Cayuga Health System

This Veterans Day, we proudly salute those who have served our country. At Cayuga Health, we’re celebrating by showcasing photos of our veteran staff members and their loved ones who have served throughout November in both hospital lobbies. Join us in recognizing their dedication and service. Thank you to all veterans for your courage and sacrifice.

Cayuga Health was proud to have Herb Alexander, chief Diversity Officer & aVP of People & Culture represent us at the new Greater Ithaca Activities Center (GIAC) Rec Center. “Creating a healthier community is more than a visit to the doctor or stay at the hospital, it’s also what is happening right here in this teen center,” says Alexander. “Cayuga Health is honored to sponsor the weight room in GIAC’s new space, as it aligns with our commitment to health and wellness in our community.”

Yesterday, the CMC ICU was presented with the DAISY Award. The DAISY Award expresses gratitude to Nurses for the extraordinary compassionate, skillful care they provide patients and families. In the nomination for the ICU team, it was written, "The sheer level of attention to her medical needs, to the absolute professionalism and skill level displayed by all of the staff overwhelmed us in such an amazing way. [...]The staff in the ICU Is the most respectful, professional and responsive group of nurses and health care professionals I could have asked for... As far as I am concerned they truly are angels that walk among us." Their dedication and empathy create a positive and supportive environment, not only for patients but also for their colleagues. Collaborating with this staff fosters a culture of excellence and continuous improvement, making every day a learning opportunity and a chance to witness the impact of outstanding care.

We asked some of our staff, "Why healthcare?" Find your why at Cayuga Health. cayugahealth.org/careers

“Death by suicide is not just a personal problem, it’s a societal, cultural problem. One of the biggest losses in my life and in my career occurred as a young attending physician.” Thank you to Dr. Laura Sidari of Cayuga Health System for sharing her personal story of losing someone to suicide in this five-minute short from ACU's Purpose in Practice podcast. Listen: https://lnkd.in/e9NCBdNE #suicideprevention #mentalillnessawarenessweek #mentalhealth #suicidesafercare #MIAW Cayuga Medical Center at Ithaca

Cayuga Health is proud to have partnered with DiMarco Constructors on this healthcare facility, which will significantly enhance our community’s well-being. DiMarco Constructors' dedication to excellence and innovation has been instrumental in bringing this project to fruition. We look forward to the continued benefit for the community.

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/YlIp50Trbri

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