NorthShore University HealthSystem Addresses Area Health Needs, Brings Unprecedented Care to Region’s Most Vulnerable Residents

NorthShore Skokie Hospital is partnering with the community to identify and meet the area’s greatest needs, with a special focus on mental health services and science education programs. Last year, NorthShore provided $268 million in community benefits, according to its FY2012 Community Benefits Report. For local residents, that translates into more accessible healthcare services in less intimidating settings.

“NorthShore works hand-in-hand with us at The Living Room to provide critical emotional support for patients experiencing intense periods of stress,” said Ann Fisher Raney, Chief Executive Officer of Turning Point Behavioral Health Center. “With NorthShore’s partnership, we are able to assist hundreds of people in an unintimidating environment. Together, we have helped save the lives of those who wouldn’t feel comfortable turning to a clinical psychiatric setting.”

The Living Room Project is the first of its kind in the area, offering psychiatric care in a home-like environment. The center has seen more than 300 visits since it opened in September 2011. NorthShore works alongside Turning Point Behavioral Center in Skokie and The Josselyn Center in Northfield on this alternative to emergency room visits. Psychiatric experts serve as peer counselors, helping to guide patients through long-term care plans. NorthShore support also led to the construction of a handicap-accessible entrance ramp and an effort to provide healthy snacks for those receiving treatment.

“Providing health care services in our hospitals isn’t enough. That’s why we look to partner with high-quality, innovative community organizations,” said Kristen Murtos, President of NorthShore Skokie Hospital. “This way, we can provide care in a way that encourages community members to seek the services they need -- and in environments where they feel comfortable.”

As part of that effort, Skokie Hospital helped to open the Erie Evanston/Skokie Health Center this year, a closer alternative for north suburban residents who were receiving treatment at the Erie Family Health Center in Chicago.

NorthShore also identified a need for science enrichment programs and supports the Sizzling Summer Science Camp. In partnership with Niles Township District 219 and the Skokie and Lincolnwood Park Districts, students tour Skokie Hospital’s clinical departments while learning about medical technology from hospital staff. This experience allows students to understand what goes on behind the scenes at a hospital, while encouraging math and science education outside of traditional school hours.

NorthShore also supports local fitness programs, such as Skokie Park District’s FUNdamentals of FITness and NorthShore Senior Center’s MemberFit Program.

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.