-So, why aren’t more parents asking it?
BACKGROUND: National ASK (Asking Saves Kids) Day is Saturday, June 21. "One
Simple Question, Thousands of Reasons to ASK" is a reference to the single question that could
save thousands of children from serious injury or death. That question is: “Is there a gun in your
home?” And it’s a question every parent should be asking the parents of their children’s friends,
but less than half have ever done so.
More...
Social workers at University Hospital trying to locate
family of seriously injured patient
(SAN ANTONIO, TX. May 8, 2009) University Hospital
social workers are asking for the public’s assistance in
finding friends or family of a patient who was transported
to the hospital by San Antonio EMS last week. The man,
believed to be in his mid 50s, was found down by police
May 1, on Cherry Street, located on the Eastside of San
Antonio. More...
Local students “draw” attention to safety
-Children honored for their “How I Stay Safe” calendar contest drawings-
About a dozen children from across Bexar County will be recognized for their unique drawings and powerful messages on safety. Students, ages 4-11, were invited to participate in the 2009 citywide "How I Stay Safe" calendar contest, sponsored by University Health System.
More...
Trading in brass badges for blue scrubs
-SAPD & SAFD Chiefs step into the shoes of a nurse-
BACKGROUND: San Antonio Police Chief William McManus and San
Antonio Fire Chief Charles Hood can definitely relate to University
Hospital’s lifesaving mission, but can they “cut it” as nurses? On
Wednesday, May 6, Chief McManus and Chief Hood will trade in their
badges and uniforms for a pair of scrubs and crocs, and join a group of
hospital administrators who will be literally “stepping into the shoes” of a nurse for a few hours. As
part of University Health System’s Nurses’ Week celebration, each person will experience firsthand
what it means to be a nurse in a busy academic medical center. Chief McManus will be
assigned to the Cardiac Cath Lab and Chief Hood will be headed to the busy ER. More...
San Antonio Families and Physicians Team up to Save Children’s Lives
(SAN ANTONIO – April 30, 2009) Motor vehicle crashes continue to be the leading cause of death among children in the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), child safety seats reduce fatal injury by 71 percent for infants and 54 percent for toddlers. See Me Safe, a Child Passenger Safety (CPS) program, held an event today at University Hospital to address this critical issue by providing families essential training and information on how to keep their children safe while in their vehicles. More...
University Hospital searching for family of homeless male patient
(SAN ANTONIO –April 15, 2009) University Hospital is looking for the public’s help in finding friends or family of a patient who came to the hospital last week after being hit by a car. 70-year-old Santiago “Simon” Molina is not able to communicate well, so social workers at the hospital are not able to determine where he lives or who has been caring for him. He is ready to be discharged, but unless someone comes forward, there is no place for him to go. More...
Teens "Talk it Up" to help others
-Harlandale H.S. students graduate from teen depression education program-
BACKGROUND: Depressed teens often look for support and advice from other teens. That’s why 30 students from Harlandale High School have made it their mission to reach out to their friends and classmates. These compassionate young people will graduate from Talk it Up, Texas, a school-based teen depression awareness program of University Health System. The “Talk It Uppers” will serve as student facilitators - providing support to their peers at school.
More...
2009 National RV tour stops in San Antonio to help prevent blood clots
- Participants receive FREE Deep-Vein Thrombosis (DVT) risk assessment -
(March 30, 2009 - SAN ANTONIO) The Coalition to Prevent DVT’s first-ever nationwide RV tour, Driving to Reduce the Risks of DVT, made stops at University Hospital and the Texas Diabetes Institute today to provide free risk assessments and education on the deadly problem of blood clots.
More...
Some pictures make you smile. Others can make you cry.
These will give you hope!
- Local artist creates and unveils paintings of pediatric patients at University Hospital -
(San Antonio, TX) Drunk drivers, drive-by shooters. Trauma can happen any time, any place - to people just like you and me. “It” happened to 18-year-old Sergio Gutierrez and 6-year-old Nicholas Velasquez - two of the hundreds of seriously injured children who find healing on the Janey Briscoe Children’s Center at University Hospital each year. University Hospital is the only hospital in South Texas equipped to care for critically injured and burned children, and local artist Francisco Segura generously donated his services to bring hope to their families. More...
Follow the red carpet to health & safety
(San Antonio, TX) For the past 20 years, University Health System, in partnership
with other organizations and volunteers, has been working hard to reduce injury and
improve overall health through it’s “A Su Salud” program. And, on Wednesday, March
4, those who have been “super stars” in this effort to make a positive difference through
education, research, intervention and public policy modification will be honored
“Hollywood” style with a red carpet celebration. More...
University Health System nurse earns first DAISY Award
BACKGOUND: Nurses are responsible for the treatment, safety and recovery of their
patients. In fact, it would be impossible for University Health System – or any hospital - to carry
out its mission without highly skilled and dedicated nurses. That’s why the DAISY Foundation
was formed in 2000 by the family of a man who died after a battle with cancer and rare bleeding
disorder. “As we brainstormed what to do in his memory, the one really positive thing we could
hold onto from the experience was the skillful and amazingly compassionate care he received
from his nurses - even when he was totally sedated. So we created The DAISY Award for
Extraordinary Nurses to recognize the super-human work nurses do every day all over the
country,” the family explains on their Web site. Each year, this award is presented to an
outstanding nurse in more than 175 healthcare organizations across the United States. About
3,000 nurses have received the award. More...
Diabetes resources you can use
BACKGOUND: You’ve just been diagnosed with diabetes and you’re asking yourself: What next? If you’ve had this question and others, you’re not alone. Coping with this deadly and debilitating disease can be overwhelming for diabetics. That’s why University Health System’s Texas Diabetes Institute and the National League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) have joined forces to offer the First Annual Educational Forum on Diabetes: A Latinos in Action Initiative. The community is invited to take part in this forum, where they will learn about the many diabetes resources available to them at no cost. More...
University Hospital Emergency Center Medical Director Dies
(January 12, 2009 – SAN ANTONIO, TX) University Hospital Emergency Center Medical Director Michael J. Sanchez, MD was pronounced dead at University Hospital Sunday afternoon after being struck by a motor vehicle while jogging near the intersection of Bandera Road and Loop 1604.
Dr. Sanchez was named Medical Director of the Emergency Center (EC) in August of last year. He has been on the medical staff at University Hospital since 2006. “This is a shocking loss and a very sad time for all of us who knew him,” said University Health System President/CEO George B. Hernández, Jr. “In his short time in this leadership role, he made significant improvements in wait times, efficiency and overall customer service. He was a committed member of the master facility planning team and an advocate for improving the EC environment for staff and patients alike. His leadership, clinical skills and commitment to our mission earned him the respect of his colleagues at the UT Health Science Center and here at University Health System.”
More...
Santa to land sleigh at University Hospital
(San Antonio, TX) Santa and some of his workshop elves are expected to be in town to deliver toys galore to every hospitalized boy and girl spending Christmas at University Hospital. While most children in San Antonio are eagerly waiting for Santa to drop off gifts under their trees at home, several seriously ill and injured children will receive their gifts from Santa in person a few days early. University Hospital patient and trauma survivor Julie Mogenis will also help Santa distribute toys to “Pedi” patients. Judge Mogenis, who was involved in a serious hunting accident in 2004, is “sponsoring” Santa’s visit to University Hospital to provide comfort and hope to other patients.
More...
What? Count My Tortillas!
BACKGROUND: If you live in San Antonio, you know that tortillas are a popular food. Unfortunately for diabetics, tortillas like other foods high in carbohydrates must be eaten in moderation. Currently, an estimated 240,000 people in Bexar County are living with diabetes. Sadly, another 68 thousand adults and children have the disease but don’t know it. So, what better way to educate and raise awareness than with a play about the disease? This Monday, the community is invited to see two light-hearted, fun and educational theatre acts entitled, “What? Count My Tortillas” and “Controlling Diabetes: A Family Effort.” Various local organizations, including University Health System, Mujeres Unidas Contra el SIDA, National Latina Health Network, and Hoy y Adelante Mujeres Campaign, have teamed up to “act” out for diabetes awareness, in hopes of educating our community about a disease attacking thousands each year. This event is FREE and open to the public. More...
If you learn a new culture, you gain a new world
BACKGROUND: If you look around, you will notice that our society is VERY diverse. While cultural diversity enriches our lives, it can also be challenging. Learning to recognize the similarities and appreciate the differences of others is critical to the success of any organization. That’s why University Health System is calling attention to its diverse staff with a special “celebration of multicultural diversity,” during National Employee Learning Week (December 8-12). Some University Health System staff members whose cultural roots come from as faraway as Sudan, Malaysia, Bosnia, Nicaragua, China, Spain, Pakistan, Sulawesi and many others, will dress in their ethnic attire to showcase their foods, fashion, music and languages. More...
Well Child Clinic’s focus, flexibility improves children’s care
SAN ANTONIO (Dec. 3, 2008) — A 10-year-old boy is diagnosed with an undescended testicle, a condition usually corrected by age 1 because of its association with testicular cancer. A 7-year-old girl is diagnosed with scoliosis, a spinal curvature that ordinarily is not apparent until puberty. Other children undergoing routine height and weight measurements are found to have uncontrolled type 2 diabetes.
More...
San Antonio AirLIFE honored as top EMS air medical program in Texas
(SAN ANTONIO – December 2, 2008) San Antonio AirLIFE was named 2008 Texas’ EMS
Air Medical Service of the year at the 23rd Annual Texas EMS Conference in Ft. Worth on November 24. The award, presented by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) EMS division, honors the EMS air medical service that demonstrates the highest standards in providing patient care to the citizens of Texas.
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UPDATED! University Hospital searching for family of homeless patient
(SAN ANTONIO – November 20, 2008) Social workers at University
Hospital need your help in finding friends and family of 55-year-old
Anton Karunaratne. Social workers are hoping someone will come
forward to help him return home.
More...
Local women’s club named to Wall of Honor
(SAN ANTONIO – November 11, 2008) Lo Bello de San Antonio Women’s Club was inducted to the Texas Diabetes Institute Wall of Honor, Thursday, November 13, for its commitment and support of research to improve the lives of patients with diabetes and in search of a cure for this deadly disease.
More...
The Alamo to turn blue in support of ending diabetes
Diabetes is major concern in Bexar County. According to local statistics, diabetes in Bexar County is twice the national average. An estimated 240,000 individuals, 14 percent of the 1.4 million population of San Antonio, live with diabetes. It is estimated than an additional 68,000 people have undiagnosed diabetes. In addition, the number of Hispanics with diabetes is 82,518 and the number of African Americans with diabetes is 28,170. More than 1 million Texans are living with diabetes and an additional 440,000 have not been diagnosed, it is estimated. More...
Pediatric patients get ready for SPOOKTACULAR time
Annual Halloween parade to kick-off with plenty of “trick-or-treating”
BACKGROUND: Just because children are in the hospital doesn’t mean they can’t go trick-or- treating. Pediatric patients from the Janey Briscoe Children’s Center at University Hospital will be parading through administrative offices with their Halloween bags ready to be filled with goodies tomorrow afternoon. More...
University Hospital to receive Organ Donation Medal of Honor
University Transplant Center to pick up two National Awards
(San Antonio, TX – October 20, 2008) Members of the
University Hospital critical care and organ transplantation teams are
headed to Nashville this week to collect three significant national
awards, including the 2008 Organ Donation Medal of Honor, from
the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). HHS will
also honor the University Transplant Center for speeding up the
process of listing persons in need of transplantation on the National Donor Registry, and for
increasing the number of patients receiving lung transplants at University Hospital. More...
Families to Gain Access to Resources for Healthier Lifestyles and
Improved Nutrition at the Good Living Health & Wellness Family Expo
(SAN ANTONIO) — With diabetes, childhood obesity and heart disease among the
many health concerns challenging San Antonio families today, H-E-B has partnered with the
University Health System, the American Heart Association and the San Antonio Spurs to present
the Good Living Health & Wellness Family Expo on October 11, 2008. More...
Instead of: “Scalpel please”… it will be: “Can you hand me that wrench?”
-University Health System managers put their team-building training to the test-
About a dozen University Health System (UHS) managers will be trading in their sterile gloves for work ones, as they set out on an entirely new mission to build bicycles for needy children. The exercise is part of a specialized team-building training program to teach managers how to solve specific challenges and work as a team. More...
Celebrating life & opportunity - through the Eyes of a unique group of patients
BACKGROUND: The Somali Bantu people have endured discrimination and subjugation for 200 years. During the recent war in Somalia, the Bantu were again the victims of violence. In 1999, the U.S. Government offered 12,000 Somali Bantu refugees in Kenya the protection they had been seeking for over 10 years. The refugees settled in over 50 cities in 38 states, including San Antonio. The Bantu people are a welcoming group in spite of all the hardships and obstacles they have overcome. University Health System has been providing primary and prenatal care, as well as child safety classes, to these refugees through its network of community clinics. More...
University Health System recognized for leading & changing with new technology
(SAN ANTONIO – September 29, 2008) University Health System’s success in going “digital” with the roll-out and integration of key technologies, like an electronic medical record, computerized physician orders and results, as well as a Picture Archiving & Communication digital imaging system, will result in Bexar County’s public hospital district being recognized next month as this year’s recipient of the College of Healthcare Information Management Executives’ (CHIME) and the American Hospital Association’s (AHA) annual Transformational Leadership Award.
More...
Boxer Oscar Diaz successfully fighting
-Mr. Diaz opens his eyes, shows improvement-
BACKGROUND: The family of injured boxer, Oscar Diaz, remains hopeful for his recovery.
From critical to stable condition, Mr. Diaz has been showing improvement every day at University
Hospital. The 25-year-old boxer is awake and off the ventilator. This is very encouraging for his
family and friends who have been praying for his recovery since his boxing accident in July. Oscar
Diaz’s mom, Theresa Diaz, says, "It’s very exciting to see Oscar open his eyes. He’s a fighter and I
believe he will get better." More...
University Hospital caring for some of the tiniest hurricane evacuees
(SAN ANTONIO – September 12, 2008) The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at University Hospital is
now the temporary home of nine premature babies evacuated last night from University of Texas Medical
Branch (UTMB) in Galveston. The tiny babies, all weighing between just two and three pounds, were flown
to University in groups of three beginning at about 5 o’clock Thursday evening. More...
University Health System Named “Most Wired” Hospital
AND among top 12 hospitals in U.S. for using electronic medical records
(SAN ANTONIO – August 4, 2008) High-tech hospitals deliver better outcomes for patients according to the findings of the 2008 Most Wired Survey and Benchmarking Study. And, for the first time in the study’s ten-year history, a San Antonio hospital - University Health System - has been recognized as one of the 100 Most Wired Hospitals and Health Systems in the nation. More...
Blood Donation for Oscar Diaz
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25-year-old boxer, Oscar Diaz, is in critical condition at University Hospital
25-year-old boxer, Oscar Diaz, is in critical condition at University Hospital.
Mr. Diaz’s family is overwhelmed by the outpouring of support and appreciates all who continue to offer prayers for Oscar and their family. At this point they are not granting requests for interviews; they absolutely want to focus 100% of their time and attention on his care. No visitors, other than immediate family, are permitted to visit Mr. Diaz. More...
Give kids the BEST shot at staying well
- Parents reminded to get their children immunized before school starts-
(San Antonio, TX) Making good grades and keeping up with homework is important to parents of children starting school. But performing well in school starts with good health. That’s why University Health System is offering back-to-school immunizations over the coming weeks. More...
Metro Health and University Health System to be recognized for preventive health services integration
The San Antonio Metropolitan Health District and Bexar County’s University Health System are being honored by the Texas Municipal League (TML) and Texas Association of Counties with the City-County Cooperation Award. The award commends the two public health entities for a City-County integration effort aimed at creating a highperforming public health care system for the community.
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University Health System Case Manager Receives National Award
(SAN ANTONIO – June 27, 2008) Elaine Miller, MSN, RN, BC, nurse case manager for cardiology/pulmonary critical care services at University Hospital, received a distinguished national case management award at the Case Management Society of America’s (CMSA's) 18th Annual Conference held in Orlando, Florida earlier this month.
More...
Breathe in. Breathe out.
300th lung transplant “twins” will never take breathing for granted again
BACKGROUND: We all do it about 15 times a minute or 22,000 times a day. But most of us
never give it a thought. Breathing. It’s just something we do. That was not the case for Kevin King
and Kenny Deison. Before receiving a new lung, they each thought about breathing nearly every
waking hour. At his lowest point, King, 53, who suffered from pulmonary fibrosis, remembers asking
his wife to buy him an electric toothbrush because the exertion of brushing his teeth was just too much.
Deison, 59, a rancher, who made his living playing the guitar, was forced to have portions of both
lungs removed in 2005 due to emphysema. In the fall of last year, doctors told him he might not make
it through the winter. More...
Caring for chronically ill patients during a disaster
- Emergency planning experts from across South Texas to address response plan -
BACKGROUND: Various organizations from across South Texas will join forces tomorrow to discuss ways of providing adequate healthcare to chronically ill patients during a disaster.
The Alamo Association of Diabetes Educators, in partnership with University Health System’s Texas Diabetes Institute, will host The Second Annual Diabetes Management During a Disaster Seminar: Developing a Coordinated Response When Working with Chronically Ill Patients.
More...
Offering help and hope to severely burned children
- First annual event will support Burned Children’s Program at University Hospital -
BACKGROUND: A pot of boiling water slips off the
stove. A toddler loses balance and tumbles into a blazing
camp fire. A family wakens to the sounds of smoke detectors.
Nearly every day, at least one South Texas child is seriously
burned and requires specialized care found only at University
Hospital. Now, thanks to the generosity of Kiolbassa
Sausage, Mission tortillas and Augie’s Barbed Wire Smoke House, families coping with devastating
burn injuries will have more support as they help their children deal with the painful healing
process, as well as the physical and emotional scars left behind.
More...
Walk in My Shoes!
- University Hospital administrators step into the shoes of nurses -
While nurses are on the “front lines” saving lives and caring for patients at
University Hospital - the lead level I trauma center for Bexar Country, as well as all of South Texas
– hospital administrators are more “behind the scenes” often focused on budgets, planning and
other management functions.
More...
A picture worth a thousand words - in just 10 seconds
- World's most advanced diagnostic imaging equipment now available locally -
(SAN ANTONIO – April 10, 2008) Sharper, more accurate images, means faster, more accurate diagnosis. Better diagnosis, can lead to better outcomes for patients. That’s why University Health System has invested in the very latest computed tomography (CT or Cat scan) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems at its new Downtown Imaging Center, which officially opened today.
More...
What has big ears, a long neck and a couple of brass badges?
BACKGROUND:
No, it's not a mutant rabbit - but the Easter Bunny, and his VIP security detail, heading to University Hospital to visit pediatric patients.
San Antonio Police Chief William McManus and San Antonio Fire Chief Charles Hood, with special assistance from Toys R' Us' Geoffrey the Giraffe, will be escorting the Easter Bunny as he visits kids who won't be able to hunt for Easter Eggs - or even wake up in their own beds - Easter morning.
More...
New blood center opens just in time for Spring Break
- Newly renovated Blood Donor Room at University Hospital is ready to help save lives! -
BACKGROUND:
Every day, about a dozen seriously injured people from San Antonio and all over South Texas are rushed to University Hospital following car crashes, falls or other traumatic incidents. And, the Level I Trauma Center at University Hospital generally sees an increase over Spring Break, as more people head out on the highways, and too many kids make bad decisions to drink and drive.
More...
San Antonio Police Officer fights more than crime
A sore throat led to the fight of his life. Now he's warning others.
(SAN ANTONIO, TX - March 19, 2008) Everyone gets a sore throat, right? That's what San Antonio Police Officer Larry Price first thought when his throat started hurting in the summer of 2006. But, when the pain persisted and it became difficult to swallow he made an appointment with a doctor. He'd always had a problem with acid reflux, and has a family history of cancer, so he knew the news might not be good. More...
Survivors dress smart for healthy heart at upcoming fashion show
"Dress Smart for a Healthy Heart," a fashion show that features women treated for various forms of heart disease. These courageous survivors seek to teach other women, and the men in their lives, the importance of treating symptoms early and the hope provided by today's treatments.
More...
Metro Health clinical services transitioning to University Health System
Move aims to improve care, increase prevention services and save money
In an effort to move closer to creating a high-performing
public health care system for San Antonio and Bexar County, today the staff and clinical
preventive services from ten Metropolitan Health District clinic locations were officially
integrated into University Health System. The move is designed to reduce duplication of
services, enhance coordination of care, and increase our community's focus on prevention. More...
Christmas comes about a month late for one S.A. Baby
"Children are the hope of the world." - José Marti
He or she isn't even born yet, but January 28 will be an exciting "birth" day for one lucky San Antonio baby. As they do every year, members of the Cultural Center will come to University Hospital to honor a baby born on the birth date of Cuban leader José Marti. This event is part of a program called, "Hope for the World."
More...
U.S. Rep. Rodriguez secures funding to improve access to dialysis
-Southside residents to benefit from federal appropriation-
University Health System is planning to place 50
dialysis stations in South Bexar County, where the need is the greatest, and a Federal
appropriation of $167,000, secured by U.S. Congressman Ciro D. Rodriguez, will help purchase
dialysis equipment for this new center. End-stage kidney disease is one of the most serious
complications of diabetes, and ensuring adequate resources for patients suffering from kidney
failure is critically important for the thousands of people in Bexar County whose lives depend on
renal dialysis. Currently, University Health System operates three renal dialysis units. However,
the growing number of patients in need of these services is surpassing current dialysis capacity.
While 100 new dialysis patients are identified each year, only about half of them can be
accommodated within one of our facilities. More...
Dreams really do come true!
-Celebrating the power of learning: National Employee Learning Week Dec. 3-7-
When Drajica Tomovic moved from Bosnia to the United States 2002, she came with a big dream - to become a U.S. citizen. She knew her dream would take lots of hard work and dedication, so she applied herself and today she's reaping the benefits. More...
South Texas region named best trauma system in Texas
-Trauma care providers in Bexar & surrounding counties honored for saving lives, together-
The Southwest Texas Regional Advisory Council for trauma (STRAC) - which includes the
trauma hospitals, as well as, the EMS agencies in Bexar and 21 other South Texas counties -
was recognized as the 2007 Outstanding RAC by the Texas Department of State Health
Services (TDSHS). The award was presented during the 2007 Texas Emergency Medical
Services Conference held Nov.16-21 in Houston. More...
University Health System evaluating plans to address emergency & crisis care
-Top priority is assuring immediate life-saving care for critically injured patients-
When it comes to caring for people critically injured
in automobile crashes and other traumatic incidents, it's not just about getting the injured to any
hospital. Complex injuries require the type of specialized care available only at Level I trauma
centers. There are just 13 Level I trauma centers in all of Texas, and the Level I Trauma Center
at San Antonio's University Hospital - last expanded about 25 years ago - is too small to keep
up with today's demand for service. It's also not at all prepared to handle the future needs of
South Texas' growing population, or a large-scale disaster. More...
S.A. trauma centers release blood substitute study results
-Researchers find comparable survivability in both PolyHeme and Control groups-
Every second counts for severely injured and bleeding
patients, so finding the safest and quickest way to stabilize those suffering from massive blood
loss is a top priority for emergency responders and trauma surgeons. For this reason, University
Hospital and Brooke Army Medical Center (BAMC) were two of 32 Level I trauma Centers
across the United States taking part in a study involving the use of PolyHeme®, an
investigational blood substitute, in trauma patients suffering shock due to massive blood loss. More...
Pediatric patients ready for Halloween parade
-Annual tradition is all about creating good hospital memories-
It's never a "Treat" to be in the hospital, especially for kids during fun
holidays like Halloween. That's why the ChildLife department at University Hospital is making
sure to put some fun into Halloween. More...
Ten Candles to Blow Out
-Celebrating Ten Years of Community Health Services-
University Family Health Center-Southeast (UFHC-SE), one of six University Health System community clinics, celebrates ten years of service to East Side residents on Saturday, October 27 with a wide range of free health activities and screenings for the entire family. The clinic opened its doors in 1997 and has grown to provide about 54 thousand patient visits per year. More...
Number of Texans with diabetes is frightening
-A growing epidemic: How can we prevent it?
Physicians, researchers and other healthcare professionals from across the nation are headed to Harlingen – the front lines in the diabetes epidemic – to hear from the experts how best to treat and prevent this deadly and debilitating disease. Researchers and physicians from the world-renowned Texas Diabetes Institute in San Antonio are hosting a half day regional training conference, in an effort to help their counterparts from other parts of the country cope with the growing number of diabetes patients they are seeing in their communities. More...
University Hospital receives additional $1 million from unsafe driver fines
-States ranked by children's accidental injury deaths during summer, a deadly time for kids -
(SAN ANTONIO, TX - September 20, 2007) Bad drivers are responsible for causing many of the
critical injuries treated at the Level I Trauma Center at University Hospital. Those caught driving
while intoxicated, recklessly or without liability insurance are also responsible for the $1 million
check recently sent to the hospital to help cover the costs of providing around-the-clock care for the
seriously injured. More...
The countdown is on - at risk is our kids
Ninety-eight thousand kids in Bexar County have no idea how a decision to be made in the next 10 days in Washington D.C. could dramatically impact their health - and their lives. That's why a local coalition - Voices for Children - is speaking up on their behalf. More...
S.A. conference focuses on saving soldiers and civilians
(SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS August 20. 2007) Some 1,000 military and civilian trauma surgeons, nurses and paramedics are gathering in San Antonio this week to learn how to better care for the critically injured – whether that person is injured in a car crash on I-35 or by a roadside bomb in northern Iraq. More...
Baby girl is fine after spending more than 5 minutes under water
-How many people does it take to save a life? More than you might think -
BACKGROUND: On March 16, 2007 14-month-old Mia Deuter was found at the bottom of her family's swimming pool in the Spring Branch area. She had been submerged for what could be called an eternity in these types of situations - five or six minutes. It's every parent's nightmare that happens all too frequently, especially during the summer months. These stories often have very tragic endings. Fortunately, Mia survived with no ongoing problems thanks to all of the people who knew exactly what they needed to know, and who were exactly where they needed to be, standing by and ready to respond. These people - including Mia's father - were all life-saving "links" in our region's "chain of survival." More...
First - Ever Childhood Summer Safety Report Shows Huge Differences Across Nation
-States ranked by children's accidental injury deaths during summer, a deadly time for kids -
(San Antonio, TX - April 26, 2007) The first ever U.S. study ranking each state according to its summer death rate from accidental child injury will be released showing Texas and its ranking on May 4th at 10:00am.
The release of this study coincides with the kick-off of National Safe Kids Week in the U.S., April 28th – May 6th, 2007, and the beginning of summer, known by emergency personnel as “trauma season,” because it is the time of year when accidental deaths and serious injuries increase dramatically. This year’s theme is “Make it a Safe Kids Summer,” in which educational efforts will focus on teaching parents and children about the many ways to prevent injury. More...
Hot Weather and Hot Cars Deadly Combination for Children
-At least 41 Texas Children Dead from Hyperthermia Since 1998-
(San Antonio, TX - April 26, 2007) At least 41 Texas children have died from heat stroke in the last nine years after being left alone or trapped in a closed vehicle.
"Every one of these tragedies is avoidable," said Dr. Ronald Stewart, University Hospital Trauma Director, and Trauma Division Chief, at the UT Health Science Center at San Antonio. "We hope by getting the Never Leave Your Child Alone message out now, before the heat really sets in, that lives can be saved." More...
Celebrating a working part of a broken system
-CareLink marks 10 years of affordable healthcare for the uninsured-
(San Antonio, TX - April 19, 2007) The problem of the uninsured is complex and continues to worsen across the country. Listen or read the news and you’ll notice the word “healthcare” is often followed by the word “crisis.” These are tough times for public hospitals, which are charged with providing care for the growing number of patients who arrive in their emergency rooms without health insurance. Times are even tougher for the millions of working families who cannot purchase coverage through their jobs and who cannot afford to get sick. Fortunately, for many of the Bexar County residents in this situation, a decision made ten years ago is working to get them the care they need at a price they can afford. More...
Got Health Insurance?
(San Antonio, TX - April 17, 2007) If you answered yes, that's good news. But, if you've been keeping up with how much more you (and/or your employer) are paying for that coverage, you know it's not been good at all. What you may not know is that - even though you have insurance - your ability to get immediate treatment if you become seriously ill or injured may be in jeopardy. More...
High school students learn valuable life lesson
-Teens get a glimpse of the importance of organ donation and transplant surgery-
(San Antonio, TX - March 22, 2007) When students from Holmes and John Jay high schools left their classrooms this morning to learn about the benefits of organ donation, they never realized how this field trip would turn into a life lesson in courage and second chances. More...
Cultural/linguistic competence self-assessment draws praise
(SAN ANTONIO — March 19, 2007) Three faculty members of The UT Health Science Center at San Antonio and two administrators at the University Health System (UHS) have won the American College of Healthcare Executives' 2007 Edgar C. Hayhow Award for their article on a cultural and linguistic competence self-assessment of University Health System. More...
Our Mission Matters - 2005 Annual Report
-See why so many come to UHS for health, healing and hope-
Learn why the community and the South
Texas region
depend on UHS
in times of crisis.
Most people think
they will never
need a Level I
trauma center, but
everyone should
know that having
one close to home
could save lives. In
the 2005 Annual Report, the goal is to offer
a glimpse of the faces and the facets that
give life to this complex organization and its
critically important mission. More...
University Hospital baby to receive gifts galore
in honor of Cuban leader, José Marti
-Local Cuban Cultural Center to shower neediest newborn with gifts-
(SAN ANTONIO, TX)---A newborn baby born on Jan. 28 will be celebrated with gifts at University Hospital. Each year, members of the Cuban Cultural Center of San Antonio honor a baby born on the birthday of Cuban leader José Marti. The event is part of a program called, "Hope for the World." More...
Vasopressin Trauma Trial to Begin Enrollment
-Study aims to reduce death due to shock-
(SAN ANTONIO, TX - January 11, 2007) What are your odds of surviving a serious car crash or other traumatic injury? Not good if your body loses a great deal of blood and goes into shock. In fact, up to 50 percent of all trauma patients who go into shock die. A study that aims to reduce death due to hemorrhagic shock will begin enrollment at University Hospital within the next week. UT Health Science Center at San Antonio (UTHSC) trauma surgeons will be testing Vasopressin, an FDA-approved medication that is routinely used to treat critically ill patients. More...
Happy New Year, Baby!
-Ringing in the New Year with a New Born Baby-
BACKGROUND: While sounds of fireworks travel across San Antonio and fill the skyline with sparks of beautiful colors, the city's first baby born in 2007 will be greeting the world with their first cries of life.
San Antonio's first baby of the year will receive a BIG welcome into the world and a big gift package from local hospitals in celebration of health, happiness and life. Participating hospitals have gathered a variety of gift items to be presented to baby and parents. More...
He's made a list and checked it twice!
-Santa Claus is coming to University Hospital
BACKGROUND: While most children in San Antonio are anxiously waiting to wake-up Monday morning to check out what Santa has left them, there are no "visions of sugar plumbs dancing in the heads" of the seriously ill and injured children who are thinking about waking up in the hospital Christmas morning. Fortunately, Santa has a soft spot in his heart for these kids so, even after his exhaustive trip around the world; he'll be making a special stop at University Hospital Christmas morning to deliver toys in person.
The pediatric staff members at University Hospital and the UT Health Science Center organized the annual event and are looking forward to making some happy Christmas memories for their patients. All of the children who are able to get out of their beds will gather in the pediatric playroom beginning at 8:30 a.m. to enjoy holiday music, treats and time with Santa. The more critically injured and sick children will get bedside visits. As the lead Level I trauma center for all of South/Central Texas, University Hospital treats thousands of seriously injured children every year. More...
Two receive the gift of their lives, literally
-She is the 1,000th patient to receive a liver transplant at University Hospital
-He got the best gift ever from his brother - half of his living liver
(SAN ANTONIO, TX - December 6, 2006) A couple of area residents aren't at all concerned about what they might find under the Christmas tree this year; they have already received the best gift they could ever want. Gretchen Ferrell and Chance Turner both received the gift of renewed life last month, just in time to enjoy the holiday season with their families. Mrs. Ferrell, a mother of two, woke up from her November 15 operation to learn she was the 1000th patient to receive a liver transplant at The Transplant Center at University Hospital. It's a milestone that places the joint program of The University of Texas Health Center at San Antonio and University Health System among the largest in the nation. One week earlier, 21-year-old Chance Turner received his chance to reclaim a normal life, thanks to the portion of his brother's liver that was placed into his body.
More...
Beware of identity theft during holiday shopping
How to keep your personal information and finances healthy
BACKGROUND: It's the most wonderful time of the year, especially
While millions of Americans are dipping into their pocket books to purchase
are busy stealing personal information. This is called identity theft.
More...
Miracle on Medical Drive
Patient wakes up from year-long coma in time for 55th birthday!
Background: While Susie Robinson, a patient at University Hospital (UH) was in a deep sleep, her husband Bernard spent time praying and hoping for her recovery. He said he truly believed his wife would one day wake up from the coma she had slipped into in the summer of 2005. On Saturday, he’ll be celebrating being right! More...
Former University Health System President honored for diabetes leadership
Guest helped form America's largest diabetes center
BACKGROUND: Diabetes, and its deadly complications, is the number one health problem in our community. Fortunately, there are many in San Antonio dedicated to improving the quality of life of diabetes patients and to finding a cure. And there is a place - owned by the taxpayers of Bexar County - where this tremendously important work is happening everyday. The Texas Diabetes Institute (TDI) - a program of University Health System - is the nation's largest, and most comprehensive center, devoted entirely to battling this disease. TDI is located where it is most needed, on San Antonio's West Side, where the incidence of diabetes is the highest in the nation. More...
Hooked Alive
National program features dramatic survival of man impaled on steel hook
(SAN ANTONIO - November 9, 2006) "Like a fish hook?" That was the first question that
came to Dr. Joe Johnston's mind on December 2, 2004 when he was asked if he could board an
AirLIFE helicopter to go help a man with a hook in his head. The answer was "no" but, even as
an experienced trauma surgeon, Dr. Johnston was not prepared for what he would see when he
walked up to Wayne Gail Creek that day. The dramatic story of Mr. Creek's survival, after
becoming impaled on a four-pound steel hook, is the focus of this week's episode of Untold
Stories of the ER on TLC. Members of the University Hospital/UT Health Science Center trauma team were reunited with Mr. Creek and his wife at a screening of the
episode on Thursday afternoon. More...
Pediatric patients go "trick or treating"
More than 30 pediatric patients will participate in annual Halloween parade
BACKGROUND: Millions of children around the country will be celebrating Halloween with friends and family, but many others will be spending the holiday in the hospital. To make sure there will be plenty of "treats" this year for our pediatric patients, the ChildLife department at University Hospital is bringing Halloween into the hospital. More...
25 years of small beginnings & big dreams
Hospital's teeniest, tiniest babies return for 25th reunion
BACKGROUND: Miracles happen every day at University Hospital, just ask some of the mothers who've delivered premature babies here over the past 25 years. The fears and stress facing parents of extremely tiny newborns can be intense, that's why the PREMIEre Program was established in 1981. This program has helped hundreds of miracle babies and their families go from small beginnings to realizing great expectations. More...
Drug companies save Bexar Co. taxpayers $78 million
University Health System thinks it's about time to say "thanks"
BAKGROUND: For many people, medication is a luxury. What would you choose if you only had enough money to pay either the rent and electric bill or a very expensive medicine? It's a choice real people in our community face every month. And, generally the medicine doesn't get bought. The fact is, sick people remain sick if they can't afford the medication to make them well. More...
A spoon full of laughter helps the medicine go down
It’s Happy Hour at University Hospital
BACKGROUND: It's a fact! Laughter heals like medicine. When we laugh, it helps reduce stress-Blood pressure and heart rates are lowered. Laughter is truly a gift for coping with the stresses of everyday life.
The sounds of our laughter spring from our emotional core, helping us feel better and to see things more clearly. Laughter does the body, mind and soul plenty of good. More...
First new Bell 430 lands at University Hospital
(SAN ANTONIO – September 11, 2006) If you live in the Bexar County area, odds are you’ve heard one and probably even seen one. An AirLIFE Bell 412. They’ve been saving lives in South Texas for 16 years. But, beginning today, there’s a new emergency helicopter in town, the Bell 430. It’s replacing the 412 because it’s faster and less expensive to fly. More...
New diabetes report reveals mixed results for San Antonio
By W. Scott Bailey from the San Antonio Business Journal
(SAN ANTONIO – August 4, 2006) Front-line health care experts and concerned community leaders have spent years working to mitigate the impact that diabetes has had on this city.
There may now be some tangible evidence that those efforts are making a difference. More...
Enrollment ends in blood substitute trauma study
Area residents wearing "opt out" bracelets can remove them
Report on results expected in a few months
(SAN ANTONIO - August 4, 2006) Enrollment of patients in a blood substitute study at several level 1 trauma centers throughout the U.S., including San Antonio's University Hospital and Brooke Army Medical Center, concluded this week. The study, which began in 2004, involved the use of PolyHeme®, an investigational oxygen-carrying blood substitute, developed by Northfield Laboratories Inc. More...
Recognizing suicidal behaviors can save lives
About every 16 minutes, someone in the U.S. intentionally ends their life
BACKGROUND: If you knew how to intervene in an attempted suicide, would you? The first step in preventing suicide is to be able to understand and recognize suicidal behaviors.
Education is the key to recognizing those behaviors, that's why medical educators at University Health System are offering a two-day workshop on suicide intervention skills for community caregivers (professional and other). More...
Hitting the breaks on alcohol-related teen traffic fatalities
Texas continues to lead the nation in teen DWI fatalities
(SAN ANTONIO - July 19, 2006) One of the most exciting experiences for a teen-ager is finally getting behind the wheel. Unfortunately, despite the best efforts of many to prevent teen age drinking and driving, dozens of teens are injured or killed in South Texas every year due to DWI. Thanks to the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC), a program that shocks young drivers by dramatically showing the consequences of drunk driving will continue in Bexar County. More...
University Hospital brings home national honors, again
UT Health Science Center and University Health System partnership named among the top 50 hospitals in the nation for 3 specialties
(SAN ANTONIO – July 7, 2006) For the 7th consecutive year, University Health System, the primary teaching hospital for The UT Health Science Center at San Antonio, is the only San Antonio hospital to rank as one of U.S. News & World Report’s best hospitals. More...
University Health System puts the "lid" on the last 50 years
Staff to celebrate 51st birthday by sealing a time capsule until the year 2055
(SAN ANTONIO - June 29, 2006) What will you be doing 50 years from today? On June 29, 2055 doctors, nurses and other staff members (many of whom are yet to be born) will hopefully be opening a time capsule in celebration of the 100th anniversary of University Health System. More...
University Health System teaches child safety to Bantu Tribe members
Some 200 exiles from Somalia are making a new start in San Antonio
(SAN ANTONIO - May 29, 2006) They spent most of their lives in refugee camps, following the outbreak of civil war in Somalia. They were tortured beyond what most of us could imagine. But after years of living a nightmare, and lots of red tape, they are now in San Antonio, trying to start a new life. More...
University Health System recognized nationally for improving patient care, outcomes & efficiency
(SAN ANTONIO - May 15, 2006) For the second consecutive year, University Health System is ranked among the top 100 hospitals in the nation for clinical and management performance improvement. The Solucient 100 Top Hospitals Performance Improvement Leaders study, measures the rate and consistency of hospital-wide performance over five consecutive years. More...
San Antonio AirLIFE receives National accreditation
(SAN ANTONIO - MAY 15, 2006) San Antonio AirLIFE is among an elite group of emergency transport services in the U.S. to earn re-accreditation from the Commission of Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems (CAMTS). This prestigious accreditation represents the highest standards possible for transport services. More...
University Health System says, pin one on for Fiesta -- instead of tying one on! Don't drink and drive!
UHS celebrates Fiesta with Commemorative Medal
(SAN ANTONIO - April 19, 2006) While San Antonians prepare for the City's BIGGEST street party of the year, University Health System (UHS) reminds Fiesta goers to stay sober behind the wheel and drink responsibly. More...
New Center is about the heart & soul of healing
Peveto Center for Pastoral Care opens at University Hospital
(SAN ANTONIO - April 19, 2006) It is fairly common for hospitals to formally open a new wing or dedicate a hi-tech surgical suite, but most people would probably not expect to be invited to a public hospital to help open and dedicate a new spiritual center. That is exactly what happened today at University Hospital, as the Peveto Center for Pastoral Care opened to the public for the very first time. More...
New trauma trial aims to improve survival of patients in shock
Researchers seeking community input on exception to informed consent
(SAN ANTONIO - March 30, 2006)
What are your odds of surviving a serious traumatic injury? Not good if your body goes into shock. In fact, a third to a half of all trauma patients who go into shock die, and trauma is the leading cause of death in all Americans under the age of 45. Finding a better way to treat patients in shock is the goal of a study to be conducted by UT Health Science Center at San Antonio (UTHSC) surgeons at the Level I trauma center at University Hospital. More...
UHS/UTHSC clinics team up for national program to make patients better
Ten U.S. centers selected to find best ways to change bad behaviors in patients
(SAN ANTONIO - March 14, 2006) It's no secret that many Americans are having a hard time following all the recommended healthy behaviors. Smoking, poor diets, too much alcohol and a lack of exercise are all leading to an increase in serious problems like diabetes, heart disease, stroke and cancer. In response, the University Health System (UHS) and The UT Health Science Center at San Antonio (UTHSC) are part of a new initiative, called Prescription for Health, which aims to promote better health and reduce health risks. More...
Local child safety expert to help save lives nationally
(SAN ANTONIO - February 22, 2006)
Each year hundreds of young children are killed in car crashes and thousands more are injured seriously enough to be rushed to hospital emergency rooms. Using car safety seats and seat belts correctly is the best way to prevent this from happening to your child. In Bexar County , car crashes are one of the main causes of unintentional injury death in children. More...
Restored trauma funding is just what the doctor ordered
University Hospital trauma center should receive an additional $1.5 million
(SAN ANTONIO - February 20, 2006) University Health System should receive an additional $1.5 million this year to cover some of the costs of providing uncompensated trauma care thanks to a state funding package announced last week by Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst and House Speaker Tom Craddick. More...
UHS doctor dedicated to serving the poor in San Antonio retires
Dr. Benavides placed patients before a paycheck
(SAN ANTONIO - January 26, 2006) Dr. Jose M. Benavides spent most of his career caring for the less fortunate in the community. Benavides served as a part-time Clinical Professor of Medicine in the Out-patient Clinic at University Health Center - Downtown for 12 years. More...
Hope for the world begins with one baby born at University Hospital
Local Cuban Cultural Center set to honor Cuba's Father of Independence
(SAN ANTONIO - January 20, 2006) January 28 will be quite a "birthday" for one newborn at University Hospital, as the Cuban Cultural Center of San Antonio continues its annual tradition of honoring a baby born on the birthday of Cuban leader José Marti. The event is part of a program called "Hope for the World." More...
AirLIFE partners sign contracts to replace current fleet of helicopters
The 3 state-of-the art medical helicopters will be faster AND more fuel efficient
(SAN ANTONIO - January 4, 2006) Most of us never expect we will ever find ourselves literally taking the ride of our life through the skies over Bexar County. But a couple of signatures on some papers today mean that if you are ever critically injured or ill, the speed and skill your life may depend on will be readily available well into the future. More...
For earlier press releases, please email our Public Relations department or call us at 210-358-2335.
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