A healthcare management systems group has given Dean Clinic, St. Mary's and Stoughton Hospitals with an award recognizing their adoption of electronic records.

HIMSS Analytics, the research division of the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society, said the facilities have earned the award by completing the final stage in transitioning from hard copy records.

Reaching Stage 7 means that all records at a facility are electronic to make records accessible throughout locations and reduces preventable errors.

In addition, hospitals and health systems that have attained Stage 7 are able to share patient information with other health care providers, which can ultimately improve patient care and safety.

Dean Clinic and St. Mary’s Hospital said the organizations are the first ambulatory and hospital to partner in the country that have both been recognized with the electronic health record adoption at the same time.

In 2001, dying 20-year-old man helped 55 people   

Twelve years ago, Mary Myskewitz and her family were faced with something they never expected: their 20-year-old son was dying and his physician was asking if he had spoken to them about organ donation.

"All of the family present answered yes in unison," recalled Myskewitz. "The bell went off and we knew we had to do it. That was easy because we had talked to him in the past and knew it was his desire."

Myskewitz's son Rob was able to help more than 55 people with that one decision thanks to his organ, eye and tissue donation.

In an event Thursday, as part of National Donate Life Month, Myskewitz will speak at 11:15 a.m. in the main lobby at St. Mary's Hospital. She said she hopes to spread the word about organ donation impact.

It's almost time to spring forward, and Wisconsin officials are using the occasion to remind residents about home safety.

Daylight saving time begins Sunday, when Wisconsinites will set the clocks ahead one hour. Safety officials said the event marks a convenient reminder to do annual checks.

For example:

• Consider replacing the batteries in smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors
• If you don't have an emergency kit at home, now's the time to get one
• If you do have an emergency kit, put fresh batteries in the flashlight and make sure the food, water and first-aid kit are all in good condition

The Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs has additional safety tips on its website.