LEAD. INNOVATE. INSPIRE. - Hackensack Meridian Health...technology, all the way to further developing our robust continuum of care, Meridian Health is the beacon to a bright future

2015/2016 ANNUAL REPORT

Taking Care ofNew Jersey

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A Message from the PresidentJust as the motto of the Boy Scouts tells us to “be prepared,” Meridian Health has been preparing and positioning itself for the future of health care. In a time when hospitals are struggling to keep up with health care reform, Meridian has risen to accept the challenge of the industry’s demands – and answered with success. As the most successful financial year in our organization’s history, 2015 brought with it opportunities that other health systems are straining to achieve. For Meridian, the sky is no longer the limit; we’re beginning to aim far beyond it.

For the past few years we have had a front row seat for one of the most significant transformations of the health care industry in modern history. The old sick-care system has transitioned to one based on prevention and wellness. The adage, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” has suddenly come of age as we turn our attention to reducing risk factors that lead to chronic diseases and improving overall health. The old fee-for-service model of care delivery has shifted to a new paradigm of value-based care to control rising health care costs and improve quality. And, health care technology is moving at the speed of light.

One thing is clear—there is no room for complacency. Meridian continues to face these challenges head on with a continued focus on safety, quality, and providing a second to none patient experience. Our continuum of care has continued to grow, positioning us well for the future.

Our merger with Raritan Bay Medical Center and our proposed merger with Hackensack University Health Network will enable us to enhance access to care and improve clinical quality and service to the communities we serve. Meridian Health Partners, our clinically integrated network of physicians and health care providers, remains focused on improving health outcomes and hospital quality to generate value – better quality at lower cost – for patients. And, we are working steadily to implement our new enterprise-wide information technology system to ensure full interoperability throughout the continuum of care.

Meridian is also on a journey to become a High Reliability Organization that achieves zero patient harm. And we are holding ourselves accountable by shining a spotlight on our quality, performance, and outcomes data so we can set the bar higher for our quality efforts. After all, achieving a culture of safety and quality is what distinguishes our organization as a leading health care provider.

In an ever-evolving environment such as health care, there is one constant that I am certain of: we must be innovative to stay ahead of the curve. From BuildingHope with our cancer expansions, to excelling in the nation’s most advanced technology, all the way to further developing our robust continuum of care, Meridian Health is the beacon to a bright future in health care.

We are headed for an amazing future filled with endless possibilities, which could not be achieved without the support of our trustees, leaders, physicians, nurses, team members, volunteers, and you. We thank you for your interest in Meridian Health.

Sincerely,

President and CEO Meridian Health


Health System Statistics$2.1 Billion in Annual System Revenues

More than 15,000 Team Members

2,700 of the Area’s Finest Physicians

More than 2,900 Volunteers

8 Hospitals: 2,300+ BedsJersey Shore University Medical Center

K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital

Ocean Medical Center

Riverview Medical Center

Southern Ocean Medical Center

Bayshore Community Hospital

Raritan Bay Medical Center – Perth Amboy

Raritan Bay Medical Center – Old Bridge

Partner CompaniesPost Acute Care:

6 facilities, 906 beds

At Home Nursing, Hospice and Rehabilitation: 7 divisions serving

all of central New Jersey

Ambulatory Care: 27 service locations

Ambulance/Medical Transport: 100+ vehicles

Occupational Health: 6 centers

Rehabilitation: 17 outpatient, 2 inpatient facilities

Fitness & Wellness: 8 centers

Behavioral Health: 5 outpatient, 2 inpatient

Meridian’s Continuum of CareWith more than 230 locations across Middlesex, Monmouth, and Ocean counties, Meridian Health offers our communities convenient care close to home. In fact, our residents are all within 15 minutes of a Meridian facility. From preventive screenings to diagnostic medicine, inpatient to in-home care, fitness to rehab… Meridian offers it all across one seamless continuum. We’re there with you every step of your wellness journey. That’s Meridian Health. That’s Taking Care of New Jersey.


Colts Neck horse trainer grateful for care after double amputation.

Kathleen Poppe has always tried to pack every day with as much excitement as possible. Kathleen, who has lived at her horse farm in Colts Neck for 30 years, is a nationally recognized judge of equestrian events and competitions. She is also an accomplished rider, trainer, teacher of equestrian skills to students of all ages, and avid foxhunter.

Two years ago, Kathleen’s life took a dramatic turn. In April 2014, an autoimmune disorder led to amputation of her left leg above the knee. Then as a result of complications from another medical procedure, she had surgery at Bayshore Community Hospital less than 14 months later to amputate her right leg below the knee. Kathleen’s rehabilitation and road to recovery included the complete continuum of care available from Meridian Health.

“The care I received at Meridian facilities and then in my home from Meridian At Home was extraordinary,” says Kathleen. “After both surgeries, I received care in my home from the therapists and caregivers at Meridian At Home. I had acute rehabilitation at Riverview Rehabilitation Center, followed by many weeks at Meridian Nursing & Rehab at Shrewsbury.”

Jorge Corzo, M.D., medical director of Rehabilitation Services at Meridian Health says, “With Meridian’s full continuum of integrated rehabilitation services, Kathleen was able to receive the highest quality and continuity of care as she transitioned from acute, sub-acute, and then home care for the best outcome possible. Our teams and facilities worked collaboratively, including making special prosthetics for Kathleen to be able to resume her activities on the farm and with her horses.”

“I wanted to get back to activities on my farm as soon as possible,” says Kathleen. “The entire rehabilitation and home care team worked together to make this happen.” She is particularly grateful to the Meridian At Home team, who helped her get around her 300-year-old house. “The team worked with the narrow staircases and uneven floors so that I could safely navigate the space with my prosthetics and walker,” Kathleen says. “Then they worked with me on the uneven terrain surrounding my barn and stables. They did everything they could to help me return to working with my horses and students.”

In late 2015, Kathleen was named Horse Trainer of the Year by the Central New Jersey Horseman’s Association, bringing joy to her students, friends, Meridian care team, and the local community. “I believe that my progress and where I am today could not have happened anywhere else but at Meridian Health,” says Kathleen. “I cannot thank them enough.”

Meridian’s Continuum of Care in Action

Kathleen Poppe, 70, says getting up every morning and taking care of her horses kept her pushing ahead during her rehabilitation.

“We are committed to delivering a seamless continuum of the highest quality rehabilitative health care, maximizing each individual’s functional status,” says Jorge Corzo, M.D., medical director of Rehabilitation Services at Meridian Health.

Kathleen's continuum of care included:


January 1, 2016, not only marked the beginning of a new year, but also an exciting new chapter in Meridian’s history. We completed our merger with Raritan Bay Medical Center, adding their two campuses in Perth Amboy and Old Bridge to our growing family.

The Raritan Bay merger is about delivering value to the patients we serve, which means providing the highest quality care and the best access at the most appropriate cost. While Meridian Health serves primarily Monmouth and Ocean counties and parts of Middlesex County, Raritan Bay services Middlesex County and parts of Northern Monmouth County. Our neighboring geography, coupled with our shared missions and values, will provide many benefits to patients, including expansion of services currently available at Raritan Bay and enhanced access to the full continuum of services available at Meridian through a coordinated and seamless fashion.

In addition to sharing our charitable mission, Raritan Bay also has Magnet-recognized nurses and is committed to similar services such as cardiovascular, stroke, cancer, and orthopedics. Our combined talent and resources will be used to enhance access to care and improve clinical quality and service to the community, decrease costs through shared efficiencies and purchasing opportunities, and provide new academic and research opportunities for physicians, nurses, and clinicians.

Together, we will better position our organizations for the future, with continued growth of outstanding care throughout Middlesex, Monmouth, and Ocean counties.

We Are Family: Welcome, Raritan Bay Medical Center

“ We are very excited to welcome the trustees, physicians, nurses, team members, and volunteers of Raritan Bay Medical Center to the Meridian team,” says John K. Lloyd, FACHE, president and CEO of Meridian Health. “The merger of Raritan Bay with Meridian better positions our organizations for the future, with continued growth of outstanding care throughout our communities.”

“ With shared missions and values, this partnership provides many benefits to patients, including expansion of services currently available at Raritan Bay and enhanced access to the full continuum of services available at Meridian through a coordinated and seamless fashion,” says Michael R. D’Agnes, FACHE, president and CEO of Raritan Bay Medical Center.

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“ I’m so excited about the merger of our two outstanding organizations and to be partnering with Bob Garrett and the Hackensack team. We’re both nationally recognized because of the efforts of our committed trustees, executives, physicians, nurses, professionals and team members in delivering exceptional care. I’m convinced that with our combined talent we can transform health care delivery through innovation, technology and education.”

John K. Lloyd, FACHEPresident and CEO, Meridian Health

“ There has never been a more exciting time in health care, and I am so proud to stand with Meridian Health as we prepare to form Hackensack Meridian Health. By harnessing the collective knowledge and resources of both Hackensack University Health Network and Meridian Health, we are creating a world-class health system to offer our New Jersey residents some of the finest health care in the nation – streamlining care, offering patients more options, and discovering research for tomorrow.”

Robert C. Garrett, FACHE President and CEO, Hackensack University Health Network

Meridian Health and Hackensack University Health Network have selected the members of the board of trustees for the pending Hackensack Meridian Health Network merger. Both organizations selected 12 members from their current boards of trustees for a total of 24 board members for the new Hackensack Meridian Health Network board.

The board members for Hackensack Meridian Health Network will be:

Board Members Appointed by Hackensack University Health Network

Joseph Simunovich, Co-Chairman Member of the Board of Directors Suez North America

Robert C. Garrett, Co-CEO President and Chief Executive Officer Hackensack University Health Network

Keith Banks President U.S. Trust Bank of America Private Wealth Management

J. Fletcher Creamer, Jr. Chief Executive Officer J. Fletcher Creamer & Son, Inc.

Frank DeCongelio Retired Managing Director Global Securities and Derivative Operations Credit Suisse Investment Bank

Theresa de Leon Senior Vice President and Director PNC Wealth Management

Frank Fekete Managing Partner Mandel, Fekete & Bloom

Peter C. Gerhard Chief Executive Officer and Chief Investment Officer G Capital Management

Marvin Goldstein, Esq. Retired Partner Proskauer Rose LLP

Peter O. Hanson Chairman of the Board NAI James E. Hanson

William A. Kozy Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Becton Dickinson and Company

Joseph M. Sanzari President Joseph M. Sanzari, Inc.

Board Members Appointed by Meridian Health

Gordon N. Litwin, Esq., Co-Chairman Partner Litwin and Provence, LLC

John K. Lloyd, Co-CEO President and Chief Executive Officer Meridian Health

Richard A. Amdur, Esq. Senior Partner Amdur, Maggs & McGann

Gregg Azcuy President and CEO Storage Engine, Inc.

Thomas J. Dolan Chairman The TAS Group

Kathleen T. Ellis Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer New Jersey Natural Gas Company

Kenneth W. Hitchner, III President Goldman Sachs Asia Pacific

Thomas J. Kononowitz Retired Executive New Jersey Natural Gas Company

Michael F. Lospinuso, M.D., FACS Orthopaedic Surgeon Orthopaedic Institute of Central Jersey

Peter S. Reinhart, Esq. Director and Specialist Professor The Kislak Real Estate Institute Monmouth University

Alfred J. Schiavetti, Jr. Managing Member Rumson Capital Partners, LLC

Peter Wegener, Esq. Senior Partner Bathgate, Wegener and Wolf, P.C.

Hackensack Meridian Health: The Best is Yet to ComeMeridian Health and Hackensack University Health Network also signed a definitive agreement to merge on May 12, 2015. Upon state and regulatory clearance, Hackensack Meridian Health will certainly be poised to better meet the needs of our communities, benefiting both patients and the physicians who care for them.

The new normal for health care delivery has clearly been established: We need to dramatically improve preventive care, get significantly better at caring for patients with chronic conditions, and learn to stay financially viable in a value-based environment. We believe Hackensack Meridian Health will achieve all of this through our streamlined, expanded network of clinically excellent care. Our combined organization will have 11 hospitals and more than 120 ambulatory care centers, fitness and wellness centers, home health services, rehab centers, and skilled nursing centers spanning Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Middlesex, Monmouth, and Ocean counties. We are excited to offer better care to more residents throughout New Jersey, and will use our collective strengths to ensure a health network dedicated to family- and patient-centered care, world-class education, and tomorrow’s research.

This is a very exciting time for our hospitals, our team members, and especially our patients.

Licensed Acute Beds 3,729

Our New Network will Include

Number of Hospitals 11 Acute

2 Children’sTeam Members

25,266

Medical Staff 5,838

Acute Admissions 153,786

ER Visits 557,444

Net Revenue $4.1BResidents in Training

442


Population Health looks at health care from a different perspective. Instead of treating patients when they’re sick, Population Health allows us to improve patient health and prevent sickness from occurring or worsening. Population Health at Meridian grew significantly in 2015 – adding team members, growing its clinically integrated network, and expanding its number of payor partnerships. Population Health also implemented new online, data-driven tools, enhancing patient care and providing physicians with a new level of insight.

Partners in Good Health

Meridian Health Partners, Meridian Health’s clinically integrated network, is growing rapidly, boasting more than 1,500 participating physicians, which has expanded the network by nearly 50 percent between November 2015 and February 2016. Meridian Health Partners provides administrative support for clinical data analysis and reporting, enabling its members to focus on delivering the best coordinated care. By giving physicians a more holistic view of their patients' health, patients are guaranteed treatment and care plans that best suit their individual needs, resulting in improved quality and satisfaction.

Strength in Numbers

As Meridian’s Accountable Care Organization (ACO) enters its fourth year, it has grown to 700 participating providers and more than 44,000 beneficiaries. In 2014, Meridian’s ACO experienced another successful year, meeting key benchmarks and achieving a Quality Score of 86.45 percent. Meridian’s ACO submitted for a three-year renewal and was approved. The renewal period will last from 2016 until 2018.

Keeping Care Affordable

Meridian Health Partners strengthened its affordable health care offerings through contract signings with Aetna, AmeriHealth New Jersey, and Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey (BCBSNJ). Aetna will be rolling out Aetna Whole HealthSM– Meridian Health, a co-branded product with Meridian Health that gives Aetna members cost-effective access to highly coordinated care through Meridian Health Partners and Meridian Health’s hospitals. With Horizon BCBSNJ’s OMNIA plan and AmeriHealth New Jersey’s Advantage plan, participants save on out-of-pocket costs by utilizing each plan’s Tier 1 network featuring Meridian Health. These contracts are a culmination of Meridian Health’s effort to develop programs that integrate patient care while simultaneously reducing costs and increasing quality.

Getting Connected

Meridian Health is leveraging its Cerner HealtheIntent™ platform to improve patient care and engagement across its more than 100 locations. The multi-purpose solution enables Meridian Health to collect patient data across its continuum of care, helping improve outcomes and lower costs. Meridian Health has already implemented 13 disease and wellness registries and is in the process of executing 10 additional registries, giving physicians better insight into their patients and helping proactively expose gaps in care. Meridian Health is also using Crimson Population Risk Management Platform in order to manage cost and quality, putting Meridian’s vast clinical data to work.

Putting Care First

Meridian Health is dedicated to delivering the best care to its patients and that is why we’re redesigning the current care management model across the continuum of care. A successful care management program will work seamlessly across Meridian from hospital to home care, benefiting both Meridian patients and team members by ensuring patient care is delivered safely, effectively, and efficiently. Team members and team leaders have been meeting regularly in order to gain a deeper understanding of today’s current care model, uncover areas of improvement, and identify where care can be streamlined.

Population Health as a Priority

Using Data to Drive Patient CareMeridian Health’s Population Health model uses data to gain greater insight into patients. This new perspective enables Meridian and its physicians to personalize and coordinate care, and identify care gaps leading to improved patient outcomes.

Meridian Health’s clinically integrated network, Meridian Health Partners, grew by nearly 50 percent between November 2015 and February 2016. Meridian Health Partners gives physicians a more holistic view of their patients' health, leading to better quality care.


While our cardiac surgery patient volumes speak volumes about our program, we’ve also had some great things said about us. Meridian Health’s Community of LifeSavers Program received The New Jersey Hospital Association’s 2015 Health, Research, and Educational Trust (HRET) Community Outreach Award

Meridian Health received a 3-Star Designation for Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting by the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS)

Meridian Health was the first and only New Jersey health care system recognized as a center of excellence in treating patients with chest pain by the Society of Cardiovascular Patient Care (SCPC)

Jersey Shore University Medical Center:Get With The Guidelines® – Heart Failure Gold-Plus Quality Achievement AwardAmerican College of Cardiology’s NCDR ACTION Registry – Get With The Guidelines® Platinum Performance Achievement AwardAmerican Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline® Heart Attack Receiving Center AccreditationAmerican Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR)Healthgrade’s Cardiac Surgery Excellence AwardTM

U.S. News & World Report rated Jersey Shore high-performing for heart bypass surgery and heart failure proceduresIntersocietal Commission Accreditation for ECHO Laboratories

Ocean Medical Center:Get With The Guidelines® – Heart Failure Gold Quality Achievement AwardAmerican College of Cardiology Foundation’s NCDR ACTION Registry – Get With The Guidelines® Gold Performance Achievement AwardAmerican Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR)

Bayshore Community Hospital: Get With The Guidelines® – Heart Failure Silver-Plus Quality Achievement AwardMission: Lifeline® Silver Receiving Center AwardAmerican Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR)

Riverview Medical Center:American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline® Heart Attack Receiving Center AccreditationAmerican Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR)Intersocietal Commission Accreditation for ECHO Laboratories

Southern Ocean Medical Center:American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR)

Raritan Bay Medical Center – Perth Amboy:American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline® EMS Silver Award

Raritan Bay Medical Center – Old Bridge:American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline® EMS Silver Award

A Breakthrough Treatment for Atrial Fibrillation The experts of Meridian CardioVascular Network are committed to the active advancement of cardiovascular research, treatment, and patient care. Jersey Shore University Medical Center became the first hospital in New Jersey to perform the newly approved Watchman Left Atrial Appendage Closure Implant procedure, providing patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation an alternative to long-term “blood-thinning” warfarin medication. By targeting the place in the heart that produces blood clots which can cause a stroke, the new Watchman technology provides an exciting alternative to warfarin – a medication with many lifestyle and diet implications. For this program specifically, Meridian ranks among the leaders in the state and top tier nationally.

A TAVR Milestone: 100 Procedures and Counting Jersey Shore recently marked the success of its Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) program by completing the 100th procedure in 2015 and is on pace to do more than 150 in 2016. TAVR is a minimally invasive treatment for patients with critical aortic stenosis, giving new hope to patients who are inoperable due to other co-existing medical conditions. For most patients with severe aortic stenosis, traditional treatment meant a surgical procedure known as Aortic Valve Replacement, but now more than 100 patients with severe aortic stenosis that were once considered too high risk for traditional surgery have received this innovative treatment option.

Meridian CardioVascular Network provides the region’s most complete, most coordinated heart and vascular care. Our heart and vascular experts, who tout years of professional service, offer highly advanced and personalized care others simply cannot. From breakthrough treatments, such as the Watchman Left Atrial Appendage Closure Implant procedure, to milestones in achievements, including more than 100 annual Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) procedures and a bounty of awards, Meridian’s CardioVascular Network certainly has a heart of gold when it comes to the heart of the matter: our cardiovascular patients. In 2015, Jersey Shore performed 790 cardiac surgeries and 13,846 procedures in our cardiac catheterization and electrophysiology labs.

Meridian never skips a beat when it comes to the highest quality cardiovascular care. Although Meridian Health was formed in 1997, its cardiac surgery program began at Jersey Shore in 1990 with humble beginnings and cardiology roots dating back over 100 years. Those humble beginnings would later grow into remarkable achievements and impressive volumes across Meridian. With over 150 specialists now involved in cardiovascular care, Meridian CardioVascular Network has grown into a top-tier quality program in New Jersey, rivaling programs in New York City and Philadelphia.

Meridian CardioVascular Network is one of the largest programs in the state with Jersey Shore among the top three largest programs in New Jersey for angioplasty, electrophysiology, and cardiac surgery. In a time when, nationally, cardiac surgery has declined significantly, Meridian continues to grow its volumes and provide the highest-quality service available in the area. In fact, there have been nearly 20,000 surgeries since the inception of the program.

Living with Heart with Meridian CardioVascular Network

“Every day we set our goals higher, ensuring that our patients and our communities have access to the very best heart care,” says Meridian CardioVascular Network’s corporate medical director, Richard M. Neibart, M.D.


Bayshore Community Hospital celebrated the opening of its multi-disciplinary cancer clinic in 2015.

With a $128 million investment, Meridian Health is improving cancer care for the communities we serve with six expansion projects. By upgrading our facilities, providing even more advanced cancer treatment technology, investing in new cancer specialists, and perfecting a multi-disciplinary approach to care, we are elevating cancer services and truly BuildingHope.

Meridian’s plan began with a brand new cancer center at Meridian Health Village at Jackson, which opened last April. Shortly after, Meridian broke ground on a 29,000-square-foot expansion at Riverview Medical Center that will feature physical, visual, and technical upgrades.

In November, Bayshore Community Hospital celebrated the opening of its new multi-disciplinary cancer clinic that is enhancing cancer services for the residents of Holmdel and the surrounding community. Jersey Shore University Medical Center also broke ground on its HOPE Tower Project – a $265 million building development on the hospital’s east campus that will provide a new healing outpatient experience for the community and will include a dedicated cancer center and clinical academic center.

Earlier this year, Southern Ocean Medical Center marked a milestone in its cancer expansion as the new infusion suite opened to patients. And, most recently, Ocean Medical Center kicked off their construction project to mark the beginning of their new cancer clinic expansion which will include a 22,200-square-foot renovation on campus, and 6,500-square-foot addition off campus, and will provide a state-of-the-art healing environment for outpatient treatment and services.

With these investments, Meridian is well positioned to provide a personal and compassionate experience to each and every patient we have the privilege of caring for. But don’t just take our word for it. In 2015, The Commission on Cancer of the American College of Surgeons granted three-year accreditation to the cancer program at Meridian Health, making it the first health system in New Jersey to be recognized as an Integrated Network Cancer Program. This elite recognition further acknowledges the high-quality cancer care we provide.

Meridian Cancer Care is BuildingHope and Elevating Cancer Services

For cancer patients, Meridian Health’s multi-disciplinary, team-focused approach is a “game changer,” according to Mark J. Krasna, M.D., corporate medical director of Meridian Cancer Care, who is pictured with Thomas Bauer, M.D., medical director of Thoracic Oncology for Meridian Health. Over the last few years, Meridian has recruited the best and the brightest cancer specialists from the finest institutions. Many have trained at premier facilities across the country, and have chosen to practice in a community setting.

TrueBeam® is the most advanced, non-invasive radiation treatment available and Meridian is excited that we will soon be able to offer a total of six throughout our system. This technology provides our multi-disciplinary teams with the ability to better manage cancer anywhere in the body, including the lung, breast, head and neck. It is currently available at Meridian Health Village at Jackson and Riverview Medical Center is home to two. Future installments are planned for Ocean Medical Center, Southern Ocean Medical Center, and the new HOPE Tower at Jersey Shore University Medical Center.


Recognizing the Best

Jersey Shore was recognized as a Best Hospital for 2015-16 in New Jersey and the New York metro area by U.S. News & World Report for neurology and neuroscience. Jersey Shore ranked number five in New Jersey and number 10 in the New York metro area. This means that Jersey Shore was ranked in the top 10 percent in the country in these specialties! Meridian Health also received the 2015 Get With The Guidelines® – Stroke Gold Plus Quality Achievement Awards from the American Heart Association for the stroke programs at Jersey Shore, Ocean, and Riverview. Additionally, Bayshore, Raritan Bay and Southern Ocean Medical Center have received the Get With The Guidelines® – Stroke Silver Plus Quality Achievement Award. The Get With The Guidelines® awards recognize the facilities’ commitment and success in implementing a higher standard of care by ensuring that stroke patients receive treatment according to nationally accepted guidelines.

Integrative Health and Medicine Program Comes to Life with $10 Million in Donations

In mid-2015, Meridian Health announced two substantial gifts totaling $10 million. Joan and Robert Rechnitz, founders of the Two River Theater Company, donated $5 million to Riverview Medical Center Foundation to support the launch of an integrative health and medicine program. Inspired by the couple’s gift, and with the program underway, an anonymous donor provided an additional $5 million donation toward the initiative as well.

Integrative medicine is not just a philosophy or approach around whole-person care — it’s about additional interventions that focus on looking at a person’s emotional, mental, and spiritual status along with the physiology of the disease or illness. The Meridian Integrative Health and Medicine Program will come to life this year to provide wellness and preventive medicine to our communities through outreach events and a new Center of Integrative Health & Medicine in Meridian Health Village at Jackson. Our program will focus on incorporating evidence-based medicine and multi-disciplinary collaboration in the delivery of world-class, integrative patient-centered care, and will address five pillars of wellness (nutrition, activity, resilience, purpose, and sleep) by providing care for patients with conditions such as sleep disorders, chronic pain, cancer, depression, anxiety, stress, cardiovascular disease, and women’s health-related conditions.

According to Alan Colicchio, M.D., corporate medical director of Meridian Neuroscience, Meridian’s neurosurgery volumes have grown exponentially over the past five years, and Jersey Shore’s neurology and neurosurgery programs have ranked in the top 10 percent of all U.S. hospitals for the past two years.

Ronald Benitez, M.D., medical director for the Stroke Rescue Center at Jersey Shore, credits the success of the hospital’s Stroke Program to its simple but significant multi-disciplinary approach.

Meridian Neuroscience Provides Top-Notch, Compassionate CareLife can change in the blink of an eye, which is why Meridian Health offers the region’s most complete lineup of neuroscience services for stroke, spine injuries, concussion, epilepsy, brain tumors, movement, memory disorders, and more – including the region’s only Stroke Rescue Center and medical innovations that are reshaping lives.

Jersey Shore’s Stroke Rescue Center Reaches a Milestone

Last fall, Jersey Shore University Medical Center celebrated the 10th Anniversary of its Stroke Rescue Center, a truly innovative and progressive program that has saved countless lives in our community. When stroke symptoms occur, every minute counts. Effective treatment delivered within the first three hours is critical to limiting the damaging effects of stroke. Jersey Shore's Stroke Rescue Center and board-certified neurologists are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Jersey Shore is also the only hospital in the region to be both a state-designated Comprehensive Stroke Center and a nationally accredited Primary Stroke Center. This means Jersey Shore meets the highest national standards for safety and quality.


Jersey Shore University Medical Center is the regional provider of cardiac surgery and is home to the only trauma center and stroke rescue center in the region. Through the hospital’s clinical research program, and its affiliation with Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Jersey Shore serves as an academic center dedicated to advancing medical knowledge, training future physicians and providing the community with access to promising medical breakthroughs.

HOPE Tower: A Thoughtful and Accessible Health Care Experience

Jersey Shore broke ground last November on HOPE Tower – a $265 million building development on the hospital’s east campus that will provide a new healing outpatient experience for the community. HOPE Tower’s expected date of completion is early 2018. Guided by a patient-centered approach towards care and informed by the latest medical breakthroughs, HOPE Tower expands upon Jersey Shore’s comprehensive services by providing a thoughtful and accessible health care experience. The development includes HOPE Tower – a ten-story medical office building housing a dedicated cancer center, outpatient imaging services, a clinical academic center, an innovative simulation laboratory, and a nine-level parking garage building with more than 1,500 new parking spaces for patients, guests, and team members. HOPE Tower will allow us to expand our services in a modern, healing environment with access to leading clinicians and the latest medical breakthroughs.

A Sound So Sweet

Jersey Shore introduced a cochlear implant surgery program in Monmouth and Ocean counties, providing new hope for children and adults, whether they’re born deaf or experience hearing loss later in life, to talk on the phone, listen to music, and hear the voices of their friends and loved ones. There are currently 36 million Americans who are living with some degree of hearing loss which is expected to double by 2030.

An Endoscopy First

Jersey Shore now performs endoscopic surgery with the new AXIOS stent for the treatment of pancreatic pseudocysts, fluid and tissue filled cavities that form in the pancreas. This is the first stent that is specifically designed for drainage of a pancreatic pseudocyst and provides a minimally invasive option for patients who may suffer from this painful and potentially serious condition.

One Call Patient Transfers to Meridian Health

The Meridian Transfer Center at Jersey Shore is a valuable, convenient resource for health care providers to connect their patients to the best services, fast. With just one phone call, emergency specialists from area community hospitals can reach dedicated nurses who expedite the patient experience by connecting to physician specialists, notifying on-call teams, arranging transport, assigning a bed, and everything in between. We have all of the connections for both emergency and non-emergency services. Cardiac services for surgery and interventional measures. Stroke for the only state-designated Comprehensive Stroke Center. A specialty children’s hospital for the kids. And trauma services when it’s most needed.

HOPE Tower will open to the community in early 2018.

As chairman of Emergency Medicine at Jersey Shore, Robert Sweeney, D.O., ensures we are always providing qualified, compassionate care with state-of-the-art technology and emergency services to the community 24 hours a day, seven days a week.


K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital is the first children’s hospital in Monmouth and Ocean counties. As the region’s first and most comprehensive pediatric program, K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital is committed to advancing pediatric care. Most recently, it introduced NICVIEW to its Neonatal Intensive Care Unit - an innovative video streaming technology designed for parents and families to enjoy virtual visits with their babies receiving care in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) when they can’t be there.

An Expanded Home for the NICU and Maternity

The hospital unveiled an expanded Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, along with a dedicated antepartum unit for women with high-risk pregnancies, ensuring the critical needs of the community’s most vulnerable newborns are met, and providing the best care available for women experiencing high-risk pregnancies. The 8,168-square-foot NICU provides nine new private NICU patient rooms and two twin rooms for a total of 13 new NICU bassinets. The NICU also features Michael’s Feat Family Room – a dedicated space where NICU parents and families can relax in a calm and peaceful setting with convenient access to amenities, including a sitting area, a shower, and a washer/dryer. Jersey Shore also renovated six private labor and delivery rooms for a total of 32 private maternity rooms. The rooms feature soothing decor, a sleeper chair for parents, and private bathrooms – offering mothers a more comfortable environment as they welcome their newborns into the world.

Generous Gift Supports the Child Life Program

K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital announced a $250,000 donation from iPlay America, a premier indoor theme park located in Freehold, New Jersey. The gift will help fund the Child Life Program at K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital, which focuses on supporting the emotional well-being of young patients and their families during a hospital stay. The gift allows the Children’s Hospital to make upgrades to the hospital’s playrooms, enhance the Music Therapy Program, and expand Child Life services to the Pediatric Emergency Department and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

Donor Support Propels Pediatric Palliative Care Program

There is nothing more tragic than a child suffering from a serious illness. Thanks to support from the Morris & Clara Weshnak Family Foundation and Liam’s Room Inc., K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital is implementing a pediatric palliative care initiative to provide better care for children suffering from chronic, potentially life-limiting conditions and their families. Funding will support the creation of a physical space (Liam’s Room) that will serve as a “home away from home” for children and families during any period of care at K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital. In addition, funding will support clinical education for team members in the key components and implementation of leading pediatric palliative care practices. The goal of Meridian’s Pediatric Palliative Care Program is to add life to the child’s years, not simply years to the child’s life. We thank our donors for their support in making that happen.

Pediatric Critical Care physician Matthew MacCarrick, M.D., and Child Life’s Sara Auerbach introduce a young patient to “Monty,” the patient puppet.

K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital welcomed many special visitors this year including country singer Jessie Chris, players from the Lakewood BlueClaws (bottom left), local singing sensation and NBC’s The Voice finalist Jacquie Lee, and hospital spokesperson and soccer star Christie Rampone (bottom right).

Special Guests visit the Children’s Hospital


Ocean Medical Center experienced yet another exciting year that was filled with change and accomplishments. Outstanding financial performance paved the way for future growth plans, due in large part to a record number of people served and strong relationships with physicians. Paired with an exceptional team of clinicians and support staff, quality care and a memorable patient experience were at the forefront of all guest interactions and made Ocean a destination for outstanding care.

Dynamic Growth Leads to Big Plans

One of the most notable accomplishments of 2015 was Ocean’s financial performance. At a time when many other hospitals are struggling, high inpatient and emergency volumes, as well as higher acuity patients, contributed to a record-setting financial year for the facility. Emergency Department visits at Ocean and Ocean Care Center reached an all-time high of more than 86,000 and growth in admissions neared 15,000. Construction was approved for a new 36-bed patient care unit with private rooms in the third floor shell over the Emergency Department, and funding for renovations to existing patient rooms. Additionally, the Medical Center added more staffing to accommodate volume demands and support a high-quality patient experience.

Physician Support Strengthens Resources for the Community

Physician collaboration continues to be one of the unique features of Ocean’s culture. 2015 was the first full year collaborating with Jersey Coast Vascular Institute, where they now accept an expanded base of payors and have opened access to a tremendous volume of patients. Ocean’s robotic surgery volume continued to accelerate, and has even surpassed volumes at other hospitals in the region. Physicians from surrounding hospitals joined Ocean’s medical staff and are helping to grow the Orthopedic Surgery Program, and a new anesthesia practice and OB/GYN practice are enhancing specialty services for the local community.

A Relentless Quest for Quality and Service Excellence

Behind all these services and programs is an exceptional team, which is to be commended for all their efforts to achieve such great outcomes. Quality care is at the heart of their efforts, and Ocean received a grade “A” in 2015 from The Leapfrog Group for quality outcomes, and saw a reduction in hospital-acquired infections. There is always room for improvement, and the team is up to the task. In fact, their focus and commitment to the organization was evident as our 2015 team member engagement score ranked Ocean Medical Center in the top two percent nationally, and over 125 team members participated in Simulation Lab activities to learn techniques to improve upon interpersonal skills and enhance the patient experience.

Along with the Ocean team and physicians, hospital President Dean Q. Lin, MHA, MBA, FACHE, FCPP, is well poised to continue the tremendous momentum and growth that the Medical Center has experienced in recent years.

Orthopedic surgeons, such as Joseph Bogdan, M.D., have helped to make Ocean Medical Center a destination for joint replacement surgery.


Riverview Medical Center had an outstanding year, which included the groundbreaking of its new cancer care facility. Recognition of key programs and the growth of many service areas helped lead the hospital to a banner year. Riverview continues to attract renowned physicians, and with the assistance of many caring clinicians and team members, has performed complex medical cases with great outcomes, making it a destination of choice for emergent and planned visits.

Unique and New at Riverview

With the help of its talented physicians, Riverview’s surgical services saw significant growth in 2015. One procedure that was introduced is called Combined Endoscopic and Laparoscopic Surgery, or CELS. This procedure combines the expertise of a gastroenterologist, as well as a surgeon, to remove large or hard-to-reach polyps without the need to remove part of the colon. It is an innovative procedure that is performed by only a few medical centers in the country. Riverview additionally introduced a life-changing device for acid reflux sufferers called LINX, which is a small, flexible band of interlinked titanium beads with magnetic cores, which prevent reflux from the stomach into the esophagus. Also launched in 2015 was BARRXX, which consists of radio frequency ablation to treat chronic heartburn or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, commonly known as GERD. With the implementation of LINX and BARRXX, combined with the dramatic increase of esophageal cancers across the county, Riverview is uniquely positioned to become an expert in the field of esophageal diseases.

Equipment, Experience, Excellence

Since mammography became common place in the 1980s, the mortality rate from breast cancer among American women has decreased by 35 percent. This is largely due to early detection and improved treatment. In 2015, Riverview proudly played a large part in helping women in the surrounding communities stay healthy. Beyond its spa-like amenities, the Women’s Center utilizes Tomosynthesis, the most advanced mammography screening technology available, and highly trained radiologists to read results and perform biopsies. This combination of equipment and experience means that in 2015, Riverview diagnosed 371 women with breast cancer. Of those, 88 percent fell into the “early, localized, or operable” category, which means that a diagnosed woman would have to undergo less extensive surgery, less frequent or aggressive chemotherapy, and that the rate of mastectomies would be reduced.

Beautiful Inside and Out

In 2015, Riverview was honored to be recognized by several organizations. For the first year ever, Riverview placed within the Top 20 on Soliant Health’s “Most Beautiful Hospital in the U.S.” list. Additionally, the hospital was recognized as a “Best Hospital for Hip and Knee Replacement” by U.S. News & World Report, placing number nine in New Jersey and number 18 in the New York metro area. Furthermore, Riverview achieved a safety score within the top 10 in New Jersey, outranking national major teaching hospitals.

Negin N. Griffith, M.D., a plastic surgeon affiliated with Riverview, Bayshore, and Jersey Shore (left), works with many women undergoing breast reconstruction following breast cancer.

Stephanie Reynolds, D.O., chair of Emergency Medicine at Riverview (right) , is one of many dedicated physicians who provide exceptional care around the clock.

Timothy Hogan, FACHE, regional hospital president for Monmouth County, Meridian Health, and Kelli O’Brien, MBA, R.D., and chief operating officer at Riverview, review plans for the brand new oncology center due to open in the summer of 2016.


Despite industry trends, Southern Ocean Medical Center experienced strong financial performance throughout the past year and succeeded in adding private patient rooms and additional staff to improve the delivery of care. The extraordinary efforts of the team didn’t go unnoticed, as several programs received accolades for their quality outcomes, and relationships with members of the medical staff continued to be a critical component to success.

Enhanced Resources for Booming Demands

With an increase of 7.5 percent in admissions and 17 percent inpatient surgeries over the prior year, strong financial performance throughout 2015 enabled Southern Ocean Medical Center to make significant changes to care delivery. The medical center opened the second floor Medical/Surgical Unit, which created 18 private rooms. This contributed to great results in throughput for patients being admitted and a decrease in Emergency Department wait times as well as patients who would have left without treatment. Additionally, through special recruitment efforts, Southern Ocean welcomed 57 nurses and 51 support team members, which truly improved the delivery of care and helped to improve the patient experience.

Recognition for Extraordinary Efforts

Receiving third-party endorsements is always a nice reminder of the great care that is delivered. Southern Ocean received accolades including the American Heart Association Get With The Guidelines® Silver Award for Stroke, recertification of the Cardiac Rehabilitation Program, accreditation for the Center for Sleep Disorders in Toms River, and a deficiency-free annual survey of the Transitional Care Unit.

Physician Contributions a Key Factor to Success

In addition to having an amazing hospital team, Southern Ocean’s medical staff is a critical component to success. In 2015, the Medical Executive Committee implemented computerized physician order entry (CPOE) and reached record utilization rates. Medical expertise such as that of orthopedic surgeon Stanley Michael, M.D., resulted in his appointment as medical director of the Center for Joint Health, and brought new attention to the anterior approach for hip replacement. The Medical Center expanded its footprint in the Toms River area with the opening of a new Bariatric Weight Loss Center, furthering the reach of Southern Ocean’s skilled surgeons and one of the premier service offerings.

Melissa Gallagher, R.N., is just one of many outstanding nurses who are continually focused on providing the best care each and every day.

Stanley P. Michael, M.D., medical director of the Joint Replacement Program, provides unparalleled medical expertise.

Southern Ocean Medical Center President Joe Coyle and Kim Frazee, FACHE, MHA, LNHA, vice president of Physician and Business Development, kicked off the Medical Center’s cancer expansion last August.

BuildingHOPE at Southern Ocean

In September of 2016, Southern Ocean Medical Center will expand its cancer care program to accommodate multi-disciplinary care and technological capabilities that will better serve our oncology patients and their families. Meridian Cancer Care at Southern Ocean Medical Center will provide a state-of-the-art healing environment of over 16,000 square feet for outpatient treatment and services, and will feature the newest radiation technologies (including a TrueBeam™ linear accelerator), 20 new infusion stations in a comfortable healing environment, and dedicated and experienced medical professionals.


With several programs and services receiving accreditations and praise from experts both in-state and on a national level, Bayshore Community Hospital continued to make a name for itself this year. With a focus on the patient experience, providing the highest level of care, and the implementation of industry best practices, Bayshore saw fantastic patient outcomes and, as a result, continues to be an incredible support for its community members.

Foundation for the Future

Throughout 2015, Bayshore invested in facility upgrades that are often invisible to patients and guests, but essential to maintaining a highly functioning hospital. Changes included renovations to Same-Day Surgery, the Operating Room, Intensive Care Unit patient rooms, and common areas such as public restrooms. Bayshore also upgraded and replaced equipment such as the chiller, air handler unit, and fire suppression system, as well as changed lighting to more energy-efficient bulbs. Additionally, the hospital expanded emergency power throughout the facility, purchased new lab analyzers, and added remote monitoring of room pressure for the OR and Sterilization Department. All of these changes set the foundation for bigger projects to come, including the construction of a state-of-the-art Emergency Department estimated to open in 2019.

Time is Muscle

When someone is experiencing a cardiac event such as a heart attack, every minute counts. The moment a patient arrives at the hospital, a clock is started to measure the amount of time it takes to get that patient to the catheterization lab to begin interventional treatment such as an angioplasty. This time is known as door-to-balloon time. Across the country, the average is 90 minutes. Thanks to the dedication of Bayshore’s physicians, nurses, security personnel, and others, Bayshore is beating that time with an average of 47 minutes. In fact, Bayshore’s time is so good that in 2015, the hospital received the American Heart Association Mission: Lifeline® Silver Award for best-practice guidelines and data-based quality measures.

Aiming High and Delivering

Hospitals are judged by the public in a variety of ways. One such way is through patient satisfaction scores, called HCAHPS, which measures a patient’s perception of their hospital experience. Across the country, getting high scores is a challenge. Patients are more knowledgeable than ever about their care and expectations are high. That’s why it’s even more impressive that Bayshore’s results are above average for care in several departments, including the Emergency Department, Center for Wound Healing, and Women’s Center.

The beautiful Mitchell-Vassar Lobby at Bayshore provides a welcoming first impression to patients and visitors alike.

Shaddy Younan, M.D. is part of a team of dedicated cardiologists who have helped Bayshore beat the national average in door-to-balloon times.


The past year was filled with grand openings and accolades for Raritan Bay Medical Center – Old Bridge and Raritan Bay Medical Center – Perth Amboy, the newest members of the Meridian Health family. Both campuses grew with the addition of several new buildings and services. Integrative Health Services are now in full bloom at Raritan Bay – Perth Amboy with the addition of The Learning Garden education program. From accreditations, awards, and certificates, to national attention on resident physician research, Raritan Bay has spilled onto the scene making some serious waves in medicine.

A New Health Care Destination for Central JerseyProviding expert medical care and outpatient services in a welcoming and comfortable environment, Raritan Bay – Old Bridge opened its 92,000-square-foot Medical and Surgical Pavilion in 2015. Located at Two Hospital Plaza and connected to the main hospital, this exciting new health care destination for Central Jersey features a variety of services making it a one-stop shop for the community. Patients can make an appointment with a physician, receive outpatient testing and surgery, and take advantage of support and education services all in one location. Pre-admission testing, Laboratory Services, and advanced diagnostic imaging, including MRI, 160-Slice CT, nuclear, X-ray, and ultrasound, are all provided.

The pavilion is home to Raritan Bay’s Center for Women, which also has a location at Raritan Bay – Perth Amboy, The Surgery Center at Old Bridge, Joslin Diabetes Center, five hospital operating suites, plus ample patient recovery and family waiting areas. The Center for Women focuses on women’s specific health needs and provides 3D mammography. A hospital-based joint venture between Raritan Bay and more than 20 surgeons, the surgery center provides same-day surgery services. And, the Joslin Diabetes Center provides comprehensive and world-class care, and education and support services for all types of diabetes and endocrine conditions. On-site physician practices include specialties in Cardiology, Dentistry, Nephrology, Orthopedic and Spine Care, Family Medicine, Urology, and more.

Being Healthy Starts with Eating HealthyPurple potatoes, eggplants, spicy lettuce, collard greens, peppers, cherry tomatoes, and more have made their way to patients, volunteer gardeners, team members, and others as part of The Learning Garden at Raritan Bay – Perth Amboy. The container garden education program began last summer with the goal of providing hands-on education for children and adults about the basics of gardening and the importance of healthy produce and proper nutrition. Raritan Bay’s Integrative Health Services spearheaded the creation of the garden through a donation from the Medical Center’s medical staff, with help from numerous team members and community volunteers under the guidance of Master Gardener Connie Elek. Integrative health focuses on holistic, complementary therapy and care to achieve optimal health and well-being. The Learning Garden serves many purposes and provides an opportunity for everyone to not only learn the basics of gardening and nutrition, but also get some exercise, socialize, and empower them to create their own gardens at home. Plans are underway to continue The Learning Garden at Perth Amboy and expand the program to include an additional garden at Raritan Bay – Old Bridge in 2016.

Perth Amboy school district student volunteers lend a hand with The Learning Garden.

Recognized for ExcellenceRaritan Bay has received a number of awards recognizing the excellent health care they provide. The Joslin Diabetes Center earned American Diabetes Association recognition for having a quality diabetes self-management education program, and the Institute for Weight Loss was accredited as a Comprehensive Bariatric Center by the Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program. Raritan Bay’s Emergency Medical Services was also the recipient of the American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline® Silver Award for implementing quality improvement measures for the treatment of patients experiencing severe heart attacks. Raritan Bay also received the American Stroke Association’s Get With The Guidelines®-Stroke Silver Plus Quality Achievement Award, recognizing the Medical Center’s commitment to providing stroke patients with the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines.

In the Surgery Center at Old Bridge, from left, is director of Nursing Desiree Rios, R.N., CNOR; PACU nurse Gail Hawksby, R.N.; pre-op nurse Cristina Rodriquez, BSN, R.N.; and board-certified foot and ankle surgeon Ujjwal Datta, DPM.

Diabetic friendly dishes can be delicious, as Wellness Consultant Heather Cunningham, MS, R.D., CNSC, (left) and Nurse Educator Samantha Florio, R.N., demonstrate in the Joslin Diabetes Center, Affiliate at Raritan Bay kitchen.


Your Life, Your Wishes: It All Begins with a Conversation

Research shows that while more than 90 percent of people think it’s important to talk about their loved ones’ and their own wishes for end-of-life care, less than 30 percent of people have had these discussions.

That’s why Meridian Health, along with the six other health systems that comprise AllSpire Health Partners, has undertaken an initiative to promote advance care planning, aiming to make it an integral part of how individuals think about their current well-being and future health care wishes. Our goal is to educate our communities to reframe the perceptions of advance care planning as part of responsible living rather than something reserved for end of life.

This year, coinciding with National Healthcare Decisions Day in April, AllSpire introduced a new Web site, YourLifeYourWishes.com, along with supporting social media resources like a blog, Facebook page, and Twitter account. YourLifeYourWishes.com provides tools that will help our community members have the conversation about their goals and wishes each step of the way, so that they can be ready for anything at any time. Our message is simple: By having a meaningful conversation about your health care decisions, you’ll be providing an incredible gift to those around you who would want nothing more than to honor your life and your wishes.

Bada Boom! Our Epic Journey Began, Just Like That

After an extensive evaluation, Meridian Health selected Epic as the vendor of choice for our new enterprise information system. Meridian signed a contract with Epic last September to implement a completely integrated suite of clinical, financial, and administrative products across the enterprise, replacing our core systems such as Soarian, Invision, GE Centricity, and many others.

Our decision to implement Epic systems enterprise-wide is another step in our journey towards full interoperability throughout the continuum of care to meet our vision of one record, one patient at Meridian. The implementation of one integrated system will ensure efficiencies and improve the sharing of information across the organization, while reducing the room for patient errors and moving us one step closer to creating our desired culture of high reliability. There is no doubt that Epic will provide a strong foundation that will better position Meridian for future growth.

Kina’ole: Meridian’s Transformation to High Reliability

High reliability is reducing errors through the practice of mindfulness and shared accountability. It is not a new concept, but its adoption in health care is only among the innovative. Meridian is one of those innovators, having begun our journey to become a high reliability organization (HRO) in 2015.

So, what is a high reliability organization? It is an organization that is involved in a complex and high-risk environment that delivers exceptionally safe and consistently high-quality service/care over time. No doubt you have interacted with high reliability organizations in your travels – literally.

The airline industry has practiced high reliability for decades. Though a pilot may be on his thousandth flight, he diligently runs through his pre-flight checklist. This tool helps him to be in the moment, be mindful, focus only on the task at hand, and recognize potential for error before it might happen. Further, his co-pilot and flight crew feel very comfortable offering feedback or questioning a decision they feel might cause error or, even worse, harm.

These same principles can be applied to health care. Just like the airline industry, health care safety and quality can be improved through the practice of mindfulness, the use of tools and checklists that turn behaviors into habits, and a preoccupation with failure so strong that the team always feels comfortable and supportive in speaking up to prevents errors.

At Meridian, we feel the spirit of our HRO transformation can be captured in one word: Kina’ole. This Hawaiian word is defined as “the highest form of flawlessness or excellence.” Kina’ole also means “doing the right thing, in the right way, at the right time, in the right place, with the right person, for the right reason, with the right feeling, the first time.” We can think of no better way to describe our goal.

System Updates

It’s Good to Be Connected to Care that is Convenient

Through a range of primary care, emergency, and specialty services, and over 100 locations across the region, Meridian has it all connected. We continue to expand our convenient care locations throughout Monmouth and Ocean counties to improve access for our communities.

Meridian After Hours offers quick health care solutions for non-emergent needs providing medical care during evenings, weekends, and holidays by a nurse practitioner. This past year, we expanded our growth into Monmouth County with facilities opening in Manalapan and Oakhurst, joining our two Ocean County locations in Brick and Toms River.

Our Urgent Care Centers offer quick health care solutions for more emergent, non-life threatening conditions and provide health care during evenings, weekends, and holidays by physicians and a staff of clinicians. There are currently four centers located in Brick, Jackson, Ship Bottom, and Toms River. Each of these facilities has been certified and has received the prestigious accreditation from the Urgent Care Association of America (UCAOA). The UCAOA offers the only existing Urgent Care accreditation nationally, recognizing the highest of quality and safety standards for care provided. In 2016, we’ll welcome two new Urgent Care facilities in Freehold and Lanoka Harbor.


Advancing Medicine through Research and Education

An academic medical center provides patients and the community with health care for everyday needs and the most specialized services for complex diseases, illnesses and injuries; teaches generations of health care professionals with an eye on training the right mix of providers for tomorrow’s needs; and engages in research that improves lives. Between making headlines and publishing works in esteemed journals, to leading the way in clinical trials, the academic team has certainly been making waves on the research and education scene.

Examples of notable feats and achievements include:

• Rachael Polis, D.O., an Obstetrics and Gynecology resident graduate, was the lead author of “Yoga in Pregnancy,” an article published last November. Her research was conducted while she was a resident at Jersey Shore University Medical Center and has been featured on National Public Radio and promoted by Reuters, USA Today, WebMD, and other major media outlets. It was also published in Obstetrics and Gynecology, the most influential journal in the field.

• Research projects and related publications by Alexander Shifrin, M.D., regarding the diagnosis and treatment of medullary thyroid cancer, led to revised guidelines by the American Thyroid Association, as well as development and acceptance of a standardized test for genetic testing.

• Ashish Patel, M.D., and the clinical research team at Jersey Shore were one of the top five sites nationally for enrollment to study the FLEXION catheter for atrial flutter ablation. Dr. Patel successfully treated the first non-research patient shortly after FDA approval, making Jersey Shore the third hospital in the U.S. to make this technology available.

• Research by Raritan Bay Medical Center resident Ping Zhang. M.D., Ph.D., was presented at the 2015 Internal Medicine Meeting of the American College of Physicians. Dr. Zhang was assisted by fellow residents Qiang Nai, M.D., and Associate Chief Resident Nilma Malik, M.D., on his abstract titled “Statin and Acquired Vitamin B12 Deficiency.” Dr. Zhang’s research suggested a link between statin usage and B12 deficiency, an essential vitamin for normal bodily function. His presentation is being developed into a larger scale study involving other educational institutions to consolidate his findings. The goal is to ensure that millions of patients nationwide using statins for high-cholesterol, cardiovascular, or cerebrovascular diseases use B12 as an adjunctive therapy.

As a progressive organization, Meridian is also working to bring even more clinical trials to the communities we serve. In 2015, Meridian Health enrolled more than 2,000 patients in clinical trials.

Finally, Ocean Medical Center has received approval to establish a Graduate Medical Education (GME) program. It will require a few years to implement, but it puts Ocean on a track to create a future training ground for family medicine and

psychiatric physicians. These are specialties that are in short supply and will be new areas of focus to complement the GME programs at Jersey Shore and Hackensack, as well as the relationship with Seton Hall Medical School.

Introducing Meridian Medical Group

At Meridian, we know that it is important that we continue to find ways to attract — and keep — patients by offering not only quality care but convenient access and a consistent patient experience. Recently, our primary, specialty, and faculty practices that previously comprised Meridian Practice Institute, were organized under one unified and recognizable brand — Meridian Medical Group. Meridian Medical Group brings together more than 300 primary care and specialty physicians to care for patients across Monmouth, Ocean and Middlesex counties. We are helping to define a future for our community where there is greater access, more convenience, and even better coordination across the continuum. Quality is also key. Twenty-eight of the Meridian Medical Group Primary Care practices and five OB/GYN practices have attained Level-3 Patient-Centered Medical Home and Patient-Centered Specialty Practices recognition from NCQA. Additionally, more than 50 of Meridian’s providers have been nationally recognized by NCQA for diabetes and/or heart attack/stroke care.

Redefining Health Care

The Population Health team of nurses, coaches, and data analysts are an extension of the Meridian Medical Group practices. The team has been instrumental in implementing a Chronic Care Management Program and a Transitions in Care strategy which includes phone calls to patients upon discharge from the hospital and a pilot done in conjunction with Meridian At Home and Ocean Medical Center. These programs support the physicians and local practice teams while providing the patient with an advocate who can navigate the health care system and provide direction when needed. In the Transitions in Care pilot, a nurse visits the patient’s home for medication reconciliation and helps complete an online diary to record daily weight, temperature, heart rate, blood pressure, and pain information for 30 days. The data is reviewed centrally to identify any significant changes that may require intervention.

Meridian’s Chronic Care Management program was developed to support a Medicare initiative focused on maintaining long-term health and well-being and reducing readmissions for patients with multiple chronic diseases. Once a month, our clinical team of population health nurses and coaches follows patients to review the care plan established between the patient and their physician. During a 20-minute phone call, the patient is free to discuss any care-related concerns such as coordinating physician appointments or laboratory testing. Pre-defined protocols were developed for six chronic disease diagnoses including atrial fibrillation, Coronary Arteries Disease (CAD), diabetes, hypertension, heart failure, and osteoporosis. The coaches use these established protocols to provide guidance and advice to patients on next steps based on patient feedback. The information discussed during the call is then entered into the patient’s electronic medical record to enhance coordination between the physician and the clinical team to ensure consistent quality care is provided.

Grant Brings Hope for the Future to Families Touched by Autism

First Lady Mary Pat Christie and former Health Commissioner Mary E. O’Dowd were welcomed to Jersey Shore University Medical Center last June where they announced $4.4 million in grants to establish Autism Medical Homes and to advance research in the understanding, prevention, evaluation, and treatment of the biologically based disorder. Jersey Shore and Hackensack University Medical Center were fortunate grant recipients. Each of the hospitals will receive approximately $400,000 over two years. Funding will be used to launch an Autism Care Coordination Program at K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital. The Autism Medical Homes pilot project is designed to improve health outcomes for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) by bringing together primary care providers, subspecialists, and ASD providers to treat the whole person.

We’re hopeful that the implementation of medical homes for autism will alleviate some of the challenges faced each day by families caring for children with autism and provide tangible improvements in the health care setting. New Jersey is a national leader in early intervention and education of children with autism which affects about one in 45 children across the Garden State.

Plans are reviewed for HOPE Tower’s new dedicated cancer and clinical academic centers.


Meridian Health Village at Jackson recently celebrated the second anniversary of its initial opening in March 2014, when the much-anticipated Meridian Fitness Center welcomed its first members. Since that time, over 25 medical groups have “turned on the lights” representing over 20 medical specialties, and almost 100 physicians seeing patients in the facility. In the past year, all of the major medical services originally planned for the facility have opened on the main and lower levels of the facility including: Urgent Care Center, Imaging Center, Cardiac Rehabilitation and Diagnostics, Meridian Village Pharmacy, Cancer Care Center, Ambulatory Surgery Center, and Lab Services. The facility will be opening the innovative Center for Integrative Health & Medicine soon.

In addition to bringing a new level of care and convenience to Jackson-area residents, Meridian Health Village at Jackson was selected to receive the prestigious Monmouth-Ocean Development Council’s 2016 Economic Development Award recognizing the commitment and impact Meridian Health and Meridian Health Village have had on the economic vitality and, of the two-county area, investment in local communities and businesses, creation of jobs, and contributing to the overall health and well-being of residents and the area.

A Full House at Jackson

The Meridian Village Pharmacy offers unique convenience for Meridian Health Village at Jackson visitors and patients, Fitness Center members, and local residents, making it easier and faster to

pick up prescriptions and medications. The Pharmacy can also now provide comprehensive specialty drug services and delivery anywhere in Monmouth and Ocean counties.

Meridian Fitness & Wellness offers over 28,000 square feet of fitness space and amenities, including spin rooms, an Olympic-sized pool, a kids area, a juice bar, state-of-the-art fitness equipment, and a variety of group fitness classes, including yoga, pilates, Zumba, and more. Members also benefit from personal and small group trainings that suit every age and fitness level.

Meridian Health Village at Jackson is an award-winning 150,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art medical facility that offers both private health care services and services that are traditionally limited to locations within hospitals all under one roof in an easily accessible environment.

Meridian Health Village at Jackson brings together internal medicine/family practices, women’s and children’s health, and medical and surgical specialties all in a single destination, offering outstanding convenience for our community members.


Home is Where Your Care Is

Meridian At Home continued its leadership in providing a full continuum of exceptional home care services, programs, and products, as well as being an innovator in supporting new models of care to reduce readmissions, population health initiatives, and participating in national demonstration projects.

As part of a collaborative effort with Meridian Health’s ACO and efforts to reduce readmissions, Meridian At Home introduced a program that allowed patients discharged from the hospital to leave for home with the Meridian Care on Call Now medical alert and assistance technology. This pilot program put medical assistance just a click away through the use of a pendant, has provided follow-up phone calls, and led to costs savings and reductions in readmissions during the initial weeks after release from the hospital.

Meridian At Home also introduced a specialty Orthopedic Program for same-day surgery and joint replacement patients to coordinate home rehabilitation therapy. This specialized program allows patients to receive therapy immediately after surgery in the comfort of their home, and return to daily activities sooner and at lower cost.

Meridian Hospice continued its commitment to advancing hospice care, and was selected as one of only 140 hospice organizations across the country to participate in the Medicare Care Choices Model demonstration project. The project, which will include Meridian Hospice participation in 2017, will allow patients facing advanced illness to continue to be actively treated by their physicians, while also receiving palliative care from hospice providers. This Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) demonstration project, and Meridian’s involvement, may revolutionize how medical treatment and hospice care can work interdependently.

iMPak Health Forms Collaborative Agreement with HP

One of the greatest opportunities to improve clinical outcomes is thought to exist in the period of time “in between” care… in between doctor’s visits, Emergency Room visits, and hospital stays. The emergence of mobile health has been based on leveraging mobile technology to fill in the gaps that have historically existed as a result of the disconnectedness between providers and patients during the “in between” period. iMPak Health recently announced that it entered into a collaborative agreement with Hewlett-Packard to leverage the HP Pro Slate 10 EE G1 Healthcare Tablet as a part of its mobile strategy. The immediate value to iMPak Health is the great performance and rugged features the HP Pro Slate 10 EE G1 adds to the Kraken medication management and journal symptom management solutions. In addition, it delivers powerful computing capability enabling it to offer patient-tailored “solutions” for tracking health and providing timely and responsive health-related content. The initial projects have focused around pediatric patients suffering from asthma, end-stage renal disease, and patients being discharged from the hospital after open-heart procedures.

Shore Rehabilitation Institute Achieves CARF Accreditation

Shore Rehabilitation Institute earned accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) in recognition of the facility’s outstanding Inpatient Rehabilitation Programs for both Stroke Services and Brain Injury. Shore Rehabilitation has been committed to achieving and exceeding quality measures put forth by CARF, a national organization that establishes guidelines and high standards for quality of care. Each year, quality measures are reviewed and new standards are developed to keep pace with changing conditions and current consumer needs. The facility was one of only three percent of rehabilitation facilities surveyed that met all standards, joining only a handful of CARF-accredited Brain Injury rehabilitation providers in the state. This recognition extends through August of 2017.

At A Glance

Partner Company Accomplishments

• Shore Rehabilitation Institute named one of the Best Places to Work In New Jersey in 2015 by NJBiz

• Sandra Elliott, vice president of Consumer Technology and Services, recognized as one of the Top 40 Healthcare Transformers by Medical Marketing & Media

• Meridian Fitness & Wellness opened three new locations in Brick, Mays Landing, and Edge Water, and reached more than 20,000 members

• The Alert Ambulance fleet drove more than 2.5 million miles

• Shore Care safely performed more than 75,000 hours of staff relief

Mark Pass, M.D., department chair of Geriatrics at Jersey Shore and Ocean, is a passionate advocate and champion for providing care and services for the senior population.

Meridian Fitness and Wellness member Jean Marie Gillen works out with Maureen Onorato, a weight-loss coach at the Hazlet location.


With support from the local community, Meridian Health Affiliated Foundations raised more than $21 million in 2015 (not including over $8 million additional money raised through public grants, the highest total in our Foundations’ history). These funds were utilized to launch and enhance several incredible programs at Meridian Health as well as support facility upgrades and expansions. In fact, three of our Foundation boards approved the transfer of significant funds to help renovate patient rooms in the upcoming years, designating $8.2 million to Riverview Medical Center, $2.4 million to Jersey Shore University Medical Center, and $4.8 million to Ocean Medical Center. This will have a tremendous impact on enhancing the patient experience.

Meridian Health Affiliated Foundations encompasses all the Foundations for Meridian Health, including: Jersey Shore University Medical Center Foundation, Ocean Medical Center Foundation, Riverview Medical Center Foundation, Southern Ocean Medical Center Foundation, Bayshore Community Hospital Foundation, Raritan Bay Medical Center Foundation, and fundraising efforts for K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital, Meridian At Home Hospice, and Meridian Partner Companies. To learn more, visit MeridianHealth.com/GIVE.

In 2015, Meridian Health Affiliated Foundations launched Giving Heals, our first ever system-wide campaign. Giving Heals has funding priorities at each Meridian campus in the areas of:

• BuildingHOPE in Cancer Care• Improving Clinical Outcomes• Enhancing the Patient Experience• Broadening Clinical Research and Academic Programs

The comprehensive campaign is focused on the ideology that giving is much more than an annual obligation. Overwhelming evidence proves that generous behaviors not only help the recipient of a gift, but giving is good for your body, mind and soul. Giving Heals.

Donors Make a DifferenceMeridian Hospitals CorporationFor the Year Ended December 31, 2015 ($ millions) 2015 2014 2013

Operating Revenues $ 1,551,344 $ 1,398,989 $ 1,295,909

Operating Expenses $ 1,390,199 $ 1,290,436 $ 1,233,131

Gain from Current Operations $ 161,145 $ 108,553 $ 62,778

Financials

Inpatient Admissions 69,726

Births 4,723

Patient Days 355,434

Average Length of Stays (in days) 5.10

Emergency Department Visits 271,583

Surgeries 43,003

Cardiac Surgeries 790

Cardiovascular Lab Procedures 17,535

Jersey Shore University Medical Center

Southern Ocean Medical Center

Bayshore Community Hospital

Ocean Medical Center

Riverview Medical Center

K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital

Donors’ Gifts at Work:

Meridian Health Affiliated Foundations’ development team works closely with hospital administration and clinicians to identify needs that can enhance the care provided to our patients. Below are just a few examples of new technology and equipment upgrades brought to Meridian Health in 2015 thanks to the support of our donors.

Fitch Ratings Upgrades Meridian to A+ RatingIn 2015, Fitch Ratings upgraded Meridian Health to an ‘A+’ from an ‘A’. The upgrade reflects Meridian’s strong financial performance over a three-year historical period. During this time, most of Meridian’s financial ratios have exceeded Fitch ‘A’ category medians, and unrestricted cash and investment grew by over 20 percent. Fitch believes Meridian’s solid operating performance is supported by our integrated operating platform and large clinical footprint in our service area.

Strategic InvestmentsEpic IT Replacement System $ 94.3M

Jersey Shore University Medical Center Academic Building & Oncology Expansion $ 265M

Oncology Expansion at Ocean Medical Center/Riverview Medical Center/ Southern Ocean Medical Center/Bayshore Community Hospital $ 77.9M

Ocean Medical Center Med/Surg Expansion $ 18.5M


Investing in Community Health

At Meridian Health, our mission to improve the health status of the communities we serve is at the heart of our charitable roots. Providing the community support for managing chronic conditions and access to reliable health information, as well as opportunities to participate in health promotion activities, are central to our goal of improving community health and well-being. To this end, our hospitals actively collaborate with community partners such as: schools, senior centers, places of worship, local non-profit organizations, health departments, employers, and others on a variety of health initiatives.

In 2015, Meridian devoted more than $128 million in community benefits. An estimated 100,000 community members participate in a health promotion activity each year. These programs include: preventive health screenings, support groups, health education seminars, and presentations, as well as health awareness events. They are all delivered by a dedicated team of health care professionals and physicians, many of whom volunteer their time to educate our community on health topics focused on preventing disease, managing chronic conditions, and improving overall quality of life. Many of our programs can be delivered in both English and Spanish, and language interpreters are made available as needed. Meridian’s Community Outreach team has received special training in health literacy as well as cultural competence.

Identifying Community Health Needs

Meridian Health plays a lead role in working with many different organizations throughout Monmouth and Ocean counties to identify and address the health issues that impact our community the most. This collaborative effort is referred to as a Community Health Needs Assessment and is available online.

In 2015, Meridian Health embarked on a strategic process of reassessing the area’s health care needs. We surveyed over 1,000 households in Monmouth and Ocean counties to gather local residents’ views of their community’s most critical health needs. In addition, we invited input from public health experts, physicians, and community and business leaders, as well as analyzed public health data. Findings from the assessment highlighted several health concerns for our community including: access to health care services, as well as: cancer, diabetes, heart disease and stroke, injury and violence, mental health, nutrition, physical activity and weight, respiratory diseases, and substance abuse.

With the Community Health Needs Assessment as our guide, Meridian prepares its annual community benefits plan, part of our overall strategic plan, aligning activities and resources toward those priority health needs as well as engaging a variety of community organizations for collaboration on interventions. Each hospital has prepared an implementation strategy that contains the specific programs and resources that will be deployed against each health priority.

Community Benefit Report Triumphing Over Adversity

At just 4 years old, Molly’s world became a little bit darker when she was diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa, a rare retinal disease causing loss of vision. Over the years, as Molly’s vision deteriorated, her confidence and optimism only strengthened; but not without struggle or adversity. As a student she was tormented by bullies, and suffered from depression and anxiety. It wasn’t until she found the strength to face her challenges, and the courage to reach out to others, that she came to see the light and find hope.

Mental health and physical health are closely connected. Mental illnesses, such as anxiety or depression, affect a person’s ability to participate in health promoting behaviors. In turn, problems with physical health, such as chronic diseases, can have an impact on mental health and decrease a person’s ability to participate in treatment or recovery. According to Meridian’s most recent community health needs assessment, those experiencing “fair” or “poor” mental health has significantly increased over the past 10 years.

Over 250 community members participated in this inspiring and educational program made possible through funding from the Mitchell Vassar Bright Future Legacy. In addition to the inspirational message from award-winning motivational speaker Molly Burke, community members were provided with tips and techniques to overcoming adversity and ways to deal with a major life change.

Charity Care $ 21,300,000

Unreimbursed Medicare $ 46,400,000

Unreimbursed Medicaid $ 29,600,000

Subsidized Health Services $ 1,200,000

Cash & In-Kind Contributions $ 600,000

Health Professionals Education $ 27,100,000

Community Health Improvement Services $ 2,000,000

Meridian’s 2015 Community Benefits: $128 million

Light in a Time of Darkness

Molly Burke, who was diagnosed at age four with a rare retinal disease called Retinitis Pigmentosa, spoke at last November’s Vassar Vision Event in Aberdeen. The evening was made possible by the Mitchell Vassar Bright Future Legacy.


Community Advisory Committees

Meridian convenes several Community Advisory Committees whose mission is to assist us in identifying and addressing local health care needs, including health care disparities affecting communities of color, the underserved, and those with special needs. Committee members represent a cross section of the community in terms of age, gender, religion, ethnicity, interests, and professional status. Currently, more than 150 people from the surrounding area serve as members of Meridian’s Community Advisory Committees.

Preventing Disease Through Early Detection

Nearly 40,000 preventive health screenings were performed in our community in 2015, including; AngioScreen™ stroke risk assessments, blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose, BMI, memory, hearing, diabetic retinopathy, breast, colon-rectal cancer, skin cancer, and more. Participants receive individualized testing from medical professionals and are counseled by nurse educators who provide information about their results and referrals for follow-up care when necessary.

Partners in Cancer Control

Meridian partners with several community organizations who share the mission of reducing New Jersey’s cancer burden and improving health outcomes. Of all cancer cases in New Jersey, female breast cancer accounts for 15 percent, lung 12.6 percent, colorectal 8.7 percent, and skin 5 percent, according to the American Cancer Society. Knowing your risk and early detection are two of the best ways to reduce your risk for cancer.

Meridian’s Every Woman Counts Program, in partnership with Susan G. Komen, will increase annual mammography screenings for low-income, uninsured, and underinsured women in Monmouth and Ocean counties by collaborating with local nonprofit organizations that are successful in engaging hard-to-reach communities such as: the elderly, Hispanic, black, LGBT, undocumented immigrants, and the homeless. Through this collaborative program, culturally and linguistically appropriate breast health education will be provided to 1,400 women, 75 percent of whom will demonstrate an increase in knowledge about breast health. All women will be referred for mammograms and connected with NJCEED, Meridian’s Pink Fund, or Komen grant funds. A total of 400 mammogram vouchers will be distributed and 150 diagnostic screenings will be provided for women who require additional testing due to screening abnormalities. Transportation assistance for mammogram appointments and navigation throughout the continuum of care will also be provided, as needed.

Colon cancer is one of the most preventable and, if detected early, the most treatable forms of cancer. The Ocean Monmouth Health Alliance (OMHA) has set a goal for New Jersey to reach an 80 percent screening rate by 2018 and Meridian is actively participating in this challenge. In 2015, over 1,000 community members attended a seminar, 530 accepted a take-home stool test kit, and, of those, 63 resulted in a positive screening. These at-risk individuals were contacted by a nurse navigator who arranged for follow-up care.

The OMHA is a regional chronic disease prevention coalition funded by the Office of Cancer Control and Prevention, part of the New Jersey Department of Health. Meridian partners with OMHA on their annual Choose Your Cover skin cancer screening at the beach. In 2015, we performed 398 screenings at beaches and other sites in Monmouth and Ocean counties. Since 2008, the program has screened over 7,000 people throughout the state and is a national model.

Managing Chronic Disease

Take Control of Your Health is an evidence-based chronic disease self-management program. Complementing a physician’s plan of care, this educational program offers participants tools, resources and support to live a healthier life. Studies have shown that participants who complete the training report improved health status and quality of life, had greater energy and fewer social limitations, as well as reduced hospitalizations and fewer emergency room visits.

Providing Opportunities to Learn

Over 10,000 children were educated on how to eat right, stay fit, be safe, and act responsibly through our Pawsitive Action Program. Our children’s health education programs include classroom-based presentations from The Pawsitive Action Team, including Doctor Bernard, Hopscotch, and Picatso, who are mascots for K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital at Jersey Shore University Medical Center. Other programs include: Hands-only CPR training, SafeSitter® babysitting certification, asthma awareness and management, injury prevention programs, distracted driving, and sports and concussion injury prevention, among others.

Providing broad CPR training to the community has been part of Meridian’s educational offerings for years. In 2015, Meridian taught nearly 20,000 individuals, which includes students, health care workers, fire fighters, police, teachers, EMTs, and community members. The Community of LifeSavers program trained more than 5,000 students from 21 schools. Our community now has an army of rescuers who are ready, willing, and able to put their skills in action in the event of an emergency.

In addition, Meridian is proud to offer support through charitable donations to a host of worthy, local not-for-profit organizations who share in our mission to improve the health status of the community. Meridian also encourages our leaders, physicians, and team members to serve on a variety of boards and community groups dedicated to improving the quality of life in our neighborhoods. As a socially conscious member of the community, Meridian focuses its charitable giving on the areas that support or are aligned with our charitable mission. In 2015, Meridian provided $600,000 in cash and in-kind support.

In support of Paint the Town Pink, 785 people linked their pinkies to break the Guinness World Record for the longest pinky promise chain. The promise was for annual mammography, and for every single person in the chain to remind every woman they know to get their mammogram.

The Community of LifeSavers Program has trained more than 5,000 students.

Doctor Bernard, along with Kenneth N. Sable, M.D., president of Jersey Shore University Medical Center,

visits Barclay Brook Elementary in Monroe Township.


Training the Next Generation of Health Care ProvidersTraining the next generation of health care providers is vital to providing a foundation for sound health in our community. Meridian encourages the development of physicians, nurses, medical technologists, and those entering allied health professions by supporting their education and offering clinical experience in our hospitals. Through our extensive Community Outreach Program, medical students and residents also regularly participate in health promotion activities where they learn to recognize and identify community needs and health disparities, improve health literacy communication skills and cultural sensitivity, and foster an appreciation for population health management. In 2015, Meridian provided $27.1 million in benefits, which helps support medical training.

Caring for All Members of the CommunityAs a not-for-profit health care provider, Meridian Health is the regional leader in providing innovative and accessible health care programs and services to individuals, families, and communities throughout Monmouth and Ocean counties. Everyone deserves access to quality care regardless of their ability to pay. In 2015, Meridian provided $21.3 million in charity care and other uncompensated care, serving as a health care safety net for our community’s most vulnerable populations. In addition, Meridian dedicated $1.2 million in subsidizing vital health services such as outpatient dialysis, behavioral health services, and family health clinics.

Through a grant in partnership with the FoodBank of Monmouth and Ocean counties, Meridian Health employs 24 certified application counselors who help to improve access to care through health insurance and financial counseling. Over 16,000 individuals were provided with navigation services for financial assistance including charity care, family care, and financial counseling.

Staying ConnectedIt’s never been easier to connect with Meridian. Opportunities to learn can be found at our hospitals, conference centers, and Meridian Fitness & Wellness locations, as well as right in your own community – the local library, senior center, school, employer, and now even at the shopping mall. In fact, more than 47,000 people attended an educational seminar in 2015.

Meridian regularly publishes two free consumer magazines – HealthViews and KidViews – to educate and inform residents of Monmouth and Ocean counties on timely and relevant health topics. The magazines contain Meridian’s calendar of events where residents can find free community education and screening programs, as well as a variety of health and wellness tips.

Meridian’s family of Web sites offer an extensive, free health library (in English and Spanish) and attract nearly two million people each year. Online visitors can take a health assessment quiz, learn about diagnostic and surgical procedures, find a doctor, and register for a class or health screening and more.

Finally, Meridian provides free 24/7 call center services to the community to locate physicians, health care services, and support groups, as well as to register for health education and screening programs. In 2015, the call center handled nearly 35,000 calls.

Meridian Health Board of Trustees

Gordon N. Litwin, Esq. Chairperson

Peter S. Reinhart, Esq. Vice Chairperson

Richard A. Amdur, Esq. Secretary

Alfred J. Schiavetti, Jr. Treasurer

John K. Lloyd, FACHE President

Peter H. Wegener, Esq. Immediate Past Chairperson

Salvatore Inciardi Assistant Secretary

Gregg Azcuy Lynn Bezpalko, D.O. Ivan Brown Norman V. Buttaci Thomas Dolan Martin J. Epstein Peter S. Falvo, Jr., Esq. Cornelius Gallagher, M.D. Luke Kealy, Esq. Steven Lisser, M.D. Michael Lospinuso, M.D. Bonnie Robinson-Gallaro, M.D.

Meridian Hospitals Corporation Board of Trustees

Thomas J. Kononowitz Chairperson

William Lawless, Ph.D. Vice Chairperson

Meredyth R. Armitage Secretary

Joseph Mancini Treasurer

Steven G. Littleson, FACHE President, MHC

Peter S. Reinhart, Esq. Immediate Past Chairperson

Salvatore Inciardi Assistant Secretary

Richard A. Amdur, Esq. Lynn Bezpalko, D.O. Norman V. Buttaci Serena DiMaso, Esq. Kathleen T. Ellis Martin J. Epstein Peter S. Falvo, Jr., Esq. Cornelius Gallagher, M.D. Susan Hassmiller, R.N., Ph.D. Joseph Jankowski Steven Lisser, M.D. Gordon N. Litwin, Esq. John K. Lloyd, FACHE Michael Lospinuso, M.D. Maureen Murphy, Ph.D. Bonnie Robinson-Gallaro, M.D. Said Samra, M.D. Roger Thompson, M.D. Ashokvardhan Veldanda, M.D. Peter H. Wegener, Esq.

Meridian LeadershipMeridian Health Senior Executive Team

John K. Lloyd, FACHE President & Chief Executive Officer

Joseph Lemaire Executive Vice President, Finance

Steven G. Littleson, FACHE Executive Vice President

Patrick R. Young Executive Vice President

Wayne M. Boatwright Vice President Cultural Diversity

Joseph P. Coyle President Southern Ocean Medical Center

Michael R. D’Agnes, FACHE President & Chief Executive Officer Raritan Bay Medical Center

Ann B. Gavzy, Esq. Senior Vice President Legal Affairs & General Counsel

Frank Goldstein, FACHE Vice President Physician Services

Timothy J. Hogan, FACHE Regional Hospital President Monmouth County

Salvatore R. Inciardi, FACHE Senior Vice President Business Development

Dean Q. Lin, MHA, MBA, FACHE, FCPP President Ocean Medical Center

Joseph Mannion, M.D. Chief Information Officer

Russ Molloy, Esq. Senior Vice President Government Relations

Kenneth N. Sable, M.D., MBA, FACEP President Jersey Shore University Medical Center & K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital

Theodore Schlert Senior Vice President Risk Management and Chief Risk Officer

Chrisie A. Scott Vice President Marketing & Corporate Communications

Marty B. Scott, M.D. Senior Vice President and Chief Quality Officer

Maureen Sintich, R.N., MBA, MSN, WHNP-BC, NEA-BC Senior Vice President Nursing

Joseph E. Stampe President Meridian Health Affiliated Foundations

Sherrie String Senior Vice President Human Resources

Rebecca Weber Vice President Information Technology Transformation

Leadership

Meridian continued its exciting relationship with women’s professional soccer team Sky Blue FC as the title sponsor for the team’s 2015 season. Meridian’s orthopedic and rehabilitation staff provides the players, including Christie Rampone, Olympic gold medalist and K. Hovnanian Children's Hospital spokesperson, with high-quality evaluation and treatment as an extension of the great care provided to the community at large. Partnering with Sky Blue also helps Meridian to educate families and fans across the state about the importance of health and wellness and the potential that exist in young girls who are determined and work hard.


Donna Ciufo, DNP, R.N., FNP-BC, NE-BC, CCRN Vice President & Chief Nurse Executive

W. Timothy Foley Vice President Clinical Services & Business Development

Jersey Shore University Medical Center Medical & Dental Staff Leadership

Michael Lospinuso, M.D. Medical & Dental Staff President

Brian Erler, M.D. Vice President

Eric Costanzo, D.O. Secretary

Andrew Blechman, M.D. Treasurer

Ocean Medical Center Leadership Team

Dean Q. Lin, MHA, MBA, FACHE, FCPP President

Vincent Vivona, D.O., J.D. Vice President Clinical Effectiveness & Medical Affairs

Richard A. Epstein, R.Ph., MBA Vice President Strategic Program Development

Cindy Lantz, R.N., MPA Vice President Physician Development

Ellen Angelo, R.N., MSN, CCRN Vice President & Chief Nurse Executive

Marie Foley-Danecker, MSN, R.N., CCRN, NE-BC Senior Manager Patient Services

Ken Souchek, P.T., DPT Senior Manager Rehab Services & Orthopedics

Ocean Medical Center Medical & Dental Staff Leadership

Cornelius Gallagher, M.D. President

Thomas Lake, M.D. Vice President

Walter Wynkoop, M.D. Secretary

Michael Rothberg, M.D. Treasurer

Riverview Medical Center Leadership Team


Kelli O’Brien, R.D., MBA Chief Operating Officer

Kathy McKean, R.N., MPH, FACHE Vice President & Chief Nurse Executive

Joseph Reichman, M.D., FACS Vice President Clinical Effectiveness & Medical Affairs

Sheila Hintze, MBA, SPHR Senior Manager Operations

Rachel Weiss Vice President Physician & Business Development

Riverview Medical Center Medical & Dental Staff Leadership

Steven P. Lisser, M.D. Medical & Dental Staff President

Frank H. Arlinghaus, M.D. Vice President

Negin N. Griffith, M.D. Secretary

John D. Royall, M.D. Treasurer

Southern Ocean Medical Center Leadership Team

Joseph P. Coyle President

Robert Adams, Jr., FACHE Chief Operating Officer

Kim Frazee, FACHE, MHA, LNHA Vice President Physician & Business Development

Myrna Capabianco, R.N., MSN, PCCN, NEA-BC Vice President & Chief Nurse Executive

Theodore G. Zaleski, M.D., J.D. Vice President Clinical Effectiveness & Medical Affairs

Southern Ocean Medical Center Medical & Dental Staff Leadership

Lynn Bezpalko, D.O. President

Rosenio Medenilla, Jr., M.D. Vice President

Shikhar Soni, M.D. Secretary/Treasurer

Thomas Yu, M.D. Immediate Past President

Bayshore Community Hospital Leadership Team


Regina Foley, MSN, MBA, R.N. Chief Operating Officer

Linda Walsh, R.N. Vice President & Chief Nurse Executive

Ian B. Leber, M.D., CPE, MBA, FACEP Vice President Clinical Effectiveness & Medical Affairs

Rachel Weiss Vice President Physician & Business Development

Meridian Health Executive Team

Robbie Brown Vice President Quality and Performance Improvement

Rico Cayetano Vice President Diagnostics and Therapeutics

James Clarke, M.D. Vice President, Medical Director Physician and Quality Network Services

Donald Ellis Vice President Facilities and Planning

Thomas Golaszewski Vice President Resource and Materials Management

Richard Hand Vice President Finance

Navneet Kathuria, M.D. Vice President Population Health

Marilyn Koczan Vice President Patient Financial Services

Susan Labus, MHA, FACHE Vice President Oncology Services

Elizabeth A. Maiorana, MBA, MSN, R.N. Vice President Cardiovascular Services

Joseph A. Miller, Ph.D., FACHE Vice President Neuroscience, Behavioral Health, Orthopedics & Rehabilitation Medicine

Terry M. Manna Vice President Managed Care

Robert Palermo Vice President Finance

Meridian Partner Company & Meridian Health Division Leadership

Ken Aber Vice President Meridian Quality Care

Stefanie Aber Vice President Meridian Quality Care

Stephen Baker President Meridian Quality Care

Karla Cusano Vice President Ambulatory Services

Robert Davis President Alert Ambulance

Sandra Elliott Vice President Consumer Technology and Services

Marci Gietter Interim Executive Director Shore Rehabilitation Institute

Carl M. Marchetti, M.D. President Meridian Practice Institute

Michelle Mendelson Vice President Meridian At Home

Sam Young President Meridian Fitness & Wellness

Hospital and Medical Staff Leadership

Jersey Shore University Medical Center & K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital Leadership Team

Kenneth N. Sable, M.D., MBA, FACEP President Jersey Shore University Medical Center K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital

Andrew Smithson Vice President Operations

Kim Carpenter, M.D. Vice President Clinical Effectiveness & Medical Affairs

David S. Kountz, M.D. Vice President Academic Affairs

Joseph Lemaire Named 2015 CFO of the Year by NJBIZ

Joseph M. Lemaire, executive vice president and chief financial officer, was selected by NJBIZ, a leading New Jersey business journal, for its 2015 CFO of the Year Award. The NJBIZ awards program annually celebrates New Jersey’s financial executives who contribute to the success of New Jersey’s economic growth and stability. Joe was recognized in the “Healthcare Organization” category. In his capacity as CFO, he also oversees Meridian’s partner companies, ranging from home health services to outpatient centers. “This achievement is a testament to the great work and leadership that Joe provides every day,” said John K. Lloyd, FACHE, president and chief executive officer of Meridian Health. “It is leaders like Joe who help make us one of the state’s leading health care systems. We are privileged to have him as an executive and feel he is well deserving of the CFO of the Year award.”


Riverview Medical Center Foundation

Nancy Mulheren Chairperson

Steven Scopellite Vice Chairperson

Peter T. Roselle Secretary

Joseph Albertelli Treasurer

Joseph E. Stampe President

Jennifer L. Smith Senior Executive Director

Peter Grote Development Officer

Hilary DiPiero Mary V. Eisenstadt Negin Noorchashm Griffith, M.D. Timothy J. Hogan, FACHE Charles E. Komar John K. Lloyd, FACHE Brian M. Nelson, Esq. Robert M. Rechnitz Shawn Reynolds John D. Royall, M.D. Richard Saker Jonathan B. Schultz Danielle Sherwood Schultz Benedict J. Torcivia, Jr.

Southern Ocean Medical Center Foundation

Thomas J. Dolan Chairperson

Deborah Mathis, CPA Vice Chairperson

Joan M. Hart Secretary

Joseph O’Donnell Treasurer


Robert E. Wahlers, CFRE Interim Executive Director

Michael Aaron, D.O. Paul Chung, M.D. Joseph P. Coyle John Imperato Sean Kauffman Joseph P. Lattanzi, M.D. John K. Lloyd, FACHE Angela Ominski Kara Schultz, Esq. Robert Stohrer Edward Walters, Jr. Thomas Yu, M.D.

Bayshore Community Hospital Foundation

Serena DiMaso, Esq. Chairperson

Philip J. Scaduto Vice Chairperson

Carol Stillwell Secretary

Martin F. Pfleger, Esq. Treasurer


Jennifer L. Smith Senior Executive Director

Marisa Medina Development Officer

Gregory A. Buontempo Moon Choo Angelo DeRosa Fern Esposito Mollie Giamanco Vincent Hager Timothy J. Hogan, FACHE John K. Lloyd, FACHE Christian Peter Adrian M. Pristas, M.D. Andrij (Dee) Rudko Asaad Samra, M.D. Evaristo Stanziale

Bayshore Community Hospital Medical & Dental Staff Leadership

Bonnie Robinson-Gallaro, M.D. Medical & Dental Staff President

Vasantha Perkari, M.D. Vice President

Said Samra, M.D. Secretary

Georgios Giannakopoulos, M.D. Treasurer

Raritan Bay Medical Center Leadership Team

Michael R. D’Agnes, FACHE President & Chief Executive Officer

Thomas Shanahan, CPA Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer

Joan Harewood, DNP, R.N., NEA-BC Senior Vice President, Nursing Services/Chief Nursing Officer

Michael Ciencewicki, M.D. Senior Vice President, Medical Staff

Ann Marie Henderson, Esq. Senior Vice President, General Counsel

Lynette King-Davis, MPA Vice President, Marketing and Business Development

William Distanislao, MPA Vice President, Operations

Lynne Koller, DNP, R.N. Assistant Vice President, Quality & Risk Management

Micki Patrick, MSN, R.N., NEA-BC Assistant Vice President, Nursing

Raritan Bay Medical Center Medical Staff Leadership

Gregorio J. Guillen, M.D. Medical Staff President

Stuart M. Homer, M.D. Secretary/Treasurer

Foundation Board of Trustees

Meridian Health Foundation

Nancy Mulheren Chairperson

Joseph Berardo, Jr. Vice Chairperson

Thomas J. Dolan Secretary

Peter Cancro Treasurer


Carrie L. Boardwick, CFRE Vice President Philanthropy Operations

Serena DiMaso, Esq. James J. Elek Robert G. Harms Eric M. Kirsch, CFA John K. Lloyd, FACHE Deborah Mathis Timothy P. O’Brien Philip J. Scaduto Steven Scopellite Carol Stillwell

Jersey Shore University Medical Center Foundation

Peter Cancro Chairperson

Eric M. Kirsch, CFA Vice Chairperson

John A. Giunco, Jr. Esq. Secretary

Walter Rob Earle, II Treasurer


Paul Huegel Senior Executive Director

John Toomey Senior Development Officer

Jaclyn Lang Development Officer

Suzanne Citron Steven J. Denholtz J. Scott Ferguson Karen A. Goldblatt John K. Lloyd, FACHE Robert W. Mullen Kenneth D. Nahum, D.O. Richard M. Neibart, M.D. Philip L. Perricone John F. Reinhardt Kenneth N. Sable, M.D., MBA, FACEP Robert L. Sweeney, D.O. Marilyn Trapani William S. Walsh

Pamela Talarico Auxiliary President

Ocean Medical Center Foundation

Joseph Berardo, Jr. Chairperson

Robert G. Harms Vice Chairperson

Holly R. Hubbell-Lonsdale Secretary

A. Dale (Bud) Mayo Treasurer


Matthew Lang Executive Director

Edward J. Dimon, Esq. Harriet Donnelly L. John Dughi, Esq. Thomas R. Lake III, M.D. Dean Q. Lin, MHA, MBA, FACHE, FCPP John K. Lloyd, FACHE Russell J. Lucas Arthur K. Mark, M.D. Peter Mencel, M.D. Matt Regan

Neal Metnick & Susan A. Scherler Auxiliary Presidents

It has been said that leadership is the capacity to translate vision into reality. Together, Steven G. Littleson, FACHE, executive vice president of Meridian Health, and John K. Lloyd, FACHE, president and chief executive officer of Meridian Health, have worked diligently to ensure Meridian has remained resilient in times of change and always well-positioned for future growth and success.


Bayshore Community Hospital Community Advisory Committee

Therese Hendrickson Chairperson

Tim Allen Jerrilyn Bean Sheila Geoghan Bob Hoberman Madeleine Hoberman Karen Kahn Carleen Lombardi William Loughran Carby Mioduszewski Allison Titley Brenda Wilson

Raritan Bay Medical Center Community Advisory Committee

Russell Azzarello Andrew Citron, M.D. Antonio Cruz Steven Goldberg, M.D. Al Holcomb Joann LaPerla-Morales Timothy O’Brien Barry Rosengarten Louis Seminski Stephen Warren, M.D. Jorge Gonzalez-Gomez James Woller Mark Daniele Robert DePow Roz Czaban Robert Durso Yvonne Lopez

Partners in Health

Elizabeth White Carolyn Woody Chairpersons

Marilyn Griffin James Holley Yvonne Johnson Flyyn Jones Janice Moon Kenneth Morgan Gail Oliver Beatrice O’Neill Celeste Overbey Gilda Rogers Mary S. Scott Natalie Smith Daliah Spencer Patricia Thomas Nancy Washington Dr. Linda Whitfield-Spinner Audrey Williamson

Unidos

Marco Navarrete Beatriz Oesterheld Chairpersons

Jackeline Biddle-Shuler Julie Montalvo Mojica Violeta Peters Louis Rodriguez

Deaf & Hard of Hearing Partners in Health

Jason Weiland NJ Division of Deaf & Hard of Hearing

Eileen Forestal, Ph.D. Janet Holz Robert Holz Joleen Marsillo Nancy Silberman Lori Timney Tess Wattai

Raritan Bay Medical Center Foundation

Timothy P. O’Brien, CFP Chairman

James J. Elek Vice Chairman

Michael R. D’Agnes, FACHE Treasurer/Secretary


Linda M. Hill, PharmD. Executive Director

Andrew Citron, M.D.

Barry Rosengarten

Jessica Smith

Community Advisory Committees

Jersey Shore University Medical Center Community Advisory Committee

Steven M. Bumbera Chairperson

Kathie Adams Chief Robert Adams Jeffrey T. Bassett Clement S. Bramley, Jr. Lorraine Chewey, MS, R.N., NJ-CSN Tom Gilmour Richard A. Kelly Kristin Meyler Tommy Miles Carole Knopp Morris Carol Rizzo Louis Rodriguez Sharon Saunders Patricia Swannack Janice Sweeney Ben Waldron John Weaver Rich Weber Bertha Williams-Pullen Rabbi Symcha Zylberberg

Ocean Medical Center Community Advisory Committee

Neal Metnick Chairperson

Mary Burne Susan Coddington Patty Cooke Darcy Errington Michelle Eventoff Peter Flihan Ginny Horner Beverly Keyes Marie Land Gloria Leyden Donna Mitchell Linda Murtagh Pete Pasquale Jules Plangere, III Norma Pols Kathy Pulizzi Elaine Robinson Kathy Russell Frank Scarpone Karel Schnitzer Joseph Tomaselli Fred Underwood Marcia Van Sant Rose Wehmeyer Beverly Wilson Rev. Carlos Wilton

Southern Ocean Medical Center Community Advisory Committee

Keith Gunsten Chairperson

Connie Becraft Maxine Blumenthal John Boekell Joan Brooks Dave Cavalier Mary Ann Collett Eileen Eckstrom Mary Ferrara Stephen Fessler Dolores Francks Nancy Gates Sandra Grassia

Genevieve Green Jackie Hillman Brian Holloway, Jr. Barbara Hopkins Peter Kileen Kate Krier Joanne Parker Lisa Patchell Gennie Petrillo Andrea Pharo Georgette Schenk Bernice Smith Pat Straniere James Vaugh Alice White

Riverview Medical Center Community Advisory Committee

John Horl Chairperson

Virginia Bland Sean Byrnes Mary-Grace Cangemi Myrtle Carter Karen Collopy Nancy Drake Carol Ann Giardelli Joan Gardner David Gilmour Teresa Hartely John Hendrick James E. Holley Lauren Kelly Charlie Melita Bernard H. Natelson Beatriz Oesterheld David Prown John Romeo Marie Tambaro Roseann Weber Michelle Welsh Ellen Whitford

5 6 | 2 0 1 5 / 2 0 1 6 M e r i d i a n H e a l t h A n n u a l R e p o r t

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