UPMC’s Post

At UPMC, our team members are more than just their job titles. Every day, they bring their unique skills and expertise to their roles. But there’s more to their story! Our colleagues also pursue their artistic, athletic, and creative passions. Whether they’re reigniting old hobbies or discovering new talents, our workplace is brimming with creativity. Meet Edward Dewitt, Manager, Public Relations, UPMC Western Maryland. “Making maple syrup is a wonderful way to shake off the winter blues and enjoy the outdoors,” says Edward. Sugarmaking is a family tradition, with his cousin’s family commercially producing maple syrup, which inspired him to start about six years ago. For Edward, the highlight of the entire process is gathering around the fire with family and friends, cherishing the time spent together.

Congratulations to Sr. Carolyn Schallenberger on an incredible 65 years of service!

This week's episode of UPMC NOW highlights a UPMC Vision Institute patient who received a genetic treatment aimed at treating her loss of vision and a program in Harrisburg that provides access to quality and physical health care through fitness and education. Next, see the newly opened Zoe Atrium on the 13th floor of UPMC Western Psychiatric Hospital and watch as UPMC Horizon announces the expansion of its emergency department to provide greater access to emergency medical services in the community.

Congratulations to the team at UPMC Lititz on receiving their first Pathway to Excellence® designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center! Pathway to Excellence recognizes the hospital's dedication to creating an empowering and supportive environment for nurses and recognizes the exceptional care experiences they consistently deliver. It also serves as a testament to our strong and continued commitment to nursing excellence and reflects the dedication, hard work, and collaborative spirit that define our hospitals. UPMC Lititz nurses embraced the six Pathway Standards, learning ways to prioritize their own well-being and health while focusing on safe, high-quality care for their patients.

The Center for Connected Medicine at UPMC released its 8th annual “Top of Mind for Top Health Systems” survey. This survey collects insights from senior leaders at health systems, acting as a barometer for priorities and concerns regarding digital innovation. For the second year in a row, AI has been highlighted as the most exciting and improved technology by surveyed leaders. In response to the survey, Dr. Robert Bart, Chief Medical Information Officer at UPMC, acknowledges the enthusiasm for AI’s potential to revolutionize health care by automating labor-intensive tasks. However, he stresses the importance of maintaining a balance and prioritizing high-quality patient care and robust data protection measures. 📥 Download the survey for key findings. https://lnkd.in/eUfmRjyE

Much gratitude to UPMC Lititz Employee Experience Committee for their efforts in gathering 56 backpacks stuffed with essential school supplies benefitting the students at the Warwick School District!

Through its clinical affiliation with UPMC, Washington County Ambulance and Chair became one of the first EMS organizations in the region to be trained and equipped to carry and administer blood to patients in the field. “Our ability to administer blood before a patient arrives at the hospital is increasing access to rapid, life-saving care,” said Larry Pollock, executive director, Ambulance and Chair EMS. “This is especially important for our predominantly rural communities that are a greater distance from the nearest hospital or trauma center.” The Pennsylvania Department of Health’s Bureau of Emergency Medical Services made a change to protocols, allowing for specially trained paramedics to administer blood in the field. “This program has required a substantial investment of time, equipment, and training hours for all involved in taking this next step in combating morbidity and mortality related to significant blood loss,” said Larry Pantuso, vice president of Strategy and Clinical Services, UPMC Washington, and board chair, Ambulance and Chair EMS. “Ambulance and Chair EMS is thrilled to be a part of making history in the evolution of advancing emergency medical response.” “At UPMC, when we see a need in the community, we look to see how we can make a difference,” said Vincent Mosesso, M.D., medical director, UPMC Prehospital Care, and chief medical officer, Ambulance and Chair EMS. “We are grateful for the opportunity to help make a difference for people in Washington County and surrounding communities before they get inside a hospital.”

We're excited to share that UPMC Williamsport has once again achieved Level II Trauma Center accreditation by the Pennsylvania Trauma Systems Foundation. “Since our Level II Trauma Center designation in 2021, our care teams have been instrumental in saving thousands of lives,” stated Ronen Elefant, MD, trauma surgeon and medical director of trauma services, UPMC in North Central Pa. “On average, we have cared for over 1,300 individuals annually with a remarkable 98% survival rate. While these statistics highlight our clinical expertise, the true measure of our success is seen in the lives we impact. Every life saved reinforces our commitment to providing exceptional, high-level clinical care here in Williamsport.” The PTSF accredits Pennsylvania trauma centers at four levels. UPMC Williamsport has been awarded the maximum three-year reaccreditation, highlighting the program’s exceptional clinical care, performance improvement, patient safety, and commitment. This achievement reflects a comprehensive review process that confirmed these high standards by independent surveyors and the board of the PTSF. UPMC Williamsport stands out as one of only three trauma centers serving the 12-county region of north central Pa. “In 2021, we set a new standard for care in the region, and three years later, we proudly celebrate a program that has grown significantly and continues to deliver life-saving benefits to our patients and the community,” said Patti Jackson-Gehris, president, UPMC Williamsport and UPMC in North Central Pa. Delivering advanced trauma care demands a collaborative team effort across various hospital departments, ensuring 24-hour availability for severely injured patients. Trauma surgeons, neurosurgeons, orthopaedic surgeons, cardiac surgeons, radiologists, nurses, and support staff all bring specialized training and expertise to the treatment of traumatic injuries. Beyond their clinical responsibilities, UPMC’s trauma experts also engage in community education and outreach, with a focus on injury prevention.

At 15 years old, Matt Berwick sustained a spinal cord injury. He found support in a wheelchair rugby league and met others with disabilities who he could look up to. Today, he serves as a role model himself, dedicating his time to raising awareness and providing representation for the disability community. Matt, now senior program manager for Disability Accommodations at UPMC, hosts a monthly segment at UPMC Children’s Hospital's Dream Big Studio, where he educates patients and their families about disabilities. His goal is to normalize disabilities and ensure children feel less alone. He aims to be positive and entertaining while teaching about disability, showing it’s not “bad” or “scary.” Matt uses familiar resources and concepts to reach patients of all ages. By discussing topics like sign language, service animals, and Autism Acceptance Month, he helps create an inclusive environment. Matt has also been an active part of the electronic health record disability documentation project, which was carried out by UPMC's Information Technology staff. Having navigated the medical system with a disability, he is passionate about improving access and ensuring patients receive necessary accommodations. He emphasizes the importance of asking the right questions to ensure accurate documentation and tailored support for each patient. "In order to get the right information to best support our patients' needs, we need to ask the right questions,” he says.