Cayuga Medical Center at Ithaca

As September unfolds, Cayuga Health joins the nation in recognizing Suicide Prevention Month, a critical period dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of mental health and the urgent need for suicide prevention. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide remains one of the leading causes of death across various age groups, particularly among young adults and veterans. The emotional, psychological, and social impacts of suicide are profound, affecting not just individuals but families, friends, and entire communities. In response, Cayuga Health is taking part in the Zero Suicide Initiative. To learn more about this initiative, watch the video at https://ow.ly/p8MJ50Trbrj

The Cayuga Medical Center Foundation recently announced a new mural at the Cayuga Cancer Center’s East Campus. Created by local artist Paulina Melechkina, this mural was commissioned in memory of Vince Marziano, who passed away from cancer in August 2022. In this video, Vince’s wife, Cora, reflects on this touching tribute that captures his love for the natural beauty of Cayuga Lake.

Debra Morton, DNP, MA, BSN has been appointed Cayuga Health’s Chief Nursing Officer. Morton will be responsible for the strategic leadership and vision for Nursing and Patient Services, and ensuring high-quality, patient-centered care in both inpatient and outpatient settings. “I am pleased to join Cayuga Health to shape the future of nursing practice,” said Morton. “I was impressed by Cayuga Health nurses’ dedication to providing excellent care in a community setting and am confident that together, we will achieve new levels of nursing innovation and achievement typically only realized in larger more urban settings. I am excited to collaborate with other members of the executive team and healthcare providers to optimize patient care delivery, improve interdisciplinary communication, and enhance patient satisfaction.” Morton previously held the role of Vice President of Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer at LifeBridge Health Sinai Hospital, a 483-bed teaching hospital, and level 2 trauma center. Previous experience also includes leadership roles at Kaiser Permanente and Dignity Health in California.

Cayuga Health System is on a mission to improve health equity in all of the communities it serves in the Southern Tier of New York State. This Center will be a virtual hub for health equity strategies, initiatives, and resources, bringing together staff across the health system alongside patients, community partners, and academic centers. Read more about the center and dashboard at https://ow.ly/3TFk50TaQFA

Cayuga Health is honored to have won 12 Finger Lakes Favorites Awards! Here’s to continued excellence in healthcare and serving our community. If you’re passionate about making a difference and want to be part of a dedicated team, consider joining Cayuga Health. Explore career opportunities with us and help shape the future of healthcare in our community cayugahealth.org/careers

Richard Sweet-Keech, Administrator for the Seneca View Skilled Nursing Facility, has been elected as an at-large director on the LeadingAge New York Board of Directors. LeadingAge New York’s mission is to expand the possibilities for the aging by advancing policies, promoting best practices, and conducting research that supports and empowers people to live fully as they age. The organization includes a wide range of services such as nursing homes, senior housing, adult care facilities, continuing care retirement communities, assisted living, and community service providers. LeadingAge New York has over 600 members who employ 150,000 professionals and serve more than 500,000 people annually. His first term will run through June 30, 2027, with the possibility of serving a second three-year term thereafter.

Senator Webb announced that she has secured $25,000 in state funds to enhance the services provided by CARS. Dr. Stallone, President and CEO of Cayuga Health added, “For those with substance use disorders, the funds will help us to improve access at CARS through outpatient facility enhancements and increasing our telehealth technology." To read more, visit https://lnkd.in/euQFsv6A

Dr. Andreia de Lima, Chief Medical Officer at Cayuga Health, shared her insights with Becker’s, addressing common misconceptions in healthcare. She highlighted the need for commitment to placing patient health at the heart of everything we do. Empowering our people and employing our capabilities to equitably improve the well-being of the communities we serve is the mission of Cayuga Health.

On National Intern Day, we’re highlighting the dedication and hard work of 3 of our amazing interns. This summer they have worked with our DEI team to help source, stock, and maintain our Community Cupboard. The food is available at no cost for patients, staff, and their loved ones, with the aim of advancing health equity, food security, and overall health and wellness in our communities. Cayuga Health has Community Cupboards are located at Cayuga Park, Schuyler Hospital, with a third location at the Ithaca Mall in the works. Knowing that there is a dependable source of food can reduce stress and anxiety related to food insecurity. Community food cupboards often bring people together, fostering a sense of community and mutual support. This social cohesion can lead to stronger, more resilient communities. This peace of mind contributes to better mental health and well-being. Access to nutritious food is essential for maintaining good health and preventing chronic diseases. Community food cupboards help individuals make healthier food choices, leading to better overall health outcomes.

Tompkins County, home to many of our offices and Cayuga Medical Center, ranks as New York’s 3rd best county to live in. Our dedication to public health, community, and quality of life helps our county stand out. Other areas of service including Chemung, Cortland, and Steuben Counties also made the top 30. Work in a place you love, find career opportunities at https://lnkd.in/euFfeaQY