Children and families can hike, read and have fun outdoors in Lebanon County this summer, through the Get Outdoors (GO)Lebanon!program.

WellSpan Health and Lebanon County Libraries sponsor the annual activity and reading program, which is now in its third year. This year’s theme is “GO and Make Music!” and focuses on musical instruments.

The GO program promotes reading and physical activity through the hobby of letterboxing, in which participants follow written clues to locate hidden items. Instruments – wooden marker posts with a unique etching attached – have been hidden in 15 parks in Lebanon County.

The event gives children a chance to win prizes at the completion of the program.

A program guide, called a “musical score” this year, is available free at all Lebanon County Libraries in Annville, Fredericksburg, Lebanon, Myerstown, Palmyra and Richland.  It contains the clues a family needs to locate each instrument. A separate etching sheet is used to collect a picture of each instrument, by making a rubbing with a crayon or pencil.

The program runs from June 4 to Aug. 13. Participants who locate all 15 posts will end up walking more than 17 miles.

The event includes several special programs, which all offer a chance to find an instrument, do the etching and receive extra chances to win a prize in the contest. They include:

·         Hike to Health, from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, June 16, at the Clarence Schock Memorial Park at Governor Dick, 3282 Pinch Road, Mt. Gretna. This program is sponsored by WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital.

·         Family storytime and hike, 6 p.m. Tuesday, June 19, at the White Swan Park, 6 N. Sheridan Road, Newmanstown. This is hosted by the Richland Community Library.

·         Family storytime and hike, 6 p.m. Tuesday, June 26, at Lebanon Valley College, 101 N. College Ave., Annville. Meet in front of the Edward H. Arnold Sports Center, near the stadium on the north side of campus. This is hosted by the Annville Free Library.

·         Family storytime and hike, 6 p.m. Tuesday, July 10, at South Hills Park, 1100 S. Lincoln Ave., Lebanon. This is hosted by the Lebanon Community Library.

"We hope families enjoy the hunt for instruments, and the time they spend together outdoors walking to them," said Melanie Wells, community wellness coordinator for WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital. "We are happy to partner with the Lebanon County Libraries to bring this program to local residents."

Kids who turn in their etching sheets with at least three completed etchings will receive a small prize and those who complete four etchings will be eligible for a chance to win one of fivegrand prizes, including tickets to Hershey Park in the Dark, tickets to dinner and a show, a ukulele package and more. The program also has a Facebook page, where participants can post photos of their hunts for the posts.

“Our six public libraries are ready to rock during the third year of the GO Lebanon! program,” said Stephanie Williams, District Consultant for the Lebanon County Libraries. “We're continuing to add new features to the program, including the family hikes in June and July. Come rock and roll with us in our parks!"

            The GO! summer activity program was introduced in York in 2008 as a brainchild of the Healthy York County Coalition’s Healthy Lifestyles Task Force. The task force was looking for a way to battle the 35 percent child obesity rate in Pennsylvania, and letterboxing seemed like a fun way to get children moving. The program has since expanded to Adams, Lancaster and Lebanon counties.

Last year, almost 400 children participated in the GO Lebanon! program, walking more than 4,000 miles.

The program is funded through WellSpan’s Community Partnership Grant Program. These grants are awarded to nonprofit organizations that improve the health of the communities and people WellSpan serves. Last year, WellSpan awarded more than $335,000 in grants to local community organizations.

For more information about the GO Lebanon! program, visit www.golebcounty.org. For more information on WellSpan's Community Partnership Grants and other ways in which WellSpan promotes healthy communities, visit www.WellSpan.org/Neighbors.

Summit Health and WellSpan Health officials today announced the signing of an affiliation agreement that will enable Summit Health to join WellSpan Health’s regional nonprofit health system while enhancing community-based health care across Central Pennsylvania and within Franklin County and its surrounding communities.

In early April, leaders from both organizations announced they had signed a Memorandum of Understanding, as they began the process to pursue an affiliation. Following a phase of due diligence, the respective volunteer boards of Summit Health and WellSpan Health each approved the definitive affiliation agreement today.

The agreement will be submitted to state and regulatory agencies for review – a process that is expected to take a few months to complete.

“This agreement supports our mission, our employees and our long-term goals to continue to improve the health of our community,” explained Summit Health President and CEO Pat O’Donnell. “The best position for Summit Health’s future is a strong partner, and that partner is WellSpan Health. After a thorough evaluation, it has become clear that WellSpan Health is the right partner to carry out our vision of local comprehensive care, inspiring hope for a healthier life.”

WellSpan Health President and CEO Kevin H. Mosser, M.D., noted that the two organizations share a vision of transforming health care by improving health outcomes and the patient experience, while managing costs.

“Summit and WellSpan have been working together toward that shared vision for years, collaborating on a number of clinical initiatives in Franklin County,” Mosser said. “This affiliation would bring together the talents of the leaders and clinicians of both organizations – all aimed at improving health across the region and enhancing the already-strong health care system locally in Franklin County and the surrounding area.”

Among the areas where the two organizations already collaborate are: a regional reference laboratory and a behavioral health managed care organization, as well as radiation oncology, neurology, tele-stroke and perinatology.

The affiliation agreement between Summit Health and WellSpan Health supports the following goals:

• Strengthen a model of care that is based on an individual’s relationship with a primary care physician and coordinates all the care an individual requires across the lifespan.
• Provide an opportunity to share best practices in quality improvement, care redesign, chronic disease management and patient experience.
• Build upon Summit Health’s strong reputation as a provider of high-quality, local clinical care and a trusted nonprofit community partner.
• Train and recruit more physicians, advanced practice clinicians, nurses and other essential care providers to Franklin County and surrounding communities, in order to address a projected shortage of physicians and health care professionals.
• Invest in new services, facilities and technology for the long-term health of residents in Franklin County and surrounding communities.
• Support Summit Health’s passionate commitment to the physical and economic health of Franklin County and surrounding communities.
• Provide enhanced opportunities for effective population health management and value-based contracting to meet the needs of patients and payors.

“We look forward to our future with WellSpan Health,” O’Donnell said. “I want to emphasize to our community members, to our patients, to our neighbors that when they walk through our doors, we promise hope. That will not change. We are here for our community. This decision allows us to continue that mission.”

For more information on the pending affiliation, visit www.SummitHealth.org/Affiliation and www.WellSpan.org/Affiliation.

About Summit Health

Summit Health is a nonprofit health system that is dedicated to building a healthier community. As Franklin County's leading healthcare provider, Summit Health operates two award-winning hospitals in Chambersburg and Waynesboro, 33 outpatient specialty and primary-care practices throughout Franklin County, lab and imaging services, a fitness center, and two walk-in care centers. Visit SummitHealth.org.

About WellSpan Health

WellSpan Health is an integrated health system that serves the communities of central Pennsylvania and northern Maryland. The organization is comprised of a multispecialty medical group of more than 1,200 physicians and advanced practice clinicians, a regional behavioral health organization, a home care organization, six respected hospitals, more than 15,000 employees, and more than 140 patient care locations. WellSpan is a charitable, mission-driven organization, committed to exceptional care for all, lifelong wellness and healthy communities. Visit WellSpan.org.

WellSpan Health has welcomed four physicians to York County, in the areas of rheumatology, internal medicine, orthopedics and maternal-fetal medicine.

The physicians are: 

Myo-Pale' Aye, M.D., who joined WellSpan Rheumatology in York. Aye has a medical degree from American University of the Caribbean. She served a residency at Staten Island Hospital and a fellowship at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Aye is board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine.

Marissa Chesney, M.D., who joined WellSpan Internal Medicine – Red Lion. Chesney has a medical degree from Saba University School of Medicine. She served a residency at Louisiana State University Hospital. Chesney is board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine.

Pierre-Jean Lattanzio, M.D., who joined WellSpan Orthopedics in York and WellSpan Sports Medicine. Lattanzio has a medical degree from University of Ottawa School of Medicine. He served a residency at University of Ottawa and fellowships at Guy's Hospital, University of Western Ontario and University of Toronto. Lattanzio is board-certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery.

Shobha Mehta, M.D., who joined WellSpan Maternal-Fetal Medicine in York. Mehta has a medical degree from University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. She served a residency and fellowship at Wayne State University. Mehta is board-certified by the American Board of Obstetrics & Gynecology in both obstetrics and gynecology and maternal and fetal medicine.

About WellSpan Health
WellSpan Health is an integrated health system that serves the communities of central Pennsylvania and northern Maryland. The organization is comprised of a multispecialty medical group of more than 1,200 physicians and advanced practice clinicians, a regional behavioral health organization, a home care organization, six respected hospitals, more than 15,000 employees, and more than 140 patient care locations. WellSpan is a charitable, mission-driven organization, committed to exceptional care for all, lifelong wellness and healthy communities.

WellSpan Health has opened a new primary care practice at 720 Norman Drive in Lebanon.

WellSpan Family Medicine – Norman Drive is offering services to treat patients from babies to adults. Its services include newborn visits and well-baby care, immunizations, adolescent exams, physical exams, illness and injury care, chronic illness management, women’s health and geriatrics.

“This practice helps to meet the need for additional primary care practitioners in Lebanon County,” said Kathy Martin, administrator for the WellSpan Medical Group in Lebanon. “Local residents can get a wide variety of their medical needs addressed in a convenient location, which offers evening hours twice a week.”

William “Tom” Merchant, D.O., and Denise Centini, physician’s assistant, offer care at the new practice, joined by a clinical nurse coordinator and support staff. The practice includes 12 exam rooms and is near multiple WellSpan specialists and outpatient services, such as imaging, lab and outpatient rehabilitation.

The practice, at the corner of Norman Drive and Cornwall Road, is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays, and from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. The telephone number is 717-639-3230.

About WellSpan Health

WellSpan Health is an integrated health system that serves the communities of central Pennsylvania and northern Maryland. The organization is comprised of a multispecialty medical group of more than 1,200 physicians and advanced practice clinicians, a regional behavioral health organization, a home care organization, six respected hospitals, more than 15,000 employees, and more than 130 patient care locations. WellSpan is a charitable, mission-driven organization, committed to exceptional care.

The new site expands patient services in a state-of-the-art facility

WellSpan today announced the opening of a new physical rehabilitation location in Hanover, with expanded patient services.

The new WellSpan Rehabilitation site – located at 1000 Carlisle St. –  offers physical therapy and athletic training in a caring environment with advanced equipment.

In addition to those services, staff at the more than 5,500-square-foot location provide what are referred to as advanced-level functional capacity assessments. WellSpan has invested in two state-of-the-art physical rehabilitation machines to assist care teams in the evaluation of a patient’s ability to perform specific movements. The technology assists with various movement tests associated with workplace and other daily activities, and are commonly used to assess patients prior to their return to work following a medical procedure or injury.

“Our new WellSpan Rehabilitation location reflects our commitment to providing a full array of services in the Hanover community,” said Vicky Diamond, vice president of ancillary services, WellSpan Health “For some rehabilitation patients, a long journey to recovery awaits them. Our team is here to join them on that journey and celebrate every milestone along the way, in a caring environment close to home.”

The new rehabilitation location is WellSpan’s latest investment in the Hanover community.

WellSpan Rehabilitation at Hanover’s Blooming Grove Road location is currently closed for renovations and is slated to reopen late this year. WellSpan Urgent Orthopedics – Hanover, also housed at the Blooming Grove Road location, is currently undergoing a renovation and expansion project, but will remain open during the project along with its neighbor, WellSpan Orthopedics.

When complete, the Blooming Grove Road location will be comprised of WellSpan Orthopedics, WellSpan Rehabilitation and WellSpan Urgent Orthopedics – Hanover. WellSpan Rehabilitation on Carlisle Street will remain open as a second location for the service in the Hanover area.

For more information about WellSpan Rehabilitation in Hanover, visit www.WellSpan.org/Rehab.

For more information about WellSpan Rehabilitation, visit www.WellSpan.org/Rehab.

About WellSpan Health
WellSpan Health is an integrated health system that serves the communities of central Pennsylvania and northern Maryland. The organization is comprised of a multispecialty medical group of more than 1,200 physicians and advanced practice clinicians, a regional behavioral health organization, a home care organization, six respected hospitals, more than 15,000 employees, and more than 140 patient care locations. WellSpan is a charitable, mission-driven organization, committed to exceptional care for all, lifelong wellness and healthy communities.

A state-of-the-art da Vinci robotic surgery system will soon go into use at WellSpan Ephrata Community Hospital for a variety of surgical procedures.

WellSpan Ephrata Community Hospital today announced that it will soon offer the latest techniques in minimally invasive, robotic-assisted surgery.

The hospital recently installed its first da Vinci robotic surgery system, allowing a surgeon to perform advanced surgical procedures via a few small incisions. These incisions are about the size of a dime, and usually can be covered with a small dressing about the size of a Band-Aid after surgery.

WellSpan surgeons will begin using the new system later this summer. Among the surgical procedures that will be performed with the da Vinci system are hernia repairs, gallbladder surgery and gynecological surgery, such as hysterectomies, ovarian surgeries and uterine surgeries.

According to clinical studies, robotic-assisted surgery offers numerous benefits including less blood loss, fewer complications, shorter hospital stays, smaller incisions, and a faster recovery and return to daily life, as compared to open surgery.

“This is another great example of how we bring great technology to our patients, so they can get the best care, close to home,” said Carrie Willetts, senior vice president of WellSpan Health and president of WellSpan Ephrata Community Hospital.

During robotic-assisted surgery, the surgeon sits at a specially designed console, positioned in the operating room near the patient, performing the surgery by manipulating robotic instruments.

One instrument holds a lighted endoscopic camera that provides the surgeon with a three-dimensional, high-definition image of the surgical field inside the patient’s body. The entire surgical team can see the field via a large viewing monitor. The other robotic arms hold instruments, which the surgeon manipulates via controls at the console. The controls precisely translate the surgeon’s hand movements.

“The arms provide a range of movement that is even greater than the human wrist,” said Sonia Shah, M.D., of WellSpan OB/GYN. “The da Vinci system enables us to operate with enhanced vision, precision and control.”

In addition to Shah, other surgeons who will use the da Vinci system include Matthew Souder, M.D., of WellSpan Surgical Specialists, and Heather Sholtis, D.O., of WellSpan OB/GYN.

About WellSpan Health

WellSpan Health is an integrated health system that serves the communities of central Pennsylvania and northern Maryland. The organization is comprised of a multispecialty medical group of more than 1,200 physicians and advanced practice clinicians, a home care organization, six respected hospitals, more than 15,000 employees, and 140 patient care locations. WellSpan is a charitable, mission-driven organization, committed to exceptional care for all, lifelong wellness and healthy communities.

Pictured are William Nicholson, M.D. (green surgical gown), and James Harvey, M.D. (far left), preparing for an interventional cardiology procedure at WellSpan York Hospital that was broadcast live to an international conference of cardiovascular specialists assembled in Denver, Colo.

WellSpan York Hospital is one of just five U.S. sites featured at Denver cardiovascular conference

Eyes from around the world were on WellSpan York Hospital this afternoon, as two WellSpan interventional cardiologists successfully completed two complex, minimally invasive procedures during a live broadcast to an international conference of cardiovascular specialists.

William Nicholson, M.D., and James Harvey, M.D., both of WellSpan Cardiology, performed the two cases. Both procedures were live-streamed and broadcast to the Cardiovascular Innovations 2018 conference, held in Denver, Colo.

WellSpan York Hospital was one of only five hospitals in the nation scheduled to be featured as a live case site, with hospitals from as far away as France and Italy also broadcasting cases to the three-day conference.

“This is another example of WellSpan staying on the cutting-edge of advancements in procedures, technology and education in the field of interventional cardiology,” Nicholson said. “WellSpan York Hospital is on the map for advanced cardiovascular care, and we’re internationally recognized for our interventional cardiology program. People around the world want to see the great things we are doing here on a daily basis.”

Nicholson and Harvey performed two procedures simultaneously that were broadcast live to the conference attendees. One complex procedure involved a coronary artery revascularization technique Nicholson has been touted as first in the country to perform, which involves cauterizing through a blockage in a chronic total occlusions (CTO), or completely blocked artery. The second procedure included the placement of a stent and required the use of an advanced device to assist the patient’s heart during the procedure.

Both minimally-invasive procedures were performed on patients who suffer from complex coronary artery disease. The expertise of Nicholson and Harvey in percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), also known as stenting, played a major role in WellSpan York Hospital’s selection as a conference broadcast site.

“We’re honored to showcase the outstanding expertise of our interventional cardiology team as they provide one of WellSpan York Hospital’s signature services,” said Keith Noll, senior vice president, WellSpan Health and president, WellSpan York Hospital. “Their ability to produce excellent outcomes – even with the most challenging cases – is a testament to their skill, professionalism and patient-centered approach. This great work is being done every day at WellSpan York Hospital, so our patients can receive this internationally-recognized care close to home.”

The Cardiovascular Innovations conference is touted as “a world-class meeting focused on state-of-the-art therapy for peripheral, coronary, and structural heart disease” with “live case transmissions by the world’s leading operators in the United States and Europe.” The focus of the conference is innovative health care solutions for patients.

For more information on WellSpan Heart and Vascular services, visit www.WellSpan.org/Heart.

About WellSpan Health

WellSpan Health is an integrated health system that serves the communities of central Pennsylvania and northern Maryland. The organization is comprised of a multispecialty medical group of more than 1,200 physicians and advanced practice clinicians, a regional behavioral health organization, a home care organization, six respected hospitals, more than 15,000 employees, and more than 140 patient care locations. WellSpan is a charitable, mission-driven organization, committed to exceptional care for all, lifelong wellness and healthy communities.

Mobile app service available for low-risk pregnancies at three York County practices

WellSpan Health is now offering remote prenatal check-ups to expectant mothers with low-risk pregnancies at three WellSpan OB/GYN practices in York County.

The new program equips patients with a mobile app and wireless blood pressure cuff, allowing expectant mothers to securely send blood pressure readings and other medical information, such as weight, to their WellSpan OB/GYN care provider.

Patients at WellSpan OB/GYN on Market Street in York, WellSpan OB/GYN on Queen Street in York and WellSpan OB/GYN on Wolfe Road in New Freedom now have access to remote prenatal monitoring. The health system plans to expand the service to patients at other WellSpan OB/GYN practices in the region in the coming months.

“We know a lot of expectant moms are on the go, and finding time for the recommended 14 prenatal checkups can be challenge,” said Megan Lecas, vice president of women and children services at WellSpan Health. “We are proud to offer this service to our patients with low-risk pregnancies, allowing soon-to-be moms and their health care providers to track their progress in a safe and convenient way that can also decrease the number of office visits needed.”

Remote prenatal check-ups are the newest offering through the Babyscripts™ app.

Last month, WellSpan announced that the app is available to pregnant patients in WellSpan OB/GYN practices across the region to help expectant mothers more easily follow their care plan and access customizable resources and educational content during their pregnancy, including access their prenatal health care professional’s care plan though simple, weekly tasks and tracking.

For more on maternity care at WellSpan, visit www.WellSpan.org/Maternity. 
 
About WellSpan Health
WellSpan Health is an integrated health system that serves the communities of central Pennsylvania and northern Maryland. The organization is comprised of a multispecialty medical group of more than 1,200 physicians and advanced practice clinicians, a regional behavioral health organization, a home care organization, six respected hospitals, more than 15,000 employees, and more than 140 patient care locations. WellSpan is a charitable, mission-driven organization, committed to exceptional care for all, lifelong wellness and healthy communities.

About Babyscripts
Babyscripts™ is a new model for prenatal care that is transforming the way expectant mothers use technology to work with their OBGYN practice. It’s the first mobile, clinical solution to provide remote monitoring of an obstetrician’s patient population while directly improving patient satisfaction and practice reimbursement.

Full range of health services to be offered at new, joint Helen Drive location

Women’s Health Center of Lebanon has moved to a new office, where it will be joined by two new WellSpan Health specialty women’s practices, as both organizations collaborate to offer comprehensive care for women of all ages in Lebanon County.

The Women’s Health new office, at 845 Helen Drive, Lebanon, features a dozen providers, including three new physicians.

WellSpan is leasing space in the new building for two new specialty women’s health practices. WellSpan Maternal Fetal Medicine and WellSpan Gynecologic Oncology will open to new patients Monday, Aug. 13.

Women’s Health Center has moved from its office at 300 Willow Street, in the lower level of the WellSpan Dixon Foundation Health Center. With the move to Helen Drive, it doubled its office space, to 18,000 square feet.

The new office features 18 exam rooms, a larger parking lot and easier accessibility. It offers a full range of services for women of all ages, including ultrasound.

The Helen Drive building also will house WellSpan Maternal-Fetal Medicine, which will provide care for women experiencing high-risk pregnancies, and WellSpan Gynecologic Oncology, which will provide evaluation, treatment and surgery for women with high-risk gynecologic problems and cancers. Physicians from the practices will be at the location on a part-time basis.

“WellSpan wants to provide the best care for our patients, close to their homes. We are expanding women’s services in the Lebanon community, to offer access to specialty care in a convenient location,” said Tom Harlow, senior vice president for WellSpan Health and president of WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital.

Local women will benefit from having comprehensive health services under one roof, said Trudi Noppenberger, Women’s Health Center practice administrator.

“It’s a one-stop shop,” Noppenberger said. “Patients can see the specialists in the same building, and there is the potential for immediate appointments if there is an urgency. Having that availability will help the community a lot.”

The three new physicians at Women’s Health Center are Erum Azhar, MD; Kelli Braightmeyer, MD; and Matthew Keller, MD. Azhar is a graduate of The Aga Khan University in Pakistan and did her residency at Maimonides Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY. Braightmeyer is a graduate of the Drexel University College of Medicine and did her residency at the Drexel University College of Medicine/Hahnemann University Hospital in Philadelphia. Keller is a graduate of SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY., and did his residency there and at WellSpan York Hospital.

With the move and additional practitioners, Women’s Health is offering expanded hours at Helen Drive: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays; 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesdays; and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays. The office also will offer more same-day appointments on Mondays and Fridays. The Helen Drive location is on the route of Lebanon Transit buses. The practice can be reached at 717-273-8835.

WellSpan Maternal-Fetal Medicine and WellSpan Gynecologic Oncology can be reached at 866-244-3492.

About Women’s Health Center of Lebanon County

The Women’s Health Center of Lebanon has been serving Central Pennsylvania for over 40 years. Its board-certified physicians and nurse practitioners offer a full range of state-of-the-art OB/GYN services, including advanced laparoscopic and robotic surgery. It has locations in Lebanon and Palmyra. Its mission is to deliver the highest quality obstetrics and gynecology care resulting in the best quality outcomes.

About WellSpan Health

WellSpan Health is an integrated health system that serves the communities of central Pennsylvania and northern Maryland. The organization is comprised of a multispecialty medical group of more than 1,200 physicians and advanced practice clinicians, a home care organization, six respected hospitals, more than 15,000 employees, and 140 patient care locations. WellSpan is a charitable, mission-driven organization, committed to exceptional care for all, lifelong wellness and healthy communities.

WellSpan leaders and staff were joined by local, county and state leaders to cut the ribbon for WellSpan on Market. Front row, from left: Keith Noll, senior vice president, WellSpan Health and president, WellSpan York Hospital; Susan Byrnes, president commissioner, York County; Pennsylvania State Representative Kristin Phillips-Hill; Steven Hovis, chairman, WellSpan Health Board of Directors; Doug Hoke, vice president commissioner, York County. Second row, from left: Kevin Schreiber, president and CEO, York County Economic Alliance; Tina Stover, administrative director of laboratory services, WellSpan; Vicky Diamond, vice president of ancillary services, WellSpan; Silas Chamberlin, CEO, Downtown Inc; Michael Helfrich, mayor, City of York; Josh Hankey, president and CEO, Royal Square Development and Construction; Collin Holder, executive director, The Parliament Arts Organization.

‘WellSpan on Market’ will offer outpatient lab services, community hub for education and health

WellSpan Health leaders and staff joined with local community leaders today for a ribbon-cutting ceremony to commemorate the opening of WellSpan on Market – the health system’s new location in historic downtown York.

Located in the newly renovated, historic F.W. Woolworth Department Store Building at 46 W. Market St., WellSpan on Market will offer convenient access to outpatient laboratory testing services to patients, including blood and urine specimen collection and glucose tolerance testing. The 2,910 square-foot space will also include a community “Meeting Place,” which will serve as a downtown hub for health screening events, health talks and other health and wellness resources.

“This location is another example of WellSpan’s commitment to those who live, work and play in the City of York, and it will be a great addition to the bustling downtown business district,” said Vicky Diamond, vice president of ancillary services for WellSpan. “We’re part of York. Our patients are our friends and neighbors. And making it as easy as possible for our neighbors to get the health services they need is something we’re passionate about.”

The historic location in the Woolworth Building was also important to the health system when selecting a site for the new lab services office, according to Keith Noll, senior vice president, WellSpan Health and president, WellSpan York Hospital.

“We’re proud to help breathe new life into this beautiful community landmark,” Noll said. “WellSpan on Market is part of our ongoing investment in the City of York and promoting a healthy, vibrant community for those who live and work here.”

In a nod to the building’s rich history, WellSpan on Market will feature vintage photos of the former F.W. Woolworth Department Store. In addition, WellSpan teamed up with York-based The Parliament Arts Organization to showcase original work by a local artist, which is displayed in the large storefront window of the facility.

WellSpan on Market will officially open to patients Monday, Aug. 6.

Open House to be held during First Friday

Members of the public are invited to get a sneak peek at WellSpan on Market during an open house event at First Friday tomorrow, Aug. 3. The public open house will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. and will feature tours, activities, giveaways and refreshments. WellSpan is the presenting sponsor of Downtown Inc’s First Fridays.

About WellSpan Health

WellSpan Health is an integrated health system that serves the communities of central Pennsylvania and northern Maryland. The organization is comprised of a multispecialty medical group of more than 1,200 physicians and advanced practice clinicians, a regional behavioral health organization, a home care organization, six respected hospitals, more than 15,000 employees, and more than 140 patient care locations. WellSpan is a charitable, mission-driven organization, committed to exceptional care for all, lifelong wellness and healthy communities.

American Heart Association/American Stroke Association recognizes four WellSpan Hospitals with annual Get With The Guidelines awards

WellSpan Health's acute-care community hospitals recently received a combined total of nine American Heart Association/American Stroke Association Get With The Guidelines® (GWTG) awards. The awards recognize the hospitals’ achievements in stroke and heart-related care.

“These awards are in recognition of the outstanding work our physicians and care teams do, day in and day out,” said Tom McGann, M.D., executive vice president for clinical practice at WellSpan Health. “Whether you’re in York or Ephrata, Gettysburg or Lebanon – our patients have access to advanced, comprehensive and integrated care for their heart and stroke needs, right here in their community.”

Get With The Guidelines offers quality-improvement measures, discharge protocols, standing orders and other measurement tools that make it easier to follow treatment guidelines that can help save lives and ultimately reduce overall health care costs by lowering readmission rates for patients with stroke and heart-related needs.

The nine Get With the Guidelines awards were received by the following hospitals:

WellSpan York Hospital

• Get With The Guidelines - Stroke Gold Plus Quality Achievement award and recognized on the Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite
• Get With The Guidelines - Heart Failure Gold Plus Quality Achievement award
• Get With The Guidelines - Resuscitation Gold Quality Achievement award

WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital

• Get With The Guidelines - Heart Failure Gold Plus Quality Achievement award
• Get With The Guidelines - Stroke Silver Plus Quality Achievement award and recognized on the Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite Plus

WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital

• Get With The Guidelines - Stroke Gold Plus Quality Achievement award
• Get With The Guidelines - Heart Failure Gold Plus Quality Achievement award and recognized on the Heart Failure Honor Roll

WellSpan Ephrata Community Hospital

• Get With The Guidelines - Stroke Gold Plus Quality Achievement award and recognized on the Target: Stroke Honor Roll
• Get With The Guidelines - Heart Failure Gold Plus Quality Achievement award

“We are pleased to recognize WellSpan Health for their commitment to heart failure and stroke care,” said Eric E. Smith, M.D., national chairman of the Get With The Guidelines Steering Committee and an associate professor of neurology at the University of Calgary in Alberta, Canada. “Research has shown that hospitals adhering to clinical measures through the Get With The Guidelines quality improvement initiative can often see fewer readmissions and lower mortality rates.”

For more about WellSpan Heart and Vascular care, visit www.WellSpan.org/Heart.

For more about WellSpan stroke care, visit www.WellSpan.org/Stroke.

About Get With The Guidelines
Get With The Guidelines® is the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s hospital-based quality improvement program that provides hospitals with the latest research-based guidelines. Developed with the goal of saving lives and hastening recovery, Get With The Guidelines has touched the lives of more than 6 million patients since 2001. For more information, heart.org.

About WellSpan Health
WellSpan Health is an integrated health system that serves the communities of central Pennsylvania and northern Maryland. The organization is comprised of a multispecialty medical group of more than 1,200 physicians and advanced practice clinicians, a regional behavioral health organization, a home care organization, six respected hospitals, more than 15,000 employees, and more than 140 patient care locations. WellSpan is a charitable, mission-driven organization, committed to exceptional care for all, lifelong wellness and healthy communities.

WellSpan has welcomed 12 physicians in the areas of gastroenterology, pediatrics, cardiology, family medicine, orthopedics, pulmonary and sleep medicine, gynecologic oncology, plastic and reconstructive surgery, obstetrics and gynecology.

The physicians are: 

Dr. Anaka

Ikenna Anaka, M.D., WellSpan Gastroenterology in Hanover and York.

He served a residency and fellowship at West Virginia University Hospital.

Anaka is board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine.

Dr. Bean

Theodore Bean II, M.D., WellSpan Pediatric Medicine – South George Street and WellSpan Pediatric Medicine – Red Lion.

He served a residency at Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center.

Dr. Benton

Stewart Benton Jr, M.D.,WellSpan Cardiology in York.

Benton has a medical degree from Medical University of South Carolina. He served a residency at Vanderbilt University Hospital and fellowships at Emory University Hospital and Medical University of South Carolina College of Medicine.

Benton is board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Disease.

Dr. Hoadley

Michelle Hoadley, D.O., WellSpan Family Medicine – Bannister Street.

Hoadley has a medical degree from William Carey University.

She served a residency at LewisGale Hospital Montgomery.

Dr. Hoque

Rafaz Hoque, M.D., WellSpan Gastroenterology in Hanover and York.

Hoque has a medical degree from Cornell University Medical College.

He served a residency at Bellevue Hospital Center and a fellowship at Yale School of Medicine. Hoque is board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine.

Dr. Inners

Lauren Inners, D.O., WellSpan Orthopedics in Hanover.

Inners has a medical degree from Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine.

She served a residency at Abington Memorial Hospital and a fellowship at Lehigh Valley Health Network. Inners is board-certified by the American Board of Family Medicine.

Dr. Joshi

Madan Joshi, M.D., WellSpan Pulmonary & Sleep Medicine in York.

Joshi has a medical degree from BP Koirala Institute in Nepal.

He served a residency at SUNY Health Science Center at Syracuse and a fellowship at Cleveland Clinic Foundation. Joshi is board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in Pulmonary Disease and Critical Care Medicine.

Dr. Lim

Eav Lim, D.O., who WellSpan Gynecologic Oncology in York and Ephrata.

Lim has a medical degree from New York College of Osteopathic Medicine.

He served a fellowship at WellSpan York Hospital. Lim is board-certified by the American Board of Osteopathic Obstetrics & Gynecology.

Dr. Naram

Aparajit Naram, M.D., WellSpan Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery in York.

Naram has a medical degree from Albany Medical College.

He served a residency at University of Massachusetts Medical School and a fellowship at UT Southwestern Medical Center.

Dr. Patel

Milan Patel, M.D., WellSpan Pulmonary & Sleep Medicine in York.

Patel has a medical degree from B J Medical College in India.

He served a residency at The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education and a fellowship at SUNY Upstate University. Patel is board-certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine in Internal Medicine and Pulmonary Disease.

Dr. Paulius

Judithe Paulius, D.O., WellSpan Family Medicine – Wheatlyn.

Paulius has a medical degree from Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine.

She served a residency at Summa Health System. Paulius is board-certified by the American Board of Osteopathic Family Physicians.

Dr. Williams

Mark Williams, M.D., WellSpan OB/GYN in York.

Williams has a medical degree from Howard University College of Medicine.

He served a residency at Reading Hospital - Tower Health.

About WellSpan Health
WellSpan Health is an integrated health system that serves the communities of central Pennsylvania and northern Maryland. The organization is comprised of a multispecialty medical group of more than 1,200 physicians and advanced practice clinicians, a regional behavioral health organization, a home care organization, six respected hospitals, more than 15,000 employees, and more than 140 patient care locations. WellSpan is a charitable, mission-driven organization, committed to exceptional care for all, lifelong wellness and healthy communities.

WellSpan York Hospital is the only hospital in the region to attain ELSO’s gold status for excellence in life support

WellSpan York Hospital has received international recognition for its life-saving treatment of adult patients with acute heart or lung failure.

The hospital has received the “Gold Level ELSO Award for Excellence in Life Support” by Extracorporeal Life Support Organization (ELSO), an international nonprofit health care consortium. WellSpan York Hospital is the only hospital in southcentral Pennsylvania – and one of only a handful in the state – to receive the distinction.

The Excellence in Life Support Award recognizes those centers that demonstrate an exceptional commitment to evidence-based processes and quality measures, staff training and continuing education, patient satisfaction and ongoing clinical care.

“This is a great honor for our patients, their families and our staff,” said Keith Noll, senior vice president, WellSpan Health and president, WellSpan York Hospital. “This designation validates our ongoing commitment to providing exceptional, life-saving cardiac and pulmonary care to our patients and our community. The expert physicians and staff of our ECMO program truly save lives, and we are very proud of our team’s work each and every day.”

To receive the designation, WellSpan York Hospital demonstrated extraordinary achievement in:

• Excellence in promoting the mission, activities, and vision of ELSO.
• Excellence in patient care by using the highest quality measures, processes, and structures based upon evidence.
• Excellence in training, education, collaboration, and communication supporting ELSO guidelines that contributes to a healing environment for families, patients and staff.

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, or ECMO, is a short-term, lifesaving technique used for patients suffering from acute respiratory and/or cardiac failure, replacing the natural function of the heart and/or lungs. This therapy allows those organs to recover and buy valuable time for diagnosis and treatment of underlying conditions.

For more information about WellSpan York Hospital, visit WellSpan.org/YorkHospital.

About Extracorporeal Life Support Organization (ELSO)

The Extracorporeal Life Support Organization (ELSO) is an international non-profit consortium of health care centers and individuals who are dedicated to the development, evaluation and improvement of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and other innovative therapies for support of failing organ systems in the neonate, child and adult. ELSO is made up of a broad multidisciplinary collaboration of physicians, nurses, perfusionists, respiratory therapists, technicians, researchers, and industry experts. Global chapters of ELSO provide education and expertise in ECMO delivery around the world.

About WellSpan Health

WellSpan Health is an integrated health system that serves the communities of central Pennsylvania and northern Maryland. The organization is comprised of a multispecialty medical group of more than 1,200 physicians and advanced practice clinicians, a regional behavioral health organization, a home care organization, six respected hospitals, more than 15,000 employees, and more than 140 patient care locations. WellSpan is a charitable, mission-driven organization, committed to exceptional care for all, lifelong wellness and healthy communities.

Richard Howard, M.D., interventional cardiologist, WellSpan Cardiology

People in Adams County now have access to a new interventional cardiologist and advanced specialty heart care close to home.

WellSpan Cardiology recently welcomed Richard Howard, M.D. He is accepting patients at the practice located in the WellSpan Washington Street Health Center in Gettysburg.

“The efforts to advance heart care at WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital are important for the people of Adams County and northern Maryland,” said Jane Hyde, senior vice president, WellSpan Health and president, WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital.

“Dr. Howard’s skills as an interventional cardiologist strengthen our diverse cardiovascular services in Gettysburg that include preventive cardiology, diagnostic services, electrophysiology and cardiac rehabilitation.”

Later this year, WellSpan Cardiology plans to begin offering patients interventional cardiology services, which will include stenting and the continuation of diagnostic cardiology testing and electrophysiology procedures. These advanced procedures will be done in WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital’s newly renovated catheterization lab, which is equipped with the latest technology and equipment.

With the addition of interventional cardiology services, the specialists of WellSpan Cardiology and WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital will offer comprehensive heart and vascular care –conveniently located in Gettysburg. 

WellSpan’s specialists in Gettysburg will continue to closely work with their colleagues at WellSpan York Hospital in offering more advanced specialty procedures for complex cases, such as open-heart surgery.

Howard, who joins WellSpan from Prairie Lakes Health System in Watertown, S.D., and Sanford Health in Bismarck, N.D., earned his medical degree at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and completed an internal medicine residency at Boston Medical Center. He completed fellowships in cardiovascular medicine and interventional cardiology at Boston University School of Medicine.

Howard is board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine with qualifications in cardiovascular disease and interventional cardiology.

To learn more about Howard and WellSpan Cardiology, visit www.WellSpan.org/Howard.

About WellSpan Health

WellSpan Health is an integrated health system that serves the communities of central Pennsylvania and northern Maryland. The organization is comprised of a multispecialty medical group of more than 1,200 physicians and advanced practice clinicians, a regional behavioral health organization, a home care organization, six respected hospitals, more than 15,000 employees, and more than 140 patient care locations. WellSpan is a charitable, mission-driven organization, committed to exceptional care for all, lifelong wellness and healthy communities.

WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital has expanded its cardiac services and enhanced its treatment facilities to benefit local heart patients and bring advanced care close to home.
 
Beginning this week, the hospital started offering advanced, interventional heart care to patients needing either emergency or scheduled cardiac procedures.
 
Services available at the hospital will include catheterization treatments for patients with blockages in their arteries, including angioplasty and stent therapy.
 
Other cardiac procedures offered at WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital include electrophysiology services to treat heart rhythm irregularities; diagnostic catheterization to view blockages around the heart; stress testing to diagnose heart disease; and electrocardiograms (EKGs) to understand the heart’s electrical signals.
 
“With these advanced treatment procedures now available, our patients can receive a range of heart services close to home – from preventative care and diagnostics, to medical and interventional treatments, to cardiac rehabilitation,” said Jane Hyde, senior vice president, WellSpan Health, and president, WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital.
 
The specialists of WellSpan Cardiology will perform the procedures at WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital’s newly renovated catheterization lab, which is equipped with the latest technology and equipment.

“With the addition of these services, we can check for blockages and then perform any necessary intervention at the same time in most cases, making the experience much easier on the patient,” said WellSpan interventional cardiologist Richard Howard, M.D., who joined WellSpan in February 2018.

Howard added that providing these procedures locally means more than just convenience for patients and families – it can often be a matter of life and death.

“The sooner we can open a blocked artery during a heart attack, the better a patient’s chances are of making a full recovery,” Howard said. “Having this technology and expertise available locally is a huge investment that will have a significant impact on outcomes in our community.”

About WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital

WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital is a 76-bed facility located in historic Gettysburg and serves the communities of Adams County and northern Maryland. The hospital offers services that include neurosciences, orthopedics, oncology and infusion, OB/GYN and interventional heart and vascular. Other services available include telemedicine for stroke care. The hospital opened a renovated emergency department in 2012. WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital was founded in 1921 and became part of WellSpan Health when the health system formed in 2001.

About WellSpan Health

WellSpan Health is an integrated health system that serves the communities of central Pennsylvania and northern Maryland. The organization is comprised of a multispecialty medical group of more than 1,200 physicians and advanced practice clinicians, a regional behavioral health organization, a home care organization, six respected hospitals, more than 15,000 employees, and more than 140 patient care locations. WellSpan is a charitable, mission-driven organization, committed to exceptional care for all, lifelong wellness and healthy communities.

Southcentral Pennsylvania’s largest NICU now offers secure live video streaming of newborns to families

WellSpan York Hospital now offers a new way for parents of babies in its Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) to connect with their newborn, even when they can’t be at the hospital.

WellSpan York Hospital this week launched a new system that uses a camera placed at the baby’s bedside, so that parents and other family members who can’t be at the NICU can watch the baby remotely 24/7 by logging into a secure account from their laptop, tablet or smart phone.

The new service – provided by Angel Eye Camera Systems– is offered throughout the hospital’s Level 3 Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, which totals 44 beds – more than any other hospital in southcentral Pennsylvania.

“It is not uncommon for NICU patients to spend weeks, even months in our care,” said Keith Noll, senior vice president, WellSpan Health and president, WellSpan York Hospital. “We understand how truly difficult it can be for parents and families to have to leave their newborns, while they continue to receive advanced neonatal care in our NICU.”

“The Angel Eye system makes it easier for parents and families to stay connected to their little ones while they remain in our care,” he added. “It’s all part of our goal to keep families together – whether they’re in our hospital or just a click away.”

In June, WellSpan York Hospital announced that it expanded its Level 3 NICU, enabling WellSpan neonatologists and nurses to care for more York-area newborns in a state-of-the-art, calm and caring environment.

A Level 3 NICU offers round-the-clock, comprehensive specialty care for very small or very sick babies. Hospitals with Level 3 NICUs can care for newborn infants with extreme prematurity or who are critically ill or require surgical intervention, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.

The NICU is staffed 24/7 with specially trained nurses and neonatologists, who treat approximately 450 children a year in the unit. These newborn patients are treated for various, sometimes life-threatening, conditions – including low birth weight, respiratory problems, infections, prematurity and problems experienced during the birth process.

More than 3,000 babies are delivered at WellSpan York Hospital every year.

The Angel Eye system at WellSpan York Hospital was made possible by generous donors to WellSpan York Health Foundation, which is still accepting donations for the program. Those interested in contributing to this cause, or other foundation initiatives, can visit www.WellSpan.org/Donate.

About WellSpan Health

WellSpan Health is an integrated health system that serves the communities of central Pennsylvania and northern Maryland. The organization is comprised of a multispecialty medical group of more than 1,200 physicians and advanced practice clinicians, a regional behavioral health organization, a home care organization, six respected hospitals, more than 15,000 employees, and more than 140 patient care locations. WellSpan is a charitable, mission-driven organization, committed to exceptional care for all, lifelong wellness and healthy communities.

Program is expected to provide $200,000 in cancer research awards annually

As part of their ongoing clinical collaboration, WellSpan Health and Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center today announced the launch of a new cancer research grant program.

The WellSpan Health and Johns Hopkins Cancer Health Services Research Fund is aimed at supporting research that has the potential to deliver a sustainable product in the field of cancer-related health services research by leveraging the Epic electronic health record.

The application process officially opened today, Monday, Sept. 17, with applications due by Nov. 12.

WellSpan and Johns Hopkins officials said they anticipate that the WellSpan-Johns Hopkins Cancer Health Services Research Fund will fund two grants per year, for up to $100,000 in direct costs for each project in one year.

Award winners will be known as WellSpan Scholars and will be expected to further the field of health services research by asking questions relevant to cancer and those patients who are at risk for, who have, or who are survivors of the disease.

“This new cancer research fund is another example of the wonderfully collaborative oncology relationship between WellSpan and Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center,” said Douglas Arbittier, M.D., vice president of oncology services, WellSpan Health. “Not only will this allow our WellSpan physicians to participate in research with a world-renowned academic institution, but the research will be used to enhance care for cancer patients in our communities.”

WellSpan Health and the Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center – one of the nation’s leaders in research and innovation – last year announced a clinical collaboration aimed at benefiting patients living with cancer in Adams, Lancaster, Lebanon and York counties.

This collaboration provides expanded access for eligible WellSpan patients to clinical trials at the Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center. WellSpan’s coordinated network of cancer centers include WellSpan Adams Cancer Center in Gettysburg, WellSpan Ephrata Cancer Center, WellSpan Sechler Family Cancer Center in Lebanon, WellSpan York Cancer Center and Cherry Tree Cancer Center in Hanover. The collaboration also provides WellSpan cancer physicians with second opinion services from Johns Hopkins specialists who frequently treat the most complex cases.

WellSpan Cancer Centers provide comprehensive cancer services – including radiation, medical and surgical oncology, pain management, rehabilitation, infusion services, genetic counseling and nutrition services – that address patients’ physical, emotional, social and financial needs. Specialists across all four counties routinely collaborate in the treatment planning for patients, and nurse navigators guide patients through all aspects of care.

For more information, or to receive a referral to a WellSpan cancer specialist, individuals may visit WellSpan.org/Cancer.

About WellSpan Health

WellSpan Health is an integrated health system that serves the communities of central Pennsylvania and northern Maryland. The organization is comprised of a multispecialty medical group of more than 1,200 physicians and advanced practice clinicians, a regional behavioral health organization, a home care organization, six respected hospitals, more than 15,000 employees, and more than 140 patient care locations. WellSpan is a charitable, mission-driven organization, committed to exceptional care for all, lifelong wellness and healthy communities. Learn more at WellSpan.org.

WellSpan teams raised more than $5,500 in the recent Lancaster Heart Walk.

About 90 WellSpan employees helped to raise the money for the annual American Heart Association event, which supports heart disease and stroke research, prevention and education.

Carrie Willetts, WellSpan senior vice president of WellSpan Health and president of WellSpan Ephrata Community Hospital, was the chairman of the Lancaster walk. WellSpan Ephrata Community Hospital also was a sponsor of the event.

WellSpan is leading and sponsoring the Heart Walks in the communities where it is located. Staff members also are volunteering to walk and raise money for the cause.

Tom Harlow, senior vice president of WellSpan Health and president of WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital, is chairman of the Lebanon Heart Walk. Jane Hyde, senior vice president of WellSpan Health and president of WellSpan Gettysburg Hospital, is the chairman of the Adams County Heart Walk. Paul Tolerico, MD, of WellSpan Cardiology, and Brent Doores, a WellSpan practice administrator, are chairmen of the York Heart Walk.

WellSpan employees and are committed to making the region a healthier place to live, work and play. It’s what neighbors do. For more on WellSpan’s community work, log onto www.WellSpan.org/neighbors.

Roxanna L. Gapstur, R.N., M.S.N, Ph.D., will lead central Pennsylvania’s largest health system when she succeeds the retiring Kevin Mosser, M.D., on Jan. 2, 2019

The Board of Directors of WellSpan Health has announced the appointment of Roxanna L. Gapstur, R.N., M.S.N., Ph.D., as the next president and chief executive officer of central Pennsylvania’s largest and only locally-governed health system, effective Jan. 2, 2019.  She succeeds Kevin H. Mosser, M.D., who will retire on Jan. 1.

A native of Minnesota, Gapstur currently serves as president of Methodist Hospital and senior vice president of HealthPartners, a $7.2 billion, Minnesota-based integrated health plan and care delivery organization that includes eight hospitals, 1,800 employed physicians and more than 100 care locations. She also provides senior executive oversight of HealthPartners’ Hutchinson Health and, through a management services agreement, Glencoe Regional Health Services.

The appointment follows a national search that was led by the system’s community Board of Directors.

“Roxanna comes to WellSpan and central Pennsylvania with a wealth of leadership experience in a large, complex health care organization that has experienced significant change and growth,” according to Steven M. Hovis, board chairman. “She also possesses an extensive background in the nursing profession, which aligns with WellSpan’s history of strong clinical leadership.

“Roxanna understands and appreciates the vital contribution that a locally-governed, mission-driven health system plays in the good health of its friends and neighbors, and she has an impressive track record of engaging with local leaders to make communities healthier, better places to live,” Hovis continued. “We are excited to welcome her to central Pennsylvania.”

As a senior vice president at HealthPartners, Gapstur has played an instrumental role in supporting the growth of the organization in the western Minnesota market through a recent merger and affiliation with regional expansion of specialty care; post-acute partnerships; operational leadership of care management strategies for high-risk populations with multiple payers, including a Next Generation accountable care organization; and as one of the executive sponsors of quality improvement across six hospitals.

Under her leadership, Methodist Hospital has received multiple awards and distinctions for quality and safety, including a 2018 Citation of Merit from the American Hospital Association's Quest for Quality Prize, HealthGrades Top 100 Hospitals, Truven Analytics Top 100 Hospitals, Truven Everest Award, Top 50 Cardiovascular Hospitals, and U.S. News & World Report regional leader.

Gapstur’s previous positions at HealthPartners have included Chief Operating Officer, Methodist Hospital, and Vice President, Patient Care Services/Chief Nursing Officer, Park Nicollet.

“WellSpan is a highly respected health system with a long history of service to its communities,” said Gapstur. “The growth and success of the organization is a testament to the commitment of the system’s board, leadership, physicians, staff members and volunteers, as well as a healthy culture of collaboration. I am very excited to lead such a fine organization, as WellSpan continues its journey of transformation in a rapidly changing health care environment.”

An active member of the community, Gapstur currently serves as a member of the Board of Directors of the Greater Twin Cities United Way, chair of the Metropolitan Healthcare Partnership and guest presenter for the University of Minnesota Master of Healthcare Administration Program. She has also served as past president and board chair of the Minnesota Organization of Leaders in Nursing and as a past board member for the Hemophilia Foundation of Minnesota and the Dakotas.

Gapstur holds a bachelor’s degree in nursing from the College of St. Catherine, St. Paul, Minn.; a master’s degree in nursing from the University of Minnesota; and a doctorate in nursing from the University of Minnesota. She and her husband, Kevin, have four adult daughters.  The couple will relocate to central Pennsylvania soon.

About WellSpan Health

WellSpan Health is an integrated health system that serves the communities of central Pennsylvania and northern Maryland. The organization is comprised of a multispecialty medical group of more than 1,200 physicians and advanced practice clinicians, a regional behavioral health organization, a home care organization, six respected hospitals, more than 15,000 employees, and more than 140 patient care locations. WellSpan is a charitable, mission-driven organization, committed to exceptional care for all, lifelong wellness and healthy communities. Learn more at WellSpan.org.

WellSpan Urgent Care to open in Hanover and West Manchester Township

WellSpan Health today announced that it will expand its walk-in urgent care service with two new facilities in York County.

The integrated, regional health system plans to open a WellSpan Urgent Care in the Hanover area in December, with another WellSpan Urgent Care set to debut in West Manchester Township in late January.

“We recognize when getting an appointment at your doctor’s office just doesn’t fit your schedule,” said Creston Tate, D.O., WellSpan medical director of urgent care. “WellSpan Urgent Care is part of our commitment to making it as easy as possible for people to get the care they need for themselves or their loved ones.

“Both of these locations are conveniently located so that those who live and work in the Hanover or York areas have easy access to our expert physicians and clinicians,” he added.

The Hanover location will be at 100 Eisenhower Drive, Suite 360, Hanover. The West Manchester location will be in the West Manchester Town Center, 717 Town Center Drive, York.

The new locations will join five other WellSpan Urgent Care sites across York, Adams and Lancaster counties. Those who live and work in York County also have access to WellSpan Urgent Care at 96 Sophia Drive in Shrewsbury and 2250 E. Market St. in York.

Like all WellSpan Urgent Care centers, the Hanover and West Manchester locations will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. seven days a week.

Patients can take advantage of an online service called “Reserve My Spot,” which allows them to choose a time slot that suits their schedule. This can be done via smartphones, computer, tablets or at an in-person check-in kiosk at the office.

WellSpan Urgent Care offers walk-in care for patients age 3 months and older, who have non-emergency care needs, such as minor illnesses and injuries – from sore throats and coughs to back pain, rashes and burns. Both the Hanover and West Manchester locations will also offer on-site X-ray services.

In addition, all WellSpan Urgent Care locations offer school, camp, college and sports physicals, as well as some routine immunizations.

For more information on WellSpan Urgent Care, visit www.WellSpan.org/Urgent. 

About WellSpan Health

WellSpan Health is an integrated health system that serves the communities of central Pennsylvania and northern Maryland. The organization is comprised of a multispecialty medical group of more than 1,200 physicians and advanced practice clinicians, a regional behavioral health organization, a home care organization, six respected hospitals, more than 15,000 employees, and more than 140 patient care locations. WellSpan is a charitable, mission-driven organization, committed to exceptional care for all, lifelong wellness and healthy communities. Learn more at WellSpan.org.