The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (ACS NSQIP®) has recognized West Kendall Baptist Hospital as one of 60 ACS NSQIP participating hospitals that have achieved meritorious outcomes for surgical patient care. As a participant in ACS NSQIP, West Kendall Baptist Hospital is required to track the outcomes of inpatient and outpatient surgical procedures and collect data that directs patient safety and the quality of surgical care improvements.

The ACS NSQIP recognition program commends a select group of hospitals for achieving a composite meritorious outcome related to patient management in eight clinical areas: mortality, unplanned intubation, ventilator > 48 hours, renal failure, cardiac incidents (cardiac arrest and myocardial infarction); respiratory (pneumonia); SSI (surgical site infections-superficial and deep incisional and organ-space SSIs); or urinary tract infection. The 60 hospitals commended achieved the distinction based on their outstanding composite quality score across the eight areas listed above. Risk-adjusted data from the July 2016 ACS NSQIP Semiannual Report, which presents data from the 2015 calendar year, were used to determine which hospitals demonstrated meritorious outcomes.

ACS NSQIP is the only nationally validated quality improvement program that measures and enhances the care of surgical patients. This program measures the actual surgical results 30 days postoperatively as well as risk adjusts patient characteristics to compensate for differences among patient populations and acuity levels. The goal of ACS NSQIP is to reduce surgical morbidity (infection or illness related to a surgical procedure) and surgical mortality (death related to a surgical procedure) and to provide a firm foundation for surgeons to apply what is known as the “best scientific evidence” to the practice of surgery. Furthermore, when adverse effects from surgical procedures are reduced and/or eliminated, a reduction in health care costs follows. ACS NSQIP is a major program of the American College of Surgeons and is currently used in over 770 adult and pediatric hospitals.

The American College of Surgeons is a scientific and educational organization of surgeons that was founded in 1913 to raise the standards of surgical practice and to improve the care of the surgical patient. The College is dedicated to the ethical and competent practice of surgery. Its achievements have significantly influenced the course of scientific surgery in America and have established it as an important advocate for all surgical patients. The College has more than 78,000 members and it is the largest organization of surgeons in the world.

About West Kendall Baptist Hospital
West Kendall Baptist Hospital is part of Baptist Health South Florida, the largest healthcare organization in the region, with seven hospitals (Baptist Hospital, Baptist Children’s Hospital, Doctors Hospital, Homestead Hospital, Mariners Hospital, South Miami Hospital and West Kendall Baptist Hospital), nearly 50 outpatient and urgent care facilities, Baptist Health Medical Group, Baptist Health Quality Network and internationally renowned centers of excellence. The not-for-profit, faith-based Baptist Health has approximately 16,000 employees and 2,300 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 and connect with us on Facebook at facebook.com/BaptistHealthSF and on Twitter and Instagram @BaptistHealthSF.

MIAMI, FL – November 10, 2016 — Miami Cancer Institute at Baptist Health South Florida has expanded two of its signature cancer care departments, with the additions of psychosomatic psychiatrist Geetha Nampiaparampil, M.D. and psychologist Regina Melchor, Psy.D to its Cancer Patient Support Center. These physicians will focus on the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of disorders that contribute to a cancer patient’s emotional distress. The two will work closely with M. Beatriz Currier, M.D., Miami Cancer Institute’s director of Cancer Patient Support Center, to enhance quality of life and health outcomes following a cancer diagnosis.

In addition, Miami Cancer Institute’s Symptom Management & Palliative Medicine Service continues to expand with the added expertise of Suleyki Medina, M.D., who joins Mariana Khawand-Azouli, M.D, as one of the department’s two initial attending physicians.

“Having representatives of many different disciplines involved in patient care is an important part of the Institute’s mission to treat the whole individual, not just the disease,” said Michael J. Zinner, M.D., founding CEO and executive medical director of Miami Cancer Institute. “These physicians bring highly specialized skills and experience that will enable Miami Cancer Institute to deliver personalized, patient- and family-centered care from diagnosis through survivorship.”

Dr. Nampiaparampil is Board-certified in psychiatry and psychosomatic medicine. She received her medical degree from Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago, and completed her psychiatry residency at Saint Vincent’s Hospital-Manhattan/New York Medical College and St. Luke’s Roosevelt Hospital/Columbia College of Physicians and Surgeons, both in New York. She also completed a psychosomatic medicine fellowship at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center/New York Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center. She has conducted research studies related to her specialty and is published in numerous peer-reviewed journals and text books. Prior to joining Miami Cancer Institute, Dr. Nampiaparampil was an assistant professor of psychiatry at Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta, an attending psychiatrist at Maimonides Medical Center in Brooklyn, and most recently an attending psychiatrist at JFK Medical Center in Palm Beach, Florida.

Regina Melchor, Psy.D., earned a Doctor of Psychology degree in clinical psychology from Albizu University in Miami, graduating summa cum laude. She completed a psychology residency at the Institute for Child and Family Health, also in Miami, and a fellowship in psychosomatic medicine and psycho-oncology at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center/New York Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center. She is an adjunct faculty member in the psychology departments at Albizu University and Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, and has held teaching roles at several higher education institutions. She has published numerous articles in medical journals and frequently lectures on her specialty to peers and community members. She is also affiliated with several professional associations, including the American Psychosocial Oncology Society and the International Psychosocial Oncology Society.

Dr. Medina is Board-certified in internal medicine and geriatrics and is one of two initial attending physicians of Miami Cancer Institute’s Symptom Management & Palliative Medicine service. She received her medical degree from St. George’s University School of Medicine in Grenada, West Indies, and completed a residency in internal medicine at NYU Lutheran Medical Center in Brooklyn, where she was honored with the Department of Neurology and Rehabilitation Award for Excellence. She also completed two fellowships — in geriatrics and hospice and palliative care — at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine/ Jackson Memorial Hospital. Dr. Medina is a member of the American College of Physicians, American Geriatrics Society and American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine. Dr. Medina and Dr. Khawand-Azouli will both report directly to Leonard Kalman, M.D., Miami Cancer Institute’s deputy director and chief medical officer.

Miami Cancer Institute will begin to move into its new, $430 million state-of-the-art facility on the Baptist Hospital of Miami campus early next year. Opening day for patient care is planned for January 16, 2017.

About Miami Cancer Institute
Baptist Health South Florida is developing Miami Cancer Institute into a destination cancer center known for its leading clinical care, exceptional patient experience, advanced clinical research and state-of-the-art technology – including the first proton therapy center in South Florida, Latin America and the Caribbean. To accelerate its mission of hope, caring and innovation, Miami Cancer Institute has announced plans to join the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Alliance, a dynamic partnership that will ultimately enable cancer patients to access potential breakthrough therapies in South Florida. For more information, visit MiamiCancerInstitute.com.

Miami Cancer Institute is part of Baptist Health South Florida, the largest healthcare organization in the region, with seven hospitals (Baptist Hospital, Baptist Children’s Hospital, Doctors Hospital, Homestead Hospital, Mariners Hospital, South Miami Hospital and West Kendall Baptist Hospital), nearly 50 outpatient and urgent care facilities, Baptist Health Medical Group, Baptist Health Quality Network and internationally renowned centers of excellence. The not-for-profit, faith-based Baptist Health has approximately 16,000 employees and 2,300 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 and connect with us on Facebook at facebook.com/BaptistHealthSF and on Twitter and Instagram @BaptistHealthSF.

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MIAMI, FL – October 14, 2016 – West Kendall Baptist Hospital was named one of nine winners in the GE HealthyCities Leadership Academy Open Innovation Challenge. This winning project aims to enhance the role of the Healthy Hub, a free, one-stop screening and referral-to-care kiosk.

The Healthy Hub project is a collaboration between West Kendall Baptist Hospital, Healthy West Kendall and LifeWallet, a corporate partner. The Hub uses the American Heart Association’s Life’s Simple 7 assessment to generate a health score using biometric information gathered by a nurse. Currently, many of the Hub visitors are at risk for diabetes. This project intervenes with those pre-diabetic patients to improve both their clinical and personal health outcomes.

“We are proud to be named a winner in the GE HealthyCities Leadership Academy Open Innovation Challenge and we are excited that this opportunity will further support our commitment to enhancing the health and quality of life of our community,” said Javier Hernandez Lichtl, chief executive officer for West Kendall Baptist Hospital. This collaboration with LifeWallet, and the other key community partners on the Healthy West Kendall Coalition, will continue to support our collective vision to create the Healthiest Community in Florida,” added Hernandez Lichtl.

West Kendall Baptist Hospital will receive an initial award of $25,000 in prize money to help develop population health improvements through partnerships with public and private entities, and will be eligible for a final prize award of $250,000 after a year of collaborative learning and support.

“We are proud to be part of this innovative collaboration where clinical excellence and innovative technology come together to transform the way we can provide healthcare,” said Edwin Rivera, LifeWallet’s Healthcare Evangelist. “Identifying at-risk populations in our community and providing access to early intervention is part of our mission. Therefore, we are proud to be part of an initiative that promotes population health through risk assessment with the use of our products.”

Additional Healthy West Kendall Coalition partners on the Miami Team include the Florida Department of Health in Miami-Dade, Florida International University, Health Foundation of South Florida and Health Council of South Florida.
“It is a great honor to have the Healthy Hub recognized by an esteemed panel of judges and GE. This innovative model of preventative care has demonstrated a positive impact in our community. With GE’s support, we can do a more intensive intervention for people whose blood sugar is above normal range and help reverse the trend and prevent the development of diabetes,” said Theodore Feldman, MD., Medical Director of the Healthy Hub.

A part of GE’s healthymagination commitment, the HealthyCities Leadership Academy is a new program to mentor and support leaders in their communities as they develop and support new strategies to tackle population health challenges. The goal of the initiative is for community and business leaders to work together to help the cities, towns and communities where they live and work to address significant health challenges.

Winning communities were determined after a thorough evaluation of all eligible entries based on their ability to demonstrate a clear potential to improve the health of all socioeconomic strata of the targeted community. Selections were determined by a panel of distinguished judges who have expertise in the fields of population health, public health, and healthcare.

As part of the program, the nine winning communities will participate in a year-long learning collaborative that formally kicked off with a two-day, in-person workshop at GE’s Global Leadership Institute in Crotonville, New York, on October 11-12, 2016. Activities that follow include in-person and virtual training sessions by experts in the field of health and the broader determinants of population health, site visits by many of these experts and GE to provide peer support and mentorship around the winning community program being implemented, and other opportunities to create connections, partnerships and innovations that incubate and scale their ideas. At the conclusion of the program in 2017, the most successful communities will compete for additional funds from a total pool of $250,000.

For more information and to read about the challenge process, visit www.healthycitiesleadership.com.

About West Kendall Baptist Hospital
West Kendall Baptist Hospital is part of Baptist Health South Florida, the largest healthcare organization in the region, with seven hospitals (Baptist Hospital, Baptist Children’s Hospital, Doctors Hospital, Homestead Hospital, Mariners Hospital, South Miami Hospital and West Kendall Baptist Hospital), nearly 50 outpatient and urgent care facilities, Baptist Health Medical Group, Baptist Health Quality Network and internationally renowned centers of excellence. The not-for-profit, faith-based Baptist Health has approximately 16,000 employees and 2,300 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 and connect with us on Facebook at facebook.com/BaptistHealthSF and on Twitter and Instagram @BaptistHealthSF.

About GE
GE (NYSE:GE) is the world’s Digital Industrial Company, transforming industry with software-defined machines and solutions that are connected, responsive and predictive. GE is organized around a global exchange of knowledge, the “GE Store,” through which each business shares and accesses the same technology, markets, structure and intellect. Each invention further fuels innovation and application across our industrial sectors. With people, services, technology and scale, GE delivers better outcomes for customers by speaking the language of industry. www.ge.com

About GE’s healthymagination commitment
GE’s healthymagination commitment is about better health for more people. We continuously develop and invest in innovations that deliver high-quality, more affordable healthcare to more people around the world. For more information about our healthymagination commitment, visit www.gesustainability.com.

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MIAMI, FL – For the fourth consecutive year, West Kendall Baptist Hospital and Zoo Miami will host a 5K race at Zoo Miami on October 2, 2016. The Felix Sabates Chevrolet Cadillac ZooRun5K is for folks of every speed – from cheetah to tortoise. The 3.1-mile timed race is walker-friendly and will take place around the entire zoo.

Additionally, Kidz Medical Services will host a ZooKidsDash for kids ages 2 – 9, and will include a range of distances from 100 to 525 meters and opportunities to interact with Gigi, Kaz and Pio – the popular Zoo Squad mascots. Participants are also asked to dress or accessorize like their favorite animal to win prizes at the costume contest.

“We are delighted to be working with our partners at West Kendall Baptist Hospital again to bring back our very own 5K! With over 4,000 race participants last year, we know that children and families want to be at Zoo Miami to experience this amazing park. Come take a walk (or run!) on the wild side” said, Ron Magill, Zoo Miami Communications and Media Relations Director.
“West Kendall Baptist Hospital, through our Healthy West Kendall initiative, looks to inspire our community to live healthier lives,” said, Michelle Mejia, AVP at West Kendall Baptist Hospital. “We are proud to partner with Zoo Miami to host a 5K race, as this event is an extension of our multi-year partnership called Healthy Zoo, Healthy You. We are able to lead by example through programs like these, where we can exercise, spend time outdoors, and enjoy the wonderful zoo with our friends and family.”

The first 4,000 5K and 1,000 ZooKidsDash registrants will receive free admission to Zoo Miami, a premium t-shirt, themed finisher medal, and entrance to the Finish Festival. Race registrants can also purchase Zoo Miami tickets for friends and family with a 50 percent discount on race day. To register, visit ZooMiami.org/Run.

About West Kendall Baptist Hospital
West Kendall Baptist Hospital is part of Baptist Health South Florida, the largest healthcare organization in the region, with seven hospitals (Baptist Hospital, Baptist Children’s Hospital, Doctors Hospital, Homestead Hospital, Mariners Hospital, South Miami Hospital and West Kendall Baptist Hospital), nearly 50 outpatient and urgent care facilities, Baptist Health Medical Group, Baptist Health Quality Network and internationally renowned centers of excellence. The not-for-profit, faith-based Baptist Health has approximately 16,000 employees and 2,300 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 and connect with us on Facebook at facebook.com/BaptistHealthSF and on Twitter and Instagram @BaptistHealthSF.

About Zoo Miami Foundation
The Zoo Miami Foundation, formerly The Zoological Society of Florida, founded in 1956, is the non-profit support organization for Zoo Miami. Today it is one of the largest membership organizations in South Florida, with more than 60,000 members. Its activities and programs include fundraising, marketing, volunteer services, educational programs, special events and member programming. Its mission is to encourage an appreciation for the world’s wildlife and to help conserve it for future generations. For more information, please visit ZooMiami.org under Support Zoo Miami or call (305) 255-5551.

About Zoo Miami
Zoo Miami is located at 12400 SW 152 Street, Miami, FL 33177. General zoo admission is $19.95 per adult and $15.95 per child (3-12), plus tax. Children under two and zoo members enter free; parking is free. On weekends and holidays, Zoo Miami’s hours are 9:30 am – 5:30 pm; ticket booths close at 4 pm. On weekdays, Zoo Miami’s hours are 10 am – 5 pm; ticket booths close at 3:30 pm. For more information, please visit www.zoomiami.org or call (305) 251-0400.

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MIAMI, FL – July 12, 2016 – West Kendall Baptist Hospital appoints new South Florida community leaders to its Board of Directors.

Dr. Anthony Alonso has practiced in the Miami area for eight years. In 2007, he started Endodontix Dental Group, P.A., a dental practice limited to Endodontics in Coral Gables. He received a Bachelors of Science in Biology from Duke University. He also graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Doctor of Medical Dentistry from Tufts University Schools of Dental Medicine. Dr. Alonso is co-chairman of Endodontics for Community Smiles, which provides dental care to the underserved in Miami-Dade County. He is a marathon runner and is an active member of several organizations, including the American Association of Endodontists, the Florida Association of Endodontists and the American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology.

“We’re grateful that, Dr. Anthony Alonso, our Founding Chairman’s son is able to join our board, continuing the great legacy that his father started at our hospital,” said Javier Hernandez Lichtl, chief executive officer at West Kendall Baptist Hospital.

Robert Namoff currently serves as chairman of the board of Allied Universal Corp., where he has worked since 1970. Under Mr. Namoff’s leadership, Allied has grown to become the largest manufacturer and distributor of municipal water and wastewater treatment chemicals (primarily bleach and chlorine) in the southeastern United States. Mr. Namoff is involved in national and local charities such as the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation, the Alzheimer’s Association, The Hibiscus Children’s Center in Vero Beach and Children’s Resource Center in Miami. Mr. Namoff was a member of the first graduating class of Florida International University, where he obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing in 1974.

“West Kendall Baptist Hospital is very fortunate to attract a successful executive that will influence our Board of Directors and leaders,” said Hernandez Lichtl.

Richard J. Roy founded Lucror Capital Advisors, L.P. (“Lucror Capital) in 2013. Lucror Capital is a privately held investment management firm that specializes in publicly traded equities of energy and energy infrastructure companies. Mr. Roy’s primary responsibility is defining and implementing the investment strategy of the firm. Mr. Roy has been in the financial services industry since 1995, having most recently served as a Director in Citigroup’s Investment Banking Division. Mr. Roy received a B.S. in Finance and Marketing from the McIntire School of Commerce at the University of Virginia, where he was a 4-year letterman and a Co-Captain of the Men’s Tennis Team and an M.B.A. from Columbia Business School.

“We’re blessed to have Mr. Roy who brings tremendous financial knowledge and international connections to our board of directors and hospital,” said Hernandez Lichtl.

Luis (Wicho) Hernandez’s passion for helping people reach their full potential, his deep knowledge of financial strategies, and compassion for clients has led to the explosive growth in his financial service agency. Wicho is the Managing Partner of LINQ Financial Group, headquartered in Coral Gables, with offices in Weston, Ft. Lauderdale, Stuart, and West Kendall, Florida. Wicho is actively involved and can be counted on to take an instrumental leadership role in many public service and political initiatives and community based organizations. Baseball has been Wicho’s lifelong passion. After playing at the University of Miami, he played for the Mets’ minor league team. He now coaches and announces ball games whenever he can fit it into his schedule.

“We’re thrilled to attract local talent that is so community focused to our hospital and our board,” said Hernandez Lichtl.

About West Kendall Baptist Hospital
West Kendall Baptist Hospital is part of Baptist Health South Florida, the largest healthcare organization in the region, with seven hospitals (Baptist Hospital, Baptist Children’s Hospital, Doctors Hospital, Homestead Hospital, Mariners Hospital, South Miami Hospital and West Kendall Baptist Hospital), nearly 50 outpatient and urgent care facilities, Baptist Health Medical Group, Baptist Health Quality Network and internationally renowned centers of excellence. The not-for-profit, faith-based Baptist Health has approximately 16,000 employees and 2,300 affiliated physicians. Baptist Health South Florida has been recognized as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America and as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies. For more information, visit BaptistHealth.net and connect with us on Facebook at facebook.com/BaptistHealthSF and on Twitter and Instagram @BaptistHealthSF.

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Contact: Georgi Pipkin, 786-596-3309

West Kendall Baptist Hospital and the Florida International University Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine celebrated the inaugural residents of the Family Medicine program and introduced the 2016-2017 incoming cohort. The graduation represents the fulfillment of both organizations’ long standing commitment to develop home grown clinicians to address the shortage of primary care physicians in South Florida.

With four residents per year, the residency program offers an individualized approach – preparing clinically skilled physicians who work effectively as part of larger healthcare systems. Residents receive training in quality assessment and improvement, research and public policy, while developing leadership and team-building skills through collaboration and community engagement. As the first residency program at West Kendall Baptist Hospital, the program is uniquely positioned to provide a rich and personalized residency learning experience while training and retaining physicians to serve the South Florida community.

(From left to right): Aniel Navarro Marin, MD, Graduating Resident Michelle DeFreitas, MD, Graduating Resident David Brown, MD, Founding Program Director Agueda Hernandez, MD, Program Director Wendy Marquina, MD, Graduating Resident Christopher DaFonseca, MD.

Zoo Miami again will host a 5K race it can call its own! Zoo Miami Foundation (formerly Zoological Society of Florida) and West Kendall Baptist Hospital have partnered to offer two fun, wild events on November 14, 2015.

Unlike other 5Ks and walks held at the zoo, this event will offer benefits that only the team at the zoo can offer, running through the Zoo Miami exhibit path and bringing back memories of the renowned Jungle Jog run that started 31 years ago and ended in 2002.

The ZooRun5K presented by Gilly Vending, which sold out the last two years, is for folks of every speed – from cheetah to tortoise – so no matter your pace, come out for fun and exercise. This 3.1 mile timed race is walker-friendly and will take place around the entire zoo. The ZooKidsDash presented by Kidz Medical Services is a race for kids ages 2 – 9. This race will include a range of distances from 100 to 525 meters and opportunities to interact with Gigi, Kaz and Pio – the popular Zoo Squad mascots. Participants are also being asked to dress or accessorize like their favorite animal to win prizes at the costume contest.

“We are delighted to be working with our partners at West Kendall Baptist Hospital again to bring back our very own 5K! With over 4,000 race participants last year, we know that children and families want to be at Zoo Miami to experience this amazing park. Come take a walk (or run!) on the wild side!” said Ron Magill, Zoo Miami Communications and Media Relations Director.

“West Kendall Baptist Hospital is thrilled to partner with Zoo Miami in hosting this 5K race. This event is an extension of our multi-year partnership focused on the health of our environment and our community. With the Healthy Zoo, Healthy You initiative, part of the Healthy West Kendall coalition, we hope to inspire our community to make healthy living a priority,” said Michelle Mejia, AVP, at West Kendall Baptist Hospital. “What better way than to get outdoors and run with the animals.” The ZooRun5K presented by Gilly Vending pre-sale price of $30 is valid today through October 30 and increases to $35 from October 31 through November 13. Registration fees will increase to $45 on race day. The ZooKidsDash presented by Kidz Medical Services pre-sale price of $10 is valid today through October 30 and increases to $15 from October 31 to November 13. Race day fee for kids ages 2-9 is $20. An additional processing fee will be added per transaction. The first 4,000 5K and 1,000 Kids Dash registrants will receive free admission to Zoo Miami, a premium t-shirt, themed finisher medal, post race food and a race unlike any in South Florida. As if all of this weren’t enough, race registrants can purchase Zoo Miami tickets for friends and family with a 50% discount on race day!

About West Kendall Baptist Hospital

West Kendall Baptist Hospital provides patient- and family-centered care to one of South Florida’s most vibrant and fast-growing communities. Recognized as a Magnet® organization for its rigorous standards of nursing excellence, the hospital also earned LEED Gold certification for its sustainable construction and operating practices. Its ACGME-accredited family medicine residency program operates in partnership with Florida International University’s Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine. West Kendall Baptist Hospital is part of the not-for-profit, faith-based Baptist Health South Florida family. Visit http://WestKendallBaptistHospital.com.

About Zoo Miami Foundation

The Zoo Miami Foundation, formerly The Zoological Society of Florida, founded in 1956, is the non-profit support organization for Zoo Miami. Today it is one of the largest membership organizations in South Florida, with more than 60,000 members. Its activities and programs include fundraising, marketing, volunteer services, educational programs, special events and member programming. Its mission is to encourage an appreciation for the world’s wildlife and to help conserve it for future generations. For more information, please visit www.zoomiami.org under Support Zoo Miami or call (305) 255-5551.

About Zoo Miami

Zoo Miami is located at 12400 SW 152 Street, Miami, FL 33177. General zoo admission is $19.95 per adult and $15.95 per child (3-12), plus tax. Children under two and zoo members enter free; parking is free. On weekends and holidays, Zoo Miami’s hours are 9:30 am – 5:30 pm; ticket booths close at 4 pm. On weekdays, Zoo Miami’s hours are 10 am – 5 pm; ticket booths close at 3:30 pm. For more information, please visit www.zoomiami.org or call (305) 251-0400.

Contacts: Vanessa Ramos, 305-793-0241 and Cindy Castelblanco, 305-328-8811

Five Baptist Health Hospitals Receive “A” Grades on Leapfrog Group’s Most Recent Hospital Safety Score; Three Baptist Health Hospitals Receive “Straight A’s” for Consistent Performance

All eligible hospitals operated by Baptist Health South Florida have been recognized by a healthcare industry watchdog group for their dedication to patient safety. Baptist Hospital, Doctors Hospital, Homestead Hospital, South Miami Hospital and West Kendall Baptist Hospital each received an “A” grade in the Leapfrog Group’s Fall 2015 Hospital Safety Score, which rates how well hospitals protect patients from preventable medical errors, injuries and infections within the hospital. As a critical-access hospital, Mariners Hospital, which is also operated by Baptist Health, is not eligible to participate in the survey.

Baptist Health is one of the few healthcare systems in the country to have multiple hospitals earn consistent Straight A’s for eight report cards in a row. Baptist Hospital, Doctors Hospital and Homestead Hospital have earned Straight A’s since the spring of 2012, the first time these ratings were released. Only approximately five percent of graded hospitals nationwide have consistently maintained an “A.”

Thinh Tran, M.D., MBA, corporate vice president and chief medical and quality officer for Baptist Health South Florida, says these scores are a validation of the Baptist Health team’s commitment to patient safety. “It is part of the culture at Baptist Health South Florida to provide the safest care and best outcomes for our patients and that is reflected in these grades,” he said. “It really is a celebration and recognition for our doctors, nurses, staff and the entire health care team. I am very proud of our teams across the system.”

Launched in 2012, the Hospital Safety Score assigns A, B, C, D and F grades to more than 2,500 U.S. hospitals twice per year. It is calculated by top patient safety experts, peer-reviewed, fully transparent and free to the public. For more information about the Hospital Safety Score or to view the list of state rankings, please visit www.hospitalsafetyscore.org.

About Baptist Health South Florida
Baptist Health is the largest healthcare organization in the region, with seven hospitals (Baptist Hospital, Baptist Children’s Hospital, Doctors Hospital, Homestead Hospital, Mariners Hospital, South Miami Hospital and West Kendall Baptist Hospital) and more than 30 outpatient and urgent care facilities spanning three counties. The not-for-profit, faith-based Baptist Health has more than 15,000 employees and 2,200 affiliated physicians, and also includes Baptist Health Medical Group, Baptist Outpatient Services and internationally renowned centers of excellence. Baptist Health Foundation, the organization’s fundraising arm, supports services at all hospitals and facilities. Baptist Health was listed by Fortune magazine as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America (#23 in the nation) and has remained on the list for 15 years. It was also recognized as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies for the fifth year in a row by the Ethisphere Institute.

About The Leapfrog Group
Founded in 2000 by large employers and other purchasers, The Leapfrog Group is a national nonprofit organization driving a movement for giant leaps forward in the quality and safety of American health care. The flagship Leapfrog Hospital Survey collects and transparently reports hospital performance, empowering purchasers to find the highest-value care and giving consumers the lifesaving information they need to make informed decisions. Hospital Safety Score, Leapfrog’s other main initiative, assigns letter grades to hospitals based on their record of patient safety, helping consumers protect themselves and their families from errors, injuries, accidents, and infections.

Georgi Morales Pipkin, Baptist Health South Florida (786) 596-6534; [email protected]

Baby-Friendly USA, Inc. has designated West Kendall Baptist Hospital a Baby-Friendly facility for its commitment to encouraging new mothers to breastfeed their babies. West Kendall Baptist Hospital is the first facility in South Florida and one of only 286 hospitals and birthing centers in the United States to earn the designation.

The term Baby-Friendly, a registered certification mark, is reserved exclusively for facilities that have passed an on-site assessment confirming that the facility has implemented the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative’s Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding program. An abundance of scientific evidence points to lower risks for certain diseases and improved health outcomes for both mothers and babies who breastfeed.

“Providing exceptional patient- and family-centered care, with the incorporation of Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding, has been hardwired into our practices by the physicians, leadership and staff here on the Beautiful Beginnings Birthing Suites,” said Ann Mullings, R.N., director of Nursing Services at West Kendall Baptist Hospital. Baby-Friendly USA is the accrediting body and the national authority for the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative in the United States. A global program of the World Health Organization and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the initiative assists hospitals in giving all mothers the information, confidence and skills necessary to successfully initiate and continue breastfeeding their babies or feeding formula safely, and gives special recognition to hospitals that have done so.

“Breastfeeding education is one of the foundations of our Beautiful Beginnings Birthing Suites program for expectant mothers and their families, which has been a hallmark of our hospital since we opened in 2011,” said CEO Javier Hernandez-Lichtl. “Congratulations to all of our obstetrical physicians, nurses and staff on this significant accomplishment.”

“Recognition as a Baby-Friendly-designated facility demonstrates our team’s commitment to providing evidence-based maternity care with the goal of achieving optimal infant feeding, as well as strengthening the bond between mother and baby,” said Denise Harris, R.N., chief nursing officer of West Kendall Baptist Hospital. “The Baby-Friendly assessment team’s rigorous review of our program is another confirmation that we are delivering the highest standard of care to our new mothers.”

About West Kendall Baptist Hospital
West Kendall Baptist Hospital provides patient- and family-centered care to one of South Florida’s most vibrant and fast-growing communities. Recognized as a Magnet® organization for its rigorous standards of nursing excellence, the hospital also earned LEED Gold certification for its sustainable construction and operating practices. Its ACGME-accredited family medicine residency program operates in partnership with Florida International University’s Herbert Wertheim College of Medicine. West Kendall Baptist Hospital is part of the not-for-profit, faith-based Baptist Health South Florida family. Visit http://WestKendallBaptistHospital.com.

About Baby-Friendly USA, Inc.
Baby-Friendly USA, Inc. (BFUSA) is the nonprofit accrediting body and the national authority for the Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) in the United States. Its mission is to assess, accredit and designate birthing facilities that meet the BFHI criteria for implementing the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding and follow the International Code of Marketing of Breast-milk. BFHI is a global initiative of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). Visit http://BabyFriendlyUSA.org.

Contact: Arianne M. Cento; 305-978-8143

Leapfrog Group’s Hospital Safety Score recognizes dedication to patient safety

Four hospitals operated by Baptist Health South Florida have been recognized by a healthcare industry watchdog group for their dedication to patient safety. Baptist Hospital, Doctors Hospital, Homestead Hospital and West Kendall Baptist Hospital each received an A grade in the Leapfrog Group’s Spring 2015 Hospital Safety Score, which rates how well hospitals protect patients from preventable medical errors, injuries and infections within the hospital.

Baptist, Doctors and Homestead Hospitals also earned Leapfrog’s new “Straight A’s” gold badge for achieving a perfect score during every survey period since the Hospital Safety Score was launched in June 2012.

South Miami Hospital received a B score. As a critical-access hospital, Mariners Hospital is not eligible to participate in the survey.

The Hospital Safety Score assigns A, B, C, D and F grades to more than 2,500 U.S. hospitals, which are evaluated on 28 areas of patient safety including infection rates, surgical outcomes, physician staffing levels in the ICU and standard safety measures such as hand washing. Some 40 percent of hospitals receive a C, D or F grade.

“At a time when more than 1,000 people die every day from preventable accidents in hospitals, Leapfrog believes that patient safety should be Job #1 in every hospital, 24-7,” said Leah Binder, Leapfrog president and chief executive officer. “Baptist Health’s A grades validate its achievement in preventing harm within its hospitals, and we are proud to recognize the efforts of the care providers and staff.”

“These scores are a useful tool for patients to begin a conversation with their doctors when it comes to choosing a hospital for care,” said Brian E. Keeley, president and chief executive officer of Baptist Health South Florida. “Our scores signify our commitment to patients and their safety. And when combined with our recent star rankings in patient satisfaction from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), patients can be confident they are making informed decisions about where to be treated.”

The Hospital Safety Score is calculated by top patient safety experts, peer reviewed, fully transparent and free to the public. A full description of the data and methodology used in determining grades is available online at HospitalSafetyScore.org. Visitors to the website can also find informative videos, tips for patients, and a downloadable Hospital Safety Score mobile app for IOS and Android devices.

About Baptist Health South Florida
Baptist Health is the largest healthcare organization in the region, with seven hospitals (Baptist Hospital, Baptist Children’s Hospital, Doctors Hospital, Homestead Hospital, Mariners Hospital, South Miami Hospital and West Kendall Baptist Hospital) and more than 30 outpatient and urgent care facilities spanning three counties. The not-for-profit, faith-based Baptist Health has more than 15,000 employees and 2,200 affiliated physicians, and also includes Baptist Health Medical Group, Baptist Outpatient Services and internationally renowned centers of excellence. Baptist Health Foundation, the organization’s fundraising arm, supports services at all hospitals and facilities. Baptist Health was listed by Fortune magazine as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in America (#23 in the nation) and has remained on the list for 15 years. It was also recognized as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies for the fifth year in a row by the Ethisphere Institute.

About The Leapfrog Group
Founded in 2000 by large employers and other purchasers, The Leapfrog Group is a national nonprofit organization driving a movement for giant leaps forward in the quality and safety of American health care. The flagship Leapfrog Hospital Survey collects and transparently reports hospital performance, empowering purchasers to find the highest-value care and giving consumers the lifesaving information they need to make informed decisions. The Hospital Safety Score, Leapfrog’s other main initiative, assigns letter grades to hospitals based on their record of patient safety, helping consumers protect themselves and their families from errors, injuries, accidents, and infections.

Contact: Dori Alvarez; 786-596-3050