October 2016 Vol. 18 Issue 9
ECHO STORIES AND NEWS FROM THE HSS FAMILY
Dr. Wilson’s Legacy
W
e were saddened by the loss of
in education and serving as a role model and
Dr. Philip Wilson, Jr. in June, but his
inspiration for young, aspiring orthopedic surgeons.
legacy lives on. His influence on Hospital
“He was always even-tempered and fair,” recalls
for Special Surgery’s evolution into the premier
John P. Lyden, M.D., who completed his residency
center for orthopedic care, research and training
at HSS in 1972. “He was also outgoing and promoted
continues to be felt today. His leadership and vision
a sense of camaraderie among the residents and
helped transform HSS from an institution of local
fellows with social gatherings, such as Golf and Tennis
recognition into one of international acclaim.
Day, and annual events, such as Alumni Day and its
“Dr. Wilson had a vision for the Hospital that has
associated get-togethers, that still take place today.”
now been fulfilled,” said Charles Cornell, M.D., clinical
The year he became surgeon-in-chief, Dr. Wilson was
director of Orthopedic Surgery at HSS, who knew
also elected president of the American Academy of
Dr. Wilson well over several decades. “He foresaw
Orthopaedic Surgeons. On April 12, 1982, Newsweek
HSS as becoming the premier orthopedic hospital
ran an article titled “Engineering New Hips” featuring
in the country, and much of his life was dedicated
Dr. Wilson and his photo. Despite his outstanding
to accomplishing that.”
national reputation, he never sought personal renown
Dr. Cornell and countless other members of the
and retained his humble demeanor, according to
HSS family remember Dr. Wilson as a leader in
those who knew him.
orthopedics, an outstanding physician, an innovator,
His vision for the future of HSS led him to recruit
a mentor and a generous friend and colleague. He
outstanding doctors, emphasize the finest care
was a highly skilled surgeon, yet never lost sight of
and compassion for patients, provide strong support
the human and personal side of patient care.
for clinical research and maintain the highest ethical
“He had a beautiful way about him in dealing with
standards. He recognized the importance of “best
patients; a calm, reasonable way that put them at
practices” in medicine before the concept became
Dr. Wilson encouraged Dr. Levine to go to California
ease,” said Russell Warren, M.D., former surgeon-in-
widespread. That meant introducing new methods
to receive additional training in surgical techniques
chief who was appointed by Dr. Wilson to run the HSS
to prevent infections in the operating room,
to treat scoliosis in patients who had polio and
Shoulder Service in 1977. “He was a great educator in
improvements in anesthesia and an emphasis
developed serious pulmonary problems. Dr. Wilson
terms of how to be a good doctor and a good person
on post-operative care.
himself traveled to other countries periodically to
and good to the people around you.”
Dr. Wilson understood the value of specialization
Dr. Wilson’s concern for his patients’ well-being went
in an era when general orthopedic training and
Highly respected and admired by staff, Dr. Wilson
hand in hand with his passion for advancing the field
practice were still the norm. In the 1970s and 80s,
became known as the ‘orthopedist’s orthopedic
of orthopedic surgery. In 1966, he traveled to England
he often encouraged young doctors to receive
surgeon,’ according to Dr. Levine. “When staff
to learn a new procedure that was revolutionizing
additional specialty training in orthopedic centers
members wanted advice about a patient with
surgery for painful hip arthritis. The following year,
of excellence around the country before joining the
a complicated orthopedic problem, they went to
he introduced total hip replacement to HSS, offering
staff at HSS. His foresight set the stage for HSS
Dr. Wilson. When the day ended, his door was open
new hope to countless patients with debilitating hip
to become the leading center not only for highly
and you could walk in and ask him a question.
pain whose previous options had been limited.
specialized orthopedic care, but also for residency
He was a real mentor to many of the staff in the
Dr. Wilson, who was highly skilled in performing
and fellowship training.
1960s, 70s and 80s.”
“He was a very skilled surgeon, very careful and meticulous,” recalled Dr. Levine, currently director of the Alumni Association and medical historian at HSS. “He was also very interested in education and in teaching young orthopedic residents and fellows the art and science of orthopedic surgery.”
learn about new procedures and techniques.
a wide range of orthopedic procedures, began to
Dr. Wilson’s dedication, sound judgment and surgical
Dr. Wilson had high expectations, yet treated all
specialize in hip replacement.
skills were matched by his integrity, generosity and
Hospital staff with respect. “He knew everyone, and
Dr. Wilson led the hospital as surgeon-in-chief
compassion for his patients, according to David B.
everyone was important,” said Nigel Sharrock, M.B.,
from 1972 to 1989. During this time, he also became
Levine, M.D., who trained as a first-year resident
ChB, whom Dr. Wilson recruited in 1986 to lead the
director of the residency program, fostering innovation
under Dr. Wilson.
Anesthesiology Department. “He looked after everyone with courtesy and grace. Today we use the term, ‘the HSS family,’ and that was very much his making.”
CONTINUED on page 2
Inside
2 3 4
Joel Press, M.D., Joins HSS Engagement Day Lisa Colman Receives Wholeness of Life Award
Joel Press, M.D., Joins HSS to Head Department of Physiatry
Dr. Wilson’s Legacy CONTINUED FROM COVER With Dr. Wilson’s support, Dr. Sharrock introduced regional anesthesia techniques, implemented a pain service and established sophisticated monitoring systems in the OR. Dr. Wilson also had excellent people skills, according
SS proudly
to Douglas Padgett, M.D., chief of the Adult Recon-
welcomed
struction and Joint Replacement Service, who worked
Joel Press,
closely with Dr. Wilson for more than a decade.
H
M.D., as the new chairman, Department of Physiatry, and physiatrist-inchief this September. “Our Department of Physiatry gives patients with spinal and sports-related injuries a well-rounded diagnosis and set of treatment options,” said Todd J. Albert, MD, surgeon-in-chief and medical director. “Under Dr. Press’ guidance, we are primed to continue our journey to provide patients with fully integrated, comprehensive non-operative care supporting all of our orthopedic specialties.” Added Lou Shapiro, president and CEO, “HSS is committed to staying at the forefront of all aspects of musculoskeletal care, both surgical and non-surgical. Dr. Press brings strong leadership skills and has vast experience in leading clinical and academic physical medicine and rehabilitation that will take our physiatry service and care of all musculoskeletal conditions to the next level.” Dr. Press succeeds Joseph Feinberg, M.D., as physiatrist-in-chief. Dr. Feinberg led the department to where it is today and will continue to play a vital role in fortifying HSS Physiatry as a world-class
“He knew how to manage people. He enabled everyone to rise to the top without ever jeopardizing the mission of HSS,” said Dr. Padgett, who knew his mentor as a man of integrity who always put his patients first. “For Dr. Wilson, it was always about doing the right thing.” “He was a consummate physician and surgeon, and he led by example,” said Paul Pellicci, M.D., who completed his residency at HSS while Dr. Wilson was surgeon-in-chief and later joined the Hospital staff. “He treated his patients with dignity and respect. We all wanted to emulate him because of the type
Philip Wilson, Jr. carried on his father’s legacy,
of person and physician he was.”
intensifying efforts to develop a strong research
Born on Valentine’s Day in 1920, Dr. Wilson had an
division at HSS. The expansion of the Biomechanics
affinity for bow ties and a big heart. “His patients
Department remains one of his most noteworthy
loved him. He spent a lot of time with them, really
achievements. By recruiting leading engineers to work
getting to know them and their families,” recalled
with orthopedic surgeons, Dr. Wilson transformed
Mary Birnbaum, who worked with him for more than
the Hospital into a leading joint replacement center.
six decades as his administrative assistant. “In all the
The engineers worked with Dr. Wilson and other
years I worked for him, I never heard him say a bad
top hip and knee replacement surgeons at HSS
word about anybody or get angry.”
to develop custom implants for the most severe
“He always brought out the good in people,” said Leslee Wong, who worked with Dr. Wilson as a medical secretary for 38 years. “He was an incredible
could now come to HSS for help.
doctors. He worked with you and taught you.”
replacements, Dr. Wilson achieved his goal of
“Dr. Press is one of the most highly regarded physia-
figure in the hospital’s growth and advancement.
trists nationally in the diagnosis and management
He idolized his father, Dr. Philip Wilson, Sr., a
of non-operative sports and spine conditions, and
renowned orthopedic surgeon at HSS. Even before
we are very excited and fortunate to have him,” said
becoming a doctor, Philip Jr. accompanied his
Dr. Feinberg.
dad when he went to check on his patients in the
he served as medical director of its Spine & Sports
desperate to overcome years of pain and disability
Through biomechanics and customized joint
Perhaps Dr. Wilson was destined to become a key
Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago (RIC), where
problems, using computer-assisted designs. People
mentor and teacher to many people, not just the
clinical, teaching and research department.
Prior to joining HSS, Dr. Press worked at the
Dr. Wilson with John Hinchey, M.D., President of the AAOS in 1971
Hospital. His father was an exemplary role model.
improving the lives of countless patients with debilitating arthritis. “In the 1970s and 80s, the front door of this Hospital had wheelchairs lined up with people who had deformities that we now tackle on a regular basis,” Dr. Padgett notes. In the 1970s, a number of pioneering knee replacement implants were developed at HSS.
He served as surgeon-in-chief from 1935 to 1955
Well into his nineties, Dr. Wilson still attended
and established the hospital’s first Research Division.
grand rounds and other meetings at the Hospital. Although he stopped doing surgery in the late 1990s,
Rehabilitation Center since 1994. He earned his
When Philip Jr. finished his orthopedic training
undergraduate degree at the University of Michigan
in 1951, he joined his father’s practice at HSS.
and his medical degree at University of Illinois before
“He followed in his father’s footsteps,” said Mary.
completing his residency at Northwestern University.
“It was a remarkable partnership; they got along
He frequently lectures internationally on the rehabili-
so well. Dr. Wilson’s father was a great influence,
His research continued as well. Decades ago, he
tation of spine and sport-related injuries.
especially in the area of research.”
started a joint replacement registry that followed
he continued to offer second opinions on complicated cases and follow up with people who had been his patients for years.
more than 1,200 patients over 40 years to see how
“I am looking forward to being part of such a great
hip replacement improved their quality of life. While
institution as HSS,” said Dr. Press. “HSS has the
most studies have focused on how long the implant
people, systems, administrative support and facilities
lasted, Dr. Wilson wanted to see how the surgery
to provide the most comprehensive surgical and
improved patients’ lives. Dr. Cornell has taken over
non-surgical care for patients with spine and sports
the project and is now compiling the data with the
related injuries in the world. It is an honor to become
help of HSS statisticians. He hopes to see the study
part of this institution.”
published next year. Dr. Wilson’s final research project complements his legacy of caring and his commitment to excellence Dr. Wilson with a patient
2
that we continue to honor every day.
HSS Celebrates Unprecedented Turnout at Engagement Day n September 13, members of the HSS
share how they fit in on the journey by placing a star
family were invited to attend Engagement
sticker on the HSS Strategic Roadmap to 2020 in the
Day. The event kicked off our 2016 Gallup
section that best encompassed their role. Attendees
O
Survey and celebrated the many ways we can all
were also invited to add their thoughts to engagement
become more engaged here at HSS.
boards, answering the question “What does employee
More than 1,800 people stopped by the day-long
engagement mean to me?” and completing the
event, where they had the opportunity to complete
sentence “I am engaged because…” Comments
the survey using a tablet. The event was such a
included, “being an advocate,” “sharing the same
success that we achieved our highest one-day
vision of excellence” and “I take pride in HSS.” Finally,
Gallup survey participation rate ever!
HSS family members enjoyed a selfie station where
“Engagement is part of our culture at HSS,” said Bruce Slawitsky, senior vice president, Human
they took photographs using different props to post to social media.
Resources and Service Excellence. “The Gallup
A special thanks to Emma Reuter, project manager,
Survey is especially important because it gives us
Organizational Learning, who coordinated and
the opportunity to collect valuable information and
oversaw Engagement Day, as well as the following
feedback from the entire HSS family and use that
members of the Employee Engagement Committee
information to make improvements that will create
who helped with the event: Dalia Abusharr, Brianne
the best possible work environment.”
Aiken, Liliana De Jesus, Pablo Dolmo, Mary Hargett,
The event featured several tables with information for those in attendance. Topics included phishing awareness, Epic training, enterprise risk management, employee safety and employee activities. Occupational Health was also on
Lauren Hee, Christopher James, Amy Jiang, Eden Kalman, Pamela Katkin, Inderpal Kohli, Melissa Medina, Paola Monzon, Marilyn Nieves, Jessica Podell, Amanda Pupino, Carole Travers, Denise Williams, Andrew Worob and Violet Yuen.
HSS Experts Educate Student Athletes at CUNYAC Seminar he City
T
University of New York
Athletic Conference (CUNYAC) invited HSS to participate in their 11th annual CUNYAC StudentAthlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) Jason Machowsky, RD, CSSD, Leadership Seminar RCEP, CSCS, talked to the students about sports nutrition.
and CUNYAC
Coaches Rules Seminar in late August at Lehman College in the Bronx, NY. The seminar aimed to help educate student athletes on becoming leaders both on and off the field. At this year’s event, two experts from HSS were on hand to speak with the students about nutrition and injury prevention. Jason Machowsky, RD, CSSD, RCEP, CSCS, board certified sports dietitian and exercise physiologist, presented a workshop on sports nutrition, giving those in attendance advice
hand to provide flu vaccinations.
on fueling the body before, during and after training.
In addition, interactive stations
Jamie Osmak, CSCS, USATF, CGFI-1, certified
gave members of the HSS family
strength and conditioning specialist, talked to the
the chance to truly engage in
students about the importance of stretching to
activities with their colleagues.
prevent injuries and showed them some exercises
The HSS Transformation: small
to incorporate into their routines.
steps, BIG IMPACT station
Approximately 200 student-athletes, team captains
showcased a presentation
and leaders attended the event and were apprecia-
featuring examples from different
tive of the information, tips and advice the HSS
departments across the Hospital
experts shared.
of how they are transforming at HSS. Everyone was invited to
HSS family members pose with tote bags given to those who attended Engagement Day.
Jamie Osmak, CSCS, USATF, CGFI-1, spoke to the student athletes about stretching before and after training.
Making Rounds Lou Shapiro, president and CEO, enjoyed the selfie station.
Tablets were available to complete the 2016 Gallup survey.
News & Insights from Lou Shapiro, President and CEO
Access “Making Rounds” www.hssmakingrounds.com, to read the below posts and more. I look forward to your comments. – Lou Shapiro • “I got your back!” • Revisiting Shared Leadership • small steps, BIG IMPACT • Team HSS Walks to Cure Lupus The HSS Transformation table gave those in attendance the chance to explore where they fit in on the Strategic Roadmap to 2020.
The Occupational Health Department gave flu shots at the event.
• HSS is… Closer • Shared Leadership in Action
3
Lisa Colman, RN, Demonstrates Compassion and Dedication as 2016 Wholeness of Life Award Recipient t HSS, we are committed to providing the
she has done during her time at HSS. He shared a
best possible care to our patients through
memory of meeting Lisa for the first time and said
A
world-class work, dedication and compas-
that she is someone he was unable to forget due to
sion. This commitment is clearly demonstrated by
her kind and caring manner.
Lisa Colman, RN, clinical nurse III, 6th floor, who
“This is probably the most important recognition we
was recently honored with the 2016 Wholeness
give,” said Lou. “This award represents the importance
of Life award.
of culture in the organization and how it makes us
According to Sister Margaret Oettinger, director,
unique and special. The most important element
Pastoral Care, the prestigious Wholeness of Life
of our strategic plan is our culture, which is defined
award is presented annually by HSS and HealthCare
by people who work here and what they do. We are
Chaplaincy Network to an individual who is recognized
honored and privileged to be part of an organization
Lisa Colman with Lou Shapiro at the Wholeness of Life award ceremony.
for his or her years of providing compassionate care
where people exude passion and compassion for
for patients and the dedication to promoting a
what we are here to do. You only need to look at Lisa
Working with her is a privilege. She is an amazing
balance of physical, mental and spiritual well-being –
and you can see the caring she has exuding from her.”
person all around.”
something Lisa is known widely for doing.
Lou presented Lisa with her award to cheers from
Following the words of congratulations, a video was
Her immeasurable kindness and caring, coupled
the audience, which included her husband, daughter
shared with the audience that included photos from
with her clinical expertise, make a difference in the
and beloved coworkers.
Lisa’s life with her friends and family – which was a
lives of those she touches, including her patients,
Next, Ann LoBasso, MBA, RN, NE-BC, vice president,
family, friends and colleagues. Lisa’s contributions
Inpatient Operations, Nursing, presented Lisa with
The honoree herself finally took the stage to address
embody a holistic approach to caring for the whole
flowers and shared kind words from her nomination
the crowd. “I am deeply honored and overwhelmed
patient in body, mind and spirit.
letter, which stated, “She brings a personal touch
and completely humbled. This is a beautiful place
Earlier this year, Lisa was surprised by Lou Shapiro,
to the care she brings. She truly cares about each
to work. We are kind to each other and the award
president and CEO, along with a group of her colleagues,
patient. Lisa is an extremely warm and kind person
recognizes that. The award honors not just me, but
when she found out she would be receiving the award.
who is easy to work with.”
all of us. It is such a blessing to work here.”
On September 9, an official celebration was held
Two of Lisa’s longtime colleagues also joined in to
Reverend Margaret Tuttle ended the ceremony
in her honor in the Richard L. Menschel Education
speak about their experience working alongside her.
with a blessing, which was followed by the playing
Center with a packed house of family, friends and colleagues in attendance.
“She gives 210% each time she clocks in,” said Pia Madamba, RN, FBSN, ONC, patient care director,
surprise to Lisa.
of the Irish national anthem to honor Lisa’s heritage. Attendees were then treated to a reception to continue the celebration.
C. Ronald McKenzie, M.D., chairman of the Spiritual
6th floor. “She puts her patients first, her friends
Care Committee, opened the ceremony with a
next and herself last. I feel like she is a little guardian
Lisa was also recognized along with honorees from
welcome to all in attendance. Following, Chaplain
angel watching over all of our patients.”
other New York hospitals at a formal dinner and
Margo Heda led the crowd in an opening prayer.
Added Daniela Tinca, BSN, RN, ONC, clinical nurse III,
reception at the Mandarin Hotel on November 3.
Lou then took the stage to speak about Lisa’s
6th floor, “Everything comes from the heart. She is
Congratulation Lisa on this incredible honor and for
commitment to her patients and the amazing work
someone to look up to, and she is always there for you.
being a role model to everyone in the HSS family!
Lisa Colman’s colleagues from the nursing department celebrated the honor with her.
Sister Margaret Oettinger, Lisa Colman and Don Foiles, 2014 Wholeness of Life award recipient, at the ceremony.
HSS Family Supports Big Brothers Big Sisters Race for the Kids
T
his September, members of the Big Brothers
HSS family members have been participating
Big Sisters (BBBS) Workplace Mentoring
in the BBBS Workplace Mentoring Program
Program at HSS participated in the 12th
since 2006. The program just kicked off again
Annual Race for the Kids in Brooklyn’s Prospect
for the eleventh year. HSS Bigs will be mentoring
Park. According to BBBS of NYC, the event is one of
10th grade students from Talent Unlimited High
the biggest of the year, and its success enables the
School in Manhattan.
organization to provide mentors to more children who
Thank you to all who donated and to the HSS Bigs
are in need. The HSS Bigs raised nearly $4,000 in sup-
for their participation in the Workplace Mentoring
port of the event through bake sales, raffles and online
Program and their successful fundraising efforts!
donations from friends, family and HSS colleagues.
4
HSS Bigs Bob Nolan, Josephine Akinola and Pam Katkin, PA-C, pose with a high school student who was Bob’s “Little” in the Workplace Mentoring Program at HSS and who also participated in the Race for the Kids event this year.
HSS Greeters Focus on the Patient Experience atient care is foundational to HSS. We exist
P
laugh and also empathize with them and make them
to help people get back to what they need
feel better. If they leave with a smile on their face
and love to do better than anyone else in
I know I have done my job.”
the world. As an organization, we are constantly
The recent addition of HSS Express Check-In
transforming to ensure that our patients experience
in mid-August has helped to further improve the
the best care possible.
patient experience. Express Check-In, which utilizes
Earlier this year, HSS transitioned to a centralized
Epic’s ‘Welcome’ module, provides patients with the
admitting model with the opening of Patient Access
option to check in for appointments via a self-service
Services (PAS) on the first floor of the Main Hospital.
tablet. The new technology has also had an impact
With the creation of the new PAS location also came
on the role of the greeters.
the creation of a new position – the greeter. Greeters
Each morning, the greeters are given a tablet that
are patient access specialists who meet each patient
contains a list of patients arriving that day, and it
at the entrance to PAS and guide them through the
lets them know who will be eligible to use Express
check-in process.
Check-In. When a patient arrives at PAS, the greeter
“The main focus of the greeter is making sure the
welcomes them, finds their name on the list and
Stephen Pesantez greets a patient and begins the check-in process.
flow of the department is optimal and that we are
then decides how they should proceed. If they are
available to answer any and all patient questions,”
eligible to use Express Check-In, the greeter gives
wait time down because there are more options
said DeCiembre White, director, Patient Access
the patient the option and then helps them use the
available for patients.”
Services. “This role is critical for the efficiency of
tablet. If the patient is having trouble walking, is
As of mid-November, more than 2,500 patients have
the entire department.”
in a wheelchair or seems resistant to using the
already used Express Check-In. On average, it takes
Stephen Pesantez has been an admitting assistant
technology, the greeter will assess the situation
patients less than three minutes to check in using
for nearly four years and understands the importance
and let them know they can sit with an admitting
the tablet and about seven minutes to completely
of his role as a greeter. “The greeter is the first person
assistant to complete check in.
cycle through PAS. These decreased times allow
the patient sees. We are setting the stage for their
“The launch of Express Check-In was all about
the greeters to focus more on patients who have
entire experience at HSS and trying to make them
allowing for patient preference,” said DeCiembre.
questions or require additional assistance.
as comfortable as possible.”
“If a patient prefers to use technology to check in
Patient feedback to Express Check-In has been
Fellow greeter Robert Perez added, “We have a great
for Hospital services they have the option to do so,
extremely positive to date. “Once a patient finishes
impact on patient experience right from the start.
but if they prefer to sit with someone and check in
with Express Check-In they often say, ‘That’s it?’
A lot of patients are nervous or upset when they come
they have that option as well.”
because it is so quick and easy,” said Stephen.
in so we comfort them and help them ease into the
One of the immediate benefits of Express Check-In
The opening of PAS, the new role of the greeter
whole situation.”
has been the decrease in wait time.
and the introduction of Express Check-In are just
James Russell, who also serves as a greeter,
“There is now almost little to no wait time for
several ways HSS has worked to improve the patient
appreciates the new role because it creates a
patients when they check in,” said James. “The
experience. As we grow and evolve on our journey to
warmer experience for patients who might not
process is very streamlined. Before, patients
being better, we will continue to find new ways to
expect the personalized attention and kindness
could check in and sit for a while if there was
make sure that our patients are experiencing our
when they go to a hospital. “I try to make patients
a high volume. Express Check-In has helped cut
commitment to excellence each and every day.
New Medical Staff Alexander S. McLawhorn, M.D., MBA Alexander S. McLawhorn, M.D., MBA, is an assistant attending orthopedic surgeon at Hospital for Special Surgery specializing in adult reconstruction of the hip and knee, including complex primary and revision joint replacement surgery. He attended college at Yale University. After receiving his medical degree from Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, Dr. McLawhorn completed his residency at HSS, where he earned awards for excellence in orthopedic surgery and research. He continued his training at HSS as a fellow in adult reconstruction and joint replacement, serving as an administrative chief fellow and earning additional recognition for excellence in orthopedic research. Dr. McLawhorn has particular interests in healthcare delivery, quality, safety and value. Because of his passion for these issues, he has served as the Health Policy Fellow for the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons (AAHKS). In this capacity, he helped positively influence the ways the hip and knee replacement are provided through government-regulated insurance. Related research earned him the Frank Stinchfield Award from the Hip Society. His current research is focused on projects that will help other surgeons enhance the value of arthritis care that they provide to their patients.
5
Healthy Opportunities Take Center Stage at the Annual Wellness Fair
A
t HSS, the physical, mental and spiritual
Additionally, the event marked the start of flu
Thank you to everyone who helped to organize the
health of every member of the HSS family
shot season at HSS. The Occupational Health
event to help keep us as healthy as possible!
is a top priority. The annual Wellness Fair,
Department was on hand to provide vaccinations
organized by the Employee Wellness Committee,
to those in attendance.
showcased the opportunities available to help keep
“At HSS, we are dedicated to providing as many
everyone healthy, safe and active.
opportunities as possible to help keep the entire
Those in attendance learned about nutrition from
HSS family healthy,” said Bruce Slawitsky, senior vice
registered dietitians, the HSS Lifestyle Wellness
president, Human Resources and Service Excellence,
Program, body mechanics and ergonomics, discount
and head of the Employee Wellness Committee. “The
gym memberships and fitness programs, spiritual
many offerings available to the HSS family showcased
wellness and more. In addition, HSS family members
during the Wellness Fair – from gym memberships
were able to sign up for Vitality, our online wellness
to opportunities for healthy eating to the Vitality
platform, and taste fresh fruit from OurHarvest, an
platform – all demonstrate this.”
online farmers market that provides a discount to
Regional locations and night staff were able to join in
everyone at HSS. There were also healthy snacks
as well with information and handouts that outlined all
available from the Belaire café, including raw nuts
of the available opportunities.
The Occupational Health Department gave flu shots to members of the HSS family.
Attendees played a game to learn more about spiritual health and wellness from the Spiritual Care Department.
Registered dietitians from the Food and Nutrition Department offered advice and tips for healthy eating.
and Kind bars.
The Physical Therapy Department taught those in attendance about body mechanic and ergonomics.
Employee Safety Zone Get to Know the HSS Body Mechanics Program In 2014, the Body Mechanics Program was created to help keep all members of the HSS family safe, healthy and injury free. Jon Cinkay, PT, program coordinator, along with Luba Chernov, PT, MPA, and Melissa Medina answered questions about the program and its importance here at HSS. Q: What is the Body Mechanics Program? A: The Body Mechanics program aims to minimize the risk of injuries, such as strains and sprains, by educating members of the HSS family on how to safely do their jobs. This includes everything from moving equipment to lifting patients to sitting at a desk and working on a computer. We also encourage everyone to be mindful of their surroundings. Many accidents can be prevented by simply knowing what objects are near you. If an injury does occur, we urge you to report it through the RL Online Occurrence Reporting System. Q: How does the program work? A: We work with entire departments, as well as individuals. Our department based in-services start with a meeting with the director and “champions” of the program. We review incident reports and observe the team in their work environment before putting together a tailored program on ways to improve safety and minimize injury. We follow up with a survey to collect feedback and provide handouts and recommendations for future use. We also work with individuals who request a consultation at their workspace. Finally, through our 1:1 and Return to Work programs, we schedule meetings with individuals who have reported a strain/sprain injury to review the specific incident to help prevent it from happening again. Q: How has the program benefitted the HSS family? A: Those who have gone through the program have been extremely happy about the attention and assistance to help keep them safe. We’ve seen a 37 percent decrease in the number of Workers’ Compensation claims filed from 2013 to 2015. Q: Who is eligible to participate in the program? A: Every member of the HSS family is eligible to participate! The program is not just for clinical staff. We are here to help, and we hope everyone will take advantage of this opportunity. Q: What is the future of the program? A: We started by focusing on the departments with the highest number of injury incidents, and have now worked with multiple departments across HSS. Our goal is to see everybody at the Hospital once per year and continue to follow up annually. We have plans to work with the regional locations soon as well. For more information on the Body Mechanics Program, email EmployeeSafety@HSS.edu.
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HSS Family Members Help Deserving Children in the New School Year
Back in the Game SS’ online patient forum – Back in the Game –
he Employee Activities Committee (EAC)
said Mary Hargett, administrative director, Education,
organized the Annual School Supply Drive
Department of Anesthesiology, and chair of the EAC.
H
for the eighth consecutive year. Members
now has more than 1,400 patient stories! The
T
postings share how HSS helped patients get
“back in the game” of life. Every month we will include
The schools that benefited from our generous
one of the stories that highlights the extraordinary care
of the HSS family were encouraged to donate
donations were Jackson Annex Elementary School
members of the HSS family provide.
backpacks, notebooks, pens and other supplies to
in Hempstead, NY; Stillmeadow Elementary School in
help deserving students as they went back to school.
Read how HSS helped Mim Baker Finkelstein of Stony
Stamford, CT; Columbus Elementary School in Lodi,
Brook, NY get back in the game.
HSS regional locations in Long Island, Stamford and
NJ; and an anonymous school in New York City, as
Paramus played a huge role in this year’s drive for
well as pediatric patients in our ambulatory care and
the first time, collecting supplies that were donated
social work programs.
to elementary schools in their local areas.
Thank you to everyone who donated to this wonderful
the mostly seden-
“We are very pleased to recognize the outstanding
cause and to all members of the EAC: Ann Bienstock,
tary nature of my
job that our colleagues in the HSS regional locations
Liliana De Jesus, Mary Hargett, Westley Holiday,
work caught up
have done this year in donating and distributing
Christopher James, Pamela Katkin, Angelic Linen,
with me. I was
supplies to students in need in their respective areas,”
Paola Monzon and Stephanie Thacker.
having difficulty
A year ago, after a long career in college teaching,
walking. My legs, which had been bowed from birth, were becoming more seriously bowed. I didn’t think there was anything I could do about it. Nothing much, that is, until I found Dr. Eduardo Salvati and Hospital for Special Surgery. Now, a year later and two total knee replacements later, I have two beautifully straight legs and I walk with ease and pleasure. Some people tell me, “Well Members of HSS Long Island pose with Sheena Burke, principal of Jackson Annex Elementary School.
Members of HSS Paramus are pictured with school supplies that they collected for Columbus Elementary School.
you were just lucky.” That is true; I am fortunate, but I attribute my good fortune to Hospital for Special Surgery and the splendid care I received there. From the social worker who first interviewed me, to the nurses, aids, and PT folks who cared for me, and most of all to the surgeon who gave me the courage to do it – I cannot say enough. Hospital for Special Surgery well deserves its international reputation for excellence. I think it should be made a national monument.
Pamela Sanchez-Villagomez poses with students at Stillmeadow Elementary School in Stamford.
Mary Hargett and Christopher James of the EAC helped organize the School Supply Drive.
Employee of the Month Vincenzo Bongiorno, September 2016 Congratulations to Vincenzo, Employee of the Month for September! Vincenzo is a unit assistant in the operating room who has been a member of the HSS family since 2012. He has been described by colleagues as one of the hardest working individuals in the OR. Vincenzo is extremely efficient, professional and conscientious. He is a great multi-tasker who is always willing to lend a hand to his colleagues, regardless of the task. Vincenzo is an asset to HSS and contributes greatly to the OR running smoothly. His positive attitude and permanent smile make Vincenzo a pleasure to be around, for both his colleagues and patients. He continuously brings dedication and kindness with him to work every day, making him a most deserving Employee of the Month.
7
Milestones Research, Academic and External Activities • Susan M. Goodman, M.D., and Barry D. Brause, M.D., led a symposium at the Musculoskeletal
• Anna Ribaudo, PT, DPT, OCS, CKTP, offered
a poster presentation with Lorene C. Janowski,
tips for alleviating back pain in new moms
DPS, OTR/L, MS, C/NDT. Jennie Yen, PT,
for Parents.com.
DPT, CHT, CLT, was named a member of the
• Andrea Minsky, PT, DPT, did a live Facebook chat
Education Division.
Infection Society’s 26th Annual Open Scientific
with the New York Road Runners to help people as
• Emily Altman, PT, DPT, CHT, OCS, CLT, presented
Meeting where they discussed “Medical
they trained for the TCS New York City marathon.
an instructional course, as did John Castro, PT,
Management of the High Risk Patient.” • Cathleen Raggio, M.D.; Daniel Rich, M.D.; David Dines, M.D.; Joshua Dines, M.D.; and
• Aviva Wolff, OTR, CHT, was named the Director of the Research Division for the American Society of Hand Therapists (ASHT). Aviva presented an
DPT, MTC, OCS, and Nick Maroldi, PT, DPT, SFMA. • Charles M. Fisher, PT, MPT, MBA; Coleen Gately, PT, DPT, CHT, CLT; Derrick Johnson, clinical
William Briner, Jr., M.D., have been named to
instructional course, served as moderator for two
informatics coordinator; and Carol Page, PT, DPT,
Castle Connolly’s Top Doctors Long Island list,
sessions and delivered a paper presentation at
CHT, presented at the Epic Users Group Meeting
the 2016 ASHT Annual Meeting in Dallas, TX.
in Verona, WI.
which can be found as an insert in Newsday.
Rehabilitation • Polly de Mille, RN, MA, RCEP, CSCS, appeared on NBC Nightly News for a segment about the accuracy of wearable fitness trackers. • Jason Machowsky, RD, CSSD, RCEP, CSCS,
Alexandra MacKenzie, OTR/L, CHT, received
• Ibadete Thaqi, research coordinator, was
a service award as an ASHT Annual Meeting
featured in a story on ABC 7 Eyewitness News
Committee member, and moderated three talks.
about her personal journey of recovery and
Eugenia Papadopoulos, OTD, OTR/L, CHT,
success at Hospital for Special Surgery. JeMe
delivered an instructional course and a poster
Cioppa-Mosca, PT, MBA, senior vice president,
presentation that was awarded best poster.
rehabilitation, and David Helfet, M.D., were
did an interview about eating better for health
Gwen Weinstock-Zlotnick, Ph.D., OTR/L, CHT,
interviewed for the piece.
website Greatist.com.
led an instructional course and co-authored
Picture This
Welcome Kunal N. Agarwal, Danielle Amar, Alvin Andaya, Jared Anderson, Maria Andrade Hidalgo, Christina Andreadis, Taylor M. Arcaro, Nicole Archer, Diren Arsoy, Marylynn Barr, Jillian Barton, Jacqueline E. Belizar, Richard Blanding, Roger W. Boles, John A. Bone, Robert Borusiewicz, Christopher J. Bux, Alexa R. Campanile, Daisy B. Crego, Kathryn T. Dearing, Sheree DesMouline, Daniel W. DiLauro, Janelle Engstrom, Peter D. Fabricant, Christopher M. Farlinger, Joy (Yanan) Feng, Robert J. Frawley, Chandra Sekhar Gantha, Maria Gonzalez, Priyanka P. Govani, Sarah E. Grond, Sunil Gurung, Ali M. Khan, Jennifer H. Kim, Carly Lang, Robert Largey, Daria Larine, Daniel Li, Xue Li, Naomi Lucas, Danielle M. MacCourtney, Martin Mark, Eileen T. McGrew, Julio N. Mejia, Serene Mirza, Jay Mizuta, Rocco P. Morra, Molly Morris, Meghan Newcomer, Omer Or, Pashk Peraj, Natalie Rizzo, Elkanah Rogers, Nicole Rosas, Denise E. Samuels, Martha Santos, Andrew T. Scavuzzo, Hanna H. Schlang, Aaron A. Schweitzer, Roberto Tavella, Michael D. Tiongson, Dennis Ward, Marlon Washington, Nicole C. Wofford, Eugene F. Yap
HSS family members at the Long Island Outpatient Center who participated in the Employee Walking Program this summer tracked more than 283,000 steps! Angela Skyers, medical assistant, tracked the most with 42,621, and was presented with a gift basket by Lissette Wilkes, LPN, who helped execute the program.
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. 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.
8
Compliance Helpline Reminder 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. 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. If you have any questions or concerns, contact the Corporate Compliance office directly, at x2398.
Editor:
Marisa DeFilipps
Executive Editor:
Rachel Sheehan
Editorial Committee:
Lisa Goldstein, Bruce Slawitsky, John Englehart
Next Issue:
November 2016 echo@hss.edu