News from Photobooks Content Management System

Laughter is Good Medicine for Children in the Emergency Room

Wed, 28 Jul 2010 00:00:00 EDT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACTS:
Cynthia Bacon, 718-670-2515
David Levine, 212-772-9447

New York Hospital Queens Uses Nitrous Oxide (Laughing Gas) to Help Manage Children’s Pain and Anxiety in the ER

Flushing, New York, July 28, 2010– Fewer children are crying and saying “ouch” in the pediatric emergency room at New York Hospital Queens (NYHQ) since the introduction of inhaled nitrous oxide as an option for pain management and procedural sedation.

Nitrous oxide, more commonly known as “laughing gas,” is a weak anesthetic that was first published for its use as a pain control method 215 years ago. Although is too weak a painkiller to be used in major surgery, it was found to be ideal for the lesser pain of dentistry. The inhaled gas is still used today by dentists to alleviate anxiety and pain in both children and adults.

“The idea to use nitrous oxide in the Pediatric ER came from Washington University in St. Louis, where it was pioneered,” said Gregg Rusczyk, M.D., director, NYHQ Pediatric Emergency Department. “I learned about it in my fellowship program there.”

Diane Sixsmith, M.D., chairman, Emergency Medicine, agreed with Dr. Rusczyk that the gas would be a good alternative to an IV needle. “When my daughter was little, her dentist used it,” she said. “I thought, ‘Gee, if she didn’t mind having a tooth pulled while she was wide awake, this is something we should look into.’”

Nitrous oxide is given to the child through a fruit scented face mask. This method allows the child to calm down while providing extremely effective stress and pain relief.

According to Dr. Rusczyk, the gas works within two to three minutes of application and wears off just as quickly, with no lingering after effects. “It produces a sort of floating feeling and a happy, laughing sensation,” Dr. Rusczyk said.

The Pediatric Emergency Room protocol was developed by Dr. Rusczyk in collaboration with Peter Silverberg, M.D., chairman, Anesthesiology. Patients have included a 16-month-old with a large laceration of the arm and a two-year-old with a crushed finger. Dr. Rusczyk noted, “The use of nitrous oxide makes the treatment of injuries less traumatic for the child and the parents are extremely grateful.”

The Pediatric emergency room at NYHQ is dedicated to treating the special needs of children with illnesses and injuries within a full-service hospital. The staff evaluates patients with medical, surgical, or trauma-related problems ranging from minor illnesses to life-threatening diseases and accidents. The NYHQ Emergency Department is a NYC-and NYS-designated Level 1 Trauma Center. Approximately 35,000 children are treated in the emergency room every year.

New York Hospital Queens is a member of the NewYork-Presbyterian Healthcare System and an affiliate of the Weill Medical College of Cornell University.

PHOTO RELEASE:

Todd Mastrovich, M.D, attending physician at New York Hospital Queens,
uses nitrous oxide to soothe a child in the pediatric emergency room.

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Note to Editors: Dr. Rusczyk is available for interviews. Also, we can make arrangements to have a demonstration of the nitrous oxide being used in the pediatric ER.

West Nile Virus Detected in Mosquitoes in Queens, N.Y.

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 00:00:00 EDT

MEDIA ADVISORY

CONTACT:
Cynthia Bacon
718-670-2515, crm9002@nyp.org

Dr. James Rahal, Leading West Nile Virus Expert, Available as National & Local Media Resource

Flushing, N.Y., July 22, 2010— Mosquitoes with the West Nile virus have been found in Queens and other parts of New York City. The number of mosquitoes testing positive for the virus is considered high at this point of the summer season, according to the NYC Department of Health. West Nile usually peaks in late August. So far, no human cases have been detected in New York City, although there has been a confirmed case in New Hyde Park, Long Island, a town bordering Queens.

James Rahal, M.D., one of the nation’s experts on the West Nile virus, advises New Yorkers to pay close attention to mosquito bite precautions issued by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and NYC Department of Health.

“Topping the list for West Nile virus prevention is the use of insect repellents to prevent mosquito bites,” said James Rahal, M.D., Director, Infectious Disease Division, New York Hospital Queens. “Mosquitoes transmit the virus to humans. West Nile infection can cause meningitis or encephalitis, which can result in a potentially fatal inflammation of the brain or spinal cord.”

For more information on mosquito precautions, go to: http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/westnile/ or full list of zip codes where West Nile has been detected, go to http://www.nyc.gov/html/doh/html/wnv/wnvactivity.shtml.

James Rahal, M.D.
Dr. James Rahal, Director of Infectious Disease, New York Hospital Queens, Professor of Medicine, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, was one of the first physicians in the U.S. to identify the mosquito-borne disease pattern, which began infecting patients in Queens, New York, in 1999. Since then, he has been working on developing an effective treatment for patients who are affected with the disease. In August 2002, Dr. Rahal was authorized by the FDA to start a national treatment trial for patients with severe West Nile infection using a drug called alpha-interferon. The clinical trial is ongoing and physicians are encouraged to enroll infected patients in the study. So far, there is no cure for West Nile virus.

New York Hospital Queens
New York Hospital Queens is a member of the NewYork-Presbyterian Healthcare System and is an affiliate of Weill Medical College of Cornell University.

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NOTE TO EDITOR: Contact us for an opportunity to interview Dr. Rahal about his research on West Nile virus and preventative measures.

Dr. Marios Gagos Opens Cardiology Practice in Astoria

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 00:00:00 EDT

NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Cynthia Bacon (718) 670-2515
crm9002@nyp.org

Member of Hellenic Medical Society, Board-Certified in Cardiovascular Diseases

Flushing, New York, July 12, 2010– Marios D. Gagos, D.O., a board-certified cardiologist, has opened a private practice office in Astoria, Queens.

Dr. Gagos, board certified in both cardiovascular diseases and nuclear cardiology, specializes in preventive cardiology, helping patients avoid or manage the early symptoms of heart disease, as well as treatment of acute conditions such as congestive heart failure and acute coronary syndromes. He is a member of the faculty of the New York Hospital Queens Heart and Vascular Center.

Dr. Gagos is a graduate of The State University of New York at Stony Brook, with a degree in pharmacology. He received his medical degree from the New York College of Osteopathic Medicine, and served his residency and cardiology fellowship at Winthrop University Hospital. He is currently pursuing an MBA degree at New York Institute of Technology.

Dr. Gagos has been involved in medical research since his training as a cardiologist and has received several awards including the Outstanding Achievement in Medical Research Award at Winthrop University Hospital. Studies in which he has participated have been published in notable journals including the Journal of the American College of Cardiology (ACC), and he has presented at the annual scientific meeting of the ACC.

Dr. Gagos is a member of the Hellenic Medical Society, is fluent in Greek and has been actively involved promoting optimal cardiovascular health and care for the Greek-American community.

Dr. Gagos’ office is located at Astoria Medical Plaza, 27–47 Crescent Street, Suite 101 in Astoria, Queens The office is equipped with advanced technologies, including echocardiography and stress testing, for diagnosis and development of patient treatment plans. The office is conveniently located and is open Monday through Friday, with same day appointments available.

Dr. Gagos may be contacted at 718-606-6800 or via www.nyhq.org (click on “Find A Physician").

Dr. Marios Gagos

New York Hospital Queens is a member of the New York-Presbyterian Healthcare System and is affiliated with Weill Cornell Medical College.

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President & CEO of New York Community Bancorp Elected to New York Hospital Queens Board of Trustees

Thu, 8 Jul 2010 00:00:00 EDT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Cynthia Bacon, 718-670-2515
crm9002@nyp.org

Flushing, N.Y., July 8, 2010 – New York Hospital Queens has elected a new member to the Board of Trustees, Joseph R. Ficalora, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of New York Community Bancorp.

Under Mr. Ficalora’s leadership, New York Community Bancorp has evolved from a mutual savings bank with seven branches in Queens and Nassau Counties to a publicly traded multi-bank holding company with 282 branch offices serving consumers and businesses throughout Metro New York, New Jersey, Florida, Ohio, and Arizona. New York Community Bancorp is the fourth largest thrift in the United States and the largest in New York State.

In 1965, Ficalora joined Queens County Savings Bank, now one of four divisions of New York Community Bancorp (the others are Richmond County Savings Bank, Roosevelt Savings Bank, and Roslyn Savings Bank), and has held increasingly responsible positions crossing all lines of operations during his career.

Chairman of the NYHQ Board, George F. Heinrich, M.D., stated, “Joseph Ficalora’s expertise in finance and corporate operations, as well as his commitment for growth and new opportunities in the Queens community, makes him a great addition to our Board.”

President and Chief Executive Officer, Stephen S. Mills, said, “One of our most effective strategies for making sure we deliver the right mix of services is by adding leaders who combine a hands-on knowledge of this community with a track record of engagement in it. Joe Ficalora absolutely brings those assets to our board. He was born and bred in Corona Queens; the financial institution he runs has its roots right here in Queens and he is an active board member for some of the borough’s most successful arts and cultural organizations. He gives back to this community in so many ways.”

New trustee Ficalora said, “New York Hospital Queens has weathered such a challenging economic environment. Despite the financial climate, it has developed a new wing and expanded the access to health care for those people who live and work in the borough. I look forward to supporting the vision and the mission of this growing organization.”

Ficalora is an active advocate for advancements in the Queens community. A member of the Board of Directors of the Queens Chamber of Commerce since 1990, he has served on its Executive Committee since April 1992. In addition, he is chairman of the Queens Library Foundation’s board, vice president of the Library’s Board of Trustees, and serves on the boards of directors of the New York Hall of Science, Flushing Cemetery and on the Advisory Council of the Queens Museum of Art.

A graduate of Pace University with a degree in business and finance, Ficalora provides leadership to several professional banking organizations, including the American Bankers Association, the New York Bankers Association, the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York, RSI Retirement Trust and Peter B. Cannell & Co., Inc., an investment advisory firm.

Joseph Ficalora
Newest Member of the New York Hospital Queens Board of Trustees

New York Hospital Queens is a member of the NewYork-Presbyterian Healthcare System and is an affiliate of Weill Medical College of Cornell University.

New York Hospital Queens Receives Endoscopy Grant

Fri, 2 Jul 2010 00:00:00 EDT

NEWS RELEASE with PHOTOS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACTS:
Cynthia Bacon, 718-670-2515, crm9002@nyp.org
Melissa S. Nibungco, 718-670-1865, msn9002@nyp.org
Assemblywoman Ann-Margaret Carrozza, 718-357-3588

New York Hospital Queens Receives $515,000 Capital Grant
New York Hospital Queens Receives Capital Grant from Assemblywoman
Ann-Margaret Carrozza to Purchase Endoscopic Ultrasound Equipment

Flushing, N.Y., July 2, 2010 -- New York Hospital Queens received a $515,000 Community Capital Assistance Program (CCAP) grant from the New York State Legislature. Funds were used to purchase a state-of-the-art endoscopy ultrasound system (EUS), the Olympus ɑ10 (Alpha10). Assemblywoman Ann-Margaret Carrozza, who represents Assembly District 26, made the award possible by applying for capital funding on NYHQ’s behalf.

In addition to gastrointestinal diseases, the Alpha10 is used to diagnose pancreatic, esophageal, rectal, gastric and lung cancers, and other benign tumors. According to Ruth Hopkins, RN, Nurse Manager, “The Alpha10 is used daily by specialists at NYHQ to access lesions and tumors in the body without surgery. This improves patient care, and facilitates diagnosis and treatment for patients in the Queens Community.”

^{Assemblywoman Ann-Margaret Carrozza in Albany}

Assemblywoman Carrozza said: “It’s great that we have been able to work together to secure the vital funds necessary for New York Hospital Queens to purchase state-of-the-art diagnostic technology to assist patients suffering from gastrointestinal diseases.”

Stephen S. Mills, President and Chief Executive Officer of NYHQ, said “This has been one of the most challenging times in health care and I am grateful that we have advocates like Assemblywoman Ann-Margaret Carrozza, who understands that the people of Queens deserves the highest quality care right here.”

New York Hospital Queens is a member of the NewYork-Presbyterian Healthcare System and is affiliated with Weill Medical College of Cornell University.

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Robotic Gynecological Surgery Performed for the First Time in Queens, N.Y.

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 00:00:00 EDT

NEWS RELEASE with PHOTOS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACTS:
Cynthia Bacon, 718-670-2515, crm9002@nyp.org
David Levine, 212-772-9447, davidlevine51@gmail.com

New York Hospital Queens Surgeon Uses Da Vinci Robotic Surgery System® to Provide Women More Precise and Less Invasive Surgery

Flushing, N.Y., June 22, 2010– Seated comfortably at a console viewing a 3-D image of her patient, Kathy Huang, M.D., attending physician, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at New York Hospital Queens (NYHQ), performed the first gynecological robotic surgery in Queens on a 37-year-old woman who had excessive uterine bleeding and an ovarian tumor.

The minimally invasive surgery was successful, the patient’s fertility was preserved and the woman was able to go home the same day. As a robotic surgery specialist, Dr. Huang has received advanced training in minimally invasive robotic surgery. Dr. Huang is the only gynecological surgeon in Queens offering robotic surgery to women.

Prior to coming to New York Hospital Queens, Dr. Huang has treated hundreds of women using robotic technology. Since New York Hospital Queens installed the robot in May, Dr. Huang has performed 10 cases—all with excellent outcomes.

“The success of these first robotic cases is a tribute to the experience and skill of Dr. Huang, and the planning and the preparation of her surgical team, said Gary Eglinton, M.D., Chairman, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York Hospital Queens. “We are thrilled to be able to offer women in Queens robotic surgery which is the most high-tech, minimally invasive surgery available.”

^{Photo demonstrating the da Vinci Robotic Surgery Si System.}

^{Kathy Huang, M.D., robotic surgery specialist at New York Hospital Queens.}

The hospital is using the new third generation da Vinci Robotic Surgery Si System, the most advanced model available. It has been shown to provide superior clinical results when compared to non-robotic traditional and scope assisted procedures because it allows the surgeon a full three-dimensional high-resolution view during the surgery.

During robotic surgery, the operative images are enhanced, refined and optimized using image synchronizers, high intensity illuminators and camera control units during the course of the surgery. Dr. Huang sits at the console while her fingers grasp the master controls, translating hand, wrist and finger movements into exact, real-time movements of surgical instruments inside the patient. At the same time, state-of-the-art robotic and computer technologies scale, filter and seamlessly translate her hand movements into precise micro-movements of the da Vinci instruments.

“The steady movements of the robotic arms allow for the highly precise removal of diseased tissue,” said Dr. Huang. “Smaller incisions typically heal much faster, require fewer sutures and are less vulnerable to tearing or infection. All of these advantages mean a speedier and less worrisome recovery period for the patient.”

Dr. Huang says robotic surgery offers women an attractive alternative to invasive open surgery to treat fibroids, endometriosis, ovarian tumors and chronic pelvic pain.

“Traditional open gynecologic surgery uses a large incision for access to the uterus and surrounding anatomy, “says Dr. Huang. Although it has been the standard approach to many gynecologic procedures, it can cause more pain, and a longer recovery process. Through tiny, 1 to 2 centimeter incisions, surgeons who use the da Vinci System are able to operate with greater precision and control which helps to minimize the pain and risk associated with large incisions while increasing the likelihood of a fast recovery and excellent clinical outcomes.”

New York Hospital Queens is a member of the NewYork-Presbyterian Healthcare System and an affiliate of the Weill Medical College of Cornell University.

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Note to Editors: Dr. Huang is available for interviews. She is a member of the American Association of Gynecological Lapraroscopists and the American Society of Reproductive Medicine. Dr. Huang has numerous clinical presentations and publications to her credit, including such journals as Fertility Sterility, the official journal of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, and the Journal of Minimally Invasive Gynecology. Dr. Huang is fluent in Mandarin and Cantonese.

New Wing Opens at Leading Hospital in Queens

Thu, 17 Jun 2010 00:00:00 EDT

NEWS RELEASE with PHOTOS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACTS:
Cynthia Bacon, 718-670-2515, crm9002@nyp.org
David Levine, 212-772-9447, davidlevine51@gmail.com
Debra Pagano Cohen, 718-670-1586, dec9067@nyp.org

New York Hospital Queens completes construction of seven-floor, 80-bed facility on main campus increasing access to high-demand patient care services

FLUSHING, N.Y., June 16, 2010 -- Today, hundreds of employees and volunteers, medical staff, administrators and trustees of New York Hospital Queens, along with numerous community leaders, marked the completion of the hospital’s new wing with a ceremonial ribbon cutting, and proclamations from state and city elected officials. The new seven-floor facility, known as the “West Wing,” has 190,000 square feet, and adds 80 certified patient beds, bringing the hospital’s total to 519. This construction, plus a three level parking facility, was completed in 40 months. The total cost of the project was approximately $210 million.

“This is a time of extraordinary challenge for every hospital in the country. It took a great deal of support and perseverance to bring this facility to completion in the midst of a serious recession and the unknowns of health care reform,” said Stephen S. Mills, president and chief executive officer. “Right here in Queens we saw several institutions close while our expansion project was underway. This drove us to create an environment where our community can be confident they will have access to trusted expertise, advanced technology, and a level of quality and service that will help them heal close to home,” he added.

Features of the new wing include medical/surgical units with private and semi-private rooms, and the centralization of the hospital’s high demand cardiovascular and orthopedic services. To increase patient access and convenience, the ground floor includes a new ambulatory surgery center with 10 new operating rooms and 33 recovery beds. The expansion also increases hospital’s overall capacity to perform surgical and interventional procedures with a unique hybrid operating suite for endovascular and interventional radiology procedures that can be converted to perform vascular procedures in the same room, whenever the need arises.

The wing includes a number of amenities designed to ease access for patients and families. A spectacular four-lane drop off and entryway is located on Main Street, near the corner of Booth Memorial Avenue. A new lobby welcomes visitors with messages in the languages used most in the diverse neighborhoods of Queens County.

“People in Queens deserve the best healthcare available anywhere, and our medical staff and employees have worked very hard to have NYHQ be the hospital of choice for physicians and patients in this community,” said Mills. “This new facility and everything we have invested in it gives us an opportunity to increase the number of people we can care for – safely, conveniently, and close to where they live or work,” he added.

New York Hospital Queens is a member of the NewYork-Presbyterian Healthcare System and an affiliate of the Weill Medical College of Cornell University.

Financing

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) was the primary funding source for the project. The Hospital's first FHA-insured loan was done in 1978. Since then, HUD has insured two additional mortgage loans for the Hospital, a $60 million loan in 1999 to finance the East Wing, and the $175 million loan in 2007 that funded a new parking facility and the West Wing. “Working with the personnel at HUD's Office of Health Care Programs and Office of Architecture and Engineering, we developed an extraordinary project,” said Mary Gavin, Vice President of Tyll & LaVigne, which is the hospital’s FHA banker. “Without the HUD mortgage insurance, the loans would have been far more costly for the Hospital, and we probably would have had to limit the scope of the projects--but because the HUD mortgage insurance program was available to us, we are able to provide more for the Queens community,” she added.

Architecture and Design

NYHQ selected Perkins Eastman for the project. Perkins Eastman is among the top architecture and design firms in the world. The firm prides itself on inventive and compassionate design that enhances the quality of the human experience and enriches whole communities. According to Frank Gunther AIA, Principal-in-Charge at Perkins Eastman, “The completion of the West Wing at New York Hospital Queens is the culmination of five years of collaboration between a visionary client and a committed design team. The state-of-the-art facility creates a new public face for the hospital that truly reflects the high level of care within it.”
“The design of the new West Wing at New York Hospital Queens combines the latest in medical technology with a holistic approach to healing. Patients and visitors will feel embraced upon arrival, and will experience an unparallel quality of care in spaces that are light-filled and soothing,” Gunther added.

Construction

Barr & Barr has served as the construction manager for the project. According to John Decina, CEO of Barr & Barr, Inc., the building plan had a number of complex elements. In order to build the new wing an existing parking structure on Main Street needed to be demolished. To accommodate the cars displaced by this demolition, a new parking garage needed to be constructed on a separate site on Booth Memorial Avenue. “Since this parking facility is in the midst of the community and surrounded by private homes, the challenge was to try to maintain a minimally invasive environment for neighbors. When the parking facility was completed, Barr & Barr received compliments from the community on how smooth the construction went,” Decina said.
Early visionary thinking by NYHQ enabled the new hospital wing to be designed with the structural capacity to support additional floors. As the project proceeded, the decision was made to add two floors to the original plan. These will remain as vacant space and may be eventually be fitted out to further improve and modernize the hospital.

Barr & Barr believes that building relationships is as important as building quality projects, with a track record of over 85% repeat clients, Barr & Barr, specializes in both and has developed a reputation for personalized service, which is the cornerstone of their business philosophy. Barr & Barr is proud to have served as Construction Manager on this important project for NYHQ and the Queens community served by the hospital.

PHOTOS:

^{Cutting the ribbon is Stephen S. Mills, President and Chief Executive Officer, New York Hospital QUeens (pictured, center, with large scissors), he is joined by George Heinrich, M.D., Chairman of the Board, New York Hospital Queens; John Liu, NYC Comptroller; Queens Borough President Helen Marshall; Herbert Pardes, M.D., President and Chief Executive Officer, NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital and NewYork-Presbyterian Healthcare System; as well as a patient and hospital staff, including doctors, a nurse, physicians's assistant, housekeeper, engineer, a cook and Emergency Room tech.}

^{"June 16, 2010 is proclaimed to be 'New York Hospital Queens day'," said Queens Borough President Helen Marshall.}

^{"Our story today isn't only about a new building; it is about what will be inside of this building-- both the people who will work in it, and those who will be cared for in it-- that's what matters the most," said Stephen S. Mills, President and Chief Executive Officer, New York Hospital Queens, to an audience of more than 700 people.}

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New York Hospital Queens Gala Honors Medical Pioneer; Raises $850,000; Bill Cosby Performs

Tue, 8 Jun 2010 00:00:00 EDT

NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:

Cynthia Bacon (718) 670-2515
crm9002@nyp.org

New York Hospital Queens Gala Honors Medical Pioneer Dr. Julian De Lia
More Than $850,000 Donated at Fundraiser Featuring Performance by Bill Cosby

Flushing, New York, June 8, 2010—A number of women and their twin children joined New York Hospital Queens at Lincoln Center last night to laud Julian De Lia, M.D., for his work to treat a syndrome that can impair or cause the death of twins in the womb.
He was conferred the hospital’s highest honor, the Pacesetter Award.

Dr. De Lia is the founder and medical director of the International Institute for the Treatment of Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome located at Wheaton Franciscan Healthcare- St. Joseph in Milwaukee, WI.

“I am so pleased that Dr. De Lia’s work shines a light on the expertise required to keep women safe in pregnancy, and to bring healthy babies into this world under very difficult circumstances,” said Gary Eglinton, M.D., Chairman, Obstetrics and Gynecology, New York Hospital Queens.

The Pacesetter award is presented each year at the hospital’s signature fundraising event, A Spring Night Gala, to an individual who has had a major impact on the advancement of patient care, medical education, research and the well-being of the human community. As Dr. De Lia was presented the award, five mothers and their twin children, aged 8 years to 8 months, joined Dr. De Lia on stage as a testament to his life’s work.

The ceremony was attended by 2,500 employees and hospital benefactors and featured a private performance by legendary comedian, Bill Cosby. The gala also raised more than $850,000 to support hospital programs.

“This year we have given back to our honoree as a way to support his life’s work,” said Stephen S. Mills, President and Chief Executive Officer, upon the presentation of a $10,000 check to Dr. De Lia for the Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome Institute. “We extend our appreciation to his family and friends—we know that people who set the pace in medicine also must have great people beside and around them.”

PHOTOS & CAPTIONS:

Surrounded by the families that he was able to help build his groundbreaking work to treat Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome, Julian De Lia, M.D. is pictured, center, with the 2010 Pacesetter Award.

Left to right: Stephen S. Mills, President and Chief Executive Officer, NYHQ; Julian De Lia, M.D., pioneer in maternal fetal medicine and Pacesetter honoree; comedian Bill Cosby; and George Heinrich, M.D., Chairman, Board of Trustees, NYHQ.

Julian De Lia, M.D., (second, from left) is presented $10,000 by New York Hospital Queens for his work as founder and medical director of the Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome Institute. Pictured, left to right, George Heinrich, M.D., Chairman, Board of Trustees, NYHQ; Dr. De Lia; Margaret Danek, R.N., Director of Quality Management, NYHQ, and Gala Committee Co-Chair; Stephen S. Mills, President and Chief Executive Officer, NYHQ; David Snyder, M.D., Neurologist, Director of The Multiple Sclerosis Center, and Gala Committee Co-Chair; and Peter Silverberg, M.D., Chairman, Anesthesiology and Gala Committee Co-Chair.

New York Hospital Queens is a member of the NewYork-Presbyterian Healthcare System and is affiliated with Weill Medical College of Cornell University.

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Ribbon-Cutting Celebration Marks Completion of New "West Wing" Building at New York Hospital Queens

Tue, 8 Jun 2010 00:00:00 EDT

MEDIA ADVISORY/PHOTO OPPORTUNITY

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Cynthia Bacon
crm9002@nyp.org
(718) 670-2515

EVENT:
New York Hospital Queens will celebrate the completion of its new seven-story “West Wing” Building with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and reception. State and local officials, including Queens Borough President Helen Marshall, are expected to be in attendance.

Join us for tours of the new patient areas and operating rooms, as well as panoramic views of Queens from the top of the new seven-story building. A tour can be arranged before, during or following the event.

WHEN:
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
5:30 p.m.

WHERE:
New York Hospital Queens – 56-45 Main Street, Flushing, NY 11355
Celebration to be held outside the new lobby entrance on Main Street, near the corner of Booth Memorial Avenue.
Free valet parking available (RSVP required).

BACKGROUND:
Forty months ago, in February 2007, the hospital celebrated the groundbreaking ceremony for the $210 million modernization and expansion program. This ribbon-cutting milestone marks the day that New York Hospital Queens will expand community access to health care for our fast-growing population, right here in Queens.

The modernization includes a new seven-story structure with 80 medical/surgical beds. The new building will give New York Hospital Queens the capability to expand services that are in high demand, such as cardiovascular and ambulatory surgery facilities.

For more about the Major Modernization Program, click here.

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Gala at Lincoln Center Honors Medical Pioneer; Bill Cosby Performs

Tue, 25 May 2010 00:00:00 EDT

MEDIA ADVISORY
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:

Cynthia Bacon (718) 670-2515
crm9002@nyp.org

SAVE THE DATE: June 7, 2010

NEW YORK HOSPITAL QUEENS, PATIENTS HONOR
FETAL MEDICINE PIONEER, DR. JULIAN DE LIA
Thousands to attend Gala fundraiser featuring private performance
by comedian Bill Cosby

EVENT: On June 7, more than 2,500 employees, friends and benefactors of New York Hospital Queens will celebrate the extraordinary contributions of fetal medicine specialist, Julian De Lia, M.D. He is being honored for his pioneering work in the development of a treatment for Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome.

A number of his patients— mothers and their twin children— who are the living testament to Dr. De Lia’s work will join the hospital in honoring him at Lincoln Center.

The 2010 A Spring Night Gala is the hospital’s major fundraising event, and includes a live, private performance by one of America’s most prolific comedians, Bill Cosby. Proceeds from the fundraising event are critical to the hospital’s ability to expand services in the fast-growing Queens community.

WHERE:
David H. Koch Theater
Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, Broadway at 63rd Street, New York, NY, 10023

WHEN:
Monday, June 7, 2010 (press credentials please)
6:00 p.m.: Cocktails and Dinner (7:00 p.m. Brief Presentation)
9:00 p.m.: Ceremony honoring Dr. Julian De Lia
9:30 p.m.: Private comedic performance by Bill Cosby

FYI:
Internationally known obstetrician/gynecologist Julian De Lia, M.D., was selected to be the 2010 recipient of the hospital’s prestigious Pacesetter Award for his contributions in the treatment of Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS). TTTS is a disease of the placenta that is shared by identical twins. The death rate for twins who develop TTTS may be as high as 80 to 100 percent. Dr. De Lia developed a laser surgery technique that is more successful overall than other treatments available, and it is now performed in many U.S hospitals and abroad.

TTTS occurs when twins or multiple fetuses share a single placenta containing connective blood vessels. The result may be an uneven blood flow in which one fetus receives too much blood and the other too little. Dr. De Lia’s technique disconnects these vessels. When the operation is performed, in 90 percent of the cases at least one twin survives, and in 66 percent of cases, both twins survive.

Since 1988, Dr. De Lia has treated patients from 43 states, two Canadian provinces, and consulted with patients and physicians from 48 states and 55 countries, including a number of patients from the New York region some of whom will attend the celebration of Dr. De Lia’s work.

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Red Cross to Hold Press Conference at New York Hospital Queens on May 14 to Announce Free Disaster Preparedness Training Sessions

Tue, 11 May 2010 00:00:00 EDT

MEDIA ADVISORY
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Marianne Darlak (212) 875-2132,
darlakm@nyredcross.org (New York Red Cross)
Cynthia Bacon (718) 670-2515,
crm9002@nyp.org (New York Hospital Queens)

EVENT:
The American Red Cross and New York Hospital Queens will hold a press conference at New York Hospital Queens on Friday, May 14, to announce several disaster preparedness training programs for the community.

The media is encouraged to attend the news conference in order to make our community aware of the free training sessions the following week. There are two tracks of sessions for the community on May 22:

Become a Disaster Reserve Volunteer
Neighborhood residents and hospital personnel are invited to become fully trained Red Cross Disaster Reserve Volunteers by attending the free Red Cross Disaster Reserve Volunteer Institute from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. If a major natural or man-made disaster strikes our area, the American Red Cross in Greater New York will need 10,000 Disaster Reserve Volunteers ready to staff up to 100 shelters and provide hundreds—or even thousands—of New Yorkers who may be forced to leave their homes with their basic needs—food, clothing, a safe place to stay and emotional support.
“Be Red Cross Ready” Emergency Preparedness Training
Participants will learn skills to help keep them and their families safe in an emergency. They will learn how to Get a Kit, Make a Plan, and Be Informed in order to reduce the risk of harm when disaster strikes. These training sessions will be offered in English, Chinese and Korean.

Representatives from the American Red Cross will discuss the programs. An emergency medicine expert from New York Hospital Queens will talk about the need of the community to be trained in emergency preparedness.

HOSTED BY:
New York Hospital Queens
(Lang Auditorium, Enter from Main Lobby on Booth Memorial Avenue)
56-45 Main Street, Flushing, N.Y., 11355

WHEN:
Friday, May 14, 2010 at 1 p.m.

ABOUT THE AMERICAN RED CROSS IN GREATER NEW YORK:
The American Red Cross in Greater New York (ARC/GNY) is a key humanitarian partner and a vital participant in New York’s plans and programs to help over nine million people in New York City and Orange, Putnam, Rockland and Sullivan counties prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies. The Chapter responds to an average of 7 emergencies a day—fires, floods, building collapses—and provides immediate humanitarian aid to as many as 100,000 people affected by these emergencies each year. Additionally, ARC/GNY helps New York residents and businesses prepare for emergencies by offering hundreds of lifesaving courses and emergency preparedness training programs and resources.

The American Red Cross in Greater New York is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, not a government agency, and relies on donations to fund its free humanitarian services. For more information about how you can help, call 1-877-RED CROSS (1-877-733-2767) or visit www.nyredcross.org.

ABOUT NEW YORK HOSPITAL QUEENS:
New York Hospital Queens is a member of the NewYork-Presbyterian Healthcare System and is affiliated with Weill Medical College of Cornell University.

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This Mother's Day, Give the Best Gift of All: Peace of Mind

Tue, 4 May 2010 00:00:00 EDT

MEDIA ADVISORY
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Cynthia Bacon (718) 670-2515
Debra Pagano Cohen (718) 670-1586

Elected Officials and New York Hospital Queens Announce Mother's Day Campaign for Free Cancer Screenings

WHAT:
State Senator Toby Ann Stavisky and Assemblywoman Grace Meng are joining with New York Hospital Queens on May 7 to promote a Mother’s Day campaign urging women to get screened for cancer. News media are encouraged to attend, and help us spread the word about one of the greatest gifts you can give your mother this Mother's Day: peace of mind.

WHERE:
Flushing Family Health Center of New York Hospital Queens
136-56 39th Ave., Second Floor, Flushing, NY

WHEN:
Friday, May 7, 2010 at 11 a.m.

FYI:
New York Hospital Queens in conjunction with the New York State Department of Health Cancer Services Program is offering breast and cervical cancer screening at their Flushing Family Health Center in Downtown Flushing.

The Cancer Services Program is free to eligible women who are uninsured, over the age of 40, and whose last mammogram was more than a year ago. The staff at the Family Health Center speaks Mandarin, Cantonese and Korean.

Eligible women should call (718) 670-1211 to schedule a comprehensive cancer screening appointment, which will include a clinical breast exam, breast self-examination instruction, mammogram, pelvic exam and Pap smear. All diagnostic follow up services related to these screenings are also free to eligible women.

New York Hospital Queens is a member of the NewYork-Presbyterian Healthcare System and is affiliated with Weill Medical College of Cornell University.

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Wedding Held for Patient at New York Hospital Queens

Tue, 20 Apr 2010 00:00:00 EDT

NEWS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Cynthia Bacon (718) 670-2515
Debra Pagano Cohen (718) 670-1586

Flushing, New York, April 20, 2010-- Saturday, April 17 was the day that bride-to-be Atina Punch, 22, of Queens Village, had planned to say “I do” before a church full of friends and family as she began married life with her fiance, William Green, 23.

However, a ruptured appendix got in the way of her long-planned church wedding and reception in Long Island. Her medical condition did not get in the way of her walking down the aisle.

The aisle just happened to be 60 miles to the West in the hospital chapel at New York Hospital Queens.

The patient had emergency surgery and her condition was improving in the days leading up to her wedding day, but her doctor determined she required more recovery time.

“I know that from the time when you are a little girl, you start to dream about what your wedding day would be,” said Christine Buividas, R.N., the nurse manager for the unit caring for Ms. Punch. “She was so sad when she heard the news she wasn’t going to be able to leave the hospital.”

The nurse asked for the help of hospital counselor Patricia Woods, Ph.D., and the hospital’s head chaplain Rabbi David Keehn to see if New York Hospital Queens could enter a new line of business—wedding catering. The answer was yes, of course, in setting up a special day for her patient, and Ms. Buividas had the full support of the hospital.

Twenty-four hours later Ms. Buividas was sitting in the audience as Atina Lashelle Punch and William Bernard Green were pronounced man and wife in the hospital’s chapel.

The bride and groom were joined by 35 members of their immediate family and closest friends to witness their special day.

“It was great. I really enjoyed myself,” said the newlywedded Mrs. Green. “I didn’t even feel like I was in the hospital. There were flowers, hors d'oeuvres, a wedding cake, my own minister. I even got a bouquet to walk down the aisle while on the arm of my father.”

Although, the couple have rescheduled the church wedding, reception and honeymoon in Jamaica in the next few weeks, April 17, 2010, is the day written on their marriage certificate and etched in their memories forever.

“I have to thank everybody for all their support… my family, my friends and the hospital staff,” said the bride. “My sister and I were born here. This is my family’s hospital. When I have my kids, I will be right here.”

PHOTO COLLAGE:

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NOTE TO EDITOR: The people named above gave us permission to disclose their names, personal information and photos contained in the news release.

New York Hospital Queens Presents "State of the Hospital"

Tue, 13 Apr 2010 00:00:00 EDT

For Immediate Release
CONTACT:
Debra Pagano Cohen (718) 670-1586
Cynthia Bacon (718) 670-2515

Community leaders from throughout Queens attended New York Hospital Queens Annual "State of the Hospital" presentation on Monday, April 12, 2010 . Stephen S. Mills, President and Chief Executive Officer spoke about the hospital’s vision, accomplishments and priorities for 2010. Some of the highlights discussed included the hospital's new web site www.nyhq.org ,growth of clinical programs such as cardiovascular, orthopaedics, surgery (minimally invasive) and the comprehensive cancer center. The hospital announced that beginning in May, the DaVinci Robot will be uilized for minimally invasive surgeries such as gynecologic procedures.

Mr. Mills also described the external influences that impact the hospital such as global economy, health care budget reductions, insurance and health care reform. He described the impact that the closure of the surrounding hospitals has had on New York Hospital Queens. He emphasized the need for funding for expansion of the Emergency Department, Intensive Care Unit beds and more primary care facilities to accommodate the increased volume of patients Queens-wide.

The following physicians from the hospital presented detailed updates on clinical programs:
· Jeffrey Rosen, M.D., Chairman,Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation,
· Chong Park, M.D., Director,Cardiology
· Mitchell Chorost, M.D., Director, Surgical Oncology
· Kathy Huang, M.D., Attending Obstetric/Gynecology, Specialty minimally invasive and robotic surgery.

Pictured are Chong Park, M.D., Kathy Huang, M.D., Stephen S. Mills, Mitchell Chorost, M.D.and Jeffrey Rosen, M.D.

The presentation included a virtual video tour of the new seven-story “West Wing” building slated to be completed in June. A Ribbon Cutting and Reception to celebrate the completion of the new building is scheduled for Wednesday, June 16 at 5:30 p.m.

New York Hospital Queens is a member of the NewYork-Presbyterian Healthcare System and is affiliated with Weill Medical College of Cornell University.

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www.nyhq.org

New York City Council To Issue Proclamation on April 14 to New York Hospital Queens for H1N1 Vaccination Efforts

Tue, 13 Apr 2010 00:00:00 EDT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Cynthia Bacon (718) 670-2515
Debra Pagano Cohen (718) 670-1586

WHAT:
The New York City Council will be issuing a proclamation honoring New York Hospital Queens and 18 other sites that were part of a H1N1 vaccination point-of-distribution program in New York City during fall 2009.

WHERE:
City Council Chambers, City Hall, 1 Centre Street, New York, NY, 10007

WHEN:
Wednesday, April 14, 2010, 1 p.m. (estimated)

REQUIRED:
Press credentials will be required to enter the facilities. Interviews and specific photo opportunities may be requested in advance.

FYI:
Doing their part to help curb the spread of H1N1 “swine flu” virus last fall, nurses and doctors from New York Hospital Queens vaccinated more than 700 people.

All of the health center sites underwent special emergency preparedness training from the Primary Care Development Corporation (PCDC) in collaboration with the NYC Department of Health, and with key support from the NYC Council. More than 7,000 New Yorkers were vaccinated as part of this program last fall.

Expected attendees include: Members of City Council, primary care center executives and vaccination team leaders, Primary Care Development Corporation (PCDC) leadership.

New York Hospital Queens is a member of the NewYork-Presbyterian Healthcare System and is affiliated with Weill Medical College of Cornell University.

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