NEWS

ST. ELIZABETH MEDICAL CENTER

2209 GENESEE STREET

UTICA, NEW YORK 13501

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Sandra Fentiman, Manager

Marketing and Public Relations

(315) 798-8195

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 11, 2011 HEADSHOTS INCLUDED

ST. ELIZABETH COLLEGE OF NURSING NAMES TOP 2011 GRADUATES

UTICA -- The St. Elizabeth College of Nursing is pleased to announce that three students have tied for the highest GPA in the Weekday Program.

Weekday Valedictorian – Thomas Fielder

 Of New Hartford, NY

 Son of Duane and Gail Fielder

 Graduate of New Hartford High School, with an Associate of Arts Degree from Munson Williams Proctor Arts Institute. Thomas also holds Bachelor of Fine Arts and Master of Fine Arts degrees from SUNY New Paltz.

 Plans to work for St. Elizabeth Medical Center following graduation

Weekday Valedictorian – Michelle Miller

 Of Boonville, NY

 Daughter of Arnold and Carol Miller

 Graduate of Adirondack Central School, with a Bachelor of Arts Degree from St. John Fisher College

 Plans to work for St. Elizabeth Medical Center following graduation

Weekday Valedictorian – Gregory Parker

 Of Whitesboro, NY

 Son of Gary and Geraldine Parker

 Graduate of Whitesboro High School, with a Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Albany

 Plans to pursue a career in Nursing following graduation

Weekend Valedictorian – Susan Menendez

 Of Burlington Flats, NY

 Daughter of Kevin and Nan Kelly

 Graduate of Glenelg High School (Glenelg, MD), with an Animal Science Degree from Virginia Tech

 Mother of two children: Daniel, 17; Kelly, 15; Cassie, 11

 Plans to work at Bassett Medical Center following graduation

-more-

ST. ELIZABETH COLLEGE OF NURSING VAL/SAL/Page 2

Weekday Salutatorian – Donna Croke

 Of Vernon Center, NY

 Married to Steven Croke

 Graduate of Morrisville State College with a Bachelor of Technology Degree in Equine Science

 Mother of two children: Jacob, 25, and Katie, 22

 Plans to work for St. Elizabeth Medical Center following graduation

Weekend Salutatorian – Glenda Whittaker

 Of Utica, NY

 Married to Brad Whittaker

 Daughter of Glenda D. and the late John Jerominek

 Graduate of Proctor Senior High School, with an Associate’s Degree from Mohawk Valley Community College

 Mother of two children: Sarah, 18; and James, 7

 Plans to work for St. Elizabeth Medical Center in acute care following graduation

Caitlin McCann
Communications Specialist
(315) 624-5433
cmccann@mvnhealth.com                       

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  June 5, 2014

19^th Annual SEMC Foundation Golf Tournament and drawing to raise funds for updates

UTICA – St. Elizabeth Medical Center Foundation will hold the 19^th Annual Golf Tournament on Monday, July 14 at the Yahnundasis Golf Club. Over 220 golfers will come together to raise money for updates to patient rooms and improving patient, visitor and employee security by installing a badge swipe system limiting access points into the Medical Center.

A golf tournament drawing will take place on the evening of the event. These tickets cost $20 each or $50 for three tickets. This year’s prizes are: NYC Weekend Escape including Hudson River Condo accommodations and New York Yankee tickets; tickets to a New York Giants home game and a 50-inch LED HDTV Hisense TV; box seats to a Red Sox home game and an overnight stay at Hotel Commonwealth; Saratoga Race Course and dining package; NASCAR Watkins Glen all-access trip; Family Fun Pack including admission to Enchanted Forest Water Safari, Six Flags Park tickets, and a Nice N Easy gas card; and a 32-inch Samsung LCD television.

To view a complete list of this year’s prizes or purchase tickets online, please visit www.stemc.org/foundation. Tickets are also available at the Foundation Office, Marian Medical Building, 2209 Genesee Street, Utica, NY or by calling (315) 734-4287.

The Foundation appreciates support of all event sponsors including Presenting Sponsor, St. Elizabeth Health Support Services, and Social Sponsors, CNY Cardiology, ConMed Corporation, IBEW Local 43/NECA Finger Lakes Chapter and Medtronic. The Foundation also thanks all those who donated items for the drawing.

The St. Elizabeth Medical Center Foundation provides support – financial, philosophical and social – so that the Medical Center may continue to provide for the medical needs of the community, regardless of race, national origin, creed or ability to pay.  For information, or to find out how to become a part of Foundation events, please call (315) 734-4287 or visit www.stemc.org/foundation. 

###
14-33

Midstate Regional Emergency Medical Services Council honored 11 local providers and agencies on Friday, May 23, 2014, at their annual awards ceremony. The event, held at Hart’s Hill Inn., was attended by emergency medical services (EMS) representatives from Oneida, Herkimer and Madison counties.

Awards were presented in the following categories:

• EMS Youth Provider of the Year – Sean Krun, Frankfort Ambulance – Sean is enrolled in the HCCC / Faxton St. Luke’s Paramedic Program, he participates in the Frankfort Fire Dept “bunk-in” program where he volunteers his time to Frankfort and in turn they provide living quarters for the Paramedic Student. Sean is a very active participant in both Fire and EMS at Frankfort and will continue one more year in this program.
• Harriet Weber Leadership Award – Bob Sturdevant, Madison County, Midstate REMSCO – Bob is the Madison County EMS Coordinator and has been a member of the Midstate REMSCO for years. He has guided Madison County EMS throughout the years and is the EMS Course Sponsor for Madison County Search and Rescue, has been an active member of the Greater Lenox Ambulance Service and serves on the Board of Directors.
• ALS Provider of the Year – John Walter, Prospect Ambulance – John has been volunteering with Prospect Ambulance for many years. Even before he was a member, he would volunteer to assist with drills and training sessions. John recently completed the Critical Care Course and provides dedicated EMS to the Prospect Ambulance and Remsen Fire Department.
• EMS Agency of the Year – Frankfort Fire Department Ambulance – It is difficult to maintain rigid state and regional requirements and balance the needs of the volunteers in rural New York. The Frankfort Fire Department Ambulance “broke the mold” and developed a partnership with the nearby Paramedic Program. This past year, with the involvement of the EMS students and other incentives, the Frankfort Fire Department has become a model for EMS Agencies.
• Safety and Quality Award – Cazenovia Fire Department – The Cazenovia Fire Department was awarded the Quality and Safety Award based on the commitment it placed on “doing it right”. Never satisfied, this Department constantly looks for new and innovative techniques and procedures. These techniques were tested in October of last year with a complicated and dangerous rescue that was accomplished successfully by the members. Their dedication and hard work, combined with teamwork, assisted in saving the life of a seriously injured young man.
• EMS Educator of the Year – Leslie Myers – A Faxton St. Luke’s EMS Instructor, Leslie was recognized for keeping it moving. A 25+ year instructor, she assisted FSL develop the first online recertification program in NYS. Leslie has a remarkable 97% pass rate and combines life and textbook in a way that makes her students understand the what and why of EMS. Leslie has trained hundreds of EMS providers and her influence has touched thousands of lives.
• Communications Specialist of the Year – Ryan Ammann - Dedicated, friendly and driven are the words used to describe Ryan, a Madison County 911 communicator. Ryan is able to keep his cool regardless of the situation and who is involved. Ryan is recognized for going above and beyond in difficult situations. Frequently taking the role as a unsung hero, Ryan has influenced and made the difference in more lives than he knows.
• EMS RN of Distinction – Stephanie Oldick – Stephanie, a FSL Emergency Department RN, is described as a friendly face and helpful hand when things are tough. Stephanie is quick with a kind word and an open ear to EMS providers and her ED patients. EMS providers are always happy to see Stephanie when delivering patients to the ED.
• EMS Physician of Excellence – John Rubin – Dr. Rubin is the “EMS Doc”, a gifted physician that takes the time to educate and train EMS Providers of all levels. Dr. Rubin is the FSL EMS Education Medical Director, frequently showing up and assisting in paramedic and EMT skill labs, explaining complicated theories and demonstrating live-saving skills. Dr. Rubin is the go-to-Doc for the Midstate EMS Providers.
• Commissioner of Health Award – W.J. Taylor – Joe Taylor is a charter Midstate REMSCO member working from day one to improve the pre-hospital care provided in Midstate. Joe a practicing Paramedic and NYS Regional Faculty is known as the Dean of EMS in Midstate. Joe has created an “advanced standing” paramedic program that allows experienced providers the additional education and training to become NYS certified Paramedics.
• Hart Award – Herkimer County Emergency Services – Deb Hart was a REMSCO member and EMS Advocate in the 80s and 90s. Her tireless dedication and drive earned Deb the respect and admiration of the Regions EMS Providers. This award is given in Deb’s memory each year to a person or group that demonstrates those same characteristics. During 2013, Herkimer County Emergency Services demonstrated to the region and state what emergency services can and does do. An active shooter that was mobile, a house fire with an armed man inside, not one but two “one hundred-year floods” all taxed and pushed Herkimer County Emergency Services. And during each of these events and the hundreds of others Herkimer County maintained and excelled in both these incidents and the day-to-day operations of emergency services. 

##

Sandra Fentiman                                                                       
Manager, Marketing and Public Relations                        
St. Elizabeth Medical Center                                            
(315) 798-8195                                                                
sfentiman@stemc.org                                                                               

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  June 12, 2014

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  June 23, 2014

(Photo identification: Pictured left to right front row are: Elizabeth Buerkle, Christopher Grosso, John Czebieniak II, Jeremy Raciti and Jennifer Polce.  Back row: Tayla Giacovelli, Heather Wratten, Samantha Guske, Marie Campese, Kelsey Cacciatori, Carrie Lohr, Jillian Jones and Kaitlyn Davidson.) 

UTICA -- Thirteen new Radiologic Technologists received diplomas on Friday, June 20 at the St. Elizabeth Medical Center School of Radiography’s 50th annual commencement exercises.  In addition, two of the graduates received Associate Degrees in Radiologic Technology from Herkimer County Community College and five other graduates received similar degrees from Mohawk Valley Community College.   

The ceremonies began at 6:30 p.m. in the St. Elizabeth College of Nursing building.  Commencement speaker was Theresa Brindisi, R.T. (R) (M), Academic and Clinical Instructor.  The graduate address was presented by Kaitlyn Davidson, Valedictorian. 

Graduates are:      

• Elizabeth Buerkle of Syracuse 
• Kelsey Cacciatori of Rome 
• Marie Campese of Clinton 
• John Czebieniak II of Utica 
• Kaitlyn Davidson of Rome 
• Tayla Giacovelli of Frankfort 
• Christopher Grosso of Syracuse 
• Samantha Guske of West Winfield 
• Jillian Jones of Deerfield 
• Carrie Lohr of Durhamville 
• Jennifer Polce of Schuyler 
• Jeremy Raciti of Frankfort 
• Heather Wratten of Richfield Springs       

Scholastic Achievement Awards were presented by Raphael J. Alcuri, M.D., School Medical Director and Chief Radiologist/Imaging Department, for Highest Scholastic Achievement to Kaitlyn Davidson and for Second-Highest Scholastic Achievement to Jillian Jones. 

Jillian Jones received the JRCERT Certificate of Excellence and Outstanding Graduating Radiographer Award for outstanding student performance in Radiological Sciences, presented by Robert Tan, R.T. (R), Department Director. Samantha Guski received the Gerald Segal, M.D. Graduate Award from Mohawk Valley Imaging, PC.  The Agnes G. Walsh Award was presented to John Czebieniak and Heather Wratten received the Mary Louise Ecret Memorial Award.   

School Educational Director Brian Fortuna, M.S., R.T. (R) presided over the program and Robert Scholefield, Mohawk Valley Health System Senior Vice President of Operations, conferred the diplomas.  Class pins were awarded to the graduates by Matthew King and Theresa Brindisi, Didactic and Clinical Instructors. 

Historical background: 

In 1945, Agnes Walsh was the first radiologic technologist to train on the job at St. Elizabeth Medical Center. Ms. Walsh went on to train additional radiologic technologists with the assistance of Dr. Gerald Segal and Nancy Mitchell. The late Sister Rose Vincent Gleason, past president/CEO of St. Elizabeth Medical Center, graduated from the School of Radiography in 1951 and went on to teach anatomy and physiology to the radiography students. 

In 1954, Dr. Segal became the chief radiologist and in 1964 he and Ms. Walsh began the first formal School of Radiography. It was through Dr. Segal's vision and desire for perfection that an educational program was established. 

In 1970, Mary Louise Ecret was appointed director of the school. At that time, Judith Foster assisted Ms. Ecret instructing the students. Ms. Ecret continued as director until her retirement in 2002, at which time Janice Lutz became the program director. (The director position was then held by Dr. Douglas Gleasman and lastly by present director, Brian Fortuna.)  Dr. Raphael Alcuri, Radiology Department chairman, is the medical director of the School of Radiography. 

For many years, Roberta Brockway was the program's clinical coordinator, along with Kathleen Jones, who was a clinical instructor. The legacy of the school will be the high standards the students are required to meet. A grade of 85 percent is required for each course throughout the two-year program, as well as in students’ clinical performance.

It has been the school's ultimate goal to train technically competent students who deliver compassionate and quality patient care. But even more than the training, it is the lifelong friendships that have developed, the many laughs that have been shared and all the amazing memories that have been made.   

Many changes have taken place throughout the years, involving uniforms, curriculum and digital imaging. Some staff members are old enough to remember performing x-rays during a cholangiogram in surgery, utilizing a portable machine instead of a C-arm.  They are thankful for their training that prepared them to work anywhere in the country, performing safe and optimum radiologic images. 

As vast as the miles that separate the graduates of this school, it is the strong bonds that were formed that keep people united.   

The School of Radiography program will be incorporated into the current program now available at Mohawk Valley Community College.  Visit the MVCC website for information at www.mvcc.edu/nursing/allied-health/radiologic-technology-degree. 

###

Sandra Fentiman 
Manager, Marketing and Public Relations
St. Elizabeth Medical Center
(315) 798-8195
sfentiman@stemc.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 26

UTICA -- St. Elizabeth Medical Center welcomed 10doctors to the area on Wednesday, June 18. The new residents began training in its Family Medicine Residency Program.

Mark E. Warfel, DO, Residency Program Director, said the physicians will train and provide care at St. Elizabeth Medical Center, the Sister Rose Vincent Family Medicine Center on Hobart Street, St. Elizabeth Women’s Health Center and at Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare as affiliates of Mohawk Valley Health System.

The Family Medicine Residency has 30 residents in training, 10 in each year of the three-year program.

The Residency Program was started in 1975-76 to fill the need for primary care physicians in the Central New York State region. Nearly half of the 247family 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 the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine in Biddeford, Maine; Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in Erie, PA and SUNY Upstate Medical University in Syracuse.

The new doctors are:

Tanseem Abouelseoud, MD - She was born in Alexandria, Egypt and graduated from University of Alexandria Faculty of Medicine, Egypt. She is fluent in Arabic. Dr. Abouelseoud’s hobbies include swimming, snorkeling, cooking and working out.

David Auh, MD - He was born in Seoul, Korea and graduated from American University of Antigua College of Medicine. Dr. Auh is fluent in Korean. His hobbies include photography, golfing and bowling.

Nay Linn Aung, MD - He was born in Yangon, Myanmar and graduated from University of Medicine 1, Myanmar. Dr. Aung is fluent in Burmese. Dr. Aung’s hobbies and interests include playing badminton, reading, walking and interfaith studies and activities.

Amany Bashir, MD - She was born in Egypt and graduated from Xavier University School of Medicine, Oranjestad, Aruba. Dr. Bashir is fluent in Arabic. Her hobbies and interests include cooking and baking authentic Egyptian and Middle Eastern food, and Zumba.

Michael Parslow, DO - He was born in Amsterdam, NY and graduated from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in Erie, PA. Dr. Parslow currently lives in Utica. His hobbies include spending time with his wife and two children, fishing, boating, snowboarding and other outdoor activities.

Janki Patel, MD - She was born in Ahmedabad, India and graduated from American University of Antigua College of Medicine, Antigua. Dr. Patel is fluent in Hindi and Gujarati. Her hobbies and interests include reading, watching the LA Lakers, cross-stitching and scrap-booking.

Taylen Peaden, DO - He was born in Pensacola, FL and graduated from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in Erie, PA. He currently lives in Little Falls. Dr. Peaden’s interests include traveling, kayaking, spending time with his dogs and friends and browsing flea markets.

Saloni Rana, MD - She was born in Navsari, India and graduated from Medical University of the Americas (Nevis), Saint Kitts and Nevis. Dr. Rana is fluent in Gujarati and Hindi. Her hobbies include reading, cooking, gardening, watching movies and playing tennis.

Vishal Vakani, MD - He was born in Flushing, NY and graduated from American University of Antigua College of Medicine, Antigua. Dr. Vakani is fluent in Gujarati and knows some Hindi. His interests include cars and reading about new electronics and technology. He also likes to sketch and draw.

Keenon White, MD - He was born in Charleston, SC and graduated from Ross University School of Medicine, Dominica. Dr. White’s hobbies include astronomy and physics. He also likes to go to the gym and play basketball.

###

Sandra Fentiman 
Manager, Marketing and Public Relations
St. Elizabeth Medical Center
(315) 798-8195
sfentiman@stemc.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  June 26, 2014

HEADSHOT INCLUDED

UTICA – Mohawk Valley Health System (MVHS) and Adirondack Community Physicians (ACP) welcome Lwin Win, MD, Internist, to the New Hartford Medical Office.

Dr. Win is board certified in Internal Medicine and has worked as a hospitalist at Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare since 2009. He earned his medical degree from the Institute of Medicine in Yangon, Myanmar and completed his residency in Internal Medicine at Wyckoff Heights Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York. He earned his master’s degree in Health Education from Western
Illinois University. 

Dr. Win joins the office of Drs. Clark, Kalil, Kokot and Krause and is accepting new patients. He can be reached at the ACP New Hartford Medical Office, Crossroads Plaza, 8411 Seneca Turnpike, New Hartford at 315.624.8500. 

###

Sandra Fentiman 
Manager, Marketing and Public Relations
St. Elizabeth Medical Center
(315) 798-8195
sfentiman@stemc.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 26, 2014

(Photo cutline:  Two M.A.S.H. Camp students sit in a helicopter on the landing pad at St. Elizabeth Medical Center during their first day observing healthcare careers.) 

UTICA – Eleven students that will be entering 8th and 9th grade this fall are having an opportunity to spend two days in the world of hospital healthcare this summer.  M.A.S.H. Camp was held on June 24 and June 25 at 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 and the Central New York Area Health Education Center (CNYAHEC).  The organizations have been partners on this initiative to address the mutual goal of alleviating the shortage of health professionals by encouraging young people to explore health careers. 

“St. Elizabeth Medical Center has been offering M.A.S.H. Camp annually since 2006.  This exciting program affords students a fun, interactive way in which to explore the many opportunities and challenges faced by today’s healthcare professionals,” said Samantha Rouillier, Admissions Coordinator at St. Elizabeth College of Nursing and 2014 M.A.S.H. Camp Coordinator. 

A variety of careers were highlighted during M.A.S.H. Camp through hands-on workshops for students, including much attention from professional staff members. All campers received hospital scrubs to wear each day at camp, breakfast and lunch and educational materials. 

###

Sandra Fentiman 
Manager, Marketing and Public Relations
St. Elizabeth Medical Center
(315) 798-8195
sfentiman@stemc.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  July 1, 2014

UTICA – The City’s Fourth of July parade will begin at Our Lady of Lourdes Church and proceed north to the Memorial Parkway. Parade staging will begin at 9:30 a.m. and the parade itself will begin at 11 a.m. Genesee Street will close to traffic for the parade at 11 a.m. until approximately 12 noon.

During that time, and for the duration of the parade, ambulances and other emergency vehicles may enter the St. Elizabeth Medical Center (SEMC) campus via Ballantyne Brae.

SEMC employees and medical staff may use the Ballantyne Brae entrance next to Parking Lot C, afterapproaching from Oneida Street. If stopped by police or security, staff members should identify themselves as an employee or member of the medical staff and show their name badges.

###

Sandra Fentiman 
Manager, Marketing and Public Relations
St. Elizabeth Medical Center
(315) 798-8195
sfentiman@stemc.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  June 30, 2014

(Photo identification:  Graduates of the Family Medicine Residency are, from left to right: William Gaetano MD, MPH; Mallory Sullivan, DO; Emir Hodzic, MD; James Cooney, MD;  Sumesh Aggarwal, MD; Rensie Chiara Rigor-De Vera, MD; Vijay Vanumu, MD; Gazala Dave, MD; Naseem Paruk, MD and Mehdi Shamloo, MD.)

UTICA -- Ten physicians graduated Friday, June 27 from the St. Elizabeth Medical Center’s Family Medicine Residency, bringing the total number of Family Physicians completing the nationally accredited, three-year, postdoctoral training program to 247.  The residency program was established in 1975 and expanded in 1995 when it relocated to its current location on 120 Hobart Street, Utica.  Historically, 50 percent of the program’s graduates have stayed to work in the Upstate New York region to practice, adding to the primary care work force. In addition, one obstetrician gynecologist will complete the American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopic Gynecologist Minimally Invasive Surgical Fellowship sponsored by St Elizabeth under the direction of Prabhat Ahluwalia, MD in July.   

A graduation ceremony and dinner were held at the Yahnundasis Golf Club.  Several awards were presented, honoring graduates, residents and faculty members.  Speaking on behalf of the graduates was Gazala Dave, MD.

FAMILY MEDICINE RESIDENCY GRADUATES: 

Sumesh Aggarwal, MD
A graduate of Crimer Medical Institute, Ukraine.  Dr. Aggarwal will be working as a hospitalist at Methodist Sugar Land Hospital in Sugarland, Texas.

James Cooney, MD
A graduate of Ross University School of Medicine, Dominica. Dr. Cooney will be working at the Premier Care Urgent Care in Syosset, New York.

Gazala Dave, MD
A graduate of Terna Medical College, India.  Dr. Dave will be working as a hospitalist at Valley Hospital in Ridgewood, New Jersey.

Rensie De Vera, MD
A graduate of the University of Santo Tomas Philippines.  Dr. De Vera will be practicing traditional outpatient medicine at Peace Health Medical Group in Eugene, Oregon.

William Gaetano, MD
A graduate of St. George’s University School of Medicine, Grenada, West Indies.  Dr. Gaetano will be staying in Utica as an attending physician in St. Elizabeth Medical Center’s Emergency Medicine Department.  We look forward to working with Dr. Gaetano.

Emir Hodzic, MD
A graduate of St. George’s University School of Medicine, Grenada, West Indies.  Dr. Hodzic will be staying in the area as one of St. Elizabeth Medical Group’s Family Medicine physicians at the Town of Webb Health Center in Old Forge, New York.  We look forward to working with Dr. Hodzic.

Naseem Paruk, MD
A graduate of Medical University of the Americas, Nevis, West Indies.  Dr. Paruk anticipates that he will be working as a hospitalist.

Mehdi Shamloo, MD
A graduate of Saba University School of Medicine, Dutch Caribbean.  Dr. Shamloo plans on practicing outpatient medicine at Warden Wood Health Center in Toronto, Canada.

Mallory Sullivan, DO 
A graduate of New York College of Osteopathic Medicine of New York Institute of Technology, New York.  Dr. Sullivan will be staying in the area as one of St. Elizabeth Medical Group’s Family Medicine physicians in Waterville, New York.  We look forward to working with Dr. Sullivan. 

Vijay Vanumu, MD
A graduate of Rangaraya Medical College, India.  Dr. Vanumu plans to practice traditional outpatient medicine at Allina Health in St. Paul, Minnesota.

AAGL GYN SURGICAL FELLOWSHIP GRADUATE:  Jyothi Chetiyaar, MD 

Residency Program Director, Mark Warfel, DO and Associate Program Director, Francis Chabot, MD presented awards.  Fellowship Director Prabhat Ahluwalia, MD presented the Fellowship in Minimally Invasive Surgery in Gynecology diploma.

AWARDS PRESENTED:

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

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

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

The Golden Apple Award for commitment to high standards of education and unsurpassed dedication in teaching residents was presented to Hung Nguyen, 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, Satish Gedela, MD.

The Award for Excellence in ENT is awarded to the resident with the best knowledge and understanding of otorhinolaryngology and head and neck surgery during residency training.  This award was presented to William Gaetano, 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 Rensie De Vera, MD.

The William J. Zombek, MD Memorial Awardwas 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 Mallory Sullivan, DO.

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

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 Robert C. Scholefield, RN, MS, Senior Vice President of Operations, Mohawk Valley Health System.

Chief residents for the 2014-2015 program year are: Paul Gambino, MD and Noha Abdelhamid, MD.

###

Sandra Fentiman 
Manager, Marketing and Public Relations
St. Elizabeth Medical Center
(315) 798-8195
sfentiman@stemc.org

The St. Elizabeth Medical Center Foundation announces a new member to serve on its Board of Directors:

James P. McCarthy

James P. McCarthy is president of Northland Communications in Utica, New York. He received his bachelor’s degree from Siena College in Loudonville, New York, and his master’s degree in Telecommunications from SUNYIT Utica/Rome in Marcy, New York.

McCarthy currently serves on the March of Dimes and SUNYIT Foundation Boards and previously served as a member of the Excellus Regional Advisory Board.

For Immediate Release: July 10, 2014

Contact:
Caitlin McCann
Communications Specialist
(315) 624-5433
cmccann@mvnhealth.com

MEDIA ADVISORY/PHOTO OPPORTUNITY 

St. Elizabeth Medical Center Foundation’s 19^th Annual Golf Tournament

Monday, July 14, 2014

What:              St. Elizabeth Medical Center (SEMC) Foundation’s 19^th Annual Golf Tournament

When:              Monday, July 14, 2014. Morning golfers begin at 7:15am and afternoon golfers begin at 1pm.

Where:             Yahnundasis Golf Club, 8639 Seneca Turnpike, New Hartford, NY 13413

Details:            Proceeds from this year’s tournament will be used to update patient care rooms at SEMC as well as increase patient and employee safety. 

Mike Hopkins, Syracuse University’s assistant basketball coach, will participate in the “Beat the Celebrity/Pro Contest” during the morning round. He will also perform the ceremonial tee off at 7:15am.

Contact:          For more information, please call Andrea LaGatta at (315) 734-4440 before the event or (315) 941-8943 during the event.

For Immediate Release: July 9, 2014

UTICA – St. Elizabeth Medical Center provides a Household Sharps Disposal Program for people who want to dispose of sharp medical instruments such as insulin hypodermic needles.

The program is open to individuals from private residences, not businesses.

Sharp instruments, packed in a puncture-proof container and clearly marked as “sharps,” may be brought to the Hospital Services Department, located in the basement of the Medical Center, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. (excluding holidays).

For more information, contact Hospital Services at (315) 798-8249.

###

Sandra Fentiman 
Manager, Marketing and Public Relations
St. Elizabeth Medical Center
(315) 798-8195
sfentiman@stemc.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  August 14, 2014   

UTICA – Jerry Plows has been named Service Excellence and Employee Engagement Coordinator for Mohawk Valley Health System (MVHS). In this new role, Plows is responsible for coordinating programs and strategies to build and maintain positive patient experiences and employee engagement at MVHS. He will also implement and oversee all employee reward and recognition programs and coordinate employee activities such as picnics, parties and celebrations.

Prior to his new position, Plows was the Relationship-Based Care Coordinator and assistant director of Volunteer Services and Guest Relations for Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare (FSLH). He is a Certified Health Unit Coordinator and a recipient of the FSLH Spirit of Caring Award.

###

Sandra Fentiman 
Manager, Marketing and Public Relations
St. Elizabeth Medical Center
(315) 798-8195
sfentiman@stemc.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  August 13, 2014

UTICA – John Lynch has been named vice president/chief information officer (CIO) for Mohawk Valley Health System (MVHS). In this role, Lynch coordinates and manages the use of technology to increase information accessibility and integrated systems throughout MVHS.

Prior to this position, Lynch was vice president/CIO at Greater Hudson Valley Health System in Middletown, New York, and, previously, system vice president/CIO at Provena Health (now Presence Health) in Mokena, Illinois.

Lynch earned his Bachelor of Science from Massachusetts Maritime Academy in Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts. He became licensed as an Officer in the United States Merchant Marines and commissioned as an Officer in the United States Navy Reserve. He is a member of the American College of Health Care Executives (ACHE) and the College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME).

###

Sandra Fentiman 
Manager, Marketing and Public Relations
St. Elizabeth Medical Center
(315) 798-8195
sfentiman@stemc.org

For Immediate Release August 12, 2014

Photo caption: (Left to right) St. Elizabeth Medical Center (SEMC) Foundation Golf Committee co-chairs Peter Freedman, MD, and Terry Mielnicki; Syracuse University assistant basketball coach Mike Hopkins; and Scott Perra, FACHE, president/CEO of the Mohawk Valley Health System. The SEMC Foundation’s 19^th Annual Golf Tournament raised $93,020 to benefit the updating of patient rooms at SEMC.

The St. Elizabeth Medical Center (SEMC) Foundation held its 19^th Annual Golf Tournament on Monday, July 14, 2014, at the Yahnundasis Golf Club. A total of 224 golfers helped to raise $93,020 to benefit the updating of patient rooms at SEMC, as well as patient, visitor and employee safety initiatives including limiting the number of access points into the building.

The Foundation appreciates the support of all donors including the Presenting Sponsor, St. Elizabeth Health Support Services, and Social Sponsors, CNY Cardiology, ConMed Corporation, IBEW Local Union 43/NECA Finger Lakes Chapter and Medtronic. The Foundation recognizes Tournament Chairmen, Terry Mielnicki, LCSW, and Peter Freedman, MD, as well as the golf committee and volunteers that helped to make the event a tremendous success.

“This tournament was a great way to bring people together for a wonderful day of golf and at the same time raise necessary funds for the Medical Center,” said Mielnicki. “The Golf Committee is very appreciative of the outstanding financial generosity of all of our supporters.”

The SEMC Foundation provides financial, philosophical and social support enabling SEMC to continue to provide for the medical needs of the community, regardless of race, national origin, creed or ability to pay. 

For information, or to find out how to become a part of Foundation events, please call (315) 734-4287 or visit www.stemc.org/foundation.

###

Caitlin McCann 
Communications Specialist, Marketing and Public Relations
Mohawk Valley Health System
(315) 624-5433
cmccann@mvnhealth.com

Photo caption: (Left to right) Brad Crysler, executive director of Physician Services for Mohawk Valley Health System (MVHS); Hazel Dellavia, president of the Town of Webb Health Fund, Inc. (TWHF) Board of Directors; Barbara Proper, director of TWHF; Ray Smith, director of TWHF; Robert C. Scholefield, senior vice president of MVHS, and Andrea LaGatta, director of Development, St. Elizabeth Medical Center Foundation.

For immediate release: August 8, 2014

The Town of Webb Health Center Fund, Inc. has agreed to fund the replacement of the radiology equipment at St. Elizabeth Medical Center’s (SEMC) Town of Webb Health Center in Old Forge, New York. The celebration of the new equipment was acknowledged on Friday, August 1, 2014, with a check presentation.

“We are pleased to partner with and provide funding for SEMC’s Town of Webb Health Center to replace and upgrade the radiology equipment that the Fund and Town of Webb had originally purchased in 1979,” said Hazel Dellavia, president of the Town of Webb Health Fund, Inc. Board of Directors. “The purpose of the Health Center Fund is to support the health and well-being of the residents and visitors to the Town of Webb and surrounding communities.”

The monies provided for new, state of the art radiology equipment for the staff and patients at the Health Center. The new equipment helps to ensure that the staff at the Town of Webb Health Center has the most current means possible to provide the most accurate and best care to their patients. 

Radiology services are available for the Health Center’s patients and for any patient with a physician’s order.

###

Caitlin McCann 
Communications Specialist, Marketing and Public Relations
Mohawk Valley Health System
(315) 624-5433
cmccann@mvnhealth.com

UTICA -- The Laryngectomy Support Group will be holding its monthly meeting on Thursday, August 14 at 12 p.m. The meeting will be held in the Sister Regina Conference Room on the first floor of the hospital. The Laryngectomy Support Group is sponsored by St. Elizabeth Medical Center.

A laryngectomy is the procedure to remove a person’s larynx and separates the airway from the mouth, nose and esophagus. The laryngectomee breathes through an opening in the neck, called a stoma.

The public is welcome to attend. Please contact the Speech Therapy Department at 734-3475 with any questions. The meetings for the Laryngectomy Support Group are held the second Thursday of each month at 12 p.m.

###

Sandra Fentiman 
Manager, Marketing and Public Relations
St. Elizabeth Medical Center
(315) 798-8195
sfentiman@stemc.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  August 4, 2014 - Headshot Included

UTICA – Vinod S. Kudagi, MD, an Interventional Cardiologist with Mohawk Valley Cardiology PC, has joined the medical staff at Mohawk Valley Health System (MVHS).

Dr. Kudagi received his Doctor of Medicine from J. J. M. Medical College in Davangere, India, and completed his Internal Medicine Residency at the University of Connecticut in Farmington, Connecticut.

Dr. Kudagi completed fellowships in Cardiology at Ochsner Clinic Foundation in New Orleans, Louisiana, Interventional Cardiology at Winthrop University Hospital in Mineola, New York, and Cardiac Imaging (MRI and CT) at Saint Francis Hospital in Roslyn, New York. He is board certified in Cardiology, Nuclear Cardiology and Vascular Interpretation.

Dr. Kudagi can be reached at Mohawk Valley Cardiology PC, 1676 Sunset Avenue, Utica, at (315) 624-8130.

###

Sandra Fentiman 
Manager, Marketing and Public Relations
St. Elizabeth Medical Center
(315) 798-8195
sfentiman@stemc.org

For Immediate Release August 11, 2014

The St. Elizabeth Medical Center Foundation, in partnership with F.X. Matt Brewery, will host Octoberfest in September on Saturday, September 20, 2014, from 2pm to 5pm at F.X. Matt Brewery, 830 Varick Street, Utica. Proceeds from the event will support the St. Elizabeth College of Nursing. Attendees must be 21 and older.

The event will feature American/German food provided by Swifty’s Restaurant & Pub, Saranac beverages and live entertainment by the Dusty Puppies and Gridley Paige. Tickets are $30 if purchased by Friday, September 5, or $35 beginning Saturday, September 6. Stop by the Brewery Gift Shop or call the St. Elizabeth Medical Center Foundation at (315) 734-4287 to purchase tickets. Tickets are also available at www.stemc.org/foundation/octoberfest.

There are also sponsorship opportunities still available. For more information on how to become an Octoberfest sponsor, visit www.stemc.org/foundation/octoberfest or call the Foundation office.

###

Caitlin McCann 
Communications Specialist, Marketing and Public Relations
Mohawk Valley Health System
(315) 624-5433
cmccann@mvnhealth.com

For Immediate Release September 17, 2014

Visitor Restrictions in Place for Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare’s Maternity Unit, Nursery, Special Care Nursery and Pediatric Unit and St. Elizabeth Medical Center’s Pediatric Unit
(Visitors Must Be Adults 18 Years or Older)

Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare (FSLH) is restricting visitors to the Maternity Unit, Nursery, Special Care Nursery and Pediatrics Unit and St. Elizabeth Medical Center (SEMC) is restricting visitors to the Pediatric Unit to adults 18 years of age and older to help prevent spread of the virus, Enterovirus D68. The restrictions will be in place until further notice.

The best defense against this virus is proper hand-washing and covering coughs. The virus likely spreads from person to person when an infected person coughs, sneezes or touches contaminated surfaces, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

You can help protect yourself and your children from respiratory illnesses by following these steps:

• Wash hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds
• Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands
• Avoid kissing, hugging, and sharing cups or eating utensils with people who are sick
• Disinfect frequently touched surfaces, such as toys and doorknobs, especially if someone is sick
• Stay out of crowds, and home from work or school, if you feel ill.

Most children infected with this virus will appear to have a cold with a runny nose, sneezing and cough, which will resolve with rest and symptom management. There are no antiviral medications available to treat the virus. Some children, especially those with asthma and other health problems, are at higher risk for severe disease and complications and may need to be hospitalized.

FSLH and SEMC practice “respiratory etiquette” in our Emergency Departments, Urgent Care Centers, Adirondack Community Physicians medical offices and St. Elizabeth Medical Group primary care offices. In each waiting area there are masks for patients to wear to cover their cough, tissues and hand sanitizer for good hand hygiene. If you are coming to seek treatment and have respiratory problems, you will be asked to wear a mask and may be isolated from other patients.

###

Erin Gigliotti 
Manager, Marketing and Public Relations / Media Specialist
(315) 624-5581
egigliot@mvnhealth.com