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Safeguarding Compassion Improves Care, Says Calvary Hospital President Michael J. Fosina

roundtable of New York City healthcare executives
Michael J. Fosina, President, Calvary Hospital; Shelly Anderson, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center President; Bruce J. Flanz, President and CEO of MediSys Health Network; and Dr. Michael Gustafson, Chief Executive Officer, The Schwartz Center, discuss compassionate care and the emotional wellbeing of healthcare professionals during a panel discussion in Midtown, New York. Photo: Calvary Hospital
“The sustained health of all caregivers – nurses, doctors, social workers, every professional in healthcare as well as every family caregiver – is paramount to providing compassionate patient care,” said Calvary Hospital President Michael J. Fosina, MPH, FACHE, at a roundtable of New York City healthcare executives conducted by The Schwartz Center for Compassionate Healthcare on June 3rd.
“Their well-being leads to improved experiences for patients, families, and everyone involved.”

Joined by Shelly Anderson, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center President and Bruce J. Flanz, President and CEO of MediSys Health Network, Mr. Fosina said Calvary professionals rely on emotional support from each other and the organization to deliver Calvary’s mission.

“When our staff receive support from leadership with programs like Schwartz Rounds®, it raises up what we’re doing, and it helps us in every way. My role is to make sure that all staff has the capacity and resources they need to take care of every patient and family member” added Mr. Fosina.

Schwartz Rounds® are regular forums where healthcare staff from all disciplines come together to reflect on and discuss the emotional and social challenges of caring for patients, and foster empathy, support, and improved well-being among colleagues.

“At Calvary, where we specialize in end-of-life care, we value well-being, empathy, and shared purpose among staff. That’s why we’ve been able to provide compassionate, dignified care to patients and families throughout New York for over 125 years. By acknowledging and prioritizing the emotional wellbeing of care providers, we’re able to ensure continuous compassionate care,” Mr. Fosina said.
“Nothing replaces human connection. When we are compassionate to the people providing the care, and work with them to prioritize their wellbeing, we ensure that compassion always remains at the heart of care.”

The Pathway to Excellence program recognizes healthcare organizations that foster a supportive and empowering workplace for nurses. It emphasizes shared decision-making, leadership, safety, quality, well-being, and professional development. Achieving this status is a mark of distinction recognized worldwide.

The Schwartz Center regularly convenes caregivers, policymakers, educators, and researchers to discuss current issues that affect the patient-caregiver relationship and the healthcare system’s capacity to provide compassionate care. Visit the Schwartz Center for more information about its programs and services and to learn more about the panel discussion.

About Calvary: Calvary has provided exceptional palliative and hospice care in the hospital and at-home throughout Greater New York for more than 125 years. Founded by the visionary Women of Calvary, Calvary is committed to providing compassionate care to patients with complex, life-limiting illnesses and their families. Calvary’s mission is characterized by a holistic, patient-centered approach to care that supports everyone’s physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Calvary is a member of ArchCare, the healthcare ministry of the Archdiocese of New York.

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