CNBNews

Sharon Abele, BSN, RN, a Surgical Services nurse at Jefferson Stratford Hospital, was recently honored with a DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses. A resident of Woodbury Heights, NJ, Abele was recognized for her quick actions that saved a patient’s life. Abele was working in Recovery when she checked a patient's blood pressure before discharge, noting their history of hypotension. She took another set of vital signs, noticing a gradual drop in blood pressure. When the patient mentioned a recent fall, Sharon alerted the anesthesia team, surgeon, and Emergency Department. The patient was later found to have a severe medical condition... Read more →

Jefferson Occupational Health Network (JOHN) Nurse Practitioner Gwyn Parris-Atwell DNP, RN, was presented with the Military Legion of Merit Medal by Brigadier General Jason Christman, Assistant Adjutant General of the Delaware National Air Guard. Honored for her “exceptionally meritorious conduct,” Dr. Parris-Atwell recently retired from the Air National Guard after 31 years of service. She had served as the 166th Medical Group’s Commander, responsible for the oversight of all medical operations for state and global aerospace medicine services for the 166th Air Lift Wing. Earlier this year, Dr. Parris-Atwell was named to a three-year term on the Salem Community College... Read more →

The exceptional contributions of nurses and caregivers at Jefferson Health in New Jersey were recently recognized through individual, team leader, and team DAISY Awards for Extraordinary Nurses, as well as the Being Extraordinary Everyday (BEE) Award for Extraordinary Caregivers. Jefferson Washington Township Hospital nurses Rebecca Bury, RN, CMSRN (Intermediate Care Unit), of Williamstown, and Kristina Quinones, BSN, RN (Silvestri 5), of Mullica Hill — as well as Heart Failure Coordinator Anatoliy Palamarchuk, BSN, RN, CMSRN, of Mount Laurel, were each recognized with individual DAISY Awards. They were praised for providing exceptional care, empathy, and positivity that greatly helped their patients... Read more →

Jefferson Washington Township Hospital recently received formal approval from the New Jersey Department of Health to perform elective Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) — also known as elective angioplasty — a lifesaving procedure to prevent heart attacks. PCI, usually performed following a diagnostic cardiac catheterization, provides patients relief from symptoms of obstructed arteries without the need for invasive heart surgery. This approval comes a year after the hospital was approved by the state to offer PCI (angioplasty) for patients experiencing the most severe type of heart attack -- ST elevated myocardial infarction, or STEMI. More than 100 patients have undergone the... Read more →

Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center locations in New Jersey were recently presented with a $10,000 grant award from Wireless Zone Gives, a national non-profit fundraising organization supported by local Verizon retail store owners. The grant will support various events at the two New Jersey Cancer Center locations in Cherry Hill and Washington Township, including Cancer Survivors Day, Massage and Reiki Days, and other patient-centered initiatives. Founded in 2003 with the realization that, as local business owners, Wireless Zone wanted to support its area communities as much as they support them, Wireless Zone Gives raises a significant amount of money and... Read more →

Jefferson Health’s Camden County-based hospitals in Cherry Hill and Stratford recently received more than 400 free opioid overdose response kits. The kits were provided by the Camden County Office of Mental Health and Addiction, in collaboration with the Camden County Addiction Awareness Task Force. Jefferson Health will soon distribute these kits to patients at their Camden County-based hospitals suffering from overdoses or substance use disorder issues to prevent future overdoses and save lives. Jefferson Health East Region President Aaron Chang noted that the health system is grateful to the county for providing these lifesaving kits: “The opioid epidemic has had... Read more →

Members of the Jefferson Cherry Hill Hospital Emergency Department (ED) were recently honored with a DAISY Team Award for Extraordinary Nurses. The award was presented in recognition of their care of a teenage boy for two months while he was awaiting community placement. “Extended stays in the Emergency Department can be stressful, especially for those who suffer from mental health issues. Our team has done a phenomenal job caring for this patient day after day, making sure he had his healthcare and comfort needs met,” says Emergency Department Nurse Manager Shelby Van de Zilver, DNP, RN. “Some have gone ‘above... Read more →

Jefferson Health’s New Jersey hospitals – in Washington Township, Stratford and Cherry Hill -- have each received the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines® - Stroke GOLD PLUS quality achievement award. This award recognizes their commitment to ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment, based on nationally recognized, research-based guidelines that ultimately lead to more lives saved and reduced disability. Stroke is the No. 5 cause of death and a leading cause of disability in the USA. A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot... Read more →

Tammy Harold, MBA, Director of Business Development for Women's & Children's Services at Jefferson Health - East Region, was recently reinstalled for her second year as a Board Member of the South Jersey Chapter of NAWBO (National Association of Women Business Owners). For the 2024/2025 term, Harold will serve as Co-Director of NAWBO's Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) Committee. NAWBO supports women business leaders through collaboration, education, mentorship, and networking. Jefferson Health is a proud Gold Sponsor and partner of the organization. A strong advocate for women’s health and youth, Harold – part of Jefferson’s management team for 8... Read more →

Children of two Jefferson Health employees have been named recipients of the annual Sanderson Memorial Scholarship. The scholarships, each for $2,500, are awarded based on academic achievements and an interest in pursuing a career in healthcare. The scholarships are awarded in memory of Sarah Sanderson, an original Board Member of then-Kennedy Health. Sanderson generously bestowed funds to promote the continuation of health education among promising young students. The 2024 Scholarship recipients are: Anjuli Nair, of Mickleton, NJ, daughter of Maya Nair, a certified respiratory therapist at Jefferson Washington Township Hospital. Anjuli will graduate from Kingsway Regional High School this month... Read more →

The Atco Lions Club, at its recent Annual Leadership Installation Dinner, donated $1,000 to the Maressa Center for MS Wellness at Jefferson Health. The donation will be used for future programs and services aimed at improving the quality of life for those living with multiple sclerosis (MS). Pictured, left to right, are: Atco Lions Club President John Shendock; Club Vice Treasurer, Phyllis Shendock; Family Medicine physician and Maressa Center participant Dr. Julian Maressa; Lions Club Chairperson Joseph Ricca; Lions Club Vice President Anthony Maressa; and Brian Duffy, DPT, Director of Rehabilitation Services at Jefferson Health in New Jersey. Founded in... Read more →

The Atco Lions Club, at its recent Annual Leadership Installation Dinner, donated $1,000 to the Maressa Center for MS Wellness at Jefferson Health. The donation will be used for future programs and services aimed at improving the quality of life for those living with multiple sclerosis (MS). Pictured, left to right, are: Atco Lions Club President John Shendock; Club Vice Treasurer, Phyllis Shendock; Family Medicine physician and Maressa Center participant Dr. Julian Maressa; Lions Club Chairperson Joseph Ricca; Lions Club Vice President Anthony Maressa; and Brian Duffy, DPT, Director of Rehabilitation Services at Jefferson Health in New Jersey. Founded in... Read more →

Nineteen members of the Project SEARCH Class of 2024 — at our hospitals in Cherry Hill, Stratford Hospital, and Washington Township — were honored at recent ceremonies. The events celebrated the achievements of 12 Camden County-based YALE School NJ Project SEARCH program participants — six working at each of our Cherry Hill and Stratford hospitals — as well as the seven Gloucester County-based Project SEARCH program participants who worked in Washington Township. The Project SEARCH interns attended classes at the hospitals every day throughout the school year, working and learning alongside Jefferson Health employees. Jefferson has been involved with Project... Read more →

Jefferson Health’s three New Jersey Hospitals – based in Cherry Hill, Stratford and Washington Township – have been recognized by U.S. News & World Report for their success in caring for patients in historically underserved communities. The inaugural “Best Regional Hospital Awards for Equitable Access” honors community hospitals' dedication to equitable access. Jefferson’s NJ hospitals have formal programs in place to address health disparities, including providing language access for those with limited English proficiency and services for community members with health-related social needs. “This is a wonderful recognition, and it demonstrates our commitment to providing world-class care to everyone in... Read more →

Jefferson Washington Township Hospital ICU Nurse Renee Stephens, BSN, RN, CCRN, a resident of Glassboro, was recently honored with a Nurse Excellence Award by the South Jersey Chapter of the National Black Nurses Association (NBNA). Stephens, who has been a nurse with us for 25 years, was celebrated with other award winners at a special ceremony held this month at the Woodcrest Country Club in Cherry Hill. The first Jefferson Health nurse in New Jersey to receive a COVID vaccine in December 2020 – Renee was honored for her commitment to nursing and to the communities we serve. She is... Read more →

The Bill Bottino Cancer Foundation, a longtime supporter of the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, recently donated $45,000 to the Cancer Center’s Patient Assistance Fund at Jefferson Health in New Jersey. Last year, dozens of cancer patients who needed help with rent, utilities, or transportation received financial assistance from this fund, allowing them to continue focusing on their treatment and care. "Living with cancer is challenging for patients and their families, and can be made harder with financial worry,” said Tamara LaCouture, MD, Chief of Cancer Services, Jefferson Cherry Hill & Washington Township Hospitals. "We thank The Bill Bottino Cancer Foundation... Read more →

Jalen Stewart, a Patient Transport Associate at Jefferson Cherry Hill Hospital, was recently honored with a Being Extraordinary Everyday (BEE) Award for Extraordinary Caregivers. The Pennsauken resident was nominated for building trusting relationships, treating others with dignity and respect, and placing patients and families first to promote a positive hospital experience. “Patients recognize, smile, and look forward to seeing Jalen. I know my patients are in good hands with him,” wrote a nursing colleague. “A team player, Jalen stays at work late and never leaves a patient until we meet all their needs. The Post-Anesthesia Care Unit recently had many... Read more →

Dozens of well-wishers, community leaders and Jefferson Health physicians attended a Ribbon Cutting event and reception for the new Oncology Suite at the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center in Cherry Hill. This location is part of the NCI-designated Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Jefferson. The new, expanded Medical Oncology suite includes 20 infusion chairs and 10 examination rooms. Other services offered within the suite include blood draws, a clinical trials office, patient navigation services, social work, genetic counseling, and nutrition counseling — providing a wide array of cancer services, all in one location. This expansion at the Sidney Kimmel Cancer... Read more →

Jefferson Cherry Hill Hospital and Jefferson Washington Township Hospital each earned an “A” Hospital Safety Grade in the Spring 2024 rankings from The Leapfrog Group, a national nonprofit watchdog that sets standards for excellence in patient care. “Patients have healthcare choices. It is important for them to understand the differences in how healthcare systems treat individuals and deliver on the promise of improving health,” said Aaron Chang, President of Jefferson Health – East Region. “The Leapfrog organization allows our South Jersey community members to compare, and it gives me great pride to know that we stand out with our top-tier... Read more →

Kristina Johnston, DNP, RN, CMSRN, NE-BC, a Nurse Manager at Jefferson Cherry Hill Hospital, presented a poster at the recent annual meeting/conference of the Organization of Nurse Leaders of New Jersey (ONL NJ), held in Princeton. Some 200 nurse executives and leaders from across the state -- including direct care providers, managers and administrators from all practice settings encompassing acute care, post-acute and long-term care, academia, and industry -- attended the event. Johnston’s poster was titled Development and Evaluation of a Nurse Leader-Driven Pre-Fall Huddle in High-Fall Risk Patients on a Medical-Surgical Unit. Johnston, left, is shown at the event... Read more →

Lori Harris, RN, CAPA, an Emergency Department nurse at Jefferson Stratford Hospital, was recently honored with a DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses. A resident of Glassboro, NJ, Harris saw a community member in need in the hospital lobby and stopped to talk to him. Lori, who was returning to the building with her food truck Hospital Week celebratory meal, then offered her meal to this resident. Harris says she believes in doing good and that her reward was his thanks and appreciation. She consistently shows professionalism and a positive attitude toward her co-workers and patients. Part of an international program,... Read more →

Two Jefferson Health Patient Care Technicians in New Jersey were recently honored with a Beyond Expectations of Excellence (BEE) Award for Extraordinary Caregivers — Lisa Hawkins, of Clementon, NJ, and Rosa Lopez, of Philadelphia. Hawkins, a Jefferson Stratford Hospital 2-East Unit tech, received a patient compliment for being an helpful, friendly person who responds quickly to call bells with a smile. Lopez, who works in the Jefferson Cherry Hill Hospital ICU, is described by her co-workers as a caring and personable tech who goes above and beyond with patients. She is also an immense help to the dietitians by always... Read more →

It was a day for celebration as the 1000th Robotic Surgery using the da Vinci Xi surgical system took place at Jefferson Stratford Hospital. Robotic surgeries at the hospital began in January 2022. Surgeon Adeshola Fakulujo, MD, performed the 1,000th robotic procedure on March 27. Dr. Fakulujo (seated, front row, right) is shown with members of the Jefferson Stratford Hospital surgical services team. The surgical robot at Jefferson Stratford Hospital is used for bariatric (weight loss) surgery, along with gynecologic, urologic, and general surgery procedures. Jefferson Health in New Jersey also offers robotic procedures with the da Vinci Xi system... Read more →

A Jefferson Health program that offers retired nurses an opportunity to help new-to-practice nurses hone their skills through in-person mentoring is being expanded to potential hires from outside of the health system. “We’ve had great success with our Nurse Emeritus program, originally offered to Jefferson Health nursing retirees, and we’re ready to take it to the next level,” said New Jersey Program Coordinator Marilyn Goodman, MSN, RN. First established during the pandemic in 2022, more than 12 nurses who had retired within the past three years (a requirement of the program), joined the Nurse Emeritus team at Jefferson in New... Read more →

Members of Jefferson Health’s New Jersey leadership team were out for a night of networking and knowledge at the recent “Beyond the Glass Ceiling” Gala held by the National Association of Women Business Owners of South Jersey (NAWBO). Jefferson was the Gold Sponsor for the event, held at the Mansion on Main Street in Voorhees. The gala honored extraordinary individuals and businesses for their contributions to women and women business owners, as well to as the community at large. Jenny Breunig, Vice President of Operations at Jefferson Washington Township Hospital, spoke about Jefferson’s continually expanding patient-focused programs and services, as... Read more →

Jefferson Health in New Jersey held its major fundraiser of the year at the Borgata Hotel, Casino & Spa in Atlantic City in late February. Some 400 guests attended the event, which raised nearly $400,000 to support Jefferson's programs and services. A highlight of the evening was the announced winners of the 2024 Giving Tank, an initiative inspired by the popular "Shark Tank" television show. Through generous donations, the Jefferson Health Foundation - New Jersey awarded $225,000 in grants to employees’ best ideas for elevating patient care or employee well-being. The top $100,000 grant was given for anoscopy equipment and... Read more →

Some 400 guests enjoyed a night of dining and dancing – as well as recognition for some special Jefferson team members -- at the recent 2024 Gala held at the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City. Nearly $400,000 dollars was raised though the event, held on February 24, to support programs and services in the Jefferson - East Region. The entertainment headliner was DJ Jazzy Jeff. A great time was had by all! Thank you to everyone who supported this important fundraising event for our region. Winners of the 2024 Giving Tank – a “Shark Tank” type contest... Read more →

Cherry Hill, NJ, February 27, 2024 -- Aaron Chang, President of Jefferson Health – East Region in New Jersey, along with other members of the leadership team, attended the Southern New Jersey Development Council’s Public Policy Speaker Series on February 27, held at the Tavistock Country Club. Congressman Andy Kim was the keynote speaker at the event, which was presented by Jefferson. Congressman Kim detailed his approach regarding issues facing our region and nation, including economic growth, innovation, competition, and national security. Jefferson Health was recognized by Kim for the investments it has made to improve the health of our... Read more →

West Deptford - passed away on February 15, 2024 at the age of 64. Predeceased by his wife of 41 years Karen Gibbs (Sbalcio); father Donald C. Gibbs, Sr., Survived by his cherished children, Brett (Julia) and Brittany Gibbs; devoted mother, Georgeanna Gibbs, dear sister Bridgett, Brenda (Steve) Erika (Dean), Nicole (Randy) and brother Kirk (Dawn). Loved by many cousins, nieces and nephews and in-laws. Donald graduated from nursing school in 1985 and worked as a Registered nurse since 1986. Before that Don worked as an EMT for North Wildwood Beach Patrol and he also worked as a Respiratory Therapist.... Read more →

Blackwood, NJ, resident Barbara Lamaina, BSN, RN, CAPA, CPEN, a Jefferson Health nurse based at its Washington Township Surgery Center, was recently honored with a Daisy Award for Nursing Excellence. “Her kindness, compassion and sincerity is contagious and promotes a positive work environment,” says Regional Chief Nursing Officer Diane Juliano. Barb assisted a fellow RN with the discharge of a patient who was apprehensive about returning home without a nurse to assist with post-op care. Barb, overhearing the conversation, knew her co-worker needed support and volunteered to talk with the patient. After speaking with Barb, the patient felt confident and... Read more →

Jefferson Health, which includes Jefferson Cherry Hill Hospital, Jefferson Stratford Hospital and Jefferson Washington Township Hospital in New Jersey, has announced promotions and appointments of several leaders: Diane Juliano, DNP, MBA, RN, NEA-BC, FACHE, has been named regional Chief Nursing Officer. In this role, Dr. Juliano has overall responsibility for patient care services and nursing operations, with oversight of more than 1,400 RNs and nursing staff. Dr. Juliano joined Jefferson in 2019 as Corporate Director of Nursing for the Stratford Hospital and, in 2021, was promoted to Assistant VP of Clinical Services. Most recently, she had served as Associate Chief... Read more →

Representatives of Jefferson Health in New Jersey and the Delsea Regional School District in Franklinville, NJ, have formalized an agreement for Jefferson to offer specialized support services for students coping with lasting impacts of the pandemic. Jefferson Health will provide four social workers in the K-12 district and to neighboring parochial school, Our Lady of Mercy Academy, to address student needs. Additionally, Jefferson will provide a Community Wellness Manager to support the needs of families throughout the district. This trained professional social worker will provide resources to state and federal social programs addressing everything from food insecurity to lack of... Read more →

For patients experiencing the most severe type of heart attack – ST elevation myocardial infarction or STEMI -- time is of the essence. Jefferson Health recently received New Jersey state certification to offer a specialized treatment, Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI), for STEMI patients at its Washington Township Hospital Catheterization Lab. A STEMI is a type of heart attack caused by a complete blockage of a coronary artery. These heart attacks are extremely serious and can be life threatening. “Time is critical to open up these vessels to save the patient’s life,” said Henry Schuitema, DO, Chief of Emergency Medicine at... Read more →

Victoria and Chris Lacher of Sewell, with Cora Jane, born on New Year's Day. Congratulations! Sewell, January 1, 2024 -- The Jefferson Washington Township Hospital welcomed its first baby of the year, Cora Jane, on New Year's Day. She was born to Victoria and Chris Lacher of Sewell at 12:41 p.m. on January 1st. The baby weighed 7 lbs., 2 ounces, and measured 19 ½ inches long. Little Cora Jane also has a cleft chin like her parents and three-year-old brother. Moreover, Jefferson is celebrating a significant milestone this year, as the health system and university will turn 200 years... Read more →

Jefferson Washington Township Hospital greeted its first baby of 2024 on New Year’s Day! Victoria and Chris Lacher of Sewell, welcomed little Cora Jane at 12:41 p.m. on January 1st. The baby weighed 7 lbs., 2 ounces, and is 19 ½ long. And like her parents and three year-old brother, little Cora Jane has a cleft chin! Jefferson is also celebrating a major milestone this year. The health system and university turn 200 this year and will celebrate its bicentennial throughout 2024. Happy birthday to all the region’s New Year’s babies and happy birthday, Jefferson! Read more →

Members of the Jefferson Washington Township Hospital Emergency Department (ED) were recently honored with a DAISY Team Award for Extraordinary Nurses. The award was presented in recognition of their commitment to compassionate care and collaborating with nursing to identify and exceed patient needs. The team devoted hours to stabilize a patient and maintained clear communication with the family, while seamlessly attending to other patients. “The team showed extraordinary dedication, prioritizing the urgent situation and skillfully applying their expertise to save a young man's life,” said Diane Juliano, Interim Chief Nursing Officer, Jefferson Health – East Region. “His parents expressed overwhelming... Read more →

Jefferson Cherry Hill Hospital and Jefferson Einstein Montgomery Hospital Earn 2023 Leapfrog Top Hospital Award for Outstanding Quality and Safety Philadelphia, PA, December 5, 2023 -- Highlighting its nationally recognized achievements in patient safety and quality, Jefferson Cherry Hill Hospital and Jefferson Einstein Montgomery Hospital were each named a Top Teaching Hospital by The Leapfrog Group. Announced today, the Leapfrog Top Hospital award is widely acknowledged as one of the most competitive awards American hospitals can receive. The Top Hospital designation is bestowed by The Leapfrog Group, a national watchdog organization of employers and other purchasers, known as the toughest... Read more →

Three Jefferson Health employees in New Jersey were recently honored with a Beyond Expectations of Excellence (BEE) Award for Extraordinary Caregivers — Patient Care Technicians MaryAnne Metzger and Theresa Sapigao, as well as Environmental Services associate Nicole Savoca. During a patient's 17-day hospital stay, Metzger, of Salem, NJ, stood out as an exceptionally positive and caring individual who showed compassion and sensitivity to the patient’s needs. This grateful patient from the Silvestri 4 Unit at Jefferson Washington Township Hospital wrote that “Maryanne infused care and humor into tasks such as bathing, creating a positive atmosphere." Sapigao, of Marlton, NJ, was... Read more →

Jefferson Health registered nurses Amber Hart, BSN, RN, and Jeong Kim, BSN, RN, PCCN, were each recently honored with a DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses. Hart and Kim — who respectively work on the Silvestri 5 and C4 patient care units at Jefferson Washington Township Hospital and Jefferson Cherry Hill Hospital — were recognized for establishing a connection with patients and families through trust and emotional support. Hart, of Pine Hill, NJ, received praise from colleagues for initiating a rapid response and administering Narcan to a patient suspected of taking illicit drugs. Hart exhibited non-judgmental care while providing empathetic support.... Read more →

Area residents will have the opportunity to honor, remember, and celebrate the lives of loved ones who have battled cancer with the symbolic illumination of the “Tree of Lights” in the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center – Washington Township’s lobby on Wednesday, November 29. The 14th annual Tree of Lights Remembrance Celebration, set for 5-6 p.m. at the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center (900 Medical Center Drive, Sewell, NJ), will include music, light refreshments, and a tree-lighting ceremony, where honorees’ names will be recited aloud. A minimum $5 donation per recited name will benefit the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center – New Jersey... Read more →

South Jersey resident and grateful patient Michelle Donio recently raised more than $12,000 in support of the Patient Assistance Fund at the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center in New Jersey. The Patient Assistance Fund helps patients who need help with rent, utilities or transportation, allowing them to continue focusing on their treatment. Donio, of Buena, hosted a breast cancer benefit, Sort for Support, at the Double P Ranch in Bridgeton over two days in early October for this effort. Ranch sorting is a western-style equestrian sport that involves two teams of riders separating cattle into pens on horseback against the clock.... Read more →

Jefferson Washington Township Hospital has been certified by The Joint Commission as a Comprehensive Stroke Center, the highest distinction of its kind, which recognizes hospitals with the ability to receive and treat the most complex stroke cases. “Achieving Comprehensive Stroke Center accreditation is another example of how our highly experienced teams bring the most sophisticated level of complex care to South Jersey, including world-class cancer care, specialized cardiac treatments, and OBGYN services for women’s health," said Baligh Yehia, MD, MPP, MSc, FACP, President of Jefferson Health. "I’m very proud that the Jefferson Heath Washington Township Hospital team has been recognized... Read more →

Three Jefferson Health Department of Nursing employees in New Jersey received annual Nursing Scholarships through the Magnet®-designated healthcare organization. The three — all employed at Jefferson Cherry Hill Hospital — were chosen by the Nursing Selection Committee based on their academic achievements and support of Jefferson’s mission, vision, and values. Each year, Jefferson offers various nursing scholarships: an Entry-Level Non-RN Scholarship, open to all clinical and non-clinical employees aspiring for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree; the Gartzman Fund RN-to-BSN Scholarship; and the Leadership Scholarship, open to current BSN- and MSN-level nurses aspiring to earn a Master’s (MSN)... Read more →

Cherry Hill, NJ (October 2, 2023) — Three Jefferson Health Department of Nursing employees in New Jersey received annual Nursing Scholarships through the Magnet®-designated healthcare organization. The three — all employed at Jefferson Cherry Hill Hospital — were chosen by the Nursing Selection Committee based on their academic achievements and support of Jefferson’s mission, vision, and values. Each year, Jefferson offers various nursing scholarships: an Entry-Level Non-RN Scholarship, open to all clinical and non-clinical employees aspiring for a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree; the Gartzman Fund RN-to-BSN Scholarship; and the Leadership Scholarship, open to current BSN- and MSN-level... Read more →

Voorhees, NJ, September 29, 2023 – Two Jefferson Health hospitals in southern New Jersey earned individual recognitions related to their surgical services. Jefferson Stratford Hospital recently earned designation as an American College of Surgeons (ACS) Surgical Quality Partner, in recognition of its dedication to the safest and most effective surgical care through its Weight-Loss Surgery Program, which also holds ACS Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) designation. More than 5,400 bariatric surgical procedures have been performed at Jefferson Stratford Hospital since the program began in 2007. An important measure of a hospital’s surgical quality, ACS Quality... Read more →

Jefferson has announced that Aaron Chang, FACHE, has been named President of Jefferson Health – East, effective October 16, 2023. Chang brings vast experience in the academic, non-profit, and private sectors, with a passion for improving community health. In his new role, Chang will be responsible for overseeing daily operations of Jefferson’s three New Jersey acute care hospitals in Cherry Hill, Stratford and Washington Township, NJ, recently ranked among the top 10 in New Jersey on U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Hospitals” list. A results-oriented executive, Chang comes to Jefferson from Catholic Health in New York, where he was... Read more →

Jefferson Health recently presented two of its Washington Township Hospital employees — Jeffrey Szurek, RN, and Spencer Reitano, PCT — with a DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses and a Beyond Expectations of Excellence (BEE) Award. Jeffrey Szurek, an Emergency Department (ED) nurse, was recognized with a DAISY Award for providing compassionate patient care and assisting a co-worker. He stayed beyond his shift to offer support in a situation involving an Emergency Department patient (and his accompanying son), whose wife and mother was coincidentally a patient in the hospital’s ICU. Szurek stayed beyond his shift so the nurse caring for the... Read more →

Jefferson Health recently hosted a networking event in partnership with the South Jersey Chapter of the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO SJ). The Network Connect event, held at Jefferson Washington Township Hospital, provided an evening of conversation, networking, and valuable information on women’s health topics. A Jefferson physician panel featuring Interventional Cardiologist Jeffrey Ogbara, MD; Neurosurgeon Richard F. Schmidt, MD; and Obstetrician–Gynecologist Tameka Sisco, DO, discussed heart health — including risk factors, symptoms, prevention and treatment of heart disease — as well as stroke and hypertension during pregnancy. The Jefferson panel also discussed the health system’s interventional cardiology,... Read more →

Danielle Coates, BSN, RN, a Registered Nurse on the 2-East unit at Jefferson Stratford Hospital, was recently honored with a DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses. The Williamstown, NJ, resident — a seven-year employee — was recognized for her positive attitude and establishing connections with patients and families. "I have watched Danielle become so compassionate and always find a 'soft spot' for patients," a colleague wrote in their nomination. "Her compassion and empathy inspire me." A grateful family member added that "Danielle took time to explain everything during my mom's stay. We could not be happier with the care she received."... Read more →

Donna Cybulski, MSN, RN, CCRN — Intensive Care Unit/Intermediate Care Unit Nurse Manager at Jefferson Cherry Hill Hospital — was recently honored with a DAISY Team Leader Award for Extraordinary Nurses. A 12-year Jefferson employee, Cybulski, of Stratford, NJ, was nominated by a nursing colleague who praised her for being a transformational leader who puts others before herself and inspires, trusts, and believes in her staff. Donna became the team’s Nurse Manager during the pandemic. Her nominator praised her for not only providing patient care with her team and willingly working night shifts, but also inspiring her co-workers during the... Read more →