Sixto Ferro Named to Board of Directors at Baptist Health Medical Group

Sixto FerroMIAMI — May 13, 2019 — Baptist Health South Florida is pleased to announce that Sixto Ferro has been named to the Board of Directors of Baptist Health Medical Group.

Mr. Ferro is the chief executive officer of Conchita Foods, a third-generation privately-held family business. Conchita Foods is one of the premier Hispanic food distributors in the state of Florida. Mr. Ferro has been actively involved in the growth of the company since the early 1990s. In addition to the Conchita brand, the company also represents other Hispanic product lines in the market, such as Bauducco wafers and panettones and Badia spices, among others.

“We proudly welcome Sixto Ferro to our board,” said Bernie Fernandez Jr., M.D., CEO of Baptist Health Medical Group. “His vast knowledge of business and his focus on our community will be very valuable as we work together to support Baptist Health’s mission.”

“Sixto Ferro brings a unique perspective to the group, and we are excited that he is joining us,” said Baptist Health Medical Group Board Chair, Herbert H. Greene, M.D.

During his career, Mr. Ferro has gained a wealth of experience managing the daily operations of the business, holding various roles within sales, operations and finance at Conchita Foods. He was key in implementing the direct store delivery facet of the business, expanding the customer base, opening new markets, developing new products and launching new brands.

“With patients as their focus, Baptist Health Medical Group has transformed care delivery and increased access to high-quality care across our area,” said Ferro. “I look forward to helping to continue this work for our patients and community.”

Mr. Ferro received a Bachelor of Science in accounting and finance from Boston College’s Carroll School of Management and a Masters in Taxation from Florida International University. He is a founding member of Commanderie de Bordeaux a Greater Miami, and a member of the Young President’s Organization and the Founder’s Society at Baptist Health South Florida.

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About Baptist Health Medical Group
Baptist Health Medical Group, a network of primary care doctors and specialists who provide high quality medical care to patients of all ages, is part of Baptist Health South Florida, the largest healthcare organization in the region, with 10 hospitals (Baptist Hospital, Baptist Children’s Hospital, Bethesda Hospital East, Bethesda Hospital West, Doctors Hospital, Fishermen’s Community Hospital, Homestead Hospital, Mariners Hospital, South Miami Hospital and West Kendall Baptist Hospital), more than 40 physician practices, 50 outpatient and urgent care facilities, Baptist Health Medical Group, Baptist Health Quality Network and internationally renowned centers of excellence spanning across Monroe, Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. A not-for-profit organization supported by philanthropy and committed to our faith-based charitable mission of medical excellence, Baptist Health has more than 19,500 employees and more than 3,000 affiliated physicians. Baptist Health South Florida has been recognized by Fortune as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and by Ethisphere as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net/newsroom and connect with us on Facebook at facebook.com/BaptistHealthSF and on Twitter and Instagram @BaptistHealthSF.




Baptist Health South Florida Named by Working Mother as One of the Best Companies for Multicultural Women

MIAMI, FL — May 7, 2019 — Baptist Health South Florida has been named one of the 2019 Best Companies for Multicultural Women by Working Mother magazine—an honor recognizing U.S. companies that create and use best practices in hiring, retaining, and promoting multicultural women. The 50 winners will be featured in the June/July issue of Working Mother and at workingmother.com.

The Working Mother Research Institute has conducted the initiative since 2003, tracking corporations’ progress in creating cultures that encourage multicultural women to join and rise through the ranks.

“Our organization places a high value on diversity, and we’re proud of our multicultural workforce that provides compassionate care to the diverse populations we serve,” said Adriene McCoy, Baptist Health’s corporate vice president and chief human resources officer. “It is an honor to be recognized for our efforts and successes in providing opportunities for our employees and leaders to constantly learn and grow in an inclusive environment.”

Baptist Health has also been on Working Mother magazine’s annual “100 Best Companies” list 26 times. The list celebrates companies that lead in the areas of female career advancement, paid parental leave, childcare assistance, benefits and flextime. Baptist Health was inducted in the Working Mother 100 Best Companies Quarter Century Club, which honors companies that have been on the list for 25 years or more.

“As the demographics in our country continue to move toward a growing minority population, companies recognize that they must create an inclusive workplace environment for multicultural women or else they will miss out on that portion of the talent,” said Subha V. Barry, President of Working Mother Media. “The fact that we expanded our list to 50 companies this year reinforces the notion that companies are taking the hiring, mentoring, sponsoring and promoting of multicultural women seriously, and are more confident in their progress on this front.”

“I am excited to see the growing number of multicultural women represented at the manager-level,” said Meredith Bodgas, Editor-in-Chief of Working Mother. “Our Best Companies continue to create policies and initiatives that are crucial to the success of multicultural women in the workforce and we hope that more organizations follow their example.”

Key findings of the 2019 Working Mother report include:

  • Increased multicultural women representation at manager-level and above: 15 percent in 2019 versus 13 percent in 2018 in management roles; 11 percent in 2019 versus 8 percent in 2018 in senior management roles; 6 percent in 2019 versus 3 percent in 2018 in corporate executive roles.
  • The most significant change since 2018 is a steady increase in Asian women in almost every category, especially in the most senior ranks.
  • Increases in CEOs holding leadership accountable for diversity results.

Best Companies Workforce Composition
The 2019 Best Companies for Multicultural Women employ about 2.3 million people at 38,000 worksites in every state across the following 13 industries: automotive, consumer products, financial services, hospitality, healthcare, insurance, manufacturing, nonprofit/not-for-profit, pharmaceuticals, professional services/management/accounting, retail and apparel, science/technology/engineering/aerospace/medical devices, and telecommunications.

Methodology
The Working Mother Best Companies for Multicultural Women application is available only to companies that have at least 500 U.S. employees. The winners were selected based on their answers to an extensive questionnaire covering representation; hiring; attrition and promotion rates; recruitment, retention and advancement programs; and company culture. The Working Mother Research Institute created a scoring algorithm based on the previous year’s benchmark results to determine the winners.

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About Baptist Health South Florida
Baptist Health South Florida is the largest healthcare organization in the region, with 10 hospitals (Baptist Hospital, Baptist Children’s Hospital, Bethesda Hospital East, Bethesda Hospital West, Doctors Hospital, Fishermen’s Community Hospital, Homestead Hospital, Mariners Hospital, South Miami Hospital and West Kendall Baptist Hospital), more than 40 physician practices, 50 outpatient and urgent care facilities, Baptist Health Medical Group, Baptist Health Quality Network and internationally renowned centers of excellence spanning across Monroe, Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. A not-for-profit organization supported by philanthropy and committed to our faith-based charitable mission of medical excellence, Baptist Health has more than 19,500 employees and more than 3,000 affiliated physicians. Baptist Health South Florida has been recognized by Fortune as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and by Ethisphere as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies. For more information, visit http://BaptistHealth.net/newsroom and connect with us on Facebook at facebook.com/BaptistHealthSF and on Twitter and Instagram @BaptistHealthSF.

About Working Mother Media
Working Mother Media (WMM), a division of Bonnier Corp., publishes Working Mother magazine and its companion website, workingmother.com. The Working Mother Research Institute, the National Association for Female Executives, Diversity Best Practices and Culture@Work are also units within WMM. WMM’s mission is to serve as a champion of culture change, and Working Mother magazine is the only national magazine for career-committed mothers. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Pinterest.




Fishermen’s Community Hospital Awarded Hospital Accreditation from the Joint Commission

MARATHON, FL – May 7, 2019 – Fishermen’s Community Hospital has earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for Hospital Accreditation by demonstrating continuous compliance with its performance standards. The Gold Seal of Approval® is a symbol of quality that reflects an organization’s commitment to providing safe and effective patient care.

Fishermen’s underwent a rigorous, unannounced onsite survey February 20-21. During the review, a team of Joint Commission expert surveyors evaluated compliance with hospital standards related to several areas, including emergency management, environment of care, infection prevention and control, leadership, and medication management. Surveyors also conducted onsite observations and interviews.

The Joint Commission has accredited hospitals for more than 60 years. More than 4,000 general, children’s, long-term acute, psychiatric, rehabilitation and specialty hospitals currently maintain accreditation from The Joint Commission, awarded for a three-year period. In addition, approximately 360 critical access hospitals maintain accreditation through a separate program.

“Fishermen’s is pleased to receive accreditation from The Joint Commission, the premier healthcare quality improvement and accrediting body in the nation,” added Rick Freeburg, CEO of Fishermen’s Community Hospital and Mariners Hospital in Tavernier. “Staff from across the organization continue to work together to develop and implement approaches that have the potential to improve care for the patients in our community.”

“Joint Commission accreditation provides hospitals with the processes needed to improve in a variety of areas from the enhancement of staff education to the improvement of daily business operations,” said Mark G. Pelletier, RN, MS, chief operating officer, Division of Accreditation and Certification Operations, The Joint Commission. “In addition, our accreditation helps hospitals enhance their risk management and risk reduction strategies. We commend Fishermen’s Community Hospital for its efforts to become a quality improvement organization.”

The Joint Commission’s hospital standards are developed in consultation with health care experts and providers, measurement experts and patients. The standards are informed by scientific literature and expert consensus to help hospitals measure, assess and improve performance.

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About Fishermen’s Community Hospital
Fishermen’s Community Hospital is part of Baptist Health South Florida, the largest healthcare organization in the region, with 10 hospitals (Baptist Hospital, Baptist Children’s Hospital, Bethesda Hospital East, Bethesda Hospital West, Doctors Hospital, Fishermen’s Community Hospital, Homestead Hospital, Mariners Hospital, South Miami Hospital and West Kendall Baptist Hospital), more than 40 physician practices, 50 outpatient and urgent care facilities, Baptist Health Medical Group, Baptist Health Quality Network and internationally renowned centers of excellence spanning across Monroe, Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. A not-for-profit organization supported by philanthropy and committed to our faith-based charitable mission of medical excellence, Baptist Health has more than 19,500 employees and more than 3,000 affiliated physicians. Baptist Health South Florida has been recognized by Fortune as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and by Ethisphere as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net/newsroom and connect with us on Facebook at facebook.com/BaptistHealthSF and on Twitter and Instagram @BaptistHealthSF.

About The Joint Commission
Founded in 1951, The Joint Commission seeks to continuously improve health care for the public, in collaboration with other stakeholders, by evaluating health care organizations and inspiring them to excel in providing safe and effective care of the highest quality and value. The Joint Commission accredits and certifies more than 21,000 health care organizations and programs in the United States. An independent, nonprofit organization, The Joint Commission is the nation’s oldest and largest standards-setting and accrediting body in health care. Learn more about The Joint Commission at www.jointcommission.org.




Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute Welcomes Cardiologist Socrates Kakoulides, M.D.

Dr. Kakoulides HeadshotMIAMI – April 22, 2019 – Cardiologist Socrates Kakoulides, M.D., has joined Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute’s Cardiology group, part of Baptist Health South Florida and the region’s largest and most comprehensive cardiovascular facility. Dr. Kakoulides is Board certified in internal medicine, cardiology, echocardiography and nuclear cardiology and specializes in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of complex cardiovascular disease and its risk factors.

Dr. Kakoulides earned his medical degree at Stony Brook University School of Medicine in Stony Brook, N.Y. He completed a residency in internal medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York, N.Y., and post-doctoral training in cardiology, advanced echocardiology, nuclear cardiology and cardiac CT imaging at Mount Sinai St. Luke’s Hospital.

Dr. Kakoulides has extensive teaching experience, training medical students and cardiology residents and fellows. Prior to joining Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute, he served as assistant professor of cardiology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital. He published articles in peer-reviewed medical journals and has given numerous invited presentations at cardiology symposiums. He is a member of the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association.

“We are pleased Dr. Kakoulides is bringing his exceptional talents to Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute and proud to welcome him to our team of experts,” said Barry T. Katzen, M.D., the Institute’s founder and medical director.

Jonathan Fialkow, M.D., Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute’s Cardiology Physician Practice Leader added, “Our patients will benefit from Dr. Kakoulides’ distinctive training and expertise in echocardiography and nuclear cardiology — advanced tests that are utilized in the diagnosis, management and follow-up of patients with heart disease.”

Dr. Kakoulides is affiliated with Baptist Hospital, Doctors Hospital and West Kendall Baptist Hospital. His main practice is located at 7400 SW 87 Avenue, Suite 100 in Miami.

About Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute
Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute is the largest and most comprehensive cardiovascular facility in the region. The team of multilingual, multidisciplinary specialists has pioneered the development of minimally invasive techniques used to treat aneurysms, blockages in veins and arteries and holes in the heart.

Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute is part of Baptist Health South Florida, the largest healthcare organization in the region, with ten hospitals (Baptist Hospital, Baptist Children’s Hospital, Bethesda Hospital East, Bethesda Hospital West, Doctors Hospital, Fishermen’s Community Hospital, Homestead Hospital, Mariners Hospital, South Miami Hospital and West Kendall Baptist Hospital), more than 40 physician practices, 50 outpatient and urgent care facilities, Baptist Health Medical Group, Baptist Health Quality Network and internationally renowned centers of excellence spanning across Monroe, Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. A not-for-profit organization supported by philanthropy and committed to our faith-based charitable mission of medical excellence, Baptist Health has approximately 18,500 employees and more than 3,000 affiliated physicians. Baptist Health South Florida has been recognized by Fortune as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and by Ethisphere as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net/newsroom and connect with us on Facebook at facebook.com/BaptistHealthSF and on Twitter and Instagram @BaptistHealthSF.

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Baptist Health South Florida and Aetna Commercial Partner in Palm Beach

Agreement to include Baptist Health hospitals and ancillary health facilities in Palm Beach County

 

MIAMI – April 19, 2019 – Baptist Health South Florida, the largest not-for-profit healthcare organization in the region, and Aetna, a CVS health business, announced they have signed an agreement that allows members enrolled in Aetna commercial health plans in-network access to Baptist Health facilities in Palm Beach County, Florida.

“We’re so pleased to expand our South Florida network to include Baptist Health South Florida facilities in Palm Beach,” said Richard Weiss, President of Aetna’s Florida Market. “This means our members in Palm Beach County and our prospective health plan members will have access to the Baptist Health brand of quality medical services.”

The agreement encompasses Baptist Health’s Palm Beach hospitals and ancillary health facilities including Bethesda Hospital East, Bethesda Hospital West, Bethesda Health Outpatient Imaging facilities, Bethesda Health Urgent Care, Baptist Health Surgery Center at Northpoint, Baptist Health Surgery Center at South Palm, and Baptist Health Endoscopy Center at Flagler. Once any applicable facility credentialing is complete, Aetna commercial health plan members will have access to these facilities for their healthcare needs.

“The expansion of our existing relationship with Aetna into Palm Beach represents both parties commitment to serving our communities. We are pleased to continue expanding our longstanding partnership with Aetna and to offer their members our services in a new county,” said Eric Shatanof, chief managed care officer and corporate vice president, Baptist Health.

About Baptist Health South Florida
Baptist Health South Florida is the largest healthcare organization in the region, with 10 hospitals (Baptist Hospital, Baptist Children’s Hospital, Bethesda Hospital East, Bethesda Hospital West, Doctors Hospital, Fishermen’s Community Hospital, Homestead Hospital, Mariners Hospital, South Miami Hospital and West Kendall Baptist Hospital), more than 40 physician practices, 50 outpatient and urgent care facilities, Baptist Health Medical Group, Baptist Health Quality Network and internationally renowned centers of excellence spanning across Monroe, Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. A not-for-profit organization supported by philanthropy and committed to our faith-based charitable mission of medical excellence, Baptist Health has more than 19,500 employees and more than 3,000 affiliated physicians. Baptist Health South Florida has been recognized by Fortune as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and by Ethisphere as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net/newsroom and connect with us on Facebook at facebook.com/BaptistHealthSF and on Twitter and Instagram.

About Aetna
Aetna, a CVS Health business, serves an estimated 39 million people with information and resources to help them make better informed decisions about their health care. Aetna offers a broad range of traditional, voluntary and consumer-directed health insurance products and related services, including medical, pharmacy, dental and behavioral health plans, and medical management capabilities, Medicaid health care management services, workers’ compensation administrative services and health information technology products and services. Aetna’s customers include employer groups, individuals, college students, part-time and hourly workers, health plans, health care providers, governmental units, government-sponsored plans, labor groups and expatriates. For more information, visit www.aetna.com and explore how Aetna is helping to build a healthier world. @AetnaNews

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West Kendall Baptist Hospital Nurse Jobic Butao Honored by IHI and Daisy Foundation

Butao, who will receive the individual award for Extraordinary Nurses, will be
recognized at the IHI Patient Safety Congress, May 15–17

Jobic Ray Butao_resizedBoston, MA — April 17, 2019 — The Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI) and the DAISY Foundation have announced Jobic Ray Butao, BSN, RN, CCRN, critical care nurse in the Intensive Care Unit at West Kendall Baptist Hospital, is the recipient of the 2019 IHI DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses. The awards will be conferred during the IHI Patient Safety Congress, May 15–17, 2019, in Houston, Texas.

The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses recognizes individual nurses and clinical teams throughout the year for their extraordinary, compassionate care. A signature program of the DAISY Foundation, more than 3,600 health care facilities and nursing schools across the US and in 21 other countries participate every year. Nearly 170 nurses and nurse-led teams, first honored within their own organizations between January 2017 and June 2018, were eligible for the IHI DAISY Awards, which place special emphasis on efforts to improve workforce and patient safety.

“We saw an incredibly diverse pool of nominees with strong dedication to their patients and to providing safe health care,” said Patricia McGaffigan, RN, MS, CPPS, Vice President, Safety Programs, IHI. “These honorees demonstrate nursing skill and expertise matched by compassionate care, collegiality with peers, and a commitment to advancing their profession.”

Butao has worked with his organization’s executives to initiate leadership rounds in the unit and has led efforts to reduce central-line associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) and catheter-associated urinary tract infections (CAUTI). The unit had no cases of CLABSI over an 11-month period and only one case of CAUTI. The practices put in place through Butao’s efforts are being implemented in other units of the hospital.

“Jobic is a dynamic peer leader, a skilled clinician, and a researcher,” said Sandra McLean, Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer, West Kendall Baptist Hospital. “He is also patient, kind and compassionate with his patients and their families — truly the picture of an extraordinary caregiver.”

“The DAISY Awards were created to express gratitude to nurses around the world for their compassion,” said Bonnie Barnes, FAAN, Co-Founder and CEO of the DAISY Foundation.” This year’s honorees exemplify the professionalism and humanity that are hallmarks of outstanding nursing care. We are proud to partner with IHI in recognizing the important contributions nurses make to improving care and safety.”

About West Kendall Baptist Hospital
West Kendall Baptist Hospital is part of Baptist Health South Florida, the largest healthcare organization in the region, with 10 hospitals (Baptist Hospital, Baptist Children’s Hospital, Bethesda Hospital East, Bethesda Hospital West, Doctors Hospital, Fishermen’s Community Hospital, Homestead Hospital, Mariners Hospital, South Miami Hospital and West Kendall Baptist Hospital), more than 40 physician practices, 50 outpatient and urgent care facilities, Baptist Health Medical Group, Baptist Health Quality Network and internationally renowned centers of excellence spanning across Monroe, Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. A not-for-profit organization supported by philanthropy and committed to our faith-based charitable mission of medical excellence, Baptist Health has more than 19,500 employees and more than 3,000 affiliated physicians. Baptist Health South Florida has been recognized by Fortune as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and by Ethisphere as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net/newsroom and connect with us on Facebook at facebook.com/BaptistHealthSF and on Twitter and Instagram @BaptistHealthSF.

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Baptist Health South Florida Named One of the 2019 Best Workplaces in Health Care and Biopharma by Great Place to Work® and FORTUNE

MIAMI – April 9, 2019 – Great Place to Work and FORTUNE have honored Baptist Health South Florida as one of the 2019 Best Workplaces in Health Care and Biopharma. Baptist Health took the #8 spot on the list.

The ranking considered feedback representing almost 730,000 employees working at Great Place to Work-Certified organizations in the health care and biopharma industry. Great Place to Work, a global people analytics and consulting firm, evaluated more than 60 elements of team members’ experience on the job. These included the extent to which employees trust leaders, the respect with which people are treated, the fairness of workplace decisions, and how much camaraderie there is among the team. Rankings are based on employees’ feedback and reward companies who best include all employees, no matter who they are or what they do for the organization.

“We’re proud to be recognized for creating and maintaining one of the best workplaces in our industry and in South Florida,” said Brian E. Keeley, president and CEO of Baptist Health South Florida. “Our employees, and what they add to and embrace about our culture, is the key to our success in delivering high-quality and compassionate care to the people in our community.”

The Best Workplaces in Health Care and Biopharma stand out for exceling in a competitive industry.

“Health Care and Biopharma companies are exposed to increasingly complex and rapidly changing environments,” said Michael Bush, CEO of Great Place to Work. “The Best Workplaces on this list stand out for cultivating agile workplaces with increasingly change-ready employees. People in these workplaces feel well-informed, encouraged to offer meaningful improvements, and are supported by leaders that are trustworthy, transparent and collaborative.”

The Best Workplaces in Health Care and Biopharma is one of a series of rankings by Great Place to Work and FORTUNE based on employee feedback from Great Place to Work-Certified™ organizations. Baptist Health also was ranked as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For by Great Place to Work and FORTUNE.

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About Baptist Health South Florida
Baptist Health South Florida is the largest healthcare organization in the region, with 10 hospitals (Baptist Hospital, Baptist Children’s Hospital, Bethesda Hospital East, Bethesda Hospital West, Doctors Hospital, Fishermen’s Community Hospital, Homestead Hospital, Mariners Hospital, South Miami Hospital and West Kendall Baptist Hospital), more than 40 physician practices, 50 outpatient and urgent care facilities, Baptist Health Medical Group, Baptist Health Quality Network and internationally renowned centers of excellence spanning across Monroe, Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. A not-for-profit organization supported by philanthropy and committed to our faith-based charitable mission of medical excellence, Baptist Health has more than 19,500 employees and more than 3,000 affiliated physicians. Baptist Health South Florida has been recognized by Fortune as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and by Ethisphere as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net/newsroom and connect with us on Facebook at facebook.com/BaptistHealthSF and on Twitter and Instagram @BaptistHealthSF.

About the Best Workplaces in Health Care and Biopharma
Great Place to Work based its ranking on a data-driven methodology applied to anonymous Trust Index™ survey responses representing almost 730,000 employees at Great Place to Work-Certified organizations. To learn more about Great Place to Work Certification and recognition on Best Workplaces lists published with FORTUNE, visit Greatplacetowork.com.

About Great Place to Work
Great Place to Work® is a global people analytics and consulting firm that helps companies produce better business results by focusing on workplace culture. Powered by more than 30 years of research, Emprising®, its SaaS-enabled survey and analytics platform, gives companies access to the assessments, data, and reporting needed to build a high-trust, high-performance culture.




Prominent Hand Surgeon Elizabeth Anne Ouellette Teams Up with Miami Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Institute and Baptist Health Medical Group

Dr. Ouellette HeadshotMIAMI – April 8, 2019 – At a time when studies show that 25 percent of all sports related injuries are to the hand or wrist, noted orthopedic hand surgeon Elizabeth Anne Ouellette, M.D., M.B.A., has joined Miami Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Institute and Baptist Health Medical Group as Chief of Hand Surgery, bringing 30 years of experience treating athletes and people of all ages not only from the Miami area but nationally and internationally.

Dr. Ouellette is a highly recognized and academically accomplished physician-surgeon. As a board certified orthopedic surgeon who performs hand surgeries of all complexities, she specializes in the treatment of wrist fracture, ligament tear, nerve injury, joint instability and small joint replacement.

“Dr. Elizabeth Anne Ouellette’s arrival with her distinguished talents as a hand surgeon ideally rounds out the services and specialties performed by our expert team of orthopedic and sports medicine physicians,” said John Uribe, M.D., Chief Medical Executive of Miami Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Institute.

Nelson Lazo, Chief Executive Officer of Doctors Hospital, noted, “Dr. Ouellette has been among the most, if not the most-recognized hand surgeon in our region, and the depth and breadth of her skills is remarkable.”

“We are incredibly fortunate to have Dr. Ouellette bring her preeminent expertise as a hand surgeon, innovator and physician leader to Baptist Health,” said Jack A. Ziffer, M.D., Ph.D, Executive Vice President and Chief Clinical Officer for the health system.

Dr. Ouellette is widely published in peer-review medical journals, an invited speaker at national and international academic symposia and an active member of numerous professional organizations. Her clinical research areas include wrist instability biomechanics, nerve injury repair, skin coverage and psychological intervention for upper extremity trauma patients.

She is affiliated with Baptist Hospital of Miami, Doctors Hospital, Homestead Hospital, South Miami Hospital and West Kendall Baptist Hospital. Her primary office is located at 3150 SW 38th Ave., Suite 600, in Coral Gables, Fla.

In addition to her surgical skills, Dr. Ouellette teaches and mentors medical students, residents and fellows in academic and clinical leadership roles. At present, she is chief of hand surgery and clinical professor at the Department of Orthopedics at Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine. She is professor emeritus at the Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation at the University of Miami School of Medicine and former director of upper extremity surgery at Mount Sinai Medical Center.

A graduate of the University of Texas Medical School in San Antonio, Dr. Ouellette completed a residency in orthopedics at the University of Washington School of Medicine in Seattle and a fellowship in orthopedic hand surgery at Jackson Memorial Hospital, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. She holds a master’s degree in business administration, earned at the University of Miami School of Business.

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About Miami Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Institute
Miami Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Institute offers comprehensive services for athletes and non-athletes – from physical and cognitive evaluation to rehabilitation and surgical reconstruction. Additionally, Miami Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Institute is the sports medicine provider for the Miami Dolphins, Miami HEAT, Florida Panthers, Florida International University athletics, Orange Bowl, Miami Open Tennis, Miami Marathon and Half Marathon and Miami-Dade County Public Schools.

Miami Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Institute is part of Baptist Health South Florida, the largest healthcare organization in the region, with 10 hospitals (Baptist Hospital, Baptist Children’s Hospital, Bethesda Hospital East, Bethesda Hospital West, Doctors Hospital, Fishermen’s Community Hospital, Homestead Hospital, Mariners Hospital, South Miami Hospital and West Kendall Baptist Hospital), more than 40 physician practices, 50 outpatient and urgent care facilities, Baptist Health Medical Group, Baptist Health Quality Network and internationally renowned centers of excellence spanning across Monroe, Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. A not-for-profit organization supported by philanthropy and committed to our faith-based charitable mission of medical excellence, Baptist Health has more than 19,500 employees and more than 3,000 affiliated physicians. Baptist Health South Florida has been recognized by Fortune as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and by Ethisphere as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net/newsroom and connect with us on Facebook at facebook.com/BaptistHealthSF and on Twitter and Instagram @BaptistHealthSF.

About Baptist Health Medical Group
Baptist Health Medical Group, a network of primary care doctors and specialists who provide high quality medical care to patients of all ages, is part of Baptist Health South Florida, the largest healthcare organization in the region, with 10 hospitals (Baptist Hospital, Baptist Children’s Hospital, Bethesda Hospital East, Bethesda Hospital West, Doctors Hospital, Fishermen’s Community Hospital, Homestead Hospital, Mariners Hospital, South Miami Hospital and West Kendall Baptist Hospital), more than 40 physician practices, 50 outpatient and urgent care facilities, Baptist Health Medical Group, Baptist Health Quality Network and internationally renowned centers of excellence spanning across Monroe, Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. A not-for-profit organization supported by philanthropy and committed to our faith-based charitable mission of medical excellence, Baptist Health has more than 19,500 employees and more than 3,000 affiliated physicians. Baptist Health South Florida has been recognized by Fortune as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and by Ethisphere as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net/newsroom and connect with us on Facebook at facebook.com/BaptistHealthSF and on Twitter and Instagram @BaptistHealthSF.




Baptist Health South Florida Celebrated the Grand Gala On March 16, Raising More Than $6.5 Million to Benefit the Organization’s Various Causes, Spanning the Florida Keys to Palm Beach

The Grand Gala was the organization’s largest social and fundraising event in its history, with MEDNAX Health Solutions Partner serving as title sponsor, and headline entertainment by Michael Feinstein, multi-platinum-selling, five-time Grammy-nominated singer and pianist

 

Michael Feinstein performing MIAMI, FL – March 21, 2019Baptist Health South Florida’s Grand Gala was an extraordinary success, raising more than $6.5 million. Attended by more than 2,000 guests, it was the largest social and fundraising event in the leading healthcare organization’s history, with proceeds uniquely benefiting the Baptist Health cause of each gala-goer’s choice – including Miami Cancer Institute, Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute, Miami Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Institute, or any of the healthcare organization’s 10 hospitals and clinical, community or educational programs from the Florida Keys to Palm Beach. 

Presented by title sponsor MEDNAX Health Solutions Partner, The Grand Gala took place on Saturday, March 16, in the newly renovated Miami Beach Convention Center Ballroom. The exquisite affair was attended by notable guests including co-chairs, Baptist Health President & CEO Brian E. Keeley and Suzanne Keeley, Ph.D., and Lani Kahn Drody, host committee chair.

Michael Feinstein, the multi-platinum-selling, five-time Grammy-nominated singer and pianist dubbed “The Ambassador of the Great American Songbook,” proudly served as The Grand Gala’s headline entertainer, and captivated guests with a 45-minute performance of iconic songs, including “New York, New York,” “Bye Bye Birdie,” and “Our Love is Here to Stay.

Among the attributes of The Grand Gala benefiting Baptist Health South Florida:

  • Guests had the unique opportunity to direct their funds to the Baptist Health cause of their choice.
  • They danced the night away in the newly refurbished Miami Beach Convention Center’s largest ballroom, with a dedicated entrance and concierge services. This also was the first grand event to take place at the Center this year following its multi-million-dollar renovation.
  • A live and silent auction featured rare experiences and professionally curated items. Live auction experiences were donated by American Airlines, Crystal Cruises, Domaine Souviou, Regent Seven Seas, British Airways, Tiffany & Co. and St. Regis.

Brian E. Keeley speakingDuring the Gala, the chairs made quick yet moving remarks, including Mr. Keeley, who said, “You all were given the opportunity to designate your dollars to the Baptist Health cause that means the most to you. Through this unique approach, your gifts will make an impact in the lives of patients throughout our service area, from Palm Beach to the Florida Keys.” Mr. Keeley noted that Baptist Health’s pursuit of providing charity care and community service totaled more than $300 million in 2018 alone.

“Philanthropy allows us to continue to provide the latest, most innovative technology, such as proton therapy, robotics, and new MRI radiation therapy, and to house them in attractive, patient-friendly surroundings. Simply stated, philanthropy allows us to transition from ‘good’ to ‘great,’ and can make the difference between excellent care and extraordinary care,” Mr. Keeley concluded.

Dr. Suzanne Keeley added, “There is so much to celebrate and be thankful for tonight.  The success of Baptist Health fundamentally says something – actually, it says everything – about the people, or family members, of what I fondly refer to as ‘Team Pineapple’:  The governing board members, the medical staff, the employees and the volunteers, all working together to provide the highest quality healthcare, delivered with compassion, to the patients of the communities we are privileged to serve.”

Mr. Keeley acknowledged Dr. Bill Banchs, Baptist Health Foundation’s CEO emeritus, who retired in January after leading the foundation for five years, during which time philanthropic funds more than doubled, surpassing $30 million last year alone. Mr. Keeley also mentioned the newly-appointed CEO of the Foundation, Alexandra Villoch, President and Publisher of the Miami Herald Media Company. “She’s a proven business executive and community leader with a long-time involvement in South Florida philanthropy. As people know, Alex is a high-energy executive and is prepared to take our Foundation to the next level,” said Mr. Keeley.

Generous sponsors of The Grand Gala include Title Sponsor MEDNAX Health Solutions Partner; Diamond Sponsors Envision Physician Services, FPL and KIDZ Medical Services; Gold Sponsors Bank of America, CC Homes, Humana, Leon Medical Centers, Navigant, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings and Watsco; the Official Sports Team Partner, The Miami HEAT; Honorary Chairs the Carricarte Family, Gonzalez Gorrin Family, Susan Kahn, Michele and Howard Kessler, the Korn Rico-Toro Family and The John and Margaret A. Krupa Foundation; Bronze Sponsors American Airlines, Bacardi, Cerner, The Collection, Conviva Care Solutions, Emergent Physicians of South Florida, Florida National University and Insightec.

For more information, please visit https://baptisthealthgrandgala.org/.  

For more downloadable photos, click here.

About Baptist Health South Florida
Baptist Health South Florida is the largest healthcare organization in the region, with 10 hospitals (Baptist Hospital, Baptist Children’s Hospital, Bethesda Hospital East, Bethesda Hospital West, Doctors Hospital, Fishermen’s Community Hospital, Homestead Hospital, Mariners Hospital, South Miami Hospital and West Kendall Baptist Hospital), more than 40 physician practices, 50 outpatient and urgent care facilities, Baptist Health Medical Group, Baptist Health Quality Network and internationally renowned centers of excellence spanning across Monroe, Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties. A not-for-profit organization supported by philanthropy and committed to our faith-based charitable mission of medical excellence, Baptist Health has more than 19,500 employees and more than 3,000 affiliated physicians. Baptist Health South Florida has been recognized by Fortune as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and by Ethisphere as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies.

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Miami Cancer Institute Opens Multidisciplinary Skin Cancer Clinic

Clinic to include the only 3D whole body photo-imaging technology in Florida

MIAMI, FL ― March 25, 2019 ― Today, Miami Cancer Institute announced the opening of its Multidisciplinary Skin Cancer Clinic, including the regions’ first (1 of only 12 in the world), 3D whole body photo-imaging system designed to improve the accuracy of diagnosing melanoma and other skin cancers.

The new technology, also known as the Vectra, uses 92 cameras that take simultaneous photos of the body in one second, and then creates a 3D view of the surface of the skin. This allows the dermatologist to potentially evaluate every suspicious lesion on the skin, both by physical exam and with the use of other sophisticated technology available in the clinic.

“This photographic process is groundbreaking. It quickly gives us a detailed look at a patient’s entire skin surface,” said Jill Waibel, M.D., Miami Cancer Institute dermatologist. “It also allows us to map out and track any changes in lesions or moles. When detecting skin cancer, the sooner we can identify a problem, the better the outcome for the patient.”

The Multidisciplinary Skin Cancer Clinic at Miami Cancer Institute will focus on early detection and treatment of melanoma, in addition to treating patients with all types of skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, Merkel Cell tumors and other rare tumors of the skin. The program’s team of experts includes dermatologists, surgical and medical oncologists, radiation oncologists and plastic and reconstructive surgeons.

“Skin cancer is a significant concern in Florida, as well as throughout the Caribbean and Latin America,” said Leonard Kalman, M.D., Miami Cancer Institute executive deputy director and chief medical officer. “By opening the Multidisciplinary Skin Cancer Clinic, we have all of the specialists necessary to provide comprehensive skin cancer care to patients in one convenient location.”

According to the Florida Cancer Data System, nearly one in 10 Floridians have some form of skin cancer. Studies show that one person dies of melanoma every hour, and rates of non-melanoma skin cancer have increased by 77 percent over the past 10 years. On average, it takes 12 months after noticing a suspicious mark before getting it looked at by an expert. The single most critical factor for improving chances of survival for skin cancer is early detection.

Patients need a referral from a dermatologist or oncologist to be seen at the Miami Cancer Institute’s Multi-Disciplinary Skin Cancer Clinic. For more information about these specialized services, patients may call 786-596-2000 in Miami-Dade County or 866-596-2330 toll-free. International patients should ask their physician to contact Baptist International Services at 786-596-2372 or [email protected].

 

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About Miami Cancer Institute
Miami Cancer Institute, part of Baptist Health South Florida, is a next-generation cancer treatment destination known for its leading clinical care and research, compassionate patient experience and state-of-the-art technology – including the first proton therapy center in South Florida, Latin America and the Caribbean, and the only radiation oncology program in the world with each of the latest radiation therapies in one place. The Institute offers an impressive roster of established community oncologists and renowned cancer experts, clinical researchers and genomic scientists recruited from the nation’s top cancer centers. As Florida’s only member of the Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Cancer Alliance, Miami Cancer Institute is part of a deep and functional collaboration that affords patients access to innovative treatments right here at home and ensures that the standards of care developed by our multidisciplinary disease management teams match those at MSK. Heralded nationally as one of the “hybrid” cancer centers of the future, Miami Cancer Institute combines high-quality community-based cancer care with the best of an academic cancer center, including innovative clinical trials tied to research and genomics and disease-specific surgeons, medical oncologists and radiation oncologists who are experts in their fields. For more information, visit MiamiCancerInstitute.com.