B e r k s h i r e H e a l t h S y s t e m s E m p l o y e e N e w s l e t t e r

ScopeJuly 23, 2015

Volume 37 Issue 13

Wellness Celebrates 10 Years BHS Employees Draw Tremendous Benefit from Groundbreaking Program

Over the past ten years, the Berkshire Health Systems

WellnessWorks program has steadily grown, providing BHS employees with a unique benefit that promotes health and well-being and helps the employee to save money on their health insurance at the same time. The 10th anniversary of Wellness was celebrated throughout BHS in July, with special events held at Berkshire Medical Center, Fairview Hospital, the Hillcrest Campus of BMC and the Northern Berkshire Campus of BMC. In all, nearly 800 employees attended the events.

Above: Close to 800 Berkshire Health Systems employees celebrated the 10th anniversary of WellnessWorks at events held at BMC, Fairview and the Hillcrest and Northern Berkshire Campuses of BMC.

At left: The Wellness celebrations included lots of healthy food, along with the chance to gather with colleagues also committed to health and well-being.

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Michael Cohn, MD, FACS; Eugene Curletti, MD, FACS; Michael DiSiena, DO, FACS; José Heisecke, MD, FACS; Andrew Lederman, MD, FACS; Christian Galvez, MD, FACS; Wilfred Carney, MD, FACS; and George Veinoglou, MD, FACS.

Wellness Celebrates 10 Years continued from page 1

Below, left: Employees from across the spectrum celebrated Wellness, including, from left to right, Brent Markland, Angela Lindaas and Bill Parent from BMC Environmental Services.

Below, right: Mary Ellen Eliasen shows off her Hula Hoop skills during the Wellness celebration at the Northern Berkshire Campus of BMC.

At left: A gratitude tree was on display during all of the events, including this one at the Fairview Hospital celebration.

BMC North Campus Holds Decon Training

At left: The Mobile Decontamination Unit was brought to the Northern Berkshire Campus of BMC by the North Adams Fire Department, and here staff from the North Campus work to erect the Unit to handle patients in need of decon.

Right: Members of the Decon Team from BMC, in their hazardous materials suits, decontaminate the “patients” who were in need of decon during the training exercise.

In the event of a contamination incident, the Northern Berkshire Campus of BMC is ready to care for patients who would be brought to or present at the Satellite Emergency Facility. On June 29th, staff from the Northern Berkshire Campus

and the main hospital held a training program outside the SEF entrance, where mock patients, or mannekins, were decontaminated using the Mobile Decontamination Unit (MDU). Berkshire Health Systems has access to three MDUs – at BMC, Fairview and the Northern Berkshire Campus of BMC – to decontaminate patients who may be effected by such an incident in the community.

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Dr. Veeranna Joins Cardiology Services at BMC

Berkshire Health Systems announces the appointment of Vikas Veeranna, MD, a board certified and fellowship trained Cardiologist to the medical staff of Berkshire Medical Center and the

physician staff of Cardiology Professional Services of BMC. Dr. Veeranna is accepting new patients in need of Cardiology care and is teamed with Drs. Jeffrey Leppo, Kyle Cooper, Kristen Currie, David Finck, Douglas Herr, William Levy, Henry Lyle, Lisa Massie, Teresa Menendez, Andrew Potash, Mara Slawsky and Georgianne Valli-Harwood at BMC.

Dr. Veeranna is board certified in Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Disease and completed his residency at Wayne State University/Detroit Medical Center. He was fellowship trained in Cardiovascular Diseases at Wayne State University and in Advanced Cardiac Imaging at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. He received his medical degree from Bangalore Medical College, India.

Cardiology Professional Services of BMC has three locations across the Berkshires, in Pittsfield, Great Barrington and North Adams. To make an appointment with Dr. Veeranna or one of his colleagues, ask your physician for a referral or call 413-395-7580.

Dr. Patel Joins Berkshire OB/GYN of BMC as Practice Expands North Berkshire Care

Berkshire Health Systems announces the appointment of Kalpesh Patel, MD, an Obstetrician and Gynecologist, to the medical staff of Berkshire Medical Center and the physician staff of Berkshire

OB/GYN of BMC. Dr. Patel is accepting new patients in need of OB/GYN care and is practicing both out of the North Berkshire office and Pittsfield office of Berkshire OB/GYN of BMC. He is providing comprehensive Maternal Child Health services and his appointment expands OB/GYN care for the Northern Berkshire community.

Dr. Patel is partially practicing in the Adams office of Berkshire OB/GYN of BMC with Charles O’Neill, MD, and Susan Yates, MD. The overall practice also includes Andrew Beckwith, MD, Herbert Kantor, MD, Daniel Barraez-Masroua, MD, Robert Benner, MD, Joan Lister, MD, Cassandra Service, MD, Michael Shreefter, MD, and Lauren Slater, MD, and Certified Nurse Midwives Lydia Kelly, Maribeth Pomerantz, Evelyn Resh and Robin Rivinus. Berkshire OB/GYN of BMC has three offices, in Adams, Pittsfield and Lenox.

Dr. Patel received his medical degree from Baroda Medical College in Baroda, Gujarat, India and completed his residency in OB/GYN at Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn, NY.

For an appointment with Dr. Patel, call Berkshire OB/GYN of BMC in Adams at 413-664-4343 or in Pittsfield at 413-499-8570.

BMC Surgical Services’ commitment to safety includes recent training using the Med Sled evacuation device. Team members practiced removal of surgical patients in a

vertical evacuation down the emergency exit steps. The total time from surgical suite to the outside exit was under five minutes.

"The team’s commitment to safety is witnessed every day in all aspects of surgical care,” said Sharon Parmenter, BSN, Perioperative Educator. “Their commitment to safety in simulated extraordinary events demonstrates the same level of intensity as a real-life incident would be in keeping patients safe." Pictured, team members Gary Sohl, MD, Kelly Tracy, CSTFA, and Brian Potter, Anesthesia Technician, during practice removal of Katie Stegner, CST, strapped into the Med Sled.

BMC Surgical Services Enhances Safety with Med Sled

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Matthew Painter, BHS Director of Leadership Development, with this year’s LearningElite honor.

Berkshire Health Systems has been named a Gold LearningElite organization for 2015 by Chief Learning Officer magazine, published by Human Capital

Media (HCM). This is the third straight year BHS has been recognized with a LearningElite award.

The LearningElite program is composed of organizations that perform above a benchmark standard for implementing learning and development (L&D) best practices for their workforce. Organizations are ranked based on their execution and impact of these L&D initiatives, and Berkshire Health Systems was ranked 28th in 2015 out of more than 200 applicants.

The LearningElite program is the only peer-ranking and benchmarking program of its kind. Developed through a collaboration of chief learning officers, senior workforce development practitioners and the Human Capital Media Research and Advisory Group, it utilizes rigorous evaluation methodologies to objectively assess both the scope and value of participants’ L&D practices.

“Every year the number of applications we receive grows, and this year was no exception,” said Sarah Kimmel, director of research and advisory services for HCM. “While our rigorous metrics and high standard for inclusion in the program remain consistent, we are seeing more organizations striving to surpass the benchmark and qualify. That organizations are increasingly recognizing the

importance of L&D in establishing a productive and fulfilled workforce is heartening.”

Human Capital Media is the largest integrated media company serving the human capital, management and workforce development industries.

Berkshire Health Systems Awarded Gold LearningElite Organization by Chief Learning Officer Magazine

Berkshire Heroes Nominees Sought by BMC Cancer CenterNominations are being accepted for the annual Berkshire Heroes recognition by the Cancer Center at BMC. Berkshire Heroes are the people and organizations that have had a positive impact on the lives of those being treated for cancer in the Berkshires.

Four categories of Berkshire Heroes are available for nomination. They include:

• Healthcare Providers at Berkshire Health Systems who spend their days and nights caring for the extraordinary people of the Berkshires.

• Patients who have helped each other get through a very difficult time.

• Caregivers who provide incredible support for their friends and family.

• Members and Organizations of our Compassionate Community, the people who fight to raise awareness for the cancer cause, philanthropists, researchers, or even just the folks who thought they were only making a small difference but in the eyes of the patient it was a huge positive impact.

The nomination process is open to all in our community. To nominate a Berkshire Hero, fill out an online nomination form at www.berkshirehealthsystems.org/berkshireheroes. A Berkshire Hero will be selected from each category and the recipients will be honored at the Garden Party Wine and Beer Tasting Event, which benefits the BMC Cancer Center, and is being held on Saturday, August 29th. Nominations must be made by Friday, August 7th.

The Berkshire Heroes recognized in 2014 included: Patient Hero, Krista Pinsonneault; Caregiver Hero, Elias Lefferman; Hero Professional, Julie Steinman, RN, BSN, OCN; and Hero Community Organization, PopCares, Inc.

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Berkshire Medical Center’s 2015 Culture of Safety Survey results have been compiled. In all, 880 staff completed the online survey. The survey included twelve composite sections with 42 questions. As you can see from the snapshot

graph, over the past several years BMC has shown great overall improvement.

As you know, patient safety is a critical component of healthcare quality. Achieving a culture of patient safety requires an understanding of:

• The values, beliefs, and norms about what is important in an organization

• What attitudes and behaviors related to patient safety are supported, rewarded, and expected

Here is what you told us about our safety culture:

The Quality Zone: Annual Culture of Safety Survey ResultsBy Erin Roark, BS, CPHQ

The Quality Management Team of BMC reviews all comments and results internally and with appropriate team(s) and senior leader(s).

Here are some of the actions in place to increase our patients’ safety:

• Medication Scanning Improvement Project

• Medication Safety Team

• Fall Debrief Documentation in Meditech

• Bed and Tab alarms – standardized access across BMC

• PUP (Pressure Ulcer Prevention) Team

• Staffing: hired resources to manage additional volume

Keep an eye out for our next Annual Culture of Safety Survey in January 2016, and thanks to all who participated in the 2015 survey. We value your input.

Quality Zone: Annual Culture of Safety Survey Results                                         By Erin Roark, BS, CPHQ  Berkshire Medical Center’s 2015 Culture of Safety Survey results have been compiled.  In all, 880 staff completed the online survey. The survey included twelve composite sections with 42 questions. As you can see from the snapshot graph, over the past several years BMC has shown great overall improvement.  As you know, patient safety is a critical component of healthcare quality. Achieving a culture of patient safety requires an understanding of: 

• The values, beliefs, and norms about what is important in an organization and • What attitudes and behaviors related to patient safety are supported, rewarded, and expected. 

 Here is what you told us about our safety culture:  

BMCFY 2012

BMCFY 2014

BMCFY 2015

# Respondents 968 877 880Frequency of Events Reported 47% 50% 70% 23%Teamwork Within Units 62% 68% 79% 17%Management Support for Patient Safety 51% 64% 67% 16%Teamwork Across Units 40% 48% 56% 16%Feedback & Communication About Error 50% 59% 64% 14%Org Learning--Continuous Improvement 54% 58% 67% 13%Communication Openness 53% 61% 63% 10%

Overall Perceptions of Patient Safety 55% 62% 62% 7%Supervisor/Manager Expectations & Actions Promoting Patient Safety 65% 72% 72% 7%Nonpunitive Response to Error 38% 47% 40% 2%Handoffs & Transitions 30% 36% 30% 0%Staffing 50% 52% 43% -7%

Average Across Composites 50% 56% 59% 9%Top 2 Positive Responses (strongly agree/agree or always/most of the time)

Patient Safety Culture Composites - BMC Comparison from FY 2012 - 2015

∆ 2012 to 2015

  The Quality Management Team of BMC reviews all comments and results internally and with appropriate team(s) and senior leader(s).    Here are some of the actions in place to increase our patients’ safety: 

Medication Scanning Improvement Project  Medication Safety Team  Fall Debrief Documentation in Meditech  Bed and Tab alarms – standardized access across BMC  PUP (Pressure Ulcer Prevention) Team  Staffing:  hired resources to manage additional volume. 

 

Quality Zone: Annual Culture of Safety Survey Results                                         By Erin Roark, BS, CPHQ  Berkshire Medical Center’s 2015 Culture of Safety Survey results have been compiled.  In all, 880 staff completed the online survey. The survey included twelve composite sections with 42 questions. As you can see from the snapshot graph, over the past several years BMC has shown great overall improvement.  As you know, patient safety is a critical component of healthcare quality. Achieving a culture of patient safety requires an understanding of: 

• The values, beliefs, and norms about what is important in an organization and • What attitudes and behaviors related to patient safety are supported, rewarded, and expected. 

 Here is what you told us about our safety culture:  

BMCFY 2012

BMCFY 2014

BMCFY 2015

# Respondents 968 877 880Frequency of Events Reported 47% 50% 70% 23%Teamwork Within Units 62% 68% 79% 17%Management Support for Patient Safety 51% 64% 67% 16%Teamwork Across Units 40% 48% 56% 16%Feedback & Communication About Error 50% 59% 64% 14%Org Learning--Continuous Improvement 54% 58% 67% 13%Communication Openness 53% 61% 63% 10%

Overall Perceptions of Patient Safety 55% 62% 62% 7%Supervisor/Manager Expectations & Actions Promoting Patient Safety 65% 72% 72% 7%Nonpunitive Response to Error 38% 47% 40% 2%Handoffs & Transitions 30% 36% 30% 0%Staffing 50% 52% 43% -7%

Average Across Composites 50% 56% 59% 9%Top 2 Positive Responses (strongly agree/agree or always/most of the time)

Patient Safety Culture Composites - BMC Comparison from FY 2012 - 2015

∆ 2012 to 2015

  The Quality Management Team of BMC reviews all comments and results internally and with appropriate team(s) and senior leader(s).    Here are some of the actions in place to increase our patients’ safety: 

Medication Scanning Improvement Project  Medication Safety Team  Fall Debrief Documentation in Meditech  Bed and Tab alarms – standardized access across BMC  PUP (Pressure Ulcer Prevention) Team  Staffing:  hired resources to manage additional volume. 

 

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Walk it Off is an individual or two-person team weight loss and exercise program offered by BHS WellnessWorks. This program will help you lose weight, improve body composition and become more fit. Go to the WellnessWorks website to view participation requirements.

Registration will be limited to the first 30 participants. The program fee of $30.00 will be used toward prizes for exceptional performance in the areas of weight loss, body composition improvement, healthy habit scores, fitness improvement and total mileage. Questions? Please contact Jennifer Ward, RD, LDN, CLC, CPT, at 445-9160 or email: jward@bhs1.org.

Sign up to attend one of these informational meetings:

• Monday, August 24th at Noon or 1:00 pm, Clocktower, 5th floor large conference room • Friday, August 28th at 11:30 am or 12:30 pm, BMC Private Dining Room “D”

Mindfulness Made EasyLearn how the practice of being more mindful can help with stress management and overall wellness. Mindfulness is a lifestyle skill that anyone can do. Come to this workshop

where we will demonstrate a variety of Mindfulness techniques including; Mindful Meditation, Mindful Eating, Yoga, Tai Chi and Qigong. If you’ve ever wondered what these practices are all about, this is a great program for you to attend!

• Qualifies as a Wellness Education for 2016 Wellness Insurance Premium Discount• Be one of the first 15 people to pre-register and attend to receive a $5 lunch ticket and 10 Wellness Points• Pre-Registration Required: logon to the WellnessWorks website or call ext. 3100 for more information

Monday, 8/3 Noon Hillcrest Campus (Library)

Monday, 8/10 Noon Central Block (Large Conference Room)

Monday, 8/10 1:00 pm Clocktower (5th Floor Large Conference Room)

Tuesday, 8/11 Noon Fairview (Ground Floor Conference Room)

Monday, 8/24 11:30 am & 12:15 pm BMC (PDR “D”)

Join Mark Kenyon, LMFT, LADC-I, CEAP:

WellnessWorks (413) 447-3100

Visit the WellnessWorks page of the employee portal for more information and to register for any of our programs. https://www.bhswellnessworks.org

Creating a Culture of WellnessTaking Employee Health

to the Next Level... What can we do to make our workplace healthier?

Share your ideas and ways that we can support our co-workers in achieving

their wellness goals.

Jennifer Ward, RD, LDN, CPT, Wellness Registered Dietitian

Monday, August 10th at Noon Northern Berkshire Campus of BMC Small Dining Area, Near Cafeteria

Sign up on the Wellness Works website: https://www.bhswellnessworks.org. Bring your lunch and earn 10 Wellness points. This program will satisfy the

education requirement for 2016 Wellness Health Plan eligibility.

August 3rd–31st (Sign up 7/27-8/9)

Chug-A-Jug Water Challenge

Fitness Challenges: $25 Dick’s Gift Card Balance Jump Rope Hula HoopNorth Campus Mary Ellen Eliasen Ann Connors Dale BalawenderFairview Wendy Farnham Luzita Lopez Erica BrownBMC Brittany Lusignan Anthony Alfonso Samantha Kadki Hillcrest Campus Ashley Gangell Danielle Townend Sherry Benedetti-Zepka

Grand Prize Winners: Fit Bit: Rotjana Anello, Pam Bouchard Ball Chair: Lisa Fisher, Ed HaskinRed Sox/Yankee Tickets: Emily Linendoll Red Sox/Mets Tickets: Margie Carty Canyon Ranch Spa Day: Cindy Sprague-Bellard , Pat Lescarbeau, Ann Connors, Peg Trombley

Congratulations to our Wellness Celebration Winners!

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Diversity Includes YouFocus: Unconscious Bias and Ableism

Unconscious bias is an automatic reaction to someone based on a past life experience, either positive or negative. Unconscious biases are habits of mind that are learned over time through repeated experiences and are highly resistant to change. Even consciously inclusive people may hold negative stereotypes and attitudes for which they are not fully aware.*

Examples of Ableism include:

• Treating people with disabilities as if they have an illness

• Avoiding people with disabilities

• Focusing on the disability and not the person

• Assuming that people with disabilities are unhappy

• Talking about people with disabilities as if they are objects

• Speaking directly to a family member, friend, or caregiver of the person with a disability instead of speaking with the actual individual

• Speaking for someone with disabilities when they can speak for themselves

• Dismissing mental and emotional disabilities

• Not taking the time to learn about the abilities of a person with respectful, timely questions

Unconscious biases hurt. Become aware of your unconscious biases.

*Reference: 2007. Burgess D., van Ryn M., Dovidio, J., Saha S. Reducing Racial Bias Among Healthcare Providers: Lessons from Social-Cognitive

Psychology. Journal of General Internal Medicine.

Don’t forget to share your diversity story, no matter what your perspective, in our Diversity survey on the employee portal.

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Job OpportunitiesS c o p e 7

Job OpportunitiesBMC Postings 03/09/07Maternal Child Health/Special Care Nursery, RN, 32 Hr D/E5 South Medical, RN, 36 Hr D/E5 South Medical, RN, 36 Hr E/N5 South Medical, RN, 32 Hr/E5 South Medical, RN, 32 Hr/E5 South Medical, RN, 40 Hr/Night Special5 South Medical, Nursing Assistant, 32 Hr/D5 South Medical, Nursing Assistant, 32 Hr/D5 South Medical, Nursing Assistant, 32 Hr/E5 South Medical, Nursing Assistant, 32 Hr/NStroke Unit, Nursing Assistant, 32 Hr/DStroke Unit, Nursing Assistant, 32 Hr/NNOF, Nursing Assistant, 8 Hr/DNOF, Nursing Assistant, 8 Hr/DNOF, Nursing Assistant, 24 Hr/DNOF, Nursing Assistant, 24 Hr/DNOF, Nursing Assistant, 32 Hr/DNOF, Nursing Assistant, 32 Hr/DNOF, Nursing Assistant, 8 Hr/ENOF, Nursing Assistant, 8 Hr/ENOF, Nursing Assistant, 24 Hr/ENOF, Nursing Assistant, 24 Hr/ENOF, Nursing Assistant, 32 Hr/ENOF, Nursing Assistant, 32 Hr/EStroke Unit, Unit Secretary, 12 Hr/ESafety & Security, Lead Guard, 16 Hr/NSafety & Security, Safety & Security Guard, 16 Hr/DSafety & Security, Safety & Security Guard, 16 Hr/ESafety & Security, Safety & Security Guard, 24 Hr E/NSafety & Security, Safety & Security Guard, 32 Hr E/NSafety & Security, Safety & Security Guard, 16 Hr/NSafety & Security, Safety & Security Guard, 16 Hr/NHillcrest Health, Charge Entry, 40 Hr/DSmoking Cessation, Tobacco Treatment Counselor, 32 Hr D/EAnesthesia, Anesthesia Technician, 40 Hr/EWomen’s Imaging, Diagnostic Technologist, 32 Hr/DWomen’s Imaging, Mammography Tech., Non-ScheduledRadiology, Radiology Aide, 25 Hr/ENutrition, Dietitian, 40 Hr/DFood Services, Dietary Aide, 40 Hr/NCase Management, Secretary, 8 Hr/D

BHS Posting 03/09/07Patient Accounting, Biller/Collector, 40 Hr

BMC Postings 03/16/07Maternal Child Health/Special Care Nursery, RN, 32 Hr D/E3 East Surgical, RN, 32 Hr/E Temp.3 East Surgical, RN, 32 Hr/ECritical Care, RN, 32 Hr D/ECritical Care, RN, 36 Hr D/E2 East Rehab, RN, 24 Hr D/NPerianesthesia/Crisis, RN, 36 Hr/NPerianesthesia/Crisis, RN, 36 Hr/NPerianesthesia, RN, 24 Hr/D Temp.Ambulatory Surgery, RN, 40 Hr/D3 East Blue, Clinical Team Leader, 40 Hr/EExpress Care, Physician Assistant, 40 Hr/RotatingRadiology, Ultrasound Technologist, 32 Hr D/ERespiratory Therapy, Registered Resp. Therapist, 40 Hr E/NRespiratory Therapy, Registered Resp. Therapist, 40 Hr E/N

BMC Postings 03/16/07 (continued)Access Services, Access Reception Specialist, 40 Hr/DPatient Relations, Patient Services Coordinator, 40 Hr/DEnvironmental Services, Housekeeper, 40 Hr/DEnvironmental Services, Housekeeper, 40 Hr E/NEnvironmental Services, Project Worker, 40 Hr/NTransport, Transport Aide, 24 Hr/EFood Services, Dietary Aide, Non-ScheduledStroke Unit, Unit Secretary, 16 Hr/D

BVNA Postings 03/16/07Berkshire Health SystemsLTC, Referral Specialist, 40 Hr/DLTC, Referral Specialist, 40 Hr/D

BHS Postings 03/16/07Berkshire Visiting Nurse AssociationHome Health Aide, Non-Scheduled

For Fairview Hospital positions, contact Bertha Holcomb at(413) 528-0790. For all other positions, please call theBerkshire Health Systems Employment Office at 447-2784.

ScopePlease direct any comments, questions or suggestions for Scopeto Development and Community Relations at 447-2060.

Editor: Ruth BlodgettWriters: Mike Leary, Elzbieta “Ala”TrzepaczLayout and Printing: Deirdre McKenna, Materials Management

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4 West Telemetry, RN, 24 Hr/E4 West Telemetry, RN, 24 Hr/E4 West Telemetry, RN, 32 Hr/E2 East Observation, RN, 36 Hr E/N2 East Observation, RN, 36 Hr E/N2 East Rehab, RN, 32 Hr/E3 East Blue, RN, 16 Hr/EMaternal Child Health/Mother Baby Unit, RN, 24 Hr D/NMaternal Child Health/Mother Baby Unit, RN, 40 Hr/Night SpecialMaternal Child Health/Pediatrics, RN, 32 Hr/E Temp.Renal, RN, 36 Hr D/EWomen’s Health/Men’s Health Care Coordination, RN, 30 Hr/DEndoscopy, LPN or Certified Surgical Technician, 40 Hr/D5 South, Nursing Assistant, 32 Hr/NOR, Perioperative Aide, 40 Hr/D Temp.Renal, Hemodialysis Technician, 30 Hr/DRadiology, Imaging Support Specialist, Non-ScheduledRadiology, Imaging Support Specialist, Non-ScheduledBFS Neurology, Medical Assistant II, 40 Hr/DFood Services, Dietary Aide, 40 Hr/NMain OR, Preference Card Coordinator, 40 Hr/D BHS Postings 08/22/08Information Systems, Clinical Analyst – Pharmacy, 40 Hr/DInformation Systems, BFS Applications Specialist, 40 Hr/D Temp. BMC Postings 08/29/083 East Surgical, RN, 40 Hr/Night Special5 South, Clinical Leader, 40 Hr/EBehavioral Sciences/McGee Unit, RN, 32 Hr/ENOF, RN, 32 Hr/ENOF, RN, 40 Hr/Night SpecialNOF, RN, 40 Hr/Night Special3 East Surgical, Nursing Assistant, 32 Hr/D5 South, Nursing Assistant, 32 Hr/ENOF, Nursing Assistant, 32 Hr/DNOF, Nursing Assistant, 8 Hr/ENOF, Nursing Assistant, 8 Hr/ENOF, Nursing Assistant, 32 Hr/ENOF, Nursing Assistant, 32 Hr/NNOF, Nursing Assistant, 32 Hr/N4 West Telemetry, Unit Secretary, 24 Hr/NBehavioral Sciences, Psych Aide, Non-ScheduledBehavioral Sciences, Clinical Therapist, Non-Scheduled D/E/NBehavioral Sciences/Partial Hospitalization, Social Worker III, 8 Hr/DPharmacy, Pharmacy Tech I, 40 Hr/D BHS Posting 08/29/08BHS/BFS Billing, Patient Accounting Supervisor, 40 Hr/D Fairview Postings 09/03/08Med/Surg, Director of 2MS, CCU, SDC, 40 Hr/DRehabilitation, Occupational Therapist, Per DiemPharmacy, Pharmacist, 8 Hr/D-WeekendAdmitting, Admitting Officer, 34 Hr D/EMed/Surg, Nursing Assistant, 24Hr D/E/N

Scope is printed on 30% post-consumer recycled paper.

BMC Postings 08/22/08

American Heart Association Annual Heart Walk Sunday, September 28 at Wahconah Park. 9 a.m.– registration, 10 a.m.– walk. Anyone interested in par-ticipating, call Carol Nixon, ext. 9350. All walkers Earn 10 Wellness points.

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Job OpportunitiesS c o p e 7

Job OpportunitiesBMC Postings 03/09/07Maternal Child Health/Special Care Nursery, RN, 32 Hr D/E5 South Medical, RN, 36 Hr D/E5 South Medical, RN, 36 Hr E/N5 South Medical, RN, 32 Hr/E5 South Medical, RN, 32 Hr/E5 South Medical, RN, 40 Hr/Night Special5 South Medical, Nursing Assistant, 32 Hr/D5 South Medical, Nursing Assistant, 32 Hr/D5 South Medical, Nursing Assistant, 32 Hr/E5 South Medical, Nursing Assistant, 32 Hr/NStroke Unit, Nursing Assistant, 32 Hr/DStroke Unit, Nursing Assistant, 32 Hr/NNOF, Nursing Assistant, 8 Hr/DNOF, Nursing Assistant, 8 Hr/DNOF, Nursing Assistant, 24 Hr/DNOF, Nursing Assistant, 24 Hr/DNOF, Nursing Assistant, 32 Hr/DNOF, Nursing Assistant, 32 Hr/DNOF, Nursing Assistant, 8 Hr/ENOF, Nursing Assistant, 8 Hr/ENOF, Nursing Assistant, 24 Hr/ENOF, Nursing Assistant, 24 Hr/ENOF, Nursing Assistant, 32 Hr/ENOF, Nursing Assistant, 32 Hr/EStroke Unit, Unit Secretary, 12 Hr/ESafety & Security, Lead Guard, 16 Hr/NSafety & Security, Safety & Security Guard, 16 Hr/DSafety & Security, Safety & Security Guard, 16 Hr/ESafety & Security, Safety & Security Guard, 24 Hr E/NSafety & Security, Safety & Security Guard, 32 Hr E/NSafety & Security, Safety & Security Guard, 16 Hr/NSafety & Security, Safety & Security Guard, 16 Hr/NHillcrest Health, Charge Entry, 40 Hr/DSmoking Cessation, Tobacco Treatment Counselor, 32 Hr D/EAnesthesia, Anesthesia Technician, 40 Hr/EWomen’s Imaging, Diagnostic Technologist, 32 Hr/DWomen’s Imaging, Mammography Tech., Non-ScheduledRadiology, Radiology Aide, 25 Hr/ENutrition, Dietitian, 40 Hr/DFood Services, Dietary Aide, 40 Hr/NCase Management, Secretary, 8 Hr/D

BHS Posting 03/09/07Patient Accounting, Biller/Collector, 40 Hr

BMC Postings 03/16/07Maternal Child Health/Special Care Nursery, RN, 32 Hr D/E3 East Surgical, RN, 32 Hr/E Temp.3 East Surgical, RN, 32 Hr/ECritical Care, RN, 32 Hr D/ECritical Care, RN, 36 Hr D/E2 East Rehab, RN, 24 Hr D/NPerianesthesia/Crisis, RN, 36 Hr/NPerianesthesia/Crisis, RN, 36 Hr/NPerianesthesia, RN, 24 Hr/D Temp.Ambulatory Surgery, RN, 40 Hr/D3 East Blue, Clinical Team Leader, 40 Hr/EExpress Care, Physician Assistant, 40 Hr/RotatingRadiology, Ultrasound Technologist, 32 Hr D/ERespiratory Therapy, Registered Resp. Therapist, 40 Hr E/NRespiratory Therapy, Registered Resp. Therapist, 40 Hr E/N

BMC Postings 03/16/07 (continued)Access Services, Access Reception Specialist, 40 Hr/DPatient Relations, Patient Services Coordinator, 40 Hr/DEnvironmental Services, Housekeeper, 40 Hr/DEnvironmental Services, Housekeeper, 40 Hr E/NEnvironmental Services, Project Worker, 40 Hr/NTransport, Transport Aide, 24 Hr/EFood Services, Dietary Aide, Non-ScheduledStroke Unit, Unit Secretary, 16 Hr/D

BVNA Postings 03/16/07Berkshire Health SystemsLTC, Referral Specialist, 40 Hr/DLTC, Referral Specialist, 40 Hr/D

BHS Postings 03/16/07Berkshire Visiting Nurse AssociationHome Health Aide, Non-Scheduled

For Fairview Hospital positions, contact Bertha Holcomb at(413) 528-0790. For all other positions, please call theBerkshire Health Systems Employment Office at 447-2784.

ScopePlease direct any comments, questions or suggestions for Scopeto Development and Community Relations at 447-2060.

Editor: Ruth BlodgettWriters: Mike Leary, Elzbieta “Ala”TrzepaczLayout and Printing: Deirdre McKenna, Materials Management

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Please direct any comments, questions or suggestions for Scope to Development and Community Relations at 447-2060.

Editor: Ruth BlodgettWriters: Mike Leary, Lauren SmithLayout and Printing: Deirdre McKenna, Materials Management

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4 West Telemetry, RN, 24 Hr/E4 West Telemetry, RN, 24 Hr/E4 West Telemetry, RN, 32 Hr/E2 East Observation, RN, 36 Hr E/N2 East Observation, RN, 36 Hr E/N2 East Rehab, RN, 32 Hr/E3 East Blue, RN, 16 Hr/EMaternal Child Health/Mother Baby Unit, RN, 24 Hr D/NMaternal Child Health/Mother Baby Unit, RN, 40 Hr/Night SpecialMaternal Child Health/Pediatrics, RN, 32 Hr/E Temp.Renal, RN, 36 Hr D/EWomen’s Health/Men’s Health Care Coordination, RN, 30 Hr/DEndoscopy, LPN or Certified Surgical Technician, 40 Hr/D5 South, Nursing Assistant, 32 Hr/NOR, Perioperative Aide, 40 Hr/D Temp.Renal, Hemodialysis Technician, 30 Hr/DRadiology, Imaging Support Specialist, Non-ScheduledRadiology, Imaging Support Specialist, Non-ScheduledBFS Neurology, Medical Assistant II, 40 Hr/DFood Services, Dietary Aide, 40 Hr/NMain OR, Preference Card Coordinator, 40 Hr/D BHS Postings 08/22/08Information Systems, Clinical Analyst – Pharmacy, 40 Hr/DInformation Systems, BFS Applications Specialist, 40 Hr/D Temp. BMC Postings 08/29/083 East Surgical, RN, 40 Hr/Night Special5 South, Clinical Leader, 40 Hr/EBehavioral Sciences/McGee Unit, RN, 32 Hr/ENOF, RN, 32 Hr/ENOF, RN, 40 Hr/Night SpecialNOF, RN, 40 Hr/Night Special3 East Surgical, Nursing Assistant, 32 Hr/D5 South, Nursing Assistant, 32 Hr/ENOF, Nursing Assistant, 32 Hr/DNOF, Nursing Assistant, 8 Hr/ENOF, Nursing Assistant, 8 Hr/ENOF, Nursing Assistant, 32 Hr/ENOF, Nursing Assistant, 32 Hr/NNOF, Nursing Assistant, 32 Hr/N4 West Telemetry, Unit Secretary, 24 Hr/NBehavioral Sciences, Psych Aide, Non-ScheduledBehavioral Sciences, Clinical Therapist, Non-Scheduled D/E/NBehavioral Sciences/Partial Hospitalization, Social Worker III, 8 Hr/DPharmacy, Pharmacy Tech I, 40 Hr/D BHS Posting 08/29/08BHS/BFS Billing, Patient Accounting Supervisor, 40 Hr/D Fairview Postings 09/03/08Med/Surg, Director of 2MS, CCU, SDC, 40 Hr/DRehabilitation, Occupational Therapist, Per DiemPharmacy, Pharmacist, 8 Hr/D-WeekendAdmitting, Admitting Officer, 34 Hr D/EMed/Surg, Nursing Assistant, 24Hr D/E/N

Scope is printed on 30% post-consumer recycled paper.

BMC Postings 08/22/08

American Heart Association Annual Heart Walk Sunday, September 28 at Wahconah Park. 9 a.m.– registration, 10 a.m.– walk. Anyone interested in par-ticipating, call Carol Nixon, ext. 9350. All walkers Earn 10 Wellness points.

Scope is printed on paper with post-consumer recycled content.

To view job descriptions and/or apply for a position at Berkshire Medical Center,

Fairview Hospital or BVNA & Hospice, please visit our website at:

www.berkshirehealthsystems.org and click on Employment.

BHS Job Opportunities

Savings and loan specials appear every day!

 

1450 East Street Pittsfield, MA 01201

(413) 447-7772 www.berkshirefcu.com

Summer SiZZLE!Get your beach on!

Start your Vacation Savings Account today and start thinking about the beach you want to be on!

Thanks and Recognition

Chaplain’s Corner: What is a Miracle? By The Reverend Art Kaufman, BMC Chaplain

So often we exclaim, upon seeing something out of the ordinary or an outcome that was extraordinary, “It’s a miracle.” But what is a miracle? Here are a few answers to that question:

“The invariable mark of wisdom is to see the miraculous in the common; Life is a miracle and you are a unique expression of this purposeful miracle.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

I prefer these definitions as opposed to attributing miracles to God or Allah, or Jehovah or Yahweh… when something really, really good and unexpected happens, or to something else or someone else when the outcome is not so good. I do this because I believe that each and every one of you are miracle workers and that every time you walk into a patient’s room or the OR or ER, regardless of the outcome, your skills, compassion and empathy work miracles in the lives of the people you care for in this hospital of ours.

S c o p e8

In Memoriam• Linda M. Green, who worked in medical records at Williamstown Commons Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, died on July 12th at the age of 59.

• Doris E. Carmain, who worked in the pharmacy of the former North Adams Regional Hospital, now the Northern Berkshire Campus of BMC, died on July 16th at the age of 84. She worked for NARH for 12 years.

The staff of Berkshire Health Systems offers its deepest condolences to their friends and family.

“Words alone cannot fully express our sincere gratitude and appreciation for the outpouring of love, kindness and generosity that we received during our recent family crisis. After Bob’s horrific accident on May 2nd, our family was blessed with wonderful cards, encouraging phone calls and very generous donations of earned time from so many friends, which enabled Bob to receive a weekly paycheck while he is recovering. I don’t know who you are, but please accept our sincere appreciation. And, as if this wasn’t enough, on July 11, a golf tournament at Bas Ridge organized by Gilles Laframboise was held in his honor. We would also like to thank all the people involved, from friends, volunteers, businesses who gave donations, players and our BMC family for taking the time out of their busy lives to make this event a huge success. We are very grateful to have friends like you – you definitely brightened our world more than you will ever know- from the bottom of our hearts, thank you all.” – Thank you to BMC/BHS staff from Bob and Sandy Wheat

“Always the best care. We are so grateful to have Fairview around the corner.” – Comment from a Fairview Hospital patient

“Considerate care was given by all staff, and the residents and/or interns were very helpful with questions. Operating room personnel were very good. Technicians doing procedures were helpful also.” – Comment from a BMC 2 South patient

“I rarely submit feedback, but in this case I was treated so well that I want you to know how much I appreciate everyone's efforts. I was treated like a human being, with respect and care. Thank you.” – Comment from a BMC Women’s Imaging Center patient

“All nurses on the 3rd and 5th floors were absolutely fabulous and very compassionate to your needs. The wound nurses should always be recognized, they also are special and caring. They helped me so much. Love to all the staff at BMC.” – Comment from a BMC Surgical Services patient

“From beginning to end and everywhere in between, everyone did an outstanding job. This included taking care of my friend while she waited to hear how I made out. When the time comes to do my left knee I will be back to see Dr. Kevin Mitts and BMC.” – Comment from a BMC Orthopedic Unit patient