Author: Kaiser Permanente NW

April 29, 2021

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

• The OCC COVID-19 Vaccination Site: a “Logistical Masterpiece”
• Audio Broadcast Recording and Summary
• Vaccine Appointments: What’s New on KP.org
• KPNW Superhero Award Winners
• RN Career Ladder Update

The OCC COVID-19 Vaccination Site: a “Logistical Masterpiece”

Willamette Week praises the mass COVID-19 mass vaccination site at the Oregon Convention Center. Read the full article here.

Our COVID-19 Regional Command Center co-commanders congratulated everyone who has worked so hard to make the All4Oregon site a reality. Since it was set up nearly overnight in January, we’ve vaccinated hundreds of thousands of members and nonmembers.

“I am so proud of all the people from HP, NWP, and PDA who participated in creating and running this masterpiece,” said Mary Giswold, MD. “Our leaders truly shined. The people of KP showed up in droves to volunteer.”

From Wendy Watson: “It has been a career highlight to see so many people come together in record time to launch and then fine-tune this operation to the state of being called a “logistical masterpiece.” This could not have happened without the collaboration of the 4 health systems, National Guard, FEMA, OHA, Governor’s Office, and many volunteer organizations. We have much to be proud of.”

Audio Broadcast Recording and Summary

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:

Listen to the audio recording (password: kpnw2021). Use the timestamps to jump immediately to specific topics. Topics discussed on April 27:

• Welcome and Community Update | Dr. Mary Giswold (00:00 – 04:15)
• Mental Health Focus: Fear & Vaccine Hesitancy | Margaret Keicher (04:16 – 14:27)
• Clinical Vaccine Update | Dr. Katie Sharff (14:28 – 28:44)
• KP Vaccine Update | Dr. Eric Warshaw (28:45 – 36:08)
• Close | Dr. Mary Giswold (36:09 – 38:15)

Review a summary of the April 27 discussion.

Our next scheduled live audio broadcast is May 11. In the meantime, submit your questions to the COVID19NW@kp.org mailbox.

Vaccine Appointments: What’s New on KP.org?

Today, two patient-centered enhancements are live on kp.org/covidvaccine/nw:

• Do you have a vaccine preference? This question is now part of the decision tree KP.org visitors experience when checking for available COVID-19 vaccination appointments. Preferences include Pfizer, Moderna, J&J, or ‘no preference.’

• Oregon residents can now schedule a COVID-19 vaccination appointment at a KP medical office in Southwest Washington. When checking availability, the SW WA medical offices will now be included as a scheduling option.

Note: Prior direction was to only allow those who lived or worked in a specific state to get vaccinated in that state. This was to help manage supply. This change does not apply to Washington residents who do not work in Oregon, as supply is now more limited in Oregon.

KPNW Superhero Award Winners

Individual Award: Pam Commodore, Clinical Services Manager, Addiction Medicine Department

During a year of change and shifting, Pam was able to champion several projects that address health disparities for people with mental health and substance use conditions.  Read more.

Team Award: Kaiser Permanente Northwest Hospice Volunteer Program

The Kaiser Permanente Northwest Hospice Volunteer Program includes 76 trained volunteers. Their spirit of volunteering is borne from a genuine desire to give comfort, peace, and care to patients and families during the end of life. 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!

RN Career Ladder Update

OFNHP and KP management have been working in collaboration to continue to support RNs who go above and beyond in their professional development and nursing practice responsibilities via participation of the RN Career ladder.

The career ladder review process has been temporarily on hold to allow RNs and nursing leaders to focus on COVID-19-related activities. Due to the ongoing focus on COVID-19-related activities, labor and management are evaluating the possibility of another suspension of RN Career Ladder reviews.

While details are being worked out, this is what you need to know:

• For RNs who are due to submit maintenance applications in May, hold off on your submission efforts. More information will be sent in coming weeks.
• For those of you who submitted new attainment (level 2) and level up (level 3) applications in 2020 or Q1 2021, you can expect to receive details on when to anticipate application review and differential back pay, if your application is approved.

Vaccination Quick Facts

Here is a snapshot of the most current vaccination data as of April 28. Visit the newly enhanced COVID-19 Quick Facts Dashboard for up-to-date, key data on the virus and vaccines.

April 27, 2021

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

• Live Audio Broadcast Today
• J&J/Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine Update
• Find a COVID-19 Vaccination Appointment
• New CDC Guidance for N95 Respirators
• Words from Our Members

Live Audio Broadcast Today

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

• Welcome and Community Update | Mary Giswold, MD
• Mental Health Focus: Fear & Vaccine Hesitancy | Margaret Keicher
• Clinical Vaccine Update | Katie Sharff, MD
• KP Vaccine Update | Eric Warshaw, MD
• Close | Mary Giswold, MD

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#

What COVID-19 topics interest you most? What questions do you want answered? Submit your questions or suggestions to help shape our audio broadcast agendas!

J&J/Janssen COVID-19 Vaccine Update

Kaiser Permanente infectious disease physicians and other experts are reviewing all available data and recommendations from public health officials before resuming use of the J&J vaccine across the enterprise. We expect a KP National announcement will be made soon. When we resume the J&J vaccine, patients or their caregivers will be informed about the benefits and risks of the vaccine in their primary language. Read more here in a special Joint Leadership Message shared on Monday.

You can also review our latest FAQs for members, including this update on the J&J vaccine:

Q: Is Kaiser Permanente now resuming administration of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine?

A: Kaiser Permanente’s infectious disease physicians and other experts are reviewing the information released by the FDA and the CDC related to the lifting of the pause of Johnson & Johnson vaccine administration. Before we resume use of the vaccine, we will be reviewing all available data, including forthcoming interim clinical considerations from the CDC. This process will ensure that physicians and patients have the necessary information for the safe and effective use of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

The health and safety of our members and communities is our top priority. We remain committed to administering the supply of all COVID-19 vaccine we receive equitably and in accordance with all state and federal guidelines. COVID-19 vaccines remain critical tools in fighting this global pandemic and have demonstrated an historic level of safety and effectiveness.

Find a COVID-19 Vaccination Appointment

KP.org/covidvaccine/nw has a fresh new look and helps people find a COVID-19 vaccine appointment. Guide members, employees, family, and friends to the site to find useful links:

• Check Kaiser Permanente guides members and non-members to sign in or create a kp.org account to find and schedule an appointment.
• Search state-approved vaccine providers in Oregon and Washington.
  • Getvaccinated.oregon.gov is hosted by Oregon Health Authority. You can create an account and be notified when a vaccination provider has appointments available.
  • coronavirus.wa.gov/ is hosted by Washington State Department of Health. You can use the Vaccine Locator to find a vaccine appointment.
  • Links to vaccine pages hosted by Lane County, Marion County, Polk County, Cowlitz County, Lewis County public health departments are also listed.
• New! VaccineFinder – a free service where users can search for locations that offer vaccinations in the U.S. It will provide a link to schedule the appointment through the location’s website or with a phone number to call to make an appointment. It is updated daily and is operated by Boston Children’s Hospital and support ted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Digital Service.

New CDC Guidance for N95 Respirators

What’s changing? Staff who normally are issued an N95 for their entire shift can now request and receive a replacement N95 when they take a meal break or rest period that results in the removal of their N95.

Why? The CDC updated its Contingency Capacity Strategies for optimizing the supply of N95 respirators. The new CDC Guidance clarifies when conservation measures can be taken with N95s and under what conditions (Crisis status, Contingency status, and Conventional status). In addition, the CDC Guidance clarified when N95s should not be reused for an extended period.

New guidance: Currently, based on updated CDC guidance and due to the adequate supply of N95s in the KP National inventory and our projection of supply chain stability, health care workers who are required to use an N95 in the course of patient care can now replace their N95s after removal during a meal or break period. They are no longer restricted to one N95 throughout the entire shift.

Documents posted on InfoHub will be reviewed and updated today.

Weekly Testing Turnaround Times

The average routine COVID-19 testing turnaround time (TAT) for the week of April 19 to 25 is 24 hours. Member communications, including kp.org and call center scripts, have been updated to inform members that TAT is usually within 24-48 hours so they can plan accordingly for travel.

Vaccination Quick Facts

Here is a snapshot of the most current vaccination data as of April 26. For more information on vaccination rates by age and race/ethnic group and prime and booster doses by geographic service areas, visit the COVID-19 Quick Facts Dashboard.

Words from Our Members

“I called for information to use to determine how to handle a possible dental emergency in light of the COVID-19 and I am considered a high-risk individual for COVID-19. The answers I received were clear, concise, and doable. The person I spoke to listened attentively, asked precise questions, and responded with just the right amount of efficiency, empathy, and warmth. Kudos.”

April 22, 2021

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

• Feeling Confident About the COVID-19 Vaccine
• Join Tuesday’s Live Audio Broadcast
• National Medical Laboratory Professionals Week
• KPNW Superhero Award Winners
• Vaccination Quick Facts

Feeling Confident About the COVID-19 Vaccine

Getting the COVID-19 vaccine is the best way to protect ourselves, our loved ones, and our communities. Several Kaiser Permanente Northwest physicians offered to help answer some of the most frequently asked questions from KPNW employees. Go to the COVID-19 Northwest page to find “Your Vaccine Questions Answered” in multiple languages, including Vietnamese, from Minh Ho, MD (left). Just follow these links:

• Chinese
• English
• Russian
• Spanish
• Vietnamese

You can hear reassurances about vaccine safety. And consider getting the vaccine if you haven’t yet.

Join Tuesday’s Live Audio Broadcast

Plan on joining the next LIVE audio broadcast on Tuesday, April 27, starting at 12:10 p.m. We’ll be sharing the latest COVID-19 community and clinical vaccine updates, as well as self-care tips and 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.

National Medical Laboratory Professionals Week

We appreciate our laboratory professionals every day. However, the past year has been exceptionally challenging, and during National Medical Laboratory Professionals Week, we want to show our deep gratitude to our scientists, pathologists, and technicians for their dedication, innovation, and expertise during the pandemic. Under such unprecedented conditions, the contributions of our thousands of laboratory professionals enabled Kaiser Permanente to quickly access essential information needed to provide the best treatment and care to our members. Read more and watch a short video here on My KP.

KPNW Superhero Award Winners

Individual Award: Amy Isaacson, Medical Operations Business Services Trainer/Curriculum Developer for Pre-Registration
At the All4Oregon mass vaccination site in Portland, each of the 4 health care organizations were asked to provide a registration lead. For much of February and March, Amy Isaacson represented Kaiser Permanente in this capacity, managing about 60 volunteer registrars. Read more.

Team Award: Oncology Nurse Navigators
As the COVID-19 pandemic worsened, the team of oncology nurse navigators helped develop new integrated workflows and processes to deliver specialized care to all patients who have a cancer diagnosis. Read more.

The KPNW Superhero Award celebrates 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!

Vaccination Quick Facts

Here is a snapshot of the most current vaccination data as of April 21. For more information on vaccination rates by age and race/ethnic group and prime and booster doses by geographic service areas, visit the COVID-19 Quick Facts Dashboard.

April 20, 2021

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

• Vaccine Update: How Kaiser Permanente Northwest is Leading the Way in Our Community
• Guiding Members and Employees: Updated COVID-19 Vaccine FAQs
• $1.1 Million Vaccine Equity Grant
• Surgical and Procedural Standard Operating Principles
• Words from Our Members

Vaccine Update: How Kaiser Permanente Northwest is Leading the Way in Our Community

Two TV spots encouraging Oregonians to get vaccinated were created by KPNW’s Marketing & Communications team, on behalf of All4Oregon – the partnership between KPNW, Legacy Health, OHSU, and Providence.

• Roll up your sleeve and get your COVID-19 vaccine! https://vimeo.com/534653043/09e0357749
• The COVID-19 vaccine is your shot of hope, featuring Jacquia De La Cruz, MD, and Ruth Chang, MD.  https://vimeo.com/536047710/3cc713373b

We’re making an impact: As of April 15, 348,174 total shots have been given at OCC – and 217,871 people have gotten their shot at OCC!

Check out what’s new on kp.org/covidvaccine/nw and encourage members, family, and friends in Oregon and SW Washington to find a vaccination appointment at our medical offices, a mass vaccination site, and state-approved vaccine providers.

Guiding Members and Employees: Updated COVID-19 Vaccine FAQs

Check out the latest updated member FAQs to find answers to member/employee questions such as “Can I get my second dose at a Kaiser Permanente facility if I didn’t get my first shot at KP?” and “I lost my vaccination card. What do I do?”

Here’s the answer to a question we frequently hear:

Q: Why aren’t we prioritizing KP employees and members over others?

A: The COVID-19 vaccine is government property. Getting Americans vaccinated is a community effort. As a trusted distributor of the vaccine, KP is required to make the vaccine available to all eligible people in the community following the criteria laid out by the states we operate in. The criteria does not allow a vaccine distributor to preferentially vaccinate their employees or members.

All KP members and employees may get vaccinated at any site – pharmacies, mass vaccination sites, small community events, etc. Likewise, our clinics need to be open to all people regardless of insurance status. Search for vaccine appointments at KP and non-KP locations on kp.org/covidvaccine/nw.

$1.1 Million Vaccine Equity Grant

Kaiser Permanente in the Northwest is partnering with the Oregon Primary Care Association on an initiative to increase vaccination rates among underserved and communities of color in Oregon. OPCA, a nonprofit membership association of Oregon’s 34 Federally Qualified Health Centers, also known as community health centers, will oversee the distribution of $1.1 million in funding from Kaiser Permanente to 11 CHCs throughout the region. Read more.

Surgical and Procedural Standard Operating Principles

The surgical and procedural standard operating principles have been updated to reflect a recommendation to postpone non-urgent elective surgeries requiring anesthesia for 7 weeks following a COVID+ test, as well as other pre-operative testing and vaccination workflows.

KPNW COVID-19 Trends

From KPNW researchers, scientists, and physicians, effective April 15. Based on review of internal trends and external considerations our findings are:

• Anticipated Surge: OR/WA outbreak is up (R0=1.15). 
• The trending surge, first reported last week, continues. Short-term increases in cases and hospitalizations continue to be expected.​
• Current modeling forecasts moderate impact on hospitalizations in the medium term (mid/late May) overall. With increasing vaccination of high-risk age groups, this is expected to manifest as increasing hospitalizations among younger age groups.
• Internal hospital census (ADC) weekly average was up 6% from last week to this week (15.9 to 16.9). Census was 14 on Apr 14. ADC forecast for this week is 14 by Apr 21 (w. error).
• After many weeks of decrease, we have now begun to see the expected increase in hospitalizations.
• Internal ICU census: Last week’s rate was 10% (prior week was 9%). Rate based on 1 to 2 ICU patients and low COVID inpatient numbers. Internal ICU had 2 patients on Apr 14.  
• KPNW COVID+ weekly average of daily cases up 20% from last week to this week (60.0 to 72.1). The most recent daily case count was 81 on Apr 14. Case count forecast is 76 by Apr 21 (w. error).

Weekly Testing Turnaround Times

The average routine COVID-19 testing turnaround time (TAT) for the week of April 12 to 18 is 21 hours. Member communications, including kp.org and call center scripts, have been updated to inform members that TAT is usually within 24-48 hours so they can plan accordingly for travel.

Vaccination Quick Facts

Here is a snapshot of the most current vaccination data as of 4/19. For more information on vaccination rates by age and race/ethnic group and prime and booster doses by geographic service areas, visit the COVID-19 Quick Facts Dashboard.

Words from Our Members

“All staff were caring and considerate about my condition. They were also professional and considerate regarding COVID-19 safety.”

“I appreciated not having to go to a clinic and I hope the video option is available in the future, even after the concerns about COVID diminish. I found Dr. Sadana to be very helpful and informative. I trust him to manage my care going forward.”

April 15, 2021

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

• Vaccine Update: Latest on J&J Pause
• Audio Broadcast Recording and Summary
• Reminder: Pediatric Patients Allowed 2 Visitors in Hospitals or Clinics
• KPNW Superhero Award Winners

Vaccine Update: Latest on J&J Pause

As announced yesterday, Kaiser Permanente is pausing use of the Johnson & Johnson (J&J) COVID-19 vaccine as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and the Food and Drug Administration. The CDC and FDA called for this pause as they review data on 6 reported U.S. cases of a rare and severe type of blood clot in individuals who received the J&J vaccine. We are reviewing data regarding our administration of the J&J vaccine to identify any potential cases of this rare reaction and will continue to monitor information coming from the CDC and FDA.

KPNW is reaching out to members we know received the J&J vaccine (approx. 3,900) to provide information and support. We are informing them that severe blood clots are extremely rare, but providing clear guidance on symptoms: “In the first 3 weeks after your vaccination, if you experience severe headache, abdominal pain, leg pain, new leg swelling, or shortness of breath, please call our Appointment and Advice Call Center at 1-800-813-2000 (TYY 711) ) or go to your nearest urgent care center. At this time, there is little evidence of side effects a month after vaccination.”

Our supply of J&J had dwindled recently, so we have been able to reschedule or substitute a different vaccine for an upcoming J&J appointment.

Audio Broadcast Recording and Summary

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:

Listen to the audio recording (password: kpnw2021). Use the timestamps to jump immediately to specific topics. Topics discussed on April 13:

• Welcome and Community Update | Dr. Mary Giswold (00:00 – 03:19)
• Self-Care | Dr. Pavan Somusetty (03:20 – 12:35)*
• Vaccine Surge Planning | Michelle Teeples (12:36 – 21:33)
• Clinical Updates | Dr. Steven Spindel (21:34 – 31:54)
• Q&A | All (31:55 – 43:38)
• Close | Wendy Watson (43:39 – 44:28)

Review a summary of the April 13 discussion.

*To jump right to the self-care portion of the audiocast with Dr. Pavan Somusetty, go here: https://vimeo.com/536886235 Password: kpnw2021

Our next scheduled live audio broadcast is April 27.In the meantime, submit your questions to the COVID19NW@kp.org mailbox.

Reminder: Pediatric Patients Allowed 2 Visitors in Hospitals or Clinics

Pediatric patients are allowed 2 visitors – whether in our hospital or ambulatory facilities. If no parent meets screening criteria (i.e. both parents have COVID-19 symptoms or a positive diagnosis) then only 1 parent will be allowed to visit or accompany the child, and that parent must wear appropriate PPE during their entire time in the facility (hospital or clinic).

The current, temporary visitors policy is posted on the COVID-19 NW page and applies to hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, and medical offices.

KPNW Superhero Award Winners

Individual Award: Rachel LeMay, Medical Assistant, Orchards Medical Office Primary Care

On one occasion, a member who was experiencing acute distress came to the clinic to see a behavioral health consultant but found their appointment was scheduled incorrectly. Although it wasn’t part of Rachel’s workload and it was nearing her lunch break, she answered a Microsoft Teams message to help this member. Read more.

Team Award: OB/GYN Social Work Team

Throughout the pandemic year, the OB/GYN social work team has consistently demonstrated their support of the emotional needs of our OB/GYN members. Many new parents struggle with depression and anxiety and often face barriers to get help. This is where our OB/GYN Social Work Team plays a critical role. 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!

Vaccination Quick Facts

Here is a snapshot of the most current vaccination data as of April 14. For more information on vaccination rates by age and race/ethnic group and prime and booster doses by geographic service areas, visit the COVID-19 Quick Facts Dashboard.

NWP 365 Podcast Episode

Final Episode with Dr. Spindel | Dr. Dacones speaks with Dr. Spindel about COVID-19, symptoms, and the Johnson & Johnson (Janssen) vaccine’s safety alert.

April 13, 2021

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

• Live Audio Broadcast Today
• EAP Town Hall: Addressing Anti-Asian Racism and Violence
• Black Maternal Health Week
• Words from Our Members

Live Audio Broadcast Today

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

• Welcome and Community Update | Dr. Mary Giswold
• Self-care during COVID-19 pandemic/recovery | Dr. Pavan Somusetty
• Vaccine Surge Planning | Michelle Teeples
• Clinical Update | Dr. Steven Spindel
• Q & A
• Closing Comments | 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: +16699009128,,91660184663#

EAP Town Hall: Addressing Anti-Asian Racism and Violence Impacting Our Communities

Employee Assistance Program Town Halls are designed to provide support with issues that affect our stress and mental health – especially the impact of COVID-19 and current events.

Join the upcoming EAP town hall:

April 22, 12:30 – 1:30pm PST | *MS TEAMS LIVE EVENT: Addressing Anti-Asian Racism and Violence Impacting Our Communities

We’ll discuss the rise in violence against Asian-Americans in our communities, and how our Asian-American families, friends, and coworkers continue to be targets of racism. Speakers will help us understand the history of anti-Asian American behavior, the impact that racist and violent acts can have on our mental health, and how this knowledge and awareness can be a pathway to a better world for everyone. Bookmark the EAP Town Hall webpage to find more information, get a links for upcoming Town Halls, or watch past recordings.

To make an appointment with your local Northwest EAP Consultant, call 503-813-4703. During these trying times, EAP has temporarily created a 24/7 line for anyone to talk with a licensed counselor (day or night) at 877-801-5751.

KPNW COVID-19 Trends

From KPNW researchers, scientists, and physicians, effective April 9. Based on review of internal trends and external considerations our findings are:

• Anticipated Surge: OR/WA outbreak is up (R0=1.11). 
• The next surge has begun. Short-term increases will continue to be expected.
• The impact of increasing cases is still uncertain due to new variants, roll-out of vaccines, changing weather and mobility patterns, and re-opening of society, schools, economy.
• Current modeling forecasts moderate impact on hospitalizations in the medium term (mid/late May) overall. With rapidly increasing vaccination of high-risk age groups, this is expected to manifest as increasing hospitalizations among younger age groups.
• Internal hospital census (ADC) weekly average was up 51% from last week to this week (10.0 to 15.1). Census was 21 on Apr 7. ADC forecast for this week is 17 by Apr 14 (w. error).
• After many weeks of decrease, we have now begun to see the expected increase in hospitalizations.
• Internal ICU census: Last week’s rate was 9% (prior week was 16%). Rate based on 1 to 2 ICU patients and low COVID inpatient numbers. Internal ICU had 2 patients on Apr 7. 
• KPNW COVID+ weekly average of daily cases up 37% from last week to this week (47.3 to 65.0). The most recent daily case count was 110 on Apr 7. Case count forecast is 70 by Apr 14 (w. error).

Weekly Testing Turnaround Times

The average routine COVID-19 testing turnaround time (TAT) for the week of April 5-11 is 20 hours. Member communications, including kp.org and call center scripts, have been updated to inform members that TAT is usually within 24-48 hours so they can plan accordingly for travel.

Vaccination Quick Facts

Here is a snapshot of the most current vaccination data as of April 12. Visit the newly enhanced COVID-19 Quick Facts Dashboard for up-to-date, key data on the virus and vaccines.

From Awareness to Action: 2021 Black Maternal Health Week

Promote Black Maternal Health Week 2021, April 12 to 16, to inspire our care teams, members, and communities to help eliminate the health disparities that impact Black mothers. Register for these Black Maternal Health Week webinars:

Respectful Maternity Care, Tuesday, April 13, 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.

Dr. Joia Crear-Perry, National Birth Equity Collaborative

Register Now

From Awareness to Action, Thursday, April 15, 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.

Dr. Ronald Copeland, Senior Vice President and Chief of Equity Inclusion & Diversity, and internal KP panel discussion

Register Now Share this flier with your team and post in employee break areas.

Words from Our Members

“It was great that I was able to see my primary care physician, have an EKG test, pick up my prescriptions at the pharmacy, and receive my COVID-19 vaccination, all completed in a single visit in 90 minutes!”

April 8, 2021

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

• Thrive Tip: Seeking Care is Safe and Healthy During COVID-19
• Everyone Ages 16 and Older Eligible for COVID-19 Vaccinations Later in April
• COVID-19 Vaccination Insights
• Why I Got the Vaccine: Monica Serrano
• KPNW Superhero Award Winners

Thrive Tip: Seeking Care is Safe and Healthy During COVID-19

Visits to the doctor and dentist have dropped dramatically during the pandemic because people are nervous about being exposed to COVID-19. In this month’s KPTV Thrive Tip, Dr. Olubukola O. Okafor, Pediatrics, physician-in-charge in Longview, cautions that health issues don’t just go away – and minor conditions left untreated can get worse.

We can all help spread the word that routine medical and dental visits – in-person or virtually – help keep us healthy, and it’s safe to seek care. Reassure friends and family, and direct members to visit kp.org and click on “Get Care.”

Everyone Ages 16 and Older Eligible for COVID-19 Vaccinations Later in April

In line with federal updates, eligibility dates for vaccine in Oregon and Washington have moved up:

Oregon: Beginning April 19, everyone ages 16 and older will be eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. More information is available at the OHA Vaccine Sequencing Infographic.

Washington: Beginning April 15, everyone ages 16 and older will be eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine. For a full description of all phases and tiers in Washington, refer to the Washington Department of Public Health COVID-19 Vaccine site.

Vaccination is still by appointment only. Guide patients to kp.org/covidvaccine/nw to check vaccination appointment availability and schedule an appointment. Beginning this week, an expanded number of medical office buildings began offering the vaccine. However, vaccine supply fluctuates week to week so the number of available vaccinations will vary.

Next Live Audio Broadcast Coming Up Tuesday

Plan on joining the next LIVE audio broadcast on Tuesday, April 13, starting at 12:10 p.m. Note: We plan to offer a live audio broadcast every other Tuesday through June.

What COVID-19 topics interest you most? What questions do you want answered? Submit your questions or suggestions to help shape our audio broadcast agendas!

Why I Got the Vaccine: Monica Serrano

Monica Serrano, manager of Interpreter and Translation Services for KPNW, shares how family health and a desire to get her kids back in school drove her decision to take the COVID-19 vaccine. At the end of last year, a relative who has diabetes spent a week in the hospital due to COVID-19. “The experience was very stressful for the whole family. It enhanced my commitment to help others understand how they can protect themselves by getting vaccinated,” Monica says. Read more here.

COVID-19 Vaccination Market Insights and Trends

KP National teams are looking at market and member insights to plan and adjust our approach to vaccination communications. The following findings were reported April 7:

• All 50 states have expanded or will expand vaccine eligibility to everyone 16 and up by April 19. Oregon expands April 19 and Washington on April 15.
• Enthusiasm for the vaccine is growing, with shift greatest among Black adults, with 55% now saying they have received a dose or want one soon (compared with 41% in February).
• For the first time, more than half of Americans feel confident about knowing where (67%) and when (53%) they’ll get a vaccine.
• J&J vaccine is more popular among people who are somewhat hesitant
• Males have higher intent but lower vaccination rate*
• Older members are likelier to be vaccinated and have higher intent to vaccinate compared to younger members*
• Medicare members have the highest vaccination rate and highest intent to vaccinate*
• Hispanic members have a lower vaccination rate than Black members but higher vaccination intent*

*Source: IRAD and NMR Vaccine Perceptions Survey

Starting today: ‘OpenNotes’ Launches

The 21st Century Cures Act (“OpenNotes”) begins today, April 8, in ambulatory, inpatient, and the care continuum. Inpatients will receive clinical notes in real time, rather than when they are discharged. Review the reminder that was published in the most recent HealthConnect Update.

KPNW Superhero Award Winners

Anita Vinson, Licensed Professional Counselor at Brookside Center Addiction Medicine

Anita, who is considered a high-risk individual for COVID-19, spent most of the early days of the pandemic working from home developing a successful Virtual Intensive Program for Brookside members who were also high-risk and unable to come in for treatment. 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!

Vaccination Quick Facts

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

NWP 365 Podcast Episodes

Episode 148 | Dr. Dacones speaks with Dr. Spindel about COVID-19, vaccines, and symptoms.

April 6, 2021

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

• Expanding COVID-19 Vaccinations at Medical Office Buildings
• Volunteer Opportunities at Community Vaccination Sites
• Note on Isolation Mask Ratings
• KPNW COVID-19 Trends
• Words from Our Members

Expanding COVID-19 Vaccinations at Medical Office Buildings

On Wednesday, April 7, KPNW will increase the number of medical offices offering COVID-19 vaccinations. This expansion will increase vaccine availability in our communities so that we can offer vaccinations closer to home and work, make vaccinations available to high risk patients who are already in an MOB for other care, and strengthen our support for special vaccination events to better reach black, indigenous, and people of color in our communities.

Vaccinations will be available at the following Oregon locations:

Beaverton, Central Interstate, Eugene Chase Gardens, Gateway, Keizer Station, Mt. Talbert, North Lancaster, Rockwood, Skyline, Sunnybrook, Tualatin, and Westside Medical Specialties.

Vaccinations will be available at the following Washington locations:

Cascade Park, Longview Kelso, Orchards, and Salmon Creek.

Vaccination is by appointment only. Guide patients to kp.org/covidvaccine/nw to check vaccination appointment availability and schedule an appointment. Vaccine supply fluctuates week to week so the number of available vaccinations will vary. Medical office appointments typically get released Thursday through Saturday for the following week.

Thank you to every individual and team who is participating in the planning and implementation of this highly coordinated, complex work! We’re rapidly learning and adjusting through your involvement and feedback.

Volunteer Opportunities at Community Vaccine Sites

Many non-clinical employees have reached out asking, “Where can I volunteer? How can I help in my community?” New opportunities are available!

COVID-19 vaccines are becoming more widely available and many community partners are planning and holding vaccine clinics across our region. KPNW employees (nonclinical) are invited to volunteer at these community sites on their own (unpaid) time to help in this historic public health effort.

Virginia Garcia Memorial Health Center is holding vaccine events multiple times per week and looking for volunteers. Details can be found here. In addition, KP Cares will be updated with more community vaccine events in coming weeks. Check back often!

Note on Isolation Mask Ratings

All Isolation Masks provided by KP’s central warehouses meet ASTM F2100 Level 1 requirements, which is the level KP uses to validate masks that are “isolation masks.” A “cover your cough” mask does not have an ASTM rating. You could consider that a “Level 0” from an ASTM perspective and its only claim is that it provides a physical barrier. The main difference between an ASTM Level 1 and ASTM Level 2 masks is the fluid resistance (to synthetic blood) going from 80mmHg to 160mmHg. The difference in pressure is most often used for determining which to use when arterial spray is likely.

KPNW COVID-19 Trends

From KPNW researchers, scientists, and physicians, effective April 2. Based on review of internal trends and external considerations our findings are:

• Anticipated Surge: OR/WA outbreak is up (R0=1.06). 
• We seem to be at a true trend change with short-term increases in cases now expected.
• The impact of increasing cases is still uncertain due to new variants, rollout of vaccines, changing weather and mobility patterns, and re-opening of society, schools, economy.
• Current modeling forecasts increasing low/moderate impact on hospitalizations in the short/medium term overall, due to rapidly increasing vaccination of high-risk age groups, but with increasing hospitalizations among younger age groups.
• Internal hospital census (ADC) weekly average was down 2% from last week to this week (9.0 to 8.9). Census was 9 on Mar 31. ADC forecast for this week is 6 by Apr 7 (w. error).
• Although internal hospitalizations continue to decrease, we have started seeing an increase in cases, so we would expect hospitalizations to increase after a time lag of 1-2 weeks.
• Internal ICU use up from zero. Last week’s rate was 19% (prior week was 1%). Rate based on 1 to 2 ICU patients and low COVID inpatient numbers. Internal ICU had 1 patient on Mar 31.
• KPNW COVID+ weekly average of daily cases up 30% from last week to this week (36 to 46). The most recent daily case count was 65 on Mar 31.

Weekly Testing Turnaround Times

The average routine COVID-19 testing turnaround time (TAT) for the week of March 29 to April 4 is 19 hours. Member communications, including kp.org and call center scripts, have been updated to inform members that TAT is usually within 24-48 hours so they can plan accordingly for travel.

Vaccination Quick Facts

Here is a snapshot of the most current vaccination data as of April 5. Visit the newly enhanced COVID-19 Quick Facts Dashboard for up-to-date, key data on the virus and vaccines.

Words from Our Members

“Excellent care was provided by the entire team staff, from entering the office and getting my temperature taken in case of COVID, to leaving when the kind lady who took my temperature said, ‘goodbye and have a great day!’ In these strange times, it’s the personal touches, not just physical, that means so much and puts a smile on your face!”

April 1, 2021

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

• KPNW Taking Care of Our Community
• Accelerated Access to COVID-19 Vaccinations in Oregon
• Washington State COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution
• Next Live Audio Broadcast
• Temporary Paid Leave, Child Care Grants Extended Until June 5
• Update on Ambulatory Care Facility Planning

KPNW Taking Care of Our Community

We can all be proud of the work taking place in our community to ensure that everyone is informed about the COVID-19 vaccine and has an opportunity to receive it as soon as they are eligible. Check out these recent stories:

Boosting vaccine confidence for Pacific Islanders

On March 13, KPNW in partnership with the Oregon Pacific Islander Coalition and its partner organizations held a COVID-19 vaccine clinic at our North Lancaster clinic. The clinic was created to reach local Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islanders who live or work in Marion County.

Through the 1-day clinic, 160 people received their first dose of the vaccine. Read more here.

As pregnant women become eligible for COVID vaccine, doctors combat vaccine hesitancy | KATU. Dr. Stella Dantas, OBGYN and associate medical director for Ambulatory and Convenient Care, spoke to KATU News about the safety of the COVID-19 vaccines for women who are pregnant or breast-feeding.

Facebook Live Event:Learn more about the COVID-19 vaccines from Dr. Katie Sharff, one of our expert Infectious Disease physicians. Although the event is over, you can listen and share the link with your friends and family.

Accelerated Access to COVID-19 Vaccinations in Oregon

As of March 29, people in Phase 1B Group 6 are eligible to receive COVID-19 vaccine. This includes adults 45-64 with one or more underlying health conditions with increased risk*, pregnant people 16 and older, individuals experiencing houselessness, and others.

Starting April 5, Phase 1B Group 7 eligibility opens statewide. This includes adults 16-44 with one or more underlying health conditions with increased risk*.

Starting May 1, Phase 2 eligibility opens statewide. This includes all people who are 16 and older.

*Recently updated: Underlying health conditions with increased risk as defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):

• Cancer
• Chronic kidney disease
• COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
• Down Syndrome
• Heart conditions, such as heart failure, coronary artery disease, or cardiomyopathies
• Immunocompromised state (weakened immune system) from solid organ transplant or HIV
• Obesity (BMI greater than or equal to 30 kg/m2)
• Pregnancy
• Sickle cell disease
• Type 2 diabetes mellitus

For a full description of all phases and groups in Oregon, refer to the OHA Vaccine Sequencing Infographic.

Washington State COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution

Yesterday, Gov. Jay Inslee announced that effective April 15, all Washingtonians over the age of 16 will be eligible to receive a COVID-19 vaccination. Currently, people in Phase 1B tiers 3 and 4 are eligible for the vaccine. This includes people 16 years or older with 2 or more co-morbidities or underlying conditions, all people 60 years and older, educators and school staff, all workers in health care settings, and many more. For a full description of all phases and tiers in Washington, refer to the Washington Department of Public Health COVID-19 Vaccine site.

Next Live Audio Broadcast

Plan on joining the next LIVE audio broadcast on Tuesday, April 13, starting at 12:10 p.m. Note: We plan to offer a live audio broadcast every other Tuesday through June.

What COVID-19 topics interest you most? What questions do you want answered? Submit your questions or suggestions to help shape our audio broadcast agendas!

Temporary Paid Leave, Child Care Grants Extended

Kaiser Permanente is extending both the COVID-19 paid leave and child care grant benefits through June 5, 2021.

COVID-19 paid leave: This benefit provides up to 80 hours of paid leave if you need time off from work due to COVID-19 symptoms, close contact with a person who is known to have laboratory-confirmed COVID-19, or orders to self-quarantine from a doctor or federal, state, or local authorities. You will need to complete an attestation and let your manager know to code these hours as COVID-19 paid leave.

COVID-19 child care grant: This benefit provides eligible employees up to $200 per week to help pay for child care for children age 14 and younger or dependent disabled adult children. You will need to complete a grant request form each week you need child care. For more information, sign in to HRconnect for details on the COVID-19 temporary benefits as well as other resources such as the employee assistance program. The benefits content on the HR portal will be updated soon to reflect the extension.

Update on Ambulatory Care Facility Planning

A year ago, when COVID-19 first appeared, we closed several medical office buildings and focused more urgently on safety and virtual care. This spring, we’re permanently closing care at 4 medical office buildings: Lake Road, Hillsboro, Murray Hill, and One Town Center. We made the decision to move services from these buildings to continue to embrace virtual care post-pandemic; consolidate services within primary and specialty care locations to better coordinate care; and maximize use of buildings that KP owns and operates. Members paneled to clinicians at those MOBs will be notified by mail.

The moves will happen as follows:

• Lake Road services will move to the Sunnybrook MOB effective in June/July. (Note: Patients who now receive hemodialysis services at our contracted provider DaVita Lake Road will continue to receive hemodialysis services there.)
• Hillsboro and Murray Hill services will move to other Westside MOBs, effective May/June.
• One Town Center services will move to the KSMC campus effective May/June.

While we know these relocations require our patients and staff to embrace change, our members enjoy improved ease and convenience with our continued growth in virtual care options.

KPNW Superhero Award Winners

Individual Award: Kamonrat (Oui) Borowsky, Dental Member Assistant, Cedar Hills Dental Office

Oui (pronounced ooey) always goes above and beyond not just for members but for her coworkers, as well. When redeployed, she always had a smile even in difficult situations, and is always determined to ensure our members always have the perfect experience. Read more.

Team Award: Home Health
During the February snowstorm Home Health registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, social workers, and home health aides were out seeing patients. The Home Health staff don’t get “snow days” and they often put their patients’ safety above their own. Read more.

he 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!

Vaccination Quick Facts

Here is a snapshot of the most current vaccination data as of March 31. Visit the newly enhanced COVID-19 Quick Facts Dashboard for up-to-date, key data on the virus and vaccines.

NWP 365 Podcast Episodes

Episode 146 | Dr. Dantas speaks with Dr. Spindel about COVID-19 vaccines, PPE, monoclonal antibodies, and treatment.

March 30, 2021

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

• Keizer Station Team Boosts Access through Video Visits
• KPNW COVID-19 Trends
• Weekly Testing Turnaround Times
• Vaccination Quick Facts
• Words from Our Members

Keizer Station Team Boosts Access through Video Visits

A Keizer Station team – led by Ruthie Berrell, Dr. Caroline King-Widdall, and Molly Maddox – worked together to improve access for patients through video visits before COVID-19 began. When the pandemic hit, they were ahead of the curve, meeting patients’ care needs. Their efforts have not gone unnoticed: The team received the region’s UBT Excellence Recognition Award for improving service and access. Read more in the latest issue of the Labor Management Partnership digital publication Hank.

KPNW COVID-19 Trends

From KPNW researchers, scientists, and physicians, effective March 25. Based on review of internal trends and external considerations our findings are:

• Anticipated Surge: OR/WA outbreak is now stable (R=0.99), a change from decreasing. 
• We may be approaching a true trend change in the short term and will watch this closely moving forward.
• Longer-term forecasts have much uncertainty due to new variants, slow rollout of vaccines, and potential re-opening of society, schools, economy.
• Current modeling forecasts of future surges beginning later this Spring continue to show low/moderate impact on hospitalizations overall, due to rapidly increasing vaccination of high-risk age groups, but with increasing hospitalizations among younger age groups.
• Internal hospital census (ADC) weekly average was down 23% from last week to this week (11.1 to 8.6). Census was 5 on Mar 24. ADC forecast for this week is 6 by Apr 7 (w. error).
• For internal hospitals the age distribution for admits and census shows a slightly lower average age in March compared to Jan and Feb. When we remove outliers, LOS is reasonably steady across Jan to March. We will continue to monitor.
• Internal ICU has dropped to zero since March 18.  

Weekly Testing Turnaround Times

The average routine COVID-19 testing turnaround time (TAT) for the week of March 22 to 28 is 17.9 hours. Member communications, including kp.org and call center scripts, have been updated to inform members that TAT is usually within 24-48 hours so they can plan accordingly for travel.

What’s New in HealthConnect

The latest newsletter from Michael McNamara, MD, and the Department of Medical Informatics is now available. Some of the many important topics covered:

• How Can I Tell if a Patient Has Received COVID Vaccine(s)?
• COVID Vaccine Care Gap Now on the Patient Storyboard!
• 21st Century Cures Act: Sharing of All Clinical Notes in Real Time

Vaccination Quick Facts

Here is a snapshot of the most current vaccination data as of March 29. Visit the newly enhanced COVID-19 Quick Facts Dashboard for up-to-date, key data on the virus and vaccines.

Words from Our Members

“My husband and I are in our 80s and in pretty good health. Our adult children, some of whom live out of state, have wanted us to get the vaccine. We said OK when it is time because there are so many others who need it more than we do. Plus, we did not want to be on the phone for three or more hours trying to get an appointment (we have no internet), or to drive out to the fairgrounds and wait in our car.

We called Kaiser, our provider, and I got an appointment within three days at Cascade Park. There was a big line, but the staff was overwhelmingly patient, caring and kind. Standing in line waiting was fun because others were there talking about how exciting it would be to hug our grandchildren again. I was also impressed that there was a room for people with wheelchairs and walkers to get their shots and not have to stand.

A week later my husband got his shot and no lines, and he was in and out in less than an hour. We also had no side effects as well. We get our second shot at the end of the month.”