A Simple Solution Making a Big Difference in Critical Care
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Thinking about lifesaving medical care usually brings to mind complex surgeries or breakthrough medications. But at Dignity Health East Valley, we're proving that sometimes the most powerful interventions can be surprisingly straightforward - event "ordinary."
For patients in intensive care who need breathing support, something as basic as a proper oral hygiene literally can mean the difference between life and death. That's why we launched an innovative program at Chandler Regional Medical Center that's changing how we care for our most vulnerable patients.
The challenge is significant: When patients require breathing support, bacteria in the mouth can travel to the lungs, causing serious complications. Traditional hospital protocols recognize this risk, but the demanding environment of the ICU makes consistent oral care challenging for nursing staff to maintain.
Our solution? We brought in dedicated Critical Care Dental Hygienists to work alongside our ICU team. These specialists provide comprehensive oral care every 12 hours to patients on breathing support, while also training nurses in best practices for oral health maintenance.
The results have been remarkable. Not only have we seen improved oral health conditions and outcomes among patients, but our nursing staff report feeling more confident and better equipped to provide this essential care. Perhaps most encouraging, we've actually reduced supply costs while delivering better care.
With funding from CareQuest Institute for Oral Health, we are working to expand this successful model to reach more patients. Several major hospitals have already launched similar pilot programs, recognizing the potential to save lives through integrating oral care into medical care.
Your support helps us continue gathering the crucial data needed to make this level of care the standard across all our hospitals. Together, we're proving that sometimes the simplest solutions can have the most profound impact on patient care and recovery.
Together, we're not just improving medical outcomes - we're transforming how hospitals approach patient care, one beautiful smile at a time.
Learn More About Our Community Oral Health Program »
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A Healthcare Solution Taking Root in the East Valley |
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When Gilbert resident Eric K. needed a new primary care doctor last year, he initially faced what many Arizonans know all too well - closed patient panels or months-long wait times. But through Dignity Health's Family Medicine Clinic, he found not just timely care, but an experience that exceeded his expectations.
"The resident physicians spent nearly 45 minutes with me, really listening to my concerns," says Eric. "It was the most thorough medical visit I've had in years and I'm recommending them to all of my family and friends."
The level of attentive care is no accident. As Arizona grapples with a severe physician shortage, Dignity Health East Valley has taken bold action by investing in five medical residency programs. The Family Medicine Clinic, a cornerstone of this initiative, boasts an extraordinary 99% patient satisfaction rate while training the next generation of physicians.
"Our resident physicians are graduates of top medical schools and provide exceptional whole-person care to all family members including, women, children and adults of all ages starting from newborn and prenatal care while developing developing deep roots in our community," Dr. Abdul Waheed, Academic Chairman, Department of Family Medicine. "We have built a faculty physician team who have national acclaim in medical education, creation of new knowledge, and outstanding patient care."
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Residency Royale 2025: A Winning Hand for Emergency Medicine |
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The excitement of casino games met the spirit of philanthropy at this year's Residency Royale Casino Night, where generous supporters came together to champion the future of emergency medicine. The 2nd annual fundraiser exceeded expectations, generating over $50,000 in vital support for Dignity Health East Valley's Emergency Medicine Residency program at Chandler Regional and Mercy Gilbert Medical Centers.
Thanks to our leading sponsor, Envision Healthcare Charitable Fund, and the enthusiastic participation of our community, the event made an immediate impact on medical education in the East Valley. The proceeds are already enhancing our residents' training through crucial investments in advanced medical technology and educational opportunities. Our residents now have access to additional Point of Care Ultrasound (PoCUS) devices, essential tools that enable more accurate bedside diagnostics. The funds also support our residents' participation in the annual educational conferences, ensuring they master critical life-saving techniques.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to this success, our sponsors, guests, volunteers, and the organizing committee. Your support isn't just investing in medical education; it's investing in the health and well-being of our entire community. Together, were building a stronger foundation for emergency medicine in the East Valley.
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Your Support to Power Peer-to-Peer Connection
Thanks to donor support, the East Valley Foundation launched a dedicated Peer Support Team in 2021 to foster employee well-being through trained volunteers who offer empathetic listening and valuable resources, The diverse 65-member team spans multiple departments, from nursing and pharmacy to spiritual care and social work, ensuring comprehensive support across all employee disciplines. Team members actively engage with their colleagues, providing peer support at least five times quarterly, while maintaining their skills through regular check-ins, creating a robust network of emotional support throughout the hospitals.
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Celebrate Your Caregiver with a Gift in Gratitude
Each year, we have special opportunities to recognize the incredible caregivers at Chandler Regional and Mercy Gilbert Medical Centers:
- Doctors' Day - Sunday, March 30
- Nurses Week - May 6 - 12
- Hospital Week - May 11 - 17
These beloved recognition days give patients, families, and our community a chance to express gratitude for the physicians, nurses, and healthcare teams who care for our community with skill, compassion, and humankindness.
One meaningful way to honor their dedication is by making a gift in their honor. Your philanthropic support helps provide new equipment, medical education and ensures our caregivers have the resources they need to serve patients with excellence.
Join us in celebrating our caregivers with a gift of gratitude today! »
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Take Control of Your Legacy: The Importance of a Will or Trust
Every legacy tells a story. While we spend our lives working hard and caring for those we love, nearly 60% of Americans haven't taken the crucial step to protect what matters most. Recently, we witnessed the transformative power of estate planning at our educational seminar, where participants discovered how a thoughtfully crafted will or trust does more than distribute assets - it preserves your values, protects your family, and ensures your life's work creates a lasting impact.
Think of estate planning as writing the final chapter of your life story. It's your chance to provide for loved ones, support causes you believe in, and leave the world a little better than you found it. The greatest gift we can give our families isn't just financial security, it's the peace of mind knowing their future is protected and your values will echo through generations.
The time to shape your legacy is now. Let your life's work reflect the care and intention you've always shown to those you love.
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| Save the Date for Our Upcoming Events |
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Women's Health Council Physician Meet & Greet
Join the Dignity Health East Valley's Women's Health Council Tuesday, March 25 from 5 - 7 PM at the Starbucks across the street from Mercy Gilbert Medical Center for an exclusive opportunity to connect with top women's health physicians in the East Valley.
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23rd Annual George Rozsa Golf Classic
This annual golf tournament has raised over $3 million to support the greatest needs of our non-profit medical centers. Please join us at this fun event to support the patients and families we serve.
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Heaven's Hummingbirds Family Remembrance Run
Registration is open! Walk or run in the annual Family Remembrance Run in honor of the babies that have been lost to miscarriage, stillbirth, or neonatal complications, whom we call our Heaven's Hummingbirds.
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