SUMMER 2020SUMMER 2020

HEALTHHEALTH MATTERSMATTERS

Maury Regional named 15 Top Health System

New stroke technology

Tennessee state-cation opportunities

Managing diabetes myths

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A Message from the CEO...................................................2Maury Regional implements newstroke imaging technology ...............................................3MRH named 15 Top Health System ............................ 4-5 Tennessee offers state-cationopportunities ....................................................................6Three myths about managing diabetes ............................7Choosing your level of care ................................................... back cover

MAURY REGIONAL HEALTH1224 Trotwood AvenueColumbia, TN 38401

931.381.1111

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Our world has changed drastically over the past few months. In these uncertain times, we know that many of our patients may be apprehensive about seeking health care and I want to assure you of our commitment to your safety — now during the COVID-19 pandemic and always.In addition to our same strict standards, we have implemented enhanced prevention measures at all of our facilities. Th ese measures include:

• Point-of-entry screening for patients and visitors• Masking and screening of staff members• Modifi ed hospital visitation policy• Social distancing • Separating sick and well patients• Rigorous disinfection of surfaces• Hand sanitizer stations readily available• Video visit options at our Maury Regional Medical Group practices

From our hospitals to our medical practices, you can take comfort knowing that your health care and safety are our top priority. Delaying care may be detrimental to your long-term health. If you have any questions, please contact your physician’s offi ce to learn more about how we may provide the health care services you need while keeping you safe.

H. Alan Watson, FACHECEO Maury Regional Health

A Message from the CEO

HEALTH MATTERS | 3

Maury Regional implements new Maury Regional implements new stroke imaging technologystroke imaging technology

Maury Regional Medical Center (MRMC) recently added new technology to enhance our ability to treat stroke patients. Th e Rapid Processing of Perfusion and Diff usion (RAPID®) platform works with CT to map blood fl ow and provide fast, fully-automated diagnostic imaging. “Th e RAPID® platform is powered by artifi cial intelligence and provides blood fl ow mapping to give the stroke team at Maury Regional fast, fully automated and easy-to-interpret imaging for patients suff ering from a stroke,” said Jeff ry Ruff , D.O., a specialist in neurology and medical director for the stroke center program at MRMC. “Th is technology has enhanced our ability to expedite a diagnosis and treat more patients locally.” Benefi ts of the new RAPID® technology include:

Patients beyond the tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) window can be scanned quickly to determine if they are a candidate for clot retrieval.

RAPID® CTP provides perfusion maps to accurately identify reduced blood fl ow, cerebral volume and transit time.

RAPID® CTA automatically delivers CT angiography maps and identifi es brain regions with reduced blood vessel density in 2D and 3D views.

Th e RAPID® mobile app allows physicians to preview results on mobile devices and make clinical decisions quickly.

“As a result of implementing this technology, we have been able to make rapid assessments and treat many patients at MRMC who would have previously been transported to Nashville,” said Maury Regional Health CEO Alan Watson. “I am grateful for Dr. Ruff ’s leadership and insight while introducing this new tool to Maury Regional.” Maury Regional Medical Center is recognized with certifi cation as an Advanced Primary Stroke Center by Th e Joint Commission and American Heart Association/American Stroke Association. To learn more about Maury Regional’s stroke services, visit Stroke.MauryRegional.com.

HEALTH MATTERS | 3

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Maury Regional Health (MRH) has been named one of the nation’s 15 Top Health Systems for 2020 by IBM Watson Health®. Th is is the sixth time that MRH has been recognized with this distinction as one of the top performing health systems in the U.S.

IBM Watson Health identifi ed the top health systems from a rigorous evaluation of 332 health systems and

2,492 hospitals that are members of health systems. Th e annual list recognizes excellence in clinical outcomes, operational effi ciency and patient experience.“Th is recognition refl ects the ongoing commitment of our employees, physicians and volunteers to prioritize patient outcomes and safety for those we serve. As health care organizations across the country continue providing care during uncertain

Maury Regional Health named a top Maury Regional Health named a top health system in the nation for sixth timehealth system in the nation for sixth time

times, I could not be more proud of the way our team members are responding to these challenges,” said MRH CEO Alan Watson.Th e only health system in Tennessee to be recognized in 2020, MRH’s recognition was the result of data for its three hospitals — Maury Regional Medical Center in Columbia, Marshall Medical Center in Lewisburg and Wayne Medical Center in Waynesboro. Th e 15 Top Health Systems list is divided into categories of large, medium and small health systems, with fi ve systems recognized in each category. MRH was recognized in the small health system category. Th e 15 Top Health Systems study has been conducted annually since 2008. MRH was also recognized in 2011, 2012, 2015, 2017 and 2018. As compared to peer health systems, the organizations included on the IBM Watson Health 15 Top Health Systems list had better results on performance indicators intended to measure

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MAURY REGIONALMEDICAL CENTER

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WAYNEMEDICAL CENTER

MARSHALLMEDICAL CENTER

HEALTH MATTERS | 5

clinical outcomes, operational effi ciency and patient experience. Th ese include:

• Lower inpatient mortality rates and fewer patient complications, considering patient severity

• Care that resulted in fewer hospital-acquired infections

• Higher infl uenza immunization rates• Lower 30-day readmission rates• Shorter lengths of stay• Faster emergency care• Higher scores on patient ratings of their

overall hospital experience• Lower episode-of-care expenses for the in-

hospital through aft ercare process

“Hospitals, health systems and the dedicated clinicians and staff who work at these organizations have emerged as true heroes of the COVID-19 pandemic and we are grateful to be able to recognize these extraordinary leaders at this time,” said Kyu Rhee, M.D., M.P.P., vice president and chief health offi cer, IBM Watson Health. All research was based on the following public data sets: Medicare cost reports, MEDPAR data and core measures and patient satisfaction data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Hospital Compare website. Th e annual list was published in Fortune. For more information, visit 100tophospitals.com.

6 | HEALTH MATTERS

Tennessee offers state-cation opportunitiesTennessee offers state-cation opportunities Pandemic practices like social distancing and masking have required us to rethink our entertainment and vacation plans. As you and your family look for ways to enjoy some leisure time, consider these fun outdoor activities that Tennessee has to off er.

HikingTennessee has some amazing hiking trails at its state parks and natural areas. Pack a picnic lunch or some snacks in your backpack and make a day of enjoying nature. For a list of Tennessee hiking opportunities that include waterfalls, cave tours and birding opportunities, visit the Tennessee State Parks hiking webpage.

CampingIf you want to take your hiking beyond a day trip, most parks have camp sites open that allow for social distancing — many of which are pet-friendly. Keep in mind that most park pavilions, picnic areas and playgrounds are closed, so pack accordingly and enjoy meals with your family around the tent, along a scenic waterway or at an overlook. If you prefer an RV over a tent, the state has many sites equipped with water, electricity and sewer for vehicles ranging from 20 to 100 feet. Th e Tennessee State Parks camping webpage provides more detail and an opportunity to reserve a tent or RV campsite online.

Paddling, Boating or FishingWhether you have your own canoe or kayak or you want to rent one, many of Tennessee’s state parks off er paddling opportunities for families. For a list of paddling sites and new safety protocols, visit TNStateParks.com.

If you prefer fi shing, make sure you obtain a license and know the general rules by visiting the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency fi shing information website. Children under age 13 are not required to purchase a license.

BikingWhether you like mountain biking across wooded trails or cycling the scenic Natchez Trace Parkway, Tennessee off ers opportunities for all, from advanced to beginner level riders. Be sure to always wear a helmet and refl ective gear and take a map and bike repair tools. Also pack snacks and water to stay hydrated. For more information about cycling opportunities and locations, visit the Tennessee State Parks biking webpage.

Golfi ngFrom Pickwick Landing in West Tennessee to Warriors’ Path in East Tennessee, state courses off er many options to those who enjoy golf. To learn more about the nine state park golf courses available, visit the Tennessee State Parks golf webpage. If you’re engaging in these activities with others who live outside of your home, you should drive in separate vehicles, practice social distancing, mask whenever possible, wash or sanitize your hands frequently and use safe food sharing practices. For more information on how to protect yourself and others while enjoying the fresh air, visit CDC.gov/coronavirus.We’re all experiencing pandemic fatigue and there’s no better cure than to enjoy the outdoor beauty that Tennessee has to off er. For more recreational ideas, visit TNVacation.com. Stay safe and enjoy!

HEALTH MATTERS | 7

When it comes to type 2 diabetes, there are a number of myths circulating. It’s imperative to distinguish between fact and fi ction so you can maintain your health.Diabetes is a chronic disease that requires lifestyle changes, particularly to your eating and exercise habits. Diabetes aff ects nearly every organ in the body and poor management of it can lead to serious health complications, including an increased risk for heart attack or stroke, foot complications, nerve damage (neuropathy), vision problems and kidney failure.“Th at’s why it’s imperative to take control of your diabetes by doing your homework and making healthy lifestyle choices to prevent further complications down the line,” says Michelle Kennedy, RN, BSN, CDE, diabetes program coordinator for Maury Regional Medical Center in Columbia. As a condition that more than 30.3 million Americans currently have, there can be a lot of misconceptions out there about how to manage diabetes. Th ree common misconceptions about diabetes management include:1. Being overweight and/or eating too much sugar is the

main cause of diabetes. Both are risk factors that play a role in developing diabetes, but they aren’t alone. Family history, ethnicity, age and a sedentary lifestyle are also risk factors that can lead to the condition.

2. People with diabetes can’t eat sweets or anything white. Like with most things, the key is moderation. Instead of focusing on a particular type of food, be sure to have a balanced diet that meets your daily nutritional

Three myths about managing diabetesneeds to avoid overindulging in one type of food at the expense of another. To make sure you’re following a balanced meal plan, talk with a diabetes educator or registered dietitian.

3. Diabetes can “go away” over time. Diabetes can be put into a state of remission — meaning your body is eff ectively managing blood sugar without the need for medication due to positive lifestyle changes — but this does not mean the remission is permanent or that you are no longer susceptible to the serious side eff ects that accompany diabetes. Th at’s why it’s important to continue getting regular check-ups from your health care provider.

Ultimately, making responsible choices to manage your diabetes is crucial for maintaining your health.“Looking at the numbers, 95 to 99 percent of diabetes is self-management,” Kennedy says. “It’s all about your decisions: what, when and how much you eat paired with checking your blood sugar, taking your medication as prescribed, controlling your weight, managing your blood pressure, stopping use of tobacco products and exercising.”If you have been diagnosed with diabetes and are looking for guidance on how to manage the condition, talk to your primary care provider or a diabetes educator. For more information about diabetes management and resources available in southern Middle Tennessee, visit MauryRegional.com/Our-Services/Diabetes.

MAURY REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER1224 Trotwood AvenueColumbia, Tennessee 38401

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choosing your level of care:Primary Care, Urgent Care or Emergency Room

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Serious, life-threatening conditions should be treated in an emergency room.

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When your doctor is unavailable, urgent care centers provide treatment without delay.

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PRIMARY CARE $

Schedule a visit with your primary care provider for most health care needs.

Cold, flu, strep and other illnesses

Wellness visits and physicals

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If you are experiencing a medical emergency, go to your nearest emergency room or call 911.

Visit MauryRegional.com to find providers & locations.