Tag Archives: Metro Health

It is official: Wyoming is now the home of University of Michigan Health-West

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, Health, Non-Profits, , ,
Staff are getting new lab coats with the University of Michigan-West on them. (Supplied)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

Today’s the day that Metro Health — University of Michigan Health’s name officially changes to University of Michigan Health – West.

The new name, announced earlier this year, serves two purpose. It describes the organization’s role as part of the state’s top-ranked health system, University of Michigan Health. And it emphasizes a focus on West Michigan, where the organization had been working to advance healthcare for eight decades.

Peter Hahn, MD, MBA, president and CEO of Metro Health – University of Michigan Health (Supplied)

Visible changes will be gradual as physicians and staff receive new lab coats and uniforms, and correspondence and signage are updated for multiple sites across West Michigan. The transition is expected to continue into 2022. Throughout the process, the experience for patients will be seamless. Patients will not need to change anything in the way they connect with services.

“University of Michigan Health-West will have the same progressive, patient-focused culture as when we were known as Metro Health or Metropolitan Hospital or Grand Rapids Osteopathic Hospital,” said Dr. Peter Hahn, president and CEO, University of Michigan Health-West. “Our founding physicians would be proud of our identity today, as part of one of the world’s greatest health systems.”

Metro Health was found in 1942 as the Grand Rapids Osteopathic Hospital with a home on Lake Drive converted to serve the new facility. In 1957, the hospital moved to Boston Street in Grand Rapids. In 1985, the hospital’s name was changed to Metropolitan Hospital.

In 2003, construction began on the the Metro Health Village in Wyoming and in 2005 the hospital changed its name to Metro Health.In 2007, the Metro Health Village was open and two years later, the hospital began relationships with the University of Michigan Health in several areas: cancer, neurosciences, pulmonology, cardiology, endocrinology, pediatric cardiology and pediatric endocrinology.

The former Metro Health became the premier affiliate of University Michigan Health on Dec. 15, 2016.

“As we approach the fifth anniversary of the affiliation, the name change reminds us of what our relationship with University of Michigan Health has made possible,” said Hahn. “Sept. 27 will become another important milestone of our long, proud legacy of innovation, compassion and excellence.”

Gradual changes will take place with new signage and other details. (Supplied)

Recent years have see the addition of multiple services and capabilities, including more outpatient care sites, certification as a comprehensive stroke center, and groundbreaking regional partnerships to advance cancer and cardiovascular care. Earlier this year, the state grand approval to launch Michigan’s first new open-heart surgery program in nearly 20 years.

 

“These accomplishment are bringing world-class care close to home for the patients we serve across West Michigan,” Hahn said. “This really is a testament to the dedicated staff across our organization, as well as visionary leadership through the years that made us who we are today. Together, they have set the stage for an even brighter future as University of Michigan Health-West.”

The 208-bed acute-care osteopathic teaching hospital serves 250,000 patients and 61,500 emergency patients a year, with more than 500 physicians on staff. UM Health-West operates 30 neighborhood outpatient centers and offices in West Michigan. 

With agreement in place, Metro Health begins work to offer new cardiovascular services

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, , , ,
Metro Health – University of Michigan Health, which will soon become University of Michigan – West, will be adding cardiovascular services with a new agreement between the health facility and Mercy Health Saint Mary’s and Mercy Health Muskegon. (Supplied)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

Work is underway at Metro Health – University of Michigan Health Hospital campus in Wyoming to accommodate new cardiovascular services now that a joint operating agreement has been finalized.

Peter Hahn, MD, MBA, president and CEO of Metro Health – University of Michigan Health (Supplied)

On July 21, Metro Health (which is becoming University of Michigan Health – West), Mercy Health Saint Mary’s, and Mercy Health Muskegon finalized the agreement to form the Cardiovascular Network of West Michigan. Under this agreement, the network will be providing advance cardiovascular services such as coronary artery bypass surgery, cardiac valve repair or replacement, and repair for birth defects. The network also will utilize the clinical expertise of University of Michigan Health’s Frankel Cardiovascular Center, one of the nation’s highest-rated centers for cardiology and heart surgery, and the No. 1-rated program in the state. The services will be offered at Metro Health.

Dr. Peter Hahn, CEO of Metro Health – University of Michigan Health, said the network is envisioned as the region’s leading program for open-heart, structural heart and advanced electrophysiology services.

“This will show what is possible through innovative regional collaboration, working in tandem with one of the highest-ranked heart programs in the nation, University of Michigan Health,” Hahn said.

Network partners have selected key leadership to advance their plans, which include expanding open- heart surgery availability in the Grand Rapids market, adding choice to the largest population center in the state currently with only a single open-heart program.

The network’s inaugural executive director will be Dr. Himanshu J. Patel, a U-M cardiac surgeon, Joe D. Morris Collegiate Professor of Cardiac Surgery and Section Head of Adult Cardiac Surgery at the Frankel Cardiovascular Center. The administrative director will be Kristine Todd, clinical service director for heart and vascular services at Mercy Health Saint Mary’s. The network also announced the appointment of two associate medical directors: Dr. Matthew Sevensma of Metro Health – University of Michigan Health, and Dr. Eugene Chung of Michigan Medicine.

Dr. Himanshu J. Patel, executive director for the Cardiovascular Network of West Michigan

Patel said the network builds on a strong history of cardiovascular collaboration each of the partners has established with University of Michigan Health.

“This initiative is based on each partner’s overarching goal of providing not only the highest quality care, but also choice for the patients we serve in west Michigan,” Patel said. “To accomplish this goal, for the fastest-growing part of our state we will also leverage the rich expertise already present at University of Michigan’s Frankel Cardiovascular Center.”

Physicians will confer on cases in a collaborative approach. This is similar to the tumor boards established by the Cancer Network of West Michigan, which the same partners established last year to provide broader regional access to advanced, state-of-the-art, comprehensive diagnosis, treatment and support.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services earlier this year issued a certificate of need authorizing open-heart procedures at the Wyoming site. Later phases of the network’s plans call for a dedicated facility.

All hospital providers and staff will remain employed by their respective health systems, and no staff reductions will take place as a result of this agreement.

Metro Health board approves new name: University of Michigan-West

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, , ,
Metro Health – University of Michigan Health has changed its name to University of Michigan Health-West. (WKTV)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

With nearly five years of expanding achievements, technology, and capabilities as an affiliate of the University of Michigan Health, Metro Health officials announced that the facility will adopt a a new name, University of Michigan Health-West.

“The new name is a natural next step and our teams are proud of the role we play as part of one of the world’s most respected health systems,” said CEO Dr. Peter Hahn. 

Peter Hahn, MD, MBA, president and CEO of Metro Health – University of Michigan Health (Supplied)

The new name was unanimously approved by the Metro Health Board of Directors on June 8, 2021. 

“As we have done at every stage in our history, we must ensure our name reflects our expanding capabilities,” said Bill Barkeley, Chairman of the Metro Health Board of Directors. “This is one of the most significant points in our trajectory. Our name should reflect this.” 

Recent accomplishments include development of a comprehensive stroke center, authorization for an open-heart surgery partnership, and back-to-back top ratings for safety.

“This new name is a better reflection of how this affiliation has grown and signals our path forward,” said Marschall S. Runge, CEO of Michigan Medicine, Dean of the U-M Medical School and Executive Vice President of Medical Affairs for the University of Michigan. “We know that our continued close collaboration, partnerships and expansion of care will benefit the patients of West Michigan. We are proud of where this affiliation has led us and excited about the future.”

Hahn said the affiliation works because it combines the power of one of the world’s most respected academic medical centers with over a century of teaching, research, and patient care – with a nearly 80-year legacy of caring, innovation and progressive health care in West Michigan.

“This is exactly what our founding physicians envisioned when they launched a hospital in a remodeled house back in 1942,” Hahn said. “They wanted to find better ways to focus on patients. For every phase of our history and every name on the front door, that is what we have done.”

 

Founded as Grand Rapids Osteopathic Hospital, the organization was renamed several times: Metropolitan Hospital, Metro Health and, most recently, Metro Health – University of Michigan Health. Each change reflected a significant transition or advancement.

 

“None of the transitions has been more significant than our affiliation with University of Michigan Health,” Hahn said. “Our shared values of caring, innovation, inclusion, integrity and teamwork pay respect to our heritage and set the tone for our future serving West Michigan.”

 

The name change, which will be phased over the next 12 months, reflects not just a closer clinical and operational integration, but also greater alignment in mission, vision and values. The organization’s regional focus will remain governed by a local board of directors.

“The board of directors respects the distinguished history of this organization,” said Metro Health Hospital Board Member Steve Van Andel. “A significant part of that history has been Metro’s ability to innovate while keeping patient care at the forefront. The new name proudly honors that legacy.” 

Full line up set for Metro Health Farm Market opening

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, ,
At the Metro Health Farm Market, not every booth is farm produce – some are fine crafts, coffees and spices, offering shoppers a variety of local goods to choose from.

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

This year’s biggest hurdle for the Metro Farm Market has not been COVID but the cold weather.

“Some of the farmers have told us that due to the cold snap, they may not have as many things when we open,” said Metro Health’s Head of Community Health and Wellness Michelle Rademacher. “These farmers have experienced this before and I know what to do and some of them have been pretty clever at helping to keep their crops going.

But the cold has had some impact, Rademacher said, which means that there may not be as many produce options when the market opens this Thursday at the Metro Health – University of Michigan Wyoming campus, 5900 Byron Center Ave. SW. The market runs from 9 am. – 2 p.m. and entrance is free.

“We are really excited to be able to operate with an almost full market,” Rademacher said, adding the market will be offering punch cards this year and food samplings.

 

Signage at the Metro Health Farm Market will remind patrons of social distancing guidelines. (WKTV)

About 34 vendors will be on-site selling produce and food products, including baked goods and cheeses. Artisan vendors will be providing handmade items such as clothing and wooden toys.

Rademacher said the market will be following all Center for Disease Control guideline as well as the Michigan Farmers Market Associations recommended best practices. Vendors will be safely spaced apart, and there will be clearly marked signage reminding customers to social distance. Hand sanitizing stations will be set up through the market as a reminder to shoppers to sanitize their hands.

Customers are encouraged to let vendors handle touching all products. Rademacher said food sampling will be allowed this year, but samples must be pre-packaged off site.

 

While the market is an open-air environment, vendors will be expected to wear masks and customers are highly encouraged to do the same.

Rademacher said they are excited to bring back the punchcard, which is free. Patrons visiting the market will be able to get the card punch and after five punches, will be able to receive a free market tote bag.

“We are excited to be able to offer a positive experience to our community by having a more normal year for the market that will service their needs,” Rademacher said. “This is a great opportunity for the community to do some healthy shopping, be out in the fresh air and purchase their produce for the week.”

On average, the Metro Health Farm Market sees up to 1,300 people daily during the peak season. as in past years, the market will continue to accept EBT/SNAP dollars and WIC/Senior Fresh coupons.

The Metro Health Farm Market will run each Thursday through early October. For more information, visit www.metrohealth.net. 

Pandemic provides reminder of importance of recognizing signs of stroke

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, , , ,
Because of limited contact with family due to COVID, more people fell victim to strokes, a leading cause of death and disability. (Pxhere.com)

By Jamie Allen
Metro Health – University of Michigan Health

When COVID-19 kept families apart, it meant fewer opportunities for loved ones to notice the signs of stroke. And so, more people fell victim to one of the leading causes of death and disability.

The pandemic contributed in several ways to an increase in fatal strokes in the United States last year, said Dr. Jeffrey Fletcher, who specializes in neurocritical care, neurology and vascular neurology for Metro Health – University of Michigan Health.

Despite the complications of COVID-19, the most important aspect of stroke treatment has never changed, he said: Every second counts to limit the risk of brain damage and death.

“It is essential to recognize the signs of stroke and call 911 to get to the hospital as soon as possible,” he said, “because time is still brain.”

May is Stroke Awareness Month, an appropriate time to emphasize the importance of recognizing the signs, which can be memorized by the acronym B.E. F.A.S.T.:

  • B-Balance (Is the person having trouble with balance?)
  • E-Eyes (Does the person have blurred or double vision?)
  • F-Face (Does the face look uneven?)
  • A-Arm (Is one arm or leg suddenly weak?)
  • S-Speech (Does speech sound strange?)
  • T-Time (It’s time to call 911)With early data showing a significant increase in stroke deaths in 2020, stroke remains a leading cause of death in the United States, bumped down to No. 4 only because of COVID- 19. But Fletcher noted that, even among survivors, stroke takes a huge toll as the leading cause of disability.The devastating effects of stroke are another argument to be vaccinated for COVID-19, he said. There is moderate evidence that contracting COVID-19 increases the risk of stroke – and strong evidence it can contribute to more severe stroke outcomes.“In terms of stroke prevention, there’s a lot you can do by limiting risk factors and leading a healthy life,” Fletcher said. “That would include things that mitigate the chance of getting COVID, such as following public health measures, including immunization.”Acknowledging recent concerns about very rare blood clots among people who received vaccines, Fletcher said, “the risk of stroke with COVID is 1,000 times greater.”

Despite the challenges of the pandemic, Fletcher remains optimistic about the future of stroke care. Technological advances mean doctors are able to treat more strokes than ever. But for that to be possible, patients must arrive as soon as possible at a comprehensive stroke center like the one at Metro Health – University of Michigan Health.

“It gets back to recognizing what B.E. F.A.S.T. means,” he said. “Calling 911 can be the difference between death, severe disability and recovery.”

To learn more about recognizing the signs of stroke, plus the resources for stroke survivors and their caregivers, visit the Metro Health – University of Michigan Health website.

Drug Take Back is Saturday with Wyoming, Metro Health teaming up

3-bottom, , ,
The National Drug Take Back Day is Saturday, April 24, with the City of Wyoming teaming up with the Wyoming Department of Public Safety. (WKTV)

By City of Wyoming

The City of Wyoming and Metro Health-University of Michigan Health will help households across the community dispose of prescription and over-the-counter medications safely and properly on Saturday, April 24, as part of National Drug Take Back Day.

The City of Wyoming and Metro Health are partnering to provide two drive-thru drop-off sites for community members to bring unwanted prescriptions and over-the-counter medications 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The drop-off locations are Metro Health Hospital, 2122 Health Drive SW, and Wyoming Department of Public Safety, 2300 DeHoop Avenue SW. Staff will be on hand to anonymously accept medications, including controlled substances, with no questions asked.

National Drug Take Back Day is a biannual event promoted by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. Metro Health and the City of Wyoming continue to partner on this event twice each year to provide this service to the community. This past October, the Drug Take Back Day event took in 240 pounds of unwanted prescriptions and over-the-counter medications that were incinerated at the Kent County’s Waste to Energy Facility.

Both organizations recognize how community education can help protect the environment and reduce opportunities for prescription drug abuse, which continues to be a major public health concern in the country. Studies show a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, often from the home medicine cabinet.

“The Drug Take Back Day event is near and dear to my heart,” said Wyoming Mayor Jack Poll. “During my career as a pharmacist, I saw the heartbreak that can occur when medication gets into the wrong hands. I encourage everyone to go through their medicine cabinets and bring any unwanted or expired medication to this event.”

The Take Back Day events provide an opportunity for community members to help prevent drug addiction and overdose deaths.

“I would encourage everyone to take a few minutes to clean out your medicine cabinets and bring your unneeded prescription drugs to be disposed of safely,” said Pete Haverkamp, Director of Pharmacy, Metro Health – University of Michigan Health. “Something this simple can make our homes and community safer and help fight the opioid epidemic.”

There are four year-round SafeMeds drop-off sites in Wyoming, including the Department of Public Safety facility. Community members can drop off prescription and over-the-counter medications 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday at 2300 DeHoop Ave. SW.

For more information about Wyoming’s National Take Back Day event and a list of SafeMeds drop-off sites, visit wyomingmi.gov/SafeMeds.

COVID-19 vaccinations to be available at Metro Health’s community clinic

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming,
Metro Health – University of Michigan Health Community Clinic on 36th Street will be offering the COVID vaccine. (Supplied)

By Jamie Allen
Metro Health – University of Michigan Health

Reinforcing its commitment to health equity, Metro Health – University of Michigan Health has started offering COVID-19 vaccinations at its Community Clinic, which focuses on caring for underserved populations.

The Community Clinic, at 781 36th St. SE, near Eastern Avenue, is Metro Health’s first vaccine distribution site outside the main hospital. The site was chosen to expand access to vulnerable groups and to help those hit hardest by the pandemic.

“Many of the patients who rely on the Community Clinic face racial and social disparities that put them at greater risk for contracting COVID-19,” said Lori Price, Chief Operating Officer, Metro Health – University of Michigan Health. “Those same disparities contribute to underlying conditions that can add to the severity of the illness. These patients need and deserve the protection of the vaccine.”

Data from the federal Centers for Disease Control show COVID-19 infection rates, hospitalizations and deaths are disproportionately higher for non-white populations. Studies also show a disproportionate impact on impoverished communities.

These trends are reflected in West Michigan. Nine of the top 10 zip codes served by the Community Clinic match the top 10 zip codes for COVID-19 cases in Kent County, which make up more than half of the county’s total 47,739 cases as of Feb. 13.

 

Distribution at the Community Clinic will follow state guidelines for eligibility, and patients will be able to schedule via phone or MyChart. Clinic staff also will reach out directly to the most at-risk patients. After eligible Community Clinic patients have the opportunity to receive the vaccine, the site will open to the general public.

Due to the lack of vaccine, this is Metro Health’s first opportunity to offer the vaccine by Moderna. Like the Pfizer vaccine currently being administered at Metro Health Hospital, the Moderna vaccine was shown in clinical trials to be highly effective across ethnic and racial groups. However, unlike the Pfizer vaccine, the Moderna vaccine does not need to be stored in ultra-cold freezers at the hospital. This logistical advantage enables distribution to the Community Clinic.

The clinic has remained an invaluable community resource throughout the pandemic, maintaining access for safe in-person and virtual care visits. The location is on the No. 3 and No. 4 bus routes for The Rapid, with services designed to serve patients who are underinsured or uninsured, refugees, and those whose first language is not English.

 

In 2020, 60 percent of clinic patients were from non-white backgrounds, including 34 percent who listed their background as Black or African American and 11.5 percent who listed their ethnicity as Hispanic or Latino. With about 30 languages spoken by patients, 15 percent of office visits required an interpreter, most often for Spanish, Nepali and Burmese.

 

In surveys, more than half of patients at the Community Clinic said they experienced financial strain in 2020, and nearly a third faced daily stress. Most rely on Medicaid or Medicare for their health care, and some have no insurance.

 

Metro Health designed the Community Clinic to address these and other challenges faced in the community. In addition to primary care, services include family medicine, internal medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, osteopathic manipulative medicine, general surgery, orthopedics and urology.

 

The clinic has a multilingual staff and comprehensive services, including social workers and a nurse case manager. Staff helps with Medicaid applications and accessing medication and medical financial assistance. The clinic also provides an emergency food pantry.

“Through these programs and others, like home-visit education to reduce infant mortality, we are working to improve the health and wellbeing of all in our community,” Price said. “Providing access to COVID-19 vaccines is an important part of our work. The only way to defeat the pandemic is by making sure this protection is available to everyone.” 

Metro Health opens new office on East Beltline

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, , ,
Metro Health Beltline is located at 1310 E. Beltline Ave. (Supplied)

By Jamie Allen
Metro Health – University of Michigan Health

Metro Health – University of Michigan Health’s newest outpatient office is now open, bringing more services, including heart and vascular specialists, to East Grand Rapids, Cascade and surrounding areas.

Metro Health Beltline, at 1310 E. Beltline Ave. SE, just north of Lake Drive, replaces a smaller clinic on Cascade Road. All the providers from that office are relocating to the East Beltline site, and their phone numbers will not change.

The building’s modern design emphasizes a patient-centered concierge atmosphere. Nurse triage spaces provide convenient access for walk-in patients. The office is equipped with technology that allows self-rooming and self-checkout to reduce patient wait time and promote safety.

“As we enter a new world of healthcare delivery, this office is an example of Metro Health’s commitment to finding new and innovative ways to deliver quality care to our patients,” said Dr. Rakesh Pai, Chief Population Health Officer and President of the Medical Group.

At 30,500 square feet, the office is Metro Health’s largest primary care site. It has the capacity to accommodate up to 20 providers and 55 staff, caring for between 400 and 500 patients a day.

The office’s comprehensive services include family practice, sports medicine, internal medicine, behavioral health and diabetes education. Additionally, with adult and pediatric heart and vascular specialists, patients will have the choice of seeing their cardiologist at the main hospital or the East Beltline location. Heart and vascular services offered include chest x-rays, electrocardiograms (EKG / ECG), stress echocardiogram exercise or medication, graded exercise tests (GXT) and continuous portable telemetry monitoring.

With two patient care levels, the building also includes on-site x-ray and laboratory services. The office is open 7am to 5pm weekdays, with walk-in visits accepted. Call 616-252-1500 or visit Metro Health’s website for more information.

“We’re all looking forward to maintaining a relationship with our existing patients in this new location, where they will have convenient access to a wider range of services,” said Dr. Edwin Kornoelje, Metro Health Beltline Site Director. “At the same time, we look forward to adding new patients to the Metro Health family.”

Metro Health begins employee COVID-19 vaccinations

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, ,
Metro Health – University of Michigan Health started distributing the Pfizer vaccine this morning. (Supplied)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

At 6 a.m. today, Metro Health – University of Michigan Health began to vaccinate its employees with the Pfizer vaccine for COVID-19.

“This vaccine will provide much-needed protection for our employees , who serve on behalf of our community on the front lines of the pandemic,” said Metro Health – University of Michigan Health President and CEO Dr. Peter Hahn. “This is a breakthrough moment. This is how we start to turn the tide in our long battle with COVID-19.”

One of the first Metro Health staff to be vaccinated, Dr. Gabriel Pedraza, director of critical care at Metro Health, agreed with Hahn.

“I am going to fee a lot more comfortable treating my patients, my COVID patients,” Pedraza. Pedraza said he trusts the Center for Disease Control and knows that the Federal Drug and Food Administration would not have approved something that would put people at risk.

“Unfortunately there is a lot of misinformation out there,” Pedraza said. “I have looked at some of the data. I trust the CDC. I trust the FDA. They are not going to release an unsafe vaccine.

 

A Metro Health – University of Michigan staff person shows her vaccine record. (Supplied)

“This is a big moment for our country and for us and I really highly recommend that we all get vaccinated. I did. I do what I preach and I think it is very important that we all do that. I recommend that everyone can, get vaccinated.”

The Pfizer vaccine was the first to be approved by the FDA on Dec. 11. Shipments of the vaccine, which is made in Kalamazoo, started leaving the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Airport on Monday. The vaccine arrived at Wyoming’s Metro Health – University of Michigan Health on Thursday.

“This generation’s greatest minds have been working tirelessly on vaccines from almost the moment the pandemic began,” he said. “Soon we will have to do our part, by being vaccinated as soon as the vaccine is available to each of us.”

Hahn praised the historic scientific effort and rigorous evaluation that made a vaccine available this year. 

Metro Health’s initial shipment was 975 doses, with more anticipated on a regular cadence over the weeks to come. Metro Health’s Human Resources team collected input from its own Infection Prevention experts and clinical leaders, along with guidance from the CDC, to develop tiers of vaccine distribution based on risk of exposure and role in daily operations.

 

“As vaccine supplies grow, we look forward to extending the vaccine’s protection beyond our walls by following the guidance of public health experts,” Hahn said. Hahn and other leaders plan to receive the vaccine as soon as they meet the distribution criteria.

 

“As an ICU physician and healthcare leader, I will urge everyone to do the same,” he said. 

Metro Health awarded Leapfrog hospital safety grade A rating

3-bottom, City of Wyoming,
Metro Health – University of Michigan Health received an “A” rating from Leapfrog Group’s Hospital Safety Grade. (WKTV)

By Jamie Allen
Metro Health – University of Michigan Health

Metro Health – University of Michigan Health is realizing its vision of taking health care to a better place as proven by the recent award of an “A” rating by the Leapfrog Group’s Hospital Safety Grade.

“We are honored to receive an A rating from the esteemed Leapfrog Group,” said Stacie Bommersbach, Vice President of Quality and Patient Safety, Metro Health – University of Michigan Health. “The dedication and commitment of our staff are what led to this achievement.”

For the last 20 years, the Leapfrog Group has given ratings to hospitals for their efforts to take “giant leaps forward in the quality and safety” of health care for the communities they serve. This nonprofit leader reviews more than 2,600 hospitals nationwide for their commitments to patient safety and reducing errors, infections and injuries.

The Hospital Safety Grade is the only independent ratings program that focuses exclusively on how hospitals work to keep their patients safe. Patients and families more than ever turn to the Hospital Safety Grade to make their healthcare decisions. A study by the Altarum Institute found, when given the choice of selecting a hospital based on safety or cost, consumers will choose the safer hospital 97 percent of the time.

“Keeping our patients safe has been a top priority during this pandemic,” said Bommersbach. “This honor demonstrates the tremendous team effort in place at Metro Health to continually improve the care our patients receive.”

Please visit metrohealth.net/covid-19-updates for the most up-to-date information from the CDC and resources to protect yourself and prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Metro Health first Michigan hospital offering augmented reality guided surgery

3-bottom,

By Jamie Allen
Metro Health – University of Michigan Health

Metro Health – University of Michigan Health is now offering spine surgery using the Augmedics xvision Spine System, a groundbreaking augmented reality (AR) guidance system that allows surgeons to “see through” a patient’s anatomy as if they have “x-ray vision.”

“The xvision Spine System is the first AR guidance system to be used in surgery and we are excited to offer this to our patients at Metro Health,” said Dr. Ronald Grifka, Chief Medical Officer, Metro Health – University of Michigan Health. “xvision is groundbreaking technology that we feel will be a real game changer for our patients.”

Metro Health – University of Michigan Health reported that the first successful surgery with the Augmedics vision Spine System was on Sept. 21. (Supplied)

Similar to a real-time GPS technology, this “see-through” surgery allows surgeons to know exactly where to place implants in a patient’s unique spine anatomy, bringing a new standard of personalization and care to the operating room. The xvision Spine System is different from other image guidance systems, as it allows surgeons to maintain their focus directly on the patient, rather than searching for a distant screen displaying the patient’s anatomy.

“It utilizes a heads up retina display similar to military fighter jet technology allowing the surgeon to visualize the patient’s anatomy through the skin as if they have x-ray vision,” said Dr. John Keller, Neurosurgery Section Chief, Metro Health – University of Michigan Health.

The xvision Spine System consists of a transparent near-eye-display headset and all the elements of a traditional navigation system. It accurately determines the position of surgical tools, in real-time, and superimposes them on the patient’s CT images. The navigation data is then projected onto the surgeon’s retina using the headset, allowing him or her to simultaneously look at both the patient and the navigation data. The xvision Spine System is designed to revolutionize how surgery is done by giving the surgeon better visualization and control, which may lead to safer, easier and more efficient surgical procedures.

“xvision allows our surgeries to be more efficient and more precise,” said Grifka. “I think it will add real benefits to patients and patient care. This is the future of surgery.”

Keller successfully performed his first surgery using xvision on Monday, Sept. 21. There are currently three surgeons who operate at Metro Health who have been trained and are actively using the system.

Cancer Network of West Michigan pioneers robotic technology for early diagnosis of lung cancer

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming,
Metro Health – University of Michigan Health, as part of the Cancer Network of West Michigan, is pioneering the use of an advanced robotic system to diagnose lung cancer. (Supplied/Metro Health)

By Jamie Allen
Metro Health

Metro Health – University of Michigan Health, as part of the Cancer Network of West Michigan, is pioneering the use of an advanced robotic system to diagnose lung cancer at the earliest, hardest-to-reach stages, improving hope for survival from this No. 1 cause of cancer death.

“Historically, most lung cancer diagnoses were late. When we are able to detect, diagnose and treat sooner, we can help a patient outlive the cancer,” said Dr. Mounir Ghali, Director of Interventional Pulmonology at Metro Health.

Ghali and Metro Health are addressing the challenge of early detection with the region’s first Ion robotic-assisted bronchoscopy tool, allowing faster, more precise and minimally invasive biopsies. Ghali started using the system Sept. 21.

Early stage cancers typically are very small and located in hard-to-reach parts of the lung. The Ion robot’s shape-sensing technology allows Ghali to precisely guide a thin catheter through the patient’s mouth into the airway tree, and safely perform a biopsy – even in the smallest and most remote regions of the lung.

The procedure takes an hour or less. Patients go home after recovering from anesthesia and can return to work the next day.

“As part of the Cancer Network of West Michigan, a progressive regional collaboration with Mercy Health and Michigan Medicine, Metro Health is committed to innovation that provides hope for people in our community who are facing cancer,” said Dr. Peter Hahn, President and CEO, Metro Health – University of Michigan Health.

“The Ion system offers significant advantages to previous bronchoscopy technology,” said Hahn, who also is a pulmonologist. “This exemplifies our constant efforts to improve options for patients facing the possibility of lung cancer. Not only is Dr. Ghali a board-certified, fellowship-trained interventional pulmonologist, he is now equipped with the most advanced tool available int eh world for fast, safe, and accurate diagnosis.”

The Ion robotic bronchoscopy is used with cone beam CT technology to generate a three-dimensional road map to the target area. (Supplied/Metro Health)

The Ion robotic bronchoscopy is used with cone beam CT technology to generate a three-dimensional road map to the target area. The computer acts as a sort of GPS while a vision probe allows a real-time view inside the airway as the physician gives a 3.5-millimeter catheter along the path.

The catheter’s narrow diameter and maneuverability allow it to safely twist through tight corners, reaching al segments of the lung. The Ion also is compatible with existing equipment, including scanning devices that support real-time navigating. Once the target is reached, a needle inside the catheter collects the biopsy.

The Ion robotics bronchoscopy complements the work of Metro’s Health’s Lung Cancer Screening Clinic, which scans on high-risk patients to discover potential problems. If a scan reveals nodules, a biopsy is required for diagnosis.

“The life-saving potential of the Ion robot illustrates the importance of lung screenings as a first step,” said Dr. Terrance Barnes, who conducts the screenings for Metro Health.

“Lung screenings are essential to our overall strategy for improving cancer outcomes,” Barnes said. “Studies show lung screenings help reduce cancer deaths, especially when combined with smoking-cessation programs.”

Doctors and researchers agree quitting smoking is the most important step to preventing lung cancer. Patients wondering about their risk factors should talk to their physician or explore the lung-screening information on Metro Health’s website.

New robotic surgery system, ‘a quantum leap forward,’ will include outpatient procedures

3-bottom, City of Wyoming,
Metro Health recently acquired two da Vinci Xi robotic systems, state of the art technology that allows smaller incisions, greater precision, fewer complications and less pain for patients. Supplied/Metro Health)

By Jamie Allen
Metro Health – University of Michigan Health

With its latest expansion and update of robotic surgery capabilities, Metro Health – University of Michigan Health becomes the first health care system in West Michigan to offer the newest generation of this minimally invasive robotic option in an outpatient setting.

Metro Health recently acquired two da Vinci Xi robotic systems, state of the art technology that allows smaller incisions, greater precision, fewer complications and less pain for patients. One of the systems will be used at the main hospital in Wyoming. The other system will be available for outpatient procedures at the Health Park East Surgery Center, 4055 Cascade Road SE.

The equipment gives surgeons a 3-D view inside the body. Working from a console, surgeons guide precise movement of the robotic system’s tiny instruments, with far greater range of movement than possible with the human hand.

Metro Health’s first generation of da Vinci robotics was funded through a donation by local philanthropists Tom and Mickie Fox. (Supplied/Metro Health)

This technology builds on a tradition of surgical innovation at Metro Health, which has offered robotic surgery for more than a decade, said Dr. Ronald Grifka, Chief Medical Officer, Metro Health – University of Michigan Health.

“The Xi system is a quantum leap forward in technology,” Grifka said. “Our surgeons are poised to have another advantage in the treatment of our patients.”

Metro Health’s first generation of da Vinci robotics was funded through a donation by local philanthropists Tom and Mickie Fox. The addition of the Xi robotic systems was made possible through a $1M grant from the Metro Health Hospital Foundation.

“We are grateful to the foundation and its donors, who once again are helping our non-profit health system advance patient care for West Michigan,” said Grifka. “We are especially pleased that we can now offer this option for outpatient procedures.”

The versatility of the Xi system allows it to be used in a wide range of procedures, including prostatectomy, other urological surgeries, thoracic surgery, hysterectomy, additional gynecological surgeries, general surgery and ENT procedures.

“This Xi equipment is the latest example of our innovations in minimally invasive procedures, which promote speedier recoveries, reduced pain and less need for narcotics,” Grifka said. “Whenever patients are facing surgery, we are pleased to have options that help them get back to their lives sooner.”

Metro Health aims to educate the community on health inequities caused by COVID-19

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, , , ,
Dr. Rhae-Ann Booker, Vice President of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Metro Health – University of Michigan Health (From Metro Health video)

By Jamie Allen
Metro Health – University of Michigan Health

Race, gender, socio-economic status and sexual orientation are all common factors that determine risk in a health crisis. The COVID-19 pandemic is no exception. This public health crisis has exposed large health inequities in many populations, resulting in devastating and even life-and-death consequences.

“During a crisis like we are facing with coronavirus, it becomes convenient to abandon commitments toprincipals of diversity, equity and inclusion,” said Dr. Rhae-Ann Booker, Vice President of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Metro Health – University of Michigan Health. “This cannot be allowed to happen.”

As of mid-April, African Americans made up 33 percent of all confirmed cases in Michigan – and 40 percent of the deaths from COVID-19. In addition, the Kaiser Family Foundation has reported that those with a lower household income level are at higher risk of serious illness if infected with the coronavirus.

Screen shot from one of the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion videos from Metro Health-University of Michigan Health

There are several reasons why these populations are experiencing higher COVID-19 infection rates including underlying health conditions, occupational environment and living situations. There are also barriers to seeking treatment that put some minorities at a disadvantage such as a lack of health insurance and transportation, language barriers and a fear of trust.

Metro Health is educating the community on these health inequities through a video series released today at https://metrohealth.net/covid-19-updates/diversity-equity-inclusion/. Featuring Dr. Booker, these five videos address the important topics of: Health Inequities, Economic Impact, Building a Culture of Equity, Xenophobia and Preparing for the Future. Along with each video are valuable resources for people to continue to educate themselves on the topics.

“Even in the best of times, healthcare does not look the same for all people. It is not equitable. A pandemic shines a bright light on those inequities,” said Dr. Booker. “Metro Health is taking an even greater responsibility and accountability to educate the community on this topic and ensure no one is left behind.”

Please visit metrohealth.net/covid-19-updates for the most up-to-date information from the CDC and resources to protect yourself and prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Metro Health Farm Market, others set to open as scheduled

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, , , ,
The Metro Health Farm Market is set to open on May 14. (WKTV)

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

Among the announcements of cancellations and/or delays in programming comes some good news: many area farmers markets such as the Metro Health Farm Market and the City of Kentwood Farmers Market will open as scheduled.

“We’re very excited,” said Metro Health Farm Market Manager Michelle Rademacher. The Metro Health Farm Market is scheduled to open May 14 and run until Oct. 8 at the Metro Health Village, 5900 Byron Center Ave. SW. The market is on Thursdays from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., rain or shine.

“There has been a lot of planning for this to take place so as to follow all of the stipulations for COVID-19,” Rademacher said.

Farmers markets have been deemed essential by the state but even with this classification comes limitations with only food vendors able to sell at the markets. Like many of the area farmers markets, the Metro Health Farm Market and the Kentwood Farmers Market will be following Center for Disease Control and Michigan Farmers Market Association COVID-19 guidelines.

Along with only essential items such as food being offered, vendors will be six feet apart and required to wear masks. Patrons will be encouraged to wear masks and to leave their personal shopping bags at home.

“There is going to be less out with vendors restocking,” Rademacher said. “Hopefully customers will say, ‘I would like three corn, one lettuce,’ and the vendor will pick and bag the items so as to reduce the amount of touching the items.”

“Everybody loves to pick up a tomato to see if it is the perfect one for their meal,” said Fulton Street Farmers Market Assistant Manager Dana Eardley. Being open year around, the Fulton Street Farmers Market, 1145 Fulton St. SE, was able to gradually institute procedures for social distancing and reduction in contact. This included a policy that only the the vendors are allowed to touch food and produce.

The Fulton Street Farmers Market had its official main (summer) season opening this past weekend, where the hours were increased to 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday through October. From November to April the market is only open for a few hours on Saturday.

Area farmers markets have been deemed essential by the state with vendors only able to offer food items such as diary, meat, and produce. (Free Domain)

Kentwood Farmers Market

To encourage vendors to follow the guidelines, the Kentwood Farmers Market is offering a Vendor Scholarship, which will cover 100 percent of the vendor fees. To qualify for the scholarship, a vendor who sells food products, needs to demonstrate a commitment to customer safety such as offering pre-packaged items or pick-up.

The Kentwood Farmers Market returns for its sixth season, June 4 and running through Aug. 27. The market will take place on Thursdays from 4:30 – 7:30 p.m. in front of Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. SE. For more information on the Kentwood Farmers Market or the Vendor Scholarship, visit the market’s website. 

Get It and Go

The implementation of customer counts with the Fulton Street Farmers Market only being able to allow 66 customers in the market at onetime did prove to be a challenge. The market was required to close off all its side entrances and increase its volunteers to get the customer counts along with help at the handicap entrance, Eardley said.

“The market is a place that people come to stroll or have a family outing, letting the smells and produce call to them as to what they might want to add to their meals,” Eardley said. “We have had to really make a shift in having people get in and get their food and leave.”

Advance planning is encouraged with the Fulton Street Farmers Market instituting a “roll call” on its Facebook of vendors planning to be at the market so shoppers could plan.

 

The Metro Health Farm Market also will have traffic arrows to direct the market flow and some of its entrance points will be closed but there are no plans to track the number of people in the market.

“There is some fear that a farmers market can turn into a social gathering, “Rademacher said. “Hopefully people will follow social distancing guidelines and only send one person from a family to help with the crowd control.

Rademacher added staff will be keeping an eye on the first day to see if adjustments need to be made.

Making Their Dollars Count

Eardley remarked that attendance for opening weekend was lower than usually, but she did have good news for other farmers markets.

“Some of our vendors have told us that they have had record-breaking sales,” she said. “So while the volume was down, those who were coming are very serious about making their dollars count toward the local food farmers and not the big box stores.”

Rademacher concurred with Eardley, saying “I think people are acknowledging that farmers are small businesses and spending local wherever they can.”

What About Non-Food Items?

Most markets usually have a mix of food and non-food items. Fulton Street Farmers Market also has an artist market on Sundays starting in June. Because crafters and non-food vendors do not fall under the essential category, for now they will not be at the markets. Both Radamacher and Eardley said they remain hopeful that as guidelines change, non-essential vendors will be able to be added.

Metro Health – University of Michigan Health helps to find a COVID-19 treatment

3-bottom, City of Wyoming,

By Jamie Allen
Metro Health – University of Michigan Health

Metro Health ICU physicians on the frontlines of COVID-19 treatment are also on the leading edge of searching for innovative solutions.

Dr.Ronald G. Grifka, Metro Health’s Chief Medical Officer

Intensive-care doctors Eric Feucht and Matt V. Zaccheo and section chief Dr. Gabriel E. Pedraza are working with Mayo Clinic to research the use of convalescent plasma to treat COVID-19. This therapy was used this month with two Metro Health ICU patients. One recovered and went home, and the other continues to improve.

“This is a promising treatment option and we are proud to contribute to the research,” said Dr.Ronald G. Grifka, Metro Health’s Chief Medical Officer. “The best minds in the world are working on this problem, and scientific collaboration of this sort is essential to finding the solutions.”

Mayo Clinic has been designated by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration to lead the project in collaboration with research institutions across the country. Metro Health is among the hospitals contributing to the project.

The idea convalescent plasma is more than a century old: A recovered patient’s blood serum is infused in a patient suffering the same disease, in hopes the recovered patient’s antibodies will help resist the viral invasion. This strategy has been used, with varying success, to treat Spanish Flu, SARs, Ebola and other outbreaks – but its effectiveness with COVID-19 is unknown.

The FDA has only approved the use of COVID-19 convalescent plasma as an investigational drug. This means it can be considered for use in clinical trials and for expanded use in patients with immediate, life-threatening conditions.

As a participant in the Mayo Clinic research, Metro Health will supply data from its patients who received infusions.

“Along with the scientific rigor, we’re seeing cooperation across the board to bring this investigation up to speed,” Grifka said. “This includes leading research institutions, hospitals and blood centers. Let’s not forget the recovered patients themselves, who are willing to roll up theirsleeves, literally, in hopes that can help others.”

To find out if you are eligible to donate your plasma, click here.

Metro Health relies on virtual care to continue seeing patients safely during COVID-19

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, , , ,
Dr. Renee Elderkin conducts a virtual visit with a patient. (Supplied)

By Jamie Allen
Metro Health – University of Michigan Health

Social distancing precautions are important, but so is a patient’soverall health. Metro Health is here for patients and their families and wants to keep everyone safe during the COVID-19 outbreak. This means finding innovative ways to continuing seeing patients at a safe distance.

Metro Health’s virtual care options allow for patients to stay in regular contact with their providers and care team amid COVID-19, while keeping both the patient and provider safe. Delaying care can be often be dangerous to a patient’s health when ongoing care needs are significant. In addition to primary care for annual check-ups and medication checks, all 14 Metro Health specialties are seeing patients through phone calls, emails and video visits.

“Virtual care has always been a part of our patient access strategy, but COVID-19 has rapidly shifted our focus from in-person care to virtual care in our primary and specialty care settings,” said Josh Wilda,Chief Information Officer, Metro Health – University of Michigan Health.”

Video visits are safe, secure and use a high-quality connection. When in-person visits are not possible, a video visit is the next best thing. This option provides a connected experience for the patient and provider, by supporting nonverbal cues like body language and facial expressions. Metro Health’s virtualcare options have been very well received by patients.

“Our patients’ response to virtual care has been one of relief,” said Wilda. “When our office connects with patients, they have been grateful to be able to continue their care without having to come into the office or the hospital during these times of recommended social distancing.”

Dr. Ghali Taling discusses care with a patient through a virtual meeting. (Supplied)

“Our endocrinology patients are simply happy that their physicians can see them from the safety of theirown homes,” said Metro Health Endocrinologist, Dr. Edward Kryshak. “Many of our higher risk patientsare afraid to leave their homes and virtual care options make continued care for this vulnerable population possible.”

New mothers are also among those grateful that they can stay connected to their OBGYNs without having to expose their newborns to unnecessary germs during traditional post-partum office visits.

“I had a patient last week that I did a video visit with who was six weeks post-partrum,” said StevenLown, OBGYN, Metro Health – University of Michigan Health. “It was a beautiful day outside and shewas walking with her baby in a stroller. She said she loved it and commented how nice it was that she could be out walking her infant and do a visit at the same time.”

Since the start of the COVID-19 outbreak, Metro Health has conducted 6,700 video visits. In addition to video visits, patients can take advantage of asynchronous visits for emailing their providers questionsand concerns through Metro Health’s digital platform, MyChart.

To schedule a visit using one of Metro Health’s virtual care options, patients should reach out to their Metro Health provider. If you do not have a provider, please visit https://metrohealth.net/find-a-doc/

Metro Health grateful for the outpouring of community support and donations

3-bottom, , ,
Kentwood’s Buddy’s Pizza stopped by with some of its Detroit-style pizzas. (Supplied)

By Jamie Allen
Metro Health

Metro Health – University of Michigan Health and the Metro Health Hospital Foundation would like to express gratitude for the outpouring of support from local businesses, restaurants and community members.

“West Michigan is stepping up to rally around the health care community and we are so grateful,”said Greg Meyer, Chief Community Officer, Metro Health – University of Michigan Health. “We are working around the clock to ensure that our staff has the supplies and equipment needed to save lives and continue to provide safe, excellent care to our patients.”

Hudsonville Ice Cream provided some sweet treats to Metro Health – University of Michigan Health staff. (Supplied)

A few highlights include:

  • Personal protective equipment (PPE) and other vital supplies donated from nearly 250businesses and individuals including Byrne Electric, Sherwin Williams, Amway, Steelcase,Home Depot, Lowe’s, Planet Fitness and Mitten Brewing.
  • Delicious meals and snacks for employees from more than 50 restaurants, businesses and individuals including Camp Bow Wow Byron Center, The Gluten Free Bar, CSA of West Michigan, Hudsonville Ice Cream, Buddy’s Pizza, Chick-Fil-A, Grand Rapids Griffins, Nuance Communications, Sprinkles Donuts and Pizza Parliament Food Truck.
  • Patient and caregiver messages submitted by the community through Metro Health’swebsite, handwritten cards for staff and inspiring signs and sidewalk chalk art.
  • City of Wyoming and the Wyoming Fire Department display of the American flag outside of the hospital.
  • Locally-made gifts for moms that deliver at Metro Health during visitor restrictions purchased with a grant from the Metro Health Hospital Foundation.
  • Nearly $121,000 distributed to 88 Metro Health employees facing financial hardships related to COVID-19 from a relief fund established by the Metro Health Hospital Foundation. This is funded by the generosity of fellow staff members and community donors.“The Metro Health Hospital Foundation is honored to be involved in these efforts, but it’s the community’s generosity that has made these added resources possible,” said Jaime Counterman, Director of the Metro Health Hospital Foundation. “We want to thank the community for their compassion during these unprecedented times.”

New moms received locally made gifts purchased through a grant. (Supplied)

Metro Health continues to accept donations of unused PPE, inspiring messages for patients and meals for our hardworking staff. All donation information can be found on metrohealth.net/covid- 19-updates.

Please also visit metrohealth.net/covid-19-updates for the most up-to-date information from the CDC and resources to protect yourself and prevent the spread of COVID-19.

This says it all. (Supplied)

COVID-19 could not stop the wedding bells from ringing for one West Michigan couple

3-bottom, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

Melaine Bork and Bradley Wernette were not about to let COVID-19 prevent them from getting married. The couple tied the knot April 13 at Metro Health. (Supplied)

April is a big time for weddings and like many couples, Melanie Bork and Bradley Wernette were looking forward to their special day on April 17 in Petoskey, Mich. However, one uninvited guest — COVID-19 — crashed the party before it could even get started.

Both essential employees working at Metro Health – University of Michigan Health — Bork is a a nurse in the post-anesthesia recovery unit and Wernette is a physician assistant in neurosurgery — the couple faced long hours ahead on the front lines of battling the coronavirus. That and a governor’s executive order limiting gatherings met the Petoskey wedding was not going to happen.

But Bork and Wernette were not about to let anything stop them from getting hitched.

Metro Health chaplain John DeVries (center) officiated the ceremony. (Supplied)

“We can say that we’re more excited about the marriage than one day of a party and a wedding,” Bork said. “We’re more excited about the rest of our lives and a marriage.”

They picked a new venue, the place they happened to be at the most, Metro Health, and reached out to the hospital’s chaplain, John DeVries. DeVries has married other people at the hospital, but it is normally when a patient is too sick to have a wedding anywhere else, adding that this was a much nicer experience, despite the less-than-perfect venue.

“It is really nice to have a wedding to focus on and to show there are good things going on during this unprecedented time,” DeVries said.

Social distancing guidelines were followed for the April 13 wedding of Melaine Bork (second from right) and Bradley Wernette (right). (Supplied)

So a few days earlier from their original date, the couple tied the knot on Monday, April 13, with two co-workers as witnesses and DeVries officiating the ceremony, and of course, all social distancing guidelines being followed. Metro Health also was able to stream the ceremony for the couple’s family members to watch and enjoy the special union.


The couple is not alone. Across the country, there have been reports of couples finding ways to say their “I dos,” from one couple stepping outside for their “walk” to another having a drive-by wedding.

The couple, who reside in Hudsonville, hopes to have a party with the 110 friends and family who were planning to come to the Petoskey ceremony this summer to celebrate their nuptials as well as taking their postponed honeymoon to Hawaii.

The couple’s friends and family were able to watch the wedding via streaming. (Supplied)

Metro Health preserves spiritual practices for patients amid COVID-19 outbreak

3-bottom,

By Jamie Allen
Metro Health – University of Michigan Health

COVID-19 has quickly disrupted every part of our lives, including how we practice our faith. This can be especially challenging for healthcare settings as they uphold a statewide ban on visitors.

The highly contagious nature of COVID-19 requires unprecedented precautions. Metro Health –University of Michigan Health is working to preserve spiritual practices while also honoring an obligation to the lives in our care and the safety of our community.

The matters of clergy access and end-of-life sacraments have been carefully deliberated byMetro Health’s COVID-19 Incident Command team. Metro Health has allowed and continues to allow priests access to administer Viaticum for the dying.

“Metro Health has a long tradition of working with faith leaders,” said Steve Polega, Chief Nursing Officer, Metro Health – University of Michigan Health. “In addition to our hospital chaplain, Metro Health maintains relationships with congregations across the region,” saidPolega. “These connections are more valuable than ever in the era of COVID-19, especially as we approach a sacred time of year for people of Christian, Jewish and Muslim faiths.”

Metro Health continues to look for more solutions that preserve those human and spiritual connections we all treasure.

Metro Health announces two employee programs

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, ,
Metro Health – University of Michigan Health partners with YMCA to provide daycare for staff. (Supplied)

By Jamie Allen
Metro Health – University of Michigan Health

Metro Health – University of Michigan Health last week announced progressive programs that will help ease the burden of child care and financial restraints for valued staff during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Metro Health Hospital and Metro Health Hospital Foundation have partnered with the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids to provide free and reliable backup child care services for the children of all employees, employed medical providers and contracted staff. Metro Health will be providing these backup child care services on its campus at the SpartanNash YMCA location, and the care will be provided by qualified child care workers.

“We are proud to partner with Metro Health and do our small part to help the medicalcommunity during this challenging and unprecedented time,” said Scott Lewis, President and CEO, YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids. “We believe collaborative efforts like these make us all stronger as we lean in together in support of our community.”

The YMCA has agreed to allow Metro Health to lease space in the building and equipment for this limited purpose of providing emergency backup child care. Extreme measures have been taken to prepare and sanitize the classrooms and staff started utilizing the service on March 16.

Additionally, the Metro Health Hospital Foundation has announced a $1 million needs-based assistance fund for employees who encounter COVID-19-related hardships. Examples of a need include bill payment assistance, support for vehicle repairs to ensure transportation to work or offsetting the costs of care for family members who fall ill or need assistance.

“I want to thank and commend the Metro Health Hospital Foundation for helping to establish this program in such a short time,” said Peter Hahn, President and CEO, Metro Health –University of Michigan Health. “We understand COVID-19 has disrupted many lives and this is why we believe it is essential to support our colleagues through resources such as this needs-based fund and free child care.”

Metro Health employees are also being encouraged to donate back unused paid time off hours to support colleagues who may exhaust their hours due to illness or to care for family. Metro Health will continue efforts in the coming weeks in order to keep the Metro Health team healthy, financially stable and ready to serve the community.

Visit www.metrohealth.net for the most up to date information from the CDC and resources to protect yourself and prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Metro Health changes visitor policy to limit spread of respiratory illness, COVID-19

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, , ,

With the first cases of COVID-19 confirmed this week in the state of Michigan, Metro Health – University of Michigan Health is taking additional measures to limit the spread of respiratory illness and COVID-19. Adjustments have been made to the hospital visitor policy to take effect Friday, March 13.

To protect patients, staff members and fellow visitors, the following restrictions are being put in place at the main hospital, as well as all ambulatory clinics and the outpatient surgical center.

  • All visitors and family members must be healthy without symptoms of illness
  • Visitors are limited to one per patient.
  • Two visitors will be allowed for pediatric and maternity patients.
  • No children under the age of 12 years will be permitted unless they are a patient.
  • Anyone who has recently traveled to CDC Level 2 or 3 countries are not permitted to visit.



Metro Health is committed to the health and safety of our patients, staff and the West Michigan community. Please contact your Metro Health provider if you are experiencing the following COVID-19 symptoms or you have been in close contact with a person known to have COVID-19.

  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath



Patients can schedule a convenient e-visit through MyChart. Our goal is to prevent the spread of illness by enabling people to remotely seek the information they need. Anyone with severe or life-threatening symptoms should call 911.

Please visit www.metrohealth.net for the most up to date information from the CDC and resources to protect yourself and prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Three area institutions partner to form new Cancer Network initiative

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, , , ,


By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org

Since 2010, the Centers for Disease Control predicted that the number of new cancer cases has increased 24 percent. 

For those in the medical field, the reason for that increase varies from early detection to people living longer. Because of some of those reasons, many agree that cancer care has become subspecialized and getting the right care often means that some West Michigan residents have had to leave home to find it.

Dr. Peter Hahn, President and CEO of Metro Health – University of Michigan Health (WKTV)

However, three institutions — Metro Health – University of Michigan Health, Mercy Health, and Michigan Medicine (formerly the University of Michigan Health System) — are looking to change that with a new initiative launched at the beginning of 2020, the Cancer Network of West Michigan.

The Cancer Network is being designed to integrate cancer care services in West Michigan with the goal of bringing broader access to advanced, state-of-the-art, comprehensive diagnosis treatment and support across leading health care institutions.

“We are really bringing together the talents of three world class organizations and combining it with the world class expertise of Michigan medicine,” said Dr. Peter Hahn, CEO and President of Metro Health – University of Michigan Health.

Dr. Kim Hyung, President of Mercy Health Saint Mary’s (WKTV)

Dr. Hyung Kim, president of Mercy Health Saint Mary’s, said the partnership is actually a natural extension of partnerships that already exist between the institutions. They Cancer Network of West Michigan will build on the foundation established by a radiation oncology collaborative already linking radiation oncology services between Michigan Medicine and Metro Health and between Michigan Medicine and Mercy Health.

Hyung said the question became “What can we do to take it to the next level. Especially in something like cancer care where there are more therapies and things are getting more complicated. Working together can make a big different in terms of what you can offer a community.”

Combined, the three West Michigan facilities treat 13,658 cancer patients a year. They bring to the collaboration a combined of 63 cancer specialists and sub-specialists, along with access to the latest research, treatments and clinical trails.

 

What does this mean for the average patient? Two or three years ago, a person with lung cancer only had one option, which was standard therapy such as chemotherapy, Hahn said. Today, there are so many different advances in terms of molecularity therapy that through the Cancer Network, the three partnering organizations will be able to offer that care in West Michigan versus a person having to travel to Ann Arbor or the Mayo Clinic, he said.

“We all know that people do better if they get excellent care close to home,” Hyung said.

For patients, the new Cancer Network will provide a more standardized cancer base-care with less variance. No matter which facility a patient goes to, they should receive the same treatment options.

 

Dr. Gary Allore, President of Mercy Health Muskegon (WKTV)

The initial announcement of the new initiative was received quite favorably by staff, acceding to the hospital officials. Currently, the three organizations are working to build the leadership team for the Cancer Network. There is a nationwide search for the person who will head the Network with the recruiting process for the specialists, who are in high demand, underway as well.

By having access to world class trials and advance therapies, Hahn said he believes the Cancer Network could help make West Michigan a destination for cancer care treatment.

“There is a lot of work to come, but we are all confident this could be a regional leading, potentially a national leader, in cancer care,” Hahn said. 

To learn more about the Cancer Network of West Michigan, visit wmicancernetwork.org.

Metro Health offers two new therapies for sleep apnea

3-bottom, ,
Respicardia Remede

By Jamie Allen
Metro Health

As part of its commitment to medical innovation, Metro Health – University of Michigan Health is offering two new groundbreaking treatments for sleep apnea, a potentially dangerous interruption of breathing that affects the health and wellbeing of more than 18 million Americans.

One of the treatments is a first in the state of Michigan: a breakthrough procedure for central sleep apnea (CSA), a disorder where the brain fails to signal breathing muscles during sleep.

The Respicardia remedē® System is designed to restore that signal. An implantable therapy approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the remedē System monitors and stabilizes the breathing pattern throughout the night. It works by stimulating a nerve that controls the diaphragm, just as the brain does.

“This is an exciting development,” said Dr. Matthew Sevensma, who performed the state’s first remedē procedure on Aug. 1 at Metro Health. “As a cardiologist, I’ve seen the connectionbetween heart disease and sleep apnea. This is an innovative way to address risk factors, reduce daytime drowsiness and improve overall quality of life.”

Following a referral by Metro Health pulmonologist Dr. Timothy Daum, Sevensma implanted the device during a minimally invasive outpatient procedure. The device is activated 30 days later. In a clinical study, 91 percent of CSA patients saw a reduction in the number of sleep apnea events.

The National Institutes of Health notes untreated sleep apnea can contribute to serious conditions, such as heart attack, glaucoma, diabetes, cancer and cognitive and behavioral disorders.

Patients who suspect they have sleep apnea should talk to their doctors. Common symptoms include snoring, gasping during sleep, frequent waking, excessive daytime sleepiness, decreased attention, dry mouth or headaches when waking.

The most common type of sleep apnea is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) – different from CSA because it occurs when the airway collapses during sleep. This disorder often is treated by use of the mask-and-hose system commonly called CPAP – an acronym for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure.

Metro Health also offers the Inspire Upper Airway Stimulation. (Supplied)

As an alternative for patients unable or unwilling to use the CPAP devices, Metro Health now offers Inspire® Upper Airway Stimulation.

“I’m thrilled that we are able to offer therapies for both obstructive and central sleep apnea that do not involved wearing a mask,” said Daum. “Patients have been asking for these options foryears and we are now able to offer them effective and safe alternatives.”

The Inspire system is an FDA-approved implantable device that uses mild stimulation to keep the airway open. It is inserted under the skin during an outpatient procedure, and patients use a small handheld remote to turn it on before bed.

Metro Health is able to offer this option through its affiliation with Michigan Medicine. Suitable candidates will be referred to ENT-otolaryngologist, Dr. Matthew Spector, for the procedure.

Current shortage has Metro Health hosting community blood drive

3-bottom, ,

WKTV Staff
joanne@wktv.org


Metro Health – University of Michigan Health and Versiti Blood Center of Michigan are hosting a community blood drive Thursday, July 18, to help combat the current blood shortage.

This will take place in the mobile blood bus at the Metro Health Farmer’s Market from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. An emergency blood shortage is prompting an urgent call for eligible donors of all blood types – especially type O – to give now.

Willingness to give the gift of life is perhaps more critical now than in recent months, and authorities with Versiti Blood Center of Michigan are hopeful community members will step up to donate blood. An emergency blood shortage is prompting an urgent call for eligible donors of all blood types – especially type O – to give now.

The American Red Cross recently escalated its call for blood and platelet donors after a difficult Independence Day week for donations. More than 550 fewer blood drives were organized by businesses and community groups than during a typical week. This equates to as many as 15,000 fewer donations than needed, causing donations to now be distributed to hospitals faster than they come in.

Metro Health and Versiti Blood Center of Michigan are urging community members to donate on July 18. All attempting donors will receive a limited edition pair of Versiti flip flops while supplies last.

Granger Group moves toward adding finishing pieces in Metro Health Village

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, , , ,

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma
joanne@wktv.org


CEO Gray Granger jokingly admits that his company, The Granger Group, is kind of getting evicted from its current location at 2221 Health Dr. SW.

“[Metro Health-University of Michigan Health] is expanding and growing so much that they really just need this space,” Granger said of his company’s current home during a recent interview. “It is really exciting to see that and to see the hospital continuing to grow and meeting the needs of the residents.”

It is an exciting time at the Metro Health Village, which has been rebranded to The Village, according to Granger. If you have driven by the site located near the corner of 54th Street and Byron Center Avenue, you can not help but notice all the work that has been taking place there. 

Site plan for the Village Life Marketplace. The Village Market Place is located on the corner of Byron Center Avenue and Health Drive. (Supplied)

The Granger Group is currently constructing the Village Life Marketplace, located on the northwest corner of Health Drive and Byron Center Avenue, across from the current structure that contains the Starbucks, Posh Nails, and Marcos Pizza. 

“We are very focused on health and wellness,” Granger said. “Everything ties together here. There are open site lines. People can see where they want to go to. They know that can get from one point to another point in the village without getting into a car.”

One of the goals of The Granger Group has been to create a sustainable and walkable community, Granger said. The marketplace is about half of the 190-acre Village, totaling 80 acres. Being that Metro Health is the center point to the entire Village, Granger said the company wanted to incorporate as much healthy lifestyle options as possible. 

“What we are going to see is just a lot of activity that will build on some neat amenities like the village green,” Granger said. “It is just a fun place.”

The Granger Group has built the first two buildings, totaling about 20 square feet of retail. Last summer, the group broke ground on the construction of four more buildings.

The current project includes a two-story, 20,000-square-foot mixed-use building with first-floor retail and second floor office space, which will be the new home of The Granger Group. The project also includes two single-story retail totaling 10,000 square feet. With that, the project will add more housing to Granger’s First & Main, an assisted-living retirement community. This will be a four-story, 65-unit independent living complex that will face toward Health Drive.

The Granger Group is negotiations with several financial services companies and restaurants. (WKTV)

The Granger Group is currently in negotiations with several financial services companies and restaurants with Granger noting they are hoping to have a restaurant facing out on the current waterfall area at the Village.

“I happen to think this is one of the projects that is going to make a major difference within the city we live and its gonna to be a great addition for those who live within the City of Wyoming,” Granger said.

The project is scheduled to be completed in the fall. It is estimated that the entire Village project is around $2 billion. The project is a partnership between The Granger Group, Metro Health-University of Michigan Health and the City of Wyoming.

Metro Health expands by adding physician offices in Grandville

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism

By Jamie Allen

Metro Health

The new Metro Health Grandville is located at 4285 Parkway Place. (Supplied)

In its continuing effort to make sure patients have access to quality health care, last week, Metro Health opened its 17th neighborhood physician office providing another convenient location for the community.

“Our neighborhood physician offices offer patients both choice and access when it comes to primarycare,” said Dr. Rakesh Pai, President Medical Group and Chief Population Health Officer, Metro Health – University of Michigan Health. “We have a large patient base that call Grandville home, so we felt it was a natural fit to open our next office in their community.”

Metro Health Grandville, like other Metro Health neighborhood outpatient centers, is a model for care that promotes partnerships between individual patients and their personal physician. The practices are recognized for intensified efforts to coordinate patients’ health care through prevention, diagnosis, treatment and follow-up services.

Located at 4285 Parkway Place SW in Grandville, the office will offer both family practice and OB/GYN services. Dr. Rebecca Werner will serve as the site medical director, seeing patients alongside Lindsey Marchel, NP. In addition, three OB/GYNs, Dr. Renee Elderkin, Dr. Stephanie Getz and Dr. Sue Hicks, will split their time between Metro Health Grandville, Metro Health Village and Metro Health Park East.

Dr. Rebecca Werner will serve will serve as the site medical director. (Supplied)

“We believe the Grandville community will benefit from having access to another primary care and OB/GYN outpatient option where they live,” said Werner. “We’re looking forward to growing the practice and plan to add two Internal Medicine/Pediatric physicians later this year.”

Metro Health Grandville will be open Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Same day appointments are available and walk ins are welcome during regular business hours.

Metro Health – University of Michigan Health becomes first GR hospital to receive HIMSS Level 7 status

3-bottom, City of Wyoming,
Metro Health – University of Michigan Health receives a prestigious award in the use of electronic medical record technology to improve patient care. (Supplied)

By Jamie Allen
Metro Health – University of Michigan Health

Metro Health – University of Michigan Health has become the first health system in Grand Rapids to attain HIMSS Level 7 status, the most prestigious distinction in the use of electronic medical record technology to improve patient care.

The designation puts Metro Health in elite company. But the greatest accomplishments are the measurable improvements to the safety and quality of care – faster stroke treatment, more accurate medication administration and additional life-saving advancements.

These advances are supported by the hospital’s sophisticated use of information technology, which hasbeen a hallmark of Metro Health even before it became the region’s first health system to adopt Epicelectronic medical records in October 2006.

Examples from Metro Health’s case studies submitted to HIMSS (Healthcare Information andManagement Systems Society) include:

  •  Speeding stroke treatment from 53 minutes to 29, enabled in part through Vocera technology.
  •  Reducing readmission for heart attacks to rates below national averages through communication about EKG and blood chemical indicators of heart attacks.
  •  Increasing opportunities to treat undiagnosed depression through automatic alerts to physicians based on patient questionnaires.
  •  Improving diabetes management by tracking progress toward outcome targets.
  •  Utilizing data analytics to support business decisions in choosing the best diagnostic tools.


“HIMSS Stage 7 health care system, as tracked by the HIMSS Analytics Electronic Medical Record Adoption Model,” said Phillip Bradley, Regional Director, North American, HIMSS Analytics. “The organization isalso validated as a HIMSS Analytics Outpatient Electronic Medical Record Adoption Model Stage 7 system.”

The designation covers electronic medical record adoption in ambulatory as well as hospital applications. Metro Health is one of only two hospitals in the state of Michigan to have obtained both ambulatory and hospital applications.

Metro Health already was in rare company, part of the roughly one-third of health care systems that had achieved Level 6 status. The leap from Level 6 to Level 7 is significant – only 6.4 percent of health systems nationwide have reached Level 7, according to a summary report in 2018.

“Achieving this level is like finishing the last mile of a marathon, or the final 100 feet of a mountainascent – it requires tremendous effort and very few accomplish it,” said Dr. Peter Hahn, President and CEO, Metro Health – University of Michigan Health.

“I could not be prouder of our IT team, clinical staff and operational professionals,” he said. “Thisaccomplishment was a true collaborative effort, spanning every aspect of our health care system.”

Here is how HIMSS defines the qualifications for Level 7:

  • The hospital no longer uses paper charts to deliver and manage patient care and has a mixture of discrete data, document images, and medical images within its EMR environment.
  • Data warehousing is being used to analyze patterns of clinical data to improve quality of care, patient safety and care delivery efficiency.
  • Clinical information can be readily shared via standardized electronic transactions with all entities that are authorized to treat the patient, or a health information exchange.
  • The hospital demonstrates summary data continuity for all hospital services.
  • Physician documentation and computerize physician order entry has reached 90%, and the closed-loop (barcoding) processes have reached 95%.


While Level 7 represents the pinnacle of information technology achievement, it does not mark the endof Metro Health’s journey in IT innovation, said Chief Information Officer and Interim Chief Operating Officer Josh Wilda.

“If anything, it’s just the beginning,” Wilda said. “Metro Health has long recognized and leveraged the power of information technology to deliver better health care. And we’re going to continue to lead the way.”

Wyoming, Metro Health partner on fall drug take back event

3-bottom, City of Wyoming, , , , ,

WKTV Staff

joanne@wktv.org

 

National Take Back is this Saturday with the City of Wyoming once again partnering with Metro Health-University of Michigan Health to provide a location for residents to dispose of unused medications safely and property. 

 

Hosted twice a year, National Take Back Day was started in 2010 by the Drug Enforcement Administration to address a crucial public safety and public health issue. According to the 2016 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 6.2 million Americans misused controlled prescription drugs. The study shows that a majority of abused prescription drugs were obtained from family and friends, often from the home medicine cabinet, accord go the Take Back Day website.

 

From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., area residents will have the opportunity to dispose of unused medications with no questions asked at Metro Health – University of Michigan Health, 5900 Byron Center Ave. SW, or the Wyoming Public Safety Department, 2300 DeHoop Ave. SW.

 

According to a media release from the Wyoming Department of Public Safety “properly disposing of your medications is critically important to protecting individuals in our community, as well as our environment.”

 

Growing concern over pharmaceutical pollution in waterways and the environment also had an impact on creating the Take Back campaign. According to a 2002 analysis by the U.S. Geological Survey of 139 streams across 30 states it was found that 80 percent of waterways tested had measurable concentrations of prescription and nonprescription drugs, steroids and reproductive hormones.

 

The City of Wyoming also offers a prescription drug drop-off service 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday at its Public Safety office.

 

The Kent County Department of Public Works has established the SafeMeds Program that includes a list of many local pharmacies and law enforcement agencies that will accept unwanted medications. For more on the SafeMeds Program, visit www.reimaginetrash.org/safehomes/safemeds/.

Metro Health Village: Go the extra mile for better health

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, Community Health, Health, How-To's, Recreation, Senior Living, , ,

metro-health-a-great-place-to-walkBy Metro Health-University of Michigan Health

 

Walking is as simple as it gets for a gentle, low-impact exercise that just about anyone can enjoy. In fact, walking can help prevent and improve many common health issues like heart disease, obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, osteoporosis and depression, to name a few. All you need is a good, supportive pair of walking shoes and a safe place to walk, like Metro Health Village, 5900 Byron Center Avenue in Wyoming.

 

Metro Health Village has a number of walking routes and even a bike trail — all perfect for an afternoon stroll with the kids or a quick, weeknight workout. Download a Walking/Bike Route map here.

 

Need a little push to get started? Check out the Couch to 5K Training Program. Even if you’re not looking to set any world records, this program will have you up and active in no time!

 

Motivation is key when starting a new physical activity. Here are some ideas to help you stay focused and interested every day:

  • Wear a pedometer. Increase your steps a little every day until you reach the recommended 10,000 steps a day.
  • Get a walking partner – a friend, spouse, child, even the dog!
  • Sign up for a race or charity walk like the Metro Way 5K & Family Fun Run or the American Heart Association Heart Walk. An upcoming event gives you a goal to reach.
  • Take the stairs instead of the elevator.
  • Park farther from the door when running errands.
  • Plan a walking meeting at work.

Walking Safety Tips

Above all, it’s important to stay safe, no matter where or when you walk.

  • Walk with a buddy whenever possible.
  • Carry your name, address and a friend or relative’s phone number in your shoe or pocket.
  • Wear a medical bracelet if you have diabetes, an allergy or other condition.
  • Carry a cell phone, and let someone know you’re walking routes.
  • Avoid deserted or unlit streets, especially after dark.
  • Do not use headsets that prevent you from hearing traffic.
  • Always walk on the sidewalk; if there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic.
  • Stand clear of buses, hedges, parked cars or other obstacles before crossing so drivers can see you.
  • Cross streets at marked crosswalks or intersections, if possible.

 

Walkability, healthier lifestyles focus of new development at Metro Health Village

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Wyoming, , , , , ,

Members of the Granger Group and city leaders turn the first soil for the new $3.5 million Village Life Marketplace in the Metro Health Village.

By Joanne Bailey-Boorsma

joanne@wktv.org

 

Dan Burrill admitted that at first, he didn’t think he was going to like all this retail and all the traffic.

 

“I love it,” said the Wyoming City councilmember at a recent groundbreaking ceremony for a new shoping center in the Metro Health Village. “I love the closeness of everything. I love being able to go to Family Fare and pick up a gallon of ice cream every time I get the urge to mix myself a smoothie or a sundae.”

 

But mostly, Burrill, who lives in the panhandle area, said he enjoys the walkability of the Metro Health Village community.

 

Walkability has been a key aspect for the development of the Metro Health Village, which is the first LEED certified medical campus in the United States, according to Ryan Granger, project manager for the Wyoming-based Granger Group.

 

Granger Group Project Manager Ryan Granger during the ground breaking ceremony for the new Village Life Marketplace

Granger credits his dad, Gary Ganger, for having the vision 15 years ago to partner with the hospital to create a healthy, walkable community and Master Planner James Sharba, who is with a Granger subsidiary SpaceWerks, for bringing “a creative approach to master planning to the remainder of the development.

 

“The intent is to create walkability so we are going to be creating more dense areas essentially to park more people and then create that walkability approach to couple with the health and wellness of the sustainability approach of the development.”

 

This past Monday, Granger Group broke ground on the first of several new developments over the next 12 months — a new $3.5 million shopping center in the front of the Metro Health Village, near the waterfall entrance off of Health Drive. The center, which faces Byron Center Avenue,  is just south from the Granger Group shopping area that has Starbucks and Great Clips. The general contractor is Caledonia’s FCC Construction, which just completed the ReMax offices located across the street of Byron Center Avenue near Monelli’s. Ann Arbor-based OX Studio is the architect.

 

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

 

The new Village Life Marketplace project, which is expected to take about 10 months to complete, is a mixed use development with 11,000 square feet on both floors. The bottom floor will have several retail tenants that include a national TexMex chain, a sub shop and a place that offers smoothies with the top floor to be the home of the Granger Group corporate offices with an additional 2,500 square feet of available office space.

 

The development is part of the overall concept of offering healthy lifestyle options and creating a sense of community within the Metro Village Health.

 

“As we have seen 2008 bring its struggles with the housing crash and the market crash, what we are seeing now is the emergence of micro markets or micro economies.” Granger said. “RiverTown Crossings is a wonderful place for the big box retailers and we also have Tanger Outlets, but what we have here is a very unique approach.

 

“We are kind of in the middle between Tanger and RiverTown Crossings and what this will bring is an opportunity to bring slightly elevated users maybe retailers or clothiers that are looking for a very niche market.”

 

Granger estimated that Granger Group has about 16 acres in the Metro Health Village to develop, which, according to press matierals, are designed to inspire healthier lifestyles.

 

“We are excited to participate in some living options as well that will bring a closer community feel that once they live on campus here they have all their needs meet with a grocery store, with Starbucks, with all these different needs meet through the partnerships we create through retail options,” Granger said.

Football camp helps raise money for Metro Health program

3-bottom, Sports, , ,

Jared Veldheer

By Metro Health Hospital Foundation

 

The Jared Veldheer Football Camp is ramping up for its fifth season of motivating youngsters while raising funds for Keeping the Beat, a foundation program that provides free cardiac screenings for local high school athletes.

 

The one-day camp for kids in grades 3 through 8 will be held July 11 at Grand Rapids Christian High School, 2300 Plymouth Ave. SE. The camp, which is from 5:30 — 8  p.m., is conducted by Jared Veldheer, an offensive lineman for the Denver Broncos, with help from area football coaches.

 

“It’s a joy to work with young athletes and a privilege to share information about heart safety,” said Veldheer, a graduate of Forest Hills Northern High School and Hillsdale College. “By partnering with Metro Health, we can help educate kids and parents about how to stay safe in sports.”

 

To date, the annual camp has raised more than $87,000 for Keeping the Beat. The program invites area high school athletes to Metro Health physician offices throughout the year for enhanced screenings to identify potential cardiac abnormalities. More than 800 teens have received free heart screenings through Keeping the Beat, which supplements the annual physicals required for all high school athletes.

 

Cost is $20 per student. While students are in the sports clinic, parents are invited to attend an informational session on sports injuries, concussions and heart screen awareness.

 

To register, click here. 

5 Local Things You Need to Know: For the weekend, to start next week

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, City of Kentwood, City of Wyoming, Community Health, Education, Health, Holidays, Local Entertainment, Our Cities, Recreation, Senior Living, Upcoming Events, Veterans, , , , , ,

By WKTV Staff

victoria@wktv.org

 

Memorial Day ceremonies planned for both Kentwood, Wyoming

Many communities will be honoring those who have given their lives to serve this Memorial Day, set for May 28, including the communities of Wyoming and Kentwood. More details here.

 

Woodland Mall’s ongoing redevelopment includes viewing wall, relocations

The redevelopment of Woodland Mall is in full swing, and shoppers will soon be able to get a front-row seat to the construction at a new viewing wall. Read all about it here.

 

 

West Michigan Tourist Association offers up a few unique summer camps

Some families probably already have their children’s summer camps selected, but in case you do not, West Michigan Tourist Association Marketing Manager Jeremy Witt offered a few suggestions during a recent visit visit to the WKTV Journal. Learn more here.

 

 

Museum school students create new exhibit ‘Revolution: The Story of America’

Check out the new exhibit created by GRPS Museum School students, titled Revolution: The Story of America, at the Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM). It opened May 23. (The Museum is closed Monday, May 28th.) More here.

 

 

Register now for June 4 Sibling Class at Metro Health

Have kids and expecting a new addition to your family? Register for this class. Children practice caring for a baby using dolls, make a card for their new baby, and have fun with a short tour, which includes a visit to a mom with her real newborn baby. Next class is coming up fast: June 4th. Go here to learn more and where to register.

WKTV Journal: Craig’s Cruisers, Gezon Park, and the premiere of a Vietnamese documentary

3-bottom, , , , , ,

WKTV Staff

In this edition of the WKTV Journal, we take a peek inside Wyoming’s Craig’s Cruisers to look at some of its newest attractions.

 

As WKTV prepares for its live coverage of the FIRST Robotics competition at East Kentwood High School, WKTV’s Allison Biss gives us a look at the high school’s robotics team and the work that goes into building a robot for the big event.

 

Then host Donna Kidner-Smith sits down with Grand Valley State University professor Jim Smither, the coordinator for the GVSU Veterans History Project, to discuss an April 2 event that features the special screening of the documentary “Unforgotten.” The film focuses on what happened to many Vietnamese after the fall of Saigon and life in the re-education camps. The film’s director and co-producer Diem Thuy also joins Kidner-Smith to talk about the film.

 

We also take a look at what is next for the Gezon Park master plan and discover what happened to all those banners that announced the Metro Health – University of Michigan Health merger.

 

Don’t forget, the City of Kentwood’s annual Easter Egg Hunt is on March 31 at 10 a.m. at the Kentwood City Hall, 4900 Breton Ave. SW.

Wyoming partners with local hospital for National Drug Take Back event

3-bottom, Citizen Journalism, ,

The City of Wyoming and Metro Health-University of Michigan Health will help area households dispose of unused medications safely and properly on Saturday, Oct. 28.

 

The City of Wyoming and Metro Health again will partner to provide a Drug Take Back service between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Area residents are encouraged to bring unused prescriptions and over-the-counter medications to the main lobby of Metro Health Hospital, 5900 Byron Center Ave. SW or to Wyoming Department of Public Safety, 2300 DeHoop Ave. SW, both located in Wyoming.

 

Wyoming Public Safety officers will be on hand to anonymously accept medications, including controlled substances, with no questions asked. A pharmacist from Metro Health will be available throughout the event to answer questions about medications. Mercury thermometers may also be exchanged for a new digital thermometer from the City of Wyoming and Metro Health.

 

Growing concern over pharmaceutical pollution in waterways and prescription drug abuse has led cities nationwide to develop drug take back programs. The West Michigan Drug Take Back program is a joint effort between local pharmacies, law enforcement, wastewater treatment facilities and government agencies to provide residents with safe, convenient access to proper medicine disposal. Medications collected in West Michigan are transported to Kent County’s Waste to Energy Facility, where they are incinerated.

 

Metro Health and the City of Wyoming partner twice a year to provide this service to the community. In April, the Drug Take Back Day event took in 652 pounds of prescription and over-the-counter drugs and 25 mercury thermometers.

 

The City of Wyoming also offers a prescription drug drop-off service 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, also at its Public Safety offices in Wyoming.

 

According to the West Michigan Take Back Meds, 20 percent to 60 percent of prescription medications go unused and are eventually disposed. A 2002 analysis by the U.S. Geological Survey of 139 streams across 30 states found that 80 percent of waterways tested had measurable concentrations of prescription and nonprescription drugs, steroids and reproductive hormones. For more on West Michigan Take Back Meds, visit www.wmtakebackmeds.com.