“Over time, the surgical team becomes so proficient at using the O-arm that we can often shave off an hour from a surgery, especially in complex cases like scoliosis. We are grateful for this investment in technology.”
MD, Mark Bryniarski, MD, and Jorge Gonzales-Cruz, MD, along with physician assistants Ryan Gear and Janet Miller, have joined the team. Recruitment for additional staff continues.
EXPANDING ACCESS While neurosciences care will With these types of advanced tools and technologies in place, be centralized at Presbyterian Hospital in Albuquerque, Phase Presbyterian can better recruit 1 also includes a pilot project and retain leading specialists, for initiating the expansion of especially neurologists and tele-neurology and tele-stroke neurosurgeons, for the long capabilities. These virtual term. In addition to Dr. Sherr, services will allow patients neurosurgeons Jose Santos,
GOOD FOR THE COMMUNITY As members of the Albuquerque community off and on for nearly four decades, Duffy Swan and his wife Jean Ann understand the value of creating a strong community. “Access to high-quality, specialized healthcare draws professionals and creates opportunities for collaboration in all areas of society,” says Duffy. Duffy is the past chairman of French Family of Companies where he worked for 10 years. He also worked in the worldwide telecommunications community and served two different periods as director of development and president of the University of New Mexico Foundation. Throughout his professional life, Duffy has
always felt an obligation to help strengthen the community. His involvement in Albuquerque Economic Forum with former Presbyterian CEO Jim Hinton gave him deeper exposure to Presbyterian and its role in strengthening the community.
to receive care at their local hospitals instead of traveling to Albuquerque or other areas for care, simultaneously reducing patient capacity pressure at Presbyterian Hospital’s ICU. Phase 2 will include the creation of a dedicated Neurosurgical Intensive Care Unit. The unit will initially have six beds for neurology/stroke and complex spine and brain patients, with plans to expand to 20 beds.
In making their gift to PHF late last year, the Swans wanted to make sure their contribution would help facilitate Albuquerque’s role as a hub for expanded access to specialized healthcare.
An avid exerciser, Duffy first gained appreciation for the importance and intricacies of neurology when he required surgery for lower back pain while living in Denver in the mid-80s. “We were advised how important it was to have a good neurologist,” says Jean Ann. “Once we moved back to New Mexico, we became very aware “We’re really motivated to support this project,” says Jean Ann. “Neuroscience of how few neurosurgeons is a very key part of medicine, where so were available in Albuquerque. many doctors across so many specialties It’s such an important medical work together. We like the idea that over specialty so anything we can time, this program will grow and have do to help develop it in this greater influence over a broader area of healthcare throughout New Mexico.” community is worthwhile.” Presbyterian Healthcare Foundation 2021 DONOR IMPACT REPORT
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