News from the University Hospital at Downstate
September 2025

A Message from Patricia A. Winston, DNP, MS, RN, NEA-BC, FACHE 
Interim CEO of University Hospital at Downstate

Upcoming Joint Commission Survey Update

Beginning in September 2025, and at any time over the following six months, The Joint Commission (TJC) will conduct an unannounced triennial accreditation survey at UHD.

The visit will span four days with a five-member team: a physician, a nurse, an ambulatory care surveyor, an administrative surveyor, and a life safety surveyor. They will observe care, speak with staff, and review our processes across inpatient, ambulatory, and support areas.

This survey is an opportunity to show how we deliver safe, reliable care every day. Readiness activities are underway, and we ask staff to be prepared to engage with surveyors—describe your role, how you keep patients safe, and where unit policies and procedures are located.

Thank you for your steady focus and professionalism. Your daily work reflects the best of UHD and will speak for itself during the survey.

Fun Times at the 4th Annual Community Healthy Lifestyle Fair

On Saturday, September 6, 2025, staff from across Downstate Health welcomed neighbors to UHD’s fourth annual Community Healthy Lifestyle Fair—and the community turned out in droves. This year, we highlighted men’s and children’s health with on-site screenings, healthy-living guidance, and connections to neighborhood resources. Families joined for hands-on demos, kids’ games, and take-home tips. The day showed the wide range of care we provide and the heart of the people who deliver it.

A big thank-you to every UHD volunteer, clinician, and partner who gave their time—you made the day a standout success and a point of pride for Downstate Health.

Click below to view the video highlighting the Fair:

View the photo gallery here.

UHD Debuts Hugs Security System for Infants

There is nothing more important than the safety of our youngest patients. Downstate is proud to announce the successful launch of its new Hugs Infant & Pediatric Security System across the Women’s and Children’s Nursing Units, reflecting our most profound commitment to protecting newborns and supporting families.

With this new system, every baby wears a soft, comfortable ankle band that continuously communicates with sensors throughout the unit. If a security band is otherwise altered or removed, or an infant is moved beyond authorized areas, the system immediately alerts staff and secures the exits. Hugs provides families the comfort of knowing their child is safe every moment, freeing them to focus on what matters most: love, bonding, and the first moments of life together.

The activation of Hugs allows security for the Women’s and Children’s Nursing Units to transition fully into this state-of-the-art system, in coordination with hospital protocols. We extend our heartfelt thanks to University Police for their vigilance, for providing extra security during the transition period, and to the many departments whose dedication and teamwork brought this project to life.

As a Baby-Friendly Hospital, Downstate already champions evidence-based practices such as breastfeeding support, skin-to-skin bonding, and family-centered maternity care. The addition of the Hugs system strengthens this commitment by creating the safest environment possible for these moments of closeness and care. Families can now experience the warmth of baby-friendly practices and the assurance of cutting-edge protection; this is nurturing and safe, working hand in hand.

More than technology, this is a promise kept to the communities we serve. Our #KeepCareClose belief affirms that the best care for children and families is right here in Central Brooklyn, safe, compassionate, and close to home.

Congratulations to UHD, under the leadership of Patricia A. Winston, DNP, MS, RN, NEA-BC, FACHE, interim Chief Executive Officer, and all who made the Hugs Infant & Pediatric Security System launch possible. This new system is a proud moment for Downstate, and a lasting gift of safety and peace of mind for every family that entrusts us with their child.

Employee of the Month: David Inzerillo, Clinical Lead, Speech-Language Pathology

Congratulations to David Inzerillo, named UHD’s Employee of the Month. David supports children and adults with communication and swallowing needs across acute and rehab settings and is building outpatient services to widen access. As Clinical Lead, he sets clear policies and competencies that improve daily practice at the bedside. He teaches medical residents and mentors students and junior clinicians with hands-on training.

David launched the Modified Barium Swallow Program to sharpen dysphagia diagnosis and created the Pediatric Inpatient Feeding Program to improve care for children with complex feeding needs. He expanded services to the Neonatal and Pediatric Intensive Care Units so our youngest patients receive specialized support. He also advances scholarship—presenting at Research Day and co-authoring a manuscript.

Thank you, David, for the steady improvements that help teams deliver safer, smoother care across UHD.

UHD Acknowledges