>
Thu, 14 Feb 2013 05:18:24 -0800
4264:8694 <![CDATA[Featured Video-LLEAP Dedication]]> LLUMC TV & Cable Services ]]> A special dedication was held on February 5 for the LLEAP transition.

]]>
Thu, 14 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0800
4264:8624 <![CDATA[Prostate cancer patients treated with proton therapy at LLU Medical Center show excellent quality of life ]]> Herbert Atienza A staggering 99 percent of prostate cancer patients treated with proton therapy believe they made the best treatment decisions for themselves, according to a new report released February 13 at the National Proton Conference in Washington, D.C. 

The report analyzed outcomes and satisfaction of approximately 6,400 prostate cancer patients, more than 80 percent of whom received treatment at Loma Linda University Medical Center’s James M. Slater M.D. Proton Treatment and Research Center.

“This report reaffirms the results we’ve seen from our patients for the past 22 years and supports the mountain of evidence regarding the efficacy of proton therapy,” says Jerry D. Slater, M.D., chairman of the center.

Dr. Slater and David A. Bush, M.D., vice-chairman of the department of radiation at LLU Medical Center, recently co-authored a similar study titled “Multi-Institutional Patient-Reported Quality of Life After Proton Therapy for Prostate Cancer Compared to Non-Treated Men.”

The just-released report was commissioned by the National Association for Proton Therapy (NAPT) and conducted by Dobson DaVanzo & Associates, LLC, an independent health economics and policy consulting firm. It looked at patient-based outcomes analysis and included personal questions that provided meaningful data that helps physicians make treatment decisions.

Not only did approximately 99 percent of the patients surveyed believe they made the best treatment decision for themselves, but an almost equal number—almost 98 percent—reported that they had recommended proton therapy to others. 

Additional key findings of the survey included:

  • Approximately 96 percent of patients were satisfied or extremely satisfied with proton therapy.
  • Ninety-two percent of patients reported that their quality of life was better or the same today than it was before their treatment. Only 8 percent stated that their quality of life was worse.
  • Ninety-two percent of respondents reported that physical health or emotional problems did not interfere, or interfered very little, with their social activities.
  • Those who completed proton therapy for the treatment of prostate cancer had similar urinary, bowel and hormonal health-related quality-of-life (HRQOL) measures compared to healthy individuals. For patients who received hormone therapy in addition to proton therapy, lower sexual HRQOL measures were reported. However, when looking at patients who received only proton therapy for the treatment of prostate cancer and who did not receive hormone or photon therapy, proton therapy patients reported lower HRQOL than healthy individuals in only one category, “sexual bother,” which refers to annoyance related to their sexual symptoms.

In addition to prostate cancer, proton therapy is effectively used to treat many different types of cancer. The outcomes of the NAPT survey can be attributed to the pinpoint accuracy of the highly targeted proton beams. According to Dr. Slater, “Proton therapy is extremely effective as a treatment for prostate cancer because the targeted proton beams spare surrounding healthy tissue and minimize the typical side effects from standard photon beam radiation including incontinence and impotence.”

Since LLU Medical Center introduced modern proton treatment for cancer into the mainstream in 1990, there have been countless studies and trials that have shown proton therapy to be the treatment of choice for many types of cancer. Over the years proton treatment has been refined and, coupled with leading-edge technology, has become one of the best treatment options for doctors and patients.

While prostate cancer remains one of the primary uses for proton therapy, the pinpoint accuracy of the proton beam also makes it a highly effective form of treatment for many other types of tumors including those found in the head, neck, lung, and breast.

]]>
Thu, 14 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0800
4264:8693 <![CDATA[Feature Video-LLU Open House]]> Carl Canwell ]]> A helicopter landed on the Campus Mall on Sunday, February 10, to kick off the Open House for Loma Linda University.

]]>
Thu, 14 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0800
4264:8687 <![CDATA[Congratulations from Ruthita Fike]]> Ruthita Fike ]]> Congratulations to everyone on the LLEAP transition.

]]>
Thu, 07 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0800
4264:8664 <![CDATA[LLEAP goes live]]> Medical Center administration We dreamed, planned, trained, and prepared …

What LLEAP means

Loma Linda Electronic Access Portal is an electronic medical records program designed by Epic Systems Corporation. Prior to LLEAP going live on February 5, we had many disparate systems for managing clinical operations and billing. 

LLEAP provides a single platform to support patient-centered care across all clinical departments while reducing fragmentation, improving quality, and managing cost.  

We believe it will be an essential tool for giving patients seamless access to their own health care.

Here’s what’s happening

With LLEAP having gone live February 5, we want to first thank you for all of your hard work and dedication as we continue transitioning to the new integrated system. 

While we expect some extra challenges during this critical transition, we want to ensure that we continue our commitment to a faithful patient-centered experience.  We all know how easy it is to get focused on the process and to forget the need to take care of others, including our patients, families, physicians and each other.

Here is a brief statement to help you introduce LLEAP to our patients, families, and visitors. Please remember a smile and a helpful attitude go a long way.

“We are currently upgrading to a new electronic system.  The system will allow for a single patient record across our health system and will help us to better serve our patients. We thank you for your patience as we improve our ability to provide the best possible care.”     

We have included a list of resources available for you to help convey our regret should we temporarily fail to meet their expectations.

  • If lobbies become crowded, you may advise families and visitors of the outdoor seating/patio areas available for their use.
  • Escort visitors to their desired destination.
  • Contact EVS or the Operations Command Center to obtain the following:
  • Extra seating if the need arises
  • Service recovery items such as coupons/gift certificates for the Gift Shop and Cafeteria

In order to help facilitate patient and visitor flows, provide additional support, and communicate the benefits of LLEAP, the following teams have adjusted their schedules to be prepared for potential back-ups in the outpatient and registration areas: Environmental Services, Hospitality Services, Security Services, and Food Systems & Operations.

Here's why

We have worked diligently to transition to LLEAP and we want to ensure that our patient experience as we go live continues to reflect utmost care and faithful service.

Questions?

Please contact your manager/director.

]]>
Thu, 07 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0800
4264:8697 <![CDATA[Loma Linda University Health opens new Welcome Center]]> Dustin Jones Guests to the Loma Linda University Health campus now have a central location to ask questions, receive tours, and find directions, thanks to the new Welcome Center.

“Our campus is large and can be complicated to visitors,” says Rachelle Bussell, senior vice president for advancement. “Having a formal welcome center allows us to better serve the needs of visitors and guests.”

Located in the former home of the U.S. Post Office next to the LLU Business Center, the new Welcome Center provides a point of first contact for visitors. With a comfortable lobby, generously made possible by the LLU Councilors, interactive displays, a large conference room, and screens to watch virtual tours, each visitor will be welcomed with a warm smile.

The Welcome Center also houses the office of public relations, which was formerly located in Burden Hall.

“With this new addition to campus, visitors and members of the media finally have a central location to receive information,” says Tony Yang, assistant vice president of public affairs. “As we prepare for a national branding campaign, the new Welcome Center will play an important role to enhance the way we tell the Loma Linda story to a broader audience.”

The office of public relations offers regular campus tours, publications management, writing, editing, public relations consulting, and coordinates social media for the institution. A few members of this team were previously located across the campus.

“Bringing all of these skilled professionals together under one roof will allow us to more efficiently coordinate our efforts to better serve the entire enterprise,” adds Mr. Yang.

As the move did not result in an interruption of services, the office of public relations is open for business in the new location. A grand opening for the Welcome Center is currently being planned.

The office of public affairs and the Welcome Center are located at 11157 Anderson Street and can be reached at (909) 558-7000. Marketing and advancement films, which are also a part of public affairs department, will remain in their current locations. 

]]>
Thu, 07 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0800
4264:8665 <![CDATA[New appointment in decision support services]]> Zareh Sarrafian, Chief Administrative Officer, & Steve Mohr, Chief Financial Officer As we continue in our commitment to providing faithful patient-centered care, we are blessed by leaders who are focused on delivering our mission within our community and beyond. 

We are pleased to announce the following leadership change:

In December of 2012, Angela Lalas was named LLUAHSC vice president for finance. Angela carries this new appointment along with her positions as LLU Shared Services chief financial officer and director of the LLU Foundation. We are delighted that along with her new VP for finance position, she will provide her leadership to LLUMC’s decision support department. 

In addition to continuing her work with Kevin Lang and Rod Neal in her prior roles, effective January 28, 2013, Angela is working closely with Steve Mohr, our hospital administrators, and our hospital teams to ensure that accurate and timely information is available to assist in making decisions about organizational operations and opportunities.

We are appreciative of the excellent leadership Sondra Leno has provided as an important bridge to Angela, and we thank Angela for accepting this role and feel that her skills and expertise will continue to help build a stronger, more effective finance team to efficiently support all aspects of our LLUMC operations.

]]>
Thu, 07 Feb 2013 00:00:00 -0800
4264:8689 <![CDATA[Welcome from the President of Loma Linda University Health]]> Richard Hart, MD, DrPH ]]> Thu, 31 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0800 4264:8675 <![CDATA[Lot X Event Parking Temporary Space Reduction - Feb 7]]> MCWebmaster To: Employees, Staff and Faculty From: Transportation, Parking & Traffic Date: January 30, 2013 Subject: Lot X - Event Parking

 

Here's what's happening…

On Thursday, February 7, 2013, LOT X will have a reduction of 150 spaces for the Dental Alumni Convention.

We highly encourage you to utilize the Shepardson Lot for available parking and to avoid frustrations.

Shepardson Lot

Additional Information…

Transportation Services will have additional shuttles available; the standard Blue Route and the Express Blue that runs directly from the Medical Center/School of Dentistry Lot. The Shepardson shuttle will begin its service at 5:00AM and conclude each day at 6:00PM.

Questions?

For Parking please contact: 909-651-3025 or ext. 53025
For Transportation please contact: 909-651-3020 or ext. 53020

]]>
Thu, 31 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0800
4264:8677 <![CDATA[2012 W-2 Electronic Wage and Tax Statement Now Available]]> MCWebmaster  

To: All MC, BMC, UHC, SS, and LLU Employees
From: Payroll Department
Date: January 17, 2013
Subject: Electronic 2012 W-2

 

Employees who registered to receive electronic wage and tax statements through www.paperlessemployee.com/LomaLinda should have recently received an email notification that electronic 2012 W-2 statements are now available. This communication was sent to the email address(es) that was designated during the registration process. Please be assured, this message is safe and is not SPAM.

Mailed W-2 statements will be postmarked by January 31 for employees who did not register for electronic W-2 statements.

For more information highlighting the benefits of electronic wage and tax statements, please refer to the January 1, 2013 PAYS article found at:
PeoplePortal > Payroll > Previous PAYS Topics > W-2s 20130101 PAYS.pdf 

Questions? Contact Payroll at 909-651-4004, x14004, or Payroll@llu.edu, Mon-Thu 8:00am-5:00pm; Fri 8:00am-2:00pm.

]]>
Thu, 17 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0800
4264:8154 <![CDATA[International vegetarian conference kicks off with roundtable]]> The Center for Christian Bioethics and the School of Public Health department of nutrition will host a pre-conference session of the 6th International Congress on Vegetarian Nutrition. The roundtable discussion will consider what values drive vegetarian diet research, public policy and advocacy, and explore diverse topics in the realm of vegetarianism, including environmental sustainability, animal rights and religious practices.

Panelists will include Claus Leitzmann, Ph.D., retired professor of the Justus-Liebig-Universität of Giessen, Germany; Marianne Thieme, LL.M., founder and leader of the Party for Animals in the Dutch House of Representatives; Sigve Tonstad, Ph.D., M.D., professor of religion and practice physician at Loma Linda University; and Roy Branson, Ph.D., director of the Center for Christian Bioethics.

The roundtable discussion will be held in the Centennial Complex Carol Small Amphitheater Saturday, Feb. 23, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Learn more about or register for the International Congress on Vegetarian Nutrition at vegetariannutrition.org/register.html.

]]>
Thu, 31 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0800
4264:8679 <![CDATA[MC Gift Shop Closure for Revitalization - Beginning Jan 25]]> MCWebmaster  

Loma Linda University Medical Center Gift Shop

 

Gift shop revitalization is underway.

CLOSED starting January 25
Our goal is to create an environment that is conducive to health and healing; creating a welcoming and peaceful retail experience for our patients, visitors, and staff. The colors and elements were chosen to create a calming, spiritual atmosphere.

Stay Tuned

The new Gift Shop will be revealed soon.
While the Gift shop is under construction, please visit the Children's Hospital Gift Shop.

New focus to include:

  • Living Whole Snack Products
  • Enhanced Book Store
  • Cancer Center Merchandise
  • And Much More

Payroll Deduction is available for employees.

Contact Information: 909-558-4755  |  Giftshop@llu.edu

Hours

Medical Center Gift Shop - Closed during renovations.

Children's Hospital temporary extended hours:
Sunday 10:00am - 6:00pm
Monday through Thursday 9:00am - 8:00pm
Friday 9:00am - 3:00pm
Saturdays Closed

View/print information flyer from the VIP Marketplace page on VIP

]]>
Mon, 21 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0800
4264:8691 <![CDATA[Loma Linda University Medical Center - Murrieta becomes a not-for-profit organization]]> Briana Pastorino Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta, located near Temecula, California, has officially changed its status from a “for profit” organization to “not-for-profit.” The change was effective January 1, 2013, and has no direct impact on day-to-day operations.

“We are excited about this new development in our history,” says Richard Rawson, MBA, hospital CEO. “This new status will give us the opportunity to become more deeply engaged with our community through charitable program development, auxiliary work, guilds, and our volunteer programs.”

This change in status means that profits generated by LLUMC – Murrieta will be redirected into the Murrieta community in the form of added services, outreach, and philanthropic activities. 

Loma Linda University Medical Center – Murrieta started as the dream of a group of dedicated physicians and members of the community. Together, after forming the corporation Physicians Hospital of Murrieta (PHM), LLC, which had a for profit status, they raised the needed funds to start the project.

In 2007, Loma Linda University Medical Center became a partner in the joint venture, and in 2011 federal legislation made it necessary for LLUMC to become the sole owner of the Murrieta facility.

“Becoming a not-for-profit organization was the next important step to continue our ongoing growth and development in the community,” says Ruthita Fike, MA, CEO of Loma Linda University Medical Center and chair of the LLUMC – Murrieta Board. “We are looking forward to a bright future for this campus as it grows and adds new services.” 

]]>
Thu, 31 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0800
4264:7866 <![CDATA[Lot X Construction Project Phase II - Begins Jan 7]]> Krista Miller Talking Points
To: Employees and Staff
From: Department of Parking & Traffic 
Date: January 3, 2013 
Subject: Lot X Construciton Project - PHASE II  

Here’s What’s Happening…

Effective Monday, January 7,2013 the south entrance and exit of Lot X will be closed as well as a reduction of some of the parking spaces on the west side.

Here's why…

The City of Loma Linda is starting construction of the Stewart Street underpass project. The first step is the installation of a new storm drain line that runs through the Centennial Parking lot. Construction will start on the north end and progress south.

Avoid frustration and use the Shepardson Lot at the corner of Shepardson and Benton Ave. There will be an additional and express shuttles running to and from the Shepardson lot directly to the Medical Center, the drop off will be at the School of Dentistry lot.

We apologize for the inconvenience.

Directions to Shepardson Lot

Questions?

Please contact:

LLUSS Parking and Traffic Services at 909-651-3025 or ext. 53025, or you may email the Parking Department at parkingdept@llu.edu 

]]>
Fri, 04 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0800
4264:7867 <![CDATA[Sabbath school explores poetry and the spiritual experience]]> The Roy Branson and Friends Sabbath School Class will explore "Eye of the Soul: Poetry in the Spiritual Experience" on Sabbath, Jan. 5.

Michael J. Orlich, M.D., director of the preventive medicine residency at Loma Linda University; Margaret Song, M.D., board-certified physician in internal medicine; Melissa Brotton, Ph.D., professor of English at La Sierra University; David Stone, M.A., high school English teacher at Loma Linda Academy; and Bonnie Johnson, M.P.H., retired editor of Loma Linda University publications, will be sharing poems that they have written or read that illustrates the role poetry can play in the spiritual experience. They will also share the spiritual significance of the poems or that of the process of writing and reading them.

The Roy Branson and Friends Sabbath School Class meets Sabbaths from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in Centennial Complex room 3111.

]]>
Wed, 02 Jan 2013 00:00:00 -0800
4264:7868 <![CDATA[Race may play role in mental health treatment access, says research]]> Brian Weed Jim Banta, Ph.D.According to newly published research, Asian and Latino parents were less likely to seek mental health treatment for their children than were parents of other races.

Jim Banta, Ph.D., associate professor in the School of Public Health's department of health policy and management, was the lead author on the article entitled "Race/Ethnicity, Parent-Identified Emotional Difficulties, and Mental Health Visits Among California Children" in the "Journal of Behavioral Health Services and Research." Dr. Banta collaborated with other authors from the Loma Linda University School of Behavioral Health, the Loma Linda University School of Medicine and from UCLA.

A link to the full article is available at www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23070565.

]]>
Thu, 27 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0800
4264:7536 <![CDATA[Campus Store to celebrate reopening with Christmas party]]> Flint Johnston The Loma Linda University Campus Store and Campus Computer Store has been under construction since the end of November. Construction and remodeling are finished and the store is celebrating with a grand reopening event.

Visit the store anytime between 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 19, for an open house celebration and Christmas party. Enjoy holiday music, cookies, hot drinks, and enter a drawing for a chance to win an iPod touch.

For more information, call the Campus Store at 909-558-4567.

]]>
Thu, 13 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0800
4264:7495 <![CDATA[CAPS Christmas Fiesta brings early gifts to community children ]]> Even cloudy skies couldn't dampen the Christmas spirit at the Community-Academic Partners in Service (CAPS) annual Christmas Fiesta Dec. 1.

The event hosted over 240 children from San Bernardino at the SACHS Norton Clinic who were partnered with a volunteer "big buddy" and made the rounds of the Christmas Village.

Activities included face painting, cookie decorating and candy-cane-reindeer making, as well as a petting zoo, bean bag toss games, caricature drawings, and a photo with Santa.

Parents were also treated to goodie bags and activities by the Azure Hills Church.

At the end of the event, each participating child received a Christmas gift donated by volunteers and local organizations. And, thanks to the generosity of donors, CAPS again received a surplus of gifts, which were donated to various local organizations to help spread the good cheer.

Over 290 volunteers from Loma Linda University, local churches and organizations made the event a success.

For more information about CAPS and other community outreach programs, visit the CAPS Web site at llu.edu/caps or email caps@llu.edu.

]]>
Wed, 05 Dec 2012 00:00:00 -0800
4264:7541 <![CDATA[Reported Fumes]]> LingLing Chao At approximately 10:30 am today, workers were spraying roofing adhesive material as part of roof repair. A small amount of that material passed into the intake ventilation system. A short time later, we were alerted of an odor inside the hospital. The affected areas were the main Medical Center operating room, emergency department, and the lobby level. So far, we have had a partial patient and staff relocation in the ED and are currently assessing other areas. B level and floors 2, through 5 have been cleared by the Fire Department. Children’s Hospital is not effected.

Some individuals have complained of nausea, vomiting, headache and burning eyes.

38 patients have been re-located from the emergency department. No other patients have been affected.

Our highest priority is the safety of our patients, visitors and employees. As such, we’re taking every step to ensure that everyone is safe. So far we don’t have any reports of any injuries to patients.

]]>
Thu, 18 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0700
4264:7540 <![CDATA[Grow Together Employee Giving Campaign's Last Week]]> Krista Miller Talking Points

To: All Loma Linda Employees
From: Dr. Richard Hart, President 
Date: October 4, 2012 
Subject: Grow Together -- Our last week!

Here’s What’s Happening…

  • We have been so blessed by the gifts and stories we are receiving! This is the last week of our Grow Together Employee Giving Campaign. While the campaign may be ending you still have the opportunity to give any time throughout the year.
  • Remember to turn your form in this week to be entered into our grand prize drawing!
    • Continuous giving donors are eligible for a $500 gas gift card or a $500 Disneyland gift card.
    • One time donors are eligible for a $100 Apple gift card with a $50 iTunes gift card or a $100 Visa gift card.
  • Attached is Dr. Hughes’ story about why he choses to give back to Loma Linda. If you have a story you’d like to share, please let us know by contacting the Office of Philanthropy.

Questions?

Please contact the Office of Philanthropy at 909-558-3555 or ext. 33555.

Thank you.

]]>
Thu, 04 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0700
4264:7538 <![CDATA[Documentary screening, panel discussion explore women's issues]]> Dilys Brooks Maternal mortality, gender-based violence, sex trafficking and forced prostitution are some of the issues facing women and girls worldwide. These issues prompt questions:

  • How can we turn oppression into opportunity for these women?
  • How do we educate women and girls or provide opportunities for economic empowerment?
  • Do these issues affect the male population as well?
  • What should Loma Linda University students, staff and faculty know as we prepare health professionals to serve nationally and internationally?
  • How do we raise awareness to the challenges that face women and children?

These questions will be addressed after a screening of "Half the Sky," a documentary film shot in 10 countries around the world. The film, "inspired by Nicholas Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn's book, … introduces women and girls who are living under some of the most difficult circumstances imaginable--and fighting bravely to change them."

Part one of this two-part film will be shown Monday, Dec. 3, through Wednesday, Dec. 5, at noon in the Councilors Student Pavilion conference room. Part two will be shown Wednesday, Dec. 5, at 5 p.m. in the Councilors Student Pavilion.

The latter screening will be followed by a panel discussion and a call to action, where attendees will be provided with opportunities to get involved through a variety of organizations.

Discussion panel participants will include Barbara Hernandez, Ph.D., director of physician vitality, Loma Linda University School of Medicine; Lesford Duncan, M.P.H., Los Angeles County coordinator for California Against Slavery (CAS); Dilys A Brooks, M.Div., M.S., M.A., associate chaplain; and others.

The Loma Linda University campus chaplains, the Loma Linda University School of Public Health, the Loma Linda University School of Behavioral Health, the Domestic Violence Task Force and The Human Trafficking Task Force sponsor this event.

This is the first of a series of events by the Loma Linda campus chaplains providing opportunities for students and employees to participate in local, national and international service.

]]>
Wed, 28 Nov 2012 00:00:00 -0800
4264:7539 <![CDATA[Reminder: Who are Seventh-day Adventists? Lunch & Class]]> Krista Miller Who are Seventh-day Adventists? 

Here at Loma Linda, we are blessed by employees from many faith traditions who help us live out our mission. Whether you have worked here for quite some time or are a new employee, you may not be acquainted with basic beliefs of Adventists. You may have heard someone talk about the special gift of Sabbath or the focus on a healthy lifestyle.

If you are not a Seventh-day Adventist and would like to learn more, we invite you to join us for an overview of Adventist beliefs. You may choose to attend one or both of the lunch or dinner sessions. There will be time for questions following the presentations. 

Session 1: The Gift of Sabbath, The Health Message

Wednesday, October 10

Lunch meeting                 12:00pm – 1:00pm

OR

Dinner meeting                5:30pm – 7:00pm

Session 2: Death & the Second Coming, Knowing God

Monday, October 22

Lunch meeting                 12:00pm – 1:00pm

OR

Dinner meeting                5:30pm – 7:00pm

Location: Rock Room, Wong Kerlee Conference Center

Free registration is limited to the first 30 respondents

Please call Employee Spiritual Care at ext. 48406 to register or for more information.

]]>
Wed, 03 Oct 2012 00:00:00 -0700