SCH Growth Series: Part I

As we reflect on our many efforts throughout the past year, it becomes clear that our focus on growth despite the tough economy contributed greatly to our success in the $3 million campaign. This growth agenda will continue to be critical as we begin to see the affects of health care reform on our hospital. In my bi-weekly messages for the next two months, I will share with you various plans the hospital has in place that will allow us to continue to expand and succeed.

I will begin this week with an update on our two most recent technological acquisitions, the daVinci Si HD robotic surgery system and the Fuji FDR AcSelerate X-ray technology.

The da Vinci is the safest, most effective treatment option available to surgical patients. Since January when we launched the use of da Vinci and our Robotic Surgery program at SCH, our surgeons have completed nearly 40 robotic-assisted surgeries – a significant accomplishment. The surgery team has done an exceptional job.

Thus far, SCH surgeons have used the da Vinci to treat various general, gynecological and urological conditions. Within the next several months we expect to begin offering ear, nose and throat as well as cardiology capabilities. We would be one of few hospitals in Chicago providing these specialized services.

These are all great signs that our Robotic Surgery program is headed in the right direction toward increasing patient volumes and improving our reputation as a technologically advanced hospital. I am very thankful and proud of the work our surgeons and Operating Room staff have put into the program and look forward to seeing it continue to grow.

I am also very pleased with the progress of Radiology’s use of the new FDR AcSelerate. In February, SCH was the first hospital in North America to acquire this low-dose X-ray system from Fuji. Since then, our Radiology department has performed more than 100 X-ray exams on the machine. The system provides sharp image quality with very high speed and the lowest possible dose of radiation, meaning improved diagnosis, reduced wait times and increased safety for patients.

Our Radiology department serves as a national model for the implementation of this technology; they have hosted about 10 site visits from other hospitals who are considering purchasing the equipment. This is yet another example of an investment that not only improves the quality of care we offer our patients, but also helps boost patient volumes and improves SCH’s reputation as the leading independent hospital in Chicago.

At every new employee orientation I speak about the importance of each of us embracing the opportunities for growth. In the coming weeks I will announce several new programs and technologies that also contribute to this important vision.

Mark