BETTER CARE FOR BABIES
“We are excited to offer this vital service to our patients in the community and grateful for our donors who make it possible.”
JENNIFER ROCHESKEY, WHNP-BC, RN, MSN, RNC-OB, CBC NURSE MANAGER, MATERNAL CHILD HEALTH
Thanks to the support of our donors, plans are underway for Hackensack Meridian Southern Ocean Medical Center’s maternity unit to apply for designation as a Level II provider of special care nursery services. Level II units offer the necessary technology and services for moderate-to high-risk conditions through childbirth and beyond. The time surrounding the birth of a child is very special, and as the community has seen an influx of younger families, Southern Ocean wants to make sure that newborns can receive all necessary care, close to home. Having this designation enables more patients needing specialized services to stay in the community, without requiring transfer to another hospital for treatment.
EXPANDING INFUSION SERVICES
Southern Ocean Medical Center is deeply committed to addressing the health concerns of our community’s residents where they live, play and work. As the demand for outpatient services continues to grow, and recognizing the critical importance of timely care, our Cancer Center has made a substantial impact by increasing the number of infusion team members. This allows us to accommodate more patients and provide them with the care they need in a more efficient manner. With the additional team members and expanded operating hours, cancer patients can now receive their treatments more quickly, reducing the stress and inconvenience of traveling long distances for care.
We are incredibly grateful to our generous donors whose support enables us to make such meaningful contributions to our community.
PROJECT AWARE: EMPOWERING STUDENTS THROUGH DRAMA
Project Aware is a unique and impactful program designed to inform and educate sixth-grade students at the local middle school about the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse. Through a dramatic presentation, the program connects with students’ lives and experiences, offering them a realistic portrayal of the consequences of making poor choices. By using a dramatic, real-life situation, Project Aware highlights scenarios that are relatable and recognizable, making the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse more tangible. This connection is crucial in helping students realize that they have the power to make smart decisions in their own lives. Southern Ocean Medical Center is immensely grateful for the generous donor support and the partnership with the Stafford Township school system, police department and EMS. These partnerships ensure that the program is both comprehensive and impactful.
THE FUTURE OF SURGICAL SERVICES
“We deeply appreciate our generous donors who enable us to provide top-notch medical care services right here in our community. Keeping our community members close to home when they need care is invaluable, allowing them to have the support of their family and friends nearby.”
MARYCLAIR REESE, RN, MSN, CNOR, NE-BC
INTERIM
DIRECTOR OF
SERVICES
Southern Ocean’s surgical services are expanding to enhance patient care right in the community. Operating room capacity will increase from four to six operating rooms, allowing for more surgeries and reduced wait times. Dedicated space for robotic technology will improve efficiencies in the suite, and a modern waiting area will enhance comfort, featuring a new system to keep families updated on patient progress. A new sterile processing department will triple its current capacity, ensuring high hygiene standards for patient safety throughout the hospital. We are so grateful to our donors, who help us bring the best surgical services to our community.
CELEBRATING OUR EXCEPTIONAL NURSES
“I was very honored to have received this award, and I used it towards a wonderful vacation in Aruba where I went to the best restaurants and enjoyed the sunsets.”
JULIE GEORGE, RN, BSN AWARD RECIPIENT
Southern Ocean’s Nurse Excellence Awards celebrate the dedication and exceptional service of nurses who consistently go above and beyond in their profession. One of the most distinctive aspects of Southern Ocean’s Nurse Excellence Awards is that they are peer-nominated, a testament to the respect and admiration recipients earn from those who understand the demands and rewards of the nursing profession. Awardees have the freedom to use the award funds at their discretion, choosing to invest in furthering their education, offset the often substantial costs associated with professional development or indulge in an experience that brings joy and rejuvenation. This flexibility ensures that the awards truly benefit the recipients in ways that are most meaningful to them. We are so grateful for the donor generosity that makes this special recognition possible.
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!
CARE COMPANIONS: PARTNERS IN HEALING
“My husband has been in and out of the hospital for a month, and I find this program comforting for both of us. The nurses are great!”
MARY D.
GRATEFUL FAMILY MEMBER
When someone is admitted to the hospital, it can be a daunting and emotional experience, not only for the patient, but also for their family. The presence of family members can play a crucial role in the patient’s healing process and overall hospital experience. Southern Ocean’s Care Companion Program is designed to foster this invaluable support by allowing a family member to be at the patient’s bedside 24/7. Having a loved one nearby can significantly enhance a patient’s emotional well-being, which can positively affect their recovery. A familiar face can reduce anxiety, loneliness and stress, contributing to a more positive mindset that is conducive to healing. Family members act as advocates to ensure that communication between the medical team and the patient is clear and effective, leading to improved patient safety and better health outcomes. In addition, the hospital provides meal vouchers and other items to make their stay more comfortable. We are grateful to our donors for this compassionate support.
