News from the University Hospital at Downstate
May 2023

A Message from David H. Berger, MD, MHCM, FACS, CEO of University Hospital at Downstate

The Success of ED IMPACT

ED IMPACT (IMproved Patient Access Check-in Technology) is a strategic initiative conceptualized in 2017 by Vikki S. Small, MPH, CSM, to improve Emergency Department (ED) patient throughput. With the leadership support of the ED’s Ninfa Mehta, M.D., and Roger Holt, M.D., and in partnership with Information Services and Technology (IT), IMPACT was created to replace the paper-based check-in patients used in the ED waiting room. The ED team can digitally track patient arrival times, address real-time bottlenecks, and collect essential metrics for analysis and operational improvements.

A diligent team worked very hard to help make ED IMPACT a reality. This team across Downstate includes Tim Cheung, Uraina Jones, MPH, Clarence Bryant, Redetha Abrahams-Nichols, RN, and the ED registrars. All worked to develop, test, and implement this technological tool to improve waits and delays in the ED.

The ED Team has recognized IT for programming the ED IMPACT application and successfully upgrading it to meet CMS requirements. We are thrilled that the product is working optimally for our patients.

In addition, Ms. Small partnered with Haibo Chen in IT and the Outpatient Registration and Outpatient Services Laboratory teams to successfully develop and implement LAB IMPACT. This joint venture improved patient flow and increased satisfaction for patients seeking registration and laboratory services. 

Ms. Small will lead similar projects to assist other department leaders seeking to use innovation to meet their strategic IMPACT 2030 goals of clinic efficiency and patient throughput. This successful project proves that collaboration makes great things happen to improve the care for our community.

Kudos to Ms. Small and the team that helped make IMPACT a reality and the continuous efforts that will help us continue to be the Best Place to Get Care and the Best Place to Give Care.

Celebrating Our Volunteer Services Team

What does Volunteer Services do? There is so much accomplished within the department to support the community. Our volunteers support the Nursing Stations, Guest Services, Radiology, Post Op/ Recovery, and many other areas throughout Downstate. They can do it all!

Volunteer Services has had the pleasure of having many individuals join our team. Our volunteers are exceptional, and we are grateful to all of you. You make a difference at our institution and in our Brooklyn community through your hard work and dedication. We thank you for your integrity and commitment to excellent service. We appreciate the time you spend supporting us. You make our work all the more rewarding and enjoyable!

Again, thank you so much for all you do as a part of the Downstate family.

Enjoy a few pictures from our National Volunteer Week celebration last month!

Honorary Employee of the Month for April - Vicente E. Marshall

Exceptional Volunteer: Serving Our Community for Over 21 Years

During this time, Mr. Vicente Marshall’s dual professional career has spanned three decades in healthcare and military service, acquiring diverse clinical experience, expertise, and leadership skills. Mr. Marshall’s military service includes the Marines Corps, National Guard, Army Reserves, two Vietnam tours, and special medical military missions. He has taught leadership skills and professional development skills to hundreds of soldiers. His professionalism is reflected in the respect and admiration of his colleagues and all who have worked with and for him.  

Mr. Marshall holds an associate degree from CUNY Borough of Manhattan Community College, a baccalaureate degree from Long Island University, and advanced leadership certifications. Vicente’s volunteerism has spanned many organizations, including over 21 years at University Hospital at Downstate. He has worked with the Center for Community Health Promotion and Wellness since 2002 as a translator, and he also assists clients with completing screening forms and crowd control. He has also volunteered at the SASS Foundation for Medical Research, the American Cancer Society, the registration desk for the American Heart Association, and the Alzheimer’s Association in its efforts to find a cure.

Vicente supports Sigma Theta Tau International (STTI) and the Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric, and Neonatal Nurses (AWHONN). He also adopts a family and a local school class during the holidays and provides gifts for the less fortunate. Most importantly, Vicente advocates for healthcare policies, the youth, and seniors. He is the past president of the Kiwanis International Local Club and previously co-chaired the New York District World Service Project. Mr. Marshall contributes to the Perseverance Monetary Award, which supports future nurses.

Mr. Marshall’s gifts and talents of leadership, integrity, and coaching are a calling that is personified and shared through volunteerism. Vicente believes that God blesses a cheerful giver, and he enjoys helping underserved populations and those less fortunate. He values his role in sustaining the Mission, Vision, and Values of the University Hospital at Downstate. 

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE!