2011 Archived Press Releases

Banner Boswell’s Aphasia Support Group begins in January
SUN CITY, Ariz. (Dec. 28, 2011) – A new support group at Banner Boswell Medical Center in Sun City aims to offer hope to people living with aphasia, which is often the inability to express words and sometimes the inability to comprehend words, usually resulting from stroke or other forms of brain injury.

Skyline Imaging expands hours to serve more patients
LOVELAND, Colo. (Dec. 22, 2011) — To enhance medical imaging outpatient services and offer lower prices, McKee Medical Center will schedule most outpatient medical imaging appointments at Skyline Imaging beginning Jan. 2.

Banner Ironwood expands
SAN TAN VALLEY, Ariz. (Dec. 22, 2011) - Banner Ironwood Medical Center will open its fourth floor Jan. 4 to serve more patients in the Valley.

Banner Churchill Medical Imaging department recognized
FALLON, Nev. (Dec. 22, 2011) – In November, Banner Churchill Community Hospital’s Diagnostic Imaging department was awarded a Certificate of Recognition from the Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology as a recognized clinical education setting for the radiography program sponsored by Great Basin College.

Horizon Laboratory becomes preferred provider to serve major insurances
LOVELAND, Colo. (Dec. 22, 2011) – Horizon Laboratory is excited to announce that effective Jan. 1, 2012, the facility will be a preferred provider of laboratory services to United Healthcare, PacifiCare and Secure Horizons patients.

Banner Boswell Medical Center to host Joint Club open house Jan. 16
SUN CITY, Ariz. (Dec. 21, 2011) – For some people living with chronic joint pain, the New Year may be the perfect time to find out more about joint replacement. If you’re considering joint replacement surgery, Banner Boswell Medical Center in Sun City invites you to a free open house of the Joint Club at 10 a.m. Monday, Jan. 16.

Banner Health welcomes new pediatrician to Greeley
GREELEY, Colo. (Dec. 20, 2011) – Banner Health welcomes a new pediatrician to the Banner Health Clinic–Pediatrics in Greeley.

Study reveals the four drugs that most often land seniors in the emergency room
SUN CITY, Ariz. (Dec. 20, 2011) – Two-thirds of emergency hospitalizations for adverse drug events among seniors are attributable to four commonly prescribed medications, according to a recent study in the New England Journal of Medicine.

Banner Health Network to participate as Medicare Pioneer Accountable Care Organization
PHOENIX (Dec. 19, 2011) -- The Banner Health Network (BHN) today announced that it has been selected to participate in the Pioneer Accountable Care Organization (ACO) model, a transformative new initiative sponsored by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Innovation Center. Through the Pioneer ACO Model, BHN will work with CMS to provide Medicare beneficiaries with higher quality care, while reducing growth in Medicare expenditures through enhanced care coordination.

Banner Health named as one of Phoenixs best places to work
PHOENIX (Dec. 13, 2011) – Banner Health, one of the state’s largest employers, has been named as one of the state’s best.

Body Shoppe can help with your New Year’s resolutions
GREELEY, Colo, (Dec. 13, 2011) — Get in shape this New Year and develop healthy habits to last a lifetime in Body Shoppe, a 12-week lifestyle change program sponsored by the Cardiac Rehab Program of North Colorado Medical Center.

New program at East Valley
SAN TAN VALLEY, Ariz. (Dec. 12, 2011) – Three East Valley Banner Health hospitals are testing a new program that allows patients with behavioral health issues in hospital Emergency departments to “see” a psychiatrist via a secured video link.

Banner Health announces new clinic in Fort Morgan
BRUSH, Colo. (Dec. 12, 2011) – Banner Health and East Morgan County Hospital (EMCH) are pleased to announce the addition of a family practice and specialty clinic in Fort Morgan. Banner Health Clinic, Fort Morgan will be located at 909 E. Railroad Avenue. The clinic will have two new family practice providers, Lila Ann Statz, MD and Nancy Samples, FNP who will see patients beginning in March 2012.

Kaiser Permanente and Banner Health agreement to bring health care to Fort Collins, Loveland areas
Kaiser Permanente Colorado, the state’s largest non-profit health plan, today announced plans to offer health care services for the first time in Northern Colorado by late 2012. The health plan has filed for approval with the state Division of Insurance, to expand into Northern Colorado with new Kaiser Permanente medical offices in Loveland, Fort Collins and Greeley, a contracted network of community providers, and an exclusive hospital agreement with Banner Health hospitals and physicians.

Banner Good Samaritan Kidney Transplant Center Named Top in the United States
PHOENIX (Dec. 9, 2011) – The National Institutes for Health funded a study by a web-based service, called Konnectology which has identified the top 10 kidney transplant centers in the United States, and at the top of their list is Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center.

Taking Precautions Around the Home Can Keep Your Holidays Jolly
PHOENIX (Dec. 9, 2011) – The holiday season typically is a time for fun and creating happy family memories. It can also bring the potential for accidental poisonings. The Banner Poison and Drug Information Center offers some advice to keep the kids and pets safe during the festivities.

Annual McKee Community Health Award to be presented at McKee Thanks event
LOVELAND, Colo. (Dec. 9, 2011) --- Formerly known as the Thank You Loveland Luncheon, McKee Thanks will continue in the same tradition of recognizing and thanking the Loveland community for its support of McKee Medical Center with a lunch event. McKee Thanks will take place Thursday, March 8 at 11:30 a.m. at the McKee Conference and Wellness Center.

Hospital employees receive AK Nurse of the Year Awards
FAIRBANKS, Alaska. (Dec. 8, 2011) – Five Fairbanks Memorial Hospital/Denali Center (FMH/DC) employees received the Alaska March of Dimes Nurse of the Year Awards on Friday, Nov.18 at the Captain Cook Hotel in Anchorage. Of the 120 nominees of the prestigious statewide award, twenty-seven were FMH/DC employees. The winners from FMH/DC were Hannah Brice-Smith, RN, for Community Case Management Care Coordinator, Gena Edmiston, RN and Chief Nursing Officer at FMH/DC, for Administration, Eugenia “Genie” Erickson, LPN, for LPN, Heather Cunningham, RN, for Rising Star, and Leilani Sauer for Friend of Nursing.

Financial Officer
MESA, Ariz. (Dec. 8, 2011) – Banner Health recently hired Stanley Adams as chief financial officer for Banner Baywood Medical Center and Banner Heart Hospital.

Windsor’s Banner physicians promote reading with health
GREELEY, Colo. (Dec. 7, 2011) — Children who see Dr. Jonathan Kary or Dr. Trina Kessinger at the Medical Arts Centre of Windsor are receiving a good book along with a good checkup from the clinic.

Banner Lassen Medical Center Welcomes New Hospitalist
SUSANVILLE, Calif. (Dec. 6, 2011) -- Michael Azarkh, MD has joined Banner Lassen Medical Center’s Hospitalists group. He comes to Lassen County from Redondo Beach, Calif. Azarkh is a Russian Native and speaks fluent Russian.

December Cooking Class at Banner Olive Branch Senior Center
SUN CITY, Ariz. (Dec. 6, 2011) – Banner Olive Branch Senior Center will host its monthly cooking class on Monday Dec. 19 at 1 p.m.

Shelby Nelson named Platte County CEO
WHEATLAND, Wyo. (Nov. 29, 2011) -- Jim Ferando, president of Banner Health’s Western Region, has announced that Shelby Nelson has been named to the permanent role of chief executive officer for Platte County Memorial Hospital in Wheatland, Wyo.

New obstetrician/gynecologist joins Loveland clinic
LOVELAND, Colo. (Nov. 29, 2011) — Banner Health is pleased to welcome Jonathan Franco, MD, to OB/GYN Associates of Loveland.

Cherie Martin named CEO for Banner Behavioral Health Hospital
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (Nov. 29, 2011) – Monique “Cherie” Martin, RN, BSN, MSN, MHA, FACHE, has accepted the position of chief executive officer at the Banner Behavioral Health Hospital effective Jan. 1, 2012. She replaces Pat Little-Upah, who is retiring in December after 30 years of service.

J.P. Valin, MD, named Chief Medical Officer for Banner Medical Group - Western Region
PHOENIX (Nov. 29, 2011) - J.P. Valin, MD, has accepted the position of chief medical officer for Banner Medical Group – Western Region. Dr. Valin will join the Banner Medical Group leadership team on Monday, Dec. 12, 2011. His office will be located at Banner Corporate Center in Greeley, Colo.

NCMC Spirit of Women receives national recognition
GREELEY, Colo. (Nov. 23, 2011) — North Colorado Medical Center has announced that Spirit of Women Health Network has selected the Greeley hospital as a Spirit of Women Premier Hospital.

McKee Medical Center Foundation to participate in second annual Colorado Gives Day
LOVELAND, Colo. (Nov. 23, 2011) – McKee Medical Center Foundation announces its support of the second annual Colorado Gives Day – an initiative to increase philanthropy in Colorado through online giving to Colorado charities.

Ironwood flu vaccine
SAN TAN VALLEY, Ariz. (Nov. 21, 2011) –In an unprecedented commitment to patient safety, Banner Ironwood Medical Center is requiring all staff, physicians and volunteers to get the flu vaccine this year. Approximately 95 percent of staff received the vaccine to date.

Aetna Enters Accountable Care Collaboration with Banner Health Network, Introduces Aetna Whole Health to Employers in Phoenix Area
Phoenix, AZ (Nov. 21, 2011) — Aetna (NYSE: AET) today announced an accountable care collaboration with Banner Health Network and the introduction of Aetna Whole Health, a new commercial health care product that provides members access to highly coordinated care from physicians and facilities in the Banner Health Network. The Banner Health Network model is focused on wellness and improving patient care outcomes through better coordination and access to patient information. The new product will be available later this month to Maricopa County and some Pinal County employers with two-100 eligible employees.

Fairbanks Memorial Hospital to promote full-term
FAIRBANKS, Alaska (Nov. 17, 2011) --- Fairbanks Memorial Hospital (FMH), in coordination with Banner Health, recently established a policy promoting full-term labor and delivery for pregnancies of 39 or more weeks, absent any medical conditions that threaten the mother or baby.

EMCH Lobby Lecture early warning signs for stroke and heart attack
BRUSH, Colo. (Nov. 17, 2011) – The East Morgan County Hospital internist, Scott Faulkner, MD, invites area residents to join him Dec. 13 for the next Lobby Lecture Series topic: Early Warning Signs of Stroke and Heart Attacks.

Banner Boswell Banner Del E Webb medical centers announce new phone numbers
Sun Cities, Ariz. (Nov. 16, 2011) – Banner Boswell and Banner Del E. Webb medical centers have new phone prefixes effective immediately. If you are dialing Banner Boswell, you will now dial 623-832-4000. To dial Banner Del E. Webb, the number is now 623-524-4000.

Steven Charney honored as Banner Boswell’s 2011 ‘Top Doc’
SUN CITY, Ariz. (Nov. 16, 2011) – Steven Charney, MD, an interventional radiologist with Sun City Imaging, has been named the 2011 "Top Doc” award recipient at Banner Boswell Medical Center in Sun City.

Banner Del E. Webb hosts ‘Eating Right with Diabetes’ on Dec. 8
SUN CITY WEST, Ariz. (Nov. 16, 2011) – Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center is hosting "Eating Right with Diabetes," a free seminar from 3 to 4 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 8 in the Auditorium, located in the nonprofit hospital at 14502 W. Meeker Blvd., Sun City West.

Banner Facilities To Use First Heart Valve Placed Without Open Heart Surgery
PHOENIX (Nov.15, 2011) – Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center and Banner Heart Hospital will be among the first in the nation to offer a new procedure that can replace an aortic heart valve in patients with Aortic Stenosis. This week, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the Sapien Transcatheter Heart Valve, which can be placed without the invasive open heart surgery that was previously required to treat such patients

Andy Byers named Ogallala 2011 Caring Kind Recipient
LAVISTA, Neb. (Nov. 15, 2011)— For 32 years, the Nebraska Hospital Association (NHA) has paid tribute to the state’s most caring hospital workers by honoring them with the Caring Kind Award. Andy Byers, Maintenance Tech, at Banner Health Ogallala Community Hospital was recently recognized during the Caring Kind Awards Luncheon held on October 21 in LaVista, Neb.

Banner Boswell lecture on Dec. 13 answers back pain questions
SUN CITY, Ariz. (Nov. 15, 2011) – Back pain is one of the most common health complaints, affecting 80 percent of people at some point in their lives. That's why Banner Boswell Medical Center is hosting "Why Does My Back Hurt?" a free seminar from 9 to 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 13.

EMCH schedules blood drive for Nov. 22
BRUSH, Colo. (Nov. 15, 2011) – East Morgan County Hospital will be holding a “Be Thankful” blood drive on November 22 at the hospital. “Donating blood gives back to our community and helps our patients when they need a transfusion,” said Cindy Nestor, Interim Laboratory Manager at EMCH. “On average a transfusion for a patient will require two units.”

Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center welcomes daVinci robot to surgical team
SUN CITY WEST (Nov. 15, 2011) – Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center welcomed the daVinci surgical robot to one of its operating rooms last week, and will begin using it by the end of the month. The amazing machine doesn’t replace surgeons, but complements their expertise by boosting their vision and precision during an operation.

Banner Good Samaritan's Cavanagh Heart Center Receives Prestigious Heart Failure Accreditation
PHOENIX (Nov. 14, 2011) – Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center's Cavanagh Heart Center has been designated an Accredited Heart Failure Center from the Healthcare Accreditation Colloquium (HAC), a nationally recognized organization dedicated to improving care and survival rates for heart failure patients.

Unity for Our Community at Banner Del E. Webb to conduct food drive
SUN CITY WEST (Nov. 9, 2011) – Unity for Our Community at Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center aims to help feed those in need this holiday season during its nonperishable food drive.

Gala raises more than $91,000 for the Stepping Stones Adult Day Program at McKee
LOVELAND, Colo. (Nov. 7, 2011) – McKee Presents…Hearts of the West, presented by The Friends of the Hospital, with major sponsorship provided by Home State Bank, was held Saturday, Nov. 5 at the Embassy Suites in Loveland. Attended by more than 300 business owners, physicians, community leaders and McKee Foundation supporters, the event raised more than $91,000. Ticket sales, sponsorship contributions, and auction revenue will benefit the Stepping Stones Adult Day Program at McKee.

Washakie Hospital Foundation purchases blanket warmer
WORLAND, Wyo. (Nov. 7, 2011)- Washakie Hospital Foundation has donated a blanket warmer to provide added comfort to patients receiving imaging tests. The $8,000 cabinet style blanket warmer has digitally controlled heating to assure uniform heating of blankets and patient gowns.

X-ray free technology allows better placement of central catheter lines
SUN CITY WEST (Nov. 7, 2011) – Banner Del E. Webb is the first Banner facility and among the first in the state to use the Sapiens TCS (Bard Access Systems) device for the insertion of PICC lines.

EMCH Lobby Lecture Car Accidents and Blast Injuries
BRUSH, Colo. (Nov. 3, 2011) – The East Morgan County Hospital emergency department physician assistant, Mike Roberts, invites area residents to join him Nov. 8 for the next Lobby Lecture series topic, Trauma: Car Accidents and Blast Injuries.

Citywide Memory Event
PHOENIX, ARIZ. (Nov. 3, 2011) – Are you concerned that you may be experiencing memory loss? Have you had your memory tested recently?

EMCH salutes Health Information Management Week
BRUSH, Colo. (Nov. 2, 2011) – East Morgan County Hospital salutes the dedicated health information management (HIM) and health information technology (HIT) professionals on staff and in our community, who play an integral role in today’s rapidly evolving health care industry.

Banner Del E. Webb launches valet service for patients
SUN CITY WEST (Nov. 1, 2011) – Halloween brought new treat for patients visiting the Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center women's center and day-surgery. The nonprofit hospital launched a pilot program this month that will provide an added level of service for its patients, as a free valet service started Oct. 31 at the Lousia Kellam Center for Women’s Health entrance. American Valet serves that entrance 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Mystie Johnson becomes new CMO of Banner Del E. Webb
SUN CITY WEST (Oct. 21, 2011) – Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center has a new top doc in Mystie Johnson, MD, who became the facility’s chief medical officer this month.

Banner Boswell encourages community to donate blood during holidays
SUN CITY, Ariz. (Oct. 31, 2011) – This holiday season, one employee at Banner Boswell Medical Center in Sun City, is asking people not to buy gifts for their loved ones. Instead, Tammy Miner-Agee, a Peoria resident and health unit coordinator at the nonprofit hospital, is urging people to donate blood.

Banner Health pilots Telepsych program; allows patients to speak to behavioral expert from Emergency department
PHOENIX (Oct. 31, 2011) – Two Banner Health hospitals are testing a new program that allows patients with behavioral health issues in hospital Emergency departments to “see” a psychiatrist via a secured video link.

Banner Boswell honors October volunteer of the month
SUN CITY, Ariz. (Oct. 28, 2011) – The Volunteer Services department at Banner Boswell Medical Center has selected Kathy Skaggs as the October Volunteer of the Month.

Banner Boswell earns NICHE designation for elder care
Sun City, AZ (Oct. 27, 2011) – Banner Boswell Medical Center has been designated as a NICHE hospital, in recognition of the unique care it brings to the Sun City community. NICHE (Nurses Improving Care for Health System Elders) designation means that the hospital has met the criteria for providing optimal care to the geriatric population.

Cardon Children's to host free marrow donor drive in November
Cardon Children’s Medical Center will host a Marrow Donor Drive with the National Marrow Donor Program on Saturday, November 5, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Fiesta Mall, 1445 W. Southern Ave. in Mesa.

Long-time Greeley women’s health clinic joins Banner Medical Group
GREELEY, Colo. (Oct. 25, 2011) — The Women’s Clinic of Greeley is now Banner Health Clinic – OB/Gyn Greeley and part of the Banner Health family of physicians.

Need help paying for healthcare?
BRUSH, Colo. (Oct. 24, 2011) – East Morgan County Hospital will host a forum, Paying for Healthcare, as a service to the community on Wednesday, Nov. 9, at the hospital, 2400 W. Edison in Brush. Paying for Healthcare will be held in the main conference room from 3:30 – 6 p.m.

Community Hospital institutes daily quiet hours
TORRINGTON, Wyo. (Oct. 18, 2011) – Beginning Nov. 1, 2011, Banner Community Hospital in Torrington will institute quiet hours from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. daily. During this time the main hallway through the hospital will be closed to through traffic, and activities related to care will be minimized to allow a critical period of rest for patients.

Community Healthcare Foundation donates $2,500 to Goshen Care Center
TORRINGTON, Wyo. (October 20, 2011) – The Community Healthcare Foundation donated $2,500 to the Goshen Care Center living room project this week. Goshen Care Center began raising money to update the activities room in October 2010, and has since raised over $7,500 of the $10,391 needed to complete the project.

Robert Fried, MD, joins Banner Health as palliative care specialist
GREELEY, Colo. (Oct. 18, 2011) – Banner Health welcomes palliative care specialist Robert A. Fried, MD, to its team of medical professionals in Greeley.

First Baby Marks the “Genesis” of a New Century for Banner Good Samaritan
PHOENIX (Oct. 18, 2011) – Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center began its first century of providing healthcare to Arizona on Oct. 18, 1911, and today, the birth of a new century begins with Genesis Ballesteros.

Banner Boswell installs new CT scanner, offers patients lower doses of radiation
SUN CITY, Ariz. (Oct. 17, 2011) – This month, Banner Boswell Medical Center in Sun City is installing a new CT scanner to enhance the level of service to patients in the Northwest Valley. This is the third CT scanner at the non-profit hospital, which performs about 30,000 CT scans each year.

Banner Del E. Webb welcomes new mobile breast MRI unit
SUN CITY WEST (Oct. 14, 2011) – For three days every week, a new mobile breast Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) unit is now on campus of Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center located at 14502 W. Meeker Blvd. Sun City West, adding an additional layer of detection for patients. The unit is available for exams Fridays, Mondays and Tuesdays.

Banner Thunderbird accredited as heart failure center
GLENDALE, Ariz. (Oct. 14, 2011) –Banner Thunderbird Medical Center has been designated an Accredited Heart Failure Center from the Healthcare Accreditation Colloquium (HAC), a nationally recognized organization dedicated to improving care and survival rates for heartfailure patients.

Banner Good Samaritan Celebrates a Century of Providing Health Care To Arizona
PHOENIX (Oct. 13, 2011) – Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center has come a long way since its original 20-bed hospital in 1911. The medical center, which is four months older than the state of Arizona will mark its 100th anniversary with a community celebration on Saturday, Oct. 22 from 10 am to 2 pm.

Burn Center golf tournament raises record amount of funds
GREELEY, Colo. (Oct. 12, 2011) – Despite British Open-like conditions with rain, wind, and low temperatures setting the tone for the day, more than 300 golfers, sponsors and volunteers participated in the sold-out 21st annual Western States Burn Center Golf Classic, hosted by the North Colorado Medical Center Foundation.

McKee Breast Center earns Center of Excellence designation
LOVELAND, Colo. (Oct. 12, 2011) – The McKee Breast Center at McKee Medical Center has been designated a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence by the American College of Radiology.

McKee Medical Center announces schedule of flu shot clinics
LOVELAND, Colo. (Oct. 11, 2011) –Wellness Services at McKee Medical Center will offer several community flu shot clinics throughout the area over the next few weeks. The vaccination offered is to help prevent the seasonal flu. The Centers for Disease Control recommends everyone 6 months of age and older have a yearly flu vaccine. The 2011-2012 flu vaccine will protect against viruses that research shows will be most common this season: influenza A (H1N1) virus, influenza A (H3N2) virus, and influenza B virus.

Banner Health expands regional diabetes education program
GREELEY, Colo. (Oct. 10, 2011) – To meet the ongoing demand for resources and education related to diabetes, the staff of Banner Health Outpatient Diabetes Education have enhanced and expanded the program in Greeley, Windsor and Loveland. The program will expand to Johnstown Family Physicians later this year.

Loveland anesthesiology group becomes part of Banner Health
LOVELAND, Colo. (Oct. 7, 2011) – The anesthesiology group that has served McKee Medical Center since the hospital opened in 1976 now has become a part of Banner Health.

Banner Del E. Webb honored for organ donation efforts
SUN CITY WEST (Oct. 6, 2011) – Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center received recognition for its contributions to The Donor Network of Arizona at its 25th Anniversary awards dinner last month.

McKee Presents…Hearts of the West Gala celebrates 30 Years of Giving
LOVELAND, Colo. (Oct. 4, 2011) – Presented by The Friends of the Hospital, McKee Presents…Hearts of the West Gala, will be Saturday, Nov. 5 from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. at the Embassy Suites in Loveland.

North Colorado Medical Center features staff, community in video
GREELEY, Colo. (Oct. 4, 2011) – You can now see the Pink Glove Dance featuring North Colorado Medical Center staff members and area breast cancer survivors.

Nurse practitioner earns certification in heart failure care
GREELEY, Colo. (Oct. 3, 2011)—Missy Jensen, nurse practitioner, with the CardioVascular Institute of North Colorado at North Colorado Medical Center and McKee Medical Center, has been named a Certified Heart Failure nurse by the American Association of Heart Failure Nurses.

Early Detection Saves Lives
SUN CITY WEST (Oct. 4, 2011) – The earlier breast cancer is detected, the greater the chance for recovery and survival. While the yearly mammogram is still the gold standard for early detection, there are other imaging techniques that when used in conjunction with mammography can provide an earlier diagnosis. A panel of experts and physicians will discuss these new techniques from 12 to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 26, at Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center, 14502 W. Meeker Blvd., Sun City West. Register for this free event by calling (602) 230-CARE (2273).

Banner Boswell seeks special project volunteers
SUN CITY, Ariz. (Oct. 4, 2011) – Banner Boswell Medical Center in Sun City currently is looking for volunteers to provide assistance at the hospital in floating positions for special projects. Special project volunteers perform a variety of tasks including greeting visitors and providing clerical assistance to specific departments or areas as needed.

Remembrance Day helps parents cope with loss
SUN CITY WEST, Ariz. (Oct. 3, 2011) – Whether a baby lives just a few short weeks in the womb, or lives only a single minute on this earth, they are still children in the hearts of their mothers. Mothers who lose babies through miscarriage, stillbirth or shortly after birth often live with an unresolved grief. Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center honors these infants, their mothers and families during its annual Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day Ceremony, “Remembering Our Babies.”

Banner Olive Branch Senior Center to help veterans to get jobs
SUN CITY, Ariz. (Oct. 3, 2011) – Headquartered in Arizona, Operation American Patriot, a newly formed Veterans’ advocacy group, is partnering with local businesses and organizations to assist America’s Veterans in accessing much-needed medical, behavioral health and employment resources.

Clifford L. Zeller, MD, named new chief medical officer for Banner Behavioral Health Hospital
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (Oct. 3, 2011) – Clifford L. Zeller, MD, has accepted the position of Chief Medical Officer at Banner Behavioral Health Hospital in Scottsdale. Dr. Zeller replaces former Chief Medical Officer James Clark, MD, who retired earlier this year.

McKee Medical Center Turkey Trot issues Middle School Challenge
LOVELAND, Colo. (Sept. 30, 2011) – The Loveland or Berthoud middle school that has the most participants in the 2011 Turkey Trot at McKee Medical Center is in for an early Christmas present: a $250 grant courtesy of the McKee Medical Center Foundation.

Three Banner Health hospitals named Top 100 Critical Access Hospitals
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (Sept. 29, 2011)—Three Banner Health hospitals have been named to the list of the Top 100 Critical Access Hospitals in America, by the National Rural Health Association during its annual conference.

Banner Boswell welcomes new neurosurgeon
SUN CITY, Ariz. (Sept. 28, 2011) – Banner Health announces the addition of a new neurosurgeon to Banner Sun City Neurosurgical Specialists, located on the second floor of Banner Boswell Medical Center, 13188 N. 103rd Drive in Sun City.

Driver safety classes at Banner Olive Branch
SUN CITY, Ariz. (Sept. 27, 2011) To recognize and thank veterans for their dedication and commitment to service, AARP Driver Safety Program is offering a free classroom course to ALL veterans and their spouses

Banner Olive Branch Senior Center offers $2 breakfasts
SUN CITY, Ariz. (Sept. 24, 2011) Beginning Wednesday Oct. 5, Banner Olive Branch Senior Center will offer breakfast every Wednesday to all members of the community - for a suggested contribution of $2 per person.

Researchers secure large grant for Parkinson's study
SUN CITY, Ariz. (Sept. 24, 2011) — The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) announced today an $8 million, five-year grant to support a “National Brain and Tissue Resource for Parkinson’s Disease and Related Disorders”, awarded to Banner Sun Health Research Institute (BSHRI) and Mayo Clinic Arizona.

Don't Put Yourself or Loved Ones at Risk: Get a Flu Shot
PHOENIX (Sept. 23, 2011) – It doesn’t need to be wintertime for the flu symptoms to start. That’s why it’s not too early to get a head start on protecting yourself from the virus with a flu shot.

Two pediatricians open clinic with Banner Health
GREELEY, Colo. (Sept. 23, 2011) – Banner Health welcomes two pediatricians who will see patients in the new Banner Health Clinic–Pediatrics. The clinic opens Oct. 10.

North Colorado Medical Center offers depression screenings
GREELEY, Colo. (Sept. 22, 2011) – North Colorado Medical Center Behavioral Health staff will offer screenings for National Depression Screening Day on Oct. 6 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at their clinic at 928 12th St. in Greeley, CO 80631.

North Colorado Medical Center’s Walk to Remember on Oct. 16
GREELEY, Colo. (Sept. 22, 2011) – North Colorado Medical Center and the Monfort Family Birth Center have organized the 11th annual Walk to Remember for families who have experienced the loss of a baby. The walk and a special balloon release is 2 p.m.-4 p.m. Oct. 16 at Glenmere Park at Glenmere Boulevard and 16th Avenue in Greeley.

Banner Olive Branch offers Medicare assistance
SUN CITY, Ariz. (Sept. 22, 2011) Banner Olive Branch Senior Center has trained benefits assistance counselors available to assist you navigate through your Medicare plan options for 2012.

Banner Health named one of Arizona's most admired companies
PHOENIX (Sept. 20, 2010) – Banner Health, one of the state’s largest employers, has been named as one of Arizona's Most Admired Companies for the second year in a row.

Registration open for Loveland Turkey Trot
LOVELAND, Colo. (Sept. 19, 2011) --- The 10th Annual Loveland Turkey Trot will be held on Thanksgiving morning – a great way to start the Thanksgiving Holiday.

Banner Sun Health Research Institute researcher publishes new book
SUN CITY, Ariz. (Sept 14, 2011) — Lauded as “an invaluable resource for every practicing psychiatrist,” a new medical reference book by Sandra Jacobson, MD, Clinical Investigator at Banner Sun Health Research Institute has just been released by American Psychiatric Publishing.

EMCH Foundation Scholarship awarded
BRUSH, Colo. (Sept. 13, 2011) — The East Morgan County Hospital (EMCH) Foundation announced the 2011 Scholarship has been awarded to a student working in the Brush area who is continuing her medical education. Brandy Rogers, a certified nursing assistant (CNA) at EMCH, received a $500 scholarship to advance her medical training.

Banner Boswell hosts free colorectal health seminar on Oct. 11
SUN CITY, Ariz. (Sept. 13, 2011) – Talking about colorectal problems can be uncomfortable and even embarrassing. But bringing up concerns with a physician can not only answer your questions but possibly help save your life. That's why Banner Boswell Medical Center is offering a free seminar on colorectal health from 9 to 11 a.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 11.

Looking for vendors for Banner Olive Branch Senior Center
SUN CITY, Ariz. (Sept.12, 2011) Banner Olive Branch Senior Center in Sun City is scheduling their 2nd Annual Winter Craft Fair to be held Wednesday, Nov. 2 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the patio at 11250 N 107th Ave., Sun City.

McKee Masters Golf Tournament raises over $30,000 for Stepping Stones program
LOVELAND, Colo. (Sept. 12, 2011) --- The Stepping Stones Adult Day Program at McKee Medical Center will receive more than $30,000 thanks to the 116 golfers who took part in the McKee Masters Golf Tournament on Sept. 9 at Mariana Butte Golf Course. All monies from golfer registrations and sponsorships go to the beneficiary.

Cooking classes at Banner Olive Branch Senior Center
SUN CITY, Ariz. (Sept. 10, 2011) – Banner Olive Branch Senior Center will resume its monthly cooking series in September to offer Sun City residents delicious, affordable and easy-to-prepare meals. The first class will be held at 1 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 26.

NCMC event will focus on spiritual care across different cultures
GREELEY, Colo. (Sept. 9, 2011) — North Colorado Medical Center has organized its first conference sponsored by the NCMC Foundation and the Will Rothman Family Chaplaincy to look at spiritual care across different cultures.

Banner Health clinic focuses on spine and sports pain
GREELEY, Colo. (Sept. 9, 2011) – Banner Health broadens its scope of services in Northern Colorado with the addition of a specialist to focus on spine and sports pain.

2011 Candlelight Capers to Benefit Banner Good Samaritan Poison and Drug Information Center
PHOENIX (Sept. 8, 2011) — For over 32 years, hundreds of thousands of Arizonans have avoided trips to hospital emergency rooms by making a single phone call – to the Banner Good Samaritan Poison and Drug Information Center (1-800-222-1222).

NCMC volunteers present area students with scholarships
GREELEY,Colo. (Sept. 1, 2011) — The volunteers of North Colorado Medical Center recently awarded $36,000 in scholarships to high school and college students who have made a valuable contribution to the community through their volunteer service at the hospital.

McKee Masters Golf Tournament Benefits Stepping Stones Adult Day Program at McKee
LOVELAND, Colo. (Aug. 31, 2011) --- The McKee Masters Golf Tournament will be held Friday, Sept. 9 at Mariana Butte Golf Course in Loveland. Players will tee off for 18 holes at 8 a.m. in a scramble format.

New pulmonologist joins Banner Health’s team of specialty physicians in Greeley
GREELEY, Colo. (Aug. 30, 2011) – Banner Health announces the addition of a new pulmonologist to North Colorado Pulmonary and Critical Care Center at North Colorado Medical Center in Greeley.

Giovanna Garcia, MD, joins Banner Internal Medicine Greeley
GREELEY, Colo. (August 29, 2011) – Banner Internal Medicine Greeley is pleased to announce the addition of internal medicine physician Giovanna Garcia, MD, to its team of medical professionals.

Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center’s Stroke Program Strikes Gold
PHOENIX (Aug. 26, 2011) – Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center has been awarded the “Get With The Guidelines Stroke Gold Performance Achievement Award” by the American Stroke and American Heart Associations for its success in treating stroke patients.

Fine named among top 100 most influential people in healthcare
PHOENIX (Aug. 23, 2011) – Banner Health President and CEO Peter S. Fine is listed among the nation’s ‘100 Most Influential People in Healthcare,’ released Monday by Modern Healthcare, a weekly business publication covering the health care industry.

Four Banner associates honored as Health Care Heroes
PHOENIX (Aug. 19, 2011) - Four Banner Health associates were honored by The Phoenix Business Journal as “Health Care Heroes” for their outstanding work and contributions to the community.

Riley Hale, MD, joins Banner Medical Group
GREELEY, Colo. (Aug. 22, 2011) – Banner Mountain Vista Orthopaedic Medical Clinic welcomes orthopedic surgeon Riley W. Hale, MD, to the staff.

Birdies on the Green golf event raises $6,000 for Stepping Stones Adult Day Program
LOVELAND, Colo. (Aug. 19, 2011) --- Birdies on the Green raised $6000 for the Stepping Stones Adult Day Program at McKee Medical Center. Birdies on the Green, a women-only golfing event designed with the non-golfing woman in mind, was held Aug. 18 at the Olde Course in Loveland.

Banner Health wins top leadership award in health care
PHOENIX (Aug. 18, 2011) – Banner Health has received the 2011 “Top Leadership Teams in Healthcare” Award by the national trade publication, HealthLeaders, a leading provider of health care business information for industry executives.

Health baby fair & speed dating docs
SUN CITY WEST, Ariz. (Aug. 17, 2011) -- Would you date your doctor? Maybe not, but taking the time to interview an obstetrician before choosing him or her to deliver your baby is a wise thing to do. A speed dating event, from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 24, at Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center in Sun City West, gives expecting parents the chance to see if their childbirth philosophy and needs align with prospective obstetricians.

East Morgan County Hospital schedules blood drive for Aug 24
BRUSH, Colo. (Aug. 17, 2011) – East Morgan County Hospital will be holding a blood drive on August 24 at the hospital. “Donating blood gives back to our community and helps our patients when they need a transfusion,” said Cindy Nestor, Interim Laboratory Manager at EMCH. “On average a transfusion for a patient will require two units.”

East Morgan County Hospital welcomes Hospitalists
BRUSH, Colo. (Aug. 15, 2011) – East Morgan County Hospital has implemented a full-time hospitalist program for inpatient care. Hospitalists are board certified or board eligible physicians who have chosen to specialize in the care of hospitalized patients.

Bob Edwards named Banner Lassen CEO
SUSANVILLE, Calif. (Aug. 10, 2011) - Jim Ferando, Banner Health Western Region president, has named Bob Edwards as the new chief executive officer for Banner Lassen Medical Center. Edwards has served since January 2008 as the CEO of Ogallala Community Hospital in Ogallala, Neb., another Banner Health facility. He will join the hospital team in Susanville on Monday, Sept. 12.

Bob Edwards leaving OCH for new CEO role
OGALLALA, Neb. (Aug. 10, 2011) - Bob Edwards, chief executive officer at Ogallala Community Hospital, will be leaving that post to assume a new CEO role at Banner Lassen Medical Center in Susanville, Calif., on Sept. 12. Julie Klein, associate administrator for Banner’s North Colorado Medical Center in Greeley, Colo., will serve as interim CEO at OCH while a search for a permanent CEO is conducted.

Certified Nurse Midwives celebrate new office location with open house
LOVELAND, Colo. (Aug. 8, 2011) – Please join the staff of Banner Women First Certified Nurse Midwives on Aug. 25 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at an open house to celebrate the clinic’s new location.

Volunteers are in need at Banner Boswell Medical Center
SUN CITY, Ariz. (Aug. 5, 2011) – Volunteering is a great way to meet people, learn new skills and feel good about making a difference in your community.

Learn to treat incontinence with pelvic floor rehab at McKee event
LOVELAND, Colo. (Aug. 4, 2011) – There’s no need to hide your head in the sand when it comes to incontinence. Hear from two physical therapists about what you can do to improve your quality of life and treat incontinence using pelvic floor rehabilitation.

Banner Health named one of top 25 connected hospitals
PHOENIX (Aug. 3, 2011) — Health Imaging and IT magazine has recognized nonprofit Banner Health as being one of the Top 25 Connected facilities in the country -- for the second time in a row.

Internal medicine specialist expands service to Eaton
EATON, Colo. (Aug. 2, 2011) — Eaton Family Medical Clinic is pleased to announce the addition of an internal medicine specialist to the clinic.

Three Banner hospitals offer new brain scan for Parkinson’s
SUN CITY, Ariz. (Aug. 1, 2011) – A new brain imaging scan at three Banner Health hospitals is helping doctors more accurately diagnose Parkinson’s disease, allowing patients to begin treatment earlier and avoid possible misdiagnoses of other conditions with similar symptoms.

Banner Health completes electronic medical record
GREELEY, Colo. (Aug. 1, 2011) — This week North Colorado Medical Center in Greeley put into place one of the last components to give all Colorado Banner Health hospitals a comprehensive, enhanced electronic medical record (EMR) system.

Loveland Little Sprint attracts 175 participants
ELAND, Colo. (July 27, 2011) --- One-hundred-seventy-five triathletes participated in the Loveland Little Sprint Triathlon held Saturday, July 23, raising $8,100. One hundred percent of registration fees and sponsorships benefited the KidSelf Pediatric Therapy Program at McKee.

McKee Cancer Center expansion will offer enhanced radiation treatments
LOVELAND (July 26, 2011) – McKee Medical Center has announced plans to invest more than $9 million to expand the McKee Cancer Center with new services and technology to improve patient care.

Banner Boswell opens new area for 24/7 heart monitoring
SUN CITY, Ariz. (July 25, 2011) – Patients who need heart monitoring are resting easier at Banner Boswell Medical Center in Sun City thanks to the opening of a new Central Monitor Station.

Free tours are available of state's largest Emergency department available Aug. 6
MESA, Ariz. (July 25, 2011) -- Banner Desert and Cardon Children’s Medical Centers are offering a tour of their new Emergency Center, the largest of its kind in Arizona, with 103 treatment bays for timely care.

Banner Good Samaritan receives national recogniton in US News and World Report rankings
PHOENIX (July 19, 2011) – Four Banner Health hospitals were recognized for multiple clinical distinctions in U.S. News & World Report's Phoenix-metropolitan area Best Hospitals rankings. Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center was ranked in four national specialties.

Teens spend summer vacation giving back at Banner Boswell, Banner Del E. Webb
SUN CITY, Ariz. (July 18, 2011) – More than 85 teenagers are giving back to the community this summer, and in return learning valuable skills that will last a lifetime. The teens are part of an eight-week volunteer program offered to students 14 to 18 years old at nonprofit Banner Boswell and Banner Del E. Webb medical centers.

KidSelf hosts first ever Cowboy Cookout fundraiser
LOVELAND, Colo. (July 13, 2011) – KidSelf Pediatric Therapy Program at McKee Medical Center will hold its first ever Cowboy Cookout at Sylvan Dale Guest Ranch in Loveland, Saturday, Aug. 20 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Banner receives Most Wired award
PHOENIX (July 11, 2011) -- Banner Health has again been named one of Health Care's Most Wired companies for 2011 by Hospitals and Health Networks magazine.

Banner Boswell earns national award for stroke care
SUN CITY, Ariz. (July 11, 2011) – Banner Boswell Medical Center has earned the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s Get With The Guidelines–Stroke Silver Quality Achievement Award for its work in “raising the standard of stroke care” by ensuring that stroke patients consistently receive care that follows nationally accepted standards and recommendations.

Banner Health Foundation receives Walmart donation
PHOENIX (July 8, 2011) – The Walmart Foundation Arizona State Giving Program today announced the donation of $495,000 to 14 nonprofit organizations throughout Arizona, including $25,000 to the Banner Health Foundation.

Banner Boswell screening offers profile of heart health
SUN CITY, Ariz. (July 8, 2011) – Is your heart healthy? Not sure? Get to know your heart better with a Healthy Heart Check assessment at Banner Boswell Medical Center, 10401 W. Thunderbird Blvd. in Sun City.

New Chief Nurse Officer joins Ogallala Community Hospital
OGALLALA, Neb. (July 6, 2011) – Lori Schoenholz, RN, BSN, has been named the Chief Nursing Officer for Banner Health Ogallala Community Hospital.

Community Hospital welcomes new CNO
TORRINGTON, Wyo. (July 5, 2011) - Community Hospital is pleased to introduce new Chief Nursing Officer Tadd Greenfield.

Breast cancer survivorship study to be piloted at NCMC
GREELEY, Colo. (July 1, 2011) — A new research study piloted at North Colorado Medical Center will help breast cancer survivors transition back to life after treatment.

Windsor pharmacy plans open house and medication review
(July 1, 2011) – Pill sorters come in all shapes and colors, and they help you keep medications in the right location. But they don’t provide the answers you need about the drugs you take.

Banner Health to limit early deliveries in support of fetal development
GREELEY, Colo. (June 30, 2011) — Beginning July 18, Banner Health hospitals including North Colorado Medical Center in Greeley and McKee Medical Center in Loveland, will no longer schedule elective cesarean sections and labor inductions before 39 weeks of pregnancy unless specific medical criteria can be demonstrated.

Banner Health recieves grant
PHOENIX (June 28, 2011) — Banner Health today announced that it has received $35,000 in grant funding from the Cardinal Health Foundation to strengthen patient-safety practices.

North Colorado Medical Center nursing leader joins association panel
GREELEY, Colo. (June 27, 2011) — The chief nursing officer at North Colorado Medical Center has been elected vice chairman of a committee with the American Nurses Credentialing Center.

McKee expands robotic surgery program with second robot, technology
LOVELAND, Colo. (June 23, 2011) – Because of growth in the number of surgeries as well as the number of surgeons wanting to perform those surgeries, McKee Medical Center is expanding its robotic surgery program.

Banner Health supports March of Dimes campaign to limit early deliveries in support of fetal development
PHOENIX (June 23, 2011) -- Beginning July 18, Banner Health, one of the largest nonprofit health systems in the country, will no longer schedule elective cesarean sections and labor inductions before 39 weeks of pregnancy unless specific medical criteria can be demonstrated.

Carmichael leaves East Morgan as CEO; interim CEO named
BRUSH, Colo. (June 23, 2011) – Gavin Carmichael will leave his role as chief executive officer of East Morgan County Hospital on July 8 to become chief operating officer of Providence Physician Services Organization in Anchorage, Alaska.

North Colorado Family Medicine resident receives national honor
GREELEY, Colo. (June 22, 2011) — A second-year family medicine resident from Greeley has been awarded the 2011 American Academy of Family Physicians Award for Excellence in Graduate Medical Education.

Banner Research fills new COO position
PHOENIX (June 20, 2011) — Banner Research today announced the appointment of Cynthia Guinn as chief operating officer of Banner Research, reporting to CEO Eric Reiman, effective June 27, 2011.

Two area Banner Health hospitals receive HealthGrades awards
GREELEY, Colo. (June 20, 2011) —North Colorado Medical Center in Greeley and McKee Medical Center in Loveland have been ranked among the top 5 percent in the country for emergency care, according to HealthGrades®.

Cardiac Alert begins at McKee to improve treatment of heart attacks
LOVELAND, Colo. (June 20, 2011) – McKee Medical Center has instituted a Cardiac Alert program to ensure Loveland area patients experiencing a heart attack get the quality care they need in the shortest time possible.

EMCH receives donation
BRUSH (Jun. 16, 2011) – Morgan County Board of Realtors donated stuffed animals to the emergency department at East Morgan County Hospital. Pictured with emergency room nurses are:

Sterling Regional MedCenter offering free mammograms
STERLING, Colo. (June 16, 2011) Sterling Regional MedCenter is offering free mammograms through the Tough Enough to Wear Pink campaign with the Logan County Fair and Rodeo. Financial assistance is available for those with limited or no insurance. Individuals must meet the following criteria:

Banner Lassen hires CNO
SUSANVILLE, Calif. (June 14, 2011) -- Catherine Harshbarger has been hired as the new chief nursing officer at Banner Lassen Medical Center.

Minick named interim CEO at Banner Lassen
SUSANVILLE, Calif. (June 9, 2011) – Jim Ferando, Western Region President for Banner Health, has announced that Barbara Minick will serve as Interim Chief Executive Officer at Banner Lassen Medical Center.

North Colorado Medical Center hires Medical Staff Services director
GREELEY, Colo. (June 7, 2011) – North Colorado Medical Center announced the addition of Lynn Longner to its leadership team. Longner started in May as the director of Medical Staff Services.

OCH participates in WCRMS disaster prearedness drill
OGALLALA, Neb. (June 7, 2011) – While we can not predict what will happen, the Ogallala Community Hospital is learning from and working with the other hospitals in our region to create a realistic plan for disaster response that anticipates real risks for our area.

Learn about importance of tetanus shots as flood concerns increase
GREELEY, Colo. (June 6, 2011) — With concerns growing over potential flooding this summer, people need to be aware of health risks related to tetanus, according to Banner Health physician Steven Kalt, MD.

EMCH schedules blood drive for June 22
BRUSH, Colo. (June 6, 2011) – East Morgan County Hospital will be holding a blood drive on June 22 at the hospital. “Donating blood gives back to our community and helps our patients when they need a transfusion,” said Cindy Nestor, Interim Laboratory Manager at EMCH. “On average a transfusion for a patient will require two units.”

BFM offers sports physicals
BRUSH, Colo. (June 6, 2011) – The provider team at Brush Family Medicine is offering sports physicals to middle school and high school students in Morgan County and Woodrow. The cost of a physical has been reduced for this special event.

McKee to open labyrinth experience to the disabled
LOVELAND, Colo. (June 3, 2011) – McKee Medical Center will dedicate a hand labyrinth along the hospital’s Wellness Walk to extend the healing benefits of the walking labyrinth to those with limited mobility.

Diabetes Free A1C Clinic at Washakie Medical Center
WORLAND, Wyo. (June 1, 2011) - Diabetes management involves many tests and screenings, but none is more important than the hemoglobin A1C test. This test tells the doctor how well you have controlled your diabetes over the last two or three months. And that helps you and your doctor know if you are controlling your diabetes successfully.

McKee Medical Center awards $20,000 in health care scholarships
LOVELAND, Colo. (May 31, 2011) – McKee Medical Center announced 11 recipients of health career student and adult scholarships for 2011.

Let’s talk gluten-freely! Experts discuss celiac disease and nutrition
LOVELAND, Colo. (May 23, 2011) – McKee Medical Center invites community members to a two-part educational series on celiac disease and what it means to eat gluten free. The sessions take place at McKee Conference and Wellness Center, 2000 Boise Ave., Loveland.

Banner Boswell StrokeCheck event screens more than 125 for stroke risk
SUN CITY, Ariz. (May 20, 2011) – More than 125 community members received free stroke screenings on May 20 during Banner Boswell Medical Center’s annual StrokeCheck. The event at Banner Boswell was part of a Valleywide effort to educate the public about stroke during National Stroke Month.

Research study: You may be as old as you feel
SUN CITY, Ariz. (May 18, 2011) — Researchers at Banner Sun Health Research Institute , a leader in longevity research, recently uncovered a valuable nugget that ties the mind-body connection with quality of life as we age.

Poison center warns against bath salts
PHOENIX (May 18, 2011) — A warning from Valley poison control that the use of synthetic stimulants, known as “bath salts,” is on the rise in Maricopa County. Users are reportedly ingesting the drug to get a high similar to that of cocaine. Exposure calls related to this drug have increased, and the growing trend can be deadly.

Banner Sun Health Research Institute researchers find further evidence linking Alzheimer's to copper and cholesterol
SUN CITY, Ariz.., (May 12, 2011) — A researchers at Banner Sun Health Research Institute has found further evidence linking copper to the increased probability of developing Alzheimer’s disease, according to a study published in the current issue of the International Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, vol. 2011, Article ID 987023.

Banner Thunderbird first hospital in Arizona to use nitrous oxide to partially sedate children
GLENDALE, Ariz. (May 11, 2011) – A medical gas that used to go by the name of “laughing gas,” since it made patients feel slightly euphoric, will soon be used in a limited capacity at Banner Thunderbird Medical Center, which is examining the benefits of the gas on pediatric patients undergoing an uncomfortable medical imaging procedure.

OCH implements iCare for added care to critically ill patients
OGALLALA, Neb. (May 11, 2011) – An advanced, additional layer of care for hospitalized patients in need of Intensive Care now is available at Ogallala Community Hospital. The hospital joins fifteen other Banner Health facilities in providing eICU® technology, but is the only rural facility in western Nebraska currently utilizing this innovative technology

Banner Del E. Webb and CORE Institute team up
SUN CITY WEST, Ariz. (May 6, 2011) – Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center and The CORE Institute have formed “The Banner CORE Center for Orthopedics,” a joint venture for the delivery of innovative, revolutionary orthopedic care based at the nonprofit hospital.

Lobby Lecture: Man vs. Beast
BRUSH, Colo. (May. 5, 2011) – The East Morgan County Hospital emergency department physician, Ned Nixon, MD, invites area residents to join him May 19 for the next Lobby Lecture Series topic: Man vs. Beast.

Trio of physicians share treatment information for continence concerns
LOVELAND, Colo. (April 28, 2011) – Incontinence can be treatable, but often the first hurdle is overcoming fears of talking about the issue with your health care provider.

24th Annual Community Classic Bike Tour May 15 – Early registration ends April 30
LOVELAND, Colo. (April 27, 2011) - Early registration for this 24th Annual Community Classic Bike Tour ends April 30.

North Colorado Medical Center Foundation welcomes new president
GREELEY, Colo. (April 25, 2011) – A man familiar with the Greeley community has returned to lead the North Colorado Medical Center Foundation.

Banner Good Samaritan offering clinical trial for heart disease
PHOENIX (April 14, 2011) — Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center is one of a select group of clinical sites now participating in a new U.S. clinical trial to evaluate a revolutionary treatment for a common heart disease, severe aortic stenosis.

Earth Day: Banner wins healthy hospital award
PHOENIX (April 22, 2011) – Banner Health today – Earth Day – is proud to announce it has received a Healthy Hospital Award from Ascent, a division of Stryker Corp.

40 or younger? You may be at risk for heart disease
MESA, Ariz. (April 22, 2011) – Think heart disease only affects the elderly? You may be surprised to know that heart disease is increasing among people in their 20s, 30s and 40s.

Local high school soccer teams think pink for McKee Cancer Center
LOVELAND, Colo. (April 21, 2011) – Black/red and black/gold gave way to pink during a recent girls soccer game between Loveland and Thompson Valley high schools. The pink-themed game represented collaboration between the two teams to raise $250 for the McKee Cancer Center.

Loveland Community Health Fair set to deliver results Saturday
LOVELAND, Colo. (April 19, 2011) – More than 1,270 individuals had their blood drawn in preparation for the 2011 Loveland Community Health Fair. The 31st Loveland Community Health Fair is April 23 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the McKee Conference and Wellness Center.

Banner Good Samaritan wins award for stroke care
PHOENIX (April 14, 2011) — Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center recently received the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s Get With The Guidelines®-Stroke Gold Quality Achievement Award.

Banner Thunderbird opens new pediatric unit
GLENDALE, Ariz. (April 14, 2011) – Banner Thunderbird Medical Center will open a new 16-bed inpatient pediatric unit in its Children’s Center on April 26 to help ensure there are enough beds to care for an increasing number of children coming to the Glendale hospital for medical treatment.

McKee Women First Certified Nurse-Midwives moves
LOVELAND, Colo. (April 13, 2011) – McKee Women First Certified Nurse-Midwives is relocating the practice to 1647 E. 18th St. just south of McKee Medical Center.

NCMC nurse becomes president of new cardiac nurses association
GREELEY, Colo. (April 13, 2011) — A registered nurse from North Colorado Medical Center was recently named president of the newly formed Rocky Mountain Chapter of the Preventive Cardiovascular Nurses Association.

Certified nurse-midwife joins Banner OB/Gyn Associates in Loveland
LOVELAND, Colo. (April 8, 2011) – Banner OB/Gyn Associates welcomes the addition of a certified nurse-midwife to the practice.

East Morgan County Hospital lifts visitation restrictions
BRUSH, Colo. (April 7, 2011) – East Morgan County Hospital will now allow children ages 12 and under in patient care areas at the hospital. “Due to the decreased local and statewide flu activity over the last month, visitation restrictions have been lifted.

NCMC Foundation Adopt-A-Mom Initiative for First Steps
GREELEY, Colo. (April 6, 2011) - The North Colorado Medical Center Foundation is seeking donations from area businesses and residents for its Adopt-A-Mom Initiative for the First Steps Program. Contributions will provide prenatal, postpartum and parenting services that are client centered and consist of referral, education, case management, advocacy and support.

Banner allergist to begin seeing patients in Greeley clinic
LOVELAND, Colo. (April 8, 2011) – Banner Medical Group now offers specialized care in Greeley for the evaluation and treatment of allergies and immunology.

Relief for thousands with tummy troubles
PHOENIX (April 4, 2011) – It could mean big relief for thousands of Arizonans who are tired of taking pills for acid reflux. Banner Estrella Medical Center general surgeon Jon King, MD, and gastroenterologist Hector Rodriguez-Luna, MD, want to share the news about a new incision-free procedure to treat Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD).

Cardon Children's to host child abuse seminar
Cardon Children’s Medical Center will host an educational seminar on April 16 to discuss the medical and legal implications of child abuse.

Eight Banner hospitals in Top 12 of U.S. News and World Report for metro Phoenix
PHOENIX (March 29, 2011) -- Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center is number one, and seven other Banner hospitals in metro Phoenix are in the top 12 of the U.S. News & World Report's first-ever Best Hospitals metro area rankings, available online at www.usnews.com/hospitals.

Lobby Lecture: Battle of the Bulge, Hernia
BRUSH, Colo. (March 28, 2011) – The East Morgan County Hospital surgeons, Thomas Bryant, M.D. and Lawrence Schoelkopf, M.D., invite area residents to join them Apr. 12 for the next Lobby Lecture Series topic: Battle of the Bulge - Hernia.

Banner Boswell implements new telemedicine technology to improve care of critically ill patients
SUN CITY, Ariz. (March 28, 2011) – An advanced, additional layer of care for hospitalized patients in Intensive Care now is available at Banner Boswell Medical Center in Sun City. The hospital joins 13 other Banner Health facilities in providing eICU® technology, completing the network of Banner hospitals in the Valley that provide this innovative approach to care.

Skyline Center for Health seeks volunteers to greet guests
LOVELAND, Colo. (March 25, 2011) – Volunteers interested in providing assistance to guests and patients at Skyline Center for Health in Loveland have a new opportunity.

McKee Medical Center welcomes new associate administrator
LOVELAND, Colo. (March 25, 2011) – McKee Medical Center welcomes Leslie Martin as the new Associate Administrator.

Banner Boswell honors milestone contributions of volunteers
SUN CITY, Ariz. (March 24, 2011) – In 2010, volunteers at Banner Boswell Medical Center in Sun City gave over 253,000 hours of their time – the equivalent of more than 28 years. The non-profit hospital recognized some of these volunteers Wednesday at a service awards presentation honoring 161 of the 1,601 active volunteers.

North Colorado Medical Center welcomes medical oncologist
GREELEY, Colo. (March 22, 2011) – North Colorado Medical Center welcomes a new medical oncologist to the Cancer Institute.

Free community event on April 21 explains surgical treatment for Parkinson’s
SUN CITY, Ariz. (March 18, 2011) – Banner Boswell Medical Center invites the community to a free public symposium on deep brain stimulation (DBS) from 9 to 11 a.m. Thursday, April 21.

Banner Boswell to host Joint Club open house April 18
SUN CITY, Ariz. (March 16, 2011) – Considering joint replacement? Wondering what your options are? If you’re thinking about joint replacement surgery, Banner Boswell Medical Center invites you to a free open house of the Joint Club at 10 a.m. on Monday, April 18.

Celebrate National Health Care Decisions Day
LOVELAND, Colo. (March 15, 2011) – McKee Medical Center is joining national, state and community organizations in a massive effort to highlight the importance of advance health care decision-making. This effort has culminated in the formal designation of April 16 as National Healthcare Decisions Day.

Local residents learn benefits of exercise at free class hosted by Banner Boswell
SUN CITY, Ariz. (March 14, 2011) – More than 50 Valley residents learned how exercise can benefit patients with Parkinson’s disease at a free class Sunday hosted by Banner Boswell Medical Center in Sun City.

Banner to bring primary care services to Verrado
PHOENIX (March 13, 2011) -- Health care is an essential community need, especially for communities that are growing. Banner Health will begin construction later this summer on a neighborhood health center in Verrado, where Banner owns 60 acres.

Chapel remodel highlights role of Banner Boswell’s Spiritual Care providers
SUN CITY, Ariz. (March 11, 2011) – After several months of remodeling, Banner Boswell Medical Center's Meditation Chapel has reopened inside the hospital's main entrance to more fully reflect the diversity of the spiritual culture of patients, visitors and staff.

Banner Boswell World Health Day Celebration encourages health empowerment
SUN CITY, Ariz. (March 11, 2011) – Banner Boswell Medical Center invites the community to learn more about their health at a free event celebrating World Health Day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thursday, April 7.

McKee Medical Center Foundation honors community clinic’s founder
LOVELAND, Colo. (March 10, 2011) – Emergency physician Scott Sundheim, MD, received the McKee Community Health Award on Thursday from the McKee Medical Center Foundation for his work to open a free health clinic in Loveland.

EMCH hosts annual 9Health Fair April 16
BRUSH, Colo. (March 3, 2011) – Own Your Health. The 9Health Fair encourages people to take charge of their health. This year’s health fair offers 15 free and five low-cost health screening and education to help you keep your health in check.

North Colorado Medical Center honored as 'Banner’s Best of the Best'
GREELEY, Colo. (March 3, 2011) – Banner Health has awarded North Colorado Medical Center Banner’s Best of the Best Award for outstanding performance in the health care system. NCMC is the only hospital in Banner’s Western Region to receive the award.

Registration Open for Loveland Little Sprint Triathlon Set for July 23
LOVELAND, Colo. (March 1, 2011) --- The Loveland Little Sprint Triathlon is scheduled for Saturday, July 23 beginning at noon at Mountain View High School in Loveland. Organizers of the triathlon, for kids ages 14 and under, hope to motivate area youth through sport to lead an active and healthy lifestyle. Participants compete in age-appropriate distances with an emphasis on fun and safety. All participants will receive a t-shirt and medal. This year’s race will be capped at 250 participants.

Banner MD Anderson selects Radiation Oncology Section Chief
PHOENIX – (Feb. 28, 2011) The appointment of Matthew D. Callister, MD as radiation oncology section chief for the Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center is the first of seven section chief appointments for the specialty medical center, scheduled to open in September of 2011 on the Banner Gateway Medical Center campus.

Healthy Beginnings prenatal program to celebrate 20 years
LOVELAND, Colo. (Feb. 24, 2011) – McKee Medical Center and Loveland’s Healthy Beginnings want to reconnect with past participants of the program for a 20th anniversary celebration.

NCMC’s Heart Health education series kicks off Tuesday, March 1
GREELEY, Colo. (Feb. 24, 2011) — North Colorado Medical Center invites you to take part in the 2011 Heart Health for a Lifetime educational series. The first class “How can a healthy lifestyle improve heart health?” is Tuesday, March 1.

Day of Dance events aim to create healthier communities
GREELEY, Colo. (Feb. 22, 2011) — North Colorado Medical Center and Spirit of Women invite the community to Day of Dance for Your Health on Saturday, Feb. 26.

OCH wins 4 Banners Best Awards
OGALALLA, Neb. (Feb. 23, 2010) – Banner Health has awarded Ogallala Community Hospital four Banner’s Best Awards for meeting and exceeding benchmarks on quality health care initiatives set by Banner Health’s senior management team. Awards were presented during the 9th annual virtual Banner's 2011 Leadership Conference held Feb. 23.

Banner Health announces new emergency department contract
GREELEY, Colo. (Feb. 22, 2011) — Banner Health has announced that, effective May 22 2011, it will contract with TeamHealth, a national organization heavily focused in the provision of physician hospital-based services, to serve in the management role of physicians and the care they provide in NCMC’s Emergency Department. Therefore, Banner Health has also informed North Colorado Emergency Physicians, P.C., that the group’s contract to manage physician services in NCMC’s Emergency Department will end at that time.

City of Maricopa partners with Banner
PHOENIX (Feb. 23, 2011) – Residents in the rapidly growing city of Maricopa, Ariz., and in surrounding areas will have convenient access to a major primary care center by mid-2012. The center, which is the first major medical facility in the community, is the result of a public/private partnership between the city of Maricopa and Banner Health approved by the Maricopa City Council on Tuesday.

Celebrate Heart Month with a tour of McKee’s Cardiovascular Services
LOVELAND, Colo. (Feb. 18, 2011) – In recognition of National Heart Month, Cardiovascular Services at McKee Medical Center invites the public to an open house for the department.

Banner Health introduces new Safe Surgery Process
PHOENIX (Feb. 17, 2010) – Banner Health facilities are implementing a new policy designed to reduce preventable surgical errors. The new “Safe Surgery Process,” introduced in several of Banner’s Western Region hospitals in 2009-’10 and now in place at Banner Estrella Medical Center, Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center and Banner Boswell Medical Center, emphasizes a standardized practice to slow the process and focus the entire surgical team’s efforts onto the patient.

Pulmonologists and sleep disorders center plan for new location
GREELEY, Colo. (Feb. 16, 2011) — The staff and physicians at North Colorado Pulmonary and Critical Care Center in Greeley are moving effective March 7.

Clinical administrative director named for Banner MD Anderson
PHOENIX (Feb. 15, 2011) Vicki Koceja, RN-BC, BSN, MBA, OCN, FAAMA, PhD, has been named the clinical administrative director for the Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center, opening this September on the Banner Gateway campus.

Sign ups for Loveland Community Health Fair screenings start March 7
LOVELAND, Colo. (Feb. 14, 2011) – Registration for blood screenings and memory screenings as part of the 2011 Loveland Community Health Fair begins March 7.

McKee Medical Center accepts applications for scholarships
LOVELAND, Colo. (Feb. 2, 2011) – Adult learner scholarships for careers in health care are available from McKee Medical Center. All adult learners who reside in the Loveland and Berthoud area are eligible to apply.

NCMC invites community to Dinner with a Specialist
GREELEY (Feb. 11, 2011) — North Colorado Medical Center has planned speaking engagements in the Dinner with a Specialist series.

NCMC Foundation Gala raises over $170,000 for NCMC Cancer Institute
GREELEY, Colo. (Feb. 10, 2011) - More than 500 people attended the 22nd annual NCMC Foundation Gala, Le Grande Cirque, presented by Noble Energy at the Embassy Suites Loveland Hotel. The event raised more than $170,000 net to support the Cancer Institute at North Colorado Medical Center.

Valley nurses using a spoonful of peppermint, sage, olive oil and lavender to help patients feel better
PHOENIX (Feb. 10, 2011) – Would you like to receive aromatherapy during your stay? This might sound like a question you would be asked when checking into a spa or resort, but one Valley hospital is asking patients this very question—and getting a positive response.

North Colorado Medical Center offers Conductorcise for Heart Month
GREELEY, Colo. (Feb. 7, 2011) – In recognition of Heart Month in February, North Colorado Medical Center’s CardioVascular Institute and North Colorado Spirit of Women present Conductorcise®.

Annual McKee Community Health Award to be presented at
LOVELAND, Colo. (Feb. 3, 2011) --- McKee Thanks will take place Thursday, March 10 at 11:30 a.m. at the McKee Conference and Wellness Center. Formerly known as the Thank You Loveland Luncheon, McKee Thanks will continue in the same tradition of recognizing and thanking the Loveland community for its support of McKee Medical Center with a lunch event.

Banner Health seventh in integrated health systems
PHOENIX, (Feb. 2, 2011) – Banner Health is seventh in the Top 100 Integrated Healthcare Networks in the nation, according to SDI.

Early registration for 2011 Community Classic Bike Tour open through Feb. 4
LOVELAND, Colo. (Feb. 1, 2011) --- The 24th Annual Community Classic Bike Tour is scheduled for Sunday, May 15. This non-competitive, multi-distance bicycle tour travels through the beautiful foothills of Larimer County in Loveland and Fort Collins and is a great training ride preparing cyclists for the numerous summer rides available.

East Morgan County Hospital implements visitor guidelines
BRUSH (Jan. 27, 2011) — East Morgan County Hospital has announced that it is implementing visitor guidelines as a precautionary measure to ensure a safe environment for patients and protect patients, visitors, and employees during the influenza season.

Community support funds women’s diagnostic upgrades at Banner Boswell
SUN CITY, Ariz. (Jan. 26, 2011) – Thanks to generous community contributions through Sun Health Foundation, Banner Boswell Medical Center is enhancing technology in its Women’s Diagnostic Services department to help detect breast cancers in their early stages, when they are most treatable.

New general surgeon joins Banner Health Torrington
TORRINGTON, Wyo. (Jan. 20, 2011) – Banner Health Torrington welcomes Barbara K Miller, MD, a general surgeon who will see patients in the Medical Office Building and perform surgery at Community Hospital.

Six years, 100,000 patients
PHOENIX (Jan. 14, 2011) – Today, Jan. 14, Banner Estrella Medical Center celebrates a sixth year of providing excellent care to residents in the Southwest Valley. The hospital marks an important milestone on its sixth birthday – Banner Estrella has treated more than 100,000 inpatients since opening in 2005.

Banner Boswell names Lisa Frank associate administrator
SUN CITY, Ariz. (Jan. 14, 2011) – Banner Boswell Medical Center in Sun City has named Lisa Frank, RN, an associate administrator following the move of former associate administrator Debbie Flores to CEO at Banner Heart Hospital in Mesa.

Banner Boswell seminar teaches how to reduce heart attack risk
SUN CITY, Ariz. (Jan. 13, 2011) – Banner Boswell Medical Center is celebrating American Heart Month in February with a free community seminar to offer tips on how to reduce your risk of having a heart attack.

Banner Good Samaritan transplant program one of tops in country
PHOENIX, (Jan. 12, 2011) – The Banner Good Samaritan Transplant Center, Arizona’s oldest and most experienced transplant facility, has been recognized by a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as a top performing transplant program.

Painless therapy at Banner Boswell rids woman of months-long vertigo
SUN CITY, Ariz. (Jan. 12, 2011) – Sun City resident Shelby Bearden woke up one morning with severe vertigo. She felt herself spinning out of control and couldn’t get out of bed.

Why heart patients are in love with new procedure at Valley hospital
PHOENIX (Jan. 11, 2011) – Gus Gonzales is no stranger to undergoing cardiac tests and procedures to fight his chronic heart disease. Over the last 19 years, the Tolleson man has had two open heart surgeries, two angioplasties and four stents placed in his heart.

New video resource offers additional help for interpretation
LOVELAND, Colo. (Jan. 11, 2011) – Banner Health hospitals including four facilities in Northern Colorado are implementing new Video Remote Interpretation services to assist communications with patients.

East Morgan County Hospital Schedules Blood Drive
BRUSH, Colo. (Jan. 6, 2011) – East Morgan County Hospital will be holding a blood drive on January 25 at the hospital. “Donating blood gives back to our community and helps our patients when they need a transfusion,” said John Liston, laboratory supervisor at EMCH.

EMCH Blood Drive scheduled for January 25
BRUSH, Colo. (Jan. 6, 2011) – East Morgan County Hospital will be holding a blood drive on January 25 at the hospital. “Donating blood gives back to our community and helps our patients when they need a transfusion,” said John Liston, laboratory supervisor at EMCH. “On average a transfusion for a patient will require two units.”

Seasonal flu restrictions begin at Banner Del E. Webb
SUN CITY WEST, Ariz. (Dec. 29, 2010) – Effective Jan. 3, Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center, 14502 W. Meeker Blvd., Sun City West, is implementing visitor restrictions to protect our patients, visitors and employees during this influenza season.