The 2008-2009 Chanute Prize Recipient

Community Healthcare System (CHS) - "Breast Cancer: Same Day Results" 

This 2008-2009 “Team of the Year” is the recipient of the Chanute Prize for Team Innovation for its “Breast Care: Same Day Results” project. CHS was presented the “Traveling Trophy” this year for its fast-track system to advise patients of the results of their screening mammograms within the same visit. Should a non-surgical biopsy be required, patients will know the results the same day the test is performed.

This program of same-day results now spans all three CHS hospitals: Community Hospital in Munster; St. Catherine Hospital, East Chicago; and St. Mary Medical Center in Hobart. Innovative approaches, an investment in new technology and the validation of scientific process changes have eliminated much of the “anxious agony” women endure while waiting for results. The wait for a screening mammogram was reduced from up to four days, while the wait for a non-surgical biopsy result was reduced from two days. This focus on transforming the “mammography experience” has also expedited the many steps needed to confirm the finding of breast cancer. By enabling women to move more quickly through the critical window of opportunity – the time between diagnosis and treatment – the innovations have improved the quality of healthcare in our community.

The project involves a multi-disciplinary team of physicians, nurses, technicians, and support staff. These innovations were championed by John Gorski, Senior Vice President of Hospital Operations for the Community Healthcare System, and two physicians: Dr. Mary Nicholson, a Fellowship-Trained Breast Radiologist and Dr. Brenda Eriksen, Laboratory Medical Director. This nomination was endorsed by Mayo Medical Clinic Laboratories, citing that “institutions around the country, including the Mayo Clinic, can learn a great deal from this committed team.” This award by Krieg DeVault consists of a permanent plaque and a $500 gift toward a charity.