Northwell named a Fortune Best Workplace for Diversity

For the third straight year, Northwell Health has been named one of America’s most diverse companies by Fortune magazine and the lone New York health care organization to make the 2019 list.

Northwell ranks 69th on Fortune’s annual 100 Best Workplaces for Diversity, a partnership between Fortune and Great Place to Work that measures how well organizations create inclusive cultures for women, different cultural and ethnic communities, the LGBTQIA+ community, older employees and workers with disabilities.

Northwell Health, New York State’s largest health system with 70,000 employees, operates about 750 outpatient facilities, including over 200 primary care practices and 23 hospitals. The health system moved up 11 spots from Fortune’s 2018 rankings based, in part, because 82 percent of surveyed employees called Northwell a great place to work.

“We are honored to be included again this year in Fortune as a Best Workplace for Diversity,” said Jennifer Mieres, MD, senior vice president of Northwell’s Center for Equity of Care and the health system’s chief diversity and inclusion officer. “At Northwell, we are committed to fostering and maintaining an inclusive work place culture, advancing the integration of diversity and health equity into our health care delivery model.”

91 percent of employees feel good about Northwell’s contributions to the community

Dr. Mieres’ cited a diverse workforce which informs and improves Northwell’s understanding of the health care needs of the communities it serves. Half of Northwell’s workforce is made up of the historically underrepresented and 72 percent are women, according to Fortune’s diversity survey.

“This recognition validates the journey we are on and the manner in which we accomplish it. It lives and breathes in the values of Northwell and the 70,000 strong who personify it,” said Joseph Moscola, senior vice president and chief people officer.

Fortune relied on employee surveys as part of its criteria. Among the employee-based findings:

• 91 percent felt good about the ways Northwell contributed to the community;
• 90 percent were proud to tell others they work at Northwell;
• 89 percent had a sense of pride in work accomplishments
• 89 percent said they felt welcomed when they joined Northwell;
• 87 percent believe people were given ample responsibility.

The Best Places to Work certification qualifies Northwell for several workplace-quality lists, including the Fortune 100 Best Places to Work and other credentialed lists for millennials, women, and other industry-specific lists.

Are you Made for working at one of Fortune’s 100 Best Workplaces for Diversity? Apply today!

What you didn’t know about Cytology and why you should consider it as a laboratory science career

When it comes to how patients are diagnosed, cytology plays a huge role. At Northwell Health, laboratory technologists and technicians who work in our state-of-the-art laboratories are very instrumental in our success. They are responsible for preparing cytology specimens for microscopic evaluation by Cytotechnologists and Cytopathologists in detecting infections, premalignant and malignant conditions.

So, in preparing for a laboratory career in Cytology, what should you know? Here’s a shortlist of what you can expect your responsibilities would be:

1. Preparing slides from patient samples for examination.
2. Evaluate the quality slides for microscopic review.
3. Working closely with Cytotechnologists and Cytopathologists.
4. Using the latest and most innovative instruments and technology like Cytospin, Centrifuges, Hologic T2000, Hologic T5000, Automatic stainers, Automatic coverslippers, Slide printing and Hologic Imagers to deliver results that make a difference.
5. Processing specimens, particularly for patient clinical care and research.
6. Upholding the highest quality of care to the community you serve.
7. Collaborating with a talented team of ambitious individuals like you!

Choosing to go into this profession could be life-changing, not only for you but also for the patients you help so they receive the treatment they need to be in better health. As a Cytopathology lab technician, Diane Wieczorek, stated, “It’s a very rewarding experience since you know you are helping with a patient’s diagnosis and life. If I had to do it over again I wouldn’t change a thing, and as a lab technician that’s an achievement to myself.”

Explore Cytology laboratory careers at Northwell by visiting here.

Northwell Health Wellness Recap for 2019

At Northwell Health, we know that wellness starts with our team members. By focusing on our employees’ wellness, we’re delivering a healthy, engaged workforce and a culture of well-being. With system-wide walk challenges, food and nutrition transformations, well-being programs and online resources, we’re constantly working to build on our commitment to our employee’s health. 

Take a look at how we’ve helped our team members in 2019:

Child life specialists help kids be kids

Four-hour blood transfusions used to tax 14-year-old Akayllah McEwan’s mind as much as her body. While the healthy red blood cells pumped into her body treated her sickle cell disease, she struggled with the scourge of adolescence: boredom.

Then Child Life Specialist Sammy Sherman taught Akayllah to make “Blood Soup,” mixing water, red food coloring, marshmallows, red hot candies and toffees in mason jars to illustrate sickle cell disease’s effect on a cellular level and what the transfusions do to help her.

“I wanted to eat the food,” Akayllah giggled, then acknowledged, “I always kind of understood why I needed the transfusions. Sammy made it specific for me.”

Supporting patients and their families

At Cohen Children’s Medical Center, Sammy is one of two certified child life specialists in the hematology-oncology division who accompany kids from diagnosis through treatment. Since 2014, her position has been funded by a generous gift from Delta Air Lines.

Over the past decade, Delta has contributed more than $2 million to Cohen Children’s Medical Center. “Child Life is one of the programs not covered by health insurance,” explained Tricia Rumola, Delta Air Lines’ general manager of Community Engagement. “We hope our support will help families and patients have a sense of comfort going through an incredibly difficult time in their lives.”

Helping kids overcome fear and embrace hope

Delta’s sponsorship of Sammy’s position helps kids overcome fears and anxieties and learn to cope with challenging medical experiences. “My goal is to empower patients and families,” said Sammy, who holds a master’s degree in child life.

She uses Surgi Dolls and makes treatments more relateable to patients by helping them understand hospital equipment through therapeutic activities. Sammy also supports kids when they receive a terminal diagnosis, giving them space to enjoy time with their family, and feel like kids who happen to be sick — not sick kids.

“Sammy has an extraordinary ability to connect with children,” said Cynthia Rodriguez, Child Life and Creative Arts Therapy Program director. “While they may think they are just having fun with Sammy, she is undoubtedly teaching them, supporting them, and helping them to learn how to navigate their journey successfully.”

Sammy also connects patients with each other since they have limited opportunities to socialize with other kids. She started a monthly newsletter where they can submit jokes, stories and artwork to express themselves.

“Sammy is my go-to person at the hospital,” said Akayllah. “She takes my mind off of the transfusion and makes the hospital a normal area where I can be myself.”

“Sammy is really doing the work that is her life’s calling,” said Tricia. “Delta couldn’t be prouder to have our name connected to Sammy and the work she is doing.”

Meet Truly Ambitious Physician Assistant, Christopher Anderson

This post is part of a blog series highlighting Northwell Health’s Advanced Clinical Providers (ACP). Each Northwell Health employee was nominated by their manager as an individual who exemplifies a Northwell Health value.

This month, we’re proud to introduce you to the Truly Ambitious Christopher Anderson. Chris’s journey at Northwell began in 2013 when he joined Southside Hospital in his first leadership role as a supervising PA for the Acute Care Surgery Team. Chris then moved to the role of assistant director for PA Services. Today, you’ll find him making a true impact in his current role at Lenox Hill Hospital as the senior administrative director of PA Services.

Recently, Chris represented his profession, and Northwell, as a speaker at the American Academy of Physician Assistants, Executive Leadership Conference.  His lecture titled, “NP/PA and Physician Leadership Team: It Takes Two to Tango,” addressed fostering the partnership of caregivers across the clinical team.  “Physicians have been a large part of my clinical and administrative career growth, and their experiences and mentorship are pivotal in anyone’s growth,” he says. “All clinical team members must remain partners, as the synergistic nature to these interdisciplinary teams is key for high-quality patient care.”

Beyond presenting opportunities, Chris is excited about Northwell’s ACP training and fellowship programs where PAs and NPs are educated and mentored to help them take the next step in their career toward a specific specialty. At Northwell, he feels that “opportunities are endless and, most importantly, fully supported. It’s creating growth of the PA profession and for those looking to transform their careers into any direction they choose in healthcare.”

It’s programs like these that give Chris a great appreciation for Northwell’s emphasis on professional development and career growth: “The opportunities, mentorship, and leadership development programs offered are like no other place that I have worked before. Northwell strives to be a leader and the actions they demonstrate on the development of employees have proven results. I’ve been able to take classes on leadership and six sigma at Northwell’s Center for Learning and Innovation. They also afforded me the opportunity to obtain an advanced degree (MBA) with tuition reimbursement assistance.”

Northwell Relay: The big bike ride — from tragedy to positive action

In health care, we face the realities of life and death every day — it’s what we’re made for — but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t affect us. In June 2019, employees in the Department of Population Health lost a colleague, friend and member of the Northwell family.

Their team member passed away at the age of 38, leaving behind three young children. While many knew about her health condition, the news was still a shock for her colleagues for whom she’d been a part of daily life for over five years.

Honoring a legacy and building a better future

While her colleagues struggled with this tremendous loss, they were soon inspired to take positive action.Three senior leaders set up a sponsored bike ride from Northwell’s corporate office in New Hyde Park, NY, to Montauk, to raise funds for Northwell’s Employee Assistance Program, which helps employees and their families in times of need.

Kris Smith, MD, Northwell’s senior vice president of Population Health joined forces with Michael Gitman, MD, medical director of North Shore University Hospital and David Hirschwerk, MD, executive vice chair of Clinical Operations for North Shore University Hospital and Long Island Jewish Medical Center Department of Medicine. Together they rode the 120-mile trip as a tribute to Fabiola and to show What matters most and what Northwell is made of.

Inspiring others to go above and beyond

The ride inspired team members across Northwell to get involved.  “Our Northwell family pulls together to support one another,” says Michael Dowling, Northwell’s president and CEO. “Even in the worst of times, we find a way forward and take positive action.”

Kris says, “Going the extra mile (or 120) is an intrinsic part of who we are. It was a challenge, physically and emotionally, but we wanted to demonstrate to the organization that after we grieve, once we reflect — we pick ourselves up and fight on.”

Northwell’s What matters most employee giving program offers our employees a variety of ways to advance Northwell’s mission — all while providing critical support to the area that matters most to each individual employee donor.

An Appointment With: Patti Drolet, VP, Revenue Cycle

While Patti Drolet’s career in healthcare may have started in an entry-level clerical role, today she is the vice president of Revenue Cycle Operations at Northwell Health. Her experience at every level allowed her to gain well-rounded knowledge in all areas of revenue cycle. She accepted a leadership position at Northwell Health in 2004, where she has been using her strengths and history to help elevate the department’s performance and outcomes.

“As a leader, I take great pride in the role I have at Northwell,” says Patti. “To strategize and lead in the transformation of a business at this level requires commitment, passion, and authenticity in order to drive high-performing initiatives and teams.”

We sat down with Patti to discuss Revenue Cycle and why it’s an exciting career to join at Northwell in this month’s Appointment With.

What is revenue cycle and why is it important to Northwell Health?

Revenue cycle represents the business side of a health system and is responsible for billing and collecting all hospital receivables – a monumental task in today’s ever-changing healthcare environment.

Our role is to secure financial strength, enabling the health system to provide extraordinary quality of care in modern facilities by our clinicians.  We have an impact on patient care and the patient experience, and we take pride in knowing that our efforts help Northwell succeed in its mission.

What career opportunities are available in revenue cycle?

In revenue cycle, roles and skill sets range from entry-level clerical to leadership positions. Someone can begin in patient-facing areas, such as patient registration in our hospitals, patient financial counseling and customer service. Revenue cycle is also in non-patient-facing areas, such as insurance verification/scheduling, accounts receivable billing and follow-up, and in Health Information Management (HIM) documentation management.  Additionally, there are clinicians on our team who specialize in medical billing appeal writing, the Clinical Documentation Initiative (CDI) that validates the quality of our patients’ medical records, and in the Denial Prevention Unit (DPU) which helps us secure authorizations from our patients’ insurers for emergent admissions.

There is a very broad assortment of fulfilling careers available within the department.  And we are always looking for talented people!

What are four fun facts about working in revenue cycle at Northwell Health?

1. We have a unique opportunity to touch upon many different areas within the health system, such as patient experience, clinical departments and hospital executive leadership, among others.
2. Most of our leadership team began their careers in entry-level clerical positions.
3. We have a fun committee! We provide interactive activities for our team members throughout the year to engage in the community and the areas we serve.
4. We have a mentoring program for team members in addition to Northwell’s development opportunities at the Center for Learning and Innovation

What is your career advice to candidates looking for a career in revenue cycle?

If you have the passion and desire to work in a fast-paced, challenging and dynamic business environment, with a mission to improve the health system’s financial viability, this department is for you. Understanding all aspects of revenue cycle and learning the intricacies of this business makes for an exciting career.  Having experienced this firsthand, the opportunities available within revenue cycle and meeting the challenges of our ever-evolving health care system can be very rewarding.

Faces of Oncology Care: Clinical Laboratory

Clinical laboratories, like those you’ll find at Monter Cancer Center and our Imbert Cancer Center, serve a crucial role in the assessment and treatment of oncology patients. Our laboratories work together to deliver precise, accurate test results to ensure patients get the right treatment.

Meet some of the members of our oncology clinical laboratory team who are making a difference at the Northwell Health Cancer Institute, where we provide cancer care to more New Yorkers than any other healthcare provider.

La Donna’s decade of lab experience has provided a lot of insight into how a laboratory technologist can work collaboratively with the entire care team.  Her peers and colleagues at Northwell share a remarkable commitment to excellence in patient care and patient experience.

La Donna was initially drawn to oncology lab work because of the pace and the emphasis on accuracy and precision.  And at Northwell, she’s convinced that our commitment to emerging diagnostic technologies will keep her skills sharp while allowing her to actually contribute to the innovation taking place.

However, the greatest reward for La Donna is her sense of fulfillment and impact on the lives of others: “Your work makes a remarkable difference in patient care for one of the most vulnerable patient populations. Even though lab technologists are mostly unseen, I know that I’m a big part of each patient’s visit.”

Yolanda came to Northwell with more than two decades of lab technology experience.  She was drawn to the Hematology/Oncology Department at Monter Cancer Center because she was attracted to the commitment and excellence that the department provides.

Delivering results for patients in oncology lab requires speed, precision and accuracy. “Workflow starts with the lab results. Without the baseline results, doctors cannot diagnose; pharmacists cannot prepare the dose for chemo treatment; nurses will be awaiting instructions; and patient treatments will be delayed.”

Innovation is key to deliver the best quality of care and Yolanda believes that Monter’s newly acquired automated analyzers expedite testing times and lead to fast results for patients. It’s a perfect match between resources and culture. “It’s fulfilling when a patient’s lab result shows progress after receiving treatments. It gives such satisfaction knowing that I’m a part of their healing process while working behind the scenes.”

Since she joined Northwell Health in June 2017, Esperanza has found countless opportunities to pursue her career interests and focus on the science of the human disease processes. This passion drew her to the medical laboratory technologist role and has fueled her appreciation of the challenges she experiences at the Imbert Cancer Center.

Here her knowledge, skill sets and love of the science fit right in with Imbert’s unique mission and culture.  “I love it here. It’s caring, professional, relaxing and great a place to come daily. The contribution each one of us makes creates a mountain of knowledge and significant difference impacting the care and treatment of patients.”

As the lead technologist within her department, Esperanza also mentors staff and collaborates with team members throughout the system. “Every day renews my professional commitment and intense compassion for our patients in support of an extremely caring and innovative, institution of Northwell Health.”

Peter joined Northwell in December 2016 at Long Island Jewish Medical Center as a supervisor in the hematology laboratory.  He transferred to Imbert Cancer Center in April 2019 because he was drawn to oncology care and the ability to impact cancer patients directly.  Compared to other employers, Northwell stands out in Peter’s mind because “they care more about the patients and their issues. They also treat the employees with respect, and admire our diversity.”

Hired as an oncology lab manager, Peter appreciates the fact that the facility is close-knit and personal. This provides him with the opportunity to help out with the practice side, the treatment side and the laboratory. He can see and experience how each section of our facility comes together to do what’s right for the patient.

“My favorite aspect of my job is greeting the patients each and every day and to personally see how they are doing. It’s also working with a great team that has the same caring attributes that I do.”

Northwell Relay: Casual for Cohen – turning small change into big results

Each year, thousands of employees choose to give back to Northwell by participating in Casual for Cohen, a fundraising event where you can wear jeans to work for one or two days, for the donation of $5 per day. What some may consider small change adds up to big results for Cohen Children’s Medical Center — a cause very close to all of our hearts, including Dotti Ward’s, operations manager in Northwell’s Office of the Chief Information Officer.

Personal connections, professional pride

Dotti’s connection to Cohen Children’s stems from her personal experience, when her daughter became very ill with a virus at three years old. She was treated at the hospital and as Dotti remembers, “The level of empathy, compassion and professionalism was exceptional. I walked through those doors with a very sick child – now she’s a very healthy, happy young woman. I almost lost her. They saved her life.”

Dotti leads the employee activity committee in Information Services. She spends a lot of her time coordinating fundraising initiatives and over the years has seen her colleagues go above and beyond many times. “Our department is very supportive, they’re 100% behind us and they do everything they can,” says Dotti.

Last year, the department held a charity basketball tournament around the same time as Casual for Cohen, so Dotti spoke to the team captains and they all agreed to donate the proceeds to help Cohen Children’s. For Dotti, that’s what employee giving is all about, connecting people and spreading the message — why it matters and what fundraising can achieve.

What matters most

Dotti regularly sees huge acts of generosity at Northwell, which she puts down to the “absolute pride and honor of doing what we do for our patient community.” It’s the same mix of professional pride and personal empathy she experienced from the hospital staff. They’re leaders in pediatric care, but they’re also mentors and friends.

As a nonprofit organization, to keep doing what we do, we rely on the support of our communities. We already go the extra mile, for colleagues, patients and families, but together we can make things even better. Through What matters most, our employee giving program, we can develop more life-changing treatments, strengthen morale and meet our collective mission.

We’re currently spreading that message across the organization with the What matters most Relay in the run-up to employee giving day on December 3. Clinicians can show support by wearing blue accents — socks, a tie, jewelry or any accents that align with departmental protocols.

Why Joseph chose finance at Northwell over Wall Street

When Joseph Baglio accepted a position in Northwell Health’s Administrative Fellowship in 2003, he was walking away from a job on Wall Street.

“The same week I was offered a fellowship at Northwell, I was offered a job on Wall Street as an analyst,” recounts Joseph. “I did some soul searching and thought I wanted to invest my time in healthcare. I made the choice to come to Northwell for a year-long program and I’ve been here ever since.”

Today Joseph has advanced his career from starting as an administrative fellow to associate executive director of finance at Plainview Hospital and Syosset Hospital. In his role, he is responsible for the finance and operations management for both hospitals. Along with making sure his team have the resources they need to provide the best experience for our patients, Joseph manages the hospitals’ annual operating budgets, monitors patient volume, and develops capital and business planning. Joseph is also a mentor in Northwell’s 10-week Healthcare Management Program internship where he pays it forward to provide someone the education and experience he received starting his career.

It was his background in the Administrative Fellowship program that Joseph feels provided him with the experience to succeed in a role that balances operations alongside finance. “I’ve been exposed to different areas at Northwell which helped me prepare for the future,” says Joseph. “When you look at other organizations and roles in finance, they spend a lot of their day primarily only on finance. At Northwell, we’re the finance role of the future that’s just as much operations as it is finance. It makes for a career that’s not just emotionally fulfilling but intellectually stimulating.”

That is why he encourages other business majors to join the Northwell finance team. “There are so many opportunities here for those who are interested in finance. From hospital operations to corporate finance such as, accounting and financial reporting, it gives an individual a good foundation of how a healthcare organization operates from a numbers perspectives. Working in healthcare also means Joseph’s job is never boring: “Every year we are faced with many new challenges as the health system grows with the ever-changing industry.” It keeps the job from becoming routine and lets him use his experience and knowledge to help make sure our operations are fiscally viable.

But at the end of the day, it’s still all about having the ability to help people. “At Northwell, I am able to deal with a lot of day-to-day challenges that I would deal with in the market in a traditional finance role but I can feel good about my job because I’m helping people. It’s rewarding because I get the balance of being close to patients while still being on the business end of things.”

And Joseph’s work at Northwell isn’t over yet. “For me, I feel that not only has the organization invested in me through the fellowship program and other educational opportunities, I’ve invested a lot of time here too. It’s a two-way street, and I’m excited for what the future holds.”

Are you Made for a finance career at Northwell? Apply today!

Explore our careers culture at Northwell Health

When you work at Northwell Health, you’re not just getting a job – you’re getting a career. We’re proud to have cultivated a culture that focuses on our team members from diversity to recognition and wellness to giving back to our community. Watch our videos below to discover what it’s like to be a part of our Northwell family.

Meet Truly Ambitious Nurse Practitioner Santpal Chawla

This post is part of a blog series highlighting Northwell Health’s Advanced Clinical Providers (ACP). Each Northwell Health employee was nominated by their manager as an individual who exemplifies a Northwell Health value.

This month, we’re proud to introduce to you Santpal (Paul) Chawla who currently works as a nurse practitioner in the Department of Cardiothoracic (CT) Surgery at North Shore University Hospital (NSUH). Read below to learn more about him and his journey as an ACP at Northwell Health.

Paul started his Northwell career as a registered nurse in Oncology at NSUH. While he loved being able to work and learn from the exceptional nurses there, he knew he wanted to push himself even further in his career.

With this growth in mind and with help from Northwell’s tuition reimbursement program, Paul obtained his Family Nurse Practitioner certification in 2003. “The main reason for becoming a nurse practitioner was that I wanted to challenge myself and further grow as a nurse,” says Paul. “I had no idea how fulfilling this role would become for me.”

Upon becoming an NP, Paul joined the Medicine Service Line. It was there found he was able to combine the compassion and knowledge he gained as an RN with the critical thinking skills of an NP. And after a few years of working as a medicine NP, Paul moved onto to join the CT surgery team – a decision that he hasn’t regretted.

“The support from the CT Surgery team is the backbone of my success here,” says Paul. “I have seen this service grow in ways I never thought imaginable. We have the opportunity to save lives each day because of the resources and dedicated staff. The heart transplant and ECMO programs have challenged my skill sets and enabled me care for the most critically ill patients.”

It’s his combination of compassion and ambition that led to Paul being the most recent recipient of NSUH’s Nurse Practitioner of the Year award. The award is an honor that he considers to be the biggest highlight of his career. “My job in the CTICU is not possible without all the amazing nurses, physicians, PAs and fellow NPs. They have given me the education and tools to succeed,” says Paul. “I have the honor of working with some of the best NPs and PAs here at Northwell and to get this award from my colleagues is an amazing feeling.”

Throughout his career, Paul has always felt his ambition for growth supported by his team, leadership and the organization itself. As he says, “the sky is the limit at Northwell Health.”

If you’re Made for working with a team of exceptional ACPs, explore our opportunities here.

My first year: what it takes to be a nurse practitioner

The road from nurse to nurse practitioner (NP) presents new and exciting challenges, from managing complex care on a new team and oftentimes, working in a new environment. Taking this new path involves stepping outside your comfort zone to follow your passion.

In recognition of National NP Week, we spoke with NPs across our hospitals to get a look inside their journey thus far, including lessons learned and how they’re continuing to grow and develop as an NP.

It involves teamwork

As a new NP graduate, it’s important to communicate effectively with other clinicians on the care team – that includes not being afraid to ask questions and providing support to one another. Scott Snorteland, FNP-BC, from North Shore University Hospital feels a support system is crucial to a smooth transition into the role. “Without the help of my supervisor and my colleagues, I don’t know how I would have gotten through the first month. Teamwork is crucial to your role as an NP,” says Scott.

Merin Jacob, MS, ANP-C, who works in Employee Health Services (EHS) for Lenox Hill Hospital believes teamwork is most effective when you’re working with likeminded people. “Working in healthcare, we all have the same goal – to better the health of our patients and take care of each other. It’s important to put their safety and health first, and it makes it easier when you’re surrounded by those likeminded people who have the same goal in mind as you.”

Get comfortable with being uncomfortable

When you’re faced with new responsibilities and a new work environment, it can be overwhelming. However, it’s important to get past your insecurities, stay positive and be able to accept those new challenges. Meghan Billia, MS, FNP-C, who practices palliative care at Huntington Hospital found having a mentor helped her get through the first couple of months. “It’s so important to have people to go to and ask for advice or bounce ideas off of. My mentor, Nanci Berg, NP-C, was that person for me and really helped me through that transition period.”

A new challenge can also be exciting. Scott went from an RN in pediatrics at Cohen Children’s Medical Center to now working with adults as a family nurse practitioner in cardiovascular and thoracic surgery. “I knew going into this role that it was going to be challenging for me, but that’s partly why I took it. Getting out of your comfort zone and overcoming your fears is how you continue to grow.”

It’s more than clinical work, it’s about making connections

As a NP, making connections with your patients goes far beyond the bedside. You follow patients through a continuum of care – from 1:1 consults in an outpatient office to an inpatient stay, through discharge and back for follow-ups – it goes full circle. You build a sense of trust with your patients and it makes caring for them that more efficient.

Merin says working as an NP in EHS makes her feel like she’s part of a small community. “I spend time talking and building relationships with my patients because I know they may need to come back for follow-ups or new needs. You build a sense of trust with them and it’s a continuity of care outside the walls of the exam room that really makes a difference.”

Continue to grow

Every time you treat a patient, you’re faced with another opportunity to sharpen what you’ve learned. And ongoing education is crucial to being a successful advanced clinical provider. Scott, now seven weeks into his role as an NP, says he’s learned so much and is looking forward to continuing to intellectually challenge himself and advance his career.

“I’m amazed at how much I’ve learned from my first week as an NP to now. Going back to school provided me with the foundation I needed, but it always comes down to the hands-on experience. I’m still learning, and I’m OK with that because it’s how I’ll continue to reach my goals.”

Becoming an NP doesn’t just happen overnight or in orientation, recalls Tova Miller, AGACNP-BC, who practices internal medicine at Forest Hills Hospital. “It’s about understanding what you don’t know and utilizing what you do know. Being confident and continuing to learn helps you understand why we’re doing what we’re doing.”

Let your passion guide you

The hardest days can often leave the greatest impact on your career. It makes you remember why you made the choice to transition into an advanced role and challenge yourself to continue to do better.

“I feel that I’m really making a difference,” says Tova. “I make sure our patients are receiving the best patient care and it’s my goal to get them out of the hospital as soon as possible, and be safe while doing so. As an NP, I know I’m making a positive impact on peoples’ lives and it brings me happiness when I know I’ve done something to improve their quality of life.”

Making the transition is something you have to be ready for, according to Scott. “As challenging as it is some days, it’s equally rewarding.  As nurse practitioners, we’re here to be role models and pave the way for higher education for other nurses. I’m excited I took this leap to advance my career and I hope others take the opportunity to do so.”

Northwell Relay: Employee’s passion to honor a colleague gives birth to a new labor and delivery room

Over the span of six weeks, follow along with us during our first-ever Northwell Relay. Hear stories from our team members who are passionate about giving back to Northwell to support what matters most and making a real difference in patients’ lives.

Marianne DiStefano never counted the number of babies she delivered in her 30-year career, but it’s safe to say there were thousands. Everyone she encountered — coworkers, patients and families — recognized how much she loved her job as head nurse in labor and delivery at Staten Island University Hospital. It brought her indescribable joy.

This spring her coworkers honored her passion through the 2019 Northwell Health Walk at Staten Island. After Marianne’s passing in February 2018, her colleague Linda Spadafina set a team goal of raising $25,000 to name a labor-and-delivery room in Marianne’s honor within the new Gruppuso Family Women & Newborn Center, slated to be open late 2021.

“Marianne was a mentor and leader to many nurses during her career at Staten Island University Hospital,” says Laura Wenzel, senior director of maternal and child nursing. “It was heartwarming to see Linda and the staff collaborate with Marianne’s family to keep her legacy alive. Marianne continues to live on in the hearts of the nurses and families she impacted over the years.”

A star fundraiser raises the bar

Since the inception of the Northwell Health Walk at Staten Island in 2016, Linda Spadafina has been an exemplary committee member and team player who is made for unwavering support. As captain of Team Baby Steps, Linda raised more than $34,000 in the walk’s first three years to benefit Staten Island University Hospital. From “Taco Tuesdays” and “Waffle Wednesdays” to hosting big-ticket raffles and events, Linda’s fundraising tactics exemplify her creativity.

With 2019’s walk goal to honor Marianne, Linda took ownership of the challenge, bringing the hospital community together. “Even though we are part of a large hospital system, Staten Island University Hospital is still very much a community hospital,” Linda says. “The support that was shown at that walk in May is certainly proof of that.” With her persistence and dedication, and support from the walk committee, fellow employees and community members, the team surpassed their goal, raising nearly $30,000.

Employee generosity benefits our communities

Linda and her team exemplify the dedication that Northwell Health employees bring to their patients, each other and the places they work.

Northwell’s employee giving program — What matters most — offers team members additional ways to help us meet our $1 billion Outpacing the Impossible campaign goal. They can make a one-time gift, enroll in payroll deduction or contribute their myRecognition points to support the program or hospital of their choice.

Through their generosity and passion, Northwell Health employees like Linda are leading the way in helping push boundaries and redefine health care.

“Simply put, it’s a labor of love,” Linda says. “I do all of these crazy things because I love raising funds for this hospital and the community it supports.”