May 2017 Vol. 19 Issue 4
ECHO STORIES AND NEWS FROM THE HSS FAMILY
Education Day Highlights HSS Family Member Contributions to the Hospital
E
ducation is a crucial part of HSS and
HSS Recognized by Healthgrades ospital for Special
H
is critical to our success. It is important
Surgery was recently
that we are always learning to further our
recognized as a
purpose and mission. The HSS family is made up
recipient of the Healthgrades®
of many talented individuals, and we can learn a
Outstanding Patient Experience
great deal from one another. To help recognize and
Award™ for the third consecutive
celebrate this, the 19th annual Education Day took
year (2015-2017). HSS is among
place on March 17.
the top 5 percent of hospitals nationwide for patient
The theme of this year’s Education Day, which
experience, which is a remarkable feat, especially
was attended by nearly 2,000 individuals, was the
given the extraordinary changes that have occurred
Roadmap to 2020 and Transformation. The event
at the Hospital over the past year and a half.
highlighted the many ways members of the HSS family are contributing to our journey to ‘Better’
The Initiatives table featured information from the Employee Safety Committee.
Healthgrades, a quality ratings organization and the leading online resource for comprehensive
every day.
“This game showed that so many of the small steps
information about physicians and hospitals, is used
“Extraordinary things are happening all across
taking place across the Hospital have connections
by more than one million people each day.
the Hospital on a daily basis, throughout every
to many BIG IMPACTS,” said Pamela Katkin, PA-C,
“Third party ratings such as Healthgrades are having
single department,” said Scott DeNegre, PhD, Vice
MBA, Administrative Director, Physician Assistant
a greater impact on the healthcare decision-making
President, Operational Excellence, and Education
Department, and Education Day Committee
process for patients,” said Lou Shapiro, President
Day Committee Co-Chair. “Education Day gave the
Co-Chair. “This provided a great opportunity for
and CEO. “We are pleased to be recognized for the
HSS family a great opportunity to showcase the many
HSS family members to see how the work they
third consecutive year for providing outstanding care
ways we are all putting the Roadmap into action and
are doing every day is having great impacts on
and service to our patients.”
contributing to transformation across HSS.”
our goals as an organization.”
Healthgrades evaluated 3,489 hospitals that
Unlike previous Education Days, this year’s event
HSS family members at our regional locations
submitted at least 100 patient experience surveys
featured tables made up of interdisciplinary team
also celebrated Education Day with activities of
to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services
members throughout the organization. Each table
their own, including a version of the ‘small steps,
(CMS), covering admissions from April 2015 – March
corresponded to a section of the Roadmap, such
BIG IMPACT’ matching game. Those in attendance
2016 to identify hospital performance in this area.
as Better, Foundation or Value, and helped explain
at the regional locations and on the main campus
They evaluated performance by applying a scoring
to those who attended how HSS family members
were given a tote bag filled with snacks from the
methodology to 10 patient experience measures,
are contributing.
Belaire Café as a gift.
using data collected from a 32-question patient
Additionally, at each table, attendees played a
Thank you to the many members of the HSS family
experience survey of the hospital’s own patients.
version of the same game. Every table selected
who were involved in organizing Education Day.
The survey questions focused on patients’ perspec-
15 ‘small steps’ and five ‘BIG IMPACT’ examples.
A special thanks to Eden Kalman, Senior Director,
tives of their care in the hospital, and topics ranged
Each person who visited the table was presented
Food and Nutrition Services, and Julie Skalicky,
from cleanliness and noise levels in patient rooms to
with a small steps card and asked to match it to one
Executive Secretary, Administrative Offices,
factors such as pain management and responsiveness
of the five BIG IMPACTS at the table. Once a match
who served as behind-the-scenes coordinators,
to patients’ needs. The measures also included
was made, the individuals at the table discussed why
organizing everything from room decorations to
whether a patient would recommend the hospital
the particular BIG IMPACT was chosen.
tote bags to snacks and more!
to friends or family. “Patients are more informed than ever before about what to expect in their hospital experience,” said Todd Albert, MD, Surgeon-In-Chief and Medical Director. “We approach each patient interaction with the goal of meeting and exceeding their expectations. I am proud that HSS has been recognized for providing such a great experience.”
Inside Although Lou Shapiro, President and CEO, could not attend the event in person, he was there in spirit!
Attendees played a game where they were given the chance to match small steps to the BIG IMPACTS they are having at HSS.
2 4
Next Steps for MyHSS HSS at AAOS
Next Steps for MyHSS s part of the 2016 launch of Epic, Hospital
feedback from HSS family members and are working
platform that will be available as an eLearning.
for Special Surgery went live with MyHSS,
on implementing a plan to address questions,
This will ensure that office staff, physicians and
an online portal that allows patients to
A
comments and concerns.
other members of the HSS family are well-informed
access their health information securely from the
The first step is an upgrade to the portal on Sunday,
on the various pathways to activate a MyHSS
convenience of any computer or mobile device.
May 7, as part of the larger upgrade to the 2017
account and the many features and benefits of the
Enabling our patients with better technology and
version of Epic. Key enhancements to MyHSS include:
platform. A new Epic playground environment will
ways to communicate, and giving them more control of their care, is an important aspect of the relationship between HSS and our patients. Easily accessible healthcare information is critical to keeping patients involved and informed in their care. We currently have more than 55,000 patients active on MyHSS with a 38 percent activation rate. In fact, we are one of Epic’s top customers when it comes to activation rates – the average is 26 percent. Since the launch of MyHSS, the portal has proven to be beneficial to both our patients and the HSS family. Results from a patient happiness survey conducted from September 2016 – March 2017 revealed that nearly 90 percent of patients surveyed rated their MyHSS experience as “good” or “very good.” “Patients find that MyHSS gives them easy access to healthcare services online when it is convenient for them,” said Jessica Kovac, Senior Director,
• A new look and feel to the web platform and mobile app that will provide a more streamlined view and better usability for patients. • The ability for patients to select a preferred pharmacy as part of the Visit Pre-Check workflow. This is not only a patient satisfier, but will also save office staff and nurses time when the patient comes in for their appointment. • The ability to view all past and upcoming HSS
also be available for anyone who would like to log in and experience the platform firsthand from the patient perspective. Second, the team is collaborating with physicians across the Hospital on multiple projects to drive efficient use of the portal and harness that use to improve patient care, minimize wait times and help clinicians make faster and more efficient decisions about patient care. Finally, they are beginning to explore use of a tablet in waiting rooms so patients
admissions, appointments and pre-admissions
who have not already done so can complete the
on a single page. This information was previously
Visit Pre-Check workflow, including filling out
displayed in separate places, so having it all in one
questionnaires, while they wait.
place will be more convenient for patients. • The ability to opt in to receive pop-up alerts
“MyHSS is a key part of our overall digital health strategy,” said Rodney. “We want to do everything
on smart phones if there is new information
possible to make sure that our patients and our
in MyHSS, allowing for patient preference and
staff are happy with the platform. As we continue
a more personalized experience.
to evolve MyHSS through the Epic upgrade and
Service Lines, and MyHSS Operational Lead. “It gives
In addition to the upgrade, the MyHSS team is
current and future initiatives, our goal is for patients
patients the option to request appointments and
working on several initiatives to convert our high
and HSS family members to use the portal to the
prescription refills, send secure encrypted messages
activation rates into higher utilization rates. First,
fullest and take advantage of the many benefits it
directly to the healthcare team, review test results,
they are developing an enterprise wide education
has to offer.”
fill out pre-visit questionnaires and pay outstanding bills in the convenience of their own home.” Members of the HSS care team have also seen benefits. According to Rodney Plante, Senior Director, Information Technology, and MyHSS IT Lead, several office staff have commented that the implementation of MyHSS has reduced phone calls to offices, allowed for more streamlined communication between the patient and the office, and improved patient and family engagement in their own healthcare. Although our activation rate is high, the MyHSS team wants to ensure that patients are using the portal in the best way possible to drive efficiency and maximum benefit to physician offices. They have heard feedback from patients through the patient happiness survey and are currently reviewing and prioritizing to make improvements based on suggestions. Additionally, they have received
The May 7 upgrade will give MyHSS a more streamlined look and feel. Pictured above is the new log-in page for the portal.
Making Rounds News & Insights from Lou Shapiro, President and CEO
Access “Making Rounds” at www.hssmakingrounds.com to read the below posts and more. I look forward to your comments. – Lou Shapiro • Transformational Technology • Leadership Journey Milestone: 154th HSS Annual Meeting
The Compliance Helpline is a service for employees who wish to anonymously or confidentially report suspected violations of the Hospital for Special Surgery’s Code of Conduct, officially stated policies or relevant public laws and regulations. This includes concerns about patient safety. The Helpline does not replace other resources available to you, including supervisors, managers and Human Resources staff, but it is an alternative channel available to you 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It is operated on our behalf by National Helpline Services, Inc., an independent firm. The Compliance Helpline number is 888-651-6234.
• Educating Tomorrow’s Physician Leaders
All information will be kept confidential unless the law requires it to be shared with law enforcement authorities. Hospital for Special Surgery policy forbids any retribution or retaliation against an employee who reports a compliance issue in good faith.
• Spring
If you have any questions or concerns, contact the Corporate Compliance office directly at x2398.
• Being the Best
2
Compliance Helpline Reminder
Lou Shapiro Shares HSS Journey with Center for Higher Ambition Leadership
L
ou Shapiro, President and CEO, recently sat
in the US. The healthcare industry is constantly
down with Doug Wilson, PhD, Executive Fellow
changing, and HSS needs to not just keep up with
at the Center for Higher Ambition Leadership,
these changes, but to jump out in front of them and
Dr. Cornell Named Chair of Department of Orthopedic Surgery at Stamford Health
to discuss many aspects of HSS, including our
to lead the way.
history, culture and transformation. The Center
Another focus was HSS’ culture of excellence and
for Higher Ambition Leadership is a community of
innovation. Our culture makes us unique and special
global CEOs, executives and companies dedicated to
and contributes to our success. HSS is made up of
leading with a higher ambition.
Orthopedic Surgeon,
amazing individuals in every part of the organization,
was recently named
“I have been a part of the Center for a little over
and we all play a crucial role in achieving our goals.
Chair of the newly
two years now,” said Lou. “As a part of this organiza-
Visit https://youtu.be/prCZS17gPss to watch the
created Department
tion I am constantly inspired by others and have had
entire interview.
of Orthopedic Surgery
harles “Chip”
C
Cornell, MD,
Attending
the opportunity to learn from their successes and
at Stamford Health.
mistakes, and receive counsel as we continue along
As Department Chair,
our pathway.”
Dr. Cornell is responsible
This interview gave Lou the opportunity to share our
for the direction of all
journey with the Center so others can learn from the
orthopedic services, including subspecialty divisions
steps we are taking along our Roadmap to 2020 here
and HSS Orthopedics Provided by Stamford Health.
at HSS.
Last year we entered into a collaboration with
A focus of the interview was the theme of transfor-
Stamford Hospital to create HSS Orthopedics
mation, which is lasting change that contributes to
Provided by Stamford Hospital, the premier center
significant benefit – and to achieving our Roadmap
for specialty orthopedic care in New England. This
objectives. Transformation has been part of our DNA
new opportunity allows us to cultivate the knowledge
from the beginning, and we continue to transform today despite being the academic and clinical leader
Lou Shapiro and Dr. Doug Wilson discuss HSS as part of an interview for the Center for Higher Ambition Leadership.
that we have as a leader in musculoskeletal health and extend the HSS level of care to a community with a high demand. On Tuesday, March 7, Dr. Cornell successfully completed the first surgery under the collaboration, officially launching a new era of advanced orthopedic
Palliative Care Team Provides Support to Patients
care in Connecticut and New England. “It was an honor to be able to perform the first surgery under the collaboration,” said Dr. Cornell. “Our collaboration with Stamford Health provides
t HSS, we pride ourselves on addressing
patients with world-class care in their own back-
the needs of all of our patients. To further
yards, and I am excited for the opportunity to serve
provide the best possible patient care, we
as Chair of Department of Orthopedic Surgery at
A
have developed a Palliative Care Team consisting
Stamford Health.”
of doctors, nurses, chaplains, nurse practitioners,
Dr. Cornell served as Clinical Director of Orthopedics
social workers and dietitians who work together
for HSS beginning in 2006, and holds the Richard
toward the goal of supporting our patients before,
Laskin, MD, Chair in Orthopedic Surgery since 2011.
during and after surgery. Development of the team
He has been active in the Resident and Medical
occurred throughout 2016 and was implemented
School program throughout his career and recog-
in January 2017. According to the World Health Organization, palliative care is an approach that improves quality of life of patients and their families as they face problems associated with life threatening illness. This is done through the prevention and relief of suffering by
nized for his dedication to education, receiving the The Palliative Care Team includes (back row, l-r) Jennifer Spector, LSCW; Christine Peterson, MD; Barbara Wukovitz, RN, BSN; Deborah McInerney, MS, RD, CDN; Nancy Doldus, LSCW; Mary Kelly, MSN, RN-C, ONC, FNP-BC; (front row, l-r) Linda Russell, MD; Sister Margaret Oettinger; Sister Margaret Tuttle; and Raymond Pastore, MD.
Philip Wilson Teaching Award three times. His vast experience makes him a perfect candidate for the new Chair position. “We are proud to have someone of Dr. Cornell’s recognized leadership and surgical expertise join
early identification, impeccable assessment and
Stamford Health as we expand orthopedic services,”
treatment of pain and other physical, psychosocial
needs of the patient as they progress through the
and spiritual problems.
intricacies of their illness. The team also receives
Although many associate palliative care with hospice,
regulatory guidance from Daniella Stephen, Quality
it can actually be initiated at any stage of an illness,
Management Specialist.
whether or not the patient is undergoing treatment.
The Palliative Care Team sees all different types
and complements our vision of further developing
At HSS, the Palliative Care Team, which is led by
of patients, including those with end stage renal
leading specialty services in orthopedics.”
Christine Peterson, MD, Director of Inpatient
disease, COPD or HIV/AIDS, and those who are older
Pain Medicine Services, and Raymond David
than 85 with dementia, among others. If you believe
Pastore, MD, NewYork-Presbyterian, provides
your patient would be a good candidate to be seen
support to both the patient and their caregivers
by the Team, please ask their medical or surgical
by addressing the physical, spiritual and emotional
attending to submit a referral in Epic.
said Sharon Kiely, MD, Senior Vice President of Medical Affairs and Chief Medical Officer at Stamford Health. “This follows the announcement of our collaboration with Hospital for Special Surgery
3
HSS at AAOS 2017
T
he 2017 American Academy of Orthopedic
• Emily Dodwell, MD, published a study finding
carry out a wide range of activities. Collaborating
Surgeons (AAOS) Annual Meeting took place
that utilizing BMPs (bone morphogenetic proteins)
with his research colleague, Joseph (Trey) Crisco,
from March 14-18 in San Diego, CA. HSS’
did not improve revision rates for pediatric
PhD, Dr. Wolfe sought to gain a better understanding
spinal fusions.
of the underlying mechanisms of wrist movement
contributions to the meeting helped to demonstrate our position as the leader in musculoskeletal health.
HSS Experts Present Leading Research Our physicians and researchers presented several studies related to innovations and leading research,
• Beth Shubin Stein, MD, presented her patient study that found that MPFL (medial patellofemoral
treatments for arthritis and other wrist injuries.
ligament) reconstructions are a safe and effective
Dr. Crisco, with whom Dr. Wolfe shares the Kappa
treatment for patients with patellofemoral
Delta Award, is director of the Bioengineering
instability, even if they have trochlear dysplasia.
Laboratory in the Department of Orthopaedics at
giving HSS a very strong prominence in showcasing important research in today’s orthopedic field.
• Scott Rodeo, MD, presented research that found that more than half of college football
• Alexander McLawhorn, MD, MBA; Steven Haas, MD; Stephen Lyman, PhD; and Michael Cross, MD, published a study that a shortened seven question patient survey (KOOS JR.) is a valid tool to assess patient outcomes following revision total knee replacement. • Joshua Dines, MD, and David Altchek, MD,
with the goal of developing new and better
Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University and Rhode Island Hospital.
athletes had insufficient Vitamin D levels, which could leave them susceptible to muscle injuries. He also presented basic science study findings that tendon-derived endothelial cells produced chemical factors that stimulated intrinsic stem cells in the injured tendon thus increasing the strength of the tendon repair.
published a study that found that arm slot, arm speed and shoulder rotation have a significant
Exhibit Hall Booth Focuses on Academics
relationship with elbow varus torque in profes-
HSS sponsored a booth in the exhibit hall focused
sional baseball pitchers.
on promoting visibility of our academic assets. The
• Alexander Hughes, MD, investigated the impact
booth showcased HSS eAcademy, HSS Journal® and
of antidepressants on transfusion requirements
Grand Rounds from HSS – Management of Complex
in spinal surgery.
Cases, as well as our recently formed editorial
• Answorth Allen, MD, published a study that found
collaboration with Medscape.
Kurt Spindler, MD, Chair of the AAOS Research Development Committee; Scott Wolfe, MD; and Pamela Nix, Executive Director of the Kappa Delta Sorority, pose with Dr. Wolfe’s prestigious award.
“Receiving the Kappa Delta Award is an incredible honor, representing to us an endorsement of our
that most patients who have ACL reconstruction
decades of work together and the importance of
surgery are highly satisfied, able to return to playing
this work to patient care,” said Dr. Wolfe. “We are
sports and would have the procedure again.
honored and humbled that the American Academy
• Stephen Lyman, PhD, published a population-
of Orthopaedic Surgeons chose our work to receive
based study that found that while hip arthroscopy
this award, particularly when considering the ‘giants’
in New York greatly increased in the past decade,
of orthopedic surgery who have preceded us and our
revision hip surgery rates also continued to rise.
many colleagues who are currently doing incredible work in so many fields of orthopedic surgery.”
• Alexander McLawhorn, MD, MBA, published a study that found that bariatric surgery performed
HSS Alumni Reconnect at AAOS
prior to a total hip or knee replacement can reduce in-hospital and 90-day postoperative complications
AAOS also provided an environment for the HSS
and improve patient health, but does not reduce
alumni community to come together. Alumni events
the risk of needing a revision. • Anil Ranawat, MD, investigated physician ratings
According to Martha O’Brasky, Vice President, Education & Academic Affairs, more than 300
included a two-day hospitality suite, a meeting with HSS class representatives and a cocktail reception.
websites and found that reviews for individual sports
surgeons from around the world visited the HSS
More than 200 individuals attended the annual
medicine doctors were inconsistent across three
booth, and more than 100 chose to become new
alumni cocktail reception on the evening of March 17,
popular websites. He also published research that
HSS eAcademy members.
which presented a great opportunity for former
found that the majority of adolescents undergoing
“It was rewarding how many international surgeons
arthroscopic hip surgery for adolescent femoroac-
we had the opportunity to talk with from all across
“To see this community come together and engage
etabular impingement saw positive outcomes.
the world,” said Martha.
with one another demonstrates the strength of our
• Han Jo Kim, MD, presented a study that found that neurologic complications following spinal surgery resolve in the majority of patients and don’t impair quality of life. • Frank Schwab, MD, presented a study that reports for the first time that PJK (proximal junctional kyphosis) risk following lumbar spinal fusion depends on the level of the spine fused – fusing the lower portion of lumbar spine resulted in a decreased risk of PJK.
members of the HSS family to reconnect.
network,” said Martha. “HSS alumni truly foster
Dr. Wolfe Receives Prestigious Research Award
lifelong relationships!”
Scott Wolfe, MD, Chief Emeritus of the Hand and Upper Extremity Service, was presented with the prestigious Kappa Delta Orthopaedic Research Award at a ceremony on March 16. Considered one of the highest honors that an orthopedic researcher can receive, it is presented to investigators who make key discoveries leading to major advances in the field of orthopedics.
• Lawrence Gulotta, MD, presented a study that indicated that young active people who undergo shoulder replacement surgery can resume playing sports.
4
Dr. Wolfe’s research, spanning almost three decades, has advanced the understanding of wrist kinematics, which describes the wrist motions necessary to
HSS alumnus Ching-Chuan Jiang, MD, PhD, MBA; Thomas P. Sculco, MD; David B. Levine, MD; and HSS alumnus Bernard N. Stulberg, MD, pose at the Annual HSS Alumni Reception.
Department of Social Work Programs Educates on Implicit Bias SS celebrated National Professional Social Work Month in March. As part of
total knee replacement to male patients than to
the celebration, Jillian Rose, LCSW, MPH,
female patients, suggesting that gender bias might
H
shows that physicians were more likely to recommend
Assistant Director, Social Work Programs, presented
contribute to sex-based disparity in the rates and
a lecture to members of the HSS family titled
use of total knee replacements. Studies also show
“Understanding Implicit Bias and its Impact on
that racial and ethnic differences in the use of
Clinical Practice, Decision-Making and Achieving
biologic disease-modifying drugs exist.”
Optimal Health Outcomes.”
What can we do to address implicit bias at HSS?
According to Jillian, implicit biases are unconscious
Jillian recommends the following strategies.
and unintended attitudes, stereotypes or assumptions
• Provide training to enhance understanding
that affect our understanding, action and decisions in an unconscious way. These biases, which can be based on factors such as, age, language, race, ethnicity, religion, gender and economic status, are activated involuntarily without an individual’s awareness or intentional control. We are all affected by implicit bias. In fact, research shows that the ability to categorize people is a
and awareness of implicit bias. • Create partnerships with the multicultural communities we serve.
• Practice patient centered care and build partnerships with patients and their loved ones or support person(s). Get to know your patients
• Collect patient race, ethnicity and language (REL) and sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) data and connect it to patient outcomes. • Look for patterns in these datasets that might signal
fundamental quality of our mind and how we order
gaps in care or opportunities for interventions to
life. Implicit biases are based on associations
optimize care.
developed over the course of a lifetime beginning
In addition, we can all take the following steps
at a very early age through exposure to direct and
to recognize and address our own individual
indirect messages.
implicit biases.
Implicit bias is evident in all facets of our lives,
• Develop a good understanding of the potential
including the healthcare industry. Implicit bias,
of implicit bias and be alert. Take the Implicit
based on a variety of factors, can affect providers’
Association Test (IAT) to learn more about your
diagnostic decision-making, symptom management,
own implicit biases at www.projectimplicit.net.
treatment recommendations, referrals to specialty
Jillian Rose, LCSW, MPH, discussed implicit bias with members of the HSS family during National Professional Social Work Month.
beyond their diagnosis. • Use established guidelines, assessments, checklists or process flows for doing your work, and document the reasoning behind your decisions. • Cultivate awareness and sensitivity by acknowledging differences and diversity. • Work to minimize stressful situations that can cause you to rely on automatic thinking and lead to biased decisions. Implicit bias is our “blind spot”. As we expand our reach into more global communities with different values, cultures and belief systems, it is important that we continue to evolve and learn new skills on
• Practice from a stance of dignity and respect and
how to manage and provide the highest quality of
care, doctor patient communication, empathy
view people as individuals instead of as part of a
care to a diverse group of patients. Learning more
and trust.
larger group. Do not make assumptions based on
about implicit bias is one small step that can lead to
“Implicit bias is actually well documented in muscu-
eyeballing patients and do not support jokes
big impacts in the quality and outcome of care for
loskeletal health,” said Jillian. “For example, research
that disrespect any group of people.
our entire patient population.
HSS Sponsors United Airlines NYC Half Marathon Specialists Jamie Osmak and Kara Federowicz,
Daphne Scott, MD, helped more than 100 runners
served as the Official Hospital for the United
led pre-race warm-ups for more than 450 members
with recovery through guided stretches and foam
Airlines NYC Half Marathon on March 19.
of Team TCS and Team United Airlines. Additionally,
rolling at the NYRR RUNCENTER featuring the NB
Before, during and after the race, HSS provided
we held post-race recovery zones for both of these
Run Hub post-race.
guidance and support to runners, including the 14
teams with Lauren Alix, Jenna Baynes, Andrea
On March 22, HSS hosted a live chat on New York
runners from Team HSS.
Minsky, Erin Corbo, Courtney McKenzie, AJ Pegno,
Road Runners social media channels featuring
During race week, three HSS experts spoke to groups
Michelle Cilenti, Jake Grundstein, Sandy Jones,
Julie Khan, who discussed topics such as race day
of runners at the Race Expo. Sports Performance
Jason Machowsky, Emily Smith, Curtis Wu and
recovery and training tips for upcoming races. Julie
Specialist Kara Federowicz discussed strength
Robert Sockol on hand to help runners after they
answered more than 50 questions, and the chat had
training, Clinical Supervisor Polly de Mille discussed
finished the race. Finally, HSS sports rehab and
more than 12,000 views.
performance and Sports Performance Specialist
performance experts, including Sheena Alva, Jun
Pam Geisel talked about recovery.
Bak, Jeremy Bales, Darshana Chima, Polly de Mille,
ospital for Special Surgery once again
H
On race day, Physical Therapists Julie Khan and Leigh Ann Plack, along with Sports Performance
Aimee Fong, Billy Maronne and Julie Khan, along with Primary Care Sports Medicine Physician
Team HSS runners included (left photo) (back row, l-r) Ana Olivero, Janelle Engstrom, Pam Geisel, Brian VanVelzor, Aly Insull, Jeffrey Varaghese, (front row, l-r) Mike Sarmiento, Irene Kalbian, Lisa Drefus, Jian Sun, Mac Valenzuela, (right photo) Christopher James, Philippe Ortiz and Michael Coulston.
Congratulations to all members of the HSS family who completed the half marathon, and thank you to those who volunteered!
Thank you to the HSS family members who volunteered at the race!
5
Charla de Lupus Hosts Girls Night Out for Young Patients and Their Caregivers
HSS Family Joins Together to Celebrate Passover n April 5, the Spiritual Care Department
O
hosted the annual Passover Model Seder. Led by Chaplain Margo Heda, the Seder
honored the traditions of Passover, which was celebrated this year on Monday evening, April 10,
n April 6, HSS partnered with Project
O
and Tuesday evening, April 11.
Sunshine to host the annual Charla de
According to Chaplain Margo, the Seder commem-
Lupus (Lupus Chat)® Girls Night Out/
orates the Jewish people’s exodus from Egypt and
Parent Spa Night for 30 young patients with lupus,
the universal themes of moving from slavery to
as well as their parents and caregivers. At the event,
freedom. At the event, she explained the meaning
the young women were given the opportunity to pick
of Passover and shared holiday traditions with the
“Each year, it is a privilege and blessing to share the
out a dress with the help of volunteer “personal
more than 20 HSS family members in attendance.
rich traditions and universal themes of this holiday
shoppers” and Miss USA 2016 Deshauna Barber,
Guests enjoyed a kosher deli lunch and traditional
with individuals of many different disciplines and faiths
and were then pampered with new hairstyles,
Passover foods and also sang holiday songs.
from all across the hospital,” said Chaplain Margo.
makeup application and manicures. Project Sunshine, a non-profit organization that provides free educational, recreational and social
Employee Safety Zone
programs to children facing medical challenges and their families, provided the dresses, activities and the majority of the volunteers. Additionally, HSS volunteers from Charla de Lupus, the Department of Social
The 4 Cs of Employee Safety: One Manager’s Perspective
Work Programs and Pediatric Rheumatology were in
This month, we’re happy to introduce our guest
attendance to provide support and assistance.
writer Vincent Vicente, Central Sterile Processing
While the girls were busy being pampered, their
Manager, and enthusiastic member of the Employee
parents and caregivers enjoyed a relaxing spa night
Safety Committee.
with massage therapy and a parent lounge area
Our CEO, Lou Shapiro, asks that we all strive to
where they could meet one another. Caregivers in
be better…So I thought about what we do to work
attendance were thankful for the opportunity to
better and safer while keeping our employees
network with other caregivers, highlighting the
engaged. Here are my four Cs for achieving this:
importance of peer support.
Challenge
“We were honored to partner with Project Sunshine
As a manager, one of the challenges is to keep our staff safe. In Central Sterile Processing we have
Vincent Vicente with members of the CSP Equipment Technician Team
to host such a meaningful event for our young women
initiated a safety contact as part of our staff huddles and meetings in which we ask the staff for near
affected by rheumatic illness and their loved ones,”
misses and potential safety hazards. This has been very valuable in preventing injuries because early
said Melissa Flores, MPH, LMSW, Charla Program
feedback and reporting allows management to take action for resolution before an injury occurs.
Coordinator. “We strive to build our patients’
Caring
self-esteem and confidence, and it was incredible
There are so many simple ways to show that you care – looking out for each other throughout the day,
to see the event’s impact on our young women.”
thanking someone for a job well done or saying that you appreciate all that they contribute to the team.
Added Priscilla Toral, LCSW, Charla Program
One way managers can make an impact is to reach out to their staff members that have been injured on
Manager, “The night was full of positive vibes and
the job to see how they are doing and to keep them engaged in what is happening with their colleagues
smiles, and the high energy from our volunteers,
and at HSS. Embrace the opportunity to make an impact in the lives of people you work with. It doesn’t
pediatric rheumatologists and other HSS staff made
take much time or energy to show you care.
it even more special. We want to thank everyone who helped make this event a great success.”
Connection Relationships are key! Every day we work with others to get the job done safely and efficiently and so much of that depends on how well we work with others. When we do not extend ourselves, make ourselves approachable or nurture, we miss opportunities to connect. I have learned that it’s better to connect with people BEFORE you need something from them because when you finally do, that initial connection will make all the difference going forward. Commitment When I am onboarding staff I explain the expectations of the job and what we offer as an institution to keep our employees safe. I speak to the investment the employee needs to make in being accountable and the importance of their contributions to HSS. I like to share with them that being “selfless” and doing good work while taking care of each other will come back to them. I also like to share the expectations I have for myself. I believe that investing in my staff and making a commitment to assist them in achieving their goals will make a positive experience. Commitment is a two way street. If you want commitment from your staff, the manager needs to show the same or you will lose their attention and devotion. We hear about leading by example – let’s make sure we do it!
Miss USA 2016 Deshauna Barber poses with some of the young women after they were pampered at the event.
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Please contact EmployeeSafety@HSS.edu with any questions or concerns.
HSS Honors Anesthesia Technicians
E
very year on March 31, the American Society
Back in the Game SS’ online patient forum – Back in the Game –
H
of Anesthesia Technologists and Technicians
now has more than 1,600 patient stories!
celebrates National Anesthesia Technologists
The postings share how HSS helped patients
and Technicians Day. At HSS, we have seven anes-
get “back in the game.” Every month we will include one
thesia technicians who assist with the administration
of the stories that highlights the extraordinary care
and monitoring of anesthesia. They have an extensive
members of the HSS family provide.
knowledge of anesthesia techniques, instruments,
Read how HSS helped Michael Greeley of Tenafly, NJ
supplies and technology.
get back in the game.
The Anesthesiology Department at HSS honored
I suffered from a tricep
our anesthesia technicians with a luncheon to thank
tendon tear after taking
them for providing world-class care to our patients every day!
The HSS anesthesia technicians include (standing, l-r) Grell Barnes, Supervisor; Garrick Austin, Anesthesia Technician; Hector Pineda, Anesthesia Technician; Raymond Daniel, Senior Anesthesia Technician; (seated) Junior Rigby, Anesthesia Technician Manager; (not pictured) Nicholas George, Anesthesia Technician; and Michael Liu, Supply Technician.
a fall during a football game. I had never had any surgery prior to this incident and I have to tell you I wasn’t terribly happy with the idea of
Pediatric Rheumatology Patient Shines at Garden of Dreams Talent Show n April 3, Zoe Nguyen, a 9-year-old patient
O
Talent Show. As the youngest soloist in the show,
in the Pediatric Rheumatology Clinic,
Zoe performed “Theme from Schindler’s List” and
represented HSS at the Garden of Dreams
was given a standing ovation from the nearly 5,000
Talent Show at Radio City Music Hall.
individuals in attendance, including her family and
The Garden of Dreams Foundation is a non-profit
members of her HSS care team.
organization that works with The Madison Square
Dines. From the minute he walked in the door my mind was put at ease. The level of knowledge and professionalism was exactly what I needed to put aside any concerns about the surgery. Dr. Dines and his staff gave me the time and attention I needed. He explained things in terms I could understand regarding what had happened
On surgery day, everyone I came into contact with
tively impact the lives of children facing obstacles.
was kind and professional. I knew from the minute
According to the Foundation, they host the Talent
I stepped into pre-surgery that I was in good hands.
Show annually, giving more than 100 children from
If it wasn’t for the knowledge and skill of the men
various Garden of Dreams partner organizations a
and women of HSS I am confident I would not have
once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to perform at
recovered to the degree that I have.
Radio City Music Hall. HSS has partnered with the
As an avid cyclist, bagpiper, sports fanatic, not to
Foundation for two and a half years to provide amaz-
mention police officer and volunteer firefighter,
ing opportunities like this to our pediatric patients.
I rely on the strength and abilities of my arms.
Zoe is HSS’ youngest patient currently being
The demands I place on them are very high. After
treated with Sjogren’s syndrome, a chronic,
experiencing a rather traumatic injury I can say with
systemic autoimmune disease that targets the
great pleasure that my arm feels 20 years younger.
salivary glands (in the mouth) and lacrimal glands
After 6 months, I feel stronger and suffer from less
(in the eye) and can affect the joints and cause
pain than I believed possible.
abnormalities in the blood, like low platelets. She her amazing talent at this year’s Garden of Dreams
that is until I met Dr.
and how I was going to be affected moving forward.
Garden Company and MSG Networks, Inc. to posi-
began playing the violin at age 5 and demonstrated
“going under the knife,”
Zoe Nguyen, a patient in the Pediatric Rheumatology Clinic, wowed the audience at the Garden of Dreams Talent show at Radio City Music Hall. (Photo Credit: Rana Faure/MSG Photos)
I cannot thank Dr. Josh Dines and the entire HSS staff enough – they are truly the best of the best.
Employee of the Month March 2017, Deven Loknauth Congratulations to Deven, Employee of the Month for March! Deven is an Insurance Verifier in Patient Registration who has been a member of the HSS family since 2015. He has been praised by fellow members of the HSS family for his ability to go above and beyond in everything he does. Deven works with office managers across the Hospital and has been recognized as someone who always delivers. He is enthusiastic, efficient and dedicated to HSS. He also has a perfect attendance and on-time record. A colleague of Deven commented, “I have never encountered anyone of his integrity. You can just tell he really cares about his job and the people he works with. Deven is just an exceptional human being!”
7
Milestones Rehabilitation • HSS Rehabilitation was represented by 18 staff members at the 2017 APTA Combined Sections Meeting. Nine therapists were awarded with their orthopedic specialist certifications: Sarah Andrus, PT, DPT, OCS; Will Behrns, PT, DPT, OCS; John Castro, PT, OCS; Julie Ann Khan, PT, DPT, OCS; Mickey Levinson, PT, SCS; Hector Lozada, PT, DPT, OCS; Andrea Minsky, PT, DPT, OCS; Karen Resnik, PT, DPT, PCS; and Michelle Shafiro, PT, DPT, OCS, SCS. Presenters at the conference were: JeMe Cioppa-Mosca, PT, MBA;
Siobhan Clarke, PT, DPT, PCS; Karen Juliano,
Patrick Vignona, PT, MSPT, SCS, Cert MDT,
PT; Christine Lynders, PT, OCS; Magdalena
delivered a total of six presentations at the
Oledzka, PT, DPT, MBA, PCS, c/NDT; Carol
Professional Football Athletic Trainers Society
Page, PT, DPT, CHT; Sharlynn Tuohy, PT, DPT,
Educational Symposium for the NFL Combine.
MBA; Jennie Yen, PT, DPT, CHT, CLT; and Violet
• Robert DiGiacomo, PT, DPT, ATC, and Ioonna
Yuen, Senior Manager. In addition, posters were
Felix, PT, DPT, OCS, CTPS, delivered a Sports
presented by Magdalena Oledzka, PT, DPT, MBA,
Rehabilitation and Performance seminar at the
PCS, c/NDT, and William Behrns, PT, DPT, OCS.
Liga Nacional de Baloncesto (LNB) in Santo
• Jeremy Bales, PT, DPT, MTC, has earned his
Domingo, Dominican Republic.
Manual Therapy Certification. • Pete Draovitch, PT, MS, ATC, CSCS, SCS; Jaime Edelstein, PT, DScPT, COMT, OCS, CSCS; and
Picture This
Welcome Tremain Adams, Justin S. Aives, Marie Antonette G. Almojuela, Louise Angso, Berenis Baez, Kiley A. Baird, Amanda P. Baisden, Leigha Barbieri, DeShawn Beckles, Joseph C. Blanco, Hesoo Byun, Krista M. Caltagirone, Eurina A. Capella, Tina M. Castiello, Caprice M. Cervone, Denise Colvert, Shanece H. Cook, Diana H. Cruz, Crystal D’Ambrosio, Jessica De Leon, Kavit A. Desai, Casimiro S. Degliuomini, Sharyl Diamond, Zoi M. Easley, Marguerite C. Ellinger, Nancy Espinosa, Dorothy A. Fink, Erin L. Fischer, Roger Fletcher, Carey E. Ford, Julie N. Friedman, Takayuki Fujii, Himo Gang, Elaine Roxanne D. Gomez, Anna J. Gonzalez, Ramonita A. Gonzalez, Marissa H. Gordon, Mylan L. Grant, Christyn O. Green, Ophelia Green, Olga Grullon, Gabrielle Guetta, Charles S. Haime, Amina Handan, Kenneth J. Herbst, Janice L. Hernandez, Ramon Hernandez, Mary Iaccarino, Munir O. Ibrahim, Justin J. Kazim, Lina Kung, Valerie La Fata, Amy W. Lau, Bin Q. Lin, Mala D. Loknauth, Rachel E. Luscombe, Kristine MacKenzie, Sene Martin, Karin Merrins, Cheryllisa Mgbeme, Desiree Morales, Britney A. Muniz, Evelyn Nathaniel, Jeremy J. Noel, Jannie O’Brien, Jessica A. O’Connell, Tejbir S. Pannu, Tiffany Passie, Jenna L. Pearsall, Meghan E. Pociejowski, Margaret Potkay, Raldino A. Powell, Saneef Prasla, Sheeraz Qureshi, Alfred Rama, Malie Ramnarine, Sherry Randolph, Natasha A. Reale, Mariya Redko, Iris Robles, Robert Robles, Jose A. Rodriguez, Ricardo J. Rumaldo, Stephanie Russ-McRae, Ritvik R. Sarkar, Marissa R. Scheiner, Stacey M. Schorah, Rawnell Searles, Richie B. Seeratan, Santiago Sendon, Erica R. Shackelford, Siddharth Sharma, Dionica T. Shepherd, Bryan Siegel, Germa C. Souffrant, Zachary R. Stites, Stephen Surducan, George J. Sutherland, Leena Thomas, Lisa Thompson, Rochelle Torrence, Mayra Trujillo, Alyson Turner, Vanessa D. Valenzuela, Alercia M. Valerio, Anggie Vasquez Salazar, Ellen Verdibello, Liana G. Vicari, Kathleen Vincent, Jazzmen Virgo, Douglas S. Wetmore, Regena S. Williams, Valerie K. Williams, Thomas J. Woodhouse Jr., Cheng Xu, Viktoriya Znak
Joint Commission Reporting Hospital for Special Surgery is committed to providing safe, quality care to all of its patients. In the event you have a concern regarding the safety or quality of care provided by the Hospital or the Laboratory, you may report these concerns to the Joint Commission. On April 3, The New Yorker’s “Health, Medicine & the Body Issue” featured a captivating cover photo illustration of four female surgeons looking down at an operating room table. Soon thereafter, thousands of photos of surgeons attempting to replicate the cover photo began appearing on social media sites in an effort that quickly became known as the #NYerORCoverPhotoChallenge. Designed to drive awareness and support for women working in the field, HSS was proud to participate with our own version of the powerful image shown above.
Editor:
Marisa DeFilipps
Executive Editor:
Rachel Sheehan
Editorial Committee:
Lisa Goldstein, Bruce Slawitsky, John Englehart
Next Issue:
June 2017 echo@hss.edu
8
Please be assured that no retaliatory disciplinary action will be taken if an employee makes such a report. In addition, the Joint Commission has stated that your name will be treated as confidential information, and will not be shared with any other party. You may file your report in the following ways: 1. By e-mail:
complaint@jointcommission.org
2. By fax:
Office of Quality Monitoring, 630-792-5636
3. By mail:
Office of Quality Monitoring The Joint Commission One Renaissance Boulevard Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181
For fax and mail reports, submissions must be on a Quality Incident Report Form available on the Joint Commission website at www.jointcommission.org. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Executive Offices at x1236.