News items ...

New Orange Regional Medical Center Foundation Executive Team appointed

MIDDLETOWN (June 23) - Orange Regional Medical Center Foundation approved new officers of the Board of Trustees.  The newly-elected executive committee members include Chairman Rolland B. Peacock III ( a Vice-president with TD Bank North NA);  Vice Chairman Paul B. Halpern (President & CEO of Medical Staffing Resources); Treasurer Jonathan Rouis (a Partner with Rouis & Company, LLP); Secretary Thomas E. Hughes (Managing Partner at New Horizons Asset Management Group); and Members-at-Large Carol Holbert (President, Holbert’s Catering) and Richard Liberth, Esq. (Senior Partner with Tarshis, Catania, Liberth, Mahon & Milligram, PLLC).

Outgoing Chairman Cynthia Lowe was recognized for her leadership with a special gift; an executive chair inscribed with the Foundation’s logo.  During Ms. Lowe’s tenure as Chairman, Orange Regional’s Foundation developed a comprehensive fundraising program and strategically planned for and launched the largest capital campaign in its history, Building for Excellence, which has raised more than $17.5 million to date toward a goal of $21 million. “Ms. Lowe provided strong leadership and a focus on philanthropy that will serve this organization very well in the coming years.  We are very appreciative of the time and dedication she gave to our Foundation,” said Christine Maraia, Orange Regional Medical Center Foundation President. 

If you would like to donate to Orange Regional’s Foundation or would like more information, please contact the Foundation Office at 845-294-2135 or visit www.ormc.org.

Dr. Nader Kayal, honoree, poses with “Superman” t-shirt

Hooray for Hollywood and NDH Foundation’s Starlight Ball

RHINEBECK (June 23) - The theme was clear as guests arrived and walked down the “red carpet” upon entering Northern Dutchess Hospital Foundation’s 10th annual Starlight Ball.  Held under elegant tents erected at the Dutchess Country Fairgrounds, over 350 guests were on hand to celebrate and honor the stars of the show:  M. Nader Kayal, MD and Lewis J. Ruge. The event was co-produced by Mike and Patty Moses and Greg and Marita Rakow and raised close to $100,000!  

The event’s theme was classic Hollywood, complete with a red carpet entrance, paparazzi and dramatic décor. The program also wove the Hollywood theme throughout, as Dr. Kayal made his entrance to the music of “Superman”, for his heroic efforts as a leading surgeon in the community, and Mr. Ruge was ushered in to the theme from “Indiana Jones”, for his tireless efforts and against-all-odds success for his role in Northern Dutchess Hospital’s ongoing progress.

Event goers were entertained all evening as they enjoyed the “Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend Diamond Dig”, sponsored by Hummingbird Jewelers, and a classic menu featuring lobster soufflé, tenderloins of beef and baked Alaska – all expertly prepared by renowned catering company, Abigail Kirsch Culinary Productions. Food and spirits flowed all evening, compliments of Barefoot Bubbly and Bacardi by Grey Goose, and after dinner, guests enjoyed a cordials and gaming tables in the “007 Casino Royale” and exquisite chocolates, compliments of Samuel’s of Rhinebeck. Centerpieces were donated by two local florists: Bella Fiori and Floral Fantasies by Sara, and featured hundreds of white orchids throughout the room. Also adding to the dramatic décor were trees, potted plants, containers and hanging baskets, “loaned” to the event from Mac’s Agway in Red Hook and Wonderland Nursery & Florist in Rhinebeck. 

“The evening was a smashing success!” says Deborah Breen, Executive Director of the NDH Foundation.  “As a fundraiser, this year has been particularly challenging.  However, our sponsors and supporters were out in full force.  I think everyone needed a reason to celebrate – and certainly these two terrific honorees was just the right reason! Despite the economy, so many people came together to make this an evening to remember for our honorees.  That clearly demonstrates the loyalty of our constituents and the impact Dr. Kayal and Mr. Ruge have had on so many around our community.”

NDH Foundation is a not-for-profit foundation whose mission is to encourage philanthropic support for both Northern Dutchess Hospital and The Thompson House.  The Starlight Ball is just one of several fundraising events hosted by NDH Foundation. To view photos of the event visit www.health-quest.org/ndhstarlightball. 

Front L-R: Ethel Arnell, Muriel Karagianis, Nancy Finkle, Ginny Huneke Back L-R: Alice Chupay, Lois Chenkus, Ellen Hubbert, Pat Jennings, Linda Tamm

Much to applaud at NDH Auxiliary’s annual meeting

RHINEBECK (June 12) - The Northern Dutchess Hospital Auxiliary held its annual dinner meeting recently, with more than forty-five members in attendance, as well as Denise George, CEO and President of Northern Dutchess Hospital, Deborah Breen, NDH Foundation Executive Director, Pam Rhodes, Director of Women’s Services and Sarah Rogine, Director of Volunteers.

There was much to applaud during the evening’s festivities.  The hospital was gifted with checks totaling $35,000---$5,000 of which came from the NDH Gift Shop.  These monies will be used to facilitate “Phase II” improvements to the Hospital’s medical/surgical unit.  Plans include complete “makeovers” of patient rooms, the family lounge, and the nurses’ lounge, with fresh curtains, upholstery, wall paper, and furnishings, as well as upgrades and expansion of the physicians’ dictation room to accommodate the new physicians joining the team.  

Thanking members for their hours of dedication and tireless support, Denise announced that over the past twenty years, the Auxiliary has gifted the Hospital with an astonishing total of $1.7 million dollars.   Acknowledging the evening’s donation, Denise lauded the group, saying, “It’s amazing how you are continuing to raise money in today’s environment of economic challenges.”

On a sad note, Denise led the group in a moment of silence to honor Barbara Frost, a long-time Auxiliary supporter who recently passed away. 

After dinner, the auxiliary voted on the slate officers for 2009, which includes:  Lois Chenkus, president; Trudy Koser, past president; Alice Chupay, 1st vice president; Ethel Arnell, 2nd vice president; Linda Tamm, corresponding secretary; Patricia Jennings, recording secretary; Muriel Karagianis, treasurer; Elaine Morrison, events chair; Ellen Hubbert, publicity; and Ginny Huneke, by-laws.  Other Auxiliary officers for 2009 include Ethel Arnell, president; Ellen Hubbert, recording secretary; Barbara Wescott, treasure; and Mildred Young, thrift shop chair for Rhinecliff/Rhinebeck chapter.  Red Hook voted in Nancy Finkle as president, Patricia Jennings as recording secretary, and Muriel Karagianis treasurer.  Officers in Hyde Park include Alice Chupay, president; Lucille Irwin, acting president; Linda Demicki, recording secretary; and Lorraine Lashway, treasurer.   

Northern Dutchess Hospital, a Health Quest affiliate, is a 68-bed, acute care hospital located in Rhinebeck, NY. The Health Quest system includes Vassar Brothers Medical Center in Poughkeepsie and Putnam Hospital Center in Carmel.

For more information about any of Northern Dutchess Hospital’s services, log on to www.health-quest.org/ndh.

Hecht delivers the talking books to Palome

“Talking Books” project benefits hospitalized children

POUGHKEEPSIE (June 9) - Susan Karnes Hecht, a member of the Social Action Committee at Vassar Temple, delivered the first collection of "Talking Books" to the pediatric unit at Vassar Brothers Medical Center, along with a portable tape/CD player for the use of inpatient children. 

The books were donated and recorded by members of the congregation, then packaged and delivered by Ms. Hecht.  She initiated the project under the auspices of the Social Action Committee and with the support of the synagogue's Groten Fund, and looks forward to delivering more "Talking Books" as more are recorded.  Some of the stories were written and will be recorded in Spanish so more young patients can enjoy them. 

Vassar Brothers’ Child Life Coordinator, Terri Palome, and other staff members in the pediatric unit were most appreciative of the gift from Vassar Temple.  Ms. Palome said that the books will be especially welcomed by the children receiving chemotherapy, who need to pass long hours and may not feel like reading because their eyes sometimes hurt as a result of their treatment. 

DCC Nursing Program awards almost 90 pins

POUGHKEEPSIE (June 9) - Eighty-nine graduates of the Dutchess Community College Nursing Program received pins during a recent ceremony celebrating the completion of the challenging curriculum.

More details on our Education Page

Nasir, left, and Dr. Jean-Paul Menoscal (Emergency Department Director)

SLCH earns national award for stroke care

NEWBURGH (June 5) - St. Luke's Cornwall Hospital has just received the American Stroke Association’s Get With The Guidelines–Stroke (GWTG–Stroke) Silver Performance Achievement Award, and is proud to be the only hospital in Orange County to earn the distinction. The award recognizes SLCH’s commitment to excellence in stroke care and success in ensuring that stroke patients receive treatment according to nationally accepted standards and recommendations.

 “With a stroke, time lost is brain lost, and the GWTG–Stroke Silver Performance Achievement Award addresses the important element of time,” said Syed Nasir, MD, a neurologist and Director of the SLCH Stroke Program. SLCH was the first New York state-designated Stroke Center in the county, and has developed a comprehensive system for rapid diagnosis and treatment of stroke patients admitted to the Emergency Department. This includes always being equipped to provide brain imaging scans, having neurologists available to conduct patient evaluations and using clot-busting medications when appropriate.

To earn the GWTG-Stroke Silver Performance Achievement Award, SLCH has consistently demonstrated that it provides quality stroke care by complying with guidelines including aggressive use of medications like tPA, antithrombotics, anticoagulation therapy, DVT prophylaxis and cholesterol-reducing drugs, and promoting smoking cessation.

“The American Stroke Association commends St. Luke's Cornwall Hospital for its success in implementing standards of care and protocols,” said Lee H. Schwamm, MD, national Get With the Guidelines Steering Committee Member. He added that the hospital’s adherence to the guidelines “is a critical step in saving lives and improving outcomes of stroke patients.” This is the second year SLCH has received the coveted award.

It is important for to know the warning signs of stroke and to dial 911 for immediate medical attention if stroke is suspected. Symptoms of stroke include:

• Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg.
• Sudden confusion or trouble speaking or understanding.
• Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes.
• Sudden trouble walking, or loss of balance or coordination.
• Severe headache with no known cause.

SLCH is committed to improving stroke outcomes in our community, and offers free educational programs to groups interested in learning more about stroke prevention, diagnosis and treatment. Call 568-2232 to schedule a presentation.

Montayne

SLCH Employee Star of the Month

NEWBURGH (June 5) - St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital announced Mary Montanye of Clintondale, as its May Star of the Month. A five-year employee, Montanye is a Department Secretary for Pre-Admission Testing and is best known for her dedication to patients, physicians and co-workers.

"Mary is an exceptional employee who goes above and beyond every day to ensure a positive patient experience,” said Robin Fredericks, Clinical Nurse Manager. "She is solution-focused, compassionate, and always follows through. Mary exemplifies service excellence, always willing to go the extra mile to lend a helping hand. She truly is a team player.”

“I’m honored to receive this recognition,” said Montanye. “I take pride in my work
and am committed to making sure our patients have everything they need before surgery.”

St. Luke’s Cornwall Hospital employees are nominated for the Star of the Month award by their co-workers, patients, physicians and/or visitors, based on Stellar Service Standards. These standards focus on making customers feel comfortable and important, providing timely and orderly service and improving communication with patients and staff.  

LPN students graduate from Sullivan BOCES

LIBERTY (June 5) - The 2009 LPN Class at Sullivan County BOCES was recognized at a Pinning Ceremony

More details on our Education Page

Northern Dutchess Hospital Receives Outstanding Patient Experience Award™

RHINEBECK (June 3) - Northern Dutchess Hospital is pleased to announce that it has received the 2009/2010 Outstanding Patient Experience Award™ from HealthGrades, the nation’s leading independent healthcare ratings organization. NDH is one of only four hospitals in New York State to achieve this distinction.

The award is based on a national, standardized survey, called the Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems or HCAHPS, covering the year ending in June 2008. The survey assesses patients’ perspectives of the hospital care they received, including physician and nurse communication, cleanliness, noise levels, medication information and post-discharge care instructions.

“We are incredibly proud that our patients and HealthGrades have rated us among the best in the country for patient experience,” said Denise George, President and CEO of Northern Dutchess Hospital. “Our physicians, clinical staff, administration and support staff work hard every day to ensure our patients have outstanding care during their stay, from clear communication to vigilant pain management to a quiet environment in which to rest. It’s a core part of what we do, and we’re grateful for this acknowledgement.”

Northern Dutchess Hospital, a Health Quest affiliate, is a 68-bed, acute care hospital located in Rhinebeck.  For more information, visit www.health-quest.org/ndh.

A healthier idea for real estate and the work environment

POUGHKEEPSIE (June 3) - Most people know that poor air circulation and insufficient light-levels in the office can lead to chronic fatigue. 

More details on our Business Page.

L-R:  Lisa Karpp, Pat Adams, Isobelle Marsden, Sonia Ramos, Hepseli Rodriquez

CRHC employees graduate from Sullivan County Community College’s RN program

ROCK HILL (May 27) - Crystal Run Healthcare is pleased to congratulate seven of its employees that graduated from the RN Program at Sullivan County Community College on Saturday, May 16, 2009. Commencement took place at the college.

Of the seven Crystal Run graduates, six were enrolled in the LPN to RN Bridge Program, and one enrolled in the traditional RN Program. With a graduating class of 72 students, Crystal Run employees held the top honors among the class and almost all were award winners.

Sonia Ramos, RN, Staffing Coordinator for Nursing at Crystal Run, served as the Valedictorian of the SCCC Class of 2009. She completed the LPN to RN Bridge Program. Sonia has been with Crystal Run since August 2000.

Isobel Marsden, RN served as the Salutatorian of the class and also completed the LPN to RN Bridge Program. She works as a nurse in the Neurology Department at Crystal Run’s Rock Hill office and has been with the practice since November 2004.

Also completing the LPN to RN Bridge Program: Patricia Adams, RN, who works in the Allergy & Immunology department in Middletown and Rock Hill has been with the practice since July 2004; Lisa Karpp, RN, who works in Internal Medicine at the Rock Hill facility has been with Crystal Run since March 2003. Lisa was the award recipient for “Excellence in Nursing”; Katherine Menges, RN from Crystal Run’s Liberty Ob/Gyn division, has been with the practice since August 2004. Katherine was the award recipient for “Excellence in Nursing Scholarship and Research”; and Hepsali Rodriguez, from the Middletown Internal Medicine/Pediatrics department was awarded a $1000 scholarship for Continued Nursing Education. She has been with the practice since June 2005.

Kristy Baker, RN, graduated from the traditional RN Program at SCCC. Kristy works in the Rock Hill Urgent Care and has been with Crystal Run since September 2004. She is the award recipient for “Professional Growth in Nursing.” 

Crystal Run Healthcare worked collaboratively with Sullivan County Community College and other healthcare employers to sponsor a scholarship program for currently employed LPNs.

County Officials Offer Tips for Reducing the Spread of Influenza

MONTICELLO (May 27) - Following the first confirmed case of H1N1 influenza in Sullivan County, County legislators want to remind local residents of the steps they can take to reduce the spread of flu within the community.

 “While we know that the H1N1 flu is no more serious than common influenza, which circulates in our communities each year, the serious health risks associated with influenza should not be marginalized,” said Legislature Vice Chairman Ron Hiatt, who chairs the Legislative Health & Family Services Committee. “Particularly in our senior citizen population and in children, any type of influenza can pose a serious health risk.”

Residents are urged to:

1. STAY HOME. Anyone who is experiencing flu-like symptoms, including fever above 100 degrees F, coughing, sneezing, and body aches and pains, should stay home and limit contact with other people.

1. LIMIT CONTACT. If you develop flu-like symptoms while away from home, limit contact with others (stay six feet away) and go home.  If you experience more than mild illness, should check with their health care provider for advice. People who have the flu should stay home for at least 24 hours after their major symptoms resolve (a lingering cough is not uncommon) or 7 days from when their symptoms started, whichever is longer.

1. WASH HANDS. Everyone should make a habit of washing their hands frequently or using an alcohol based hand sanitizer if they are not near a sink.

1. COVER YOUR MOUTH & NOSE WHEN COUGHING OR SNEEZING.When someone with the flu coughs or sneezes without covering their mouth, viral droplets are sprayed into the air where they can be inhaled by others or land on nearby surfaces.  Always cough or sneeze into a tissue and dispose of it properly.  If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your elbow—not your hand.

Residents with questions are advised to please contact the Sullivan County Public Health Information Line.During regular business hours, please call (845) 292-5910, Press 2, then Option 1. After regular business hours and weekends, please call (845) 513-2268. For more information the public can also call the New York State Department of Health swine flu information line 24hrs/day by calling 1-800-808-1987. 

DuPilka

SFH rehab unit marks 30th anniversary

POUGHKEEPSIE (May 25) - Saint Francis Hospital’s Rehabilitation Services Unit marked its 30th anniversary May 15 with an afternoon party and reception. Among those attending was Lou DuPilka of Staatsburg.

DuPilka became the Unit’s first patient on May 16, 1979 after his van overturned on Route 9G. He’s been a paraplegic since.          “When you’re first injured you don’t know what to expect when you become a paraplegic and (the staff) helped me through the whole process,” DuPilka said. “There was a lot to learn – transferring into a vehicle, wheelies off a curb. In those days wheelchairs weighed 70 pounds and today they’re 18 pounds. You can get whiplash hopping a curb.”

When it opened to serve the community, the Unit was the first between Albany and New York City. It has now served some 12,000 patients. “I spoke with staff about former staff members they would like to invite and many, many names surfaced,” said Nurse Manager Jane Riale. “When contacted they were excited about getting together. It showed how close-knit the workers had been over the years. It was really nice to see.”

The 30th anniversary celebration was open to the public and offered an array of home cooked snacks as well as information on stroke, driver safety and education, and balance/falls.

“The biggest difference over 30 years is the change in the health care climate,” said Riale. “People would come for rehab and stay months. Today, 30 years later, the average length of stay of a rehab patient is 30 days. Where we used to send them home as functional as they could get – we were allowed to do that though the insurance companies – no longer. Today it’s a much shorter stay. They go home as independent as we can get them.”

In 2007-20-08 the Unit was awarded the Top Performer Award from Uniform Data Systems (UDS) for Medical Rehabilitation. Top performer status is based on ranking in the top 10 percent of the UDS program evaluation model for superior outcomes.