NorthShore University HealthSystem Addresses Area Health Needs, Brings Unprecedented Care to Underserved

Through vital programs like Be Well – Lake County and the LIFE Cancer Survivorship Program, Highland Park Hospital is partnering with the community to bring more healthcare education and resources to the area’s most vulnerable residents. Last year, NorthShore University HealthSystem provided $268 million in community benefits, according to its FY2012 Community Benefits Report. That translates into more health screenings, preventative and specialized care for local residents with the greatest needs.

“Simply put, we could not provide the quality or quantity of care we do without NorthShore as a partner,” said Jeanne Ang, Director of Primary Care Services at the Lake County Health Department and Community Health Center, which works with NorthShore through the Be Well – Lake County program. “Working together, we are bringing real change to the community, especially when it comes to diabetes. Thanks to NorthShore’s support, we can help local residents develop healthy habits that last a lifetime.”

More than eight percent of the adults in Lake County currently have diabetes. Be Well – Lake County is a collaborative effort between NorthShore and the Lake County Health Department and Community Health Center, giving low-income residents the care they need to manage the disease. It’s a model community engagement program, even providing local residents with fresh vegetables from a community garden.

“Given today’s economic realities, it is more important than ever that we partner with the communities we serve,” said Bufi Selimos, Senior Director of Hospitals and Clinics at NorthShore University HealthSystem. “We are focused on delivering the best, most convenient specialty and preventative care options for those in need.”

As part of that commitment, NorthShore offers its Living in the Future (LIFE) Cancer Survivorship Program, which provides support to cancer survivors after they’ve completed treatment. Patients receive personal counseling and advice on navigating tricky issues, such as fertility after chemotherapy. The program promotes constant communication between doctors and cancer patients to help survivors make informed decisions every step of the way.

NorthShore also offers a first responder training program for the community. The program trains Emergency Medical Technicians across the region on advanced life-support procedures, including administering intravenous lines, intubating and defibrillating. Beyond the initial training, NorthShore partners with area fire departments to offer off-site continuing education.

About NorthShore University HealthSystem

Headquartered in Evanston, Illinois, NorthShore University HealthSystem (NorthShore) is a comprehensive, fully integrated, healthcare delivery system that serves the Chicago region. The system includes four hospitals in Evanston, Glenview, Highland Park and Skokie. NorthShore employs approximately 10,000 and has 2,400 affiliated physicians, including an 800+ physician, multispecialty group practice with over 100 office locations. Further, NorthShore supports teaching and research as the principal teaching affiliate for the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine.

The NorthShore Research Institute focuses on clinical and translational research, including leadership in clinical trials and medical informatics. The NorthShore University HealthSystem Foundation is the primary philanthropic entity of NorthShore. The Foundation raises charitable contributions and engages volunteer friends in support of NorthShore’s ongoing mission to preserve and improve human life.

NorthShore has significant capabilities in a wide spectrum of clinical programs, including Kellogg Cancer Center, NorthShore Neurological Institute, cardiovascular care, orthopaedics, high-risk maternity and pediatrics. NorthShore is a Magnet recognized organization, the first in Illinois designated as a system to receive this prestigious honor that demonstrates excellence in nursing and high standards in patient care. NorthShore is a national leader in the implementation of innovative technologies, including electronic medical records (EMR). In 2003, NorthShore was among the first in the country to successfully launch a system-wide EMR with demonstrable benefits in quality, safety, efficiency and service to patients. NorthShore has been recognized by multiple national organizations for this notable achievement.