Innovative use of EMR helps identify more Make-A-Wish kids

Make-A-Wish Arizona, the local chapter of the international wish-granting organization, and District Medical Group (DMG), a Phoenix-based non-profit medical group comprised of more than 650 providers across medical specialties, are piloting a unique referral process to increase life-changing wish opportunities for eligible children receiving care at DMG Children Rehabilitative Services (DMG CRS) in Phoenix.

The “Medical Champions” program was created by DMG using their electronic medical records (EMR) system to better identify and track children with critical illnesses who would qualify for a wish experience. Read more

Dr. Elizabeth Ferguson Named Designated Institutional Official of Creighton University

Creighton University-Arizona Health Education Alliance Is One of the Largest Graduate Medical Education Providers in Arizona

fergusonPHOENIX (July 9, 2018) —Elizabeth Ferguson, MD, a highly regarded surgeon and educator at Maricopa Integrated Health System, has been named Designated Institutional Official (DIO) of the Creighton University–Arizona Health Education Alliance.

In her new position, Dr. Ferguson will supervise all Graduate Medical Education programs under the Alliance, a collaboration of MIHS, Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, District Medical Group, Inc., and Creighton University School of Medicine. Read more

Ask a Doc: Do your kids need sunscreen if they’re in the shade?

You should put sunscreen on your kids even if they’re playing outside in the shade. – Paul Bradbury, Getty Images


Mansi Sarihan, MD  |  Contributor
As originally published USAToday.com 9:20 p.m. June 18, 2018


Question: Do you need to wear sunscreen if you’re outside in the shade?

Answer: I receive this question often and every time I answer:

Definitely yes!

You may think you’ve got it made in the shade, but you can still be hit by harmful UV rays that bounce off the sand, sidewalk, pool or ocean. They can even bounce off grass!

Even under an umbrella or a shade structure, UV rays can slink through the fabric and cause skin damage.

Yes, shade is a blessing. But if you’re relying on it to protect your skin from sunburn, you may be very disappointed. That’s why you’ll want to apply sunscreen before you step outside, even if you’ll stay in the shade.

Here’s the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from direct and indirect UV rays:

  1. Use sunscreen of at least SPF 50 or higher, with full UV spectrum. Find a brand that you like – you’ll be more likely to use it. Reapply sunscreen every two hours you’re outside.
  2. Wear wide-brimmed hats (at least 3 inches of brim all around the head) and UV protective clothing.
  3. Avoiding the sun during peak hours is essential. From around 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., try not to go outside. Or, stick to shaded areas such as swimming at times when the pool is out of the direct sun.
  4. Get in the habit of applying sunscreen. Daily application of sunscreen in the morning, regardless of your activities during the day (even just driving in the car), can yield healthier and happier skin.

Follow these rules and your skin will thank you.

Mansi Sarihan, MD, is chief of dermatology at Maricopa Integrated Health System and Clinical Assistant Professor, University of Arizona, College of Medicine-Phoenix.

As originally published USAToday.com 9:20 p.m. June 18, 2018