Tag: Caregivers

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April 2024 DAISY® and BEE Award Recipients

Illustrative image for Daisy and BEE April 2024 winners.

Watertown, NY – Samaritan Medical Center is pleased to announce its DAISY and BEE Award recipients for April 2024. The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses® recognizes exemplary nursing staff, and the BEE Award honors other outstanding staff members who support patient care, both at the hospital and all outpatient clinics.

Kim Smith, Registered Nurse (RN), and Nurse Manager, for Samaritan’s Interventional Radiology (IR) and Infusion units received the DAISY Award. Nursing Assistant (NA) Ryan Washburn of Samaritan’s Progressive Care Unit received the BEE Award.

Registered Nurse Shirley Ward, nominated Smith saying:

Kim Smith, RN holding her DAISY Award certificate

“Kim has been my Nurse Manager for over 20 years. Her consistency in following contracts and policies makes her a highly respected manager since this prevents a chaotic environment and encourages growth and camaraderie within the department.  I proudly say we have very good morale in IR due to her leadership.  Patient satisfaction is always her priority. She also will do anything in her power to ensure we have the tools we need to deliver exceptional patient care.  One example is combining resources. Kim was an instrumental force in 2022 when the Pain Clinic needed assistance being able to continue to provide services to their customers. They were short on RN staff, yet IR was short a provider.  The creative solution offered up by Kim was to have Dr. Montalvo perform his procedures in the Angio suite, so these patients did not need to travel a long distance for their procedures or not have them done at all.” 

For receiving the DAISY Award – which is an international award backed by The DAISY Foundation – Smith was presented with a certificate commending her as an extraordinary nurse, a DAISY Award pin, and a symbolic sculpture called “A Healer’s Touch,” which is hand-carved by artists of the Shona Tribe in Zimbabwe. A larger version of this sculpture has also been installed in the Healing Gardens at Samaritan Medical Center in honor of all DAISY and BEE Award winners to come. It was purchased using funds donated by the Samaritan Auxiliary.

Washburn was nominated by April Del Prete, RN, with the following statement for nomination:  

Ryan Washburn, NA, holding his BEE Award Certificate at Samaritan's Progressive Care Unit.

“Throughout every shift, Ryan consistently demonstrates a level of commitment and compassion that sets a standard for excellence in patient care. Ryan’s willingness to go above and beyond is evident in every aspect of his work and everyone we work with would attest to that, without a doubt. He not only attends to the needs of his assigned patients with diligence and empathy, but he also proactively assists his colleagues, ensuring the smooth functioning of our unit. His proactive approach is reflected in his eagerness to learn, his readiness to offer assistance and in his remarkable ability to anticipate and address the needs of both the patients and staff members.”

Washburn was presented with a certificate, a BEE Award pin, and a gift bag with other tokens of gratitude.

Both awards will continue to be presented throughout the year, and nominations can be submitted by patients, families, or colleagues at any time. To make a nomination or to learn more about the Samaritan DAISY and BEE Awards, visit www.samaritanhealth.com/daisy-bee.

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About Samaritan Medical Center

Samaritan Medical Center (Watertown, New York) is a 290-bed not-for-profit community medical center, offering a full spectrum of inpatient and outpatient healthcare services. From primary and emergency care to highly specialized medical and surgical services, such as cancer treatment, neonatal intensive care, behavioral health and addiction services, and imaging services, Samaritan Medical Center and its team of healthcare professionals proudly serves the medical needs of our civilian and military community. Quality, compassion, and safety are the basic principles by which exceptional care is delivered at Samaritan.

About The DAISY Foundation

The DAISY Foundation is a not-for-profit organization, established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, by members of his family. Patrick died at the age of 33 in late 1999 from complications of Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), a little known but not uncommon auto-immune disease. (DAISY is an acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune System.) The care Patrick and his family received from nurses while he was ill inspired this unique means of thanking nurses for making a profound difference in the lives of their patients and patient families.    In addition to the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses, the Foundation expresses gratitude to the nursing profession internationally in over 3,900 healthcare facilities and schools of nursing with recognition of direct care Nurses, Nurse-led Teams, Nurse Leaders, Nursing Faculty, Nursing Students, through the J. Patrick Barnes Grants for Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice Projects and for nurses participating in medical missions. More information is available at http://www.DAISYfoundation.org.

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Nurse Practitioner (NP) Scholarships Applications Available

The application deadline has been extended to July 19, 2024.

Watertown, New York – Applications will be accepted for the seventh annual Susan Peters Nursing Scholarship will begin June 1, 2024, and conclude July 15, 2024. A retired nurse from Samaritan Medical Center established a scholarship through the Samaritan Medical Center Foundation for Registered Nurses (RNs) looking to advance their careers as Nurse Practitioners (NPs). Sadly, Peters passed away in 2020, yet this scholarship remains part of her legacy and commitment to healthcare in the community.

The Susan Peters Nursing Scholarship was established in 2018 to assist with the education costs for an RN who is continuing their education, specifically to pursue a Nurse Practitioner degree. Two scholarships of $2,000 will be awarded each year. 

Peters graduated from the former House of the Good Samaritan School of Nursing and retired from Samaritan Medical Center (SMC) as a Certified Oncology Nurse; prior to that, she had served as a staff RN and for more than 20 years as a Nurse Manager of Medical/Surgical, Orthopedic and Alternate Level of Care Units.

Beth Fipps, Vice President of Samaritan Foundation and Community Services explained, “We are so grateful to Susan for leaving a legacy to a profession she was so committed to. Susan so generously established this scholarship to promote the Nurse Practitioner profession because she felt there is an increasing need and role for such due to the nationwide shortage of healthcare providers.” 

Nurse Practitioners provide vital care to patients including developing treatment plans for their patients, ordering tests, performing minor procedures, and prescribing medication. 

The 2023 scholarships awardees were Joseph Donoghue and Maegan Castle. Joseph is a Registered Nurse in the emergency department at Samaritan Medical Center and obtaining his Family Nurse Practitioner degree. Maegan is a Registered Nurse in Samaritan’s Intensive Care Unit and is also obtaining her Family Nurse Practitioner degree. 

Again, the application period for the Susan Peters Nursing Scholarship is June 1-July 15, 2024, with the scholarship award announcement set to take place in August 2024. 

To be eligible for this scholarship, candidates must meet the following criteria:

  • Be a Registered Nurse (RN) with a minimum of two full years’ working experience. RNs currently working for Samaritan Medical Center preferred, but not mandatory.
  • Medical/Surgical experience preferred but not necessary. 
  • Must be a resident of either Jefferson or Lewis County, New York.
  • Eligible to apply after successful completion of first semester in a Nurse Practitioner program with at least a B average.

As part of the application, Registered Nurses must describe why they are pursuing their Nurse Practitioner degree and where, as well as whether they have a financial need. Applicants should submit two letters of recommendation and the two most recent transcripts along with the application to support the RNs pursuit of a Nurse Practitioner degree. 

For more information or to obtain a scholarship application, please visit www.samaritanhealth.com/scholarshipapplication or contact the SMC Foundation at 315-785-5785 or visit www.samaritanhealth.com/scholarships. The application can be completed online, emailed to donations@shsny.com or mailed to Samaritan Foundation, Attn: Beth Fipps, 830 Washington Street, Watertown, NY 13601.

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April 2024 OWL Award Recipients

April 2024 OWL Award Honorees Portrait

Watertown, NY – Samaritan Keep Home and Samaritan Summit Village are pleased to announce the OWL award recipients for April 2024. The outstanding workers in long term care (OWL) award recognizes exemplary staff who support the residents, their families, and the caregivers at our long term care facilities.

Brittany Garwick, Licensed Practical Nurse, at the Keep Home, and Summit Village Certified Nursing Assistant Brianna Doss, were nominated and selected as winners by a committee.

Nurse Manager Jeannine Gardner nominated Garwick, and an excerpt from the April OWL award nomination, read:

“Brittany started here as a traveling nurse and, after falling in love with the organization, the staff, and the residents, she signed on as a full-time LPN on the 6th floor. Brittany is a compassionate and dedicated employee and is an absolute asset to this facility and the organization. She is the definition of the Heart Values. She is empathetic and calm while caring for and assisting the residents, visitors, and co-workers for whatever they need.”

The Summit Village OWL honoree was nominated by Jolene Smouse, director of long term care education, saying, “Brianna started at SSV last July. She has made a great impression with staff, as well as residents. She is kind and caring to the residents and always helpful to her co-workers. She communicates with staff and management to provide the best care for her residents and is respectful to families and everyone she comes in contact with. Brianna is a great asset to the Samaritan family, and we are very happy she chose us.”

Portrait of Brittany Garwick.
Brittany Garwick
Portrait of Brianna Doss, CNA.
Brianna Doss

For being recognized, the OWL recipients receive a certificate, special parking spot for a month, an owl pin, special banner recognition, badge buddy, and various treats.

The OWL award will continue to be presented at each Samaritan long term care facility throughout the year, and residents, families, or colleagues can submit nominations at any time. To nominate or learn more about the OWL award, visit samaritanhealth.com/experience.

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About Samaritan Keep Home

The Samaritan Keep Home is a 272-bed long term care facility connected to the Samaritan Medical Center campus in Watertown. This residential care facility provides a full range of skilled nursing assistance, rehabilitative therapies, and social and recreational activities. Our mission is to provide an atmosphere that allows our residents to thrive and remain socially active in all aspects of their lives.

About Samaritan Summit Village

At Samaritan Summit Village – Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing facilities – our team is committed to providing sophisticated senior living. Whether we’re assisting with daily chores or planning exciting group activities, we’re here to help make living easier The services needed by residents may vary widely, but the goal of our care is always the same: helping seniors to live exceptionally and age in place. With its amazing views, Samaritan Summit Village overlooks Watertown, NY, and offers 120 assisted living beds, and 168 nursing home beds.

About The OWL Award

The owl is symbolic of intuition, protection, and wisdom. At Samaritan, we are all caregivers, including those who have committed to showing extraordinary compassionate care as a long term caregiver. We need each other to care for our community.

The OWL Award (Outstanding Workers in Long Term Care) was established in December 2023 and is awarded to a caregiver who has given their time and talent to the healthcare system and to our residents. The recipients have repeatedly gone above and beyond in their role to help our staff, and residents, to make our community thrive. They exemplify the HEART Values and take their role as a Samaritan Caregiver with pride.

The OWL Award complements our existing DAISY and BEE Awards for staff, and HIVE award for volunteers. Together we recognize the amazing caregivers of the Samaritan Health System and the culture we embrace.

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March 2024 DAISY® and BEE Award Recipients

March 2024, Daisy Award winner Brandi Simpson, RN, and BEE Award winner, Brittney Kiblin, Registered Pharmacy Tech.

Watertown, NY – Samaritan Medical Center is pleased to announce its DAISY and BEE Award recipients for March 2024. The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses® recognizes exemplary nursing staff, and the BEE Award honors other outstanding staff members who support patient care, both at the hospital and all outpatient clinics.

Brandi Simpson, registered nurse (RN) at Samaritan Interventional Radiology received the DAISY Award. Brittney Kiblin, registered pharmacy technician at Samaritan Medical Center, received the BEE Award.

Nurse Manager Kim Smith, nominated Simpson saying:

Portrait of Brandi Simpson, Registered Nurse, holding her Daisy Award certificate
Brandi Simpson, RN

“Brandi takes time at the bedside to engage in casual conversation to ease the apprehension and fear of patients receiving treatment for both new and old acute and chronic diagnosis.  Brandi makes sure that the support person is always included and provides time for them to ask questions and seek clarification.  She always provides them with education and reassurance to always “reach out and call if you have any concerns or questions”.   She always maintains that welcoming smile and demeanor.  Plus she is always willing to come in on a moment’s notice to help with staffing and make sure patients’ needs are met.   I am so proud to have Brandi on my team and for all she has accomplished.” 

For receiving the DAISY Award – which is an international award backed by The DAISY Foundation – Simpson was presented with a certificate commending her as an extraordinary nurse, a DAISY Award pin, and a symbolic sculpture called “A Healer’s Touch,” which is hand-carved by artists of the Shona Tribe in Zimbabwe. A larger version of this sculpture has also been installed in the Healing Gardens at Samaritan Medical Center in honor of all DAISY and BEE Award winners to come. It was purchased using funds donated by the Samaritan Auxiliary.

Kiblin was nominated by Pharmacist Andrea Favret, with the following statement for nomination:  

Portrait of Brittney Kiblin, registered pharmacy technician, holding her BEE Award certificate
Brittany Kiblin, Registered Pharmacy Tech

“Brittney has been instrumental in preparing for and implementing the new regulations set forth by USP 797 on IV sterile compounding.  Without her help, we wouldn’t be as successful as we are at maintaining regulations, training staff, and providing the highest level of care for our patients.  Brittney is always willing to lend a hand to her fellow employees to complete the daily tasks in the department even if not scheduled to do so.  She is very deserving of this award.”

Kiblin was presented with a certificate, a BEE Award pin, and a gift bag with other tokens of gratitude.

Both awards will continue to be presented throughout the year, and nominations can be submitted by patients, families, or colleagues at any time. To make a nomination or to learn more about the Samaritan DAISY and BEE Awards, visit www.samaritanhealth.com/daisy-bee.

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About Samaritan Medical Center

Samaritan Medical Center (Watertown, New York) is a 290-bed not-for-profit community medical center, offering a full spectrum of inpatient and outpatient healthcare services. From primary and emergency care to highly specialized medical and surgical services, such as cancer treatment, neonatal intensive care, behavioral health and addiction services, and imaging services, Samaritan Medical Center and its team of healthcare professionals proudly serves the medical needs of our civilian and military community. Quality, compassion, and safety are the basic principles by which exceptional care is delivered at Samaritan.

About The DAISY Foundation

The DAISY Foundation is a not-for-profit organization, established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, by members of his family. Patrick died at the age of 33 in late 1999 from complications of Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), a little known but not uncommon auto-immune disease. (DAISY is an acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune System.) The care Patrick and his family received from nurses while he was ill inspired this unique means of thanking nurses for making a profound difference in the lives of their patients and patient families.    In addition to the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses, the Foundation expresses gratitude to the nursing profession internationally in over 3,900 healthcare facilities and schools of nursing with recognition of direct care Nurses, Nurse-led Teams, Nurse Leaders, Nursing Faculty, Nursing Students, through the J. Patrick Barnes Grants for Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice Projects and for nurses participating in medical missions. More information is available at http://www.DAISYfoundation.org.

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February 2024 DAISY® and BEE Award Recipients

February 2024 Daisy and BEE recipients: Ann Groff and Melissa McDonald.

Watertown, NY – Samaritan Medical Center is pleased to announce its DAISY and BEE Award recipients for February 2024. The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses® recognizes exemplary nursing staff, and the BEE Award honors other outstanding staff members who support patient care, both at the hospital and all outpatient clinics.

Ann Groff, licensed practical nurse (LPN) at Samaritan Dermatology and Mohs Surgery received the DAISY Award. Melissa McDonald, medical assistant at Samaritan Dermatology and Mohs Surgery, received the BEE Award. This was a first for the committee to award two deserving caregivers to the same outpatient clinic, at the same time.

Rachel Moore, lead clinic LPN at Samaritan Dermatology and Mohs Surgery nominated Groff saying:

“At the end of the day she always makes her rounds to make sure the chores are done and checks to see if anyone needs anything before leaving. She never stops going and is a true team player. Ann helps precept new employees and is very well respected. If the surgical team needs help, she is there and hops right in. We need more nurses like her. Ann Groff is very deserving of the Daisy award because she is a true example of an extraordinary NURSE!! Thank you, Ann, for your hard work and dedication to our patients and for making the lives of others so much easier through your compassion. You are a true Samaritan star and DAISY.”

For receiving the DAISY Award – which is an international award backed by The DAISY Foundation – Groff was presented with a certificate commending her as an extraordinary nurse, a DAISY Award pin, and a symbolic sculpture called “A Healer’s Touch,” which is hand-carved by artists of the Shona Tribe in Zimbabwe. A larger version of this sculpture has also been installed in the Healing Gardens at Samaritan Medical Center in honor of all DAISY and BEE Award winners to come. It was purchased using funds donated by the Samaritan Auxiliary.

McDonald was also nominated by Rachel Moore, with the following statement for nomination:  

“Our patients are in great hands with Melissa. She assists with surgeries, and multiple procedures on a daily basis. Helps prep charts and get things ready for the next week without any hesitation. I hope she continues on for her nursing degree because she would be a fantastic nurse someday. Melissa is trustworthy, dependable, respectful, empathetic, honest and always accountable. Melissa deserves the Bee award with high honors for the fantastic care she gives our patients.”

McDonald was presented with a certificate, a BEE Award pin, and a gift bag with other tokens of gratitude.

Both awards will continue to be presented throughout the year, and nominations can be submitted by patients, families, or colleagues at any time. To make a nomination or to learn more about the Samaritan DAISY and BEE Awards, visit www.samaritanhealth.com/daisy-bee.

Ann Groff, licensed practical nurse, and Melissa McDonald, medical assistant, were presented with certificates for Samaritan’s February 2024 DAISY and BEE Awards.

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About Samaritan Medical Center

Samaritan Medical Center (Watertown, New York) is a 290-bed not-for-profit community medical center, offering a full spectrum of inpatient and outpatient healthcare services. From primary and emergency care to highly specialized medical and surgical services, such as cancer treatment, neonatal intensive care, behavioral health and addiction services, and imaging services, Samaritan Medical Center and its team of healthcare professionals proudly serves the medical needs of our civilian and military community. Quality, compassion, and safety are the basic principles by which exceptional care is delivered at Samaritan.

About The DAISY Foundation

The DAISY Foundation is a not-for-profit organization, established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, by members of his family. Patrick died at the age of 33 in late 1999 from complications of Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), a little known but not uncommon auto-immune disease. (DAISY is an acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune System.) The care Patrick and his family received from nurses while he was ill inspired this unique means of thanking nurses for making a profound difference in the lives of their patients and patient families.    In addition to the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses, the Foundation expresses gratitude to the nursing profession internationally in over 3,900 healthcare facilities and schools of nursing with recognition of direct care Nurses, Nurse-led Teams, Nurse Leaders, Nursing Faculty, Nursing Students, through the J. Patrick Barnes Grants for Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice Projects and for nurses participating in medical missions. More information is available at http://www.DAISYfoundation.org.

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January 2024 DAISY® and BEE Award Recipients

Daisy and Bee Awards winners, January 2024

Watertown, NY – Samaritan Medical Center is pleased to announce its DAISY and BEE Award recipients for January 2024. The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses® recognizes exemplary nursing staff, and the BEE Award honors other outstanding staff members who support patient care, both at the hospital and all outpatient clinics.

Megan Gould, licensed practical nurse at Samaritan Family Health Center (SFHC) in Adams received the DAISY Award. Mary Deline, nursing assistant at Samaritan Medical Center 4 Pavilion, received the BEE Award.

Donna Edwards, clinic supervisor at SFHC in Adams nominated Gould saying:

“Megan has a wonderful skill set of communicating with her patients. She is calm and patient but sets clear appropriate boundaries with patients. She is a nurse that nurses should strive to be. She is a huge asset to our organization. There are many events that would warrant her the recognition of this award but most recently she had an encounter with a patient’s family at the end stages of her life. The outcome for the family was loss and grief but Megan did an amazing job making that complicated process to get Hospice into the home less stressful for the family. This care she gives patients resembles that on a daily basis and she deserves to be recognized for her continued amazing care for her patients.” 

For receiving the DAISY Award – which is an international award backed by The DAISY Foundation – Gould was presented with a certificate commending her as an extraordinary nurse, a DAISY Award pin, and a symbolic sculpture called “A Healer’s Touch,” which is hand-carved by artists of the Shona Tribe in Zimbabwe. A larger version of this sculpture has also been installed in the Healing Gardens at Samaritan Medical Center in honor of all DAISY and BEE Award winners to come. It was purchased using funds donated by the Samaritan Auxiliary.

Deline was nominated by Meghann Black, Registered Nurse at the Medical Center, with the following statement for nomination:  

“Mary goes above and beyond for her patients. She takes her time with each and every one of them to make sure they are cleaned from head to toe and walked multiple times per day.  Mary always volunteers to stay late on the days she works and almost always ends up working the next day. Mary is the epitome of how an aide should be and I do not think that she gets enough credit. Samaritan Medical Center is very lucky to have a hard dedicated worker like Mary.”

Deline was presented with a certificate, a BEE Award pin, and a gift bag with other tokens of gratitude.

Both awards will continue to be presented throughout the year, and nominations can be submitted by patients, families, or colleagues at any time. To make a nomination or to learn more about the Samaritan DAISY and BEE Awards, visit www.samaritanhealth.com/daisy-bee.

Megan Gould, licensed practical nurse, and Mary Deline, nursing assistant, were presented with certificates for Samaritan’s January 2024 DAISY and BEE Awards.

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About Samaritan Medical Center

Samaritan Medical Center (Watertown, New York) is a 290-bed not-for-profit community medical center, offering a full spectrum of inpatient and outpatient healthcare services. From primary and emergency care to highly specialized medical and surgical services, such as cancer treatment, neonatal intensive care, behavioral health and addiction services, and imaging services, Samaritan Medical Center and its team of healthcare professionals proudly serves the medical needs of our civilian and military community. Quality, compassion, and safety are the basic principles by which exceptional care is delivered at Samaritan.

About The DAISY Foundation

The DAISY Foundation is a not-for-profit organization, established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, by members of his family. Patrick died at the age of 33 in late 1999 from complications of Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), a little known but not uncommon auto-immune disease. (DAISY is an acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune System.) The care Patrick and his family received from nurses while he was ill inspired this unique means of thanking nurses for making a profound difference in the lives of their patients and patient families.    In addition to the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses, the Foundation expresses gratitude to the nursing profession internationally in over 3,900 healthcare facilities and schools of nursing with recognition of direct care Nurses, Nurse-led Teams, Nurse Leaders, Nursing Faculty, Nursing Students, through the J. Patrick Barnes Grants for Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice Projects and for nurses participating in medical missions. More information is available at http://www.DAISYfoundation.org.

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Samaritan to Host Dinner to Recognize Physicians: Dr. Karl J. Komar to Receive Lifetime Achievement Award

Watertown, NY – Samaritan Medical Center will host its tenth Physician Recognition Dinner on Thursday, April 11, 2024. This event, supported by the Samaritan Medical Center Medical Executive Committee and Samaritan Foundation, is held annually on or around National Doctors’ Day to honor Samaritan’s active and retired physicians for their dedication.

As part of this event, one physician is selected to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award, which was established to recognize a Samaritan physician for his/her leadership and service to the health and well-being of the Northern New York community. Whether in their private practice, hospital duties, Board or Medical Staff leadership positions or volunteer work, Samaritan’s physicians dedicate their time and talent to making the community a better place to live.

The 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award recipient is Karl J. Komar, MD, a neonatologist, in recognition of his 30-year commitment to Samaritan Medical Center as the original and lead neonatologist.

Dr. Komar is from Grand Rapids, Michigan. He received his medical degree from Wayne State University, Detroit, MI in 1977 and completed a pediatric residency program at Butterworth Hospital in Grand Rapids, MI.  He then went on to complete a fellowship in neonatology at Wyler Children’s Hospital, Chicago, IL. He practiced as a neonatologist in Grand Rapids and Dearborn, MI prior to relocating to Watertown. 

In 1994, Dr. Komar joined Samaritan Medical Center’s medical staff.  Since Dr. Komar’s arrival, the Samaritan Level II neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) has flourished with his expertise to care for those babies born after 32 weeks gestation needing extra care to develop and thrive.  He has spent countless hours caring for our most precious newborns in need of a higher level of care after their birth. It is a space and a role he has been dedicated to for 30 years, oftentimes working 24 hours a day. “The Level 2 NICU existed before I arrived here, but it has grown and developed significantly with the support from Kinney Drugs, our outstanding nursing staff, and Samaritan’s administration” said Dr. Komar.

Dr. Karl Komar portrait.
Dr. Karl Komar, neonatologist, to receive Lifetime Achievement Award

As a specialist in his field, Dr. Komar has held leadership roles at Samaritan serving as Medical Staff President in 2011 and 2012 and in pediatrics/neonatology as the chair for the department for many years – in fact the longest of any member of our medical staff.  He has cultivated relationships with surrounding facilities to help newborns receive care at the Level 4 Regional Perinatal Center at Crouse Hospital, and accepting transfers to our NICU when the newborns are progressing so they can be closer to home.  Samaritan’s Level II NICU is the only NICU in the tri-county region, and Dr. Komar has been a large part of its longevity in the community.  The need for the NICU was in part due to the connection Samaritan has with Fort Drum and the large number of births we see each year allowing Samaritan to care for military families closer to home. 

Dr. Komar and the NICU team were instrumental and humbled when the new NICU opened in 2012 within the Car-Freshner Center for Women and Children.  Their vision to create a family-centric space with private areas, updated equipment, and a dedicated unit came to fruition. A major pride point for Dr. Komar has been his work and advocacy efforts for the Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) program at Samaritan.  Each year Dr. Komar supports CMN to help raise funds for local families in need, and to support pediatric equipment needed in the child-centered areas.  He helps engage families through the annual Radiothon event, encourages families to use the direct-family assistance program, and has been part of the allocation committee that helps determine where the funds raised will be used.

Dr. Komar’s connection with the families and newborns he cares for are at the core of his lifetime achievement.  So many lives have been touched through this specialized service. 

“This annual event is a time to honor our physicians and celebrate the essential role they play in caring for our patients and our community,” said Thomas H. Carman, president and CEO of Samaritan Medical Center. “Dr. Komar’s long-standing commitment to providing specialized neonatal care for our smallest, most vulnerable patients and their families has had a tremendous impact on so many lives. Our community is fortunate to have a team of exceptional physicians such as Dr. Komar that have dedicated their lives to the practice of medicine and demonstrate excellence in providing patient care every day.”

Dr. Komar resides in Watertown.  He has two children, Alysia and Michael, who both live in California. He continues to be inspired by the memory of his late wife Antoinette.

The Physician Recognition Dinner will be held at 6 p.m. on Thursday, April 11, 2024 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Watertown. This event is open to the community. Tickets are $55 per person. For more information or to RSVP, please visit www.samaritanhealth.com/physiciandinner, or call 315-785-4584.

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September, October, November, and December 2023 DAISY®️ and BEE Award Recipients

Watertown, NY – Samaritan Medical Center is pleased to announce its DAISY and BEE Award recipients for September, October, November, and December 2023. The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses® recognizes exemplary nursing staff, and the BEE Award honors other outstanding staff members who support patient care, at the hospital and all outpatient clinics.

September:

  • Jalynne Granger, Registered Nurse (RN), Samaritan Home Health, received the DAISY Award.
  • Brianna Biggs, nursing assistant, Samaritan Medical Center, received the BEE Award.

October:

  • Tamara Bennett, RN, at Samaritan Medical Center, received the DAISY Award. 
  • Jamie Lyn Goutermout, safety aid, inpatient mental health unit at Samaritan Medical Center, received the BEE award. 

November:

  • Athena Green, RN, Samaritan’s emergency department, received the DAISY Award. 
  • Jamie Via, nursing assistant, Samaritan Medical Center, received the BEE Award. 

December:

  • Jennifer Steelman, RN, Samaritan Medical Center, received the DAISY Award. 
  • Arlene Godfrey, EKG technician, Samaritan Medical Center, received the BEE Award.  

An excerpt from Granger’s September DAISY award nomination from the family of a patient, read:

“Jalynne has gone up and beyond as a home health nurse to my mom. Jaylyn has been patient and kind. On one visit she realized that my mom needed to go to the doctor immediately as a result of an infection that had started. It ended with my mom needing a short stay in the hospital. Which could have been a long stay or even worse if not for her guidance. We have never had a home nurse before and our family was a little anxious about this new situation, however with Jaylynne as our nurse we look forward to her visit every week.”

An excerpt from Bennett’s October DAISY award nomination from a co-worker, read: 

“4 Pavilion (Medical Center) is so very lucky to have Tamara as a nurse. She is always going above and beyond for her patients and her coworkers. On countless occasions she has stayed after her scheduled hours until change of shift to make sure the floor had a charge nurse or has come in on a weekend day when the floor is short staffed. When a nurse reports a concerning change in status of a patient, Tamara goes directly to the bedside to assess the situation firsthand.” 

An excerpt from Green’s November DAISY award nomination from the family of a patient, read: 

“Nurse Athena checked in on us time after time and gave us updates.  Near the end of our time in the emergency department, she brought in a Christmas stuffed dog for my son, and my son absolutely adored that dog.  It made everything better for him and he did not let go of the dog until the next morning.  Nurse Athena was kind, patient, understanding, and overall, the best nurse I’ve encountered thus far at Samaritan.  We need more nurses like Athena.”

An excerpt from Steelman’s December DAISY award nomination from a co-worker, read: 

“I have also had the pleasure of working with Jenn side by side, and there are not enough words to describe a nurse like her who embodies compassion, kindness, and unwavering dedication. Jenn exemplifies the epitome of compassion, kindness, and selflessness in her role as a registered nurse at Samaritan Medical Center. Her unwavering dedication to her patients is a testament to her exemptional character and commitment to care.”

For receiving the DAISY Award – which is an international award backed by The DAISY Foundation – Granger, Bennett, Green, and Steelman were presented with certificates commending them as extraordinary nurses, DAISY Award pins, and symbolic sculptures called “A Healer’s Touch,” which is hand-carved by artists of the Shona Tribe in Zimbabwe. A larger version of this sculpture has also been installed in the Healing Gardens at Samaritan Medical Center in honor of all DAISY and BEE Award winners to come. It was purchased using funds donated by the Samaritan Auxiliary.

An excerpt from Biggs’ September BEE award nomination from a co-worker, read: 

“Brianna is the aide that every nurse wants to have. She always goes above and beyond for her patients and nurses. No matter the request Bri is always willing to help out. She is the first one to a call light even if it is not her assigned patient, she jumps in and offers assistance whenever it is needed.” 

An excerpt from Goutermout’s October BEE award nomination from a co-worker, read: 

“Her dedication and commitment to her role as a safety aid at Samaritan demonstrates how she embodies the Samaritan H.E.A.R.T. (honest, empathetic, accountable, respectful, trustworthy) values. Her actions clearly demonstrate her passion for ensuring the well-being of both the staff and patients.”  

An excerpt from Via’s November BEE award nomination from a co-worker, read: 

“If ever there was an example of somebody that fits the definition of “Being Excellent Every Day” it is Jamie. Jamie consistently goes about her day with a positive outlook and goes above and beyond for her patients. Her consistent empathy and compassion make all her patients feel as though they are the most important which brings happiness to their day.”

An excerpt from Godfrey’s December BEE award nomination from a co-worker, read: 

“I often find Arlene accompanying visitors and patients to their appropriate destination when they are lost.  I watch how she engages in casual conversation that usually ends with a thank you and a smile. Arlene is proficient in her job duties and takes the time to teach and educate others.  She is a leader within the organization and is the point person for scheduling, coordinating staff (PCA and Nursing) education as well as taking in students and interns for shadow hours and education within the EKG department.”  

Biggs, Goutermout, Via, and Godfrey were presented with certificates, BEE Award pins, and gift bags with other tokens of gratitude. 

Both awards will continue to be presented throughout the year, and patients, families, or colleagues can submit nominations at any time. To nominate or learn more about the Samaritan DAISY and BEE Awards, visit www.samaritanhealth.com/daisy-bee.

Photos of the named DAISY and BEE Award winners are available at samaritanhealth.com/news.

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About Samaritan Medical Center

Samaritan Medical Center (Watertown, New York) is a 290-bed not-for-profit community medical center, offering a full spectrum of inpatient and outpatient healthcare services. From primary and emergency care to highly specialized medical and surgical services, such as cancer treatment, neonatal intensive care, behavioral health and addiction services, and imaging services, Samaritan Medical Center and its team of healthcare professionals proudly serves the medical needs of our civilian and military community. Quality, compassion, and safety are the basic principles by which exceptional care is delivered at Samaritan.

About The DAISY Foundation

The DAISY Foundation is a not-for-profit organization, established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, by members of his family. Patrick died at the age of 33 in late 1999 from complications of Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), a little known but not uncommon auto-immune disease. (DAISY is an acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune System.) The care Patrick and his family received from nurses while he was ill inspired this unique means of thanking nurses for making a profound difference in the lives of their patients and patient families. In addition to the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses, the Foundation expresses gratitude to the nursing profession internationally in over 3,900 healthcare facilities and schools of nursing with recognition of direct care Nurses, Nurse-led Teams, Nurse Leaders, Nursing Faculty, Nursing Students, through the J. Patrick Barnes Grants for Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice Projects and for nurses participating in medical missions. More information is available at http://www.DAISYfoundation.org.

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January 2024 OWL Award Recipients

OWL Awards January 2024 winners poster.

Watertown, NY – Samaritan Keep Home and Samaritan Summit Village are pleased to announce the OWL award recipients for January 2024, the first recipients of this new award. The outstanding workers in long term care (OWL) award recognizes exemplary staff who support the residents, their families, and the caregivers at our long term care facilities.

Diana Sharpe, fifth floor Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) at the Keep Home, and Niah Perez, first floor skilled nursing unit clerk, at Summit Village, were nominated, and selected as winners by a committee.

A co-worker nominated Sharpe and an excerpt from the January OWL award nomination, read:

“Diana goes above and beyond for all our residents. She takes pride in the care she gives. She is so genuine and kind, not only towards our residents and their family members, but to our staff members as well. She orients our new CNAs and surpasses all expectations. She is one of the reasons why SKH has value to it.”

A director of nursing nominated Perez and an excerpt the January OWL award nomination, read:

“Niah’s main priority is residents overall care and experience. Her attention to detail is outstanding. Anytime you ask Niah for anything her answer is ‘I will get that done.’ She has a positive uplifting attitude that our residents love.”

For being recognized, the OWL recipients receive a certificate, special parking spot for a month, an owl pin, special banner recognition, badge buddy, and various treats.

The OWL award will continue to be presented at each Samaritan long term care facility throughout the year, and residents, families, or colleagues can submit nominations at any time. To nominate or learn more about the OWL award, visit www.samaritanhealth.com/daisy-bee.

Pictured here, on left, Diana Sharpe, CNA at the Keep Home, and on right, Niah Perez, unit clerk, Summit Village, are the first two recipients of the OWL award.

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About Samaritan Keep Home

The Samaritan Keep Home is a 272-bed long term care facility connected to the Samaritan Medical Center campus in Watertown. This residential care facility provides a full range of skilled nursing assistance, rehabilitative therapies, and social and recreational activities. Our mission is to provide an atmosphere that allows our residents to thrive and remain socially active in all aspects of their lives.

About Samaritan Summit Village

At Samaritan Summit Village – Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing facilities – our team is committed to providing sophisticated senior living. Whether we’re assisting with daily chores or planning exciting group activities, we’re here to help make living easier, at a reasonable cost. The services needed by residents may vary widely, but the goal of our care is always the same: helping seniors to live exceptionally. With its amazing views, Samaritan Summitt Village overlooks Watertown, NY, and offers 120 assisted living beds, and 168 nursing home beds.

About The OWL Award

The owl is symbolic of intuition, protection, and wisdom. At Samaritan, we are all caregivers, including those who have committed to showing extraordinary compassionate care as a long term caregiver. We need each other to care for our community.

The OWL Award (Outstanding Workers in Long Term Care) was established in December 2023 and is awarded to a caregiver who has given their time and talent to the healthcare system and to our residents. The recipients have repeatedly gone above and beyond in their role to help our staff, and residents, to make our community thrive. They exemplify the HEART Values and take their role as a Samaritan Caregiver with pride.

The OWL Award complements our existing DAISY and BEE Awards for staff, and HIVE award for volunteers. Together we recognize the amazing caregivers of the Samaritan Health System and the culture we embrace.

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At Samaritan, making a difference is the job

web banner. Care for our community and your career.

According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, individuals are now changing jobs — or more appropriately, careers and industries — more than ever before.

Among their top reasons for switching are pursuit of a more suitable work-life balance; scheduling to better accommodate a modern world; and most importantly, the need to be part of a positive workplace culture where they feel they’re making a difference in people’s lives.

Thankfully, those at Samaritan understand this impact and appreciate the chance to be a significant part of people’s lives, every day.

“Samaritan was originally founded as a place to care for our neighbors,” says Tom Carman, president and CEO of Samaritan. “Nearly 150 years later, caring is at the heart of everything we do. Our staff feel this, and it makes work a welcoming and rewarding experience for all of us.”

Nestled within the natural beauty of Northern New York, Samaritan offers dedicated candidates rewarding career opportunities, excellent benefits and professional development, and the ability to make a real difference in healthcare throughout our surrounding communities.

Vicky Steen, a 50-year employee of the Samaritan Keep Home, said, “My favorite part of my job is that I met so many amazing staff members I also work with an awesome group of girls within my department I love to put smiles upon the residents faces and they make my day as well. It’s just a great place to work.”

Opportunities across different departments

No matter the position—from registered nurse to certified nursing assistants to environmental services or office support—everyone’s job is critical to the care of Samaritan’s patients and residents. Bound by a common set of values known as HEART (honest, empathetic, accountable, respectful, and trustworthy) values employees are dedicated, enthusiastic and truly care about making a difference—and are surrounded by others who feel the exact same way. This common focus helps to create a great place to work and practice. Our patients and residents needs drive every decision.

Candice Matthews, a 19-year employee of Samaritan Medical Center, said, “What I love about my job is everything. I love interacting with patients. I love interacting with staff. I love seeing new things and every day you learn something new or meet someone new.”

Together, they’re supported by an organization whose ongoing strategic planning drives Samaritan forward, sets the tone for future growth and development, and offers stable, market rate paying jobs with guaranteed hours —all while providing a high quality of care for the community.

“We’re looking for employees who not only want to contribute to Samaritan’s growth, but grow with us,” says Cynthia Cassell, nursing recruiter for Samaritan. “This is a place of collaboration, driven by a team togetherness that translates across all departments. People love to be a part of this, even in the bustling world of healthcare.”

Supported by superior benefits

Samaritan and its affiliates offer a robust and competitive benefits package to its employees. These packages are the finest among Northern New York businesses; and with their combination of sign-on bonuses, tuition reimbursement, comprehensive health insurance, retirement support, paid time off (PTO) and community discount programs, each are a clear reflection of how much Samaritan cares about its employees, their health and their families.

“Each benefits package was developed with our employees in mind and how best to support them both inside and outside of work,” says Chris Rowe, executive director of human resources at Samaritan. “Our caregivers are what make our care exceptional, and their well-being means everything.”

Benefits available to employees at Samaritan include:

  • Medical, dental, vision and life insurance
  • Short-term and long-term disability
  • 401(k) retirement benefit + employer match
  • RN, LPN, tech retirement
  • Long-term sick time
  • Employee fitness rebate
  • Quit for Life smoking cessation
  • Aflac cancer coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Select Loan forgiveness
  • QuickCharge (payroll deduction for on campus purchasing)

Encouraged to develop

Samaritan is proud to invest in the future of its employees by providing financial assistance and professional guidance to individuals interested in enhancing job knowledge or developing skills that foster growth in healthcare careers.

“One of the best ways we can support our employees is by encouraging their development,” says Rowe. “The more they can grow in their careers, the more they can accomplish for themselves, their families and our entire community. There are countless stories of employees that started in dietary and are now RNs and other roles.  We helped them achieve their career goals.”

Some of the ways Samaritan helps its employees develop—and make an even bigger difference—include the following:

  • Tuition assistance or reimbursement – Some employees are eligible for tuition assistance or reimbursement. There are various requirements and each case may differ. Potential employees or current employees are encouraged to contact Human Resources to see if there are options available to them.
  • Excellence through Collaboration Education and Leadership EXCEL Program – This program is designed to cultivate promising leaders within Samaritan who create and promote an engaged workforce and a culture of excellence; and focuses on such leadership competencies as delegating responsibility, communicating with impact, and building organizational talent. Upon completion, learning to leading the Samaritan Way will enable leaders to learn practical leadership skills; provide opportunities for personal and professional growth and development; and much more.

Interested in joining our Samaritan team? If so, learn about career opportunities at  https://samaritanhealth.com/careers/careers-education/ or call (315) 779-5236.

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