THANK YOU DONOR IMPACT
REPORT
REVOLUTIONIZING STROKE RESPONSE
WITH TELEMEDICINE
“Telestroke is a game changer for our patients experiencing a stroke. Now, we can begin treatment more quickly, maximizing our patients’ chances of better recovery.”
MILAGROS GONAZALES, MSN, RN, CPPS STROKE CENTER COORDINATOR
When a patient is experiencing a stroke, time is of the essence, as each second that treatment is delayed can hamper recovery. Through donor support, Hackensack Meridian Raritan Bay Medical Center’s Telestroke Program cares for patients with increased speed and effectiveness. Telestroke is an innovative telemedicine program that enables patients in the Emergency Department to be seen within 5-15 minutes of arrival, and it is also available for patients throughout the medical center. Prior to Telestroke’s implementation, stroke patients would have been transferred to another facility, using up valuable time and delaying treatment. Now, a stroke specialist can evaluate a patient right away and begin administering treatment to lessen the effects of a stroke.
CELEBRATING FAMILIES’ NEWEST ADDITIONS
Welcoming a newborn into the family is a joyous occasion, and Raritan Bay Medical Center makes this milestone even more special. New mothers are presented with specialty gift baskets filled with essentials and pampering items to help ease the transition into motherhood, offering a warm welcome to both mother and baby. The hospital also recognizes the importance of siblings in this joyous celebration. Big brothers and big sisters are presented with their own special gifts, acknowledging their new role in the family. These gifts might include toys, books or personalized items that celebrate their unique place in the growing family. This special treatment enhances the hospital experience and makes the arrival of a new baby an even more memorable and inclusive occasion for everyone. Thanks to our donors for these special touches!
SEEING MORE, SAVING MORE WITH ADVANCED IMAGING IN THE EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT
Thanks to the generosity of donors, our patients and team members are benefitting from a new 3D X-ray machine housed in Raritan Bay Medical Center’s Emergency Department. This advanced technology, offering improved imaging, is dedicated for use in the Emergency Department and allows for faster imaging of patients when time is of the essence. In the past, patients needing an X-ray had to be transported to the main imaging department. Now, clinicians are able to capture crucial diagnostic information and initiate treatment plans more quickly.
“The 3D X-ray is fantastic and will definitely make my job easier, as well as create a better experience for patients.”
RAY ZEBROWSKI
THE BLACK POSTER PROJECT: FIGHTING THE BATTLE AGAINST ADDICTION
Addiction is a significant health concern that affects individuals, families and communities worldwide. Raritan Bay Medical Center has taken a proactive step in addressing this pressing issue by hosting The Black Poster Project. Images of those lost to substance abuse stand as a silent memorial and illustration of addiction’s harsh reality. Through this, we remember these loved ones, and are reminded of addiction’s deadly effects. The Black Poster Project increases awareness of substance use disorders, demystifies its stigma and supports the community and families in their struggles with addiction. We are grateful to those who partner with us in this important project.
CONQUERING CANCER AND ITS COSTS
“I
am so grateful for our donors who help so many people receive life-saving treatments.”
DAWN JOHNSON, MSN, RN, BC NURSE MANAGER
When faced with a serious illness, the emotional and physical challenges can be overwhelming. These challenges are often compounded by financial stress, placing an immense burden on patients and their families. Fortunately, for those receiving care at the Medical Day Stay Unit at Raritan Bay, the Jacqueline M. and Robert N. Wilentz Cancer Center Fund provides much-needed help. By supporting the purchase of critical, life-saving medications, our generous donors remove one of the most daunting barriers to care for patients battling cancer. This financial relief allows patients and their families to redirect their focus from the overwhelming costs of treatment to what truly matters: healing and recovery.
Be The Difference is a transformational effort focusing on four key pillars: enhancing the delivery of patient care, accelerating groundbreaking research and discovery, expanding access to advanced care and revolutionizing medical education while supporting the nursing profession.
Through this ambitious initiative, Hackensack Meridian Health Foundation aims to reshape health care for patients, clinicians and the diverse communities it serves, paving the way for a brighter, healthier future. Thank you for making a difference!
STRENGTHENING THE FRONTLINES
“The scholarship I received as a student at the Joint Middlesex College/Raritan Bay Medical Center School of Nursing Program helped to financially support my education by aiding in tuition support, as well as granting the ability to afford quality nursing school supplies to assess my patients during my clinical rotations. Being granted a scholarship helped to alleviate parts of the financial expenses that accompany the pursuit of a rewarding career path in nursing and patient care.”
Middlesex College’s partnership with Raritan Bay Medical Center is helping to meet the ever-growing need for outstanding nursing professionals. Each year, awards are presented to graduating students from the college’s Associate in Science Degree Nursing Program, recognizing academic and clinical excellence. Not only do these awards help students face the financial difficulties and stress associated with pursuing an education, they also offer true clinical benefits. Students are engaged in real-time experiences and observe nursing care right at the bedside. By fostering a positive experience, we are strengthening the pipeline of qualified professionals, all the while benefitting our patients.
MELISSA RUIZ
