Author: Kaiser Permanente NW

July 14, 2021 

In today’s update, you will find important information, including:

• Headline News: COVID-19 Vaccination Achievements
• Answers to Common Questions from Members: Philips Recall
• What to Know: Changes Coming to Occupational Health
• KPNW Superhero Award Winners: Janey Combs and WMC Perioperative Arena
• Well-Being at KP: Sunday Parkways + New Resources

Headline News

COVID-19 Vaccination Achievements

We’ve transitioned from the COVID-19 Vaccine Command Center into oversight through our regular operations, but we’re continuing to focus on vaccinating our employees and members. Here’s a snapshot of our recent achievements:

Meanwhile, we continue to vaccinate patients in our hospitals. And, we have several goals for ongoing vaccination efforts in our Medical Office Buildings: Ensure access to COVID-19 vaccines in MOBs during open business hours to close the gap with patients during a visit; provide all 3 vaccine products in each service area; offer at least 1 weekend day each week in every service area.

KPNW Employee and Clinician Vaccination Stats: Health Plan is nearly 79% vaccinated. How can we boost that number? The combined vaccination rate for Health Plan, NWP, and PDA is 82%. Vaccines protect all of us – and our patients, families, and communities. Visit the COVID-19 Quick Facts Dashboard for up-to-date, key data on the virus and vaccines.

Answers to Common Questions from Members

What is the latest guidance regarding the Philips recall?

On June 14, Philips Respironics issued a recall of its sleep apnea and ventilator machines because of potential health risks. The recall covers more than 3 million machines – and, locally, affects about 45,000 KPNW patients. With direction from national leadership, KPNW is informing and supporting our patients and clinical teams. Here’s what we’re doing this week:

• Starting to send letters in batches to all affected members, with guidance on what they should do if they use a recalled machine;
• Launching a hotline Thursday for members to call and hear a recorded message. Callers will also have the option to talk with a live representative. We are working toward staffing a dedicated team trained to answer high-level questions about the recall. The recall hotline: 1-855-878-6411, available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Maintaining an up-to-date page at kp.org/PhilipsRecall/nw.
• Working to set up a callback system so members can speak with a clinical expert.

The joint Incident Command Center, led by Leong Koh, MD, VP of Quality, Care Experience, and Patient Safety, and Susan Hobbel, a Senior Administrator for Ambulatory Care, meets daily to coordinate clinical guidance, patient outreach, and supply chain decisions prompted by the recall.

What to Know: Changes Coming to Occupational Health

KPNW is part of an exciting plan to redesign Occupational Health services to better meet the needs of our members and patients. Kaiser Permanente On-the-Job® (KPOJ) is an enterprise-wide program focused on expanding services beyond the current Worker’s Compensation care. Learn more about new clinic openings and our enhanced services.

KPNW Superhero Award Winners

Janey Combs, RN, Team Lead for Allergy

Janey Combs, RN, team lead for the Allergy back office, is a strong leader who always goes above and beyond for her team, providers, and patients. During the pandemic she quickly jumped in to help design a new workflow to continue the care for allergy patients needing injections. Read more.

Westside Medical Center Perioperative Arena

To reduce the post-pandemic surgical/procedural patient backlog, the four Perioperative units –  (Operating Room (OR), Surgical Preparation Area/Post Anesthesia Care Unit (SPA/PACU), Medical Procedure Unit (MPU), and Cardiovascular Lab (CVL) – completed the largest 3-month volume of cases in the history of our hospital. Read more.

The KPNW Superhero Award celebrates this excellence by recognizing the creative and collaborative ways your teammates support our company, our members, and community. Help spread the word! Post the KPNW Superhero Award flier in break rooms, and wherever teams gather for meetings / huddles and nominate your hero today!  

Well-Being at KP: Sunday Parkways + New Resources

If exercise and fresh air are your favorite ways to thrive, here’s an opportunity to get both: The popular Sunday Parkways is back for 2021. Presented by Kaiser Permanente in partnership with the City of Portland, this season’s “Choose Your Own Adventure” activities offer multiple ways to explore the city and have a fun, safe summer. You can also participate virtually. Find more info at the 2021 Sunday Parkways website.

New resources: Check out Rise & Renew – Our Journey to Recovery, new resources on HR Connect to support your mental health and well-being.

Clinician Voices in Our Communities: Supporting Kids During Their Return to School

After more than a year of isolation, kids may experience anxiety about returning to summer activities and school. Pediatrician Eugene Nicholson, MD, shares advice with KPTV Fox 12 Oregon for parents to support kids’ mental health as they move forward. Thank you, Dr. Nicholson, for helping to improve the health of our communities. To listen and share, click here.

Words from Our Members

“I’ve been a Kaiser member for many years. I love all the available doctors and clinics throughout Oregon and Washington. I can always see and get an appointment without any issues. I love the Kaiser app and the fact I can schedule a phone/video visit. I love that my prescriptions are delivered to my home and you have Interpreters available (for my husband and parents). My kids even had the same doctor until she retired!”

July 7, 2021

In today’s update, you will find important information, including:

• Headline News: COVID-19 Update: Did We Make it to 70%?
• Answers to Common Questions from Members: What about COVID-19 Antibodies?
• KPNW Superhero Award Winner Amber Sample
• Well-Being at KP: Summer Celebrations!
• What to Know: Watch for ReadySet Email from Employee Health

Headline News

COVID-19 Update: Did We Make it to 70%?

The national push to vaccinate 70% of Americans ended July 4. How close did we get? Pretty close, thanks to all of your hard work! And there’s no reason to stop encouraging others to get the vaccine – to protect themselves, their families, and everyone in our communities. Here’s where those vaccination stats stand:

Members: 67.2%

Health plan and hospital employees: 78.3%

NWP: 94.6%

PDA: 95%

Visit the 32TCOVID-19 Quick Facts Dashboard32T for up-to-date, key data on the virus and vaccines.

You have 2 more days! Encourage vaccinations by spreading the word about Kaiser Permanente’s ImmUNITY Sweepstakes, open to all of us who have received a first vaccine dose by July 9. Prizes include a family trip to Disneyland, a gym membership, and more! Open to members and nonmembers, too, who have been vaccinated through Kaiser Permanente.

Weekly Testing Turnaround Times (Final Report)

The average routine COVID-19 testing turnaround time (TAT) for the week of June 28 to July 5 is 17.5 hours. Member communications inform members that TAT is usually within 1-2 days so they can plan for travel. (Note: This is the final week for testing TAT reporting in the huddle card. Updates will be provided should TAT increase beyond the 1-2 days average.)

Answers to Common Questions from Members

Will an antibody test show that the vaccine was effective? A positive or negative antibody result is not proof that the COVIID-19 vaccinations have worked or not. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention discourages antibody testing for assessing immunity after getting the vaccine. For more information to share with members, go here.

KPNW Superhero Award Winner

Amber Sample, 2 North Unit Specialist, Kaiser Sunnyside Medical Center

When patients call, Amber does whatever she can, within her scope, to help them. She perseveres through staffing shortages with a smile and makes everyone’s day a little easier, even if they don’t realize it. Read more.

The KPNW Superhero Award celebrates excellence by recognizing the creative and collaborative ways your teammates support our company, our members, and community. nominate your hero today!

Well-Being at KP

It’s Time for the 2021 Summer Celebrations!

It’s time to say thank you for all you do to create more healthy years for our members and make KP a great place to work. Listen to Jeff Collins as he offers a personal message to introduce the 2021 Summer Celebrations. Your manager will provide details on your team’s celebration.

Belonging at KP

his year, KPNW took a larger role in the Portland Pride Parade than ever before – by entering a float! Click here and go to the 7-minute mark to watch and hear about our 75-year commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, and our vision that everyone has the right to equitable health care.

Words from Our Members

“Lab and Imaging was absolutely AMAZING! The lab tech noticed I was a bit stressed and he got me laughing, asking if I needed a cup of water. He also reminded me to breathe. I never noticed he was drawing my blood the whole time. The imaging tech was just as sweet. I was shaking so much she helped me get my necklaces off and made sure they were safe in my purse. She talked to me the whole time keeping me as calm as possible. She, too, asked if I needed any water and I could sit down and wait till I was calm. Thank you!”

What to Know: Watch for ReadySet Email from Employee Health

ReadySet is the new national KP Employee Health Electronic Occupational database. Your MyHealth Portal is your personal access to your Occupational Health Record and how you will comply with Employee Health requests moving forward. Two things to know:

• KP_DoNotReply@axionhealth.com is the email address that all our communication comes through. This is NOT spam, this is not phishing, this IS KPNW regional employee health asking something of you.
• This IS mandatory for ALL staff during their next birthday month (even non-patient care areas, even if previously considered excluded from EH requirements).

July 1, 2021

In today’s update, you will find important information, including:

• Oregon and Washington Reopen – But Our Prevention and Vaccine Work Continues
• Vaccination Quick Facts
• Be Safe on the July 4 Holiday
• KPNW Superhero Award Winner: Chris Markesino, PC Behavioral Health Consultants

Oregon and Washington Reopen – But Our Prevention and Vaccine Work Continues

As of Wednesday, Oregon and Washington have reopened their economies and most of their COVID-19 restrictions are over. We can go back to many of the things we used to enjoy doing before the pandemic began. One main difference between the 2 states: Washington is retaining its mask order for people who are not fully vaccinated. And, as a reminder, health care settings in Oregon and Washington have different mask requirements than other types of businesses.

PLEASE NOTE: Despite the new executive orders, there are no significant changes to patient care at KPNW facilities at this time. Masks are still mandatory in all KPNW buildings – hospitals, clinics, dental, and administrative offices. All other infection control and prevention measures remain in place for all KPNW employees and clinicians, and at all buildings.

Member talking point: If approached by visitors confused about masking guidance, you could say, “Changes in masking policies can be confusing. Health officials still require masks be worn in health care settings. Our Infectious Disease doctors agree, it’s for everyone’s safety.” Thanking patients and visitors who come in wearing masks can also reinforce this important message, in a friendly, positive way.

Meanwhile, our COVID-19 vaccination efforts continue:

• Unvaccinated patients admitted to Sunnyside and Westside Medical Centers are now being offered the single-shot J&J vaccine.
• You have 8 days! Encourage vaccinations by spreading the word about Kaiser Permanente’s ImmUNITY Sweepstakes, open to all of us who have been vaccinated by July 9. Prizes include a family trip to Disneyland, a gym membership, and more! Open to members and nonmembers, too, who have been vaccinated through Kaiser Permanente.
• We continue targeted community health outreach to Black, Latinx, and Pacific Islander communities to close the vaccination gap.
• We’re still pushing to achieve a 70% vaccination rate for our members by July 4 as part of the national month of action. We’re currently at 66.7%.

Vaccination Quick Facts

Here is a snapshot of the most current vaccination data as of June 30. KPNW health plan and hospital employees have hit 78.1%! How can we boost that number? Visit the COVID-19 Quick Facts Dashboard for up-to-date, key data on the virus and vaccines.

Be Safe on the July 4 Holiday

With the Fourth of July weekend on the horizon, we can all do our part to reduce heavy demand on our hospitals’ Emergency Department. All 4 regional health systems that have worked together during the pandemic – Kaiser Permanente, OHSU, Providence, and Legacy Health – sent out a joint message about the upcoming holiday. The highlights:

• We normally expect high caseloads in Emergency Departments from the holiday weekend. This year, it will be even more important to exercise caution.
• Please be careful with fireworks and observe the bans that local agencies have in place, practice water safety, avoid consuming alcohol in the heat, and drink plenty of water.
• Be careful in the heat. The record-breaking heat led to a record volume of cases – mainly related to people suffering heat-related illness. In many cases, the heat has exacerbated existing underlying health conditions such as heart disease and diabetes.
• Hospitals are at or near capacity. Although COVID-19 cases have declined overall, we still have many patients with COVID-19 occupying hospital beds. In addition, surgical demand has generally increased as a result of delayed care due to the pandemic.
• Please do your part! Encourage members (or check in yourself, if needed) to use Primary Care providers about urgent health care needs – or visit the nearest Urgent Care clinic – and reserve the Emergency Department for true emergencies.

Thank you to everyone for your hard work and careful, coordinated management of our member and patient volume. Please be safe!

KPNW Superhero Award Winners

Christopher Markesino, Director of Facilities Compliance, Safety, and Emergency Management

Chris was there when the Oregon Convention Center mass vaccination site was established, and he was there when it was closed. We knew when Chris was on duty, we had a leader we could go to who would listen, address our issues, and follow through to ensure there was a resolution. Read more.

Primary Care Behavioral Health Consultants

Behavioral Health Consultants provide same-day behavioral health support for members in Primary Care. This hard-working team has continued to provide high-volume care to a wide range of members throughout the pandemic.  Read more.

The KPNW Superhero Award celebrates this excellence by recognizing the creative and collaborative ways your teammates support our company, our members, and community. Help spread the word! Post the KPNW Superhero Award flier in break rooms, and wherever teams gather for meetings / huddles and nominate your hero today!

June 29, 2021

In today’s update, you will find important information, including:

• Reopening Oregon on Wednesday
• 10 Days Remaining: Get Your First COVID-19 Vaccine Dose by July 9
• Here’s to the Heat Wave Rock Stars
• Philips Recall Update and FAQs
• Weekly Testing Turnaround Times
• Belonging at KP

Reopening Oregon on Wednesday

On Friday, Oregon Gov. Kate Brown announced that she will reopen the state once 70 percent of Oregonian adults get their first COVID-19 shot or tomorrow, Wednesday, June 30 – whichever comes first.

Masks are still mandatory in all KPNW buildings – hospitals, clinics, dental, and administrative offices. All other infection control and prevention measures remain in place for KPNW employees, and at all buildings, until further notice.

Currently, there are no significant changes to patient care because of the new guidance.

10 Days Remaining: Get Your First COVID-19 Vaccine Dose by July 9

Here is a snapshot of the most current vaccination data as of June 28. KPNW health plan and hospital employees have hit 78! How can we boost those numbers? Visit the COVID-19 Quick Facts Dashboard for up-to-date, key data on the virus and vaccines.

Here’s to the Heat Wave Rock Stars

Thank you to everyone who showed unwavering commitment to our members and patients (and one another) even as temps rose to triple digits this weekend and into this week!

• Thank you to staff in the ED and Urgent Care, who are handling a large volume of patients, including some with heat-related illnesses.
• Thank you to the Engineering teams for keeping our facilities cool and addressing heat and humidity levels in our operating rooms.
• And thank you to Kim Kingsley, a Sunnyside social worker, for hiring a vendor to bring in shaved-ice treats for the ED staff. (The vendor refused to take payment.) As Kristen Rachinski, ED nurse manager, said: “[Kim’s kindness is] appreciated more than words can express.”

Remember how to prevent, recognize, and treat heat-related illnesses.

Philips Recall Update

On June 14, Philips Respironics issued a recall of its sleep apnea and ventilator machines because of potential health risks. The recall has a major impact on KPNW, the only KP region to run its own sleep laboratory and durable medical equipment (DME) operation. The recall affects at least 45,000 KPNW patients, most using PAP or BiPAP breathing machines to treat obstructive sleep apnea at home. Please see the attached FAQs to help answer member questions.

Weekly Testing Turnaround Times

The average routine COVID-19 testing turnaround time (TAT) for the week of June 21 to June 27 is 17 hours. Member communications, including kp.org and call center scripts, inform members that TAT is usually within 24-48 hours so they can plan accordingly for travel.

Belonging at KP

Equity, inclusion, and diversity are inextricably linked to our mission and our history. We were proud to participate in this year’s virtual Portland Pride Parade and share our year-round commitment and promise to the LGBTQ+ community. All for love — and love for all. In case you missed the parade, check out this video of KPNW getting ready to participate.

And, our own Erin Waters, equity, inclusion, and diversity consultant, participated in a Portland Business Journal event to highlight the importance of diversity in the workplace. Read her interview in the PBJ.

Words from Our Members

“All the staff were great. I didn’t require a lot of care, but they were there when I needed anything. Because of COVID I was not allowed a visitor and it was very lonely, but the staff came by just to say “Hi!” Thank you!”

June 24, 2021

In today’s update, you will find important information, including:

• 15 Days Remaining: Get Your First COVID-19 Vaccine Dose by July 9
• Audio Broadcast Recap
• Take Care During Sweltering Heat this Weekend
• Vaccination Quick Facts
• KPNW Superhero Award Winner Nicole Kurkowski

15 Days Remaining

Get your first COVID-19 vaccine dose by July 9 for a chance to win rewards and celebrate a full and healthy return to life’s activities.  We’re getting closer to achieving a 70% member vaccination rate – but our efforts continue because we know that the COVID-19 vaccination protects ourselves and our families, co-workers, members, and patients.

Things to Do Today:

• Spread the word about Kaiser Permanente’sImmUNITY Sweepstakes, open to all vaccinated KP members – and anyone we vaccinate for COVID-19 – who have received a first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine by July 9. A thousand Be Well Rewards include a family trip to Disneyland, a National park rewards pack, a wellness retreat, healthy meal delivery for a year, a gym membership, and personal fitness equipment! Post fliers (attached) in English and Spanish.
• Use the How to talk about COVID-19 vaccines (also attached) when talking to members or patients about getting vaccinated.
• Listen to Dr. Katie Sharff talk to OPB about why this is going to be “an ongoing push and  ongoing project through the rest of the year.”

Take a moment to celebrate all of the hard work connected with COVID-19 – from the patients we’ve cared for to the members we’ve vaccinated. The work you do, every day, matters more than ever.

Get a Recap of the KPNW COVID-19 Vaccine Audio Broadcast

Thank you to all who joined yesterday’s live audio broadcast. If you missed it or want to review and discuss key topics with your team:

• Click here to listen to the audio recording (password: kpnw2021).
• Review the summary here.

Topics discussed on June 22 – Vaccine Update:

• Welcome and Community Update | Dr. Mary Giswold (00:00 – 05:28)
• KP Vaccine Update | Dr. Eric Warshaw (05:29 – 08:58)
• Vaccine Hesitancy Discussion (fertility, pregnancy, breastfeeding) | Dr. Jason Hashima and Dr. Catherine Kent (08:59 – 20:29)
• Clinical Vaccine Update | Dr. Katie Sharff (20:30 – 36:14)
• Infection Prevention Update | Dr. Steve Spindel (36:15 – 42:35)
• Q&A | (42:36 – 47:42)
• Close | Wendy Watson (47:43 – 49:15)

Take Care During Sweltering Heat this Weekend

The extreme heat wave parching the West is moving this weekend into the Portland metro area and Willamette Valley. Forecasts call for temperatures as high as 111 on Sunday. Read about heat-related illnesses and how to prevent them. And consider these safety tips for yourself and our members:

• Listen to a NOAA Weather Radio for critical updates from the National Weather Service (NWS).
• Never leave children or pets alone in enclosed vehicles.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids even if you do not feel thirsty. Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol.
• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays.
• Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day.
• Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat.
• Check on your animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat.

Vaccination Quick Facts

Here is a snapshot of the most current vaccination data as of June 9. KPNW health plan and hospital employees have hit 77.8%! How can we boost that number? Visit the COVID-19 Quick Facts Dashboard for up-to-date, key data on the virus and vaccines.

KPNW Superhero Award Winner

Nicole Kurkowski, Interim Manager, Ambulatory Care Clinical Support Staffing and Scheduling

As interim manager for Clinical Support Staffing and Scheduling, Nicole Kurkowski performs daily COVID-19 support activities. At the peak of COVID-19 deployment, Nicole helped a small and mighty team staff thousands of shifts daily, helping to keep our teams and patients safe. Read more.

The KPNW Superhero Award celebrates this excellence by recognizing the creative and collaborative ways your teammates support our company, our members, and community. Help spread the word! Post the KPNW Superhero Award flier in break rooms, and wherever teams gather for meetings / huddles and nominate your hero today!  

Belonging at KP

June 25, noon to 12:50 p.m.: Deanna Dudley, vice president, Human Resources for Health Plan and Hospitals, will hold the second annual Juneteenth listening session with our BRGs to provide a psychologically safe platform for open, courageous discussion about BIPOC employee experiences.

Erin Waters, a Kaiser Permanente equity, inclusion, and diversity consultant, participated in a Portland Business Journal event to highlight the importance of diversity in the workplace. Read her interview in the PBJ.

June 22, 2021

In today’s update, you will find important information, including:

• Let’s Get Vaccinated! Just 2 Weeks to Hit Our Goal of 70%
• Join Today’s Live Audio Broadcast
• Reaffirming Our Commitment to Equity, Inclusion, and Diversity
• A Message from Jeff, Imelda, and John
• New Ways to Reach Communities of Color
• KPNW Joins Pride Parade with Float
• Vaccination Quick Facts

Let’s Get Vaccinated! Just 2 Weeks to Hit our Goal of 70%

Kaiser Permanente is part of the national effort to vaccinate 70% of American adults by July 4. With just 2 weeks to go, we are in the final sprint! Meanwhile, in KPNW, almost 78% of all hospital and health plan employees are vaccinated. This is impressive, but we know we can do better. If you haven’t gotten your shot, schedule one on kp.org and protect your health, your family, and our members, patients, and community. Getting the COVID-19 vaccine is the fastest way back to all the moments you’ve been missing.

And if you get vaccinated by July 9, you’ll be entered to win a prize in KP’s ImmUNITY Sweepstakes. This is available to anyone vaccinated by KP (members and non-members) and all vaccinated KP members, regardless of where they got vaccinated. Prizes include a family trip to Disneyland, a gym membership, and more!

Join Today’s Live Audio Broadcast

Don’t forget to join today’s LIVE audio broadcast, starting at 12:10 p.m. We’ll share the latest COVID-19 community and clinical vaccine updates and answer frequently asked questions. Here is the lineup:

• Welcome and Community Update | Dr. Mary Giswold
• KP Vaccine Update | Dr. Eric Warshaw
• Vaccine Hesitancy Discussion (fertility, pregnancy, breastfeeding | Dr. Jason Hashima & Catherine Kent
• Clinical Vaccine Update | Dr. Katie Sharff
• Infection Prevention Update | Dr. Steve Spindel
• Q&A | All
• Closing | Wendy Watson

https://sparkstreetdigital.zoom.us/j/91660184663 (Audio only)

Dial In:  +1 669 900 9128   Webinar ID: 916 6018 4663

Or iPhone one-tap: 32T+16699009128,,91660184663#

Reaffirming our Commitment to Equity, Inclusion, and Diversity

A Message from Jeff, Imelda, and John

A message from Jeff Collins, president, Kaiser Foundation Health Plan and Hospitals of the Northwest; Imelda Dacones, MD, president and CEO, Northwest Permanente, P.C.; and John Snyder, DMD, executive dental director and CEO, Permanente Dental Associates, P.C.

Over the past year, our nation has seen a dramatic rise in violence against Black, Asian and Pacific Islander, Indigenous, and other communities of color, as well as the LGBTQ, Jewish, and Muslim communities. And the civil unrest we’ve seen in the wake of George Floyd’s murder, plus the collective trauma so many have endured during the pandemic, underscore the need to embrace equity, inclusion, and diversity as foundational and core to strengthening our organization.

Last week, our national Health Plan and Permanente Federation leaders shared a message that reaffirms our commitment to using our voice, resources, and influence to support equity for all people. The message was clear: There is no place in our communities or workplace for prejudice, racism, and hatred. Period. Continue reading the joint message here.

New Ways to Reach Communities of Color During COVID-19

In Oregon and Southwest Washington, about 1,500 people of color have full COVID-19 vaccine protection thanks to Tracy Dannen-Grace and her KPNW community health team. This work netted new ways of working – and was born of big need.

As the pandemic has made clearer, race and ethnicity matter when it comes to health. Black, Indigenous, and other people of color are more likely to get sick with COVID-19 and more likely to die from it. They’re also less likely to be vaccinated. In Oregon, only 42 percent of Latinx adults, 42 percent of Native American adults, and 43 percent of Black adults have received at least 1 vaccination, state health statistics show. In contrast, about 59 percent of white Oregon adults have received at least one shot.

To reduce COVID disparities, the community health team has supported 3 types of vaccine work this year. Learn how they’ve succeeded in reaching people of color in this story on insideKP.

KPNW Joins Pride Parade with Float

PNW took a greater role in this year’s Pride parade “All4Love, Love4All” – by entering our very own float! CEO Jeff Collins was joined by members of the KP PRIDE business resource group, who are backed by more than 450 members and allies who work year-round to promote an inclusive workplace.

Watch Sunday, June 27 at 4 pm: KOIN (channel 6) and the CW (channel 32) will broadcast the parade, along with special focus stories on each parade partner. Tune in for KP’s special vignette or watch any time on the Pride Northwest YouTube channel. And here is the behind the scenes video that will air on KOIN.

Vaccination Quick Facts

Here is a snapshot of the most current vaccination data as of June 21. KPNW health plan and hospital employees have hit 77.7%! How can we boost those numbers? Visit the COVID-19 Quick Facts Dashboard for up-to-date, key data on the virus and vaccines.

Weekly Testing Turnaround Times

The average routine COVID-19 testing turnaround time (TAT) for the week of June 14 to June 20 is 17.55 hours. Member communications, including kp.org and call center scripts, inform members that TAT is usually within 24-48 hours so they can plan accordingly for travel.

Words from Our Members

“Everybody has become so helpful and kind especially now when we are finally getting past this terrible COVID-19 pandemic—Kaiser Permanente excellence!”

“I love the convenience of video conference and hope it continues after COVID is a memory. My doctor is the best there is!”

June 17, 2021

In today’s update, you will find important information, including:

• Kudos on SW Washington Vaccination Efforts
• Join Tuesday’s Live Audio Broadcast
• Reminder: Mass Vaccination Site Closes on Saturday
• Vaccination Quick Facts
• Revised Temporary Visitors’ Policy Takes Effect Monday, June 21
• KPNW Superhero: Kyle Hoelscher; NLR Pacific Islander Vaccination Team; Sunset Salud
• Guiding Our Members: Philips Respironics Recall

Kudos on SW Washington Vaccination Efforts

Washington Gov. Jay Inslee visited Cascade Park Medical Office Building this week to thank our staff for all their efforts to get Southwest Washingtonians vaccinated, including a special focus on the Pacific Islander community. He met several Kaiser Permanente staff and clinicians, including Dr. Mary Giswold (left), COVID-19 Co-Commander; Martina Fetter, Senior Administrator, Ambulatory Care; Akiko Betcher, Community-Clinic Integrator – Pacific Islander community liaison; Jacinta Galeai, Pacific Islander Community Association of Washington; Dr. Tanner Pinney, retired Northwest Permanente physician volunteer; Diana Byrd, RN TL CPK; John Guffey, Pharmacy Manager, Dr. Khurrum Naqvi, PIC; and clinic managers Tina Stockton and April Jackson.

Check out these stellar SW Washington vaccine stats!

• The KPNW North Service Area has provided more than 70,000 vaccinations.
• Cascade Park Medical Office Building has provided 46,000 vaccinations.
• Longview Kelso Medical Office Building has provided 20,000 vaccinations.
• 46 Pacific Islanders have been vaccinated through a special Saturday vaccination program.
• 117 homebound patients and caregivers have been vaccinated.
• KP gave a $150,000 grant to the Pacific Islander Community Association of Washington to increase awareness and confidence.

Join Tuesday’s Live Audio Broadcast

Plan on joining the next LIVE audio broadcast on Tuesday, June 22, starting at 12:10 p.m. We’ll be sharing the latest COVID-19 community and clinical vaccine updates, as well as answers to your most frequently asked questions.

https://sparkstreetdigital.zoom.us/j/91660184663 (Audio only) Dial In:  +1 669 900 9128  

Webinar ID: 916 6018 4663. If you’re unable to join, a recording will be provided on Wednesday.

Submit your questions or suggestions for future audio broadcast topics.

Reminder: Mass Vaccination Site Closes on Saturday

The All4Oregon COVID-19 mass vaccination site at the Oregon Convention Center is closing Saturday, June 19. People who go to the OCC for their first-dose vaccine could get one of the remaining $100 gift cards from Fred Meyer. And, at the OHSU drive-thru clinic at PDX, people getting their first-dose vaccine could get one of the remaining Fred Meyer and Safeway gift cards (Pfizer, Moderna, and J&J vaccine).  Gift cards will be given out while supplies last.

Vaccination Quick Facts

Here is a snapshot of the most current vaccination data as of June 9. KPNW health plan and hospital employees have hit 77.6%! How can we boost that number? Visit the COVID-19 Quick Facts Dashboard for up-to-date, key data on the virus and vaccines.

Revised Temporary Visitors’ Policy Takes Effect Monday, June 21

The Temporary Visitors’ policy has been revised to reflect the decrease in COVID-19 cases in the region. Notable changes include: (1) Visitors may accompany patients in medical and dental offices, Members will be encouraged to be accompanied only by people who are essential for support. (2) In-patients (including COVID-19 patients) may have two visitors per day, with certain provisions, and (3) Patients in double-occupancy rooms will not be allowed visitors. All patients and visitors, regardless of COVID-19 vaccine status, must wear a mask at all times while in a KP facility. The implementation date is Monday, June 21. Details may be found in Policy Tech under NW Region COVID-19 Policy.

KPNW Superhero Winner KPNW Superhero Award Winners

Kyle Hoelscher, RN Team Lead, East Interstate Medical Office

Kyle started as a new employee with Kaiser Permanente as a team lead for Primary Care just before the pandemic hit. Despite being new, he rose to the challenge. Whether it was setting up testing sites, running the vaccination program, figuring out how to safely see members and keep his team safe, Kyle handled it with grace and a good attitude.  Read more.

Kaiser Permanente North Lancaster (NLR) Pacific Islander Vaccination Team

The Sunset Salud Team

The Sunset Salud team recently conducted two culturally focused vaccine events for Latino Kaiser Permanente members at the Rockwood and Sunset medical offices. The events were organized to offer a comfortable and convenient environment for our Latinx population to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.  Read more.

The KPNW Superhero Award celebrates this excellence by recognizing the creative and collaborative ways your teammates support our company, our members, and community. Help spread the word! Post the KPNW Superhero Award flier in break rooms, and wherever teams gather for meetings / huddles and nominate your hero today!

David Lawrence Community Service Award

Do you know a colleague who has passion and purpose in the community? Submit your nomination for the David Lawrence Community Service Award by Friday, July 9, 2021.

Belonging at KP

Join the National KPAAPA Juneteenth Teams Meeting: Juneteenth: Healing Black Trauma: Rest. Restore. Rebuild, June 18, at 12 to 1:15 p.m. Register to attend.

2021 Good in the Hood Multicultural Music and Food Festival: Free virtual festival June 26 and 27. Sponsored in part by the KPAPPA BRG. Register to attend.

Portland Virtual Pride Parade: This year Kaiser Permanente is sponsoring the virtual Portland Pride Parade event, Sunday, June 20, as a  live stream event. KPNW will be visible via a float.

Use Pronoun Signature Options: Use our new brand-approved pronoun signature options in your email signatures and share your preferred pronouns in your interactions.

Guiding Our Members: Philips Respironics Recall

Philips Respironics issued a voluntary recall notice on June 14 of its sleep apnea and ventilator machines because of potential health risks. We are currently investigating the impact to our members. For more information, refer to the attached talking points to help guide our members. It includes links to more information on the Philips sleep and respiratory care update page.

June 15, 2021

In today’s update, you will find important information, including:

• Oregon’s “Logistical Masterpiece” Closes on Saturday
• Updated! FAQs to Answer Member Questions
• Clinicians Can Direct-Book COVID-19 Vaccine Appointments
• COVID-19 Trends
• Vaccination Quick Facts
• Co-Administration of Vaccines

Oregon’s “Logistical Masterpiece” Closes on Saturday

The All4Oregon COVID-19 mass vaccination site at the Oregon Convention Center is closing Saturday, June 19, after 151 days and more than 500,000 vaccinations.

As part of its partnership with the White House, Kaiser Permanente is going the extra mile to get 70% of Americans vaccinated by July 4. You can help by encouraging members, co-workers, family members, neighbors, and friends, to get their shots. And by getting yours, too!

The OCC was dubbed a “logistical masterpiece” in this story by Willamette Week. As part of the National Month of Action against COVID-19, people who go to the OCC for their first-dose vaccine could get one of 800 $100 gift cards from Fred Meyer. And, at the OHSU drive-thru clinic at PDX, approximately 800 Fred Meyer and Safeway gift cards will be given out (Pfizer, Moderna, and J&J vaccine).  Gift cards will be given out while supplies last.

Anyone who gets vaccinated at the OCC could also win a prize in KP’s ImmUNITY Sweepstakes. The sweepstakes is open to anyone vaccinated by KP (members and non-members) and all vaccinated KP members, regardless of where they got vaccinated.

You can be a vaccine advocate! With only a few weeks before July 4, and fewer than 100,000 Oregonians to vaccinate, we can meet our state and national goal.

Updated! FAQs to Answer Member Questions

Two Member Service Contact Center Q&As have been updated to help answer questions from members about COVID-19. These updates to the general and vaccine versions of the COVID-19 documents are also attached. Please use these documents to replace earlier versions. New topics include:

Q: Can you tell me about the sweepstakes Kaiser Permanente has for vaccinated

people?

A: Yes. It’s called the ImmUNITY Sweepstakes and it’s open to anyone age 12 and older who has been vaccinated by Kaiser Permanente (at one of our facilities or one of the qualifying Kaiser Permanente-sponsored vaccination sites) and all vaccinated Kaiser Permanente members, even if they weren’t vaccinated by Kaiser Permanente. One thousand people will win Be Well Rewards that include wellness retreats, healthy home meal delivery, personal training equipment, gym memberships, and family trips to theme parks and national parks. This sweepstakes will encourage vaccination while also supporting a full and healthy return to activities. Kaiser Permanente members who will not be vaccinated due to a health condition or sincerely held religious belief are also eligible.

Clinicians Can Direct-Book COVID-19 Vaccine Appointments

Clinicians can now book vaccinations while talking with members in the clinic or virtually. Outreach by clinicians is a key component in helping to vaccinate hesitant patients. To help ease the process, and get more members and patients vaccinated, clinicians can now directly book vaccine appointments at the end of a conversation. How? In HealthConnect, search VACC COVID in the order search to find the VACC COVID-19, 1ST DOSE APPT [259783]. Associate diagnosis of “VACCINATION FOR SARS-COV-2” and sign the order. Then click on the order clipboard (1) and then the calendar icon (2). Answer a few questions and select an appointment. That’s it!

COVID-19 Trends

From KPNW researchers, scientists, and physicians, effective June 14. Based on review of internal trends and external considerations our findings are:

• OR/WA is past the latest surge. After plateauing for several weeks, statewide hospital census has followed the trend in cases and has dropped over the past week; KPNW census has continued to decline. 
• Reff is plateauing below 1.0, suggesting lower cases and census moving forward.
• Increased variant spread and rapid reopening may lead to a slower decline in new cases than would otherwise be expected, but at this point, further surges are unlikely due to continued increases in vaccination.
• Internal hospital census (ADC) weekly average was down 29% from last week to this week (20.4 to 14.4). Census was 13 on June 12. ADC forecast for this week is 15 by June 20 (w. error).
• Internal ICU census weekly average was down from last week to this week (6.7 to 6.1). Internal ICU had 4 patients on June 12.  ICU patients were 31% of COVID+ internal hospital census on June 12.
• KPNW COVID+ weekly average of daily cases was down 3% from last week to this week (30 to 29). Case count forecast is 19 by June 20 (w. error).

Vaccination Quick Facts

Here is a snapshot of the most current vaccination data as of June 14. KPNW health plan and hospital employees have hit 77.3%! How can we boost those numbers? Visit the COVID-19 Quick Facts Dashboard for up-to-date, key data on the virus and vaccines.

Co-Administration of Vaccines

Our guidelines last week were updated for co-administration of COVID-19 vaccines with other types of vaccinations. Thanks to Katie Sharff, MD, for her work with the national KP team on this issue. Read the updated guidance on the COVID-19 InfoHub here.

Weekly Testing Turnaround Times

The average routine COVID-19 testing turnaround time (TAT) for the week of June 7 to June 13 is 18 hours. Member communications, including kp.org and call center scripts, inform members that TAT is usually within 24-48 hours so they can plan accordingly for travel.

Words from Our Members

“We’re new to Kaiser Permanente Northwest after more than 30 years with Kaiser Permanente in Southern California. I don’t know how much difference COVID has impacted normal waiting times, but Kaiser Permanente Northwest is much more efficient and wait times much less than in Southern California. I’m used to always bringing a book with me, but here I barely sat down in the waiting area before I was called. EXCELLENT service here!”

June 10, 2021

In today’s update, you will find important information, including:

• $100 Gift Cards! Prizes! COVID-19 Protection!
• Vaccination Quick Facts
• KPNW Audio Broadcast Recap
• Homebound Vaccination Program a Model for Success
• KPNW Superhero Kerianne Mokuau, Pre-Boarding Coordinator

$100 Gift Cards! Prizes! COVID-19 Protection!

Kaiser Permanente is all in when it comes to the goal set by the White House: 70% of Americans will be vaccinated by July 4. In KPNW and across our entire KP organization, we have been actively vaccinating our members, our communities – and ourselves – for the past 6 months. Now is the time to push to achieve the goal of having 70% of Americans vaccinated by July 4, 2021.

First up, giveaways! You can:

• Get a $100 gift card with your first dose vaccine! Oregon Health Authority is providing 1,600 gift cards of $100 each. Of those cards, approximately 800 Fred Meyer gift cards will be given out at the OCC, starting June 12 (J&J vaccine). And, starting June 11 at the OHSU drive-thru clinic at PDX, approximately 800 Fred Meyer and Safeway gift cards will be given out (Pfizer, Moderna, and J&J vaccine). Check the All4Oregon site for walk-in hours or to make an appointment. Gift cards will be given out on a first-come, first-served basis, while supplies last.
• Win a prize in KP’s ImmUNITY Sweepstakes. This is available to anyone vaccinated by KP (members and non-member) and all vaccinated KP members, regardless of where they got vaccinated.

Kaiser Permanente is Joining the National Month of Action against COVID-19. To support White House efforts to boost vaccinations, we’re offering $10 million in grants and giving away Be Well Rewards to 1,000 vaccinated people. You can read more from our KPNW leaders. In KPNW, we also plan to launch a social media campaign to engage 18- to 30-year-olds; and give grants to community-based organizations, including nearly $1 million in grants to reach underrepresented patients via mobile vaccine clinics.

And note: In Oregon, we need fewer than 100,000 people to go before reopening. According to Governor Kate Brown, 67.1% of Oregonians 18+ are now vaccinated with a first dose—which means we need 97,168 more people to get their shot. Once we cross 70% statewide, we can begin to more fully reopen our economy.

And check out local media!

KOIN: https://playvideo.bulletinintelligence.com/5d3fb3c7e768485c9d10d96bacbe99a7?pubid=kp

KPTV: https://playvideo.bulletinintelligence.com/366aef19ce924ebba22e4676ed8d7583?pubid=kp

KATU https://app2.cision.com/#/articles/150001113791380

KGW: https://www.kgw.com/article/news/health/coronavirus/vaccine/rush-to-vaccinate-against-covid-19-opportunities-and-incentives/283-5a2947db-324f-45cc-a47b-9de8bf8e3c23

Vaccination Quick Facts

Here is a snapshot of the most current vaccination data as of June 9. KPNW health plan and hospital employees have hit 77.3%! Members are at 63.3%! How can we boost those numbers? Visit the COVID-19 Quick Facts Dashboard for up-to-date, key data on the virus and vaccines.

KPNW Audio Broadcast Recap

Thank you to all who were able to join Tuesday’s live audio broadcast. If you missed it or want to review and discuss key topics with your team:

• Click here to listen to the audio recording (password: kpnw2021).
• Review the summary here.

Topics discussed on June 8:

• Welcome and Community Update | Wendy Watson (00:00 – 06:44)
• KP Vaccine Update | Dr. Eric Warshaw & Michelle Teeples (06:45 – 15:13)
• Clinical Vaccine Update | Dr. Katie Sharff (15:14 – 33:24)
• Q&A | (33:25 – 43:35)
• Close | Dr. Mary Giswold (43:36 – 44:17)

Submit your questions or suggestions for future audio broadcast topics.

Homebound Vaccination Program a Model for Success

Hundreds of patients in Oregon and Southwest Washington can’t leave their homes because of age, disability, or illness. How can these vulnerable adults get vaccinated? Read more about how Anna Riedel, Continuum of Care service area director for the West and Mid-Valley, sprang into action in January to create KPNW’s first-ever, large-scale home vaccination program. Katie Sharff, MD, Preston Peterson, MD, and Kevin Varner at NW Permanente created patient eligibility criteria and designed the vaccination delivery model. In Oregon, Kaiser Permanente partnered with MetroWest, whose EMTs and paramedics visited members who could not attend a vaccination clinic. And in Washington, Mary Shepard, MD, a retired NWP internist, returned to work soon after the pandemic hit. “I wouldn’t feel right just sitting at home and not helping,” she said.

KPNW Superhero Winner

Kerianne Mokuau, Pre-Boarding Coordinator, Talent Acquisition Operations
From February through April of this year, Kerianne supported Volunteer Services by screening hundreds of incoming volunteers to support the COVID-19 vaccine clinic at the Oregon Convention Center. She did not miss a beat when the work accelerated from a crawl to an all-out sprint with more than 1,300 applications submitted. Read more.

The KPNW Superhero Award celebrates this excellence by recognizing the creative and collaborative ways your teammates support our company, our members, and community. Help spread the word! Post the KPNW Superhero Award flier in break rooms, and wherever teams gather for meetings / huddles and nominate your hero today!  

June 8, 2021

In today’s update, you will find important information, including:

• Join Today’s Live Audio Broadcast
• Remind Patients: Masks are Still Required
• Eye Protection Requirements Remain Unchanged
• Vaccination Quick Facts
• Words from Our Members

Join Today’s Live Audio Broadcast

Tune in today for our LIVE audio broadcast, starting at 12:10 p.m. Topics on the agenda include:

• Welcome & Community Update | Wendy Watson
• KP Vaccine Update | Dr. Eric Warshaw and Michelle Teeples
• Clinical Vaccine Update | Dr. Katie Sharff
• Q&A | All
• Closing Comments | Dr. Mary Giswold

https://sparkstreetdigital.zoom.us/j/91660184663 (Audio only)

Dial In:  +1 669 900 9128   Webinar ID: 916 6018 4663

Or iPhone one-tap: +16699009128,,91660184663#

Remind Patients: Masks Are Still Required

When helping patients with appointments, and when greeting them upon arrival, please inform them that masks are required in all Kaiser Permanente facilities. The May 13 CDC guidance eased mask-wearing recommendations for vaccinated people in public places, however, the recommendations do not apply to health care settings.

With the removal of greeters at most medical and dental office buildings, we have put up signs to remind members as they enter our facilities. If you need support in reminding members about the policy, consider saying: “Welcome in! For your safety and the safety of others, state health departments are continuing to require anyone age 2 or older to wear a face mask whenever they are in one of our buildings. If you do not have one with you, I am happy to provide one for you. Thank you.”

Eye Protection Requirements Remain Unchanged

The guidance dated 11-20-2020 is still in effect. Universal eye protection is currently REQUIRED for all encounters with patients since we’re experiencing moderate to substantial community transmission of COVID-19. Wearing eye protection in addition to a face mask or an N95 ensures the eyes, nose, and mouth are all protected from exposure to respiratory secretions during encounters in health care settings.

Vaccination Quick Facts

Here is a snapshot of the most current vaccination data as of June 7. Visit the COVID-19 Quick Facts Dashboard for up-to-date, key data on the virus and vaccines.

Weekly Testing Turnaround Times

The average routine COVID-19 testing turnaround time (TAT) for the week of May 31 to June 6 is 15.6 hours. Member communications, including kp.org and call center scripts, inform members that TAT is usually within 24-48 hours so they can plan accordingly for travel.

Words from Our Members

“Kaiser Permanente has done an amazing job in responding to the needs of patients during the COVID pandemic as well as in better times. I have been a member for 43 years, starting at Kaiser Permanente Sunset in Los Angeles! I have been a Patient Partner for about 5 years, and I love being able to provide the patient voice. It is because our Staff is on board and embraces patient and family centered care that we are a five-star system! What more could we ask?”