December 2015 Media Summary

Table of Contents (Click on desired Article)

Pg. Date Publication Headline 3 12/21/15 Courier-Post Inspira seeks Volunteers 4 12/28/15 Courier-Post Inspira hires new Leaders 5 12/28/15 The Daily Journal Helping Hands – Inspira seeks volunteers 6 12/2015 The Daily Journal Health Connection

16 12/12/15 Press of Atlantic City Hospitals giving patients the silent treatment 18 12/15/15 Press of Atlantic City Inspira improving precision in breast cancer surgery 19 12/18/15 SNJ Today Inspira Health Network Nurse Receives March of Dimes Nurse of the Year 21 12/18/15 SNJ Today Inspira-Jefferson Neuroscience Program gets Medical Director 22 12/24/15 SNJ Today Inspira Health Network Honored at Awards Dinner in Atlantic City 23 12/28/15 SNJ Today Inspira Health Network Announces Two New VPs 24 12/28/15 SNJ Today The Inspira Auxiliary Cumberland County names its 2015 Auxilian 25 12/31/15 SNJ Today March of Dimes NJ honors Inspira Nurses 26 12/01/15 South Jersey Times Inspira Medical Center Woodbury opens Orthopedic Unit 27 12/07/15 South Jersey Times Inspira Hospice offers Interfaith Service of the Longest Night 28 12/07/15 South Jersey Times Inspira Woodbury names Leader of the Quarter 29 12/10/15 South Jersey Times New Hospital in SJ? Upcoming Vote will decide 31 12/11/15 South Jersey Times One third of NJ hospitals penalized for persistent infections and errors 37 12/17/15 South Jersey Times BEN – Sherry Remy 38 12/17/15 South Jersey Times Inspira recognized for its efforts to improve care for older adults 39 12/18/15 South Jersey Times See traffic disaster if Harrison Twp. hosts Inspira hospital 41 12/19/15 South Jersey Times BEN – Elmer Hospital 42 12/22/15 South Jersey Times Inspira Health Network seeking volunteers 43 12/28/15 South Jersey Times` Inspira names two new Vice Presidents 44 12/29/15 South Jersey Times Cumberland Inspira Auxiliary names Auxilian of the year 45 12/30/15 South Jersey Times 3 Inspira nurses earn March of Dimes ‘Nurse of the Year Award

47 12/17/15 Philadelphia Business Journal Medicare Imposes payment penalty on 13 area hospitals

1 Courier-Post December 21, 2015

Inspira seeks volunteers Phaedra Trethan, @CP_Phaedra1:50 p.m. EST December 21, 2015

Inspira Health Network is seeking volunteers in a variety of roles, including office and clerical support, meeting and greeting visitors, cashier and retail positions, supporting nursing staff, offering patients emotional and spiritual support and more.

Volunteers of all ages are sought for daily and weekend hours at Inspira locations in Bridgeton, Elmer, Vineland and Woodbury, as well as Inspira's home and hospice care programs, LIFE Center the thrift shop.

To contact the volunteer programs at Inspira’s medical centers, call Elmer (856) 363-1738; Vineland (856) 641-7737; or Woodbury (856) 853-2034. For more information, visit www.InspiraHealthNetwork.org or call 1-800-INSPIRA.

1 Courier-Post December 28, 2015

Inspira hires new leaders Kim Mulford, @CP_KimMulford1:15 p.m. EST December 28, 2015

Inspira Health Network has hired two new vice presidents to lead its population health and corporate compliance efforts.

Carol Thomas has been appointed as vice president of population health. She is the former executive director for Tristate Health Partners PHO and the Tristate Meritus ACO at Meritus Health System in Maryland. Thomas earned a Bachelor of Arts degree, a Master of Science degree, and a Master of Philosophy degree in organizational dynamics from the University of Pennsylvania.

Joe Piccolo has been appointed vice president of corporate compliance and chief compliance officer. He is formerly the vice president of integrity and compliance for Trinity Health's St. Mary Medical Center in Pennsylvania. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania and a Master of Business Administration degree from LaSalle University.

Joe Piccolo has been appointed vice president of Corporate compliance and chief compliance officer for Inspira

1 The Daily Journal December 28, 2015

Inspira seeks volunteers Inspira Health Network is seeking volunteers in a variety of roles, including office and clerical support, meeting and greeting visitors, cashier and retail positions, supporting nursing staff, offering patients emotional and spiritual support and more.

Volunteers of all ages are sought for daily and weekend hours at Inspira locations in Bridgeton, Elmer, Vineland and Woodbury, as well as Inspira's home and hospice care programs, LIFE Center and thrift shop.

To contact the volunteer programs at Inspira’s medical centers, call Elmer (856) 363-1738; Vineland (856) 641-7737; or Woodbury (856) 853-2034. For more information, visit www.InspiraHealthNetwork.org or call 1-800-INSPIRA

1/7/2016 The Daily Journal - www.thedailyjournal.com cover Health Connection

http://www.print2webcorp.com/news/Vineland/HealthConnection/20141126/cover_a1.htm 2/2

1 The Daily Journal – Health Connection December 2015

Inspira Health Network is prepared for Ebola JOHN DIANGELO INSPIRA HEALTH NETWORK PRESIDENT AND CEO

In recent weeks, it’s been nearly impossible to miss news about the Ebola virus. While I’ve heard some say that the media coverage is excessive, we can never be too prepared in the health care industry. Here at Inspira Health Network, we are dedicated to keeping our communities healthy. And that’s why we must be sure that our staff is well protected and ready to care for our neighbors if the virus reaches our area. Fortunately, many experts feel that the chance of a widespread Ebola outbreak in our country is very low. But we cannot simply wait and see. We are taking this health issue very seriously and the staff at Inspira have been hard at work planning and

preparing our response to Ebola. Like many health systems across the country, we are training our staff to identify potential Ebola patients, protect themselves in the event that we have an infected patient, respond quickly to provide the best treatment, and keep the rest of our community healthy. That’s a tall order, and to make it happen, we are regularly monitoring the guidelines provided by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and training our staff to respond. I’d like to share some of the steps we’ve taken at Inspira to protect you and the rest of our community in the unlikely event that we see Ebola here. Early detection of Ebola is critical. We have implemented the CDC’s Ebola screening questionnaire at all of our emergency departments, urgent care centers, physician practices and other outpatient centers to help identify patients quickly. Our staff in these departments have been trained to appropriately screen patients for Ebola related symptoms as well. The CDC guidelines currently suggest that those at the highest risk are patients with a fever who have recently traveled to an area where the Ebola outbreak is severe, like Western Africa. We have added signage at all our entrances to provide guidance to patients and visitors about this screening. If a patient meets all of the CDC criteria, they will be immediately isolated to a designated treatment area by staff wearing appropriate protective equipment. This is essential to protect both the wellbeing of our staff and anyone else who helps to care for Ebola patients. Ebola is not an airborne virus. Unlike the common cold or the flu, it is not easy for the general public to catch. It is transferred through bodily fluids, which means that caregivers are at a higher risk of being exposed when caring for an infected patient. That’s why the immediate isolation of Ebola patients and the use of protective suits, gloves and face shields are so important.

2 The Daily Journal – Health Connection December 2015

Anyone taking care of Ebola patients must wear this protective equipment, and we have worked aggressively to acquire and maintain an inventory of these items across our network. It’s also extremely important that our staff are trained properly in how to remove this equipment after they have been exposed to an infected patient. We’ve been providing our staff with ongoing education using both live demonstrations and video tutorials. Finally, our Environmental Services team has also received guidance from the CDC about the proper cleaning of affected treatment rooms. They, too, have been trained and are ready to ensure that our medical centers are safe and sterile. Fortunately, we recently introduced robotic technology across our network that can fill a patient room with UV light after it is cleaned. This UV light has been shown to effectively kill the Ebola virus. This spread of Ebola is evolving and changing on a daily basis. Inspira’s Emergency Management and Infection Prevention experts will continue to monitor the virus and coordinate our response. We will be sharing updates with our staff, physicians, patients and visitors regularly to make sure that we are keeping everyone safe at all times. I want to sincerely thank all of the Inspira staff for their vigilance and attention during this evolving health issue. It’s their dedication to keeping you well that helps us ensure the safety of everyone who visits any of our care centers.

Wellness Calendar » Advanced Cardiac Life Support, initial course: A two-day class will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 17 and 19 at Inspira Health Network Vineland. Call (856) 641-7535.

3 The Daily Journal – Health Connection December 2015

» Advanced Cardiac Life Support, recertification: A class will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 10 and 24 and 5 p.m. to finish Sept. 28 at Inspira Health Network Vineland. Call (856) 641-7535. » Alcoholics Anonymous: Meetings will be held at 7:30 p.m. Saturdays at Inspira Health Network Bridgeton Health Center and 11a.m. Sundays at Inspira Health Network Elmer. Call (800) 322-5525. » Alzheimer’s Disease Support Group: The Alzheimer’s Support Group of Cumberland County meets at 7 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month at the Millville Center of Genesis Eldercare, 54 Sharp St., Millville. Call (856) 691-3079. » Alzheimer’s Family Caregiver Support Groups: The group will meet at 7 p.m. Sept. 28 at the Friends’ Home in Woodstown. Call (800) 272-3900 or (856) 823-0242. The group will also meet at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 17 at Inspira Medical Center Woodbury, Suite 14. Call (856) 853-2114. » Autism Support: Cumberland County Autism Links is an organization that links high functioning autistic and Asperger preteens and teens socially with others on the spectrum while learning social skills. This group meets every Thursday from 4:45 to 6 p.m. at Fourth Methodist Church, 308 Kates Blvd., Millville. Emailmemom52@verizon.net or call (856) 332-2433. » Bariatric Information Session: An information session for people who are considering bariatric (weight loss) surgery, including gastric bypass and Lap Band procedures, will be held from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Sept. 16 and 23 at Inspira Health Network Fitness Connection. Registration is required. Call (888) 661- 8017. » Bariatric Support Group: A bariatric pre-surgery group meets at Inspira Health Network Fitness Connection. In addition, a “new beginnings” group for those in the first year after weight-loss surgery will be held from 7 to 8 p.m. Sept. 2, and a “graduate” support group for those who are one to five years postop will meet from 7 to 8 p.m. Sept. 9. Call (856) 641-8398. » Blood Drives: The American Red Cross regularly schedules blood drives in South Jersey. Call (800) GIVE-LIFE or visit http://www.redcrossblood.org. » Brain Injury Support: A support group for people who have suffered brain injuries meets at 7 p.m. on the first Tuesday of every month at the HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Vineland, 1237 W. Sherman Ave., Vineland. Call (856) 697-7342. » Breastfeeding Class: Class will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. Sept. 9 at Inspira Health Network Vineland. Call (856) 641-7535. » Breastfeeding Support: Mother to Mother support for nursing moms is provided by La Leche League of Vineland at 9:30 a.m. on the second Wednesday of each month. For location or assistance, emailPGardella1@comcast.net or call (856) 691-9569. » Breastfeeding and Back to Work: A class will be held from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Sept. 1 in the aerobic room at Inspira Health Network Fitness Connection. Call (856) 641-7535. » Cancer Program: The American Cancer Society’s “Look Good, Feel Better” program will be offered from 7 to 9 p.m. Sept. 16 at Inspira Health Network Scarpa Cancer Center. This free program teaches female cancer patients beauty techniques to help restore their appearance and self-image during chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Registration is required. Call (800) 227- 2345. » Cancer Resource Center: Open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the Breast Cancer Bridge Program Office at the Inspira Health Network Elmer. There also is a 24-hour center in the waiting area of the Transitional Care Unit at

4 The Daily Journal – Health Connection December 2015

Inspira Medical Center Vineland. No appointment is necessary. » Cancer Screenings: Free screenings for breast, cervical, prostate and colorectal cancers are offered at Inspira Health Network Scarpa Cancer Center. The services are available to uninsured people, ages 40 to 64. For an appointment, call (856) 641-8686. » Cancer Support: Inspira Health Network’s Oncology Bridge Program offers support for women diagnosed with breast cancer. A community education nurse who also is a breast cancer survivor will meet with the patient in person or on the phone to offer advice, information and support. Call Inspira Health Network Elmer at (856) 363- 1514. » Cancer Support: A women’s cancer support group will meet from 6 to 8 p.m. Sept. 29 in the conference room at the Inspira Health Network Scarpa Cancer Pavilion . Call (856) 641-8673. » Cancer Support: A prostate cancer support group will meet from 7 to 9 p.m. Sept. 23 at Inspira Health Network Fitness Connection. Call (856) 641-8674. » Cancer Support: A thyroid cancer support group will meet from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sept. 19 at Inspira Health Network Fitness Connection. Call (856) 641-8670. » Child-safety Seat Inspections: The Cumberland County Sheriff’s Department offers free child-safety seat inspections from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays at the Millville Rescue Squad, 600 Cedar St. Call (856) 451-4449, ext. 107. » Childbirth Education Class: A class will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sept. 19 at Inspira Health Network Vineland. Call (856) 641-7535. » Childbirth Education Class: Inspira offers an online childbirth education class — available at your convenience. Call (856) 641-7535. » Childbirth Refresher Class: Call (856) 641-7535. » Childbirth/Maternity Tour: Free tours of Inspira’s maternity areas are available. Call (800) 467-7472. » Children’s Health: The STEPS program, open to children ages 8 to 12 and their parents, teaches fitness and nutrition to kids. Free classes are available in Vineland and Bridgeton. Call (856) 507-8565 or (856) 507-8568 or visit http://www.sjhsteps.com. » Children’s Health: A pediatric weight management program, for children ages 6 to 11and their parents, is offered at Inspira Medical Center Woodbury. Call (856) 853-2141. » Community Healthcare: Families now are being enrolled in Complete- Care, which covers doctors visits, prescriptions and hospital stays for low-income uninsured adults, children or caregivers. Call (856) 451-4700, ext. 2047. » CPR, community class: Classes are held at Inspira Health Network Fitness Connection. Call (856) 696-3924. » CPR, Heartsaver or Healthcare Provider course: Classes are held at Inspira Health Network Vineland. Call (856) 641-7535. » CPR, Healthcare Provider initial course: The course will be held from 6 to 10:30 p.m. Sept. 8, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 12, 6 to 10:30 p.m. Sept. 16, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 26 at Inspira Health Network Vineland. Call (856) 641-7535. Also offered in November at Inspira Health Network Elmer. Call (856) 641-7535.

5 The Daily Journal – Health Connection December 2015

» CPR, Healthcare Provider renewal: The course will be held from 6 to 10:30 p.m. Sept. 3, 8 to 11:30 a.m. Sept. 8, 6 to 10:30 p.m. Sept. 10 and 17, 8 to 11:30 a.m. Sept. 22 and 6 to 10:30 p.m. Sept. 24 at Inspira Health Network Vineland. Call (856) 641-7535. Also offered 6 to 10 p.m. Sept. 15 and 28 at Inspira Health Network Elmer. Call (856) 641-7535. » Diabetes Exercise Program: Classes are held at Inspira Health Network Fitness Connection. Call (856) 696-3924. » Diabetes Self-Management Education: Offered by Inspira Medical Center Woodbury, this program provides basic information about diabetes to people diagnosed with the disease. Registration is required. Call (856) 853- 2141. » Diabetes Workshop: “Understanding Diabetes,” a free class, will be held from noon to 1p.m. Sept. 9 and 23 at Inspira Health Network Vineland, and noon to 1 p.m. Sept. 3 and 13 at Inspira Health Network Elmer. Registration is required. Call (856) 641-7535. » Diabetes and Pregnancy: Class will be held at Inspira Health Network Vineland. Registration is required. Call (856) 641-7535 for dates and times. » Exercise: PIT/Performance Improvement Training offers life skills and athletic development for kids at Inspira Health Network Fitness Connection. Call (856) 696-3924. » Exercise: PREP/Physician Referred Exercise Program at Inspira Health Network Fitness Connection. Call (856) 696-3924. » Grief Support: “Helping Hands” is a support group for parents who have lost an infant or experienced a miscarriage. Call (856) 207-0257 or (856) 641- 7509. » Grief Support: A support group for adults living with a loss meets for daytime and evening sessions. For a schedule or more information, call Inspira Medical Center at (856) 575-4277. » Heart and Lung Support Group: The group meets at Inspira Health Network Vineland. Registration is required. Call (856) 641-7748. » Hospice Volunteer Training: Inspira Health Network Hospice Care offers information regarding volunteer service and or training. Call (856) 213- 9869.Immunizations: Shots for Tots of Cumberland County offers free immunizations for uninsured children up to age 18. Children must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who must present an up-to-date shot record. The schedule includes: 9 a.m. to noon on the third Wednesday of the month at Vineland Public Health Nursing Site, Suite 1, 610 Montrose St., Vineland; 10 a.m. to noon on the fourth Thursday of the month at Cumberland County Health Department, 309 Buck St., Millville; and 10 a.m. to noon on the second Thursday of the month at Gateway Community Action Partnership, 110 Cohansey St., Bridgeton. Call (856) 794-4000, ext. 4806, or (856) 327-7602. » Mental Illness: The National Alliance on Mental Illness Cumberland County Chapter meets from 7 to 9 p.m. on the third Monday of each month at Chestnut Assembly of God, 2554 E. Chestnut Ave., Vineland. Call (856) 691- 9234 or (856) 305-5486. » Narcotics Anonymous: Narcotics Anonymous meets throughout the week in various locations throughout Cumberland and Salem counties. For a meeting list, visithttp://www.csascna.org or http://www.nanj.org. » Parenting Support: Baby Talk Tuesdays, join the group for a discussion group of parenting issues, for moms with babies and tots to age 3, from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Tuesdays in Aerobic Room II at Inspira Health Network Fitness

6 The Daily Journal – Health Connection December 2015

Connection. Call (856) 641-7535. » Parenting Support: The next newborn/grandparent class will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. Sept. 14 at Inspira Health Network Vineland. Call (856) 641-7535. » Pediatric Advanced Life Support, initial course: A two-day class will be held in October at Inspira Health Network Vineland. Call (856) 641-7535. » Pediatric Advanced Life Support, recertification: A course will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 14 at Inspira Health Network Vineland. Call (856) 641-7535. » Senior Class: This class is for seniors who want to make new friends, learn about healthy living and enjoy an educational luncheon with fellow senior citizens. The next class will be held in October at the Inspira Health Network Fitness Connection. Registration is required. Call (856) 575-4214. » Tai Chi: Classes are held at Inspira Health Network Fitness Connection. Call (856) 696-3924. » Weight Management: One-on-one weight management counseling is available through Inspira Health Network’s Outpatient Nutrition Department. A physician prescription is required, as well as insurance and referral if necessary. Patients should check with their individual health plan to see if services of a registered dietitian are covered. For an appointment, call Inspira Health Network Vineland at (866) 754-2778 or (856) 575-4887 or Inspira Medical Center Woodbury at (856) 853- 2141. » Weight Management: BetterFit Weight Loss is a 12-week program that includes consultations with a certified personal trainer and a registered dietitian at Inspira Health Network Fitness Connection. Call (856) 696-3924. » Wellness Sessions: Sessions will be held at 11:30 a.m. on the last Friday of each month at Inspira Health Network Fitness Connection. Call (856) 696-3924. » Yoga: Classes are held at Inspira Health Network Fitness Connection. Call (856) 696-3924. » Yoga Mommies: A six-week class will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Sundays at Inspira Health Network Fitness Connection. Call (856) 696-3924.

1 Press of Atlantic City December 11, 2015

Should nonprofit hospitals pay more to towns? Posted: Friday, December 11, 2015 11:30 am MICHELLE BRUNETTI POST, Staff Writer

Nonprofit hospitals may soon pay some property taxes, creating a new stream of income for Atlantic City and other towns. A bill introduced this week in the state Legislature would set a $2.50 per bed per day fee to be paid to towns in which the hospitals are located. The money would be used for police, fire and other public safety costs or for tax relief. Traditionally, nonprofit hospitals have been exempt from paying property taxes, while their for-profit arms have not. But a state Tax Court judge this summer upheld Morristown’s revocation of tax-exempt status for Morristown Medical Center in Morris County, saying profit-making activity was so interwoven into the hospital’s activities it should begin paying property taxes on most of its real estate. That got towns all over the state thinking about how they might collect some payments from their own medical centers. Before the Hospital Community Service Contribution Bill was introduced, both Atlantic City Mayor Don Guardian and Galloway Township Mayor Don Purdy said they were aware of the tax court decision and already in talks with AtlantiCare about the issues. If the legislation passes, AtlantiCare’s Atlantic City campus, with 244 beds, would pay the resort $222,650 per year for its hospital campus. Its Galloway Township campus, with 349 beds, would pay the township $318,463 per year. AtlantiCare Director of Government Relations and Senior Services Frank Blee said AtlantiCare is watching the legislation closely. It is sponsored by state Senate President Steve Sweeney, D-Cumberland, Gloucester, Salem. “We are reviewing the draft. This is bigger than just AtlantiCare. We are working closely with NJHA,” Blee said, referring to the New Jersey Hospital Association. “From a cooperative standpoint they are trying to come up with a broad-based solution that is fair to hospitals and municipalities.” The legislation would also require hospitals’ satellite emergency centers to pay their host municipalities a $750 per day flat charge. That would mean a $273,750 annual payment to Hammonton for AtlantiCare’s emergency center there, Blee said.

2 Press of Atlantic City December 11, 2015

Inspira also has a satellite emergency center in Bridgeton, a spokesman said. It would pay the amount to that city. The payments would be in addition to $1.7 million AtlantiCare already pays in property taxes to 18 communities in Atlantic, Cape May and southern Ocean counties, with about $1.1 million of that paid annually to Egg Harbor Township for its AtlantiCare Health Park, according to documents provided by AtlantiCare. AtlantiCare pays real estate taxes on owned and rental real estate used in for-profit efforts. Sites include, but are not limited to, physician and staff office space, ambulatory care sites, surgery centers, urgent care centers, primary and specialty care sites, and storage, a spokesperson said. Rather than continue to appeal, Atlantic Health, parent of Morristown Medical Center in Morris County, settled with the North Jersey town last month. It agreed to pay property taxes on 24 percent of its campus, which will amount to about $1.05 million per year. It will also pay $5.5 million in interest and penalties back to 2006. Blee said Morristown Medical Center has much of its for-profit activity based on the hospital campus. AtlantiCare, on the other hand, has most of its for-profit side spread out across the county and region in about 100 off-campus sites. “My take is it’s a reasonable starting point,” NJHA President and CEO Betsy Ryan said about the legislation. “We wanted to see some certainty around the issue. The Morristown tax case created a great deal of uncertainty for hospitals and municipalities.” The bill would require the municipalities to share 5 percent of the payments with their county governments. Atlantic County’s annual take on the Atlantic City, Galloway, Somers Point and Hammonton fees, which together amount to slightly more than $1 million a year, would be about $54,000. Shore Medical Center in Somers Point, which has 290 beds and would have to pay $264,625 per year to the city if the legislation passes, would not comment on the tax court case or legislation. Shore is valued at more than $258 million, but of that only $8.5 million is taxable, according to city records. The fee would be in addition to the $239,000 Shore already pays Somers Point for its properties used in for-profit activities, such as buildings rented to doctors.

3 Press of Atlantic City December 11, 2015

The hospital has also been making an additional voluntary contribution of $100,000 to the city, said Administrator Wes Swain, under a five-year agreement that ends in 2016. So if the law passes, new funds coming from the hospital would be about $164,625. Somers Point Mayor Jack Glasser said a committee is currently reviewing how to address hospital taxes. “I would like to see them help out a little more,” Glasser said. With a struggling area economy, municipalities are looking at ways to take the tax burden off residential property owners, Glasser said. “We are operating as lean as we can,” Glasser said. “Everyone is looking at ways to increase revenue, and this could be one way, but we will have to see what the state says.” If Shore Medical Center were fully taxed it would pay more than $7.2 million in taxes, according to city records. For comparison, the tax levy for the entire town on the 2015 budget was approximately $10.3 million. “It’s a delicate balance,” Glasser said of the tax situation with the hospital. “The hospital is a great member of the community. They contribute to a variety of community events that we host, including our beach concerts.”

1 Press of Atlantic City

Hospitals giving patients the silent treatment Posted: Saturday, December 12, 2015 10:00 am MAXWELL REIL, Staff Writer

Silence may not be golden, but it apparently helps

patients feel better about their time in hospitals.

So Tom Pacek has been looking at ways to make

hospitals quieter in the Inspira Health Network.

One of the loudest hospitals — and one with low patient-

satisfaction scores — was Inspira Medical Center

Vineland.

“You’d know it right from the get-go, and it was bad. We

heard that in our satisfaction scores,” said Pacek,

Inspira’s corporate chief information officer.

Pacek tried numerous technologies before deciding on

Practice Unite as a partner for the system’s Quiet

Hospital Initiative, which focused on eliminating amplified calls for doctors or staff members to better

suit patients.

The new system allows nurses to connect with physicians through a secure, encrypted application on

their phones. Officials say the technology has cut calls on the overhead paging system from more

than 150 a day to three.

And the initiative, which started about a year ago, has produced results for Inspira. The Vineland

facility’s HCAHPS — or Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems —

scores for hospital quietness went up 26 percent.

The shift to pleasing patients has become a focus of the national Medicare plan, said Stuart Hochron,

chief medical officer of Practice Unite.

“The reimbursements that hospitals receive through Medicare depend, in part, on patient satisfaction.

So it’s important that hospitals (retain) high standards,” he said.

But some critics believe relying solely on surveys may take away from the overall mission — to get

patients well and out of the hospital as quickly as possible.

Alexandra Robbins, author of “The Nurses: A Year of Secrets, Drama and Miracles with the Heroes of

the Hospital,” said nurses can be misrepresented due to bad survey scores.

December 12, 2015

2 Press of Atlantic City

“People don’t necessarily realize that in some cases, nurses’ and doctors’ salaries, bonuses or

evaluations are being tied to the survey scores,” Robbins said. “Patient satisfaction is important, but

these surveys do not necessarily reflect the actual medical care the patients received.”

But Hochron said the new apps at Vineland and other hospitals are intended to improve nurses’ lives,

too.

“The role of mobile technology in health care and Practice Unite’s goal in Inspira and elsewhere is to

reduce the workload of the nurse by making greater use of mobile technology,” Hochron said.

Pacek said physicians have also adapted to the new technology, after initial hesitance.

“They had some trepidation. They didn’t want to be interrupted with a patient,” Pacek said. “This (app)

allows them to do their workflow as it is and respond appropriately. Nurses like the fact that

physicians are getting back to them in a timely fashion. It’s direct feedback and has been well

received.”

Hochron said that in the next two years, 30 percent of all Medicare payments in hospitals will be

based solely on the value that has been delivered to the patients and the outcome. That’s measured

by factors such as length of stay, cost and patient health.

Pacek said the hospital will be adjusting details of the app over the next few months, including how

many times the phone will ring and the ability for the app to know which doctors are in the hospital or

which ones replaced others.

Pacek said the customizing features in the phone are important for the staff and, in turn, will benefit

the patient’s experience.

This begins with a silent environment.

“Most of all, when you walk in our hospitals, it’s quiet, and that is something we are very happy

about,” he said.

December 12, 2015

1 Press of Atlantic City December 15, 2015

Michael Ein / Staff Photographer Inspira Health Network in Vineland. Wednesday Dec. 9, 2015.

Inspira improving precision in breast cancer surgery Posted: Tuesday, December 15, 2015 1:34 pm Press Staff Reports

Inspira Health Network is improving its precision in breast cancer surgery, the hospital says. According to a press release from the hospital, Inspira’s breast surgical oncologist Elizabeth Revesz recently performed the first lumpectomy in the Delaware Valley using technology for more precise breast-conserving lumpectomies. Revesz used the SAVI SCOUT surgical guidance system, which uses real time audible and visual indicators to give surgeons a precise way to target issues during lumpectomy and excisional biopsy procedures, the hospital said. The technology replaces the need for needle tumor localization, which has been used for the last 20 years or so. “Our focus is always on finding better options for our patients,” Dr. Revesz, breast surgical oncologist at Inspira Health Network said in a press release. “This new system helps us to more accurately locate the tumor in order to increase the rates of complete cancer removal, preserve healthy tissue and decrease the number of repeat surgeries a patient may need.” With the new procedure, a micro reflector is placed in the target tissue by the radiologist before the surgery instead of a wire, the hospital says. During the procedure, the surgeon uses the SAVI SCOUT probe that emits non-radioactive electromagnetic waves to detect the reflector and locate the tumor to plan the incision. The probe can be used with receptors to target the tissue through real-time audio and visual guidance. The technology gives surgeons the ability to locate and remove breast tumors with more precision, Inspira says.

1 SNJ Today December 18, 2015

Inspira Health Network Nurse Receives March of Dimes Nurse of the Year Award December 18, 2015

ATLANTIC and CUMBERLAND COUNTY – The March of Dimes New Jersey chapter has announced their 2015 March of Dimes Nurse of the Year Award in the Adult Critical Care category.

Egg Harbor Township resident, Sherry Remy RN, MSN, CEN, from Inspira Health Network in Vineland, received the honor due to her leadership and dedication at Inspira. Over 196 nurses were nominated in 19 different award categories and New Jersey recipients were recognized, in the company of over 500 guests, during a gala at Pines Manor in Edison on Wednesday, November 18th. The event raised over $90,000 to improve the health of babies through the prevention of birth defects, premature birth, and infant mortality. 115 finalists represented 48 hospitals and healthcare facilities during the gala.

The event raised over $90,000 to improve the health of babies through the prevention of birth defects, premature birth, and infant mortality. 115 finalists represented 48 hospitals and healthcare facilities during the gala.

Through Nurse of the Year Awards, the March of Dimes recognizes nurses who demonstrate exceptional patient care, compassion, and service. Whether serving as a health care provider, educator, researcher, or chapter volunteer/advisor, these nurses have played a critical role in improving the health of New Jersey’s mothers and babies. Nurse of the Year Awards celebrates the nursing profession and creates awareness of the recent strides made in this growing field.Sherry Remy is the Administrative Director, Emergency Department (ED) at Inspira Health Network in Vineland and has Sherry Remy is the Administrative Director, Emergency Department at Inspira Health Network in Vineland and has worn several caps at Inspira. Remy is directly responsible for two full-service emergency departments, one 24/7 pediatric emergency department, and one satellite emergency department as well as a clinical decision (observation) unit across two counties.

2 SNJ Today December 18, 2015

The recipient also oversees patient care outcomes, patient experience ratings, financial operations, nursing professional development, community emergency management and response functions, and evidence-based continual performance improvement. Furthermore, Remy has designed and leads a project to reduce length of stay and expedite the care of patients with lower acuity needs.

The projects that Remy manages and runs require substantial collaboration between disciplines and units as well as uncompensated agreement from the individuals involved as well as education by all key stakeholders. Remy also holds additional responsibilities for the organization’s pediatric emergency department operated in conjunction with specialty physicians from DuPont Children’s Health Services which serves emergently ill pediatric patients. The pediatric emergency department provides acute and sometimes lifesaving care to over 11,500 children and infants. Remy acted as a collaborator for this specialty unit to assist hundreds of emergently ill and/or medically fragile children.

“We could not do the work of the March of Dimes without the passion and commitment of our nurses,” said Allie Hall, Central Division Executive Director, New Jersey Chapter of the March of Dimes. “This is our opportunity to show them how special they truly are.”

For more information about Inspira Health Network, visit their website athttps://www.inspirahealthnetwork.org/.

1 SNJ Today

Inspira-Jefferson Neuroscience Program Gets New Medical Director December 23, 2015 MULLICA HILL – Officials affiliated with the neuroscience program at Inspira-Jefferson have announced that Andro Zangaladze, M.D., Ph.D, is the program’s new medical director.

Dr. Zangaladze brings 27 years of combined experience in patient care as well as scientific research and academia to the position, which will require that Dr. Zangaladze provide diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of complex neurological disorders affecting the brain, spinal cord, and nerves, as well as direct a sub-specialty clinic for the treatment of epilepsy.

Dr. Zangaladze is double board certified in neurology and clinical neurophysiology. His academic background includes a medical degree from Tbilisi State Medical Institute, a doctorate of philosophy from Tbilisi Medical Academy in Georgia, as well as a completed fellowship at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital.

Prior to accepting the position at Inspira, Dr. Zangaladze served as director of neuroscience for Virtua. Prior to that he held a position as an assistant professor of neurology at Jefferson’s Comprehensive Epilepsy Center.

In January 2016, Dr. Zangaladze will begin seeing patients at Inspira Medical Group’s neurology offices in Mullica Hill and Woodbury (N.J.).

Inspira Health Network is a charitable non-profit health-care organization serving communities across southern New Jersey.

For more information about the new medical director, call 856.853.1133.

December 23, 2015

1 SNJ Today December 24, 2015

Inspira Health Network Honored at Awards Dinner in Atlantic City December 24, 2015 MULLICA HILL – Inspira Health Network’s EMS medical director and members of its paramedic team were honored during an awards dinner held in Atlantic City earlier this week.

Inspira Health Network is a charitable nonprofit health-care organization serving communities across southern New Jersey.

The New Jersey Department of Health’s Office of Emergency Medical Services acknowledged several Inspira staff members during its annual dinner. Awards provided during the event include:

Outstanding EMS Physician Award

Jay Stiefel, D.O., medical director of Emergency Medical Services (EMS) for Inspira and an emergency department physician at Inspira Medical Center in Woodbury. Dr. Stiefel has been an emergency physician with Inspira Woodbury for more than 16 years and was appointed medical director of EMS in 2003.

Outstanding EMS Call of the Year Award

Inspira paramedics Todd Rapczynski, George Petit, and Debbie Rizzo received the award for their lifesaving actions on a patient involved in a motorcycle accident. Members of Vineland’s EMS team and Cooper University Health’s flight team were co-recipients of the award.

The Director Award

Inspira paramedic Nicholas Franceschini received the award for his role with the Papal Visit EMS Task Force team.

The Inspira Health Network, which traces its roots to 1899, comprises three hospitals, a comprehensive cancer center, several multi-specialty health centers, and a total of more than 60 locations.

For more information about Inspira Health Network, visit InspiraHealthNetwork.org.

1 SNJ Today December 28, 2015

Carol Thomas (left) new vice president of population health, and Joe Piccolo (right) new vice president of corporate compliance and chief compliance officer.

Inspira Health Network Announces Two New VPs December 28, 2015 MULLICA HILL – Inspira Health Network has appointed two new vice presidents in the areas of population health and corporate compliance.

Carol Thomas has been appointed the vice president of population health, while Joe Piccolo will take on the role of vice president of corporate compliance and chief compliance officer.

Thomas joins Inspira with more than 40 years of health-care experience with expertise in implementing initiatives to improve population health. She attended the University of Pennsylvania, where she received a bachelor of arts, master of science, and master of philosophy in organizational dynamics. Previously she served as the executive director for Tristate Health Partners PHO and the Tristate Meritus ACO at Meritus Health System in Maryland.

Piccolo brings more than 25 years of experience in healthcare administration to Inspira. He is certified in healthcare compliance by the Healthcare Compliance Certification Board. Piccolo holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania and a master of business administration from LaSalle University. Throughout his career, he has published articles on several different topics, including compliance program effectiveness, patient privacy and physician practice management.

Before joining Inspira, Piccolo served as the vice president of integrity and compliance for Trinity Health’s St. Mary Medical Center in Pennsylvania.

1 SNJ Today December 28, 2015

The Inspira Auxiliary Cumberland County Names its 2015 Auxilian of the Year Recipient December 28, 2015 VINELAND – The Inspira Auxiliary Cumberland County has named its 2015 Auxilian of the Year.

Erika Friedman has been honored with the distinction due to her hard work and dedication to the Inspira Foundation of Cumberland and Salem Counties.

“Erika has devoted herself to raising money and awareness in support of Inspira Health Network, both as a regular member and a board member,” said Carolyn Heckman, executive director of the Inspira Foundation Cumberland/Salem.

The Inspira Auxiliary Cumberland County is a division of the Inspira Health Network Foundation Cumberland/Salem, and the volunteers of the Auxiliary contribute their time to support the activities and goals of the foundation and raise money and awareness for the continued health and welfare of the community.

“I would like to thank the Auxiliary for this honor, and every individual who has given their time and energy to help this worthy cause,” said Friedman. “Our amazing volunteers make it possible to accomplish so much good through events and fundraisers like our vendor sales and the annual Princess Party.”

For more information about Inspira Health Network, contact 856.641.8290 or visitCS.InspiraFoundation.net.

1 SNJ Today December 31, 2015

March of Dimes New Jersey Honors Inspira Nurses December 31, 2015 MULLICA HILL – Officials at Inspira Health Network announced that three of its nurses have received the 2015 Nurse of the Year Award from the March of Dimes New Jersey Chapter.

The nurses include Sandy Lovelace, BSN, RN, CGRN; Sherry Remy, MSN, RN, CEN; and Reenie Sacchetti, MS, RT(R).

Each year the March of Dimes acknowledges nurses across the nation who demonstrate exceptional patient care, compassion, and service.

Lovelace, assistant nurse manager for the Inspira Medical Center Woodbury Acute Care of the Elderly Unit, received the March of Dimes award in the “General Medical Adult Care” category. She is nationally certified in geriatric nursing and has 30 years of clinical nursing experience. She also serves as a moderator for the women’s group at Pitman Presbyterian Church and treasurer for West Jersey Presbyterian Women.

Remy, administrative director of emergency departments at Inspira Medical Center Vineland, received the March of Dimes award in the “Emergency Room Care” category. She has 19 years of emergency-department management experience. Since 2008, Remy has served as administrative director of Inspira’s Bridgeton, Elmer, and Vineland emergency departments. She also is in charge of Inspira Medical Center Vineland’s Pediatric Emergency Department.

Sacchetti, vice president of clinical services at Inspira Medical Center Woodbury, received the March of Dimes award in the “Nurse Champion” category. Sacchetti has been part of the hospital’s management team since 2007. She works closely with nurses on various projects, including the opening of a specialty orthopedic unit. She has helped to bring state-of-the-art services to Inspira, including advanced 3D mammography for breast cancer screening and Gloucester County’s first and only emergency PCI intervention program for patients experiencing a heart attack.

Seven other nurses from Inspira Health Network were named as finalists for the awards, including Sami Abate, MSHS, MSN, RN, CCRN; Chris Bair, RN; Carol Copsey, MSN, RN-BC; Angela Dare, MSN, MBA, RN, CNOR; Marlene Fischer, BSN, RN; Julie Powers, MSN, RN, PCCN, NE-BC; and Emily Turnure, MSN, RN, NEA-BC.

More than 196 nurses were nominated in 19 different award categories. New Jersey award recipients were announced at a special awards gala on November 18, 2015, at Pines Manor in Edison, N.J. The event included 115 finalists from 48 different hospitals and healthcare facilities. The gala raised more than $90,000, which will go toward improving the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth, and infant mortality.

March of DImes' 2015 Nurse of the Year recipients: Reenie Sacchetti, Sherry Remy, and Sandy Lovelace.

1 South Jersey Times December 1, 2015

Michael McLaughlin, chair, Joint Inspira Medical Centers Board of Trustees, seated left; John DiAngelo, chief executive officer of Inspira Health Network; Patrick Nolan, chief operating officer of Inspira Medical Center Woodbury, left ; and Bruce A. Monaghan, M.D., orthopedic surgeon and vice president of the Inspira Woodbury medical staff

Inspira Medical Center Woodbury opens Orthopedic Unit

By Staff | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com on December 01, 2015 at 3:21 PM, updated December 01, 2015 at 3:22 PM

WOODBURY — At the open house for the new orthopedic medical/surgical unit at Inspira Medical Center Woodbury, guests were encouraged to sit in the car simulator which is used to teach joint replacement patients how to easily get in and out of their vehicles.

The totally renovated patient floor features — private rooms with all new furniture that is height-adjustable to accommodate the orthopedic patient's ease of mobility and wheelchairs; a large rehab gym; new solarium and an education room.

Inspira Health Network is a charitable nonprofit health care organization serving communities across southern New Jersey. The network, which traces its roots to 1899, comprises three hospitals, a comprehensive cancer center, several multi-specialty health centers and a total of more than 60 locations.

Together with its medical staff of more than 1,100 physicians and other care providers, as well as more than 5,700 employees, Inspira Health Network provides evidence-based care to help each patient achieve the best possible outcome. Accredited by DNV Healthcare, the network's clinical and support staffs are focused on providing quality care in a safe environment. For more information about Inspira Health Network, visit InspiraHealthNetwork.org or call1-800-INSPIRA.

1 South Jersey Times

Inspira Hospice offers Interfaith Service of the Longest Night

By Staff | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com on December 07, 2015 at 11:01 AM, updated December 07, 2015 at 11:07 AM

Inspira Hospice Spiritual Care Team will be offering an "Interfaith Service of the Longest Night" on Monday, Dec. 21, hosted at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 2384 E. Landis Ave. in Vineland.

The holidays can be a painful time for some. It may be the first season without a loved family member who has recently died; it may be a time that has always been difficult.

The constant refrain on the radio and television, in shopping malls and many public places about the happiness of the season, about getting together with family and friends, reminds many people of what they have lost or have never had. The loss of a loved one or cherished friend, the anguish of broken relationships, the weariness of ill health, the pain of isolation — all these can make us feel very alone in the midst of celebrating and spending. We need space and time to acknowledge our sadness and concern; we need to know that we are not alone.

Our spirits sink, as the days grow shorter. We feel the darkness growing deeper around us. We need encouragement to live the days ahead of us. It is for these reasons Inspira Hospice Spiritual Care Team is offering this very special time together held on the longest night of the year.

The community is invited to come out and join with us in sharing and hearing prayers, interfaith scripture, readings and beautiful, soothing music that acknowledge God's presence for those who mourn, for those who struggle — and that there is hope in and amidst the darkness. Everyone is invited!

This short service will be followed by a brief time for light refreshments and fellowship.

December 07, 2015

1 South Jersey Times December 7, 2015

Betsy O'Brien, Maternal Child Health educator has been honored as Inspira Medical Center Woodbury's Leader of the Quarter

Inspira Woodbury names Leader of the Quarter .

By Staff | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

on December 07, 2015 at 2:13 PM, updated December 07, 2015 at 2:14 PM

WOODBURY — Betsy O'Brien, MSN, RN-BC, CCE, a resident of Audubon, has been chosen by the senior administration of Inspira Medical Center Woodbury as the Leader of the Quarter.

A graduate of the University of Delaware for both her bachelor's and master's degrees in Nursing, O'Brien joined the medical center in 2007.

Dedicated to meeting the education needs of the staff and teaching the variety of community childbirth education courses, O'Brien, a nurse for 38 years, especially enjoys helping the nurses, who are pursuing advanced degrees, with their school projects and papers.

"In my short time here, I have quickly learned that Betsy is the soul of this unit," noted Dawn Goffredo, director of Maternal Child Health.

As a member of the board for Story Storks, an organization that provides books for new parents, O'Brien was instrumental in bringing this program to Inspira Woodbury. For the past two years, volunteers visit each new mother to give them their child's first book, adorned with the baby's footprints.

O'Brien holds two certifications, professional development and maternal/newborn nursing. She is a member of the NJ Society for Health Education and Training, Sigma Thea Tau and the Association of Women's Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses.

1 South Jersey Times December 10, 2015

New hospital in South Jersey? Upcoming vote will decide

By Spencer Kent | For NJ.com on December 10, 2015 at 6:30 AM, updated December 10, 2015 at 9:20

HARRISON TWP. — The Rowan University Board of Trustees is scheduled to vote next week on an agreement with Inspira Health Network to build a new hospital on land the college owns in Gloucester County.

"There is a proposal from Inspira," said Rowan spokesman Joe Cardona, "and it's reached a point where it is in the process of being reviewed by the various boards."

Cardona said a university committee, which he would not name, still needed to vote on the proposal before it went to the board of trustees next week. However, Cardona also noted that even if that committee balked on the measure, the proposal could still go forward.

Officials in September said that they expected Inspira Health Network to build the hospital in Harrison Township alongside Route 55 where it meets Route 322, previous reports said. The parcel is currently owned by Rowan University.

Inspira spokesman Greg Potter spoke briefly Wednesday evening about the upcoming vote and said, "We are just awaiting the next step and ... awaiting the result of the vote."

The Harrison Township Committee took a significant step in facilitating the proposal when it voted Monday to relinquish ownership of a road to Rowan University that would act as a primary access point to the proposed facility, according to Harrison Township Mayor Lou Manzo.

"We moved forward with finalizing that on Monday night because ... we understand that the conversation is progressing, and (Rowan University officials) are finalizing some of those details before going forward with a vote," Manzo said, who added that the information was based on conversations with members of the university's board of trustees.

2 South Jersey Times December 10, 2015

Inspira plans carry impact in Harrison, Woodbury

Inspira's proposal to leave Woodbury and open a new hospital in Mullica Hill have far-reaching effects on the two municipalities.

Rowan and Inspira officials both have been hesitant to discuss the proposal since negotiations began several months ago. In September, hospital officials said that numerous sites were under consideration — even though the Harrison site was the only one specifically referenced in a statement issued that month.

If approved by the board of trustees next week, it would solidify the deal — pending any provisions. After that, it is unclear when construction on the project would begin.

The board of trustees is scheduled to meet on Dec. 16 at 3 p.m.

1 South Jersey Times December 11, 2015

One third of N.J. hospitals penalized for persistent infections and errors

In its attempt to push for improvements in hospital-acquired infections, the federal government will withhold some Medicare funds from hospitals that fail to show marked improvement. (Patti Sapone/The Star-Ledger)

By Kathleen O'Brien | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

on December 11, 2015 at 9:11 AM

About a third of New Jersey hospitals will be docked 1 percent of their Medicare payments next year because of poor performance in preventing hospital-acquired infections or errors.

Nationally, the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services estimates the penalized hospitals will end up saving the taxpayer $364 million in withheld payments. There was no estimate for how money money New Jersey hospitals would lose.

Hospitals are graded on their record for preventing bedsores, central catheter infections, post-operative hip fractures, post-operative sepsis, as well as accidental punctures or lacerations.

Of the 63 New Jersey hospitals for which the government collects this type of data, 21 fell into the group whose scores triggered the pay cut.

2 South Jersey Times December 11, 2015

Overall, attention to the problem has resulted in a 17 percent drop in cases of preventable, hospital-acquired conditions, according to a result report by the federal government.

A spokeswoman for the New Jersey Hospital Association cautioned that the "score" given to each hospital doesn't necessarily reflect the full picture.

"The methodology scores hospitals only on the measures for which they have sufficient data. If a hospital has too little data, the methodology plugs in the average performance of similar-sized hospitals. That can put large urban hospitals and teaching hospitals – those that care for large numbers of complex cases – at a disadvantage," said Kerry McKean. "In fact, you can see hospitals make significant improvements in their rates, but they can still land among the penalized hospitals because of the way this program is set up."

The penalties are part of the Affordable Care Act's push to link federal funds to quality care. Instead of having Medicare simply pay doctors and hospitals for whatever services are provided, the system is gradually being altered to pay them based on how well their patients do.

RELATED: 4 N.J. hospitals given top marks by national rating group

Alan Lieber, the CEO of Overlook Medical Center in Summit, said his facility has turned up on the list because in part because it is still working to train its staff to understand the ramifications of proper record-keeping.

The hospital's score has improved from last year to this year, and preliminary data indicates it will improve next year as well. "Next year, we'll be well below the penalty range," Lieber said.

"Still, we know there's always more to be done to ensure quality care and patient safety." The hospital has ramped up its screening of surgical patients for blood clots - and in the process, has documented more. However, some of those clots are quite tiny, not large enough to be considered worrisome. If a doctor doesn't distinguish between the two in his or her surgical record, that can lower a hospital's score, said Steve Moran, director of quality and outcomes for Atlantic Health, the parent company of Overlook.

"This is not an issue unique to here," he said.

3 South Jersey Times December 11, 2015

He gave another example: Surgeons who have to cut away scar tissue during abdominal operations sometimes note that in the record in a way that could be misinterpreted as being accidental - as if they dropped the scalpel. That misunderstanding of the situation can also lower a hospital's safety score.

Despite those problems, the hospital supports the notion of basing payments on quality, said Lieber said. "They help everyone focus on delivering quality."

A spokeswoman for Capital Health, which had one of the worst scores, said, "Many hospitals receiving penalties are those, like Capital Health, that perform complex surgeries and provide tertiary care to very sick patients who require the most intensive level of care."

Capital Health's current data - which will be reflected in future reports - show "significant improvement," said Steffanie Archbald, spokeswoman for the hospital.

In New Jersey, that push towards averting errors has resulted in preventing 13,730 cases of patient harm and saving $120 million, according to a study done by the hospital association.

"Still, we know there's always more to be done to ensure quality care and patient safety," said McKean.

Hospital scores for infections/errors

HOSPITAL PENALIZED? SCORE (Above 6.75 triggers

penalty)

ATLANTICARE REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER No 6.75

BAYONNE MEDICAL CENTER No 3.25

BAYSHORE COMMUNITY HOSPITAL No 5.5

BERGEN REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER No 5

CAPE REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER INC No 4

CAPITAL HEALTH MEDICAL CENTER - HOPEWELL Yes 9.5

CAPITAL HEALTH REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER Yes 8.25

CAREPOINT HEALTH-CHRIST HOSPITAL No 6.25

4 South Jersey Times December 11, 2015

HOSPITAL PENALIZED? SCORE (Above 6.75 triggers

penalty)

CENTRASTATE MEDICAL CENTER Yes 7.75

CHILTON MEDICAL CENTER No 6.25

CLARA MAASS MEDICAL CENTER No 4.5

COMMUNITY MEDICAL CENTER No 5.25

COOPER UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL Yes 8.75

DEBORAH HEART AND LUNG CENTER No 3.63

EAST ORANGE GENERAL HOSPITAL No 2.25

ENGLEWOOD HOSPITAL AND MEDICAL CENTER No 3.25

HACKENSACK UMC AT PASCACK VALLEY No 5.25

HACKENSACK UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER No 6.5

HACKENSACKUMC MOUNTAINSIDE Yes 8.25

HACKETTSTOWN REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER No 5.5

HOBOKEN UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER No 6.5

HOLY NAME MEDICAL CENTER No 6

HOSPITAL Penalized? Score (6.75 or higher is

triggers penalty)

HUNTERDON MEDICAL CENTER No 4

INSPIRA MEDICAL CENTER ELMER No 6.75

INSPIRA MEDICAL CENTER VINELAND Yes 7.75

INSPIRA MEDICAL CENTER WOODBURY No 3

JERSEY CITY MEDICAL CENTER No 3

JERSEY SHORE UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER No 6.5

JFK MEDICAL CENTER No 6.5

5 South Jersey Times December 11, 2015

HOSPITAL PENALIZED? SCORE (Above 6.75 triggers

penalty)

KENNEDY UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL No 6.25

LOURDES MEDICAL CENTER OF BURLINGTON COUNTY

Yes 8

MEADOWLANDS HOSPITAL MEDICAL CENTER No 6.5

MEMORIAL HOSPITAL OF SALEM COUNTY No 6

MONMOUTH MEDICAL CENTER No 6.25

MONMOUTH MEDICAL CENTER - SOUTHERN CAMPUS

No 6

MORRISTOWN MEDICAL CENTER No 5

NEWARK BETH ISRAEL MEDICAL CENTER No 6.75

NEWTON MEDICAL CENTER No 4.75

OCEAN MEDICAL CENTER Yes 7.25

OUR LADY OF LOURDES MEDICAL CENTER No 5.5

OVERLOOK MEDICAL CENTER Yes 7.5

PALISADES MEDICAL CENTER Yes 7.5

RARITAN BAY MEDICAL CENTER No 5.75

RIVERVIEW MEDICAL CENTER Yes 8

ROBERT WOOD JOHNSON UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL Yes 9

ROBERT WOOD JOHNSON UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL - SOMERSET

Yes 7.25

ROBERT WOOD JOHNSON UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL AT HAMILTON

Yes 8

ROBERT WOOD JOHNSON UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL AT RAHWAY

No 1.75

6 South Jersey Times December 11, 2015

HOSPITAL PENALIZED? SCORE (Above 6.75 triggers

penalty)

SAINT BARNABAS MEDICAL CENTER No 5.5

SAINT CLARE'S HOSPITAL No 4.25

SAINT FRANCIS MEDICAL CENTER No 4.75

SAINT MICHAEL'S MEDICAL CENTER, INC Yes 7.5

SAINT PETER'S UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL Yes 7.75

SHORE MEDICAL CENTER No 6.5

SOUTHERN OCEAN MEDICAL CENTER Yes 7.5

ST JOSEPH'S HOSPITAL AND MEDICAL CENTER No 4.75

ST MARY'S HOSPITAL No 5.75

ST. LUKE'S WARREN HOSPITAL Yes 7.25

THE UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL Yes 9.25

TRINITAS REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER Yes 7.5

UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER OF PRINCETON AT PLAINSBORO No 5.75

VALLEY HOSPITAL Yes 8.5

VIRTUA MEMORIAL No 3.5

VIRTUA WEST JERSEY HOSPITALS No 4.25

Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

1 South Jersey Times – BEN December 17, 2015

By Jack Hummel | For NJ.com Email the author on December 17, 2015 at 4:00 PM, updated December 17, 2015 at 8:34 PM

The March of Dimes New Jersey chapter is pleased to announce that Egg Harbor Township resident Sherry Remy from Inspira Health Network in Vineland received the 2015 March of Dimes Nurse of the Year Award in the Adult Critical Care category.

Remy RN, MSN, CEN is the Administrative Director, Emergency Department (ED) at Inspira Health Network in Vineland.

She is directly responsible for two full service emergency departments, one 24/7 pediatric emergency department and one satellite emergency department and a clinical decision (observation) unit across two counties.

1 South Jersey Times

Inspira recognized for its efforts to improve care for older adults

By Staff | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

on December 17, 2015 at 3:53 PM, updated December 17, 2015 at 3:55 PM

WOODBURY — NICHE-Nurses Improving Care for Healthsystem Elders awarded its highest honor to Inspira Medical Center Woodbury in recognition of its commitment to geriatric nursing care.

NICHE is the premier designation indicating a hospital's commitment to excellence in the care of patients 65 years and older. The "Exemplar" status — the highest of four possible program levels — was assigned following a rigorous program evaluation of the current state and future goals of the NICHE program at Inspira Woodbury.

"This NICHE status signals our resolve to provide patient-centered care for older adults," explains Terri Spoltore, vice president, Patient Care Services. "Through our participation in the NICHE program, Inspira Woodbury offers evidence-based, interdisciplinary approaches that promote better outcomes, positive experiences, and improved care for the older adults. This leads to greater satisfaction rates for our patients, their families and our staff."

"We go beyond the normal expectation for our elderly through our geriatric resource nurses, geriatric certified nurses and pharmacists," noted Jackie Savage, clinical resource nurse and NICHE coordinator. "Our older patients benefit from our commitment through our team's rounding which includes participation from physicians, pharmacy, PM&R, case management, and nursing."

"I'm so excited that Inspira continues to stay focused on our senior population," added Sandy Lovelace, RN, BSN, assistant nurse manager and NICHE co-coordinator. "With our relationship with NICHE, we are able to share information and obtain new care strategies with hospitals around the country. I'm proud of this staff-driven initiative that reinforces our unit-based council's goals for patient satisfaction."

1 South Jersey Times December 18, 2015

See traffic disaster if Harrison Township hosts Inspira hospital

Inspira Medical Center Woodbury was previously Underwood-Memorial Hospital. (Andy Polhamus | For NJ.com) Matt Gray | For NJ.com

By South Jersey Times Letters

on December 18, 2015 at 12:10 PM

To the Editor:

I read the Dec. 10 South Jersey Times article ("New hospital in South Jersey? Upcoming vote will decide") regarding the possibility of Inspira Health Network building a hospital on Rowan University-owned land on U.S. Route 322 near Route 55.

This seems to be a done deal even though there was a pending Rowan meeting to finalize it. Although other sites have been discussed, this Harrison Township location seems to be the best spot for the hospital to those who have the power to approve it.

EARLIER: Harrison, Woodbury officials react to possible hospital relocation

2 South Jersey Times December 18, 2015

I have no idea who at Rowan and/or Inspira — which would buy the tract from the school — thought this location is a good idea. This hospital would be built in an area which is already way too congested. Adding Route 55 and Route 322 traffic to the mix is definitely asking for trouble.

My concern is with ambulances coming and going to the hospital, plus visitor and staff parking, combined with the existing traffic. And that's just "off season." What about during the summer months, when many people use these roads go to the shore.?

I don't know if there were public meetings on these hospital plans or not. Maybe I missed them. To me, this is a disaster waiting to happen.

Joan Pacitti

Mullica Hil

1 South Jersey Times December 19, 2015

By Jack Hummel | For NJ.com Email the author on December 19, 2015 at 6:00 AM, updated December 19, 2015 at 6:08 AM

A caring doctor The overnight doctor in the emergency room at Elmer Hospital Thursday night really made an impression.

She had a warm smile and knowledge.

Great bedside manner.

She told us she came to this country from Russia when she was 17.

The next time you're wheeled into Elmer Hospital, request the doctor with 13 letters in her last name.

One more than the back surgeon in Delaware.

1 South Jersey Times December 22, 2015

Inspira Health Network seeking volunteers

By Staff | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

on December 22, 2015 at 9:55 AM

MULLICA HILL – Volunteers are a significant part of any health care organization. They provide care and support services to patients, their caregivers and to office staff. Inspira Health Network is seeking volunteers who are interested in making a positive difference in the lives of patients and their families and caregivers. Men and women of all ages and from every walk of life who are interested in volunteering their time are encouraged to apply.

Inspira is seeking daytime volunteers to assist with a range of tasks, including: office and clerical support, meeting and greeting visitors, cashier and other retail tasks, supporting nursing staff with patient-related services, visiting patients for spiritual and emotional support, and more. Some weekend hours are available.

Volunteer opportunities are available at: Inspira Health Center Bridgeton, Inspira Medical Centers Elmer, Vineland, and Woodbury as well as at the network's Home Care and Hospice programs, LIFE Center and Twice Loved Treasures Thrift Shop.

To contact the volunteer programs at Inspira's medical centers, call Elmer 856-363-1738; Vineland 856-641-7737; or Woodbury 856-853-2034. For more information or other volunteer opportunities, please visitInspiraHealthNetwork.org or call 1-800-INSPIRA.

1 South Jersey Times

Inspira names two new vice presidents

Carol Thomas and Joe Piccolo were named to vice president positions with Inspira Health Network.

By Matt Gray | For NJ.com

on December 28, 2015 at 2:56 PM, updated December 28, 2015 at 3:04 PM

HARRISON TWP. — Inspira Health Network has named new vice presidents to oversee population health and corporate compliance.

Carol Thomas, who was appointed vice president for population health, brings more than 40 years of health care experience and specific expertise in improving population health, according to a release issued by Inspira.

Before joining Inspira, she served as executive director of Tristate Health Partners PHO and the Tristate Meritus ACO at Meritus Health System in Maryland.

Joe Piccolo was named vice president of corporate compliance and chief compliance officer for Inspira. He has more than 25 years of experience in health care administration and is certified in health care compliance by the Healthcare Compliance Certification Board.

Prior to joining Inspira, Piccolo served as vice president of Integrity and Compliance for Trinity Health's St. Mary Medical Center in Pennsylvania

1 South Jersey Times December 29, 2015

Cumberland Inspira Auxiliary names Auxilian of the Year

From left, Carolyn Heckman, executive director of the Inspira Foundation Cumberland/ Salem; Erika Friedman, 2015 Auxilian of the Year; and Robert Odorizzi, chair of the Inspira Auxiliary Cumberland County. (SUBMITTED PHOTO)

By Staff | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com

on December 29, 2015 at 1:24 PM

VINELAND — The Inspira Auxiliary Cumberland County announces that Erika Friedman has been named its 2015 Auxilian of the Year for her hard work and dedication to the Inspira Foundation Cumberland/Salem.

"Erika has devoted herself to raising money and awareness in support of Inspira Health Network, both as a regular member and a board member," said Carolyn Heckman, executive director of the Inspira Foundation Cumberland/Salem.

"I would like to thank the Auxiliary for this honor, and every individual who has given their time and energy to help this worthy cause," Friedman said. "Our amazing volunteers make it possible to accomplish so much good through events and fundraisers like our vendor sales and the annual Princess Party."

The Inspira Auxiliary Cumberland County is a division of the Inspira Health Network Foundation Cumberland/Salem. The members of the Auxiliary volunteer their time to support the activities and goals of the Foundation and raise money and awareness for the continued health and welfare of the community. To learn more, call 856-641-8290 or visit CS.InspiraFoundation.net.

1 South Jersey Times December 30, 2015

Sandy Lovelace

Sherry Remy

3 Inspira nurses earn March of Dimes 'Nurse of the Year' awards

By Staff | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com on December 30, 2015 at 2:21 PM

MULLICA HILL – Each year the March of Dimes recognizes nurses across the nation who demonstrate exceptional patient care, compassion and service. This year, Inspira Health Network announces that Sandy Lovelace, Sherry Remy and Reenie Sacchetti, have all been honored with 2015 Nurse of the Year Awards from the New Jersey Chapter.

Sandy Lovelace, assistant nurse manager for Inspira Medical Center Woodbury's acute care of the elderly unit, received the March of Dimes award in the "General Medical Adult Care" category. She is nationally certified in geriatric nursing and has 30 years of clinical nursing experience. Lovelace received a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Delaware. While in college, she worked as a nurse's aide at Inspira Medical Center Woodbury and was one of the first nurse externs for the hospital. In addition to role at Inspira, she also serves as a moderator for the women's group at Pitman Presbyterian Church and treasurer for West Jersey Presbyterian Women.

Sherry Remy, administrative director of Emergency Departments at Inspira Medical Center Vineland, received the March of Dimes award in the "Emergency Room Care" category. Remy has 19 years of emergency department management experience and has served as administrative director of Inspira's Bridgeton, Elmer and Vineland emergency departments since 2008. Additionally she oversees Inspira Medical Center Vineland's pediatric emergency department with onsite access to pediatric specialists from Nemours/Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children. Remy received her Associate in Applied Science Degree/Diploma in Nursing (RN) in 1991, followed by a Master of Science in Nursing in 2007 from Wesley College in Dover, Delaware.

2 South Jersey Times December 30, 2015

Reenie Sacchetti

Reenie Sacchetti, vice president of Clinical Services at Inspira Medical Center Woodbury received the March of Dimes award in the "Nurse Champion" category. Sacchetti has been a member of the hospital's management team since 2007. Sacchetti works closely with nurses at all levels on numerous projects most recently including the opening of a specialty orthopedic unit. Additionally, she has helped to bring state-of-the-art services to Inspira, including advanced 3D mammography for breast cancer screening and Gloucester County's first and only emergency PCI intervention program for patients experiencing a heart attack. Sacchetti holds a master's degree in allied health sciences and has more than 30 years of experience in health care. Sacchetti also currently serves on the Advisory Board at Cumberland County College.

In addition to the three Nurse of the Year recipients, seven nurses from Inspira Health Network were named as finalists. The finalists were: Sami Abate, Chris Bair, Carol Copsey, Angela Dare, Marlene Fischer, Julie Powers and Emily Turnure.

More than 196 nurses were nominated in 19 different award categories. New Jersey award recipients were announced at a special awards gala held on Nov. 18 at Pines Manor in Edison, which had a record attendance of more than 500 people. At the event there were 115 finalists who represented 48 hospitals and healthcare facilities. The event raised more than $90,000 to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality.

1 Philadelphia Business Journal December 17, 2015

13 area hospitals were among the 758 that will see their Medicare rates reduced by 1 percent because of incidents involving hospital-acquired conditions.

INDUSTRY NEWSHEALTH CARE

Medicare imposes payment penalty on 13 area hospitals Dec 17, 2015, 7:00am EST

INDUSTRIES & TAGS

John George Senior Reporter Philadelphia Business Journal

Thirteen hospitals in southeastern Pennsylvania, South Jersey and Delaware were among the 758 hospitals across the United States to incur penalties — in the form of reduced reimbursement rates — by the federal Medicare program because of patient safety incidents.

Under provisions in the Affordable Care Act, Medicare last year began cutting payments rates — by 1 percent — to hospitals that fall in the bottom quartile, nationally, for measures related to hospital-acquired conditions such as surgical-site infections, bloodstream infections in patients with central lines and urinary-tract infections for catheterization patients.

Medicare expects the program will result in reduced hospital spending of $364 million this fiscal year.

• Jefferson, Philadelphia University planning to merge

According to data released earlier this month by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, medical centers hit with the penalty in this region consisted of:

• Seven Philadelphia hospitals: Albert Einstein Medical Center, Cancer Treatment Centers Of America-Eastern Regional Hospital, Hahnemann University Hospital, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania Hospital, St. Joseph’s Hospital, and Thomas Jefferson University Hospital;

• Three suburban Philadelphia hospitals: Bryn Mawr Hospital, Brandywine Hospital, Paoli Hospital, Grand View Hospital; and

2 Philadelphia Business Journal December 17, 2015

• Three South Jersey Hospitals: Cooper University Hospital, Lourdes medical Center of Burlington County, and Inspira Medical Center — Vineland.

Last year, in the first year of the program, 724 hospital were penalized.

Earlier this week, the Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council issued a report that found mortality and readmission rates are continuing to drop at Pennsylvania hospitals. The independent state agency’s study looked at hospital-specific mortality and readmission rates for 16 common conditions and found decreases in almost all categories.