CHI - St. Francis

CHI St. Francis Health has earned The Joint Commission's Gold Seal of Approval for Hospital and Laboratory Accreditation, symbolizing our commitment to our patients and their care. The Joint Commission is the nation's largest and oldest organization dedicated to accrediting and creating standards for the healthcare industry. The accreditation process included unannounced surveys of our hospital and laboratory practices and procedures, including emergency management, the environment of care, infection control, risk reduction, and sta competency. Quality Is an Everyday Occurrence New surveys are required every two to three years for reaccreditation, so maintaining the level of performance necessary to earn the Gold Seal of Approval is an ongoing part of the philosophy of care at CHI St. Francis Health. Seeking accreditation is voluntary, and it illustrates not only quality of care, but also our desire to never stop improving. "We sought accreditation for our hospital and laboratory services because we want to demonstrate our commitment to a culture of patient safety that results in quality outcomes for our patients," says David Nelson, president, CHI St. FrancisHealth. "The Joint Commission survey process is an important tool in our performance improvement activities and provides our patients with the added assurance that the care we provide is among the best available." The Joint Commission is a collaboration between the American College of Surgeons, American Medical Association, American Hospital Association, the American College of Physicians and the American Dental Association. It's time for your annual mammogram. What should you know before your exam? Use these tips from The National Women's Health Information Center to prepare for your mammogram. 1. Schedule smart. Many women experience breast pain or tenderness around their periods. Plan your mammogram for one week after your period. 2. Plan your wardrobe. Wear an outt with a top and bottom. That way, when you undress from the waist up, you can leave your skirt, shorts, or pants on. 3. Come as you are. Using deodorant, perfume, lotion, or powder under your arms or on your breasts can distort the image on the mammogram. Bring hygiene and beauty products with you to use once your mammogram is complete. State-of-the-art digital mammography is offered at CHI St. Francis Health. Appointments are available Monday through Saturday. To schedule your appointment, call 218-643-0238. Going for the Gold 3 Secrets to a Successful Mammogram Fast Facts An American Cancer Society study shows timely mammograms could prevent nearly 30 percent of all breast cancer deaths. The American Cancer Society reports 80 percent callbacks for biopsies are benign, or noncancerous. After skin cancer, breast cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in women. Only lung cancer causes more cancer-related deaths. 2 Highway 75 North and 210 West

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