CHI Franciscan Health focuses on education and recognition at Donation Summit

Last fall, staff from across the CHI Franciscan Health system gathered at St. Joseph Medical Center in Tacoma for the 2nd annual Donation Summit. The day was designed to educate, celebrate, and recognize the good work done by leadership and nurses regarding the lifesaving and healing process of organ, eye, and tissue donation.  The event was well attended as participants learned about their role in the donation process, how collaboration can improve outcomes, and listen to first-hand accounts of the impact donation has on donor and recipient families.

Donor mom Marta Baldwin of Bothell, WA shared the story of her son Cole, who saved five lives when he became an organ donor at Harborview Medical Center in 2007, and how meeting one his recipients has helped them heal and find solace. Cindie Hollis, whose son Kaden received a liver transplant at Seattle Children’s Hospital when he was just 21 months old, also spoke about the second chance at life donation provided for Kaden and how it inspired her to become a living kidney donor. Today, thanks to his life-saving transplant, Kaden is a healthy, energetic 10-year old.

Staff who attended walked away with a greater understanding of their part in the organ and tissue donation process at their hospital, and saw a glimpse of how each successful donation touches the lives of those involved-on both the donor family, and the recipient side. At the end of the day, facilities within the Franciscan system were presented awards based on their efforts in 2015. 

• Most improved compliant referral rate (contacting LCNW in a timely manner when a patient meets clinical triggers for donation)

• Highest percentage of referrals for potential organ donors from the ER

• Highest average number of organs transplanted per donor in the last 12 months

• Highest average number of organs transplanted per donor in the last 12 months

• Highest tissue conversion rate-how many potential tissue donors were able to donate

• Demonstrated a commitment to improving donation outcomes by providing time, energy, and expertise to ensure the best possible donation program at their hospital

CHI Franciscan staff accept their achievement awards at the 2015 Donation Summit