News from New York Hospital Queens

NYHQ Provides Free Stroke Risk Assessments and Lectures to the Community

Tue, 7 May 2013 00:00:00 EDT

PHOTO RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Allison Fleming
718-670-2374
Alf9034@nyp.org

NYHQ Provides Free Stroke Risk Assessments and Lectures to the Community

Flushing, N.Y., May 7, 2013 — Medical and nursing staff from New York Hospital Queens provided free stroke risk assessments to close to 80 members of the community in recognition of National Stroke Awareness Month. Participants also attended lectures on stroke, seizures, multiple sclerosis, back pain and headaches, and had questions answered by the hospital’s medical experts.

Stroke is the #4 killer in the U.S., and is a leading cause of adult disability. Each year, about 800,000 people in the U.S. suffer from a stroke.

The NYHQ Neuroscience Institute is comprised of several specialty centers — the Center for Developmental Disabilities, the Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, the New York State Designated Stroke Center, the Multiple Sclerosis Center and the Neuromuscular/Spine Center.

New York Hospital Queens is a member of the NewYork-Presbyterian Healthcare System and is affiliated with Weill Medical College of Cornell University. For more information on New York Hospital Queens, visit www.nyhq.org.

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A physician assistant reviews a participant’s stroke risk assessment and offers risk-lowering advice.

According to the National Stroke Association, high blood pressure is the most important risk factor for stroke. NYHQ’s stroke risk assessments always include a blood pressure reading.

New York Hospital Queens provided close to 80 stroke risk assessments in recognition of Stroke Awareness Month.

Note to Editor: The participants granted written permission, in accordance with HIPAA regulations, to use these photos.

NYHQ to Offer Free Stroke Assessments on May 3

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 00:00:00 EDT

MEDIA ALERT
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Allison Fleming
718-670-2374
Alf9034@nyp.org

                                                        NYHQ to Offer Free Stroke Assessments on May 3

                                                  Free Lectures Throughout the Day on Stroke, Seizures,
                                                      Multiple Sclerosis, Back Pain and Headaches

WHAT:
As a designated stroke center, New York Hospital Queens will offer free stroke risk assessments and lectures for the community in recognition of National Stroke Awareness Month. Stroke is the #4 killer in the U.S. and the leading cause of adult disability. Participants can schedule an assessment appointment by calling (800) 282-6684.

WHO:
In addition to providing stroke risk assessments, physicians will lecture on stroke, seizures, multiple sclerosis, back pain and headaches. Members of the press will have the opportunity to take photos and interview Edward Chai, M.D., director, Neuroscience Institute, NYHQ, about the signs of stroke, stroke prevention and treatment options.

WHEN:
Friday, May 3
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Members of the press are asked to attend between 11 a.m. and noon

WHERE:
New York Hospital Queens
Lang Lobby
56-45 Main Street, Flushing, N.Y.

ABOUT NEW YORK HOSPITAL QUEENS
The NYHQ Neuroscience Institute is comprised of several specialty centers — the Center for Developmental Disabilities, the Comprehensive Epilepsy Center, New York State Designated Stroke Center, Multiple Sclerosis Center and the Neuromuscular/Spine Center.

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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NYHQ First Hospital to Meet Mayor Bloomberg’s Challenge to Reduce Carbon Emissions by 30 Percent

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 00:00:00 EDT

NEWS RELEASE/PHOTO RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Allison Fleming
718-670-2374
Alf9034@nyp.org

NYHQ First Hospital to Meet Mayor Bloomberg’s Challenge
to Reduce Carbon Emissions by 30 Percent

Flushing, N.Y., April 24, 2013 — New York Hospital Queens (NYHQ) celebrated Earth Day by hosting a fair that showcased the hospital’s green initiatives that benefit the community, patients and the bottom line. These green initiatives helped NYHQ meet Mayor Bloomberg’s challenge to area hospitals, universities and businesses to reduce overall carbon emissions by 30 percent over ten years. Last week, the Mayor announced that NYHQ is the first participating hospital to meet and exceed his challenge by reducing emissions by 31 percent in only two years.

“Our goal is to reduce the hospital’s environmental impact and support the health and well-being of our patients and our community,” said Kevin Mannle, associate vice president, Facilities Management, NYHQ. “Participating in the Mayor’s challenge encouraged the hospital to accelerate our green program and we are proud to have met this challenge. NYHQ is continuously committed to sustaining the environment through expanding our green initiatives.”

Several initiatives featured at the Earth Day Fair helped NYHQ meet the Mayor’s challenge and save the hospital approximately $2.5 million each year:
•  Replaced a gas fired absorption chiller with a high efficiency electric chiller
•  Replaced a large oil-burning boiler plant with a new boiler plant that burns natural gas
•  Retro-commissioned a 30-year-old air handling unit which now uses 25 percent less energy while supplying more air
•  Computerized controls to reduce energy consumption from heating, ventilation and air conditioning equipment
•  Implemented controls to turn off lights in commercial buildings when not being utilized
•  Built all new construction to higher efficiency standards
• Launched an internal education campaign to encourage more energy efficient practices

NYHQ also implemented a recycling program. Now,
• Regulated medical waste accounts for less than 5 percent of all waste
• More than 17 percent of all waste is recycled
• More than 21 percent of hospital waste is diverted from traditional municipal waste streams
• A bio digester, an organic waste decomposition system, processes 400 lbs. of food waste per day (about 4% of the hospital’s total waste stream)

One of the latest projects underway is the installation of more than 20,000 square feet of modular green roof on the hospital's main campus. In partnership with Manhattan College, this project was created to decrease the amount of storm water and sewer overflow into adjacent waterways. To learn more about NYHQ’s green initiatives, visit www.nyhq.org/gogreen.

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NYHQ is an Environmental Protection Agency WaterSense partner and promotes water conservation throughout the hospital’s facilities. The West Building of NYHQ is fitted with low flow water fixtures to help conservation efforts.

Kevin Mannle, associate vice president, Facilities Management, NYHQ, (center) explains the benefits of a green roof installation.

Each year, the hospital vendors attend the NYHQ Earth Day Fair to educate employees and visitors on being green.

NYHQ First Hospital to Meet Mayor Bloomberg’s Challenge to Reduce Carbon Emissions by 30 Percent

Fri, 19 Apr 2013 00:00:00 EDT

MEDIA ALERT
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Allison Fleming
718-670-2374
Alf9034@nyp.org

                                      NYHQ First Hospital to Meet Mayor Bloomberg’s Challenge
                                                  to Reduce Carbon Emissions by 30 Percent

                              NYHQ to Showcase Green Initiatives at Earth Day Fair on April 22

WHAT:
Yesterday, Mayor Bloomberg announced that NYHQ is the first participating hospital to meet his challenge to reduce overall greenhouse gas emissions by 30 percent over ten years. NYHQ met and exceeded that target in only two years with a reduction of 31 percent to date.

To find out how NYHQ met this goal and more about how the hospital’s green initiatives benefit the community, patients and the bottom line, attend the NYHQ Earth Day Fair.

WHO:
Members of the NYHQ Sustainability Council will discuss the hospital’s waste and energy reduction strategies, recycling program and infrastructure projects. Members of the press will also have the opportunity to visit the hospital’s green roof and see the new electric chiller.

WHEN:
Monday, April 22, 2013
Noon

WHERE:
New York Hospital Queens
Lang Lobby
56-45 Main Street, Flushing, N.Y.

ABOUT NEW YORK HOSPITAL QUEENS
New York Hospital Queens is a member of the NewYork-Presbyterian Healthcare System and an affiliate of the Weill Medical College of Cornell University. To learn more about NYHQ’s green initiatives, visit www.nyhq.org/gogreen.

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Five Tips to Go Greener at Home (And Save Money, Too!)

Thu, 4 Apr 2013 00:00:00 EDT

TIP SHEET
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Allison Fleming (New York Hospital Queens)
(718) 670-2374, alf9034@nyp.org

Note to Editor: In recognition of Earth Day, New York Hospital Queens (NYHQ) promotes the importance of being “green” to sustain a clean, healthy environment for the community. NYHQ will host an Earth Day fair showcasing green practices the hospital has adopted on Monday, April 22, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., in the hospital’s Lang Lobby.

If you have any questions, want to attend the fair, or to interview the leader of the hospital’s Green Team, please contact us.

Five Tips to Go Greener at Home (And Save Money, Too!)

April 22 is Earth Day — a day to recognize the importance of sustaining a healthy environment. Through simple adjustments in daily activities, members of the community can easily reduce energy and water usage and ultimately, help sustain our environment and save money.

The Green Team at New York Hospital Queens offers several green practices that can be easily adopted into the lives of community members:

1. Choose energy efficient appliances. Consider energy efficiency when buying new windows, doors, appliances and electronics. These products may be more expensive to buy, but over time can save about 30 percent on an energy bill.

ENERGY STAR-qualified appliances use 10 to 50 percent less electricity than standard models. ENERGY STAR is a government-backed program helping businesses and individuals protect the environment through superior energy efficiency.

2. Unplug appliances and equipment when not in use. Televisions, cable boxes, computers and chargers still use energy when they are plugged in an outlet. Turn off and unplugged these devices daily.

3. Take showers instead of baths. Showers generally use half as much hot water as baths. To conserve more water, reduce shower time to five minutes.

4. Let daylight do the work. During the day, open curtains and blinds to let sunlight in. Be sure to turn off lights near windows.

5. Lower the thermostat. Health permitting, set the thermostat to 68 degrees during the day and 60 degrees at night and when no one is home. Each degree over 68 can increase the amount of energy used for heating by three percent.

NYHQ has “green” partnerships with federal, state, and city agencies, including the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Energy, New York State Research and Development Authority, and the New York City Economic Development Corporation. The hospital’s initiatives include energy programs, recycling efforts, water conservation, a carbon emissions reduction plan and other sustainability efforts. For more about the hospital’s green practices, visit: http://nyhq.org/gogreen.

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New York Hospital Queens Department of Surgery Adds Two New Specialty Surgeons

Wed, 6 Mar 2013 00:00:00 EST

NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Allison Fleming (718) 670-2374
alf9034@nyp.org

New York Hospital Queens Department of Surgery Adds Two New Specialty Surgeons

Flushing, N.Y., March 6, 2013 – New York Hospital Queens (NYHQ) welcomes two surgeons, Beth Siegel, M.D., F.A.C.S., director, Breast Center and Christopher Foglia, M.D., F.A.C.S., chief, Section of Colorectal Surgery, who bring extensive experience to the hospital’s comprehensive surgery program and to the Queens community.

Most recently, Dr. Siegel served as assistant clinical professor, Department of Surgery, New York University School of Medicine. Dr. Siegel completed her internship and residency in Surgery at NYHQ, when the facility was known as Booth Memorial Medical Center. She completed her fellowship in Breast Surgery at Faulkner Hospital in Boston, Mass. Members of the community who are interested in making an appointment with Dr. Siegel can call 718-670-1185.

Dr. Foglia joins NYHQ from Danbury Hospital in Connecticut where he served as assistant program director for the General Surgery Residency Program. He also served as surgical clerkship director and clinical assistant professor of Surgery for University of Vermont College of Medicine. Dr. Foglia completed his residency in General Surgery at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, in Boston, Mass. and his fellowship in Colon and Rectal Surgery at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. He is board certified in Colon and Rectal Surgery. Members of the community who are interested in making an appointment with Dr. Foglia can call 718-445-0220.

“These new surgeons will provide our community with more access to high quality surgical care right here in Queens,” said Pierre Saldinger, M.D., chairman, NYHQ Department of Surgery and surgeon-in-chief.

New York Hospital Queens is a member of the NewYork-Presbyterian Healthcare System and an affiliate of the Weill Medical College of Cornell University. For more information, visit www.nyhq.org.

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Call for Artists: Community Art Garden “Growing” at New York Hospital Queens Canvases Available for Pick-up in March

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 00:00:00 EST

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Allison Fleming (New York Hospital Queens)
(718) 670-2374, alf9034@nyp.org

Call for Artists: Community Art Garden “Growing” at New York Hospital Queens
Canvases Available for Pick-up in March

February 25, 2013 – In the coming months, the hallways at New York Hospital Queens (NYHQ) will take on a different look. The hospital is seeking local artists, including our own employees, to submit original acrylic paintings for installation in a new “community art garden.”

Much like flowers planted in the ground, the community art garden will take root when paintings from many artists are hung on the walls throughout the hospital. Artwork from the NYHQ community will help make the hallways more cheerful for patients and visitors.

Artists are being asked to demonstrate one or more of several themes in their work, healing, compassion, health, wellness, Queens, diversity and/or community. NYHQ will provide blank 12 x 12” canvases to artists.

Canvases can be picked up on:

Tuesday, March 19, 6-8 p.m., in the main lobby
Wednesday, March 20, 12-3 p.m., outside the cafeteria
Saturday, March 23, 12-4 p.m., in the main lobby
Wednesday, March 27, 12-3 p.m., outside the cafeteria

Artists must sign a release form available at the canvas pick-up or at www.nyhq.org.

Paintings and signed release forms may be submitted during the dates and times below:

Tuesday, April 16, 6-8 p.m., in the main lobby
Thursday, April 18, 12-3 p.m., outside the cafeteria

The hospital will hold a reception to thank artists once the community art garden takes root this spring.

For additional information or questions about the community art garden, contact the Division of Public Affairs and Marketing at 718-670-1065.

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New York Hospital Queens Community Advisory Council to Install Veronica Tsang as New Chairperson

Fri, 22 Feb 2013 00:00:00 EST

MEDIA ALERT/PHOTO OPPORTUNITY
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Allison Fleming (New York Hospital Queens)
(718) 670-2374, alf9034@nyp.org

New York Hospital Queens Community Advisory Council to Install Veronica Tsang as New Chairperson

WHAT:
Members of the press are invited to the installation of Veronica Tsang, senior vice president, Branch Administration, Eastern Regions, Cathay Bank and president, The Rotary Club of Flushing, as the new chairperson of the New York Hospital Queens Community Advisory Council. The NYHQ Community Advisory Council is a group of Queens business leaders and civic-minded individuals who assist the hospital in development, public affairs, community and government relations and make recommendations for the improvement of facilities and programs.

WHO:
Members of NYHQ administration, the NYHQ Community Advisory Council and elected officials will be in attendance.

WHEN:
Monday, February 25
2 p.m. - 4 p.m.

WHERE:
New York Hospital Queens – Lang Lobby (2nd floor)
56-45 Main Street, Flushing, NY 11355 (enter through Main Lobby)

ABOUT VERONICA TSANG
Veronica Tsang is a senior vice president for Cathay Bank. She manages all of the bank’s retail branch businesses in New York, New Jersey, Chicago, Boston and Texas Regions.

Prior to joining Cathay Bank in 2005, Ms. Tsang was vice president of JPMorgan Chase responsible for the Bank-at-Work Customer Support Group. During her tenure in JPMorgan Chase, Ms. Tsang was the manager for the Chase Headquarters Branch and the Chinatown Market. She initiated many successful local marketing programs to educate the Asian community about financial products and services.

Ms. Tsang is very active in numerous civic, community and non-profit organizations. She is a founder of the Chinese Gift of Life, which provides free open-heart surgery in the U.S. to children from China with congenital heart disease. She serves as president of The Rotary Club of Flushing and, the New York Chinese American Bankers Association. In addition, she is currently on the Board of the Chinese American Planning Council, Shuang Wen Academy Network, Gift of Life, Inc., Flushing Council on Culture and the Arts and Most Holy Redeemer Academy. Ms. Tsang has been a member of the NYHQ Community Advisory Council for more than 15 years.

Ms. Tsang is a graduate of Pace University and the Smith Management Program of Smith College.

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. For more information on New York Hospital Queens, visit www.nyhq.org.

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New York Hospital Queens Brings New Internal Medical Practice to Whitestone Village

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 00:00:00 EST

PHOTO RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Allison Fleming (New York Hospital Queens)
(718) 670-2374, alf9034@nyp.org

Jeff Jacomowitz (New York Hospital Queens)
(718) 670- 2515, jeff.jacomowitz@gmail.com

New York Hospital Queens Brings New Internal Medical Practice to Whitestone Village

Flushing, N.Y., February 13, 2013 — Yesterday, New York Hospital Queens (NYHQ) celebrated the opening of a new community-based practice in Whitestone Village. The new internal medical practice at 14-02 150th Street is part of an ongoing NYHQ initiative to support access to a higher level of primary and specialty care services – right here in Queens

NYHQ administration, medical staff and employees joined Senator Toby Stavisky and Council Member Dan Halloran who warmly welcomed the practice to the Whitestone community.

Internists Ambrose Pipia, M.D. and Domenick Acquista, M.D., with cardiologist, Katherine Heretis, M.D., are the first physicians to practice in this new community-based facility. They will be joined by additional NYHQ-affiliated physicians throughout 2013.

# # #

Stephen Rimar, M.D., executive vice president and chief medical officer, NYHQ; Senator Toby Stavisky; Council Member Dan Halloran; Katherine Heretis, M.D., cardiologist, NYHQ; Ambrose Pipia, M.D., internist, NYHQ; Domenick Acquista, M.D., internist, NYHQ; George Heinrich, M.D., chairman, NYHQ Board of Trustees; and Stephen S. Mills, president and chief executive officer, NYHQ, came together to celebrate the opening of the practice.

New York Hospital Queens Marks Lunar New Year by Celebrating First Baby Born in the Year of the Snake

Sun, 10 Feb 2013 00:00:00 EST

PHOTO RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Jeff Jacomowitz, Cell: 845-269-2893
Allison Fleming, Cell: 516-606-4087

New York Hospital Queens Marks Lunar New Year by
Celebrating First Baby Born in the Year of the Snake

Flushing, N.Y., February 10, 2013 — New York Hospital Queens (NYHQ) celebrated the Lunar New Year by welcoming the first baby born here in the Year of the Snake at 5:08 a.m. Baby girl Sophia, delivered by Eric Fok, M.D., attending physician, Obstetrics and Gynecology, NYHQ, was born to proud parents Mei Mei Weng and Panfei Wang.

“I had a feeling that I would have my baby on Lunar New Year's day. This is a big day for us and we're very excited," says mother, Mei Mei Weng.

The Lunar New Year is celebrated by many Asian cultures. The date of the Lunar New Year is determined by the moon's cycle and each year correlates with one of the 12 animals of the Chinese zodiac. Each animal holds a special meaning; the snake symbolizes grace and calmness.

A $250 gift card and a congratulatory basket of flowers from the hospital were among the first gifts received by the family.

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

###

Proud parents and big sister celebrate the Lunar New Year with the birth of baby Sophia.

Hallways Brighten for NYHQ Pediatric Patients

Fri, 8 Feb 2013 00:00:00 EST

PHOTO RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Allison Fleming (New York Hospital Queens)
(718) 670-2374, alf9034@nyp.org

Jeff Jacomowitz (New York Hospital Queens)
(718) 670- 2515, jeff.jacomowitz@gmail.com

April Guillerme (Starlight Children's Foundation NY*NJ*CT)
(212) 354-2878 ext 106, april@starlightnyc.org

Hallways Brighten for NYHQ Pediatric Patients

Starlight Children's Foundation and Splashes of Hope Unveiled
“Children of Queens” Murals at NYHQ Theresa Lang Children’s Ambulatory Center

Flushing, N.Y., February 8, 2013 — Yesterday, New York Hospital Queens (NYHQ) unveiled new murals that brighten the hallways, patient rooms and waiting room of the New York Hospital Queens Theresa Lang Children’s Ambulatory Center. With funding from the Starlight Children's Foundation, artists from Splashes of Hope painted the murals, “Children of Queens,” to showcase how the Queens community looks through the eyes of a child.

“This is the 17th year the center has been open in Flushing. Annually, more than 25,000 patients walk through our hallways. With the help of the Starlight Children’s Foundation and Splashes of Hope, we have created a comfortable environment for these young patients,” said Jose M. Villarin, M.D.,F.A.A.P, associate chairman, Pediatrics and director, NYHQ Theresa Lang Children’s Ambulatory Center.

The project was completed by Splashes of Hope after a year of researching the Queens community, designing the murals and painting the center. The paint was donated by Benjamin Moore & Co.

ABOUT THE NYHQ THERESA LANG CHILDREN'S AMBULATORY CENTER
The NYHQ Theresa Lang Children's Ambulatory Center, under the leadership of Joseph Abularrage, M.D., M.P.H., M.Phil.,F.A.A.P., chairman, Pediatrics, is a state-of-the-art facility that provides pediatric specialty care in surgery, cardiology, orthopaedics, gastroenterology, neurology, hematology, nephrology, pulmonology, and care for high-risk newborns, as well as routine primary and follow-up care. The center is designed to make children and parents feel as comfortable as possible. This facility is staffed by pediatricians who provide medical care for children from birth through age 21. The center receives more than 25,000 patient visits each year.

ABOUT STARLIGHT CHILDREN'S FOUNDATION NY*NJ*CT
The Starlight Children’s Foundation makes a world of difference for seriously ill children and their families. Since 1985, the NY*NJ*CT chapter has been offering hope and a brighter future for seriously ill children. The goal of the Foundation is to help these children experience the simple joys of being a child. Each year, Starlight serves more than 275,000 critically, chronically and terminally ill children both in-hospital and out-patient throughout New York, New Jersey and Connecticut. Some of the most unique programs include Great Escapes, special outings for children and their families, STARBRIGHT World, a private online community for teens who are living with chronic diseases to connect, and Hospital Happenings, including themed parties, toys, and visits from entertainers. For more information on the Starlight Children’s Foundation of NY*NJ*CT, please log on to www.starlight-newyork.org.

ABOUT SPLASHES OF HOPE
Splashes of Hope is a non-profit organization of mural artists dedicated to creating soothing and uplifting environments within hospitals and other medical settings through the creation of custom-designed, hand-painted murals that lift the spirits of patients, their families and the professionals who care for them. Today, over 300 facilities have been “splashed” and these creations can be used as a therapeutic distraction technique in pain management giving patients a soothing visual focus and they can be found in lobbies or on entrance doors to facilitate way-finding. For more information about Splashes of Hope and the splashing process, visit www.splashesofhope.org.

# # #

Staff from New York Hospital Queens, the Starlight Children’s Foundation and Splashes of Hope celebrate the unveiling of the murals in the waiting room of the center.

Emily (left) is pictured with her parents in one of the colorful patient rooms featuring Citi Field.

The patient’s family granted written permission, in accordance with HIPAA regulations, to use the child’s name and photo.

New York Hospital Queens Brings New Internal Medical Practice to Whitestone Village

Wed, 6 Feb 2013 00:00:00 EST

New York Hospital Queens Brings New Internal Medical Practice to Whitestone Village

Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony for Facility to be Held on February 12

For Immediate Release/Photo Release

CONTACT:
Jeff Jacomowitz (718) 670-1065
Jeff.Jacomowitz@gmail.com

Allison Fleming (718) 670-2374
alf9034@nyp.org

Flushing, N.Y., February 7, 2013 – New York Hospital Queens (NYHQ) has opened a community-based practice in Whitestone Village. The new internal medical practice at 14-02 150th Street is part of an ongoing NYHQ initiative to support access to a higher level of primary and specialty care services – right here in Queens. A ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new facility will take place Tuesday, February 12 at 5:30 p.m.

“Our physicians in Whitestone Village are community focused,” said Stephen S. Mills, president and chief executive officer, New York Hospital Queens. “With this practice and others throughout the borough, NYHQ is working to help make it easier for our community to access a higher level of care where they live, work, and play.”

All major insurances are accepted at the Whitestone practice. To make an appointment, call (718) 353-8933.

New York Hospital Queens is a member of the NewYork-Presbyterian Healthcare System and an affiliate of the Weill Medical College of Cornell University. For more information, visit www.nyhq.org.

# # #

Ambrose Pipia, M.D. is board certified in Family Practice medicine. He has practiced in and around Whitestone for nearly 20 years, and also has an office in Astoria. He is a specialist in preventative medicine and management of chronic illnesses -- a strong believer that education can empower a patient to live a healthy life - physically and mentally.

Born in Italy, Dr. Pipia was raised here in Queens, and received his bachelor’s degree from Queens College. He subsequently returned to Italy to obtain a medical degree from The Universita di Palermo, Palermo. He did his residency training in internal medicine and family practice at Lutheran Medical Center in Brooklyn, N.Y. and Mountainside Hospital in Montclair, N.J., an affiliate of The University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey – Robert Wood Johnson School of Medicine.

Board certified in Internal Medicine, Domenick Acquista, M.D., joined the NYHQ medical staff immediately after completing his internship and residency with NYHQ and our affiliate Weill Cornell Medical College. A lifelong resident of Queens, he grew up in Bayside, then received his bachelor's degree from Wesleyan University in Middletown, Conn., and a medical degree from St. George's University School of Medicine, Grenada West Indies.

Dr. Acquista’s passion lies in helping patients maintain a full, active and healthy life. He also maintains a practice in Jamaica, Queens.

Katherine Heretis, M.D., is a fellowship-trained cardiologist with board certification in Internal Medicine. She joined the NYHQ medical staff after a fellowship in cardiology with NYHQ and affiliate Weill Cornell Medical College. Her training includes a research fellowship in cardiothoracic surgery at the NYU Langone School of Medicine, New York, N.Y. Her internal medicine internship and residency took place at Westchester Medical Center/New York Medical College, Valhalla, N.Y. and Englewood Hospital/Mt. Sinai School of Medicine, Englewood, N.J. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago, and her medical degree from the Ross University School of Medicine, Dominica, West Indies.

Dr. Heretis is a member of several hospital-driven initiatives focused on quality assurance. She is an active educator and researcher, and has authored multiple publications and presentations. In addition to Whitestone, she also practices in the hospital, and in our facility on Grand Avenue in Maspeth.

Hallways Brighten for NYHQ Pediatric Patients

Fri, 1 Feb 2013 00:00:00 EST

MEDIA ALERT/PHOTO OPPORTUNITY
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:

Jeff Jacomowitz (New York Hospital Queens)
(718) 670- 2515, jeff.jacomowitz@gmail.com

Allison Fleming (New York Hospital Queens)
(718) 670-2374, alf9034@nyp.org

April Guillerme (Starlight Children's Foundation NY*NJ*CT)
(212) 354-2878 ext 106, april@starlightnyc.org

Hallways Brighten for NYHQ Pediatric Patients

Starlight Children's Foundation and Splashes of Hope Unveil
“Children of Queens” Murals at NYHQ Theresa Lang Children’s Ambulatory Center

WHAT:
New murals will be unveiled throughout the hallways, patient rooms and waiting room of the New York Hospital Queens Theresa Lang Children’s Ambulatory Center. With funding from Starlight Children's Foundation, artists from Splashes of Hope painted the murals, “Children of Queens,” to showcase how the Queens community looks through the eyes of a child. The paintings help create a comfortable environment for young patients.

WHO:
Representatives from the hospital, Starlight Children’s Foundation and Splashes of Hope

WHEN:
Thursday, February 7, 2013
11:30 a.m.

WHERE:
New York Hospital Queens - Theresa Lang Children’s Ambulatory Center
56-45 Main Street, Flushing, NY 11355 (entrance on 141st Street)

ABOUT THE NYHQ THERESA LANG CHILDREN'S AMBULATORY CENTER
The NYHQ Theresa Lang Children's Ambulatory Center is a state-of-the-art facility that provides pediatric specialty care in surgery, cardiology, orthopaedics, gastroenterology, neurology, hematology, endocrinology, urology, nephrology, pulmonology, and care for high-risk newborns, as well as routine primary and follow-up care. The center is designed to make children and parents feel as comfortable as possible. This facility is staffed by pediatricians who provide medical care for children from birth through age 18. The center receives more than 25,000 patient visits each year.

About Starlight Children’s Foundation NY*NJ*CT
The Starlight Children’s Foundation makes a world of difference for seriously ill children and their families. Since 1985, the NY*NJ*CT chapter has been offering hope and a brighter future for seriously ill children. The goal of the Foundation is to help these children experience the simple joys of being a child. Each year, Starlight serves more than 275,000 critically, chronically and terminally ill children both in-hospital and out-patient throughout New York, New Jersey and Connecticut. Some of the most unique programs include Great Escapes, special outings for children and their families, STARBRIGHT World, a private online community for teens who are living with chronic diseases to connect, and Hospital Happenings, including themed parties, toys, and visits from entertainers. For more information on the Starlight Children’s Foundation of NY*NJ*CT, please log on to www.starlight-newyork.org.

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February is Heart Month — Five Tips to Be Heart Healthier

Fri, 1 Feb 2013 00:00:00 EST

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Allison Fleming (New York Hospital Queens)
(718) 670-2374, alf9034@nyp.org

Jeff Jacomowitz (New York Hospital Queens)
(718) 670- 2515, jeff.jacomowitz@gmail.com

Note to Editor: In recognition of American Heart Month, New York Hospital Queens promotes the importance of heart health by sharing some life saving tips with the community. If you have any questions or want to interview a cardiologist, please contact us.

February is Heart Month — Five Tips to Be Heart Healthier

February is American Heart Month. Heart disease remains the number one killer of men and women in the U.S. but many cases are preventable. There are a few simple steps that can be followed to reduce the risk.

The Heart Hospital of Queens at New York Hospital Queens has a few helpful tips for men and women on how to have a healthier heart.

1. Reduce stress. Find time to relax, even if it is only for 15 minutes. Take a bike ride around Flushing Meadows-Corona Park or visit the library and read a book.

2. Eat healthy. Total cholesterol levels of 240 mg/dL or more and LDL cholesterol levels of 160 mg/dL or more signal a high risk for heart disease, stroke and vascular disease. Foods like oatmeal (high in fiber), fish (high in omega-3 fatty acids) and nuts (high in polyunsaturated fatty acids) may help reduce cholesterol. These healthy foods can be found at local markets all over Queens.

3. Lose weight. Being overweight can increase the risk of heart disease. Physical activity like taking a walk around Queens Botanical Garden, for as little as 30 minutes a day, can help reduce risk.

4. Manage blood pressure. Blood pressure readings higher than 140/90 mmHg (millimeters of mercury) increase the risk for heart disease. Talk to a doctor about how to lower blood pressure. To find a doctor, visit www.nyhq.org/find-a-doctor-queens.

5. Quit smoking today. According to the American Heart Association, smoking is the most important preventable cause of premature death in the U.S. Smokers have a higher risk of developing many chronic disorders, which can lead to coronary heart disease, heart attack and stroke. For those who don’t smoke, be sure to avoid exposure to secondhand smoke.

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New York Hospital Queens Weight Management Program Offers Proven Healthy Eating Habits and Techniques to Lose Weight

Fri, 4 Jan 2013 00:00:00 EST

NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Allison Fleming (718) 670-2374
alf9034@nyp.org

Heather Carman (718) 670-2744
hec9033@nyp.org

New York Hospital Queens Weight Management Program Offers
Proven Healthy Eating Habits and Techniques to Lose Weight

Flushing, NY, January 4, 2013 — Statistics from the New York State Department of Health show that more than 56 percent of adults in Queens are overweight or obese. The Cardiac Health Center at New York Hospital Queens offers a weight management program, under the guidance of a team of professionals, to help participants learn healthy eating habits and weight loss techniques. Participants in this program have lost five pounds more than the national average of weight lost by those enrolled in similar programs.

“We created the program 13 years ago and it has helped more than 500 people achieve results. It has no gimmicks — we teach basic principles of healthy eating behaviors combined with exercise plans. We offer both aerobic and resistance training and make it fun for the participants so they can maintain these new healthy behaviors” said Donna Cheslik, R.N., director, Cardiac Health Center.

The next session of the Weight Management Program begins Monday, February 11. Orientation for the program is mandatory and will be held on Monday, January 14, at 6 p.m. at the Cardiac Health Center (174-03 Horace Harding Expressway in Fresh Meadows).

To register for the program, please call the Cardiac Health Center at New York Hospital Queens at (718) 670-1695. The cost is $397.27 and pre-payment is required.

New York Hospital Queens is a member of the NewYork-Presbyterian Healthcare System and an affiliate of the Weill Medical College of Cornell University. For more information visit www.nyhq.org.

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