NYPHS Press Room

Upcoming Events: Community Health Network August Events

2010-08-02T18:50:40Z

Contact:

Elizabeth Howell

Development and Public Relations

(212) 545-2404

Health Fair at Long Island City Health Center
When: Wednesday August 4, 10am-2pm
What: Free health screenings: HIV counseling & testing, pregnancy testing, blood pressure and diabetes checks.
Where: Long Island City Health Center 36-11 21st St Long Island City, NY 11106

More Info: Call (718) 482-7772 or email info@chnnyc.org
Learn more about Long Island City!

]]> National Health Center Week at Caribbean House Health Center...
When: Tuesday August 10-Friday August 13
What: Free health screenings: HIV counseling & testing, pregnancy testing, blood pressure and diabetes checks.
Where: Caribbean House Health Center 1167 Nostrand Ave Brooklyn, NY 11225
More Info: Call (718) 778-0198 or email info@chnnyc.org
Learn more about Caribbean House!

Dr. Betty Shabazz Health Center's 4th Annual Block Party

When: Tuesday August 10, 10am-2pm
What: The day includes music, a clown, face painting, popcorn, a bouncy house, giveaways & a raffle, and FREE health screenings: HIV counseling & testing, pregnancy testing, blood pressure and diabetes checks.
Where: Dr. Betty Shabazz Health Center 999 Blake Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11208
More Info: Call (718) 277-8303 or email info@chnnyc.org
Learn more about Dr. Betty Shabazz!

Helen B. Atkinson Health Center National Immunization Awareness Event
When: Wednesday August 11, 2pm-4pm
What: August is National Immunization Awareness Month and HBA is offering free immunizations and information. Are you and your family up to date on all your shots? Stop by the center and find out!
Where: Helen B. Atkinson Health Center 81 W. 115th St New York, NY 10026
More Info: Call (212) 426-0088 or email info@chnnyc.org
Learn more about Helen B. Atkinson!

Community League Health Center at CLOTH's 59th Annual Health & Cultural Festival
When: Wednesday August 11, 10am-8pm
What: Free health screenings, safety materials, educational materials. Free food & entertainment.
Where: 159th St btwn. Broadway and Amsterdam
More Info: Call (212) 781-7979 or email info@chnnyc.org

Queens Health Center's 2nd Annual Block Party
When: Saturday August 14, 10am-3pm

What: The day includes a bouncy house, refreshments, a clown, face painting, giveaways, music, NYC Fire Department, info booths of 15 community agencies and FREE health screenings: HIV counseling & testing, pregnancy testing, blood pressure and diabetes checks.
Where: Queens Health Center 97-04 Sutphin Blvd Jamaica, NY 11435
More Info: Call (718) 657-7088 or email info@chnnyc.org
Learn more about Queens!

Prevention & Community Health Event at Community League Health Center
When: Thursday August 19, 11am-3pm
What: Free health screenings: HIV counseling & testing, pregnancy testing, blood pressure & diabetes checks. Free mammography (no insurance required, just call to add your name to the list), prevention screening information, face painting, healthy snacks and giveaways.
Where: Community League Health Center 1996 Amsterdam Ave New York, NY 10032
More Info: Call (212) 781-7979 or email info@chnnyc.org
Learn more about Community League!

Back to School Health Fair at Caribbean House Health Center
When: Tuesday August 31, 10am-3pm
What: Stop by to schedule an appointment for a back to school check-up! Also, free health screenings including HIV counseling & testing, pregnancy testing, blood pressure checks and diabetes checks.
Where: Caribbean House Health Center 1167 Nostrand ave Brooklyn, NY 11225
More Info: Call (718) 778-0198 or email info@chnnyc.org
Learn more about Caribbean House!

New York Methodist Offers New Cutting Edge Radiation Therapy Procedure

2010-07-28T21:01:21Z

Contact:

Jodi-Ann Bailey

Public Affairs Associate

(718) 780-5367

jsb9010@nyp.org

Brooklyn, NY – July 28, 2010 – New York Methodist Hospital is now offering a new type of radiation therapy for select patients with difficult to reach (or inoperable) tumors. The procedure, stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), is a technique designed to deliver radiation therapy very precisely to tumors in the lung, liver, spine and pancreas – tumors could not be treated as precisely with conventional radiation therapy and that may be inoperable.

]]> Like its predecessor, stereotactic radiosurgery, another procedure offered at the Hospital that has become the gold standard for treating brain tumors, SBRT treats tumors without damaging the surrounding tissue. The precision associated with SBRT helps reduce the dose of radiation to normal tissue around a tumor, thus minimizing side effects for patients. While it delivers a high dose of radiation, SBRT is given for just three days, and each treatment takes only about 15 minutes.

“We knew that this technology would be ideal for some tumors in the body,” said Hani Ashamalla, M.D., chairman of radiation oncology at NYM. Ashamalla, But researchers first had to develop ways to immobilize the patient and track mobile tumors especially those affected by the breathing cycle, such as lung and liver tumors, through a technique called respiratory gating.” Respiratory gating is the latest advance in radiation oncology to permit a reduction in the volume of normal tissue treated. Using a multi-slice, four-dimensional CT scanner (the fourth dimension is time) and computers capable of storing and manipulating the necessary 1,500 CT images, radiation oncologists measure the tumor’s range of motion during respiration and customize the treatment field to the patient, based on the magnitude and direction of tumor motion.”

“We are very pleased with the results,” said Dr. Ashamalla, who added that patients have not experienced any unwanted side effects. “This technology offers hope to those whose tumors may not be treatable by other means.”

For more information about SBRT and other radiation therapy procedures offered at the Hospital, call 718 780-3677.

Maureen Gaffney, RPAC, RN, Named Senior Vice President, Patient Care Services at Winthrop-University Hospital

2010-07-27T18:25:01Z

Contact:

Wendy L. Goldstein

Director, Public Affairs

(516) 663-2234

wgoldstein@winthrop.org

Mineola, NY – July 27, 2010 – John F. Collins, President & CEO of Winthrop-University Hospital, announced the promotion of Maureen Gaffney, RPAC, RN, to Senior Vice President, Patient Care Services at Winthrop. Ms. Gaffney serves in this capacity concurrent with her role as the Hospital’s Chief Medical Information Officer (CMIO).

]]> As Senior Vice President, Patient Care Services, Ms. Gaffney is responsible for the oversight of the Hospital’s Quality and Patient Safety Program and the following clinical departments: Physician Assistant/Nurse Practitioner Services, Pharmacy, Laboratory/Pathology, Imaging Services, Respiratory Services, Rehabilitative Services, Clinical Informatics, Neurodiagnostics and Dialysis Services at Winthrop. In addition, she is working with the Hospital’s Nursing Department as well as the Cardiac Catherization, Electrophysiology and Endoscopy Labs to continue to further Winthrop’s mission of providing outstanding care to patients.

Ms. Gaffney began her career at Winthrop in 1992 as a registered nurse. In 1997, she began working as a Physician Assistant – a position she continues to uphold within the Hospital’s Department of Medicine. In 2000, Ms. Gaffney was appointed Director of Physician Assistant/Nurse Practitioner Services, a role she successfully carried out for a decade. She was named CMIO in 2006. As CMIO, Ms. Gaffney has facilitated hospital wide quality and patient safety initiatives through the use and implementation of health information technology that led Winthrop-University Hospital to be the recipient of the 2009 American Hospital Association (AHA) Pursuit of Excellence Award and the 2009 HANYS Pinnacle Award for Quality and Safety.

Ms. Gaffney will receive her Master of Health Science degree from Drexel University and has a Bachelor of Science degree in Physician Assistant Studies from Stony Brook University. In addition, Ms. Gaffney holds an Associate of Science degree in Nursing from Nassau Community College. Ms Gaffney is a guest lecturer at the Stony Brook University Physician Assistant Program.

A fellow of the American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA), Ms. Gaffney is certified by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA). She serves as the Treasurer of the Executive Board of the eHealth Network of Long Island Regional Health Information Organization (RHIO) and is a member of the organization’s Clinical, Quality and Evaluation Committee.

Ms. Gaffney resides in Westbury, NY.

Winthrop-University Hospital Names J. Edmund Keating, Vice President, Marketing & Advertising

2010-07-21T13:49:41Z

Contact:

Wendy L. Goldstein

Director, Public Affairs

(516) 663-2234

wgoldstein@winthrop.org

Mineola, NY – July 21, 2010 – Winthrop-University Hospital is pleased to announce the appointment of J. Edmund Keating to the position of Vice President, Marketing & Advertising. In this role, Mr. Keating is responsible for all aspects of the Hospital’s strategic marketing and advertising initiatives, as well as the Hospital’s Department of Public Affairs and Community Relations.

]]> An accomplished marketer, Mr. Keating has over 30 years of professional experience in a broad range of advertising and communications disciplines including brand advertising, media planning, public relations, sales support, event marketing, research and web development. Prior to launching his own advertising and marketing agency, Cornerstone Communications, in 1999, Mr. Keating held senior management positions at firms including Earle Palmer Brown, Omnicom, Griffin Bacal, Inc., Backer Spielvogel Bates and Wells Rich Greene.

“We are very pleased to have someone of Ed’s experience and talent join our marketing team,” said John Collins, President and Chief Executive Officer of Winthrop. “Ed has an excellent record of success in the marketing and communications arena. The talent he brings to Winthrop will be a true asset as we continue to build awareness of Winthrop-University Hospital and its role as one of the region’s leading providers of state-of-the-art medical services combined with a unique tradition of compassionate, patient-centered care.”

With experience in both domestic and international advertising, Mr. Keating has an illustrious record of developing and leading award-winning brand and corporate marketing communications programs for an impressive list of clients including the Miller Brewing Company, Lever Bros., NCR Corporation, Northern Telecom, JP Morgan, Fisher Price Toys, North American Phillips and Sharp Electronics, among others. He has helped introduce well over 100 new products to market.

Early in his career, he was instrumental in the creation of the highly successful “I Love NY” campaign, which helped establish a benchmark for state tourism advertising throughout the country.

An active member of the community, Mr. Keating serves as a Life Director and former President of the Men’s Association of Garden City, as well as a Director and Treasurer of The Committee to Save St. Paul’s. He also served as a member of the Crystal Ball Committee for the Diabetes Research Institute and was the recipient of the organization’s 2002 Humanitarian Award.

Mr. Keating earned his Bachelor of Arts in English from St. John’s University and his Master of Arts degree in English from New York University. Before beginning his advertising career, he taught writing and literature at Queens College of the City University of New York. A resident of Garden City, NY, Mr. Keating and his wife, Marion have two grown children.

Distinguished Local Artist Phyllis Segura Donates Paintings to Nyack Hospital

2010-07-20T20:50:43Z

Contact:

Amy Massimo

Director, Public Affairs

(845) 348-2773

massimoa@nyackhospital.org

Nyack, NY – July 20, 2010 – A recent visit to Nyack Hospital and a desire to share her love of painting inspired Phyllis Segura to write a letter to Nyack Hospital President & CEO David Freed. “As an artist, I am very sensitive to my environment. Bright colors and beautiful artwork makes me feel good,” Ms. Segura remarked. “I wanted to share that feeling with patients in the hospital,” the Piermont resident continued.

Three striking paintings will soon be hung in the Hospital’s Oncology area where patients, visitors, employees and volunteers may enjoy their beauty.

]]> A Fine Arts graduate of Boston University, Ms. Segura’s artwork has been exhibited at such venues as the Positano Art School in Italy, NY Open Center, L'Officina de Flavia Zanetti in Switzerland, Freelance Café in nearby Piermont, Grape d'Vine in Tappan, London’s The Roundhouse and New York’s Carlton Arms Hotel.

Her painting themes oscillate between the interior-oriented personal to large-scale works in the public sphere. In 1999, she completed three decorative murals on newsstands in Times Square with four high school student apprentices. In 2001, the Piermont Garden Herbal-Part One included her drawings and stampings. In 1970, Ms. Segura co-founded and co-edited the video journal Radical Software. Recent paintings reflect Ms. Segura’s interpretations of the Hudson River, horizon and sky.

Combining a love of cooking and artwork, Ms. Segura, who is also an award-winning chef, is currently working on a cookbook that applies meditation principles to the preparation of food. She says, “There is a flow between painters and chefs; it’s a connection made naturally both ways.”

Stamford Hospital's Lumbar Spinal Fusion Program becomes only Joint Commission Certified Program in Connecticut

2010-07-20T19:12:03Z

Contact:

Scott Orstad

Manager, Corporate Communications

(203) 276-5933

sorstad@stamhealth.org

Stamford, CT – July 20, 2010 – Stamford Hospital’s Orthopedic Services have earned Joint Commission certification for its Lumbar Spinal Fusion Program, making it the only Joint Commission-certified program in Connecticut.

]]> “This certification verifies that our staff offers the highest possible quality and caliber of care to the community,” said Rudolph Taddonio, M.D., Stamford Hospital’s Chief of Orthopedic Surgery. “Our orthopedic surgeons and neurosurgeons work together very well on this collaborative effort to uphold a consistent continuum of care. We are extremely proud that the Joint Commission, a well-respected third-party surveyor, has validated our efforts.”

According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, approximately 250,000 spinal fusions are performed each year. Lumbar fusion is a spinal surgery designed to treat pain associated with conditions such as degenerative disc disease. The surgery involves placing small pieces of bone in front and/or in back of the spine allowing the bone to grow together and fuse, limiting the motion in painful joint or spine segments. While the procedure spans generations, it is growing in popularity especially among younger clients as it allows for a quick return to active routines and lifestyles.

“What makes our program so unique is the continuous care our patients receive starting prior to hospitalization through their return to home,” said Vicki Hoffman, Director of the Orthopedic Institute. “Before surgery, patients learn about the procedure at educational classes, facilitated by our dedicated clinical nurse coordinator. After surgery, this coordinator continues to oversee patients during their hospital stay and follows up with them upon their return home. This way, patients are never left with questions about the procedure or what they should expect from their recovery. We have a focused program with a dedicated team of professionals, including anesthesia, nursing and therapists to name a few. All of our nurses have completed specialized training in the care of spine patients and several have gone on to achieve the status of Certified Orthopedic Nurse. I think all of this speaks to the team’s level of commitment to provide high quality care.”

After being evaluated on-site by a Joint Commission reviewer, Stamford Hospital’s spine surgery program was awarded the Gold Seal of Approval™ for complying with the highest national standards for safety and quality of care. The program will be reviewed every two years to retain this certification.

Founded in 1951, the Joint Commission seeks to continuously improve the safety and quality of care provided to the public through the provision of health care accreditation and related services that support performance improvement in health care organizations. An independent, not-for-profit organization, the Joint Commission is the nation's oldest and largest standards-setting and accrediting body in health care. More information about the Joint Commission and a list of certified programs are available at www.jointcommission.org.

For more information about Stamford Hospital’s orthopedic services or to find a physician, please visit www.stamfordhospitalortho.com or call (877) 233-9355.

Mary Fiore named Director of Special Events at Nyack Hospital

2010-07-20T13:41:31Z

Mary Fiore named Director of Special Events at Nyack Hospital

Contact:

Amy Massimo

Director, Public Affairs

(845) 348-2773

massimoa@nyackhospital.org

Nyack, NY – July 20, 2010 – Nyack Hospital is pleased to announce the appointment of Mary Fiore as Director of Special Events. Ms. Fiore will be responsible for the ongoing calendar of special events which raise funds for Nyack Hospital, as well as for the development of new funding and sponsorship opportunities.

Ms. Fiore brings to her position a strong background in fundraising and event planning, after having served as principal of her own firm for over ten years. Ms. Fiore specializes in all areas of event-related fundraising and has produced events such as galas for 800, as well as serving on a team that produced conferences for nearly 2,000 attendees.

Prior to heading her own firm, Ms. Fiore honed her skills in event logistics and protocol as the Director of Development at the Princess Grace Foundation-USA, the charitable endeavor of The Princely Family of Monaco. Ms. Fiore holds dual Bachelors of Arts in History and Art History from Syracuse University. She sits on the board of the Lower Hudson Valley Chapter of the American Red Cross, as well as the Greater New York Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals. Ms. Fiore resides in Valley Cottage, NY with her husband and three children.

Asian Liver Center at Holy Name Medical Center Receives $102,000 in Grants to Support Hepatitis B Awareness Campaign

2010-07-20T13:36:40Z

Contact:

Katherine Emmanouilidi

Manager, Marketing and Public Relations

(201) 833-7092

emmanouilidi@holyname.org

Teaneck, NJ – July 20, 2010 – The Asian Liver Center at Holy Name Medical Center was recently awarded three grants to support its Hepatitis B Awareness Campaign. The funds, which total $102,000, are from the Gilead Foundation ($50,000), a non-profit organization funded by Gilead Sciences, Inc. that supports projects addressing health disparities and unmet needs; The Grace and Mercy Foundation ($42,000), which focuses on community-based health, social, faith-based, and education programs; and Bristol-Myers Squibb ($10,000), the biopharmaceutical company. Holy Name's Hepatitis B Awareness Campaign consists of education and prevention initiatives, screenings, and disease surveillance for Asian-Americans, a population identified as one of the leading carriers of this serious and potentially deadly disease.

]]> "We are fortunate to have partners in the biomedical and philanthropic communities who understand the wisdom and humanity of the Hepatitis B Awareness Campaign," says Michael Maron, President/CEO, Holy Name Medical Center. "The Gilead Foundation, the Grace and Mercy Foundation and Bristol-Myers Squibb are highly respected organizations; their support is further testament of our program's value and speaks to its uniqueness. We are so grateful for their generosity."

Chul S. Hyun, M.D., Ph.D., gastroenterologist and medical director of Holy Name's Asian Liver Center, says the hepatitis B virus is endemic to many Asian populations abroad, especially those in Korea, China, Vietnam and certain parts of Africa, as well as to many Asians in America. He estimates that up to 10 percent of Asian-Americans may carry the hepatitis B virus, compared with 0.2 percent of the white population in the U.S.

"This is a huge disparity, and not many healthcare organizations are doing anything about it," says Dr. Hyun, who authored the grant application to the Gilead Foundation. "Up to 25 percent of virus carriers can develop life-limiting and potentially fatal complications, including cirrhosis [scarring] of the liver and liver cancer. We need to educate and screen those at risk."

Hepatitis B is a contagious liver disease that ranges in severity from mild and lasting a few weeks (acute) to a serious, lifelong illness (chronic). The hepatitis B virus is spread through blood, semen, and other body fluids infected with the virus. It can also be transmitted from mother to baby during childbirth. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people with chronic hepatitis B infection should receive care and regular monitoring from a physician experienced in the treatment of hepatitis B.

Culturally and Linguistically Sensitive Care Make the Difference

The Asian Liver Center, which is under the auspices of Holy Name's Korean Medical Program, offers prevention initiatives, including vaccination and education. It conducts screenings to detect hepatitis B carriers (people infected with chronic hepatitis B) and determines if they are candidates for anti-viral therapy. For those with advanced illness, the Center can offer minimally invasive treatments through Holy Name's Interventional Institute and surgery, if necessary.

"Our plan is to reach out to 1,000 low income/uninsured people with the hepatitis B blood test screenings in the first year of the program," explains Kyung-Hee Choi, director, Korean Medical Program. "We expect to see 350 to 400 people who would require vaccinations and/or follow up treatment. The Asian Liver Center will work with these people through every step of their care management needs."

Beyond its comprehensive services, the Asian Liver Center further differentiates itself from similar programs by personalizing the care environment specifically to Asians. "Many organizations screen and educate," explains Dr. Hyun. "They find hepatitis B carriers and tell them to see a liver specialist. So what do these patients do? Some enter the system, others get lost in the follow-up because of the barriers posed by language and culture. We have learned that language and culture are essential to increasing compliance with health care advice. At Holy Name, our program is very culturally and linguistically sensitive, and it is closely-knit with the Asian community."

"A community network, the medical and surgical expertise, and the passion to reach out to this population—Gilead, Grace and Mercy, and Bristol-Myers Squibb see there is no program like this in the metropolitan area," says Dr. Hyun.

For more information about Holy Name Medical Center's Asian Liver Center and the Hepatitis B Awareness Campaign, call 201-833-3399.

Holy Name Medical Center Welcomes Public to Test-Drive da Vinci® Si HD™ Robotic Surgical System July 22-24

2010-07-20T13:33:09Z

Contact:

Katherine Emmanouilidi

Manager, Marketing and Public Relations

(201) 833-7092

emmanouilidi@holyname.org

Teaneck, NJ – July 20, 2010 – You've probably taken a prospective new car for spin. Maybe you've had fun with one of the new smartphones before committing. But have you ever test-driven a robotic surgical system? Now that's a trip! Members of the general public will have the opportunity to demo the da Vinci® Si HD™ Surgical System at Holy Name Medical Center on Thursday, July 22 through Saturday, July 24 from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. in the Medical Center's main lobby. Representatives from manufacturer Intuitive Surgical and Holy Name staff will be on hand to help participants operate the device, experience its robotic arms, and learn more the technology's capabilities.

]]> Name Medical Center acquired the latest da Vinci® Si HD™ Surgical System in August 2009, the absolute leading-edge in robotic surgery technology in Bergen County. At Holy Name, surgeons are using this amazing, minimally-invasive system in the practice of urology, gynecology and gynecologic oncology, treating illnesses and abnormalities with greater precision and control than ever before possible.

Using robotic "arms" and specialized instruments inserted through small incisions (about half an inch each) in the body, surgeons operate with the advantage of three-dimensional, high-definition visuals that provide superior depth perception and up to 10x magnification. The system's intuitive instrumentation affords exceptional motor control and natural dexterity, allowing the robotic arms to become an extension of the surgeon's own hands but with the benefit of 360° range of motion that's not possible with the human hand or with laparoscopy.

John Scheuch, M.D., a board-certified urologist on staff at Holy Name who is highly proficient in the performance of robotically-assisted prostatectomies (prostate removal), says the da Vinci® Si HD™ Surgical System isn't just hi-tech bells and whistles, but offers real benefits to patients and the surgeons who treat them.

"Millimeters matter during prostate surgery because minute nerve fibers and blood vessels responsible for healthy functioning are attached to the prostate gland," notes Dr. Scheuch, who says the latest generation da Vinci® robotic surgery system allows him to see with unparalleled clarity and magnification, and to achieve a high degree of accuracy. "To spare these nerves, they must be delicately and precisely separated from the prostate before its removal. Preserving these important tissues increases a patient's chance of emerging from the surgery free of side effects and complications, such as incontinence and erectile dysfunction."

Other benefits, he says, include less pain, less blood loss, a shorter hospital stay, and quicker return to normal activities. For more information about Holy Name's daVinci® Si HD™ Surgical System or to consult with a surgeon who uses the system, call 877-HOLY-NAME (877-465-9626).

Upcoming Programs: NewYork-Presbyterian School of Continuing Education for Nurses

2010-07-20T01:19:12Z

To register or for more information, please to go the link below:

www.nyp.org/nursing/news/cme

Contact hours will be awarded upon completion of the program.

For more information, please email nursingsce@nyp.org

CONTINUING EDUCATION COURSES

The Oncology Nursing Society

Chemotherapy and Biotherapy Course

(Two Day Program)

October 6 - 7

Advanced Concepts of Hemodynamics and the Management of Shock States

(One Day Program)

July 26

October 25

Basic Dysrhythmia Recognition Course

(Two Day Program)

August 2 and 6

Basic Dysrhythmia Recognition Course

(Two Day Program)

November 15 and19

Basic Critical Care Nursing Course

(Four Day Program)

August 20, 25, 27, and 31

December 3, 6, 8, and 10

12 Lead EKG Interpretation

(One Day Program)

September 27

Interpreting Lab Values and Diagnostic Exams

(One Day Program)

November 22

CERTIFICATION REVIEW COURSES

CNRN Neurology Certification Review

August 18 - 19

CEN (Emergency) Certification Review

September 23 - 24

OCN Certification Review

September 23 - 24

Med/Surg Certification Review

October 7 - 8

CNOR (Operating Room) Certification Review

October 23 - 24

CONFERENCES

Patient Education Symposium

Art and Science of Patient Education

September 30, 2010

Clinical Updates in Emergency Medicine

For Physician Assistants and Nurse Practitioners

Sunday, October 3, 2010

For more information and to register for this course ONLY go to:

www.emclinicalupdates.com

Department of Nursing Leadership Symposium

Leading in a Time of Change

October 27, 2010

J.D. Power and Associates Reports: Holy Name Medical Center Provides Outstanding Maternity, Inpatient and Emergency Experiences

2010-07-19T19:03:12Z

Contact:

Katherine Emmanouilidi

Manager, Marketing and Public Relations

(201) 833-7092

emmanouilidi@holyname.org

Teaneck, NJ – July 19, 2010 - Holy Name Medical Center in Teaneck, N.J. has been recognized for service excellence under the J.D. Power and Associates Distinguished Hospital Program.sm This distinction acknowledges the strong commitment by Holy Name Medical Center to provide "An Outstanding Maternity Experience," "An Outstanding Inpatient Experience" and "An Outstanding Emergency Experience."

]]> The service excellence distinction was determined by surveying recently discharged patients about their perceptions of their hospital visit and comparing the results to the national benchmarks established in the annual J.D. Power and Associates National Hospital Service Performance Study.

According to J.D. Power and Associates, "Holy Name Medical Center has demonstrated an impressive performance across multiple service areas. This recognition distinguishes the care the facility provides and places it within a select group of hospitals nationwide."

"Earning recognition from an organization with the international reputation and credibility of J.D. Power and Associates is really very satisfying," said Michael Maron, President/CEO, Holy Name Medical Center. "The pride of our Medical Center is our people, and this sends that message home. For us, 'Excellence begins with me' is a principle we take very seriously, and that's reflected in this award. I commend our nursing staff, as well as our physicians and all the allied health professionals who support them. As a team, they create the patient-focused culture we have here at Holy Name, where quality care, patient safety and compassionate service are the basis of everything we do."

Exceeds national benchmarks for key drivers of patient satisfaction

The telephone-based research conducted among Holy Name Medical Center patients focuses on the five key drivers of patient satisfaction with their overall experience. These drivers, which were identified in the national study, are speed and efficiency; dignity and respect; comfort; information and communication; and emotional support.

Holy Name Medical Center exceeds the national benchmark study score for overall maternity, inpatient and emergency satisfaction and performs particularly well, compared with the national study, in providing patients with dignity and respect, as well as emotional support.

Among maternity patients, the facility receives notably high ratings for respect for patients' privacy and the courtesy of nurses. More than three-fourths (77%) of maternity patients indicate that they "definitely will" recommend the Medical Center to their family and friends.

Holy Name performs well among inpatients for nurses' courtesy and nurses' willingness to address questions/concerns. Thirty-eight percent of inpatients say they have "much more" confidence in the Medical Center after their stay.

Among emergency patients, Holy Name receives high ratings for the nurses' courtesy and the treatment of family and friends. More than three-fourths (76%) of patients say they "definitely will" return to the hospital for emergency services if needed.

Study Places Holy Name Medical Center's Maternity Care in Top 5% in the Nation

2010-07-16T15:11:58Z

Contact:

Katherine Emmanouilidi

Manager, Marketing and Public Relations

(201) 833-7092

emmanouilidi@holyname.org

Teaneck, NJ – July 16, 2010 – Maternity care at Holy Name Medical Center is among the top 5% in the nation, according to a new study issued in June by HealthGrades, the independent ratings organization. The study used state government data to compare hospitals, in terms of complication rates for vaginal and C-section deliveries, as well as neonatal mortality. As a result, the Medical Center received the 2010/2011 HealthGrades Maternity Care Excellence Award™. Holy Name has achieved a five-star rating in maternity care for five consecutive years.

]]>

"Holy Name has always been known as 'a great place to have your baby,'" notes Michael Maron, President/CEO, Holy Name Medical Center. "Our priorities are patient safety, quality care and exceeding expectations, and we enjoy a high rate of success in accomplishing those goals. It's satisfying to have that acknowledged on a national level."

When reflecting on the reasons for Holy Name's distinguished service in this area, Mr. Maron noted, "The Women's and Children's staff is extremely attentive to patients' needs, and they're highly skilled in their individual specialties. They also work wonderfully as a team, with mutual respect between nurses and physicians. That collegial relationship creates a positive environment and produces truly excellent care."

Specific features that contribute to outstanding maternity care at Holy Name include:

24/7 in-house coverage by board-certified obstetricians and pediatricians
24/7 in-house coverage by board-certified anesthesiologists specifically dedicated to obstetrics
24/7 coverage by board-certified neonatologists
Maternal-fetal medicine program and perinatal high-risk services
Central fetal monitoring
Maternal monitoring
Dedicated staff in labor and delivery, postpartum and the special care nursery

Fewer maternal complications and low neonatal mortality

As a group, top-rated hospitals by HealthGrades had 51% fewer maternal complications for vaginal deliveries and 74% fewer maternal complications for C-sections when compared with the poorest-rated hospitals.

The study examined all hospitals in the 19 states that collect and publish outcomes data from hospitals, 1,546 in all. The study found that if all hospitals, among the 19 states studied, performed at the level of best-performing hospitals, 176,654 women may have avoided developing one or more in-hospital major obstetric complications during the period studied (2006 – 2008).

"Objective data shows that hospitals can vary in terms of complication rates and neonatal mortality rates," said Rick May, MD, a vice president with HealthGrades and co-author of the study. "The hospitals in the top 5% in the nation for maternity care should be proud not only of the outstanding care they deliver, but also for the quality benchmarks they are setting for other hospitals to follow."

For this analysis by HealthGrades, hospitals were evaluated using the following criteria:

Maternal complication rate among women undergoing single live-born vaginal or C-section deliveries
Maternal complication rate among women undergoing "patient-choice" or non-clinically indicated C-sections
Newborn volume adjusted for low birth weight Newborn mortality rate stratified into eight birth weight categories

The complete methodology for the HealthGrades Maternity Care study can be found at www.healthgrades.com.

White Plains Hospital Nurse Invited to Present Abstract at National Nursing Conference

2010-07-15T20:33:25Z

Contact:

Melissa Weisstuch

Vice President, Marketing

(914) 681-2380

mweisstuch@wphospital.org

White Plains, NY – July 15, 2010 – White Plains Hospital congratulates staff nurse Jennifer Bello, BSN, RN, of White Plains, who recently spoke at the American Organization of Nurse Executives (AONE) conference in Indianapolis in April after submitting an abstract on Maintaining Patient Safety Through Innovation: An Electronic SBAR Communication Tool.

Ms. Bello worked to create and implement the SBAR (Situation-Background-Assessment-Recommendation) technique at White Plains Hospital to maintain a standardized approach to hand off communication and enhance patient safety. The SBAR technique provides a framework for communication between members of the health care team about a patient's condition. SBAR is an easy-to-remember, concrete mechanism which allows for an easy and focused way to set expectations for what will be communicated, and how it will be communicated, between members of the team, which is essential for developing teamwork and furthering a culture of patient safety.

Ms. Bello graduated from SUNY Binghamton with a BS in 2003. She worked as a staff nurse at White Plains Hospital in the Medical Surgical Unit for 4 years and later was promoted to Assistant Nurse Manager in 2007. Ms. Bello was instrumental in the building of all assessment screens currently in use within the computerized system at White Plains Hospital.

NewYork-Presbyterian Ranks Among the Top 10 in the Nation According to U.S. News Media Group's 2010-11 Best Hospitals

2010-07-15T20:16:31Z

Contact:

Bryan Dotson

(212) 305-5587

brd9005@nyp.org

New York, NY – July 15, 2010 – NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, one of the country's largest and most comprehensive academic medical centers, is ranked #6 in the nation and #1 among ranked hospitals in the New York area, according to U.S. News Media Group's 2010-11 Best Hospitals. This marks the 10th consecutive year that NewYork-Presbyterian has been listed on U.S. News' prestigious "Honor Roll."

]]> Best Hospitals 2010-11 ranks 152 medical centers nationwide in 16 specialties. The Honor Roll highlights 14 of these medical centers that are ranked at or near the top in at least six specialties based on reputation, death rates, procedure volume and the balance of nurses and patients.

NewYork-Presbyterian ranked in the following specialties: Cancer; Diabetes & Endocrinology; Ear, Nose & Throat; Gastroenterology; Geriatrics; Gynecology; Heart & Heart Surgery; Kidney Disorders; Neurology & Neurosurgery; Ophthalmology; Orthopedics; Pulmonology; Psychiatry; Rheumatology; and Urology.

Dr. Herbert Pardes, president and CEO of NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, lists the top six reasons he believes that NewYork-Presbyterian is one of the nation's top six hospitals:

Top Six Reasons We're in the Top Six

1. We put patients first. From our world-class clinicians and cutting-edge treatment options to our culture of empathy and emphasis on quality and safety, NewYork-Presbyterian is committed to putting patients and their families first.

2. Our physicians are re-inventing medical practice. As the nation's only hospital affiliated with two leading Ivy League medical schools, NewYork-Presbyterian performed the world's first pediatric multivisceral surgery involving the removal and partial reimplantation of six abdominal organs. We also developed a breakthrough treatment that delivers chemotherapy directly into a malignant brain tumor.

3. We have some of the world's most advanced facilities and technologies. In 2010, NewYork-Presbyterian opened the Ronald O. Perelman Heart Institute and the Vivian and Seymour Milstein Family Heart Center, with advanced operating rooms that allow clinicians to perform "hybrid" heart procedures combining surgery and interventional cardiology. We are the nation's first hospital to use the state-of-the-art Artis Zeego imaging system for advancing treatments for cardiovascular, neurologic and gastrointestinal conditions.

4. Our diverse team of specialists work together to provide world-class care. From clinicians, including nurse-Ph.D.s, Pharm.D.s and social workers, to translation and patient services professionals, NewYork-Presbyterian's unique team is committed to our patients and their families.
5. Patient safety and quality of care are foremost in our minds. The Hospital is recognized for its pioneering initiatives, including its award-winning Patient Safety Fridays program to ensure the highest quality and safety for the patient.

6. Financial stability provides a vision for the future. In the challenging and changing world of health care, NewYork-Presbyterian has a strong financial foundation that allows us to invest in new ways to serve patients and families.

"We are very pleased to again be counted among the outstanding institutions on the U.S. News Media Group's 2010-11 Best Hospitals ‘Honor Roll.' With expertise across the full spectrum of medical specialties, our health care professionals are dedicated to providing high-quality, effective and empathetic care to patients and their families," says Dr. Herbert Pardes, president and CEO of NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital. "Through our affiliation with two of the nation's leading Ivy League medical schools -- Weill Cornell Medical College and Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons -- we are continually developing cutting-edge medical technologies and potentially life-saving therapies."

Dr. Steven J. Corwin, executive vice president and COO, adds, "This distinction is a tribute to the continued excellence in the care and service we deliver to our patients every single day. We applaud and thank our amazing staff for their commitment to teamwork, and to putting patients and families first."

U.S. News Media Group's 2010-11 Best Hospitals is available online at www.usnews.com/besthospitals and featured in the August print issue of U.S.News & World Report, available on newsstands July 27.

National Consumer Assessment Study Shows More Patients Would Recommend Valley than Any Other General Acute Care Hospital in New Jersey

2010-07-15T20:04:28Z

Contact:

Maureen Curran Kleinman

Marketing and Communications

(201) 291-6310

mcurran@valleyhealth.com

Ridgewood, NJ – July 15, 2010 – More people would recommend The Valley Hospital to their friends and family than any other general acute care hospital in New Jersey, according to the latest government-released Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) figures. Valley has consistently held the top spot over the last two years.

The figures, released in July, show that 82 percent of Valley patients said they “would definitely recommend the hospital.” By comparison, statewide, only 64 percent of New Jersey patients would recommend their hospital to others. The survey also indicated that 75 percent of Valley patients ranked their overall satisfaction with the hospital as a nine or a 10 on a 10-point scale. Statewide, only 60 percent of patients in New Jersey rated their overall hospital satisfaction that favorably.

Notably, Valley ranked highest among hospitals in Bergen and Passaic counties for seven of 10 measures of patient satisfaction: communication with nurses, responsiveness of the hospital staff, pain management, cleanliness of the hospital environment, how quiet the hospital is at night, overall satisfaction with the hospital, and willingness to recommend the hospital.

“I am delighted that our patients consistently give us such high marks, which are a reflection of the skill, dedication and expertise of our staff and physicians,” said Audrey Meyers, Valley’s President and CEO.