Showing posts with label Evergreen. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Evergreen. Show all posts

Wednesday, November 5, 2025

King County Election Outcomes Affecting Redmond

credit KIRO

STATE 148th LD  
Osman Salahuddin 10,974,   68.24%
Dennis Ellis              5,078,   31.58%

KING COUNTY EXECUTIVE (too close to call)
C. Zahilly    133,804,    51%
C. Balducci 129,459,    49%

KING COUNTY REPRESTATIVE
Sarah Perry     21,438, 66.8%
Bob Wotton    10,545, 32.9%

REDMOND CITY COUNCIL
Melissa Stuart  4,431,  75%
Kay Asai          2,796,   25%

REDMOND CITY COUNCIL
Vivek Prakriya 3,971,  62%
Steve Fields     2,405,  38%

REDMOND CITY COUNCIL
Menka Soni         3,450, 55%
J. Anderson          2,796, 25%

LAKE WASHINGTON SCHOOL DISTRICT DIRECTOR #4
Aspen Richter, 19,408, 72.99%
Kim Martin,       7,092, 26.58%

EVERGREENHEALTH HOSPITAL COMMISSIONER #5
Robin Campbell   73,655,  73,65%
Gary Harris             9,333,  25.75%

Candidate names in red are projected winners.  Votes are counted every day with results posted on the King County Elections website at 4:30 p.m.  

Saturday, November 1, 2025

ADHD Awareness Month


Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Awareness Month

The many faces of ADHD

Do you know that one third of children with ADHD develop Adult ADHD?  

Video on teen ADHD (with brief information on Tourette's tics)  4 m. 

Data and Stats on ADHD - Center for Disease Control.

NAMI Eastside webinar on ADHD, sponsored by EvergreenHealth, 1 hour.

-- Reported by Bob Yoder, 10/31/2025  

Sunday, October 26, 2025

EvergreenHealth Commission Educational Session


 MINUTES:  

EvergreenHealth Educational Session meeting, August 1, 2025, 7 AM 

Present:  CEO, Commissioners, Staff
  • Plymouth Housing - the model, performance, the intent
  • UW Clinical professor discusses problems with the U.S. Healthcare systems compared to other countries. 
  • Levy lid lift benefits. 
Meetings are held in the Surgeons and Physicians Pavilion #Tan 250 and are open to the public. 

-- Bob Yoder, 10/26/25

Monday, October 20, 2025

EvergreenHealth CEO Ettore Palazzo Connects With Sammamish City Council


EvergreenHealth CEO Ettore Palazzo, MD, FACP, presented the "State of Healthcare" to the City of Sammamish Council on October 14th, answering several questions from Mayor Karen Howe and council members. Premi
Chief Executive Officer3 days ago • Edited • Visible to anyone on or off LinkedIn
"It is the honor of a lifetime to serve as the Superintendent and CEO of EvergreenHealth. One of the aspects I enjoy most about the role is the opportunity to connect with the many cities and municipalities within the public hospital district.

Thank you to the City of Sammamish Council for the opportunity to provide an update on EvergreenHealth and to share insights on the ever-evolving healthcare landscape."

“We look forward to partnering with you to continuously improve our shared community of care. EvergreenHealth is proud to serve Sammamish & the entire Eastside community with high quality healthcare,” said Dr. Palazzo.

-- LinkedIn, 10/20/25

Wednesday, October 15, 2025

Medicaid Funding Cut In Every State

 

March, 2025 Medicaid presentation by EvergreenHealth CEO Dr. Ettore Palazzo and Senator Maria Cantwell

"Friendly nurse reminder: in WA state, Medicaid is referred to as Apple Health. Medicaid funding is being cut. This could lead to up to ~14 rural hospitals shutting down in 2026 or 2027. The Washington State Hospital Association is advocating at the federal level to protect our rural hospitals from these cuts.

Neither EvergreenHealth or Overlake are on that list but there are layoffs reported at Overlake (possibly related to the cuts) per the Worker adjustment and retraining notification (WARN) layoff and closure database.

So far no layoffs at EvergreenHealth; and it appears no layoffs at Overlake are attributed to Medicaid cuts at this time.

But what does this list mean for you all? Be prepared for longer waits at urgent care and the ER as more patients need to be seen at fewer hospitals AND people start losing insurance and cannot afford to be seen at primary care/urgent care and thus cannot keep up with preventative care.
Try your best to practice preventative care and to treat minor injuries/illnesses promptly so they do not become "BIG" concerns that need the ER or hospitalization."

Source: Recent Kirkland FB group post.

Not every state is cutting Medicaid yet, but they eventually will. Most of the provisions in the 2025 budget reconciliation bill—HR 1—have yet to go into effect and these cuts will have a devastating impact on state budgets. Analysis shows that HR 1 will cut federal Medicaid spending by $1 trillion over ten years. 
-- Source: Internet, Oct 2. 2025

North Carolina and Idaho have already announced plans to cut Medicaid payments to health care providers, including hospitals, doctors, and caregivers.

In Michigan and Pennsylvania — where lawmakers have yet to pass budgets this year — spending on Medicaid is part of those debates. In Washington state, lawmakers approved cuts to the program that will not affect who is eligible, said Hayden Mackley, a spokesperson for the state’s Office of Financial Management.

Source:  Internet, 9/2025

Bob Yoder, updated 10/16/25

Sunday, October 12, 2025

Discussing Mental Health with King County Executive Candidates

Please listen to the video for accuracy and completeness. The last half is most telling.  

The major theme was managing (Balducci) and coordinating (Zahilay) resources to achieve a continuum of care.  Implementation of voter-approved behavioral health resources is terribly slow (Balducci.) Zahilay listed his coalitions that will disrupt the cycle of addiction and improve behavioral health care.  Balducci insisted the revolving door should have only one entrance.  She stressed wider use of medical records towards this end.

Financial pressure:  Balducci has working experience with state officials on both sides of the aisle.  Prioritization and accountability of spending is needed for this and other levies.  Zahilay co-sponsored the new stabilization .1% sales tax -- 10 cents on a $100 purchase!)  This tax funds 1) fewer sheriff layoffs 2) gun and domestic violence advocacies, 3) courts / victim support, 4) behavioral health treatment.  Balducci said needs evolve and these funds need re-prioritization; accountability, with proactive audits and quarterly reports.     

Youth struggles:  Balducci has one child who did benefit from mental health support after COVID lockdowns. She supports providers (LWSD  councilors, Y.E.S. EvergreenHealth councilors, NAMI.)  Zahilay organized a stakeholder youth group to focus on solutions.  

Full DisclosureI lean towards Balducci because I know her better. I just like her.  I've chatted with her at Redmond City Hall meetings and a Hero House gala, I see her riding a bicycle everywhere; not just for transit awareness but demonstrating that exercise is awesome for mental health. She's the county's representative for EvergreenHealth community hospital, She participates with the community in social media, including my blog.  😊

- Bob Yoder, 10/12/2025
  Sources:  Seattle Times & Seattle/King County League of Women Voters forum, 10/9/25

Monday, October 6, 2025

EvergreenHealth Among Nation's Top 100 Community Hospitals

Becker's Hospital Review has named EvergreenHealth Medical Center in Kirkland among the nation's 100 great community hospitals for 2024. EvergreenHealth was selected for improving the health of their communities, staying focused on personalized care and clinical excellence. Our 354-bed hospital is only one part of our system, which is community-owned. As a public hospital district, EvergreenHealth also provides health outreach, community education and free services that benefit the community as a whole.

logo for beckers great community hospitals

Becker's Hospital Review's list was based on nominations and several outside rankings and ratings organizations, including U.S. News & World Report, Healthgrades, CMS, The Leapfrog Group, the National Rural Health Association and The Chartis Center for Rural Health.

Wednesday, September 17, 2025

Coffee-time With EvergreenHealth Commissioner Robin Campbell

CANCELLED, 10/12

EvergreenHealth Commissioner Robin Campbell, PhD
Coffee with the commission reschedule to October 27
 

I spent ~ hour with EvergreenHealth Commissioner Campbell today at his coffee-time at Roasters in Redmond.  I told him my wife's United Healthcare HSA policy was cancelled at Overlake two days ago.  It's too bad medical care is at the mercy of the insurance business.  I recommended Pam go to my doctor at EvergreenHealth since it's close by and coverage is still available there.  My Evergreen internist doctor will refer her to the type of medical services she needs.  

It's good Commissioner Campbell is reaching out to the community with his "Meet the Commissioner" coffee-times.  I learned he is on the influential Levy Committee and has many endorsements. His next coffee at Victor's was rescheduled  to October 27.   


Victor's
7993 Gilman St. 
Monday, October 27th
1:30 - 3:00 PM

ENDORSEMENTS:  

Angela Birney
Mayor, Redmond
Kelli Curtis
Mayor, Kirkland
Davina Duerr
State Representative, LD 1
David Edwards
Coucilmember, City of Woodinville
Michelle Evans
Councilmember, City of Woodinville
Nigel Herbig
Mayor, Kenmore
Shelly Kloba
State Representative, LD 1
Mike Millman
Mayor, Woodinville
Amy Walen
State Representative, LD 48

Friday, September 12, 2025

Meet Commissioner Robin Campbell

 

Dr. Robin Campbell


Robin Campbell, PhD is running in the General election to retain his EvergreenHealth Commissioner seat.  He invites you to his "Meet The Commissioner" coffees:  

Roasters
8397 - 158th Ave. NE, Redmond 
Wednesday, September 17
2 - 3:30 PM

Victor's
7993 Gilman St. 
Monday, October 20th
1:00 - 2:30 PM


Saturday, September 6, 2025

EvergreenHealth Honors Redmond Resident with "2024 Community Service Award."

 

Bob Yoder (l)  Virgil Snyder (r) 
(click picture to enlarge)

"Since 1998, EvergreenHealth has recognized individuals who make a meaningful impact on community health through its Community Service Award. This year, Redmond resident Bob Yoder was honored for his outstanding leadership and advocacy in mental health care.💚


Through his thoughtful presentations and compassionate voice, Bob has helped deepen the Board of Commissioners’ understanding of mental health challenges and emphasized the importance of expanding behavioral health services. His work has shaped EvergreenHealth’s response to community needs and strengthened support for vulnerable populations.

We are grateful for Bob’s dedication and proud to recognize his contributions to advancing the health of our community."


-- Virgil Snyder, Chair, EvergreenHealth Board of Commissioners


Learn more here: http://bit.ly/4luYEKh

8/19/2025 

Thursday, September 4, 2025

Jessica Forshee-Setzer, LMHC, -- EvergreenHealth's "Living Our Values" Honoree

Jessica Forshee-Setzer, LMHC
 

Jessica was honored  with EvergreenHealth's "Living Our Values" award during a July 28 ceremony at Canyon Park Behavioral Health Clinic.   

Jessica's Nomination Story:

"I would like to highlight an inspiring story from our Canyon Park Behavioral Health Clinic — one that reflects the power of compassion, persistence and expert care. It centers on Jessica Forshee-Setzer, LMHC, whose dedication made a profound impact on a young patient’s life in just a few months.

"When this young patient first arrived at the clinic six months ago, his family was deeply concerned. He was experiencing frequent outbursts at school, difficulty communicating and severe challenges with focus. At his initial appointment, he wouldn’t make eye contact or speak, remaining glued to his video game and barely acknowledged those around him. 

"Jessica met him where he was — starting with simple, non-threatening games to build trust. Over time, her gentle persistence and thoughtful approach began to pay off. Session by session, she slowly introduced more engaging activities, and soon the patient began to open up, sharing bits about his school life and family. 

"Milestones followed. He began checking in at the front desk independently, helping himself to water, and even assisting other patients by pressing the automated door button. As more sessions passed, and Jessica was able to work with his school to learn background information and Improvement of Performance (IOP) treatment details, she was able to address his emotional and social needs, helping him to utilize opposite action and positive behaviors.

"Now, as he nears the end of his program, the transformation is nothing short of remarkable. He has developed strong communication skills, learned effective coping strategies, and gained a newfound confidence. He will even greet the psychiatric provider (Dr. Brian Wasicek) at the Behavioral Health clinic.  

"His bright “Hi, Dr. Wasicek!” in the hallway is a small but powerful symbol of how far he’s come. 

"Once a boy who hid his face behind his hands and wouldn’t speak a single word is now a cheerful, talkative adolescent. 

"Jessica’s commitment to this patient’s growth reflects the excellence we strive for every day. Her work reminds us of the incredible difference one person can make. 

"Thank you, Jessica, for the heart and skill you bring to every session. We are honored to have you as part of our team."

Wednesday, August 27, 2025

Evergreenhealth Commissioner Campbell Certified, Governance And Executive Education


Robin Campbell, PhD earned the prestigious Governance & Executive Education certificate by completing 12 intensive Washington State Hospital Association educational sessions. Dr. Campbell is running in the General Election to retain his EvergreenHealth commissioner Position #5 seat.  The term is 6-years.  

BACKGROUND:

    

Association of Washington Public Hospital Districts (AWPHD) in partnership with Washington State Hospital Association (WSHA) offers its members educational opportunities to increase their knowledge and understanding of hospital governance in Washington state. This education assists executive leadership and board members in assessing and enhancing hospital operations and board effectiveness.

For more information on Dr. Robin Campbell visit his website at:  https://www.robin4evergreenhealth.com/

-- Bob Yoder, 8/27/25

Friday, August 22, 2025

EvergreenHealth Honors Redmond Resident, "2024 Community Service Award"

 

(l-r) sister Joanne Dearth from No. Carolina, Bob Yoder, Pam Yoder

"Since 1998, EvergreenHealth has recognized individuals who make a meaningful impact on community health through its Community Service Award. This year, Bob Yoder was honored for his outstanding leadership and advocacy in mental health care.💚
Through his thoughtful presentations and compassionate voice, Bob has helped deepen the Board of Commissioners’ understanding of mental health challenges and emphasized the importance of expanding behavioral health services. His work has shaped EvergreenHealth’s response to community needs and strengthened support for vulnerable populations.
We are grateful for Bob’s dedication and proud to recognize his contributions to advancing the health of our community."
Learn more here: http://bit.ly/4luYEKh

-- Virgil Snyder, Chair
Board of Commissioners
EvergreenHealth

Thursday, August 21, 2025

EvergreenHealth Commissioner Robin Campbell Projected Winner

Robin Campbell, PhD

At-Large representative
Board member since 2024
Term ends Dec. 31, 2025

In 2023-24, Dr. Campbell served as an  EvergreenHealth Community Advisor and was
appointed EvergreenHealth Commissioner in 2024.  His term ends December 31, 2025
and he is on the ballot in November to retain his seat.  He has earned a Health Care
Governance Certification from the Washington State Hospital Association.

Robin Campbell is a retired executive and board director with over 35 years of
experience in management and executive roles in several life science companies such

From 2004 to 2008, he was President and CEO of  Naryx Pharma , a specialty pharmaceutical company. From 2011 to 2021, he was the Executive Chairman of Aptitude Medical Systems. He has served on the Board of Directors of several public healthcare companies and was also Chairman of the Board of the Cancer Support Community in Ventura County, California, a non-profit organization that provides free support and resources to people with family members fighting cancer.

From 2009 to 2018, Dr. Campbell held an appointment as a Lecturer in the Technology
on life science business, general business strategy and marketing.  

Currently, he volunteers with SCORE, offering free coaching to small business owners,
as well as serving as a Zoo Ambassador volunteer at Woodland Park Zoo.  Campbell
holds a BA in Zoology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a PhD
in Microbiology and Immunology from Wake Forest University School of Medicine.

Sunday, August 10, 2025

EvergreenHealth Quality of Care Top 10% of 4,500 Hospitals Nationwide

 

"Congratulations to the hardworking staff at EvergreenHealth for earning a 5-Star hospital designation from CMS again this year, our 10th consecutive! We are proud to be among just 291 hospitals nationwide to receive this recognition in 2025. Thank you to every member of the EvergreenHealth team for making quality and patient safety the foundation of everything we do."