Medical Staff Voice

JW Moore Tuesday, Noon, CME Conference “Human Factors 101: Designing Safety Into Healthcare Systems.”

Jessica Howe, Human Factors Research Scientist at MedStar Health National Center for Human Factors in Healthcare, Washington DC, will present a lecture on  “Human Factors 101: Designing Safety Into Healthcare Systems.”

 At the end of the conference, the learner should be able to: 1) Define Human factors and systems engineering approaches and describe their integration into applies safety efforts, 2) Describe how work-system elements interact to create safe/unsafe conditions, 3) Apply human factors engineering concepts to identify system hazards and design/develop solutions for safer care delivery systems

The conference will take place on September 21th, 2021, at noon, via ZOOM. This activity qualifies for AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ & AOA Category 1-A credit.

If you would like to attend this meeting, please contact CME Coordinator Erin Parker at eparker@cmhshealth.org or 805-948-5638, and an invite with a link to the meeting will be emailed to you.

Quarterly Medical Staff Meeting

CMHS Influenza Vaccinations 2021-2022 due by 10/31/2021 for All Physicians

It is the policy of the Community Memorial Health System to require proof of Influenza Vaccine administration or a signed declination form of all physicians and Allied Health Professionals annually in accordance with the CA Department of Public Health’s recommendation.  All Medical Staff and Allied Health Professional Staff members will be required to submit proof of vaccination or a completed Influenza Vaccine declination form.  If you wish to decline the vaccine please complete, sign and return the attached declination form to the Medical Staff Office.

Influenza Vaccines are available through the hospital’s Occupational Health Department, or may be done at another healthcare facility.  Attached is the CMHS September 2021 and October 2021 Flu Vaccination Clinic schedule.  If you have any questions regarding the clinics, the Occupational Health Department  can be reached at (805) 948-2886.  If you choose to have your flu vaccine administered at a non-CMHS clinic please provide a copy of your vaccination record to the Medical Staff Office and pick up the silver hologram security sticker to affix to your badge.

You can fax your Influenza Vaccine record to fax number 805-648-4295 OR e-mail CREDENTIALS@CMHSHEALTH.ORG

It is important to note that Flu vaccine documentation or a signed declination must be received by October 31, 2021.  Failure to submit this documentation prior to October 31, 2021, will result in the suspension of your clinical privileges pursuant to policy.  If within 90 days after the final past due warning the results have not been received by the Medical Staff Office, the member shall be considered as having voluntarily resigned from the Medical Staff or Allied Health Staff.

Thank you in advance for your prompt attention and support of our 2021-2022 Influenza Vaccination Program.  If you have any questions, please feel free to call us at (805) 948-5662.
– Medical Staff Services

Download PDF’s:
Flu Authorization form 2021-2022 – Authorization to Vaccinate/Declination of Vaccination Form: (click on the links for full calendars)
September-2021-Influenza Clinic Calendar
October-2021- Influenza Clinic Calendar-

EMPOWER Event – All Medical Staff  & Families Invited

JW Moore Tuesday, Noon, CME Conference “Medical Professional Liability Trends- From COVID to Emerging Risks & Top Risks of Office Practice.”

Graham Billingham, M.D., FACEP, FAAEM; Chief Medical Officer at MedPro Group & Arlene Luu, RN, JD, CDHRM, Sr. Clinical Risk Consultant, MedPro Group will present a lecture on “Medical Professional Liability Trends- From COVID to Emerging Risks & Top Risks of Office Practice.”

 At the end of the conference, the learner should be able to: 1) Critically review the latest malpractice trend data and identify contributing factors, 2) Analyze the impact of the pandemic on both the COVID and Non-COVID claims environment, 3) Assess future and emerging medical malpractice risks, 4) Discuss the top medical office practice risks, 4.) Review case studies involving the top risk issues, and 5) Identify strategies to decrease risks that may lead to malpractice lawsuits.

The conference will take place on September 14th, 2021, at noon, via ZOOM. This activity qualifies for AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ & AOA Category 1-A credit.

If you would like to attend this meeting, please contact CME Coordinator Erin Parker at eparker@cmhshealth.org or 805-948-5638, and an invite with a link to the meeting will be emailed to you.

Quarterly CMHS Medical Staff Meeting

PatientKeeper (PK) Downtime

We are scheduling an upgrade for PK Tuesday, 9/14,/21 from 12:05 pm-6:00 am. PK will be completely unavailable during this time.

We will go from PK version 9.24 to 9.26. This version will allow us to implement workflow for Electronic Prescription of Controlled Substances (EPCS) and resolve issues with eRX that caused us to disable it a few weeks ago. As always, we will post a broadcast the night before, alerting Physicians. Once eRX functions are vetted, we will turn that feature back on and communicate separately.

Community Memorial Healthcare Foundation

You may already be aware that our Community Memorial Hospital has its very own Foundation. The Community Memorial Healthcare Foundation exists solely to support CMH and its greatest needs. Now that the ambitious $25M Capital Campaign to build the new Ocean Tower is complete, our Foundation has shifted its focus to raise funds to cover additional items from CMH’s capital list and “wish list.” You may have seen some of their recent fundraising efforts in Grateful Patient mailings and brochures, and the Employee Giving Campaign fliers and emails. All of these unrestricted funds raised are used to support CMH and what it may need the most.

Earlier this year, the Community Memorial Healthcare Foundation received an unexpected $500,000 grant from the Wood Claeyssens Foundation. Working with Administration to identify some of the current greatest needs of CMH, the following equipment was approved for purchase and disbursement around CMH.

Department                      Medical Equipment Purchased                 Total

CMH Cath Lab                   Sonosite UltraSound System                       $81,663.73

CMH Cath Lab                   LUCAS Chest Compression System            $16,898.70

Medical Education           Labor & Delivery Mannequin                       $65,613.82

Medical Education           Geriatric Patient Mannequin                       $21,808.14

CMH ER                              Portable X-Ray Machine                               $193,669.20

CMH BiPlane                     Stroke & Surgical Technology                     $120,346.41

Total:    $500,000.00

I am proud to share with you that most of this equipment has been purchased and is already in use in the hospital!

Our Heart and Cath Lab received a new ultrasound system that offers the most advanced image clarity when treating and diagnosing patients. They also received a LUCAS Chest Compression System, which simulates CPR, providing uninterrupted and consistent chest compressions on patients experiencing heart issues. Other benefits of the LUCAS system including continuity of treatment from the ambulance into Hospital, automated and consistent treatment (less physical strain on medical staff), and portable, continued treatment if the patient is moved.  These updates mean our award-winning heart program can continue to provide the best possible care to our patients.

For continuing education, two new patient mannequins were purchased for additional training that may eventually become part of a more comprehensive Simulation (Sims) Lab at CMH. The Noelle and Baby mannequin is a complete simulation-based obstetric and neonatal care training unit, and the Geriatric patient mannequin provides specialized training for our older patients. Both these educational purchases let residents and staff practice various medical scenarios prior to working with live patients.

Our busy Emergency Department also received a new Portable X-Ray machine, which means multiple patients can be treated more effectively, and the machine’s position can be easily shifted without having to move ill or injured patients. It also allows for more efficient, clear, and timely results, accessed in real-time, right at the patient bedside. This additional machine will assist countless patients in our Emergency Department receive the best possible treatment while in our care.

The new X-Ray machine is already purchased and in use in the Emergency Department.

Congratulations and thank you to the CMHF Board of Directors and Development Department staff who continue to raise funds for projects like this – and for CMH’s greatest needs.

If you are interested in learning more about the Community Memorial Healthcare Foundation and its work, mission, or impact on our community, or would like to make a donation, please visit www.cmhfventura.org.

Patty Williams, Director of Development

COVID Stats – National & International

British data on Benefits of full vaccination

Benefits of Full Vaccination

Prepublication this week NEJM Israeli Data on Booster showing Enhanced Protection against Delta

CMHS COVID Updates

CMHS Visitor Policy posted at CMHSHealth.org

Link to CMHS Visitor Policy

Vaccines at CMHS for Medical Staff and Hospital Employees Only

COVID-19 Vaccine Appointments

First Dose, Second Dose, and Booster for Immunocompromised Only

 Location:

Midtown Medical Group
2721 E Main St
Ventura, CA, 93003
805 667-2841

Pfizer Clinics:

https://myturn.ca.gov?config=e54e8781-0a97-4827-b79c-45cf333fa3cb

Moderna Clinic

 https://myturn.ca.gov?config=434c2d0a-616d-440d-9f9d-ada748bdf6d0

Monoclonal Antibodies

Monoclonal antibodies provided for eligible patients at CMH ED and OVCH ED:

CMH ED – 805 948-8100

OVCH ED – 805 646-1401

CMHS Weekly Medical Staff Calendar – August 13 – 17

“A man sees in the world what he carries in his heart.”
– Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

Keep the faith,

We will NOT be having a JW Moore presentation this coming Tuesday, September 7^th.

We will resume on September 14^th with Dr. Graham Billingham from one of the leading healthcare malpractice insurance companies, MedPro Group, discussing National Malpractice Claims trends and the effect the Pandemic has had on them. Arlene Luu, also from MedPro Group, will also discuss the top risks of Office Practices.

COVID-19 Vaccine Appointments – Medical Staff and CMHS Employees

First Dose, Second Dose, and Booster for Immunocompromised

 Location:

Midtown Medical Group
2721 E Main St
Ventura, CA, 93003

Pfizer Clinic:

https://myturn.ca.gov?config=9e6cae73-4602-4c82-a3c3-60da2b2cd0ca

Moderna Clinic:

https://myturn.ca.gov?config=08fef1c3-acb7-4b67-a1c6-e8634c0e5c5b

How do I get a copy of my vaccine record?

Visit myvaccinerecord.cdph.ca.gov California’s Digital COVID-19 Vaccine record portal to get a digital copy in minutes.

Find information about COVID-19 vaccines and testing at www.vcrecovers.org

Mindful Meditation Sessions – Wednesdays

Please join us for Mindful Meditation Sessions every Wednesday, 12:30-12:45pm for the next 6 weeks, while on your lunch break.

John Henke LCSW and Janice Aharon-Ezer LMFT from our Behavioral Health Team will be guiding us through 15 minutes of meditation and reflection, as a break from our busy days.

Attend via Microsoft Teams meeting:

Join on your computer or mobile app
Click here to join the meeting

Or call in (audio only)
+1 805-724-0202,,552368431#   United States, Santa Barbara

Phone Conference ID: 552 368 431#

Find a local number | Reset PIN

Kristine Supple PA-C, MPH
Director of Population Health, Ambulatory Medicine

CMH Respiratory Therapist Op-Ed LA Times

Click on the link for the full Op-Ed; On the front lines, here’s what the seven stages of severe COVID-19 look like

COVID Statistics Update (click on graph to enlarge image)

CMHS Weekly Medical Staff Calendar – August 6-  10

“It is not in the stars to hold our destiny but in ourselves.”
– William Shakespeare

Keep the faith,

JW Moore Tuesday, Noon, CME Conference “Antimicrobial Stewardship: A Case-Based Approach with the Spectrum App.”

Kaitlyn Moorehead, Pharm.D, CMHS Pharmacy Clinical Coordinator & Gail Simpson, M.D., CMHS Infectious Disease, will present a lecture on “Antimicrobial Stewardship: A Case-Based Approach with the Spectrum App.”

At the end of the conference, the learner should be able to: 1) Describe factors contributing to imperfect antibiotic use, 2) Download and navigate the Spectrum (Firstline) App, 3) Design an appropriate regimen for Community-Acquired Pneumonia, 4) Select effective therapy for Cellulitis, and 5) De-escalate antimicrobials in intra-abdominal infection.

The conference will take place on August 31st, 2021, at noon, via ZOOM. This activity qualifies for AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ & AOA Category 1-A credit.

If you would like to attend this meeting, please contact CME Coordinator Erin Parker at eparker@cmhshealth.org or 805-948-5638, and an invite with a link to the meeting will be emailed to you.

MSV – LIVE! Season 2, Episode 4 – Dr. Chris Kerrigan, Addiction Medicine

In today’s episode of Medical Staff Voice LIVE, we have an informative discussion about addiction with Dr. Chris Kerrigan, CMHS addiction medicine specialist. Dr. Stan asks Dr. Kerrigan about all the places he’s lived and studied before Ventura County, including Massachusetts, Colorado, Europe, Montana and Nashville! Before his fellowship, Dr. Kerrigan set out to find his own definition of “addiction medicine.” Today, he defines it as the diagnosis & treatment of substance abuse disorders or complications to alcohol and drug use. In his line of work, he helps patients with treating cravings, treating comorbid conditions that can lead to substance abuse, and helping the patient with next steps in the treatment process—such as seeing a psychiatrist, psychologist, or joining support groups.

Click on this link for the YouTube Video Interview

EMPOWER Committee of the CMHS Medical Staff

VCMA COVID & Practice Management UPDATES

1. Subcutaneous Regeneron Therapy available at Primary Medical Group, Lombard Oxnard location (rear building access) – with physician referral only. Referral Criteria and PMG Referral Instructions are attached.  Other service sites are being developed around the county.  MDs, DOs, PAs, NPs and MAs interested in volunteering to assist in expanding clinic times, contact: venturacma21@gmail.com

An extensive article from The New England Journal of Medicine and FDA EUA are also provided for your review.

Mission Statement of VCMA Regn Clinic Committee:

To save lives. To stop the pandemic in Ventura County by utilizing SQ Regen Cov at the earliest opportunity for Covid-19 infected individuals and their household contacts. (In conjunction with vaccine and public health measures)

2. Workplace Vaccination Mandate 8/19/21 VCMA Webinar – if you missed it, or attended and want the presentation slides, email request to kgabler@lightgablerlaw.com
3. CMA’s thoughtful and informational COVID Toolkit for Physician Employers go to https://www.cmadocs.org/covid-19/physician-employers   As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a profound economic impact nationwide, many physicians are facing important questions related to their practices and employment: Returning to the Physical Workplace: Legal parameters and considerations for employers. Documents are free to members (be sure to set-up/use CMA log in) and $2 per page for non-members.

Answers to top 4 questions:

• Employee COVID testing is on employer time (set-up recurring weekly appointment, same day of the week)
• Insurance Companies have stated they are NOT paying for employer required testing (most economical way is test kits at the office), however, test sites are free for uninsured venturarecovers.org
• Current mandate:  As of September 30. 2021 everyone in medical offices & facilities MUST BE FULLY VACCINATED.  Those refusing vaccination (by choice, medical or religious reasons) are to be considered Voluntary Resignations from work positions.
• CMA is no longer shipping State-supplied PPE.  VCMA still has Sanitizer and Med-Lg Gloves available. Call 805-484-6822 to arrange pick-up

4. Payor Contract Analysis: The VCMA encourages physicians to carefully read all contracts as well as proposed contract amendments prior to signing any agreement. To assist physicians with the contract review process, VCMA members have free access to objective written analysis of major health plan contracts. Each analysis is designed to help physicians understand their rights and options when contracting with a third party payor, as well as an understanding of contract provisions that are prohibited by California law.  Review Payor Contract Analysis 
5. CMA Practice Resources (CPR): Email newsletter: distributed monthly, this e-publication is a targeted publication providing essential tips and tools to help physicians and their office staff to improve office efficiency and viability. Subscribe to this resource along with others

As always, go to www.venturarecovers.org for the latest in Vaccine, Testing Sites and COVID numbers.

PDFs referred to in the VCMA Updates:

treatment-covid19-eua-fact-sheet-for-hcp

SQRegnCovPreventCovid19NEJM8-21

REGENERON PATIENT THERAPY CRITERIA

Instructions to a Referring Provider for Monoclonal Antibody Treatment

Dr. Fritz Menninger’s Retirement Award at OVCH last week

CMHS Weekly Medical Staff Calendar – August 30 – September 3

“It’s better to be seen than viewed”
– Dr. Fritz Menninger

Keep the faith,

Reminder for Medical Staff – Model Safe COVID Conduct

It’s more important than ever to set a positive, caring, and respectful example to our nursing, clinical, and physician colleagues, to properly wear our masks, protective goggles/shields in patient contact areas, and to frequently wash your hands. Let’s be supportive and vigilant of ourselves and one another. Together we are stronger and safer!

PatientKeeper (PK) eRX is temporarily Disabled

A few inconsistencies were encountered in PK yesterday.  For safety reasons, PK is disabled while we are correcting the glitch. You will be notified as soon as it is available. Until then, please use paper backup or called-in prescriptions.

Meditech (MT) Downtime Alert

Meditech will be down for 3 hours beginning at 2:30 am on 8/26/21 to allow for an update that is required to remain in compliance with regulatory changes. Please follow downtime procedures.
Other applications will not be down, but they will NOT communicate with MT during the downtime. PK CPOE will be disabled.

JW Moore Tuesday, August 24th, 2021, CME Conference “Pain Management Considerations in the Elderly.”

Michael Bottros, M.D., Clinical Operations & Medical Director of Pain Services, Associate Professor of Anesthesiology, Keck School of Medicine of USC, will present a lecture on “Pain Management Considerations in the Elderly.” At the end of the conference, the learner should be able to: 1) Describe the treatments for facet-mediated arthropathy, 2) Explain the test used to diagnose sacroiliitis, and 3) Describe the treatment options for persistent post-arthroplasty knee pain.

The conference will take place on August 24th, 2021, at noon, via ZOOM. This activity qualifies for AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ & AOA Category 1-A credit.

If you would like to attend this meeting, please contact CME Coordinator Erin Parker at eparker@cmhshealth.org or 805-948-5638, and an invite with a link to the meeting will be emailed to you.

CMHS COVID-19 Updates

1. CMHS Visitation rules – Effective Aug. 11, 2021, visitors at general acute care hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and intermediate care facilities must show proof that they are fully vaccinated or have had a negative COVID-19 test within the past 72 hours.
   Very Limited Exceptions Apply.
   Please click on this link for a more complete Patient Visitation Policy.
2. Monoclonal antibodies can be administered through our Emergency Department (ED). Please call the ED for details on referring patients: 805-948-8100.
3. Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine wins full FDA approval today.

Medical Staff Voice LIVE! Season 2, Episode 3 – Dr. Michael Poon, Urology

It’s time for episode three of our second season of the Medical Staff Voice LIVE! Today, we’re joined by Dr. Michael Poon, urologist with San Buenaventura Urology Center (SBUC). Dr. Poon treats a variety of conditions stemming from urinary complaints, kidney stones, with his expertise in kidney and prostate cancers. Learn why Dr. Poon believes the PSA, or Prostate Specific Antigen, is one of the most misunderstood screenings. Did you know? Dr. Marc Beaghler, fellow SBUC Urologist, was Dr. Poon’s Chief Resident at Loma Linda? Link to YouTube video interview

COVID-19 and Convalescent Plasma and Antibody Therapies: Frequently Asked Questions

Please click on the link for updated data on these therapies: COVID-19 and Convalescent Plasma – Hematology.org

CMHS Drug Shortage Update (click on images to enlarge)

Off-Season Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections and Use of Palivizumab – Public Health Alert!

 Key messages:

• Off-season respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections are increasing in California this summer.
• Consider testing for additional respiratory pathogens besides SARS-CoV-2, including RSV.
• Administer prophylactic palivizumab to high-risk infants and young children per AAP guidance.
• Encourage parents and caregivers to keep young children with acute respiratory illnesses out of childcare, even if they have tested negative for SARS-CoV-2.
• Discourage health care personnel, childcare providers, and staff of long-term care facilities from working while acutely ill, even if they have tested negative for SARS-CoV-2.

Summary 

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the most common cause of bronchiolitis and pneumonia in infants and a cause of severe disease in adults older than age 65 years. Although RSV typically circulates during the winter, RSV infections have been increasing this summer throughout the United States; compared to historical summer levels of <1% of respiratory illness specimens in California testing positive for RSV, 6.3% of specimens were positive during the week ending July 31, 2021 (Figure), a level usually not seen before late November.

Persons with RSV infection typically have fever, cough, wheezing and runny nose. Infants and young children may be irritable, lethargic, feed poorly and have no fever. Consider testing for RSV in patients with respiratory symptoms, especially those who test negative for COVID-19.

Palivizumab prevents severe RSV illness in infants and young children who are at high risk. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has recently published interim guidance for using palivizumab during the current increase in RSV infections to supplement its standard recommendations for prophylaxis. It is unknown how long this increased activity will continue.

As a reminder, persons with acute respiratory symptoms should stay home while ill, especially those who work in health care, childcare, or long-term care.

Third COVID-19 Vaccines for Moderately to Severely Immunocompromised People

Please click on this link to access the updated 3rd vaccine eligibility criteria for immunocompromised individuals: COVID-19 Vaccines for Moderately to Severely Immunocompromised People _ CDC_081621

Digital COVID Vaccine Record

Welcome to the Digital COVID-19 Vaccine Record portal. Just enter a few details below to get a link to a QR code and digital copy of your COVID-19 vaccination record. If you want to share your proof of vaccination, you can use either the electronic version you’ll get from the portal or the card you were given at the time of vaccination.

If you are a parent or guardian and have multiple vaccine records associated with a single cell phone number or email address, enter each digital vaccine record request separately.

The portal provides only a digital copy of your vaccine record. If you have any more questions about your Digital COVID-19 Vaccine Record, visit our FAQ.

Web link: https://myvaccinerecord.cdph.ca.gov/

If you have difficulty accessing your Digital COVID-19 Vaccine Record, please contact Tracey Shoop, Physician Liaison at tshoop@cmhshealth.org.

Depreciating efficacy of COVID Vaccines to Delta

Prior to Delta, mRNA vaccines had well over 90% effectiveness vs infections. With Delta, that has dropped to ~50% in many recent studies.

CMHS Weekly Medical Staff Calendar – August 23 – 27

“Don’t judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant.”
– Robert Louis Stevenson

Keep the faith,

JW Moore Tuesday, Noon, CME Conference “Domestic Violence & Human Trafficking; Caring for Patients in the Healthcare Setting.”

Evelyn Guillen & Jessica Mendoza from Interface Children & Family Services will present a lecture on “Domestic Violence & Human Trafficking; Caring for Patients in the Healthcare Setting.”

At the end of the conference, the learner should be able to: 1) Define human trafficking, 2) Recognize what human trafficking looks like and how to identify victims of human trafficking, 3) Recognize that human trafficking does occur in Ventura County, 4) Learn what to do if encountering a suspected victim of human trafficking, and 5) Learn about resources that are available to victims of human trafficking.

The conference will take place on August 17th, 2021, at noon, via ZOOM. This activity qualifies for AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ & AOA Category 1-A credit.

If you would like to attend this meeting, please contact CME Coordinator Erin Parker at eparker@cmhshealth.org or 805-948-5638, and an invite with a link to the meeting will be emailed to you.

Medical Staff Voice Live: Episode 2, Season 2 – Dr. Shawn Steen, General Surgery/Surgical Oncology

In episode 2 of our second season of Medical Staff Voice LIVE, Dr. Stan is joined by Dr. Shawn Steen, General Surgery/Surgical Oncology and Associate Program Director of the CMHS General Surgery Residency. Originally from Colorado, Dr. Steen finished his undergrad and graduate degrees at the University of Colorado, before completing a residency at Baylor. He discusses his time spent with John Wayne Cancer Institute in southern California, as well as his interests in soft tissue and skin cancer care. When not splitting time between hospitals, Dr. Steen enjoys spending time with his family in Ventura enjoying the ocean, including fishing & surfing! Link to YouTube video interview

Medical Staff Voice Live! – First Season Interviews for those who missed them

Please click on the link below to enjoy the first season interviews with 11 of our physicians and services available at Community Memorial Health System: Medical Staff Voice Live! Youtube Video Interviews

• Dr. Saranya Reghunathan, Otolaryngology
• Dr. Cathy Kim, Functional Medicine
• Dr. Pedro Eva, Psychiatry
• Dr. Jennifer Wan, CardioThoracic Surgery
• Jordan Dennis, RD
• Dr. Chris Johnson, Emergency Medicine
• Dr. Scott Goodfriend, Physician Advisor
• Dr. Arthur Flynn, Plastic Surgery
• Dr. Omid Fatemi, Structural Heart Cardilogist
• Dr. Joseph Eisner, General Surgery
• Dr. Michael Trauner, Dermatologist/MOHS Surgeon

COVID Update (click on the image to enlarge it)

We continue to see our hospitalized patient numbers increase slowly. Vaccinations, masking, and protective eyewear when in patient care areas help prevent the generally milder secondary COVID Delta breakthrough infections in vaccinated individuals. Please maintain continued vigilance and self-care. If you’re not vaccinated, you must test twice weekly at CMHS. All Hospital Health Care Workers are required to be vaccinated by September 30, 2021, California Department of Public Health order.

Ventura County (as of 8/12/21)

“If you want others to be happy, practice compassion. If you want to be happy, practice compassion.”
– Dalai Lama

Keep the faith,

JW Moore Tuesday, Noon, CME Conference “Strategies to Reduce Hospital Readmissions.”

Efren Manjarrez, M.D., SFHM, FACP, Associate Professor of Medicine, Division of Hospital Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of medicine will present a lecture on “Strategies to Reduce Hospital Readmissions.”

At the end of the conference, the learner should be able to 1.) Identify readmissions as a problem, 2.) Identify your patient population at risk for readmissions, and 3.) Implement evidence-based strategies to reduce readmissions and track your data.

The conference will take place on August 10th, 2021, at noon, via ZOOM. This activity qualifies for AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ & AOA Category 1-A credit.

If you would like to attend this meeting, please contact CME Coordinator Erin Parker at eparker@cmhshealth.org or 805-948-5638, and an invite with a link to the meeting will be emailed to you.

Vaccinations required for all Health Care Workers (HCW) – Inpatient and Outpatient

NOW, THEREFORE, I, as State Public Health Officer of the State of California, order:

Medical Staff Voice Live: Episode 1, Season 2 with Dr. Christina Matts, Palliative Care Specialist

We are kicking off season two of the Medical Staff Voice Live series with an introduction to Palliative Care. In this week’s episode, CMHS Chief Medical Officer Dr. Stan Frochtzwajg sits down with Dr. Christina Matts, Palliative Care Specialist at CMHS. Palliative Care provides medical care for people with serious or chronic medical problems. It focuses on providing patients with relief from the symptoms, pain, and stress that accompany a serious illness- regardless of the diagnosis. Dr. Stan asks what differentiates Palliative Care from Hospice care, how to sign up for Palliative Care, and why Dr. Matts made the transition into Palliative Care after 10 years in Emergency Medicine. What makes Palliative Care at CMHS unique, according to Dr. Matts, is the full inter-disciplinary team comprised of doctors, nurses, social workers, and chaplains to help address the stressors for palliative care patients. Stay tuned to find out how Dr. Matts spends her weekends with family! Click on this:  Link to YouTube video interview

Medical Staff Voice Live! – First Season Interviews

Please click on the link below to enjoy the first season interviews with 11 of our physicians and services available at Community Memorial Health System: Medical Staff Voice Live! Youtube Video Interviews

COVID Breakthrough Infections in Vaccinated Health Care Workers – Very important

NEJM paper on breakthrough infections (BTI) post-vaccination in Israeli health care workers: Covid-19 Breakthrough Infections in Vaccinated Health Care Workers (click on the link to download PDF of NEJM article.)

5 key points by Dr. Eric Topol:

1.  Of ~1500 people, 0.4% had BIs, sequenced to be Alpha 85% (this was pre-Delta)
2. All these BTIs were mild (67%) or without symptoms (33%), done due to routine testing. No hospitalizations.
3. 7 of 36 (19% ) of BTIs had “persistent symptoms” > 6 weeks.
4. There were NO secondary attacks, no indication of transmission of BTIs. 
5. The neutralizing antibody levels in the people with BTIs were lower than matched controls, raising the question of the need for a booster dose. Unsettled.

VCMA 8/12 Summer Social Cancelled

In consideration of the current surge of COVID patients in all the local hospitals, the VCMA Board has unanimously decided to postpone all VCMA In-Person events until such time it is deemed safe to meet without concern of COVID transmission.  We do not want to be identified as a Super Spreader Event.  This is to keep everyone safe as possible.

The date of a future event is unknown and unable to estimate.  When this 8/12 event was planned to go forward, the COVID cases were receding, and up to two weeks ago there were no COVID admissions in our hospitals.

Thank you for the great number of RSVP responses received.  Credits to card accounts for guest fees are being processed today.

Let us know if you might be interested in a VCMA Virtual Social Event!

Everyone, please find a way to relax, regenerate and always, stay safe.

– Mary Carr, VCMA Executive Director

COVID Updates (click on image to enlarge)

How are vaccines holding up against Delta? Updated table with latest data, including new J&J trial. Notable is the decline for protection of mRNAs vs infections (still very solid vs hospitalizations and deaths).

The test positivity rate climbing with Delta to 9% but testing is much less than half of the 3rd wave

Part of the reason we have changing messages on COVID is – They keep moving the Finish Line

JW Moore Tuesday, Noon, CME Conference “Geriatric Polypharmacy”

Sonja Rosen, MD, FACP, AGSF, Geriatrician at Cedars-Sinai Health System, will lecture on “Geriatric Polypharmacy.” At the end of the conference, the learner should be able to: 1) Develop drug prescribing and de-prescribing plans of care for older persons, 2) Safely prescribe medications for older persons, and 3) Develop strategies for better medication literacy and adherence

The conference will take place on August 3rd, 2021, at noon, via ZOOM. This activity qualifies for AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ & AOA Category 1-A credit.

If you would like to attend this meeting, please contact CME Coordinator Erin Parker at eparker@cmhshealth.org or 805-948-5638, and an invite with a link to the meeting will be emailed to you.

Lab Update: E-Swab used for aerobic & Anaerobic cultures

The E-Swab is now used for both Aerobic and Anaerobic Cultures.

Click on the links for the electronic copies of the CMHS laboratory order form and swab cheat sheet:

• Culture Swab Cheat Sheet
• Laboratory Order Form for General Supplies

To order any of these supplies, please email: labsupplies@cmhshealth.org

For any questions, contact Megan O’Neill at MONeill@cmhshealth.org or (805) 207-8216.

Ventura County Medical Association Summer Social – RSVP by Monday, August 2nd (click on image to enlarge)

CMHS Drug Shortage Update (click on image to enlarge)

In Memoriam – Dr. Richard James Tushla

It is with sadness that I report the passing of Dr. Tushla on July 24, 2021. He trained at VCMC Family Medicine Program and had a private practice in Santa. Paula with his friend Dr. Stegman and his nephew Dr. Mike Tushla. He will be remembered in great part for his dedication to his patients and his community. “
Click on this Link for his full obituary.

Do Not Let Your Guard Down – Masking, Social Distancing & Handwashing

JW Moore Tuesday, Noon, CME Conference “Tuberculosis 2021.”

Gail Simpson, M.D., Infectious Disease, CMHS, will present a lecture on “Tuberculosis 2021.” At the end of the conference, the learner should be able to: 1) Recognize populations who are likely to have been infected with TB, 2) Explain the use of and interpretation of the PPD/Quantiferon gold test, 3) Explain the use of sputum studies for smears, cultures, GeneXpert DNA probes for specification, interpret communicability, and when to start treatment for active disease, 4) Review new guidelines for LTBI treatment, and 5) Recognize the interaction of the TB organism and the immune response to the germ.

The conference will take place on July 27, 2021, at noon, via ZOOM. This activity qualifies for AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ & AOA Category 1-A credit.

If you would like to attend this meeting, please contact CME Coordinator Erin Parker at eparker@cmhshealth.org or 805-948-5638, and an invite with a link to the meeting will be emailed to you.

MICRA – Attack on Patient Access

No further clarity is needed on the efficacy of being vaccinated

JW Moore Tuesday, Noon, CME Conference “What Now? COVID-19 Update.”

Diane Birnbaumer, M.D., FACEP, Internal Medicine & Emergency Medicine Specialist, UCLA, will present a lecture “What Now? COVID-19 Update.” At the end of the conference, the learner should be able to 1.) Explain the difference between a variant of interest and a variant of concern, 2.) Discuss the current data regarding vaccine efficacy against the current COVID variants, and 3.) Explain the symptoms that have been attributed to long-haul COVID

The conference will take place on July 20, 2021, at noon, via ZOOM. This activity qualifies for AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™ & AOA Category 1-A credit.

If you would like to attend this meeting, please contact CME Coordinator Erin Parker at eparker@cmhshealth.org or 805-948-5638, and an invite with a link to the meeting will be emailed to you.

Beach Day – Sponsored by the Medical Staff EMPOWER Committee

On behalf of the Empower Committee, we would like to invite you to a beach hangout/volleyball game:

• Sunday July 25th, 11:30 am – 2:00 pm
• Where San Pedro Lane ends at Ventura beach (north end of Pierpont).

Please come and hang out at the beach or play some volleyball or take a dip in the ocean! Invite the entire family!

Snacks available will be locally sourced with minimal waste. Please bring your own refillable water container.

Please RSVP  to the Medical Staff Office (805 948-5662) – let us know you are coming so that we can provide enough snacks for everyone

Thank you,
Kala Parker, M.D.

CMHS Medical Staff Covid-19 FAQ’s – July 2021

The CMHS COVID task force released an update to our COVID FAQs last week. Click on the link to see the full update. It is an excellent, concise update and filled with useful info.

Link to CMHS COVID FAQ Update July 2021

Mobile Heartbeat – HIPAA Compliant Communication and Access to Colleagues

Mobile Heartbeat is an app you download onto your cell phone. It allows for quick and easy access and communication to colleagues.  It has a feature that allows you to make yourself unavailable when you’re off duty. The majority of the Medical Staff are using it and find it useful and convenient. It is great for the transition of care handoffs from Hospitalists to outpatient clinic physicians.

The IS Helpdesk: 805 984-5090 can help you acquire the app. For further assistance, call Tracey Shoop, our Physician Liaison, whose contact info is at the bottom of this newsletter.

COVID-19 Delta Variant & Vaccination Update

Vaccination rates seem to make a difference

The 4th Surge, as predicted 2 months ago in a graph posted in the Medical Staff Voice.  The trajectory does not bode well compared to the United Kingdom (we are less vaccinated than the UK).

CMHS Weekly Medical Staff Calendar – July 19 -23