TOP HIGHLIGHTS IN THE MONTH OF MARCH
March 2023
National Kidney Month Featuring Mary Mallappallil, MD Director of Nephrology Service Sharon Shorter, MSN, RN, Assistant Director of Nursing Ambulatory Care Service-Hemodialysis
MARCH
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Hospital Dedication Let all who serve here remember that this institution is dedicated to the care of all who are helpless and afflicted. This, before all else. EDITOR-I N -C HIE F & GRAPHIC DE SIG NE R
Alexis Davis, Chief Communications Officer
COPY ED IT OR/ CU R ATO R
Brianna Baptiste, Assistant Director, Communications
GRAPHIC DE S IG N E RS
Omar Hassanien, Assistant Director, Communications Thomas Scarabino, Assistant Director, Communications
PHOTOGRAPHY/MEDIA
Office of Public Affairs
FROM THE DESK OF
Sheldon P. McLeod Chief Executive Office, NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County March is Kidney Awareness Month, an opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of kidney health and the risks associated with kidney disease. At NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County, we are proud to have a team of dedicated professionals committed to providing exceptional care to our patients suffering from kidney disease. Our hemodialysis team is comprised of highly skilled nurses, technicians, and physicians who work tirelessly to ensure that our patients receive the best possible care. We appreciate the phenomenal work that you all do for our patients and the community at large. In addition to Kidney Awareness Month, March also marks Doctors Day, a day when we honor and celebrate the incredible contributions of our physicians. On behalf of the entire NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County workforce, I would like to extend a heartfelt appreciation to all of our doctors. Your commitment, dedication, and hard work inspire us all. Your tireless efforts to provide exceptional care to your patients, even in the most challenging circumstances, are a testament to your unwavering professionalism and expertise. We recognize the sacrifices you make and the many lives you touch. We are so grateful for the exceptional care you provide, day in and day out. You, indeed, are heroes, and we are lucky to have you as a part of our healthcare team. This month we held our legislative breakfast for the first time in four years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The event brought together community leaders, elected officials, and our healthcare professionals to discuss the critical issues facing our healthcare system and hospital. The legislative breakfast was an opportunity for us to showcase our hospital's accomplishments, highlight the challenges we face, and engage with our local and state representatives. We shared our successes, including our recent expansion of services and improvements in patient care, as well as discussed the ongoing challenges we face. Thank you to all who attended. As Women's History Month comes to a close, I want to recognize and celebrate the achievements and contributions of women in our organization and beyond. Women have made significant strides in the healthcare industry and have played an essential role in shaping our hospital's success. I am proud to say that we have a team of remarkable women who have demonstrated excellence, leadership, and compassion in their roles. As we reflect on the accomplishments of women throughout history, let us also recognize the work that remains to be done. We must continue to strive for gender equality and support one another in our personal and professional endeavors. Thank you to all the women in our organization who make a difference daily. Your contributions are invaluable, inspiring us all to work harder and reach higher.
Sheldon P. McLeod
Always be thoughtful and kin
nd. NYC HEALTH + HOSPITALS/ KINGS COUNTY | March 2023
C E L E B R
NATIO KIDNEY F E A T U R I N G
T H E
H E M O D
R A T I N G
ONAL MONTH
D I A L Y S I S
D E P A R T M E N T
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
Hemodialysis Center Unit Updates and Developments The NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County Hemodialysis Center was one of the first federally funded units to use an artificial kidney for chronic dialysis in an attempt to sustain life. The Hemodialysis center has the newest water purification technology, hemodialysis machines, and a renovated hemodialysis unit. Our hemodialysis team provides excellent toxin clearance rates and a high number of arteriovenous fistulas. In 1971, physicians and nurses were being trained in the science of artificial kidney therapy. By 1981, the formerly known, Kings County Hospital Center, was certified by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services as one of the most modern dialysis units. It was scientifically measured and assessed to have high-quality hemodialysis services for promoting health and improving the quality of life. At one point in time, dialysis was only provided to a married man who was the bread winner in the family. While many hospitals were debating to widen the requirement gap for patients that qualify to include women, those with diabetes, and African Americans, Kings County’s hemodialysis unit was already opened and providing the service to diverse patient groups.
Our first and second Medical Directors of the dialysis unit where both treated with hemodialysis at Kings County. Similar to our hospital, our dialysis staff— medical, nursing, social work, dieticians and technicians, come from various corners of the globe and are strongly vested in the unit. The majority of staff are locals and live within the neighborhood. We connect naturally to our patients and during the first COVID-19 pandemic, had one of the lowest infection rates. The care we provide is repeated, consistent, and allows our patients to have the best quality of life with the best support the city can provide. Having the patient at the core of our practice has given us the unique advantage of patient centered-care before it became popular. In addition to hemodialysis, we perform inpatient peritoneal dialysis. One of our goals for the future is offering home based therapies by adding our own chronic peritoneal dialysis unit.
The Hemodialysis Center is now located in the C-building on the 6th floor.
Rooted in education and transparency, patients, families, and staff from all disciplines are continually participating in kidney disease awareness events. This includes the Kidney Walk in 2022, where we raised more than expected monetary donations for the National Kidney Foundation. More recently, on March 9th, 2023, World Kidney Day, the team brought attention to kidney disease awareness by educating the community. The kidney disease awareness event was a fun-filled day that included information on lifestyle, diet, and resources for both providers and patients.
The Hemodialysis Center has persistently maintained a 4 to 5 star rating with the Medicare Dialysis Facility Compare Program.
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
Meet Mary Mallappallil, MD, FASN Director of Service, Nephrology Medical Director of Hemodialysis
Dr. Mallappallil attended SUNY Downstate for medical school, and did her internal medicine residency at Beth Israel-Mount Sinai. She then did her nephrology fellowship at SUNY Downstate, after which, joined the nephrology faculty at North Shore University Hospital. She came to NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County in 2007 and became the Nephrology Fellowship program director at SUNY Downstate until 2019. Participating in the national nephrology milestones committee, she helped craft the standard by which all U.S. renal fellows are currently evaluated. She has published numerous articles and books, and is dedicated to educating patients, residents and faculty, serving as the Nephrology Medical Education Director since 2007. For all of her contributions, Dr. Mallappallil was selected by her attending physician peers for the Castle Connolly Top Doctor Award in Brooklyn for 2023.
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
Meet Sharon Shorter, MSN, RN
Assistant Director of Nursing, Ambulatory Care ServicesHemodialysis Sharon Shorter has over 35 years of experience in various nursing disciplines. She joined NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County's Hemodialysis team in February of 2010 and never looked back. Since then, she has been leading and strategically guiding the dialysis unit. NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County's dialysis unit has been successful in acquiring and maintaining a 4 to 5 star rating since 2012, which Ms. Shorter has played a very large part in.
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
Chronic kidney disease is a condition in which your kidneys become damaged and gradually lose their ability to filter blood properly so that waste and excess fluid can be excreted in your urine. When this happens, dangerous levels of waste and fluid can build up in your body, making you feel sick. Over time, kidney disease can contribute to other health conditions. It may also lead to kidney failure. Once this happens, you will either need dialysis or a kidney transplant in order to stay alive. This serious health condition is often not on people’s radar, but it should be because it’s more common than you may think. About 1 in 3 adults in the U.S. are at risk for developing kidney disease. More than 1 in 7 adults already have the disease. But approximately 90% of the people who have the condition don’t know they have it.
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
How do I know if I have kidney disease? Most people don’t have symptoms in the early stages of kidney disease. It is not until the disease becomes more advanced that you may start to feel sick, and many symptoms may be attributed to other causes. Here are the most common symptoms of a more advanced kidney disease.
Swollen feet/ankles Fatigue/sleep problems Dry, itchy skin Muscle cramps Urinating too much or too little Nausea/vomiting/loss of appetite Decreased mental sharpness Erectile dysfunction or reduced sex drive Shortness of breath (due to fluid in the lungs) Electrolyte imbalances Anemia Weak bones Hard-to-control high blood pressure
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
Getting to the bottom of it. The best way to know for sure if you have kidney disease is through blood and/or urine tests that measure kidney function. If you are at an increased risk for the disease, your doctor may periodically order these tests and routinely monitor your blood pressure. Imaging tests or biopsies may also be recommended to help determine what’s causing your kidney problem.
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
What increases my risk for kidney disease? Obesity Smoking Prolonged use of medications that can damage kidneys Cardiovascular disease Abnormal kidney structure Having other conditions that affect your kidneys or urinary tract Advanced age Family history of kidney disease Being African, Native or Asian American
Although you can’t control all risk factors for kidney disease, there are some you can control. Maintain a healthy weight, don’t smoke and follow instructions for any medications you take. Be especially careful about taking too many over-the-counter pain relievers.
What happens if I have kidney disease? There is no cure for chronic kidney disease, but treatment focuses on slowing progression of the damage to your kidneys. Since kidney damage is often due to other conditions, such as diabetes and high blood pressure, controlling the conditions that cause kidney damage is the first line of defense. Treatment will also include trying to manage symptoms and reduce complications. If you develop kidney failure, you may need dialysis or a kidney transplant.
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
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YC Health + Hospitals/Kings County's Medical and Dental Professional Staff Affairs hosted a special luncheon for our doctors. The doctors were treated to a delightful morning of music, awards, and breakfast. The occasion also marked the distribution of several distinguished awards, including the Doctor of the Year, Teacher of the Year, and the highly regarded Physician Appreciation award. The keynote speaker for the event was Dr. Julian Watkins, Acting Assistant Commissioner of the NYC Department of Health & Mental Hygiene.
His talk on 'A Doctor's Struggle for Integrity' proved to be an insightful and thoughtprovoking address, underscoring the importance of upholding the highest ethical standards in the medical profession. On this special day, let's all extend our warmest wishes to all of our doctors for everything they do for our patients, families, and our community. Your dedication, hard work, and tireless efforts have not gone unnoticed, and we are so grateful for the exceptional care you provide every day.
HONORING OUR HEALTH CARE HEROES
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
BEHAVIORAL HEALTH CENTER'S
EXTENDED CARE UNIT RIBBON CUTTING MARCH 3, 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
Simulating A Rehearsal For Life
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County announced the opening of the Extended Care Unit (ECU) at the Behavioral Health Center —also known as an inpatient psychosocial rehabilitation program. Admission to an ECU can be an alternative to long-term hospitalization (i.e. state hospitalization) for individuals requiring more intensive inpatient treatment but who may no longer be appropriate to stay in a short-term acute hospital setting, or who may have repeat admissions due to psychosocial factors that impact their presentation.
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
Encompassing Holistic Care Features utilized in the Extended Care Unit include: Token Economy – helps patients learn to budget/delay gratification, rewards prosocial and adherent behaviors, value on self-reliance) Stratified Residents – Rewards become more social and community based (using a color system of red, orange, and green) Off-Unit Trips – given as a reward that can be earned or part of treatment plan (behavioral activation, exposure therapy (paranoia), housing related, re-integration to society and occupational therapy or resocialization) Mentoring Program/Patient Jobs Greeting Card Program Computer Group/Vocational Training
INTRODUCING CYRÉ GUADALUPE
DIRECTOR OF WELLNESS Cyré Guadalupe is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY. She received her Bachelor of Science in Human Development from Cornell University and then earned her Master of Science in Social Work from Columbia University specializing in program planning and evaluation. Immediately after receiving her MSW, Cyré worked as an Educational Programs Coordinator at Weill Cornell Medical College where she managed their educational programs including the MS Program in Clinical Epidemiology and Health Services Research, AHRQ T32 Fellowship, and Summer Intensive Program.
After two years, Cyré transitioned into school social work and spent the last eight years working in NYC urban charter schools, including the additional roles of Lead Clinician, High School Coordinator, and Civics Engagement Coordinator. Throughout her time as a School Social Worker, Cyré developed a passion for wellness and recognized the importance of employers prioritizing the emotional and psychological needs of staff. Cyré is also known for providing teletherapy to adolescents and adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and trauma. Cyré is excited to join the Helping Healers Heal team and enhance wellness programming at Kings County!
Cyré developed a passion for wellness and recognized the importance of employers prioritizing the emotional and psychological needs of staff.
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County's Office of Academic Affairs, in partnership with SUNY Downstate, gathered to celebrate the opening of the Medical Student Lounge located in the B-Building with a ribbon cutting. Thank you to SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University President, Dr. Riley, and Dean of the College of Medicine and Professor of Surgery, Dr. Brunicardi, for visiting us for such an exciting event!
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE NURSE The DAISY Award program was established in 1999. There are over 5,400 healthcare facilities and schools of nursing in all 50 states and 35 other countries and territories, committed to honoring nurses with The DAISY Award.
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
Nurses are nominated by anyone in the organization patients, family members, other nurses, physicians, other clinicians and staff - anyone who observes extraordinary compassionate care being provided by a nurse!
SCAN HERE TO SUBMIT YOUR VOTE BY APRIL 7
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
Patient safety is a high priority here at NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County. March 23rd marked the end of the Phillips 3-day Kaizen event aimed at improving telemetry processes and procedures. This event was sponsored by executive leadership and utilized a cross-functional team with subject matter experts from cardiology, hospital medicine, emergency medicine, biomedical, nursing (IT, education, ADNs), central monitoring unit, IT (NYC Health + Hospitals central office, Kings, Phillips) admitting, risk management, patient safety, and quality. The take-home message? Safety first, and talk after! The entire team looks forward to implementing the action plans developed collaboratively to ensure patient safety and high value care are optimized.
BEHAVIORA
AL HEALTH
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
Social Work Awareness Month MARCH 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
This March, NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County highlights Social Workers, Community Liaison Workers, Case Managers, and Addiction Counselors who function within the Social Work Department within Behavioral Health for Social Work Month. They are an essential part of every service area here and are constantly breaking barriers to provide the best care for every patient and their families. We recognize them and the excellent work they do! The theme for this year’s social work month: Social Workers Break Barriers, rings with resounding truth for the Behavioral Health social work staff!
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
Alexandra Remond LMSW Annalissa Joseph LMSW Arielle Lynch LMSW Annette Baptiste LMSW Cassandra Cox LMSW Cheryl Mitchell Caseworker Christina Nazario LMSW Constance Nevers Caseworker Desbimona Ward Caseworker Dawn Hunte LMSW Dorotie Bruno LMSW Eboné Cruel LMSW Gina jean-Baptiste LMSW Hazel Mathurin LMSW Helsie Barthelus LCSW Jeneka Shields LMSW Joi Brown LMSW Junette Williams LMSW Kenny Kyriakou LMSW Larry Kiel LMSW Latisha Smith LMSW Laurel Young LMSW Lystra Lessey LMSW Malcolm Butler LMSW Margo Esbrand LCSW Merlyn Jeffrey LMSW Milena Manelis Caseworker Mona Spencer LMSW Nikaya Smith LMSW Nora Bobe Caseworker Ogwo- Ogechi Ndukwe, LCSW Pamela, Jones LMSW Pauline Bacchus LMSW Rasaq Sanni LMSW Saul Sherlene LMSW Shameeka Mcallister LMSW Sophia Minott LMSW Tanisha Dacres LMSW Velda Graves- Pearce LMSW Sarah Abraham LCSW– Director Najahia Caesar- Justin – Secretary III B Supervisors Ava Fevrier LCSW Barbara Nicholas LCSW Beverly Christie LMSW Michael Liebmann LCSW Monique Harding LCSW Nancy Richardson LMSW Rose Mitchell LCSW Yonique Johnson LCSW
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
LiveOnNY SCAN HERE
Trauma Surgery SCAN HERE
The Infectious Diseases Society of America recognized NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County as one of the recipients of its Antimicrobial Stewardship Centers of Excellence designation. Awarded institutions have created stewardship programs led by infectious diseases-trained physicians and pharmacists that advance science in antimicrobial resistance. The institutions have also achieved standards aligned with evidence-based national guidelines, such as the IDSA-Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America guidelines and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Core Elements. The core criteria for the Centers of Excellence program place emphasis on an institution’s ability to implement stewardship protocols by integrating best practices to slow the emergence of resistance, optimize the treatment of infections, reduce adverse events associated with antibiotic use and address other challenging areas related to antimicrobial stewardship. A panel of IDSA member experts in antimicrobial stewardship, including IDtrained physicians and ID-trained pharmacists, evaluate Centers of Excellence applications against high-level criteria established by IDSA leadership for determining merit.
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
Carlos del Rio, MD, FIDSA, IDSA President
NYC HEALTH + HOSPITALS/KINGS COUNTY'S
Legislative Breakfas MARCH 10, 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
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NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County held the 2023 Legislative Breakfast, produced by the Office of Communications & Public Affairs. The breakfast provided an opportunity to learn about the federal and state legislative agenda and its potential impact on the services provided by NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County, as well as an opportunity to interact with elected officials that were in attendance. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this was the first time since 2019 that our staff, community partners, and elected officials have been able to come together for this event. Thank you to everyone who came out!
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
DON'T LET YOUR NOSE DO MORE RUNNING THAN YOU DO
What to Do Now to Ease Allergy Symptoms Later The days are getting longer and the weather is getting warmer. The sights, sounds and smells of budding flowers and trees are all around. While for many people, signs of a new season on the horizon are welcome and invigorating, for others it’s a reminder that their allergies are about to kick into high gear. But instead of waiting for the sneezing, sniffling, watery eyes and itchy throat to take hold, why not take matters into your own hands now so you can enjoy the season without the misery? Many people wait until they experience allergy symptoms to find ways to get relief. But if you are prone to seasonal allergies and get them year after year, why wait until that happens? After all, it’s highly unlikely that this will be the year you suddenly don’t experience allergy symptoms—that is, unless you do something about it now.
If you start taking allergy medication before allergy season kicks into full-gear, you’ll be doing your body a world of good. It’s also more likely that you’ll need to take less medication to get and keep your allergies under control if you start taking the medication now rather than waiting until after allergy symptoms appear. Most allergy medications contain antihistamines. This stops the chemical histamine, which is released by your immune system when it overreacts to an allergen, from binding with histamine receptors in your body. Once histamine binds to histamine receptors, it causes inflammation. This produces the allergy symptoms you feel, such as congestion, itchiness and watery eyes. By starting allergy medication early, it makes it less likely that histamine released into your system will bind to these receptors. That means it’s more likely you’ll experience fewer or no symptoms at all.
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
Anesthesia technicians are integral members of any anesthesia patient care team. Their role consists of assisting licensed anesthesia providers in the acquisition, preparation and application of both the equipment and general supplies needed for the administration of anesthesia. This day is dedicated to all technologists and technicians in the field of anesthesiology and the contributions they make to anesthesia care departments year round.
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
Dental Assistants Recognition Week
MARCH 5 - MARCH 11
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
National Dentist's Day is an opportunity to celebrate all of our doctors who specialize in oral health. We are proud to have such a devoted group of dentists contributing to the overall health of our patients.
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
W
hen it comes to whether or not you’ll develop type 2 diabetes, there are many factors at play. Some risk factors are under your control, while others are not. But by making positive lifestyle changes that affect the risk factors you can control, you make it more likely you won’t develop this chronic and serious disease.
One recent study found an easy way to lower your chance of developing type 2 diabetes. The study, published in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, analyzed data from wearable activity trackers and found that people who spent more time doing any type of physical activity had a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Those logging over 10,000 steps a day were 44% less likely to develop type 2 diabetes than those getting 6,000 steps.
The findings came from analyzing Fitbit data and type 2 diabetes rates from 5,677 participants (about 75% of them were women) in the National Institute of Health’s All of Us Research Program between 2010 – 2021. Although more research needs to be done on the subject, this information gives us one seemingly powerful defense to protect ourselves from diabetes. We have to move more each day!
The amount of physical activity you do (or don’t do) may have an impact on your risk of type 2 diabetes, but it’s not the only thing affecting your risk. Other risk factors include: Being overweight Being age 45 or older Being one of the following ethnicities: African American, Hispanic/Latino, American Indian, Alaskan Native, Pacific Islander or Asian American Having a parent or sibling with type 2 diabetes Having prediabetes Having ever had diabetes during pregnancy (gestational diabetes) Having non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
You can’t change some risk factors, such as your age, ethnicity or family history. But making the following healthy lifestyle changes may help prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes: MOVE MORE – Increase the number of steps you take each day and engage in any type of activity you enjoy that gets you moving. EAT A HEALTHY DIET – Build your diet around vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean protein, healthy fats and low-fat dairy. Limit added sugar, white flour and saturated fat. LOSE WEIGHT – If you’re overweight, losing even a small amount of weight can lower your diabetes risk. The other lifestyle changes listed above (moving more and eating a healthy diet) can help.
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
Creative Arts THERAPY WEEK M A R C H
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
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M A R C H
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ational Creative Arts Therapy Week is held annually during the third week in March in the U.S. and Canada. Therapists are encouraged to use this week as an opportunity to spread the word about the value and efficacy of art and drama therapy. It is also an opportunity to create collaborations with other therapists in your local communities.
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
Omar Fattal, Jeremy Segall, Nichelle Murray, Amber Supernor, and Christina Ranjani from NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County's Therapeutic Rehabilitation Department will all be speaking at the "From Crisis to Opportunity: Innovating Clinical Practice Through Creativity, Healing, Resilience" virtual conference, March 1416. This conference will highlight the resilience and connections of people pre and post COVID-19.
There’s no denying that there are numerous health benefits to walking. Walking has been linked to reduced cholesterol and blood pressure and improved heart health. It may lower your risk of type 2 diabetes and other chronic health conditions. A daily walk can help you lose weight or maintain weight loss. And it may improve sleep and increase your energy. But that may only be the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the benefits this easy-to-do activity offers.
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
Walking boosts your overall mood. Walking eases stress and anxiety. Helps reduce symptoms of depression. Increases mental alertness. Improves self-esteem and confidence.
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
One reason why walking is so good for your mental health is that it increases blood flow and circulation throughout your body, including to your brain. This can affect your central nervous system, which helps calm your nerves and reduces stress. If you walk with other people, you also get the added benefit of positive social interaction. So not only do you reap the benefits of physically moving your body, but those social interactions can improve your mood, increase your selfesteem and ward off depression.
Take a moment or two to tap into all of your senses as you move one foot in front of the other. Look at the sights around you—the colors, textures and beauty of mother nature. Listen to the birds chirping, wind blowing or leaves crunching underfoot—or savor the silence of being unplugged and away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Pay attention to the air you’re breathing. Do you smell flowers blooming nearby or freshly cut grass? Does the air feel crisp and clean? Warm and refreshing?
Walking in nature has been shown to be especially beneficial to your mental health. If you have the opportunity, take a walk or a hike outdoors whenever possible. Getting some fresh air and being out in nature has more positive effects on your overall wellbeing than you may even imagine. Taking a stroll outside not only gives you unlimited potential to move your body and improve your lung capacity, but it’s also the perfect antidote to a stress-filled life.
If you’re like many people, it’s hard to be in a bad mood for long when you’re taking a walk. Even if you start out feeling angry, stressed or sad, the act of moving your body, getting your blood circulating and disconnecting from everyday stressors will likely make you feel at least a little better. Whether you prefer to walk alone and be in your own head, enjoy a lively conversation with a friend or bop to your favorite tunes, it feels good knowing you’re doing something good for your body and your mind each time you put one foot in front of the other.
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
OFFICE OF
QUALITY & SAFETY
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
Equity is the absence of unfair, avoidable or remediable differences among groups of people, whether those groups are defined socially, economically, demographically, or geographically or by other dimensions of inequality. Health is a fundamental human right. Health equity is achieved when everyone can attain their full potential for health and well-being. - The World Health Organization (WHO)
ACCESS TO HEALTHCARE Since the 1950’s, African Americans have reached many milestones in the Civil Rights Movement toward justice and equity. However, there is much work to be done in relation to health equity for marginalized communities. Gaps in healthcare access are wider among impoverished, minority populations. Access to care remains disparate because of socioeconomic factors such as wealth, employment, insurance coverage, food insecurities, adequate housing, language barriers, immigration status, health literacy, and trust of providers and hospitals. Because of these factors, racial and ethnic minority groups experience higher rates of chronic health conditions, which leads to increase morbidity and mortality rates.
THE JOINT COMMISSION & HEALTH EQUITY On January 1, 2023, The Joint Commission (TJC) implemented new requirements in an effort to reduce health care disparities. They then announced that the health equity standards will be elevated to a National Patient Safety Goal (NPSG) effective July 1, 2023. This will require organizations across the nation to increase their focus on improving health equity as a high priority patient safety issue. This is the first update of its kind in the past 15 years and the 17th NPSG in the 20 years since the inauguration of the NPSG program.
Designate an individual(s) to lead activities to improve health care equity. Assess the patient’s healthrelated social needs (HRSNs) and provide information about community resources and support services. Identify health care disparities in its patient population by stratifying quality and safety data. Develop a written action plan that describes how it will improve health care equity. The hospital acts when it does not achieve or sustain the goal(s) in its action plan to improve health care equity. Annually, the hospital informs key stakeholders about its progress.
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
In September of 2022, the Health Equity Committee (Kings HEC) was formed to address health disparities with our patient population and to lead activities geared towards improving health equity. The committee strives to ensure that we afford every patient the best opportunity to achieve optimal health and well-being, despite gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation or socio-economic, environmental and physical characteristics.
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County provides person-centered care to patients regardless of their ability to pay.
3RD
ANNUAL
RED CARPET EVENT
T
he Magnet/Professional Development Shared Governance Council hosted the 3rd Annual red carpet event honoring certified nurses. It was an auspicious event attended by approximately 80 certified nurses and guests. Attendees included representation from senior leadership; Mr. McLeod CEO, Ms. Sinclair-Chung CNO, Ms. Patagan Deputy Director, Ms. Trotman AED and Ms. Gentile, Director of Nursing Education and Research. The event highlighted NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County's commitment to fostering certification and professional development as a Pathway to Excellence designated hospital. It is one of the driving goals of the Magnet/Professional Development Shared Governance Council to increase the number of certified nurses at Kings by 10% by the end of 2023.
The nurses were thrilled to be recognized for their accomplishment in receiving board certification in their specialty areas, acknowledging their advanced level of competence, skills and knowledge. It was a fun filled event which allowed for prizes, gifts and testimonials from certified nurses encouraging others to get certified. Kudos to all our certified nurses and the outstanding work you do in striving for nursing excellence in an ever-changing work environment.
Congrat
DR. DENHAM, CXO & DR. SCOTT, CQO REC
Congratulations to Dr. Seanna-Kaye Denham, Chief Experience Officer at NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County, for being recognized in Becker's Hospital Review's "50+ health system chief experience officers to know | 2023" list! Dr. Denham has been at NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County since the start of her career. Now as its chief experience officer, Dr. Denham is its foremost thought leader and strategist on person-centered approaches to optimizing human relationships in the healthcare setting. She and her team help their organization practice inclusive employee engagement through a robust executive leadership rounds program: the Care Experience Council and peer-led recognition programs. She led the organization to improve its approaches to patient and employee experience.
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COGNIZED BY BECKER'S HOSPITAL REVIEW
Congratulations to Dr. Jinel Scott, Chief Quality Officer and Associate CMO at NYC Health + Hospitals/ Kings County, for being on Becker’s Hospital Review’s “149 Black healthcare leaders to know | 2023” list! Dr. Scott is responsible for coordinating and managing NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County's strategy and activities around health equity, quality management, performance improvement, infection prevention, and regulatory affairs. She has published articles highlighting pathways to reduce and eliminate disparities, underrepresentation, and barriers to access, sits on the board of directors of the Radiological Society of North America., and is a member of the Radiological Society of North America's Committee on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
Our GI staff are worthy of the highest commendation for great service to our patients and the community at large. The nurses work in collaboration with the physicians to create a safe and caring environment as we diagnose, treat, monitor and educate patients on various gastrointestinal conditions.
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
Colorectal cancer may not be something you think about on a regular basis, but the fact is that getting regular colorectal cancer screenings is one of the best and easiest things you can do to prevent this disease. Unfortunately, most people don’t get early warning signs if they have colorectal cancer. Even if there are signs, they may resemble other conditions, like irritable bowel syndrome or even hemorrhoids, so it may not spur them to have a doctor check for cancer. That’s why many people who have colorectal cancer don’t find out until the cancer is advanced —and why colorectal cancer is the second deadliest cancer behind lung cancer.
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
When
should I begin colorectal cancer screenings? Nearly 90% of colorectal cancer occurs in people who are age 50 or older, but cases in younger adults have been rising. Doctors now recommend that people at average risk for colorectal cancer get screened beginning at age 45. If you are at an increased risk for the disease, it may be recommended that you begin screening at a younger age. Even if you have no signs of colorectal cancer, you should still be screened. The gold standard of colorectal cancer screening is a colonoscopy, but there are other screening options as well. These include: Fecal occult blood test DNA stool test Sigmoidoscopy Virtual colonoscopy Some of these tests are less invasive than a colonoscopy so they may be a good option for people who don’t want to or can’t get a colonoscopy. It is best to discuss screening options with your doctor.
Since colorectal cancer typically doesn’t result in noticeable symptoms until more advanced stages, it may be too late to treat it successfully if you wait until you have symptoms. Actress Kirstie Alley was diagnosed only shortly before she passed away in December 2022 from the disease. Chadwick Boseman, “Black Panther” film star, lost his battle with colon cancer at the age of 43 after being diagnosed with an advanced stage of the disease a few years earlier. Colorectal cancer screenings can find cancer at an early stage, before symptoms may be present. This makes it more easily treatable. Screenings may also detect abnormalities that may become cancerous in the future, such as polyps. If found, these can be removed before cancer develops. When this happens, the screening can be considered to have prevented the disease from occurring at all.
Since colorectal cancer typically doesn’t result in noticeable symptoms until more advanced stages, it may be too late to treat it successfully if you wait until you have symptoms. Actress Kirstie Alley was diagnosed only shortly before she passed away in December 2022 from the disease. Chadwick Boseman, “Black Panther” film star, lost his battle with colon cancer at the age of 43 after being diagnosed with an advanced stage of the disease a few years earlier. Colorectal cancer screenings can find cancer at an early stage, before symptoms may be present. This makes it more easily treatable. Screenings may also detect abnormalities that may become cancerous in the future, such as polyps. If found, these can be removed before cancer develops. When this happens, the screening can be considered to have prevented the disease from occurring at all.
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
HONORING OUR HEALTH CARE HEROES NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County's Medical and Dental Professional Staff Affairs Today, in celebration of Doctors' Day, NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County's Medical and Dental Professional Staff Affairs hosted a special luncheon for our doctors. The doctors were treated to a delightful morning of music, awards, and breakfast. The occasion also marked the distribution of several distinguished awards, including the Doctor of the Year, Teacher of the Year, and the highly regarded Physician Appreciation award. The keynote speaker for the event was Dr. Julian Watkins, Acting Assistant Commissioner of the NYC Department of Health & Mental Hygiene. His talk on 'A Doctor's Struggle for Integrity' proved to be an insightful and thought-provoking address, underscoring the importance of upholding the highest ethical standards in the medical profession. On this special day, let's all extend our warmest wishes to all of our doctors for everything they do for our patients, families, and our community. Your dedication, hard work, and tireless efforts have not gone unnoticed, and we are so grateful for the exceptional care you provide every day. As healthcare professionals, you have been on the front lines of this pandemic, working tirelessly to save lives and bring hope to those in need. Your unwavering commitment is truly awe-inspiring. showed the doctors their appreciation by hosting a luncheon. The doctor's got to enjoy lunch, musical performances and more. Several awards were given out such as Doctor of the Year, Teacher of the Year and the Physician Appreciation award. The keynote speaker for this year was Dr. Julian Watkins the Acting Assistant Commissioner of NYC Department of Health & Mental Hygiene. He spoke on 'A Doctor's Struggle for Integrity". Thank you to everyone who attended and an ever bigger thank you to our doctors for working tirelessly every day to reach new heights in health care so that we may combat health disparities, while providing the highest quality care. Your work does not go unnoticed!
How Different Types of Alcohol Affect You When it comes to alcohol, many people believe that the type of alcohol they drink has an effect on how they feel. But do different types of alcohol actually affect your body differently? Or do you just think they do? The fact is that no matter what type of alcoholic beverage you drink—whether beer, wine, tequila, vodka or whiskey— they all contain the same ingredient that gets you intoxicated. It’s called ethanol, which is a by-product of fermenting natural sugars. Ethanol suppresses the central nervous system, which is why it affects your decision-making skills, slurs your speech and impairs your coordination.
Since all types of alcohol contain the same intoxicating ingredient, it must be something else at play when it comes to how alcohol makes you feel. Here are some of the reasons you may feel differently depending on what you’re drinking.
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
DRINKING BEHAVIORS
SERVING SIZE
A standard drink has 14 grams of ethanol in it. Depending on the alcohol’s ABV, the amount you can drink to meet this amount varies widely. For example, 14 grams of ethanol equals: 12 fluid ounces of beer with a 5% ABV 5 fluid ounces of wine with a 12% ABV 1.5 fluid ounces of spirits (vodka, run, gin, tequila or whiskey) with a 40% ABV Many packaged drinks (in cans and bottles), as well as poured drinks in restaurants and bars, contain more than what is considered to be a standard drink.
ABV Different alcoholic beverages have a different amount of alcohol by volume (ABV). The higher the ABV, the more alcohol content per fluid ounce. For example, the ABV of light beers may be around 3 - 5%, wine around 12 - 15% and whiskey around 40%. So you may be consuming more alcohol when drinking one type of beverage than another, unless you pay careful attention to the serving size.
ATOMOSPHERE – Where you’re drinking (and who you're drinking with) plays a part in how alcohol makes you feel. Are you sipping wine slowly while relaxing alone on the couch? Drinking shots of tequila in a rowdy bar with friends? Downing a few beers while engrossed in an exciting football game? TIME – How quickly you consume alcohol changes how it affects you. You’ll feel differently if you consume the same amount of alcohol over a short period of time than if it’s spaced out. OTHER CONSUMPTION – What else you’re consuming also influences how alcohol affects you. Are you eating food alongside your drinks? Mixing alcohol with energy drinks or caffeine? Does your drink contain a lot of sugar? Are you also taking prescription or illicit drugs, such as depressants, stimulants or opioids?
OTHER FACTORS INTOLERANCES – You may have an allergy or intolerance to ingredients used to make certain types of alcohol. AGE – Your metabolism slows as you age, which may cause alcohol to have a greater effect on you. MEDICAL CONDITIONS – Your overall health and the medications you take can affect how your body reacts to alcohol.
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
Face masks are still required in all patient care areas including our Clinics, Emergency Departments and Inpatient Units.
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
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NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
NYC Health + Hospitals/Kings County | March 2023
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