McKenzie-Willamette Medical Center Masters the Art of Patients
A lot has changed at Springfield’s McKenzie-Willamette Medical Center since welcoming the first patient more than 50 years ago. The hospital’s commitment to excellence remains steady and its continued investment in the latest technology proves McKenzie-Willamette is truly a hospital of the future.
In 2006, the investor-owned acute care medical center became one of 10 hospitals worldwide to install the da Vinci Surgical System. The robotic-assisted system is a revolutionary breakthrough in the surgical field, requiring less pain, less blood loss and shorter recovery times than traditional surgery. That’s because, unlike traditional surgery, robotic-assisted surgery is performed through several small incisions the width of a fingertip.
Seated at a nearby computer console, the surgeon uses hand controls to guide four robotic arms that translate into precise movements of micro-instruments within the operative site. Instruments rotate 360 degrees, allowing the surgeon unparalleled precision and flexibility. Currently, the system is used for hysterectomies, tumor removals, prostate removals and kidney and bladder procedures.
“Patients whose surgeons use the da Vinci robotic system can’t say enough about their successful outcomes,” says McKenzie-Willamette Chief Executive Officer Maurine Cate. “We’re fortunate our surgeons have embraced this new technology to provide an enhanced surgery experience for patients and that our referring physicians encourage patients to investigate a variety of treatment options.”
The 114-bed hospital also houses a successful cardiac program that began with the introduction of a diagnostic cardiac catheterization lab in 2004.
In 2006, the hospital welcomed a dedicated cardiovascular operating room and post-op care unit to perform open-heart surgery and cardiac interventions, such as balloon angioplasty and stents.
Today, a highly trained team of cardiologists and heart surgeons provide one-stop cardiac care at the McKenzie-Willamette Heart Center. The designated center allows patients to receive care from the same highly trained staff from admission to discharge, while on-site rehabilitation and education services prevent patient transfer from room to room and floor to floor. Word of the innovative program is quickly spreading. In 2008, the Heart Center experienced a 60 percent increase in heart surgeries over the preceding year.
McKenzie-Willamette also is active in the community through initiatives like the Healthy Woman Program. The free program began in February 2007 and already is 700 members strong. Women can join online and receive access to monthly events and networking opportunities on health, communication, relationship and life-balance issues designed to enhance their lives. Topics range from stress relief to preparing children to go back to school.
“Recently I enjoyed learning about t’ai chi and trying it out. I also enjoyed the connection with other women in our community,” say Peggy Saleeby, Healthy Woman council member. “Bringing this program to women in our community at no cost is an unexpected and joyful surprise.”
