NEWS FROM ENGLEWOOD HOSPITAL
AND MEDICAL CENTER FOUNDATION
conn ctions
SUMMER 2016
The Best Deserve the Best
The Sit Down with Mark Shapiro, MD • A Legacy of Kindness • Faces of Philanthropy
SUMMER 2016 • VOLUME 6.
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THE COVER
The region’s top orthopedic and neurosurgeons and their teams are doing their best work on behalf of patients, thanks to the generosity of Englewood Hospital and Medical Center Foundation donors.
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12. F E AT U R E S
4. The Best Deserve the Best
Look inside “Cluster Four,” the latest in a long line of state-of-the- art enhancements made possible by Transforming the Future: Our Campaign for Englewood Hospital and Medical Center.
8. The Sit Down: Mark Shapiro, MD
The Chief of Radiology — and one of this year’s honorees at the Foundation Gala — talks about his role as Vice Chair of the Capital Campaign and its impact on patient care.
10. A Legacy of Kindness More than 600 volunteers make lasting contributions by devoting 60,000 hours to the Medical Center each year.
12. Know the Pros Behind the scenes with the medical professionals and administrators who advance quality care at EHMC.
14. Faces of Philanthropy
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16. Ask the Foundation
When giving runs in the family, lives and communities are transformed.
CONNECTIONS – SUMMER 2016 EDITORIAL STAFF Debra Albanese Executive Vice President 201.894.3497 debra.albanese@ehmchealth.org
Members of our community practice their passion of giving back by supporting the Foundation.
Todd Brooks Executive Director 201.894.3004 todd.brooks@ehmchealth.org
Sandra Sgambati Manager, Donor Relations and Communications 201.894.3386 sandra.sgambati@ehmchealth.org
ENGLEWOOD HOSPITAL AND MEDICAL CENTER FOUNDATION
Englewood Hospital and Medical Center has delivered the highest quality healthcare to the community for 125 years. Established in 1995 as a separate 501 (c) (3) taxexempt organization, the Foundation raises private funds to further the Medical Center’s vision to become the regional leader in providing state-of-the-art compassionate care in a humanistic environment to the community it serves.
LETTER
from the Chairman significant modernization program in EHMC’s history. Thanks to the generosity of many, Transforming the Future has already raised more than half of its $50 million goal in record time. That success speaks to the tremendous loyalty of donors to EHMC. We saw their dedication in action at our recent Foundation Gala, Calling All Angels, a true show of strength and support for the outstanding work of our Medical Center.
e are witnessing an extraordinary era that is reshaping the future of healthcare in northern New Jersey and beyond. Just one year ago, we held the public launch of Transforming the Future: Our Campaign for Englewood Hospital and Medical Center and already it is elevating the quality of care that is vital to our community. This issue’s cover story, “The Best Deserve the Best,” highlights a significant achievement: five new stateof-the-art operating suites dedicated to orthopedics and neurosurgery funded through the Capital Campaign. Our modern facility provides EHMC’s team of top physicians with cutting-edge technologies in an innovative space to perform life-saving surgeries, including brain and spinal procedures and fulljoint replacements. This latest enhancement comes on the heels of the Medical Center’s new Family Birth Place and the Cancer Treatment and Wellness Center. We are well on our way to achieving our collective vision of funding the most
For those of you who have now partnered with us, thank you. Patients and their families value the impressive advances you have made possible. For those of you who have yet to help so far, I invite you to start learning more about Englewood Hospital and Medical Center by reading this edition of Connections and seeing the impact that donating has on our ability to deliver the finest healthcare. Please know that we still have work to do and investments to be made. Our commitment is that your gifts will impact lives for decades to come. Transforming the Future has solidified our commitment to excellence and world-class healthcare for the increasing number of communities that we serve. When it comes to improving and saving lives, nothing less will do. With all best wishes,
Jay C. Nadel Chairman, Board of Trustees Englewood Hospital and Medical Center Foundation
SUMMER 2016
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THE NEWS
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HAPPENINGS 1
Community Chest Opens for EHMC
EHMC Foundation is proud to announce that it was the recent recipient of a grant from The Community Chest of Englewood. This grant will allow our Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Division to procure ballistic protective equipment so they can safely treat, stabilize and evacuate victims of active shooter/mass casualty incidents.
Left to right: Debra Albanese, Executive Vice President, EHMC Foundation; event organizers Ronald Rollieson and Joanne English-Rollieson; Christine Weiselberg, Administrative Director, Breast Care Center; and Warren Geller, President and CEO, EHMC.
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Left to right: Shelly Wimpfheimer, Executive Director, The Community Chest (center) with Denise Armzoomanian, RN, MSN, CEN, MICN, Assistant Director, Emergency Medical Services, EHMC and Debra Albanese, Executive Vice President, EHMC Foundation.
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Spring Bling Takes a Joyful Journey
The 2016 Spring Bling Think Pink fundraiser set out on a ‘Joyful Journey’ earlier this year, with participants gathering on the sandy shores of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, for a weekend of fun and reflection. The event raised funds to benefit The Leslie Simon Breast Care and Cytodiagnosis Center.
Bergen Catholic Scores for EHMC
Emerson resident Doreen Dittfield won her hardfought battle against breast cancer with help from the team at The Leslie Simon Breast Care and Cytodiagnosis Center. In recognition of the expert care received, she rallied her own home team — Bergen Catholic High School — and launched a fundraiser in 2013 to benefit the Medical Center with help from her friend and fellow football mom, Marybeth Brace. 2016 marks the third consecutive year of giving by the Bergen Catholic High School football team. Proceeds are raised through a ‘Cancer Awareness’ game hosted by the team during the school’s football season. Left to right (in front): Marybeth Brace; Christine Weiselberg, Administrative Director, Breast Care Center; Cathy Verhulst, Patient Navigation Manager; Doreen Dittfield; and Sandra Sgambati, EHMC Foundation. 2
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Left to right: Richard Parsons, Chairman of the Board, The Jazz Foundation of America; Thomas Volpe, Trustee, EHMC and Englewood Health System Boards; Jay Nadel, Chairman of the Board, EHMC Foundation; Frank Forte, MD; Wendy Oxenhorn, Executive Director, The Jazz Foundation of America; and Warren Geller, President and CEO, EHMC.
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Jennifer Ashton, MD, headlines Breakfast Club
More than 180 guests joined the EHMC Foundation for The Breakfast Club on May 13 at Alpine Country Club. The event provides participants with an opportunity to connect with others to learn more about the Medical Center. Leading the spring gathering’s conversation as featured speaker was Jennifer Ashton, MD, Chief Women’s Health Correspondent for ABC’s Good Morning America and co-host of the nationally syndicated show, The Doctors. The generosity of supporters will have a profound impact, with funds underwriting nutritional counseling services for cancer patients.
Gift to Capital Campaign in Recognition of Francis Forte, MD
The vibrant notes of music that fill the Medical Center’s main lobby are a reminder of the late jazz great Dizzy Gillespie and his legacy of caring — brought to life by Francis Forte, MD, and nearly 100 other EHMC physicians who have donated their time and expertise to care for uninsured jazz musicians through the Dizzy Gillespie Memorial Fund. In recognition of Dr. Forte’s ongoing commitment and support, The Jazz Foundation of America recently made a gift to benefit Transforming the Future: Our Campaign for Englewood Hospital and Medical Center. A formal dedication of ‘Frank’s Corner’ was held on March 17, with more than 70 guests in attendance to celebrate the generosity of The Jazz Foundation of America and Dr. Forte.
Speaker Jennifer Ashton, MD, (center, in orange) with Breakfast Club guests.
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Heel the Soul
Thanks to the generous support of friends and sponsors, the second annual Heel the Soul event was an incredible success! More than 130 guests joined the EHMC Foundation at Neiman Marcus in Paramus on April 7 for an evening of fashion and fun. Funds will benefit Heel the Soul, a resource and support program for women battling serious illness at the Medical Center.
Heel the Soul Committee.
SUMMER 2016
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COVER
story
The Best Deserve the Best
Over the last decade, the region’s top orthopedic surgeons and neurosurgeons established centers of excellence for full-joint replacement and spine surgery at EHMC. Now,a capital enhancement made possible by Transforming the Future is equipping the best surgeons with state-of-the-art operating rooms to deliver the best possible outcomes to patients and the community. At the age of 90, Dot Romaine enjoys a mobile, active lifestyle because in recent years she decided to have full-joint knee and hip replacements at EHMC. “As far as I am concerned, it has been a total success,” says Ms. Romaine, who volunteers twice a week at the Medical Center and is a member of EHMC Foundation’s Legacy Society. 4
Ms. Romaine is hardly alone. Over the next 15 years, the demand for full-joint replacements are on track to increase by more than 700% in the United States, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. As aging seniors, Baby Boomers and others want to maintain or improve their quality of life, the Medical Center is meeting northern New Jersey’s growing demand
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for orthopedic surgery and neurosurgery thanks to Foundation donors. Through Transforming the Future: Our Campaign for Englewood Hospital and Medical Center, EHMC unveiled “Cluster Four” in April, a 12,000-square-foot suite of five operating rooms dedicated to full-joint replacements, spine and brain surgeries. The latest enhancement to the EHMC campus is part of its
“Transforming the Future is providing a world class facility so physicians can do their best work on behalf of the communities we serve.”
— President and CEO Warren Geller
Pictured: Marc Arginteanu, MD (left) and Asit Shah, MD (right) SUMMER 2016
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COVER
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modernization program that created the new Cancer Treatment and Wellness Center and expanded the Family Birth Place. “We are blessed to have some of the finest orthopedic surgeons and neurosurgeons who are pioneers in their respective fields of medicine. Patients seek them out,” says President and CEO Warren Geller. “With this new operating suite, Transforming the Future is providing a world class facility so physicians can do their best work on behalf of the communities we serve.”
Expanding the Footprint “Cluster Four” is designed with patients and surgical teams in mind. Each operating room is equipped with state-of-the-art imaging tools and digital technology and provides 600 square feet of space, twice the size of ORs previously used for neuro and ortho cases. Neurosurgery teams now have ample space to accommodate x-ray machines, image guidance systems and computers used in lifesaving craniotomies to remedy trauma or remove a tumor, as well as herniated discs and other common procedures. Full-joint replacements also require a large amount of space for digital technology and equipment for instantaneous x-rays and realtime imaging. With increased space and better work flow, “Not only are the surgeries going well,” says Chief of Neurosurgery
and EHMC Foundation Trustee Marc Arginteanu, MD, “they are going more smoothly and more quickly than anticipated.” These efficiencies can lead to improved recovery, healing and a better patient experience. “Surgery on the brain “These new or spine ORs represent are among another step in the most frightening the evolution surgeries for and continuing patients,” improvement explains Dr. of this Medical Arginteanu. “Cluster Four” Center.” operating — Chief of Neurosurgery rooms are Marc Arginteanu, MD uniquely outfitted to draw natural sunlight through windows, which can help create a more serene environment for medical teams and patients. “When they experience this facility that is new, modern and beautiful, they are much calmer. It gives them a sense of peace and confidence.” Dr. Arginteanu, a clinical associate professor of neurosurgery at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital, notes that access to these new operating rooms is key. “We are providing the highest standard of care here, closer to home, near their families, and that can make a difference for patients undergoing complex surgical procedures.”
Exponential Growth 2006 100 joint replacements per year 6
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Eye in the Sky The impact of the new operating suite extends beyond the Medical Center and the community it serves. Audio and video capabilities in “Cluster Four” provide opportunities for fellows and surgeons throughout the world to observe and learn about innovative techniques at EHMC. “The Englewood name is becoming very significant in the joint replacement community overseas,” says Chief of Orthopedic Surgery Asit Shah, MD, PhD, who has taught procedures to clinical professionals in Europe, Asia and the Middle East. “It is like having an eye in the sky. We can broadcast live surgery anywhere in the world.” Through Transforming the Future, EHMC’s Orthopedic and Neurosurgery Departments now have a facility to match the exceptional standard of care that is the hallmark of the Medical Center. EHMC holds a five-star rating from Healthgrades in hip fractures treatment and spinal fusion and was recognized with America’s 100 Best Hospitals for Spine Surgery Award™ in 2015 and 2016 for superior outcomes in back and neck surgeries and in spinal fusion procedures. Healthgrades also awarded EHMC the Orthopedic Surgery Excellence Award™ in 2015 for the aforementioned procedures as well as hip fracture treatment, hip replacement and total knee replacement. Doctors say it is gratifying to care for a growing number of local patients,
500+ full joint replacement 2016 and spine surgeries each year
Pioneering FullKnee Replacement Traditional metal knee
helping them to live more satisfying and productive lives. “We prefer to work here and bring all of this technology to our community,” says Dr. Shah. “These new ORs show just how committed this Medical Center is to its community.”
Campaign of Unstoppable Momentum Donors recognize the enormous benefits that “Cluster Four” brings to EHMC, northern New Jersey and the surrounding areas. “It is a privilege to be able to contribute to this,” says Ms. Romaine, who was inspired to give in recognition of excellent patient care delivered by Dr. Shah. Her generous Campaign gift named one of the operating suites. “The doctors have always been there for me,” she explains. “I have been so well cared for. I think I am very fortunate.” Dr. Shah believes it is his good fortune to know Ms. Romaine. “She is awesome,” he says. “There are a few people who are very motivational in your life. She inspires me to be good to every patient.” The mutual support and respect Ms. Romaine and Dr. Shah enjoy
underscores why Transforming the Future raised more than half of its $50 million goal since the public launch of the Campaign in 2015. The shared vision of physicians, administrators, employees, benefactors and volunteers to be the region’s center of cutting edge, humanistic care galvanized a Campaign of unstoppable momentum for EHMC. “These new ORs represent another step in the evolution and continuing improvement of this Medical Center,” says Dr. Arginteanu. Once facilities and services are enhanced, EHMC is better positioned to retain and draw top doctors, who in turn, refer more patients. Increasing numbers of grateful patients inspire more giving, which sparks even more investments and improvements. As a patient, donor and volunteer, Ms. Romaine has witnessed EHMC’s transformation and the pride that instills in people whose lives have been touched by the Medical Center. “Everything is now state-of-the-art,” she states. “EHMC is a great asset to the community.”
Englewood Hospital and Medical Center is not only leading the way in full-joint knee replacements, it is transforming care for millions of patients around the world. The groundbreaking Freedom Knee® was developed at the Medical Center by Chief of Orthopedic Surgery Asit Shah, MD, PhD. The bone conserving implant designed for long-term durability has been on the market since 2009. Now, another breakthrough in fulljoint knee replacement is imminent. Clinical trials will soon be conducted on the first metal-free knee implant, a product that directly resulted from research Dr. Shah conducted at EHMC. The Medical Center has been a leader in joint replacement research because, “We are nimble and we get the job done,” says Dr. Shah. The innovator also credits the leadership of the Board of Trustees and EHMC Foundation donors. “They have placed their trust in us and we are not taking that for granted,” he says. “We are using it to develop the foundation of knee replacements in this country.”
Most common conditions for spine surgery
1. Herniated Disk 2. Stenosis due to the growth of bone spurs, tumors or spinal injury. SUMMER 2016
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THE SIT
with Mark Shapiro, MD The Chief of Radiology sat down to discuss his other role at EHMC, Vice Chair of Transforming the Future: Our Campaign for Englewood Hospital and Medical Center. Fast Facts: 1. Where did you grow up? Howard Beach, Queens. 2. Sports: Mets or Yankees? Mets. I am a big sports fan. Basketball: Knicks. Football: Jets. 3. When you are not working? I exercise or run. Eight years ago, I decided while on the treadmill watching the New York City Marathon on TV, that I wanted to run the marathon. Ever since then I have run every NYC Marathon.
C: You stepped up to be Vice Chair of Transforming the Future: Our Campaign for Englewood Hospital and Medical Center. Can you tell us your reasons for taking on this role? M: I think it is very important for physicians to contribute to the success of this institution. I think that if the physicians show the community that they are standing by the institution and want to see the Medical Center succeed, it makes a big statement. This is a very competitive area and patients have a large choice. We want to show that we are here for the community and that we are providing the best medical care. To do that requires a lot of financial resources. An MRI machine, for example is $2 million, and recently we were lucky enough to purchase a state-of-the art MRI. The most successful institutions are those that the community stands by and contributes to within their means. C: How receptive have other physicians been to your involvement with the Campaign? M: Physicians like to contribute. They know that the Medical Center and the medical staff all want to be 8
ENGLEWOOD HOSPITAL AND MEDICAL CENTER FOUNDATION
successful. We want to have a great institution. The physicians I have approached and spoken to have been very active and very receptive. C: You seem to be an incredibly passionate advocate for philanthropy. M: I am an advocate. This was my first, and has been, my only job. I have been at EHMC for a long time, since 1994. The practice of a radiologist is based in the Medical Center, so my success is predicated upon the success of the institution. We really are true partners and because of that, I have a very close relationship with the administration and we work together on different initiatives.
C: Looking at the progression of the Campaign, is there any particular aspect you feel particularly proud of? M: One is the overall success to date. The goal is to raise $50 million and most of that was started with the community. It is only recently that we are trying to get all of the physicians involved because it shows that everyone is participating. I have been happy that the physicians we have approached so far have been receptive and have shown a willingness to contribute to the success of this institution. C: From your perspective, why is it important for residents and businesses to support their community hospital? M: A hospital is a very important part of a community on many different levels. The obvious is that we are here to provide healthcare for the community. Some emergencies are life threatening and you want to be in the best place. Just knowing that there is a wonderful resource right down the block in your backyard is wonderful. We also promote health and a healthy way of living through many different programs. One program we started was the lung cancer screening program. It is relatively new, and we utilize CAT scan to screen long-term smokers to help in the early detection of lung cancer. And that’s just one of many outreach programs that benefit the community. C: You have seen some dramatic transformations in medicine and at EHMC in the last decade. Where do you see the Medical Center headed? M: I see the Medical Center continuing to grow. One of the big initiatives recently is bringing in sub-specialized physicians in areas where there is a need. That is being tied into our cancer program now, and that is what a lot of our fundraising is going toward. The goal is to continue to develop areas of expertise and to be the leaders in cancer care, cardiac and all the other aspects of medicine that we practice, to continue to be there for the
community and to take care of larger and larger populations. This growth will contribute to the success of the Medical Center. C: When did you first know you wanted to be a physician? M: I grew up with very modest means. My parents are not college graduates, and they emphasized education. In looking at the medical field and what physicians do for people in the most trying times, it was something I was very interested in doing. I started volunteering at local hospitals when I was 14 or 15 transporting patients and speaking with them. I saw how appreciative they were of everyone involved. I wanted to help and thought this would be a very noble career. C: You were honored at the EHMC Foundation 2016 Gala. What did that mean to you? M: It was a very big honor for me, but more importantly, our entire group. We have 15 radiologists who are involved in all facets of medicine within the institution. It is really a team effort. The physicians chosen over the past five years are people who have been in the institution a long time and are very highly regarded. Following in the footsteps of those previous physicians is an honor. To see how my peers feel about me is very moving. C: You will run your eighth consecutive New York City Marathon in November. What is your favorite part of the course? M: The last three miles coming back into Central Park. My other favorite part about this marathon is the crowds. The way this city gets behind this race is just unbelievable. It is just a great feeling the way people want to get behind you and see you succeed. My wife writes my name on the front and back of my jersey, so people see your name and call out your name like you are their best friend. It helps you finish and it makes the event, which is a hard event, just so enjoyable. It’s a great experience.
SUMMER 2016
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FEATURE
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A Legacy of Kindness When Englewood Hospital and Medical Center was founded more than a century ago, kind volunteers assisted the doctors and nurses in tending to patients. Their legacy lives on today in the more than 600 volunteers who devote 60,000 hours annually to EHMC.
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oday’s volunteers represent the community EHMC serves. While their duties have evolved over the decades, they share one thing with the Medical Center’s founding volunteer corp—a deep devotion to helping others. “They are a wonderful group of people,” says Carol Hoth, Director of Volunteer Services. “I do not know what we would do without our volunteers. They are truly priceless.” Duties vary widely, but more than 75% of EHMC volunteers request to work 10
directly with patients. First, however, they undergo extensive training in the Medical Center’s policies, procedures and departmental operations. “We try to place people where they are best suited,” explains Mrs. Hoth. There is no question that longtime volunteer Ruth Aach is well-suited to her assignment. Soft-spoken and compassionate, Mrs. Aach is the calm at the center of the storm for EHMC patients facing trying circumstances. She spends two days a week at the Medical Center, Mondays at the operating suites in The Russell and Angelica Berrie Center for Humanistic
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Care and Fridays in the Emergency Care Center. Her job: to reduce stress for patients and their families. “I think many of the patients are under pressure,” says Mrs. Aach, an Englewood resident and Medical Center volunteer since 1966. “It is a hard time for them, especially where I work. They just need someone to listen to them. That is why I choose to do what I do.” Mrs. Aach’s understanding is the hallmark of a great volunteer, according to Mrs. Hoth. “Good volunteers put our patients first, just as all of us do here.” The warmth shown by volunteers
sometimes spurs others to consider donating their time. That is the case with Denise Simson, whose mother, Thea Guetta, was hospitalized at EHMC with a rare kidney condition two years ago. When her father, who has difficulty walking, visited his wife, EHMC’s Courtesy Service would meet him in the lobby with a wheelchair to transport him to Mrs. Guetta’s room. “It is a wonderful service,” Mrs. Simson explains. “It made visiting my mother so much easier.” Mrs. Guetta, a former volunteer in The Drapkin Family Cafe, passed away in September 2014. Last fall, Mrs. Simson decided to give back to the Medical Center that had cared for her mother so well. Now, as a volunteer with Courtesy Services, she handles anything that needs to be done, from transporting discharged patients to delivering specimens to the lab. “I love it,” the Tenafly resident says. “I am really there to give back, but at the same time it is very gratifying for me. It is something they need, and something I can help with.”
are very compassionate individuals. Their interpersonal and communication skills are wonderful.” Retiree Norbert Strauss has logged 29,200 volunteer hours at EHMC across more than two decades. Mr. Strauss left the full-time workforce in 1985, consulting for 10 years before departing the job market altogether to focus on volunteer work. “I decided that I did not need to make any more money,” says Mr. Strauss, who emigrated from Germany in 1941. “Instead, I wanted to pay back the American society that gave me a home.” A Teaneck resident, Mr. Strauss knew the mental skills he had cultivated as a Vice President with one of the world’s largest metal merchants could best be used in an administrative office. He spent his first 20 volunteer years at EHMC working in Human Resources. Now, Mr. Strauss can be found in the Finance Office assisting the Accounts
Payable staff. He also handles data entry for the Center for Nursing Practice. “I take my job very seriously,” says Mr. Strauss, who has also been a generous donor to the Medical Center since 1984. Mr. Strauss and Mrs. Aach emphasize that the hours they put in at EHMC enrich their lives, as well. “I always took time out to help because that is just part of my outlook on life,” Mrs. Aach says. “Now, I am happy to have this as an activity. It gets me out of the house to meet people.” Widowed in 2012, Mr. Strauss has cut back on the time he spends at EHMC, but not because of his age. He was remarried recently and wants to spend more time with his new wife. However, he has no plans to quit the work he loves. “I am not going to slow down. I am going to keep working until they have to carry me out. As long as I can physically work as a volunteer, I am going to.”
Both Mrs. Aach and Mrs. Simson initially decided to volunteer after leaving the workforce — Mrs. Aach as a registered nurse and Mrs. Simson on Wall Street — to raise their children. In addition to stay-at-home parents, the Medical Center has found a rich pool of volunteer talent in teenagers who are exploring medical careers. These Junior Volunteers attend a variety of schools in the area and fulfill service hour requirements while gaining entry level career skills under the direction of EHMC professionals. Active retirees also provide a stable volunteer base for the Medical Center, according to Mrs. Hoth. “Our seniors SUMMER 2016
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KNOW THE
PROS Providing Life Saving Support Katherine Cousineau, BA, CCP is ready to go at a moment’s notice. As Chief Perfusionist for Englewood Hospital and Medical Center, Ms. Cousineau springs into action when patients need emergency open heart surgery. Perfusionists operate the cardiopulmonary bypass pump (the heart-lung machine) that circulates the blood and keeps oxygen levels constant when the heart is stopped during cardiac surgery.
Putting His Patients at Ease EHMC Physician of the Year Dwarkanath Shembde, MD Dwarkanath Shembde, MD, understands the nervousness patients feel when they need medical tests. So, the radiologist takes his time to allay their fears, explaining the procedure step-bystep and answering all of their questions. “If I am calm, they are comforted. I take the time to explain procedures as clearly as I can. I find it makes them very much at ease.” His concern for patients led Dr. Shembde’s medical staff colleagues to vote him this year’s EHMC Physician of the Year. The award recognizes qualities such as respect, compassion, service and teamwork. “I was pleasantly surprised and humbled. It was unexpected,” the board-certified physician says of the honor. “The Radiology staff and Medical Center staff are partners in this recognition. Their teamwork and assistance has been a relevant component of my work at EHMC.” A graduate of the University of Bombay in India, he joined the EHMC medical 12
staff in 2006. Patients who visit EHMC for frequent tests and procedures find comfort in Dr. Shembde’s familiar, skilled presence, particularly when he is evaluating the response of cancer patients to chemotherapy or radiation. “Once I have done a procedure, they know me and ask for me. This helps build a strong trust with patients.” Dr. Shembde is proud of the patient-centered focus adopted by the Radiology Department staff, under the direction of its Chief, Mark Shapiro, MD. Patients can discuss test results directly with radiologists, and at The Leslie Simon Breast Care and Cytodiagnosis Center they can now get sameday mammogram results. “We believe in having open communication with patients, the referring physicians and the various departments in the Medical Center. This helps us to provide a higher level of care, improve the patients’ experience, and mainly, to provide a greater awareness of the role that radiology plays in their care.”
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“This really is a lifestyle,” explains Ms. Cousineau. “You need to be ready to go, always within 30 minutes of the Medical Center.” While each call sparks an initial adrenalin rush, Ms. Cousineau maintains total focus during surgery to monitor all important patient systems, adjusting the parameters of the heart-lung machine accordingly. A graduate of Cornell University with an advanced degree from The State University of New York, Health Science Center at Syracuse, Ms. Cousineau joined the staff in 2000 when EHMC was granted its Certificate of Need to perform open heart surgeries. Since then, EHMC perfusionists have participated in more than 4,057 cases. Most patients may not realize that a perfusionist is even in the room during surgery. According to Ms. Cousineau.“It is very rewarding, otherwise I would not work the hours I do.”
Navigating the Complex Details of Patient Care Hospitalist Peter Shin, MD, directs round-the-clock care Ask Peter Shin, MD, how many people he knows at EHMC, and the answer will most likely be, “Everyone.” As Director of the Hospital Medicine Program, Dr. Shin and his team provide round-the-clock care to hospitalized patients. “We are the internal medicine doctors patients see when they are in the Medical Center. Hospitalists are here 24/7, so if something happens we are here in person to respond immediately to the situation.” As a hospitalist, Dr. Shin is the point-person who coordinates all aspects of patient care. Hospitalists remain in constant contact with primary care physicians and consult with specialists, as needed. They also help to develop and streamline systems. “Hospitalists can navigate complicated systems because that is what we do well,” Dr. Shin notes. “Communication and coordination of care are really our strong points. I know pretty much everyone here, so I can pick up the phone and talk to them. I have everyone’s cell numbers.”
Patients are pleased with the care they receive from EHMC’s hospitalists. That is great news for Dr. Shin and his colleagues, who take special pride in serving patients well. “We have a stake in the Medical Center doing well,” Dr. Shin explains. A graduate of the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, Dr. Shin joined the EHMC medical staff immediately after completing his residency at New York PresbyterianColumbia in 2008. He left for family reasons, but jumped at the chance to return last year as Director of the department. Fluent in Korean, he plays an important role in treating the area’s large Korean population. “I feel like I can really care for people who may not be able to easily communicate their conditions because of language issues,” Dr. Shin says. “I feel like EHMC really is a community. It has a collegial atmosphere.”
Data is power... to tech guru Dimitri Cruz Dimitri Cruz first recognized the power of technology as a kid who loved video games and sci-fi. In fact, when asked what sparked his interest in technology careers, he quips, “Space Invaders and Star Trek.” Those childhood interests led Mr. Cruz to a 20-year career in IT, where he has served as a consultant in the healthcare industry and Chief Information Officer for two hospitals. He joined the EHMC staff as Vice President of Information Technology/Chief Information Officer in 2015. Mr. Cruz’s latest mission is his most challenging yet: a campus-wide upgrade to Epic, a new unified electronic health record system. Medical and financial information at EHMC is currently spread across more than 50 systems. Epic will transition this data into one cohesive record that will radically improve operations and, more importantly, the patient experience. The system will also be made available to EHMC’s MD Partners physician network, thus creating a seamless transition of care between the Medical Center and physician practices. “Epic is widely recognized as an industry leader, with approximately 50% of all US patients registered through its system,” says Mr. Cruz, a graduate of Vassar College who also holds a master’s degree from The New School. “IT can play a revolutionary role in patient care and I am excited to see its impact at EHMC.” During the 18-month transition to Epic, Mr. Cruz and his staff will train EHMC employees and ensure that the change proceeds as smoothly as possible. “From the doctor perspective, it is liberating,” notes Mr. Cruz, a married father of two. “From a patient perspective, it means not being asked the same question over and over. It is an example of the change and transformation that data can accomplish.” SUMMER 2016
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FACES OF PHILANTHROPY
THE ART OF PHILANTHROPY Mark and Beth Metzger Mark and Beth Metzger are avid art connoisseurs, but their greatest work of art may be the philanthropic support they provide to Bergen County community organizations. The Englewood couple has advanced the mission of numerous organizations, including the EHMC Foundation, with their time, expertise and leadership-level support. The Metzgers were the recipients of the Touchstone Award at the Calling All Angels Gala in June for their contributions to the Medical Center spanning nearly two decades. EHMC Foundation supporters and friends describe the dedicated couple as “true role models who inspire the community.” Englewood residents since 1984, the Metzgers raised three daughters in Bergen County. Mr. Metzger, who retired from the financial services sector in 2011, served as a Trustee on the EHMC Hospital Board for 14 years and was a member of the Englewood Health System Board for a decade. A former nursing professional, Mrs. Metzger serves on the Medical Center’s Bioethics Committee. While they have set a high standard for philanthropy, the Metzgers are very modest about the impact their generosity has made on their community. “The Medical Center, over the last several years, has made a lot of progress,” Mr. Metzger says. “It is nice to see something that we are involved with doing a good job and giving good service to our community.”
PAYING IT FORWARD John Stabile, MD If John Stabile, MD, could reboot his career, there is no question that he would choose medicine again. “Medicine is a wonderful profession,” says Dr. Stabile, a Trustee of the EHMC Hospital Board. “There are a lot of exciting developments going on in medicine in general. Treatments are better and less invasive and all of the processes are moving to patient-focused care.” The board-certified ophthalmologist, who practices with Tenafly Eye Associates, has witnessed firsthand EHMC’s strengthened commitment to excellence in patient care and physician support. In fact, that commitment has compelled Dr. Stabile and his wife, Barbara, to make a generous gift to Transforming the Future: Our Campaign for Englewood Hospital and Medical Center. Dr. Stabile points to concrete advancements — including a new Emergency Care Center, the introduction of state-of-the-art technologies and a complete transformation of quality measures — as solid reasons to pay it forward. “EHMC is really doing the most it can for people,” he explains. “The Medical Center needs and deserves the support the medical staff can give. They have done a lot to make the facility better for physicians, so it behooves the medical staff to support EHMC.”
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ENGLEWOOD HOSPITAL AND MEDICAL CENTER FOUNDATION
A FABULOUS FIT Gina and Emil Curko Gina and Emil Curko approach life with zest. This dynamic couple finds that philanthropy is the perfect fit to their careers centered on fashion and Ferraris. “I love to empower people!” says Mrs. Curko, owner of SeeSaw, an upscale boutique featuring luxe brands, as well as seesawboutique.com. Mrs. Curko has seen firsthand that fashion can build confidence and transform lives. While she is discrete about her clientele, the celebrity stylist reveals that she has dressed A-list stars. At EHMC, Mr. Curko, a manager with Ferrari North America, Inc., and his wife are channeling their commitment to helping and empowering others by generating community support for EHMC’s Graf Center for Integrative Medicine. Mrs. Curko is part of a committee that helps plan an annual benefit in support of the Center. The Graf Center offers access to holistic therapy and modalities including acupuncture, Reiki, massage and yoga. When the Center was proposed eight years ago, the Curkos recognized its important place in the healing process. At the time, medical experts were just beginning to realize the powerful role holistic approaches have in recovery. Today, the deeply spiritual couple are proud that EHMC was ahead of the curve with integrative medicine. “Healing is not just about medicine,” Mr. Curko explains. “The Center makes you realize that when you restore the body, you also have to restore the mind and soul.” Mrs. Curko adds, “I think life is always going to throw you a curveball. It is how you respond that matters. The best gift is seeing the way you can change someone’s life.”
A LIFELONG CONNECTION Bruce Harper Bruce Harper recalls visiting the Emergency Care Center at EHMC as a young child for stitches in his pinky. “It was a traumatic experience for me because I was so little,” chuckles Mr. Harper, a former running back and kick returner for the New York Jets and an EHMC Foundation Trustee. The Englewood native, who is married to EHMC nurse Nancy Harper, RN, assists the Foundation in coordinating special events. He has also spoken at the Medical Center to raise awareness of sports-related concussions. “I am so happy to be affiliated with this Medical Center,” Mr. Harper says. “They have the best doctors and treatment. It feels good to contribute to the well being of EHMC.” Mr. Harper is also the founder of Heroes and Cool Kids, a non-profit that provides life skills for youth through mentorship by professional athletes. His two volunteer activities converged recently when a medical issue brought him to EHMC via ambulance. One of the EMTs, an alumna of Heroes and Cool Kids, thanked him for the difference the program made in her life. “It brought a tear to my eye,” Mr. Harper says.
SUMMER 2016
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ASK THE
FOUNDATION
How much impact can one family’s commitment to giving make? Generational giving through Transforming the Future: Our Campaign for Englewood Hospital and Medical Center means a world of difference to our community and our patients.
I
t is long understood that parents are their children’s first teachers. That is certainly evident in philanthropy. When parents donate their time and money to worthy causes, their children—and often later generations—follow their lead. In fact, 71% of adult philanthropists had parents who were dedicated to giving, according to a recent survey on philanthropy by Indiana University.
discussing the wonderful advances the Medical Center has made, Robert and his mother made a family decision to match their foundation’s gift with individual gifts of their own. Today, they are loyal supporters of Transforming the Future: Our Campaign for Englewood Hospital and Medical Center.
reasonable distance, you do not have much of a community.”
The Demarest resident credits his parents with instilling in their children a commitment to philanthropy, which includes his sister, Vivian, taking over the helm as President of the family’s foundation. Mr. Holzer, along with It was a natural choice for a family that his wife and sister, have worked to values the care the Medical Center inspire a dedication to giving in the brings to our community. Robert and his next generation of Holzers, as well. At the Englewood Hospital and Medical wife, Viviana, delivered their daughter, Each year, the Holzers’ two children Center Foundation, generational Gabriela, at EHMC in 1993 and son, team up with his sister’s three children support from families provides a solid Jeffrey, two years later. While raising to choose a charity for the foundation foundation for our fundraising efforts. two children, it was inevitable that the to support. “My parents were always When the generations of one family family ended up in the Emergency Care charitable,” he says. “We learned from commit to a single cause, great things Center once or twice. them.” happen. “We are a part of this community and When families like the Holzers nurture A case in point is the Holzer family. EHMC is a vital resource,” explains a tradition of family giving, they set an Demarest residents Eva and the late Mr. Holzer, President of ChickMaster, example for others in the community, Erich Holzer instilled a commitment a worldwide poultry incubator firm. demonstrating the tremendous impact to giving in their children, Robert “If you do not have a Medical Center one family’s generational support can and Vivian, from an early age. When that gives excellent care within a really make. Here at EHMC, their legacy is the another son died tragically in an most precious gift you can give: hope. auto accident in 1968 at age 19, the Holzers set out to honor his memory through charitable acts and by To speak with the Foundation about your donation, establishing of The Richard H. Holzer please call me at 201.894.3497 or e-mail Memorial Foundation. debra.albanese@ehmchealth.org. You can also Through the years, the Holzers’ foundation has supported many worthwhile causes in Bergen County, including the EHMC Foundation. But that is just the beginning of the family’s legacy in philanthropy. After
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ENGLEWOOD HOSPITAL AND MEDICAL CENTER FOUNDATION
visit our website, englewoodhospitalfoundation.org, for more information. Debra Albanese, Executive Vice President, Englewood Hospital and Medical Center Foundation
GALA
HIGHLIGHTS
Saturday, June 18, 2016 EHMC Foundation’s 2016 Gala, Calling All Angels, raised in excess of $1.3 million thanks to the generosity of more than 700 friends and supporters. Funds will help provide the top quality, patientcentered care that has become the hallmark of the Medical Center. To all those who answered the call: you are our angels!
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