Providence Health Magazine Winter 2016

January 5, 2016

A new year and a new resolve to focus on your health. Every January it’s the same resolution: We vow to begin eating right and getting fit. It’s not always easy, and by February the promises to ourselves often are forgotten. To help you, this edition of Providence features 10 things you can do for your health now.

January also is a time to take a good look at things we tend to put off–including that potentially lifesaving colonoscopy. Inside our magazine is an article on maintaining gastrointestinal health and the numerous treatments that can help resolve common GI conditions.

We also feature a glimpse into the future of emergency departments. Health care is changing, and Providence emergency care is at the forefront with customer-based service models and high technology that includes making experts available around the clock via remote programs. What won’t change is our longtime tradition of dedication to excellent, compassionate care.

Our hospitals are filled with some of the finest physicians and nurses to care for patients, plus behind-the-scenes caregivers who ensure quality care. Connie Lackey, director of emergency preparedness, safety and security for our three San Fernando Valley hospitals, has earned a national reputation for disaster planning. Connie, a registered nurse, leads our patient safety efforts—from controlling the spread of infection to preparing for the next big earthquake.

Finally, we recognize that medicine is just one facet of patient care. Mary Smidderks, a volunteer at Providence Holy Cross Medical Center in Mission Hills, brings to patients a cheerful break: formal tea parties! For years Mary has wheeled her tea cart into patient rooms, sharing fine china, cookies and tea—an event that warms both body and mind.

I hope you enjoy our first edition of Providence for 2016 and wish you a very happy and healthy New Year.

Karl Carrier
Interim Regional Chief Executive

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