News

Franklin Memorial Named Among the Nation’s Most Wired Hospitals, Again!

More than 1,700 hospitals considered for the award

Farmington ¾

 

Franklin Memorial Hospital has again been named as one of 289 of the nation’s most wired hospitals according to the results of the 2013 Most Wired Survey Benchmarking Study released today in the July issue of Hospitals & Health Networks, the journal of the American Hospital Association (AHA).

 

This year marks the 15^th anniversary of Health Care’s Most Wired Survey. In that time, hospitals and health care systems have made great strides in establishing the basic building blocks for creating robust clinical information systems aimed at improving patient care. This includes adopting technologies to improve patient documentation, advancing clinical decision support and evidence-based protocols, reducing the likelihood of medication errors, and rapidly restoring access to data in the case of a disaster or outage.

 

Health Care’s Most Wired Survey asked hospitals and health systems nationwide to answer questions regarding their IT initiatives. Respondents representing 1,713 hospitals were considered for the award.

 

Among some of the key findings this year: 

 

• Sixty-nine percent of Most Wired hospitals and 60 percent of all surveyed hospitals report that medication orders are entered electronically by physicians. This represents a significant increase from 2004 results when only 27 percent of Most Wired hospitals and 12 percent of all hospitals responded, “Yes.”
• Seventy-one percent of Most Wired hospitals have an electronic disease registry to identify and manage gaps in care across a population compared with 51 percent of total responders.
• Sixty-six percent of Most Wired hospitals share patient discharge data with affiliated hospitals, in comparison to 49 percent of the total responders. Thirty-seven percent of Most Wired hospitals do so with non-affiliated hospitals versus 24 percent of total responders.
• 41 percent of Most Wired hospitals provide a patient portal or Web-based solution for patient-generated data.

 

“As shown by these survey results, hospitals continue to demonstrate how IT not only can be used to improve patient care and safety, but also to improve efficiency,” said Rich Umbdenstock, AHA president and CEO. “This year’s Most Wired organizations exemplify progress through innovation.”

 

Franklin Memorial Hospital has made information technology a priority in recent years. For example, all Franklin Health medical practices and the hospital emergency department have converted from paper medical records to electronic medical records that provide instant and complete patient information to consulting health care providers in medical offices, emergency rooms, hospitals, and other health facilities to improve patient care. This year, access to a patient portal was given to all Franklin Health primary care patients with computer access. This patient portal is a secure Web site that gives patients convenient 24-hour access to personal health information from anywhere with an Internet connection. Using a secure user name and password, patients can view their test results, office visit summaries, medication list, and request prescription refills and appointments. Patient portals have been found to enhance patient-provider communication, empower patients, support care between visits and, most importantly, improve patient outcomes.

 

Rebecca Ryder, president of Franklin Community Health Network (FCHN) and Franklin Memorial Hospital , said being recognized for three consecutive years is another important milestone. “This is a very prestigious and much sought after award,” she said, adding that the achievement “is not just about the IT Department, but the entire staff who has embraced the new technologies.”

 

“Equipping caregivers with the information needed to drive quality, safety, and efficiency will continue to be an imperative as the challenges facing health systems grow increasingly complex,” said Ralph Johnson, FCHN chief information officer. “The effective use of health IT, including actionable analytics and connectivity, can be a strategic lever as hospitals and health systems work to drive better outcomes while managing capacity, reducing costs, and coordinating care across multiple settings and caregivers.”

 

Franklin Memorial Hospital , Maine Medical Center, Eastern Maine Medical Center , Blue Hill Memorial Hospital , and Sebasticook Valley Healthcare are the only hospitals in Maine to be recognized in the “Most Wired Overall” category this year.

 

Democrats Reject Military Recruiter Bill

Governor calls the block disgraceful to Maine’s long and proud history of service

AUGUSTA – Governor Paul R. LePage released the following statement after House Democrats voted to block a bill requiring school districts to adopt policies allowing uniformed military recruiters the same access and opportunity to meet with students enjoyed by other postsecondary and career recruiters:

“The American military uniform represents freedom, honor and integrity to millions around the world. I am not surprised, but appalled that some Democrats in the Maine Legislature are playing a political game with the men and women in uniform who defend our country.

It is a disgrace they have denied our American heroes in uniform the opportunity to speak with Maine students. Their claim in blocking my bill was that there was no proof of a problem, despite the Maine National Guard’s recruiters repeatedly saying there are issues.

For Democrats to call into question the word of our patriotic and principled service members is a slap in the face to Maine’s long and proud history of service to this country.”

Background: Twenty Democrats today flipped their votes on LD 1503, a bill that would have allowed military recruiters the same access to Maine public schools as civilian career recruiters and would have further allowed them to wear their uniforms while visiting schools. View the roll-call here.

 

AUGUSTA – A bill that strengthens Maine law pertaining to sex trafficking and other related crimes is now on the books. Governor Paul R. LePage today joined members of the Maine Coalition Against Sexual Assault, Office of the Attorney General and U.S. Department of Homeland Security to ceremonially sign LD 1159, "An Act To Address Human Trafficking, Sex Trafficking and Prostitution."

This bill adds sex trafficking as a crime under Maine law. This includes crimes where people are forced into prostitution against their will, whether through human smuggling or against individuals with mental illness.

“There were few bills I was as pleased to sign as this one. Issues that victims are facing had to be addressed and offenders needed a stronger message from Maine saying that this unthinkable criminal behavior will not be tolerated,” Governor LePage said. “I thank everyone who helped to ensure this legislation moved forward and is my hope that Maine will be a safer state for it.”

Destie Hohman Sprague, of the Maine Coalition Against Sexual Assault was actively involved in advocating for LD 1159 and joined the Governor as he signed the bill. "This reform is an important step toward shifting the cultural understanding of sex trafficking, and naming the crime for what it truly is. Along with the enhanced penalties for the offenders (pimps and johns) and increased access to resources for victims, this legislation is a powerful new tool for combatting this crime in Maine," Hohman Sprague said.

The bill becomes law Wednesday, October 9, 2013.

L to R in Photo: Elizabeth Ward-Saxl, Executive Director, Maine Coalition Against Sexual Assault; Jaime Ricker, Advocate, Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Services; Gary Cote, Agent in Charge for Maine-US Department of Homeland Security; Meg Elam, Deputy DA, Cumberland County (primary author and driver of the bill); Governor Paul R. LePage; Destie Hohman Sprague, Program Coordinator Maine Coalition Against Sexual Assault (front); Debi Lettri, Administrative Assistant, Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner Program (back); Arian Giantris, Program Coordinator; Catholic Charities Maine Refugee and Immigration Services (front);Polly Campbell, Program Director, Sexual Assault Forensic Examiner Program (back)

Governor Presents “Outstanding Veteran of the Year Awards” to WWII Veterans  

AUGUSTA – Governor Paul R. LePage attended the Commanders Call Thursday morning meeting with representatives from Maine veteran’s service organizations. The meeting is part of his ongoing effort to maintain an open channel of communication with veterans.

 

The representatives meet regularly to discuss and address current issues and the needs of the Maine veterans’ population.

The Governor said, “The feedback and guidance I get from this group is invaluable and I appreciate their open and honest dialogue. It is so critical that as Governor I know about the struggles facing Maine’s Veterans who have given so much.”

The Governor presented two WWII veterans, Arnold Leavitt of Augusta and Estol “Mac” McClintock of Wellington with the Outstanding Veteran of the Year Awards. These certificates are given in appreciation to the veteran who shows leadership and support and consistently goes above and beyond for fellow veterans.

“Mr. Leavitt and Mr. McClintock are part of Maine’s proud and long-standing tradition of service to our state and country. It is an honor to present the Outstanding Veteran of the Year award to both men,” said Governor LePage.

“We have the largest number of veterans per capita in the nation and we owe our heartfelt gratitude to our troops who defend our freedom and sacrifice time with their family, friends and communities to serve,” Governor LePage added.

In light of the recent focus and impassioned debate on LD 1503 "An Act To Ensure Student Access to Postsecondary Military Options", Governor LePage during the meeting expressed his disappointment of some Democrats who blocked the bill from moving forward. “As I prepare to go to Gettysburg, I am disgusted by some of the Democrats blatant rejection of this bill. It sends a message to all military service members – past and present – that they are not welcome in Maine’s public school system,” he said.

Twenty Democrats on Tuesday flipped their votes on LD 1503, a bill that would have allowed military recruiters the same access to Maine public schools as civilian career recruiters and would have further allowed them to wear their uniforms while visiting schools. View the roll-call here. 

“Military service is not for everyone and this bill did nothing to force students into serving. It simply forbade school administrators from refusing recruiters in uniform to visit with students interested in exploring life’s options,” Governor LePage added.

Maine Veterans Services hosts the Commanders Call meeting with the Governor quarterly.

The following is the weekly message from Governor Paul R. LePage. To listen to the audio visit the Governor's website.

Maine’s first 126^th Legislative session was plagued by misguided priorities and political games.

Democratic leadership chose their strategy, which was to attack and delay. 

Hello, this is Governor Paul LePage.

Playing politics is easy; governing effectively is hard. As Chief Executive, I take my responsibilities on behalf of the people of Maine seriously.

Our Administration has worked hard to change the attitude within government and has brought more transparency to government than any recent administration. We work with citizens and businesses to solve problems. We strive to be efficient and responsible with taxpayer dollars. And we only introduce public policy that benefits Mainers and our state.

There are nearly 500 new bills that will become law in October or earlier as a result of this session.

In one of the most appalling moves of the session, however, some Democrats took a stand against the Administration at the expense of our military men and women. A Governor’s bill was submitted supporting Maine’s uniformed military members having access to public schools.

Military recruiters told our Administration several schools in southern Maine only allow minimal access of recruiters. Those high schools brought to our attention were Oak Hill, Noble, Wells, York, Kennebunk, Gorham and Yarmouth.  We also were informed that two additional high schools, Portland and Yarmouth, refused uniformed recruiters from stepping on campus.

Democrats have claimed there is no problem, but in the same breath some Democrats have said uniformed military service members may intimidate high school students. So, the father or mother who arrives in uniform to pick up their child from school is threatening? The thought is preposterous.

One Democrat even said he’s “more inclined to believe our local superintendents than a military recruiter.” I’d bet my life on the word of a recruiter over a superintendent any day of the week and twice on Sunday.

As I prepare to go to Gettysburg, I am disgusted by these behaviors. The Democrats blatant rejection of this bill sends a message to all military service members – past and present – that they are not welcome in Maine’s public school system.  The disdain is evident and it is a sad day for Maine when we cannot come together in agreement to support our troops.

Maine has a proud and long-standing tradition of service to our state and country. We have the largest number of veterans per capita in the nation and we owe our heartfelt gratitude to our troops who defend our freedom and sacrifice time with their family, friends and communities to serve.

Military service is not for everyone and this bill did nothing to force students into serving. It simply forbade school administrators from refusing recruiters in uniform to visit with students interested in exploring life’s options.

I encourage Mainers to find out where politicians stand on this important common sense bill before they cast their next vote. I assure you that this will not be the last time this bill is introduced.

I do not form opinions about policy based on party lines. Our Administration identifies the problem, reviews the options, and develops a plan. I stand by my principles and I don’t know any other way than to fight for what I believe in.

Maine has challenging issues that must be addressed. While we have the lowest unemployment rate in years, we need to become more competitive.

Electricity prices must be lowered and government spending must be curbed. I want Maine businesses to have the opportunity to thrive and create new jobs, and I want you to keep your hard-earned money not give it to government.

Furthermore, the taxes the Legislature just raised on you were completely unnecessary.

I don’t know what Mainers will remember most about this first session. Perhaps it’s the recruiter bill or maybe that the hospital welfare debt was finally paid. Quite frankly, the tax increases disturb me the most.

And the way I look at it: the 126^th isn’t over yet. So, in January we will have a plan. A plan that repeals the tax increases and is designed to move Maine forward.

The question is will Democrats choose to fight against me again or work for the Maine people. 

Approval of Transportation Bond Critical to Maine Jobs, Governor Encourages Lawmakers to Act

$100 million bond hinges on legislative action

AUGUSTA – As legislators prepare to return this week to Augusta, Governor Paul R. LePage is encouraging them to back a proposal to advance $100 million for transportation projects that will promote economic development and create jobs in the State of Maine.

Governor LePage in March provided legislators LD 1095, An Act To Authorize a General Fund Bond Issue To Improve Highways, Bridges and Multimodal Facilities. The bill provides $100 million for reconstruction and rehabilitation of highways and bridges and for facilities or equipment related to ports, harbors, marine transportation, freight and passenger railroads, aviation and transit. The money would be matched by an estimated $154 million in federal and other funds.

Governor LePage has made it very clear that by paying our debt to Maine’s hospitals, the State will be in better financial standing than previous years. With Maine’s debt to hospitals now taken care of, the Governor is prompting the 126^th Legislature to pass the bond on Tuesday, July 9 when they return to the State House.

“This transportation bond proposal is a good one. If approved, the Department of Transportation will immediately begin to evaluate requests and fund projects based on economic and infrastructure priorities,” said Governor LePage. “Furthermore, contractors and construction workers will be assured with long-term job security and keep the paychecks flowing, which will continue to strengthen Maine’s economy.”

The main priority in passing the Governor’s transportation bond is to fund projects that will create jobs and make Maine more attractive to employers. Construction unemployment currently in Maine is at 26 percent. A $100 million bond would support an estimate 2,800 good paying jobs in construction and related industries. “This is not a bond to pay for railroads or walking paths to nowhere. It will fund port, rail or aviation projects that create jobs or bring employers to the state,” Department of Transportation Commissioner David Bernhardt said.

In addition to addressing areas that are most critical for economic opportunity, the bond ensures safe travel for residents and tourists alike. Investments include $46 million to construct, reconstruct or rehabilitate high-priority highways; $5 million for secondary roads; $30 million for bridge replacements and rehabilitation; and $19 million for ports, harbors, passenger railroad, freight, aviation and transit facilities. 

Important economy-building projects are at risk without funding, such as improvements to the International Marine Terminal in Portland needed to support the new transatlantic shipping line (Eimskip) recently established in Maine’s largest city. This international connection will likely benefit core Maine industries like fishing, agriculture, and forest products.

It is unclear if Democrats will support the Governor’s transportation bond upon their return Tuesday. Democrats have stated they plan to create a bond package this fall. Although, details have not been released regarding what that package may include.

 

Statement of Governor LePage on President Obama’s Decision to Delay Employer Mandate of ObamaCare  

AUGUSTA – Governor Paul R. Lepage released the following statement regarding President Obama’s decision to delay the employer mandate of ObamaCare:

"I have said all along that ObamaCare will drive up costs and bury both businesses and families in more government regulation. It is good to see Washington finally recognize more major problems with this law. It is time Congress and the President repeal ObamaCare and give each state the flexibility we need. It is the first step in saving our country."    

MSEA Concedes to Governor, Accepts Proposal for New Labor Contract

AUGUSTA – After more than two years of hard bargaining and defending himself against multiple lawsuits filed with the Maine Labor Relations Board (MLRB), Governor Paul R. LePage has reached agreement with the Maine State Employees Association (MSEA) on a tentative contract that is in the best interests of the State.

Throughout this two-year period, Governor LePage stood firm and did not waiver when it came to removing excessive and unnecessary costs supported by the previous union contract.

If members of MSEA ratify the agreement, the new contract will be effective through June 30, 2015. 

This is the fourth union contract Governor LePage has successfully negotiated for the next two-year period, following productive negotiations with the unions that represent the troopers, other law enforcement officers and institutional workers. “At times, negotiations were contentious, but we were finally able to convince MSEA that there were parts of the expired contract that had to go or be changed,” said the Governor.

For instance, the Governor’s negotiating team was able to eliminate unnecessary phone allowances and state-paid leave for union members to attend their own annual convention; reduce by half the interest rate on reclassifications and tighten up the reclassification procedures; eliminate excessive payments for call-out; provide an option for protecting employees’ social security numbers; and establish better job security for those who are opposed to paying service fees to the union.

In addition to improving the union contract by eliminating excessive provisions that cost Maine taxpayers, the Governor also recognized the commitment and dedication of executive branch employees by providing for wage and merit increases.

“I appreciate the hard work by all state employees serving the people of Maine,” Governor LePage said. "We have been successful in making state government more transparent, more efficient and more focused on customer service for both citizens and businesses."  

 

AUGUSTA –Governor Paul R. LePage today performed the swearing in of David J. Mitchell to serve as a District Court Judge and Judge John V. Romei to serve as an Active Retired District Court Judge. The judges are both from Washington County.

"I am pleased to swear in Judge Mitchell and Judge Romei, both of whom have distinguished records," said Governor Paul LePage. "In choosing judges, my focus is on the qualifications, demeanor, and integrity of the candidates, not politics. Judge Mitchell and Judge Romei reflect those priorities."

Governor McKernan nominated Judge Romei, a resident of Roque Bluffs, to the District Court in 1992. Before he became a judge, he established his own private practice in Machias. Prior to going into private practice, he was hired as a Trial Judge by the Passamaquoddy Nation, where he continues to serve on a part time basis. Early in his career, he worked as a District Attorney. He is a graduate of the University of Maine, School of Law.

David J. Mitchell, a resident of Calais, has practiced law in Washington County since graduating law school in 1997. He currently has his own firm consisting of criminal defense, divorces, child custody cases, protective custody matters, real estate, Probate, and civil litigation. Since 2004, Mitchell has also served as the Tribal Prosecutor in the Passamaquoddy Tribal Court in both Pleasant Point and Indian Township. He is a graduate of the University of Maine, School of Law.

Both judges were reviewed by the Joint Standing Committee on Judiciary and confirmed by the full Senate. 

 

Governor Celebrates America’s Independence, Reminds Mainers of American Dream

AUGUSTA – Governor Paul R. LePage will celebrate Independence Day in Maine’s Queen City participating in the Bangor-Brewer Fourth of July parade. The annual tradition is the largest parade in Maine with more than 1,000 participants and viewed by more than 30,000 people.

“We are all Americans first. This bond can never be broken, and is held through our love of country, and sense of duty for the United States. We feel proud every time we pledge allegiance to our flag, or sing the Star Spangled Banner,” stated Governor LePage.

The parade begins at 11 a.m., Thursday, at the Brewer Auditorium, crossing the Chamberlain Bridge into Bangor, and ending at the corner of Exchange and Harlow Streets in Bangor. The route from start to finish will take approximately two hours featuring marching bands, military and specialty units, veterans, floats, and much more.

Governor LePage reminds Mainers that Independence Day is a day to celebrate and also a day of reflection. “It is a time to reflect on what these freedoms mean to us, and how we are able to experience all that our nation has to offer,” he said.

“It is because of our troops that we are able to salute our flag. It is because of our troops that we are able to appreciate Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness. And it is because of our troops that we are able to experience and talk about the American Dream.”

WHEN: 11 a.m., Thursday, July 4

WHERE: Bangor-Brewer