Annually, National Nurses Week begins on May 6 and ends on May 12, the birthday of Florence Nightingale, founder of nursing as a modern profession.

Four nurses were recognized with Nurse of Distinction Awards from St. Elizabeth Medical Center, Case Management, St. Elizabeth Medical Group and the College of Nursing on May 8. Also named were a Nurse Technician and Ward Clerk of Distinction.

Named as St. Elizabeth Medical Center Nurse of Distinction was:

Robin Westbrook, RN received her Associate Degree in Nursing from Morrisville College. She obtained her Bachelor of Science Degree in Nursing from SUNYIT and has been a Critical Care RN for more than 20 years. Ms. Westbrook has been employed at the Medical Center since 2006. She resides in Herkimer with her two dogs and enjoys hiking, kayaking and spending time in the Adirondacks.

St. Elizabeth Medical Center Quality and Case Management Nurse of Distinction:

Deborah Benson, RN, BS, MS has been employed at St. Elizabeth Medical Center since 2005, originally as the Peer Review Instrument Screening Nurse. Prior to joining the Medical Center, Mrs. Benson was Administrator at Folts Homes in Herkimer. She is currently the Director of Clinical Quality. Mrs. Benson holds a Master’s Degree in Healthcare Administration, a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology and an Associate Degree in Nursing.

St. Elizabeth College of Nursing Nurse of Distinction:

Doreen Rogers, MS, RN, CCRN, CNE is a 1992 graduate of St. Elizabeth College of Nursing (SECON). She received her Bachelor of Science Degree from SUNYIT and her Master of Science Degree in Nursing Education from Mansfield University in Mansfield, Pennsylvania. Mrs. Rogers is currently pursuing a Doctorate of Nursing Science in Nursing Education and Leadership at Sage Graduate School in Albany. She has been an instructor at the SECON for the past six years and has been an adjunct faculty member at Upstate Medical University College of Nursing in Syracuse and adjunct faculty at SUNYIT in the baccalaureate nursing program.

Mrs. Rogers is a Program Evaluator for the National League of Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) and was a contributor to the NLNAC 2013 Standards and Criteria for Associate Degree Programs. She has also been accepted as an Item Writer for future National Council Licensure Examinations for Registered Nurses. Mrs. Rogers resides in Brookfield with her husband, Ryan, and their children, Jonah and Emma.

St. Elizabeth Medical Group Nurse of Distinction:

Alicia Brown, RN has been employed at the St. Elizabeth Medical Group Clinton office since 2000. She was a graduate of the Mohawk Valley Community College of Nursing School in 1999. Mrs. Brown resides in Westmoreland with her husband, Bryant, and four-year-old son, Grant.

Named as St. Elizabeth Medical Center Nurse Tech of Distinction:

Valerie Fessia has been a Nurse Tech on nursing unit 3C since 2005. Mrs. Fessia is committed to the mission of the Medical Center in the care that she provides to her patients and their families. She strives for excellence everyday and acts as a preceptor for new employees and offers them encouragement along the way. Mrs. Fessia always displays a positive attitude. As an example of Mrs. Fessia’s commitment to the Medical Center, on March 10, 2013, she came to work for her 12-hour shift at nine months pregnant. Towards the end of her shift, she didn’t feel right and her husband, Frank, took her home briefly, then straight to the hospital where she quickly delivered their third daughter.

Named as St. Elizabeth Medical Center Ward Clerk of Distinction:

Justin Crossman has been employed at the Medical Center for five years. He worked as a ward clerk for three years on the Psychiatric Unit and currently works on the Neuro/Peds Unit. Mr. Crossman is a graduate of Syracuse University and obtained a Bachelor of Arts Degree in psychology and is currently attaining a Master’s Degree in Counseling from Union Institute and University.

Two nurses were also recognized who passed away within the last several months, for their dedication to the Medical Center and its patients. They were Judy Snizek, RN that worked at the hospital from 1985 to 2012 and Cindy Mills, RN employed from 2007 to 2013.

Pictured left to right front row are: Deborah Benson, Valerie Fessia, and Alicia Brown. Second row are: Doreen Rogers, Robin Westbrook and Justin Crossman.

St. Elizabeth Medical Center Foundation and F.X. Matt Brewery held the 5th Annual Prohibition Party, presented by Dr. Greg Orlando of Mohawk Valley Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.

The event was held on Friday, April 26 at the historic F.X. Matt Brewing Co. and raised over $50,000 to support the purchase of endobronchial ultrasound equipment. Over 500 guests heard music provided by Lawless, Strung Sideways, Crushing June, and Soundbarrier with Rocky Graziano and Mike Peek, while enjoying Saranac beverages, hors d’oeuvres and a silent auction.

“On behalf of the Medical Center, I thank the Matt family for partnering with the Foundation to host this one-of-a-kind event that the community looks forward to each year,” said Richard Ketcham, President and CEO of St. Elizabeth Medical Center. The Foundation also appreciates the support Sodexo, CML Photography, the musicians, and all event sponsors including Dr. Greg Orlando, Bank of Utica, Theresa Flemma, CFP, Vice President of M. Griffith Inc., Carbone Auto Group, IBEW Local 43/NECA Finger Lakes Chapter, Northland Communications, and Media Sponsors, Mix 102.5 and WKTV, with special thanks to First Source Federal Credit Union.

Pictured left to right are: Chastity Nicholson, Jason Nicholson, Mary Manna, Dr. Greg Orlando, Tim Madden, and Karen Madden

We are proud to announce that a private Lactation Room has been built for employees of the Medical Center.
The Mohawk Valley Perinatal Network, Inc.consulted on the room and also made a $100 donation toward its construction.

Assisting employees after childbirth and providing this type of dedicated space can have significant benefits to employers, including the following:

• Satisfied and loyal employees
• Retention of experienced employees
• Reduction in sick time taken by both moms and dads for children's illnesses
• Lower health care and insurance costs

The Mohawk Valley Perinatal Network, Inc. is a 501(c)3, not-for-profit organization that has been serving families in Herkimer and Oneida Counties since 1996.Their mission is to improve birth outcomes and maternal, child and family health and facilitate collaboration among providers and community organizations.

from left to right: Donna Ernst, Director of Human Resources, Diana Haldenwang, Executive Director of The Mohawk Valley Perinatal Network, Amanda Aiello RN, Nicole Plato, Laboratory

 The College of Nursing is pleased to announce the 2013 Weekday and Weekend Valedictorian and Salutatorian:

Weekday Valedictorian – Emma Wagner
Originally from St. Louis, MO (currently resides in Whitesboro, NY)
Married to Corey Wagner, M.D.
Daughter of Marsha Ray and the late Ricky Manwaring
Graduate of Mascoutah Community High School in Missouri, with a Bachelor’s of Science in Education from Illinois State University.
Mother of two children, Annalee; 7, Genavieve; 4

Weekend Valedictorian – Kelly Osborn
Of New Hartford, NY
Married to Darryl Osborn
Daughter of Steven and Sheryl Stressel
Graduate of New Hartford High School with a Bachelor’s of Science in Biology from SUNY Geneseo
Mother of three children, Derek; 10, Shawn; 8, Brandon; 6

Weekday Salutatorian – Sherri Freiberger
Of Whitesboro, NY
Married to Eric Freiberger, D.O.
Daughter of John and Ann Yost
Graduate of Carey, OH School District
Mother of two children, Sarah; 11, Katie; 9

Weekend Salutatorian – Stephanie Mazloom
Of Utica, NY
Daughter of Paul Sr. and Gina Mazloom
Graduate of Thomas R. Proctor High School, with a Bachelor’s of Science from Utica College of Syracuse University

Don and Al Carbone will receive the Humanitarian of the Year award from the St. Elizabeth Medical Center Foundation. Roger D. Moore, M.D., is the 2013 Excelsior Award recipient. Award winners, along with the Foundation’s most generous donors of the Franklin Club, Elizabethan Society, and St. Elizabeth Legacy Society will be recognized at this year’s annual Leadership and Recognition event on Tuesday, June 11 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. in the Multipurpose Room of St. Elizabeth College of Nursing. The awards ceremony will begin at 6:30 p.m.

Guest tickets are $30 each, and can be purchased by calling the Foundation Office at 734-4287 or online at www.stemc.org/foundation.

Don and Al Carbone are being honored for their years of commitment to the Medical Center and our patients. They have been an integral part of improving quality of care in our community by their involvement and support of the Mohawk Valley Heart Institute. They are well respected within our community and demonstrate their philanthropy by supporting numerous organizations, and encourage their employees to do something that makes a difference for others.

 Roger D. Moore, M.D. is being honored for his lifelong commitment to his patients, colleagues, and the Medical Center. He has served as President of the SEMC Medical Staff, and his contributions to the Family Medicine Residency Program extend back to the creation of the program. Dr. Moore is well respected by the patients he has cared for over the years, and has won numerous awards throughout his career. He has provided leadership and guidance as an educator to the many physicians who have graduated from the Residency Program.

Please consider honoring these community leaders and the Franklin Club, Elizabethan Society and St. Elizabeth Legacy Society members.

The Franklin Club, Elizabethan Society and St. Elizabeth Legacy Society are annual giving opportunities that help the Medical Center to keep up with the ongoing changes in healthcare, deliver cures, and care for our patients. The St. Elizabeth Legacy Society provides the opportunity to create a charitable legacy that will continue philanthropy beyond one’s lifetime, keeping a family name remembered and its generosity woven into the lives of others. There are many benefits associated with annual giving. Please call 734-4440 to become a member or to receive more information.

The St. Elizabeth College of Nursing will graduate 61 new nurses on Saturday, May 18, 2013. The 107th graduation will be held at the Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Utica, following a procession across Genesee Street from the College.

The Associate Degree in Nursing will be presented to Weekday and Weekend graduates by Mrs. Marian Kovatchitch, President of the College, and Mrs. Elaine F. Brown, Dean of Academic Affairs.

The St. Elizabeth College of Nursing pin will be presented by Mrs. Norma Emerson, MS, RN, and Mrs. Candace Kaufman, BS, RN, class advisors.

Mr. Richard Ketcham, FACHE, President and CEO of St. Elizabeth Medical Center, will welcome the graduates, faculty, staff and participants. The commencement address will be given by Reverend Paul Drobin, Newman Chaplain, Utica College and SUNYIT.

The College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, Inc., and registered by the New York State Education Department.

The Trauma Center at St. Elizabeth Medical Center has announced the recipient of the 2012 Annual Life-Saving Award, to an organization for its role in pre-hospital care to a gentleman who sustained injuries in a farm accident. The award was announced May 17 at the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Banquet at Hart’s Hill Inn. The victim was at the banquet to present the award along with Filomain Talerico, RN, BS, MS, Trauma and Emergency Preparedness Coordinator at St. Elizabeth Medical Center.

The victim was a gentleman who sustained life-threatening injuries when he was crushed beneath a piece of farm equipment. “The quick action and excellent care by the pre-hospital care providers helped save his life,” said John DeTraglia, M.D., Trauma Center Medical Director.

“This is a good illustration of trauma system teamwork,” Mrs. Talerico noted.

The award was presented to:
North Brookfield Fire Department
Waterville Area Volunteer Ambulance Corps

“We very much appreciate the daily efforts of those who provide Emergency Medical Services in our community,” said Richard H. Ketcham, FACHE, President/CEO of St. Elizabeth Medical Center. “During National EMS Week, May 19 – 25, we want to express our thanks for all that these vital workers do for patient care.”

Two St. Elizabeth Medical Center employees were honored at the EMS Banquet, as well. Phyllis Ellis, F.A.C.H.E., Vice President received the Midstate Deb Hart Award. Filomain Talerico, RN, BS, MS was honored for her life-time of dedication to Midstate Emergency Medical Services.

For many years, the Town of Webb oversaw and provided funds for healthcare for residents and visitors through the Town of Webb Health Center. In May 2012, St. Elizabeth Medical Center and its Medical Group and Town of Webb began working on a lease agreement to have the Medical Group resume the operation of the Health Center. After a review by the New York State Department of Health, the Medical Group officially began operation of the Town of Webb Health Care Center on Monday, May 13. This brings the number of St. Elizabeth Medical Groups offices to 14 that serve the community in locations throughout Oneida and Herkimer counties.

St. Elizabeth Medical Center and the Board of Directors of the Town of Webb Health Care Fund, Inc. held an open house on Wednesday, May 29 at View, followed by tours of the Health Center. Hazel Dellavia, President of the Town of Webb Health Care Fund, Inc. presented a check in the amount of $36,150 was used to upgrade the radiology equipment at the Health Center to convert it from an analog film processing system to a filmless, digital system. The upgrade has significantly improved the time in which x-rays are available for interpretation by a radiologist, as well as, the image quality.

Initial renovations at the Health Care Center have been completed, with office space separated to accommodate the Health Care Center, Dr. Rintrona, DDS, a private dental practice, and Home Aide Services of the Central Adirondacks (HASCA) all located at the same site. The renovations include increased work space for the nursing staff, two handicap-accessible rest rooms for patients and visitors, and improved heating and air-conditioning systems. Laboratory services are also available Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Jan Squadrito, Senior Program Officer of The Community Foundation of Herkimer & Oneida Counties, Inc. along with two board members presented a check in the amount of $59,930 for further renovations to the Health Center.

Thomas Socash, M.D. a longtime provider at that site continues to care for patients and St. Elizabeth Medical Center is continuing its efforts to recruit a second full-time physician to assist the needs of the residents of the Town of Webb.

“St. Elizabeth Medical Center appreciates the support of Town Supervisor Ted Riehle and the Town Board, Hazel Dellavia and the Town of Webb Health Care Fund, Inc. throughout this process,” said Robert C. Scholefield, Chief Operating Officer. “We look forward to a long and successful working relationship to serve the residents of the Town of Webb.”

The following awards were presented to the top students of the 2013 graduating class at the St. Elizabeth College of Nursing on May 18.

The St. Elizabeth Medical Staff Award was presented by Mr. Robert Scholefield, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of St. Elizabeth Medical Center, to Weekday Valedictorian, Emma Wagner of Whitesboro.

The St. Elizabeth Medical Center Award in Memory of Sister M. Regina was also presented by Mr. Robert Scholefield to Weekend Valedictorian, Kelly Osborn of Utica.

The Guild of St. Elizabeth Medical Center Award was presented by Mrs. Mary Napoli, Guild President, to Weekday Salutatorian Sherri Freiberger of Whitesboro, NY, and Weekend Salutatorian, Stephanie Mazloom of Utica.

The Alumni Association of the St. Elizabeth College of Nursing Award, given to the students with the third highest GPA, was presented by Ms. Suzanne Barnes, Alumni President, to Weekday Graduate, Briana Johnson of Whitesboro and Weekend Graduate, Hilary Hamlin of New Hartford.

The Alumni Association of the St. Elizabeth College of Nursing Clinical Award was also presented by Ms. Suzanne Barnes, Alumni President, to Weekday Graduate, Arianna Giruzzi of Latham and Weekend Graduate, Shalynn Cozza of Yorkville.

An Award in Memory of Nancy Lange and Rose M. Shields was given by their families and co-workers to a graduate who is caring, compassionate and demonstrates a commitment to nursing education. The 2013 recipient is AnnMarie Mateo, Weekend Graduate.

An Award in Memory of Jaden Zechariah Gioco, given to a graduate who demonstrated clinical excellence in the area of Obstetrics/Gynecology or Pediatrics was awarded to Patti Fikes, Weekday Graduate.

The Rose Shaffer Kolmer Memorial Award, presented to a graduate who persevered in the goal of becoming a St. Elizabeth Graduate, was awarded to Weekday Graduate, Jillian Doyle.

The Josephine Talerico Memorial Award, given in honor of Mrs. Josephine Talerico by her family, was awarded to Weekend Graduate, Cristy Gilman.

The Joann Nora Memorial Award, a graduate of St. Elizabeth's and a long time employee, is presented to a graduate to recognize her commitment and contributions to the St. Elizabeth College of Nursing program. This was awarded to Weekday Graduate, Sarah Jacopino.

An Award in Memory of Dr. John Hobika, who was an anesthesiologist at St. Elizabeth Medical Center for 30 years, is presented to a graduate who shows an authentic sense of compassion and whose calling is nursing. This year’s recipient is Weekend Graduate, Douglas Grinnell.

A first-time Award was given in Memory of Judy Snizek, who was a registered nurse in St. Elizabeth Medical Center’s Intensive Care Unit for 27 years. At the request of her family and co-workers, this award is presented to a graduate who exemplifies Judy’s spirit of caring and compassion for her patients. The 2013 recipient is Weekday Graduate, Gwenda Warner.

The Award given in Memory of Regina Guiney, a 1957 graduate of St. Elizabeth School of Nursing who was employed by Little Falls Hospital for 40 years and served as its Director of Nursing for 15 years. This is presented to a graduate who is dedicated and caring. This has been awarded to Weekday Graduate, Janice Costello.

The Fred W. Buttenschon Memorial Award is presented to Weekday Graduate, Andrew Bradley for his commitment and contributions to the St. Elizabeth Nursing Program.

An Award in Memory of George Boise and Mary and William Galvin is presented annually upon the recommendation of the family. This was awarded to Alexandria Tizzano.

An Award in Memory of Thomas L. Capraro is given by his son, Gerald, to Weekday Graduate, Andrea Brennan.

Medals of Honor (students with a GPA of 3.5 or higher) were presented by Mrs. Elaine F. Brown, Dean of Academic Affairs, to the following Weekday and Weekend Graduates:

Weekday

Emma Wagner, Valedictorian; Sherri Freiberger, Salutatorian; Briana Johnson, Lisa Thomas, Sarah Jacopino, Randi Fike, Marissa Brewster, Megan Putnam, Judith Durso, Marianne Carzo, Kyle Bodnar, Michael Paul, Janice Costello, Patti Fikes, and Bridget McMahon.

Weekend

Kelly Osborn, Valedictorian; Stephanie Mazloom, Salutatorian; Hilary Hamlin, Nicole Denton, Cristy Gilmam

St. Elizabeth Medical Center’s Trauma Center and Midstate Emergency Medical Services will hold their 27th Annual Trauma Symposium.

This is an educational event for healthcare providers to learn effective trauma treatment procedures and engage with top area professionals.

Friday, May 31, 2013
7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Radisson Hotel-Utica Centre
200 Genesee Street, Utica.
Get directions

For more information, contact St. Elizabeth Medical Center Trauma Coordinator Filomain Talerico, RN, MS, at 798-8127 or e-mail at ftaleric@stemc.org.

Eight Family Medicine doctors graduated Friday, June 28 from the St. Elizabeth Medical Center’s Family Medicine Residency, bringing the total number of physicians completing the nationally accredited, three-year postdoctoral training program to 237.  In addition, one physician will complete his GYN Surgical Fellowship with Dr. Prabhat Ahluwalia in July.

A graduation ceremony and dinner were held at the Radisson Hotel-Utica Centre. Several awards were presented, honoring graduates, residents and faculty members.  Satish Gedela, MD was the faculty guest speaker.  Speaking on behalf of the graduates were Jyoti Bharti, MD and Molly Schug, DO.

FAMILY MEDICINE RESIDENCY GRADUATES:

Nabin Adhikari, MD- A graduate of Manipal College of Medical Sciences, Nepal. Dr. Adhikari has accepted a Hospitalist Fellowship position at St. Elizabeth Medical Center. We look forward to working with Dr. Adhikari.

Jyoti Bharti, MD– A graduate of American University of Antigua. Dr. Bharti has accepted a Geriatric Fellowship position with the University of Nevada in Reno, Nevada.

Kareem Hamad, MD– A graduate of University of Alexandria, Egypt. Dr. Hamad will be working as a Hospitalist at St. Elizabeth Medical Center. We look forward to working with Dr. Hamad.

Vinit Jalandhara, MD A graduate of B.J. Medical College, India. Dr. Jalandhara will be working as an outpatient physician at Centra Prime Care in Danville, Virginia.

Safwat Nasrat, MD A graduate of the University of Asyut, Egypt. Dr. Nasrat plans to relocate to Altuna, Pennsylvania where he will join the hospitalist team at Altuna Medical Center.

Ruchi Parikh, MD A graduate of St. George’s University School of Medicine, Grenada, West Indies. Dr. Parikh will be practicing both inpatient and outpatient medicine at Belvidire OSF Medical Group in Belvidire, IL.

Molly Schug, DO– A graduate of Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Schug will be practicing outpatient medicine at St. Elizabeth Medical Center. We look forward to working with Dr. Schug.

Anuj Tewari, MD A graduate of American University of Antigua. Dr. Tewari anticipates that he will be working as a Hospitalist in Nevada.

GYN SURGICAL FELLOWSHIP GRADUATE:  Cory Wagner, MD

Residency Program Director, William Jorgensen, DO, and Mark Warfel, DO, Director of Medical Education and Medical Director of the St. Elizabeth Medical Group, awarded diplomas.  Fellowship Director Prabhat Ahluwalia, MD, presented the GYN Fellowship diploma.

AWARDS PRESENTED TO:

The Jeannette Schwartz-Anne Smith Award, given to a first-year resident for clinical achievement, was presented to Noha Abdelhamid, MD.

The Department Chief Award for Excellence in the first year was presented to Neil Shah, MD.

The Surgical Associates of Utica Award for the best knowledge and understanding of surgery during residency training was presented to Rashid Girshab, MD.

The Golden Apple Award for commitment to high standards of education and unsurpassed dedication in teaching residents was presented to Ashok Patel, MD.

The Diamond Scalpel Award for improving the surgical skills and knowledge of surgery of the residents was presented to Kenneth Werner, MD.

The Distinguished Faculty Award for commitment to high standards in clinical education and dedication to the St. Elizabeth Family Medicine Residency Program was presented to Family Medicine Physician, Brij Kumar, MD.

The Award for Excellence in Otorhinolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery was presented to Safwat Nasrat, MD.

The Pharmaceutical Excellence Award for the most judicious use of medications and collegial interaction with pharmacy staff during residency training was presented to Kareem Hamad, MD.

The Harold T. Golden Award for Excellence, given to a graduating resident for demonstration of a comprehensive interest and ability, concern for the family as a unit, willingness to be innovative, show commitment to patients, have sincerity, and be compassionate and involved, was presented to Molly Schug, DO.

The William J. Zombek, M.D. Memorial Award, given to the resident who exemplifies excellence in clinical performance, quality patient care, and overall positive mannerism to patients served, as well as positive relationships with peer and support personnel, was presented to Jyoti Bharti, MD.

The Roger D. Moore, M.D. Award, given to a graduating resident that demonstrates extraordinary integrity during his or her three-year residency, was presented to Vinit Jalandhara, MD.

The Residency Program presented the Sister Rose Vincent Gleason Award, for demonstrated consistent support and embracing the mission and vision of the Family Medicine Residency Program, to William

A. Jorgensen, DO. Chief residents for the 2013-2014 program year are: Sumesh Aggarwal, MD, Rensie DeVera, MD and William Gaetano, MD.

St. Elizabeth Medical Center welcomed 10 doctors to the area on Monday, June 24. The new residents began training in the three-year Family Medicine Residency Program.

William Jorgensen, DO, Residency Program Director, said the physicians would train and provide care at St. Elizabeth Medical Center, the Sister Rose Vincent Family Medicine Center on Hobart Street and the St. Elizabeth Women’s Health Center. They will also train at Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare and at Crouse Hospital in Syracuse.

With the addition of the 10 new residents joining the program, this brings the total number of doctors in the program to 30 for the upcoming academic year.

The Residency Program was started in 1975-76 to attract more doctors to practice family medicine. Since then, nearly half of the 229 physicians completing the program have settled in Upstate New York. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education and by the American Osteopathic Association, and is affiliated with SUNY Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine in Biddeford, Maine, and Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in Erie, Pennsylvania.

The new doctors are:

Manual Bulauitan, MD- He was born in New York, NY and graduated in June 2011 from Ross University School of Medicine, Dominica. Dr. Bulauitan’s hobbies and interests include staying active and playing sports. He played NCAA division one tennis at Boston University and also participated in basketball and football intramural sports teams in both college and medical school. He also enjoys scuba diving.

Shathabish Kariyanna, MD- He was born in Shimoga, India and graduated in March 2006 from Bangalore Medical College. Dr. “Bish” Kariyanna’s hobbies and interests include soccer, golf, cooking and watching movies.

Seneque Milien, MD- He was born in La Torue, Haiti and graduated from Ross University School of Medicine, Dominica. Dr. Milien’s hobbies include listening to and playing music, playing sports (especially soccer), moderate weight lifting, reading, traveling and cooking.

Vimmi Panchal, MD- She was born in Nadiad, India and graduated in May 2013 from American University of Antigua College of Medicine, Antigua. Dr. Panchal’s hobbies and interests include spending time with family, traveling, threading eyebrows, bridal make up, hair styling, henna art and dancing. She also enjoys biking and playing badminton.

Mary Philips, MD- She was born in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates and graduated in May 2011 from International American University, Saint Lucia. Dr. Philips’ hobbies and interests include 5k running events, studying the Catholic Bible for personal knowledge, reading literary works of Malayalam, performing and choreographing Bharatnatyan (classical South Indian dance), Indian folk dance, hip-hop and modern dance.

Mohammed Rizvi, MD- He was born in Karachi, Pakistan and graduated in March 2010 from Medical University of the Americas, Saint Kitts and Nevis. Dr. Rizvi’s hobbies and interests include basketball, weightlifting, drawing, music and volunteering.

Donish Siddiqi, MD- He was born in Hicksville, NY and graduated in May 2013 from American University of Antigua College of Medicine, Antigua. Dr. Siddiqi is a life-long percussionist and amateur guitarist. He also enjoys hiking, camping, watching and playing sports.

Troy Slover, MD- He was born in Santa Maria, CA and graduated from Spartan Health Sciences University, Saint Lucia. Dr. Slover’s hobbies and interests include working out, playing guitar, writing music, art, history, travel and playing sports (especially soccer).

Martin Tolentino, MD- He was born in Manila, Philippines and graduated in April 2001 from University of the East/Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center, Philippines. Dr. Tolentino’s hobbies and interests include painting, playing the guitar and fishing.

Andy Tran, MD- He was born in Ba Ria, Vietnam and graduated in March 2011 from Ross University School of Medicine, Dominica. Dr. Tran’s hobbies and interests include exploring the world, working out, reading classic fiction and learning foreign languages.

Twenty students that will be entering 8th and 9th grade this fall had an opportunity to spend two days in the world of hospital healthcare this summer. M.A.S.H. Camp was held on June 25th and June 26th at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center.

M.A.S.H. stands for Medical Academy of Science and Health. This two-day camp is sponsored by St. Elizabeth Medical Center, the Central New York Area Health Education Center (CNYAHEC) and Excellus BlueCross BlueShield. The three organizations have partnered on this initiative to address the mutual goal of alleviating the shortage of health professionals by encouraging young people to explore health careers.

A variety of careers were highlighted during M.A.S.H. Camp through fun, hands-on workshops for students, including lots of attention from dedicated health professionals. All campers received hospital scrubs to wear each day at camp, breakfast and lunch, a tee shirt, and education materials.

Twelve new Radiologic Technologists received diplomas on Friday, June 21 at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center School of Radiography’s 49th annual commencement exercises. The ceremonies began at 6:30 p.m. in the St. Elizabeth College of Nursing building. Commencement speaker was Ms. Theresa Brindisi, R.T. (R)(M). The graduate address was presented by Samantha Kubler, Valedictorian.

Graduates are: Alexandria Alsante, Tricia Cleveland, Laurene Hillman, Liza Kivo, Samantha Kubler, Maria Lewis, Olivia Opperman, Piseth Peou, Justin Rasmussen, Theresa Robertelli, Sara Snell and Alyssa Tennyson.

Scholastic Achievement Awards were presented by Dr. Douglas Gleasman, Program Director, for Highest Scholastic Achievement to Samantha Kubler and for Second-Highest Scholastic Achievement to Liza Kivo.

Justin Rasmussen received the JRCERT Certificate of Excellence for outstanding student performance in Radiological Sciences. Laurene Hillman received the Outstanding Student Technologist Award. The Gerald Segal, M.D. Graduate Award was presented to Sara Snell. The Class of 2013 presented Mark Kohlbrenner, Clinical Instructor at Rome Memorial Hospital, with the Outstanding Staff Technologist Award. The JRCERT Certificate of Excellence for outstanding clinical instructor was awarded to Matthew King, R.T. (R).

Ten freshmen students moved up to senior status and received pins. They are: Heather Bennett, Elizabeth Buerkle, Kelsey Cacciatori, Marie Campese, Jennifer Cashmer, John Czebieniak, Kaitlyn Davidson, Tayla Giacovelli, Christopher Grosso, Samantha Guske, Jillian Jones, Carrie Lohr and Jeremy Raciti.

The Gerald Segal, M.D. Scholarship Award from Mohawk Valley Imaging, PC went to senior student Kaitlyn Davidson.

The Mary Louise Ecret Scholarship Award went to senior Christopher Grosso.

The Agnes G. Walsh Memorial Award went to senior Elizabeth Buerkle.

Radiologist Raphael J. Alcuri, M.D., Medical Director of the school, presided over the program and Richard Ketcham, Medical Center President/CEO, presented diplomas. Class pins were awarded to the graduates by Roberta Brockway, M.S., R.T., Clinical Coordinator and Academic Instructor. Senior students received pins from Matthew King, R.T. (R) , Clinical/Didactic Instructor.

Pictured left to right front row are: Laurene Hillman, Sara Snell, Alexandria Alsante, Liza Kivo, Samantha Kubler and Maria Lewis. Back row are: Alyssa Tennyson, Justin Rasmussen, Tricia Cleveland, Olivia Opperman, Theresa Robertelli and Piseth Peou.

St. Elizabeth Medical Center announced today that a staff reduction is being implemented to ensure the hospital’s long-term sustainability. The delivery of safe, high-quality patient care remains the primary focus and patient care will not be affected.

St. Elizabeth currently employs 1,951 people. Ten employees were laid off and approximately 40 vacant positions will be eliminated. The employees worked in all areas of the Medical Center and ranged from executive leadership to administrative to those with direct-care responsibilities.

Many individuals will be offered the opportunity to apply for any vacant position for which they qualify. Due to a prolonged decrease in hospital inpatients, one medical/surgical unit, 2D, was closed effective June 24.

“These are extremely difficult decisions in challenging economic times,” said Richard Ketcham, President/CEO. “We have a responsibility and an obligation to the community we serve, the Medical Center and its Board of Trustees to ensure the long-term fiscal health of the organization, while continuing to meet our mission. This further demonstrates the importance of success in our affiliation plans with Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare, which we are still pursuing diligently.”

Numerous factors led to the reduction of the Medical Center’s workforce including the decreased reimbursement to hospitals by New York State Medicaid over multiple years. In addition, Medicare reimbursements have not kept pace with the high cost of care.

St. Elizabeth has experienced over $11 million of New York State Medicaid cuts in the past three years. New York State’s ongoing budget crisis presents immense financial challenges to patient-care providers, who continue to receive cuts to their payments. “We will continue to work with our elected officials on achieving Medicaid reform that includes the redesign of the Medicaid system,” Mr. Ketcham said.

Vice President Human Resources Patrick Buckley added, “Administration is aware that this layoff affects not only the Medical Center organization, but individuals and families. We understand that valued employees and others are affected in this process. The Human Resources Department is currently working to support our employees and departments.”