In This Issue2 3 4 5 6 7 8 - Catholic Health System

March/April 2009
Volume 2, Issue 4
In This Issue
Strategic Planning Sets Course for the Future
There’s a familiar quote by famed management
consultant Peter Drucker that says, “The best way
to predict the future is to create it.” Those few simple
words sum up the essence of strategic planning. For
Catholic Health, it began well before our system was
formed and continues today as we set a course for the
next decade and beyond.
As we look ahead to the year 2020, we wonder
what Catholic Health will look like?
During the past year, that is the question
the strategic planning process has
been trying to answer.
Every idea, every course, every
direction must be thoroughly
studied and carefully planned to
ensure we continue to meet the
needs of our community, have the
manpower and resources to meet
those needs and, most importantly,
stay true to our Mission. “Over
the past year, we have involved
hundreds of people in this planning
effort,” said Joe McDonald, Catholic
Health President & CEO. “This gives us
a more comprehensive look at our system
and a clearer picture of where we are headed.”
Sisters of Charity Hospital, St. Joseph Campus
Begins New Chapter of Service
After months of intense, behind-the-scenes work,
two great healthcare teams are now one as St.
Joseph Hospital officially became Sisters of Charity
Hospital, St. Joseph Campus on April 1, 2009.
For associates, it is the culmination of a vision that began
in January 2008, when New York State announced
it would keep the Cheektowaga hospital open under the
sponsorship of Sisters Hospital. For the local community,
it is comfort in knowing the same great medical
team will continue to deliver high quality care on the St.
Joseph Campus.
“We are very pleased we were able to bring these
two great organizations together,” said Joe McDonald,
President & CEO of Catholic Health. “We truly believe
our associates and the community will benefit from the
combined strength of this new merger.”
In thanking everyone who worked so hard to make this
vision a reality, McDonald said, “without the support of
our leadership team and the physicians and associates
at St. Joseph and Sisters hospitals, we would not have
been able to complete this transition on time and make
it virtually seamless for our patients. Thanks to everyone
working together, we’ve been able to protect a valuable
community asset.”
In addition to “Coming Together Celebrations” held
at Sisters Hospital and the St. Joseph Campus, Catholic
Bishop of Buffalo Edward U. Kmiec blesses the sculpture honoring the
Franciscan Sisters of St. Joseph, as Sr. Judith Elaine Salzman, FSSJ,
General Minister of Sisters; Joe McDonald, Catholic Helath President;
and Carl J. Montante, Catholic Health Board Chairman; look on.
Health hosted a special tribute on March 25 to thank the
Franciscan Sisters of St. Joseph for their legacy of care
at St. Joseph Hospital (see article on page 3). During
the ceremony, the Sisters helped unveil a commemorative
stone sculpture which will be on permanent display
in the hospital’s Victory Garden.
“We are particularly grateful to the Franciscan Sisters
of St. Joseph, who opened St. Joseph Hospital in 1960,
and have been extremely supportive during this period
of transition,” McDonald continued. “We will never forget
what they have meant to our ministry.”
A Bright Future
Thanks To You
2 3 4 5 6 7 8
• Living Our Mission
• CHS Tops In
Health Systems
• Earth Day and
Recycling Day
• Special
Beginnings
• Home Care Opens
Pharmacy Service
• KMH Opens New
Radiology Suite
• Franciscan Sisters
Lasting Legacy
• Culture of
Safety
Some of the key issues that have been studied include
redefining our geographic footprint, deciding how and
where we deliver care, strengthening our physician relationships,
and developing new partnerships. “One of the
most important concepts to come out of this planning
process is our ‘patient-centered’ model of care,” explained
Maria Foti, Senior Vice President of Planning. “This
puts our patients at the center of everything we do and
builds a circle of care around their individual needs.”
Our physicians also play a key role in our planning
efforts. “Most organizations develop their strategic plan
and then try to get physician buy-in,” McDonald added.
“Our focus is to identify where our physicians are headed
and then lineup our strategy behind them.”
The first offshoot to come out of our “2020 Strategic
Plan” is the creation of new service lines that stretch
across our system. “Service lines allow us to better integrate
services along the care continuum,” Foti continued.
“This enables us to offer more complete and better coordinated
care before, during and after hospitalization.”
In 2009, Catholic Health will launch its Vascular
Diseases and Women’s Services service lines. “Strategic
Planning is more than looking into a crystal ball,” Mc-
Donald added. “It’s laying a foundation today that will
shape our future.”
• Miracles at CHS
• Nazareth Campus
• IT Commits to
S.A.F.E.
• Mercy Renovates
5 East Unit
• Mercy’s New ER
Construction
• Sisters ER Plans
• Compliance Offers
Protection
• CHS University
Schedule
• Home Care News
• Weight Program
• Foundation News
• Sisters “Clears
the Air”
• Grant to Promote
Smoke-Free
• Around the
System
Strategic Planning is not a
solo sport. It is not something
that can be done in a vacuum
or without a lot of preparation.
To be done right, it requires
the dedication and hard work of a
large number of people exchanging
information, sharing ideas
and working together to plan an
achievable course for the future.
During the past year, Catholic
Health embarked on one of our
most ambitious strategic planning
efforts to date – a plan that
will carry us to the year 2020. I
would like to take this opportunity
to thank the hundreds of people
who worked so hard to help
this plan take shape and shine a
light on the path that lies ahead.
This included physicians, nurses,
patients, board members, and
leaders from every corner of
Catholic Health, who embraced
our vision to lead the transformation
of healthcare in our community.
Not only did these people
give generously of their time,
but they really became engaged
in the process to ensure that we
thrive in the years ahead.
A lot can change in the next
ten years, but without knowing
where we are going, we will never
get there. As Catholic Health
begins its next decade of service,
your contributions to our healing
mission are more important than
ever before.
Thank you for sharing this
journey with us and for the
vital role you play in helping us
achieve our vision for the future.
• Honors and New
Appointments
• Career Pathway
Grant
• Continuing Care
Maria Foti
Senior Vice President
Strategic Planning
• HR Benefit News
• HealthConnection
Class Schedule
• CHS Photos

Our Roots, Our Mission, Our Promise of Excellence
2
Living
our
Mission
Making a Difference
Around the World
There are dozens of Catholic Health associates and
physicians who participate in medical missions around
the world. They’ve traveled to places like Africa, Brazil,
Jamaica, and Guatemala to help those in need. And, according
to all accounts, they’ve all returned with a gift
far greater than what they gave.
Mark Hoeplinger, M.D., an Ear, Nose & Throat
Specialist at Mercy Hospital, recently returned from
Guatemala where he helped set up a hearing clinic in a
remote village. It was Dr. Hoeplinger’s fourth medical
mission since 2006 with an organization called Faith in
Practice.
“There are five ENT’s for 12 million people in Guatemala,
which puts things into perspective,” said Dr.
Hoeplinger pictured below with his wife Christine
Hoeplinger, D.D.S., who joined him on two missions.
“Watching children with hearing loss react to hearing
for the first time has been
such a rewarding and
touching experience.”
Another mission team
led by John Davanzo,
Catholic Health Senior
VP of Regional Development,
just came back
from working in impoverished
neighborhoods
in Jamaica. For the past
eight years, Davanzo, pictured below with a group of
Jamaican children, has served as a volunteer team leader
for Global Health Ministries (GHM), sponsored by
Catholic Health East.
Other team members included: Mary Ormond, Laboratory
Technician, Mercy Ambulatory Care Center;
Jennifer Boncore, RN, Surgery Department, Sisters
Hospital; and Anthony Bonner, M.D., retired Cardiologist,
Mercy Hospital, and his wife Catherine Bonner,
retired pharmacist and Mercy Hospital volunteer.
Steve Piesczynski, Director of Facilities and Engineering
at Mercy Hospital, went on his second mission
trip to Peru with GHM in 2008. During his first trip, he
helped install power converters to operate surgical equipment.
“We need volunteers from many backgrounds,
not just patient care, to be successful,” he stressed.
There are many others across the system like Drs.
Andrew Cappuccino, Jeffrey
Mielman and Joshua Usen of
Kenmore Mercy Hospital who
have contributed their time and
talents to medical missions. St.
Joseph Hospital orthopedist,
John Moscato, M.D. was so
moved by his mission trips to
Ecuador and Guyana that he
and his wife, Beth Moscato,
Ph.D., an epidemiologist and
University of Buffalo faculty
member, conduct an instructional program for UB students
interested in medical missions.
And, it seems once you’re hooked, you’re really
hooked. Lynne Mason-Wicks, an Occupational Therapist
at McAuley-Seton Home Care, will be going on
her second medical mission to Jamaica in January 2010.
“During my first trip, I remember how overwhelming it
was and I wasn’t sure if we were even making a dent,”
she said. “But when I saw the children cheering for us
and waving good-bye as we left, I knew we had made a
difference.”
Catholic Health associates who are interested in applying
for medical missions can contact the Mission Integration
leaders at their respective ministries.
Catholic Health Tops in
Upstate Health Systems
For the second consecutive year, Catholic
Health has been named to the list of the
most efficient integrated healthcare networks
in the nation, the 2009 SDI IHN
100. The ranking, conducted by SDI Health,
a national healthcare data and consulting
firm, recognizes the 100 most integrated
networks out of 570 health systems graded
annually on operations, quality, scope of services
and efficiency.
Catholic Health was raked 64th overall
and in the top 10 in the Northeast Region,
placing ahead of all other health systems
in Upstate New York. To achieve the rating,
Catholic Health had perfect scores in
several categories including: integration and
outpatient utilization; and strong scores in
the services and access and hospital utilization
sections of the survey.
“We’re very proud of our associates and
Earth Day – Do something good for the planet on April
22. Look for more information at our ministries for Earth
Day activities.
Electronics Recycling Day – Spring is a great time to
clean up around the house. But what do you do with those
old PCs, monitors, VCR players and other electronics. It’s illegal to just throw them away
in the trash and bad for the environment. Catholic Health has a great solution.
On Saturday, May 30 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Appletree Business Park, Catholic
Health will hold an “Electronics Recycling Day” for associates, physicians and volunteers.
You’ll be able to get rid of unwanted electronics in your home and protect the environment.
Catholic Health Go Green volunteers, in cooperation with Regional Computer Recycling
and Recovery of Rochester, will accept unwanted personal electronic equipment from your
home. This event is open to our entire Catholic Health family.
Food Drive – We’ll also be collecting non-perishable food items for the WNY Food
Bank at the Electronics Recycling Day event, so it’s a double win for our community!
Look for details coming soon and gather up your old unwanted electronics. Many thanks
to David Rhoads of the Catholic Health IT Department for heading up this great project.
Green Tip From David Rhoads, Catholic Health IT
A little research from Dave shows you can save up to 95% in power consumption by
switching your PC and monitor to “standby” when not use. Of course you can save 100% by
just shutting them off.
Having a baby is a special and exciting
time for new parents. That’s why Catholic
Health is working to create a more comfortable,
private and home-like environment for
its maternity patients at Sisters of Charity
Hospital and Mercy Hospital of Buffalo.
Sisters Hospital’s Special BirthPlace is
undergoing a $1 million face lift. The construction
project includes the renovation of
all patient rooms into private rooms with
private showers. There will also be two “Special
Beginnings Suites” patients can choose
during their stay for an additional cost.
These new suites, pictured above, will have
a 32” flat screen TV; refrigerator stocked
with refreshments; coffeemaker with specialty
coffees, teas and hot chocolate; a pullout
sleeper sofa for a guest to stay overnight;
wireless internet access; free telephone and
television service; and a special gift basket
full of Crabtree & Evelyn bath and body
Catholic Health Sponsors
Electronics Recycling Day
Special Beginnings
physicians for all their hard
work this past year in moving
Catholic Health up 32
places on the list,” said Joe
McDonald, president and
CEO of Catholic Health. “We are in the
company of some very strong health systems
and this recognition is an affirmation of our
quest to improve our processes, access and
quality for the patients we serve.”
In addition to the national recognition,
Catholic Health’s SDI rating is good news
for area patients. “It’s one more indicator
that we are moving into the ranks of the best
performing hospital systems in the nation,
which has always been one of our objectives,”
McDonald continued. “For our community,
it simply means the highest quality
care and a better overall patient experience.”
products for mom, along with goodies for
baby. Renovation plans also include a special
bereavement suite for parents who have experienced
a loss.
Mercy Hospital’s Family BirthPlace recently
opened a new family waiting area,
pictured below, which is the first phase of
a $1.8 million renovation project. Plans
also include converting all patient rooms
into private rooms, including five “Celebration
Suites and a bereavement suite. Mercy’s
home-like “Birthing Rooms” are fully
equipped for labor, delivery and recovery;
and four include Jacuzzi whirlpool tubs, giving
moms a higher level of comfort and relaxation
before delivery.
Renovations of the new private rooms and
suites at Sisters and Mercy hospitals should
be completed in the next few months.
www.chsbuffalo.org

Our Roots, Our Mission, Our Promise of Excellence
Catholic Health Home Care
Opens New Pharmacy Service
Catholic Health Home Care has opened
its own free-standing pharmacy to better
meet the home infusion needs of its patients
throughout Western New York.
“This is a new business for us, but not a
new service,” explains Joyce Markiewicz,
President & CEO of Catholic Health
Home Care. “We have been providing home
infusion services for over 13 years, contracting
with an independent pharmacy. Over
the last few years, however, we have seen a
marked increase in our home infusion business,
so it made sense to establish our own
pharmacy and provide a greater continuity
of care for our patients.”
The greatest challenge for Home Care
was finding the right space to launch its new
pharmacy. With limited space at its home
base at the Appletree Business Park, Home
Care looked to its current pharmacy vendor
– American Home Patient – who was interested
in transferring ownership of its infusion
pharmacy located at 6350 Transit Road
in Depew.
Home Care purchased the pharmacy
business in early February, and after making
minor renovations to the site reopened
under Catholic Health Home Care in April.
John Russell, a Clinical Pharmacist with 15
years of home infusion experience, has been
named Pharmacy Director. Several former
associates of American Home Patient have
Home Care’s new Infusion Pharmacy is open for business.
Pictured from left to right are Scott Keller, Steve Szuder,
and Jane Rossi, Pharmacy technicians; Joyce Markiewicz,
Home Care President & CEO; Paul Bembenista, Pharmacist;
and John Russell, Pharmacy Director.
also joined the Home Care pharmacy staff
providing needed experience and continuity.
“This is a great opportunity for Home
Care to provide an enhanced level of service
to our patients, referring physicians and
nursing staff by creating a seamless point
of entry for all our home infusion needs,”
Markiewicz added. “It also creates a new
business line for Home Care with exciting
growth opportunities.”
With additional space at the pharmacy
site, Home Care will also be moving its Billing
Department, Home Response Service
and Telemonitoring Center to the Transit
Road location.
New Interventional Radiology Suite
Supports Growth at Kenmore Mercy
With the opening of a new Interventional Radiology Suite at Kenmore Mercy Hospital,
doctors are now better equipped to treat some of the area’s most critical and complex cases.
The new high-tech procedure room, outfitted with the latest radiographic equipment to
provide patients with superior care and comfort, was unveiled during a blessing ceremony
at the hospital on February 10.
“This new Interventional Radiology Suite offers patients a minimally invasive way of
treating critical conditions, such as vascular disease, obstructed kidneys and bile ducts, uterine
fibroids, vertebral fractures, and stroke,” said Dr. Shadishiv Shenoy, Director of Interventional
Radiology at Kenmore Mercy. “The result is rapid diagnosis and treatment, and
ultimately improved patient outcomes.”
The addition of the new suite supports the double digit growth that Kenmore Mercy has
seen in interventional radiology procedures over the last six years. Located on the first floor
in the hospital’s Radiology Department, the Interventional Radiology Suite allows for easy
access from Kenmore Mercy’s Emergency Department in critical situations.
“Today’s Interventional Radiology procedures are replacing many surgical procedures
that once required large incisions and long hospital stays,” said Dr. Richard Kessler, Chairman
of Imaging Services at Kenmore Mercy. “Thanks to this new radiographic technology,
we can ‘see’ inside the body through tiny incisions using sophisticated imaging cameras and
slender instruments.”
Funding for the $1.6 million project included a $500,000 New York State grant secured
by former State Senator Mary Lou Rath through the Kenmore Mercy Foundation.
Franciscan Sisters of
St. Joseph Leave
Lasting Legacy
The Franciscan Sisters of St. Joseph opened St. Joseph
Intercommunity Hospital on September 8, 1960 on 27
acres of land along Harlem Road in Cheektowaga. The
local community, with its strong Polish heritage, quickly
embraced the 103-bed hospital and watched it grow as
more families migrated to Buffalo’s Eastern suburbs. On
April 1, 2009, St. Joseph Hospital began a new chapter in
its service to the community as Sisters of Charity Hospital,
St. Joseph Campus.
“St. Joseph Hospital’s greatest strength has always been
its people,” said Sr. Judith Elaine Salzman, FSSJ, General
Minister of the Franciscan Sisters of St. Joseph. “We
would like to recognize our hospital family – past and
present – for the dedicated care and compassion they have
always shown our patients. They are what make the hospital
truly special. We would also like to thank our friends
and neighbors for their support over the years, especially
in our successful bid to save the hospital from closure.”
As a founding sponsor of the Catholic Health System,
the Franciscan Sisters of St. Joseph have played an important
role in preserving and protecting Catholic healthcare
in our community. “We owe a debt of gratitude to
the Franciscan Sisters of St. Joseph for their enduring
legacy and for touching the lives of so many individuals
and families through their healthcare ministry” said Joe
McDonald, President & CEO of Catholic Health. “Their
commitment and sacrifice will never be forgotten as we
continue their healing works as part of Sisters Hospital.”
As the Franciscan Sisters of St. Joseph transferred sponsorship
of St. Joseph Hospital to Catholic Health and its
remaining religious sponsors, which includes the Daughters
of Charity, the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas and
the Diocese of Buffalo, a special stone sculpture of the
familiar Franciscan symbol – the Tau – was enshrined in
the hospital’s Victory Garden as a lasting reminder of the
Sisters’ contributions to Catholic Health and their devotion
to the local community.
“The Tau represents salvation, hope,
change, goodness, love of God and
the service we bring in His name
to those we encounter in our daily
lives – all attributes that mark
the continued journey of this
fine hospital,” Sr. Judith continued.
“We know all that we have
built and nurtured will continue to
grow and flourish as part of Sisters
Hospital and Catholic Health.”
The Sisters in residence at the St. Joseph Campus will
continue to serve in support and ministerial roles within
the hospital, while the religious order of the Franciscan
Sisters of St. Joseph will focus their energies on their parish,
social service and education ministries, which includes
Immaculata Academy in Hamburg.
“In all things – Charity was the motto our foundress,
Mother Collete Hilbert, left as a lasting legacy for those
who followed in her footsteps,” Sr. Judith continued. “So
it seems perfectly fitting as we turn the page on this legacy,
we begin a new chapter in the hospital’s history as Sisters
of Charity Hospital, St. Joseph Campus.”
One Partnership, One Team:
Patient Safety Contest Runs Through June 1
Associates across Catholic Health were
invited to enter a special patient safety contest
to showcase their problem-solving skills
and build awareness about our commitment
to provide safe care.
Now that you have your team together
and submitted your entry to your site Quality
Department, the hard work begins. Are
you up to the challenge?
The Rules:
• l Teams must select a Joint Commission
patient safety goal that pertains to their
department/unit and work on a project
that reflects that patient safety goal.
• l The contest ends on June 1, 2009.
• l Prizes will be awarded for first, second
and third place from Continuing Care,
Primary Care and each acute care site.
How will projects be judged?
Projects will be judged on 5 categories:
1. Creativity
2. Project impact to patient
3. Ability to demonstrate positive outcomes
4. Evidence of teamwork on the project
5. Evidence of utilization of best practices
For details, contact your site Quality Department.
Catholic Health recently presented some “BIG” proceeds
from the Believe In Giving Campaign. Pictured from left to
right are: Bart Rodrigues, Catholic Health Senior Vice President,
Mission Integration; Joe McDonald, Catholic Health
President & CEO; David Zapfel, Executive Director, Gerard
Place; Mark Zirnheld, Executive Director, Society of St.
Vincent de Paul; Michael Flynn, St. Vincent de Paul Board
President; and Mary E. Kienzle, Vice President Mission Integration,
Mercy Hospital. In the last Connections we reported
our two-year contribution was over $132,000. After some last
minute calculations the final total was over $143,000! Thank
you for your support.
www.chsbuffalo.org
3

Our Roots, Our Mission, Our Promise of Excellence
For many seniors, living independently can be a difficult
challenge. In some cases, the only option available may
be a traditional nursing home. But what if there was an
alternative to traditional nursing home care that would
provide all the same services, while allowing area seniors
to remain in their own homes?
Now, thanks to a new state and federally-funded program
called PACE (Program of All-inclusive Care for the
Elderly) many seniors are able to live independently while
receiving needed services in a community-based setting.
Catholic Health is sponsoring the area’s newest PACE
program called LIFE – Living Independently For Elders
– soon to be open at the OLV Senior Neighborhood in
Lackawanna.
Catholic Health LIFE is a comprehensive program that
provides a wide range of services in the senior’s home, as
well as in the newly remodeled
“LIFE Center” on
the OLV campus. As part
of the program, Catholic
Health LIFE coordinates
all services and becomes
the primary caregiver for
seniors who voluntarily
enroll in the program.
“Our goal is to keep individuals in their own homes for
as long as possible,” said Thomas Schifferli, Executive
Director of the LIFE program. “We do this by working
closely with family members and by providing all medically
necessary services an individual may need to maintain
their independence.”
Available services include outpatient medical care, hospital
care, rehabilitation and therapeutic services, nursing
care, social work, nutritional services, institutional longterm
care, home health aide services, dental care, mental
health services, eye care, podiatry services, and prescription
drug management. Transportation is also provided to
and from appointments and visits to the LIFE Center.
Participation in Catholic Health LIFE is completely
voluntary. The program is open to Erie County residents
age 55 or older who qualify for nursing home care but
choose to remain in their own home with assistance. Interested
participants must need the services of the program
for at least 120 days and be able to have their needs
safely met at home or in the LIFE Center. The cost of the
program is covered by Medicare and/or Medicaid. Private
pay options are also available.
“It’s no secret that people are living longer and Western
New York has one of the fastest growing senior populations
in the nation,” Schifferi added. “Through innovative
programs such as LIFE, Catholic Health is committed to
helping area seniors remain active and independent.”
Catholic Health LIFE is expected to open in the next
few months. For more information on this unique program,
call 819-5101 or visit www.chsbuffalo.org.
☛
4
Seniors Live LIFE at
Their Own PACE
Save the Date...
Corporate Challenge – June 4
Creighton Model of Natural
Family Planning Sessions
Sisters of Charity Hospital • May 30, June 27, and August 22
Mercy Hospital • May 9, June 10, and July 18
Mt. St. Mary’s Hospital • May 21, June 18, and July 16
Call Mary Zablocki at 862-1944 for more details.
Nazareth Campus Breathes New Life
into Former Nursing Home
With the closing of Nazareth Nursing
Home in 2007, Catholic Health created
“Nazareth Campus” and an opportunity to
breathe new life into this beautiful facility
located on North Street in the city’s historic
Allentown district. Already home to
Catholic Health’s Continuing Care corporate
offices and the Continuing Care Foundation,
the building’s remaining administrative
offices and a former nursing home
unit are being renovated to accommodate
additional corporate offices from throughout
Catholic Health.
“We have many corporate departments taking up valuable space in our hospitals – space
that is needed to expand clinical programs and services,” said David Vitka, Vice President
of Facility Planning for Catholic Health. “By moving these departments to the Nazareth
Campus we are creating a centralized location for many corporate functions while providing
a valuable re-use for the Nazareth property.”
Renovations began in the fall of 2008 to transform the resident rooms into functional
office space. Catholic Health corporate offices that will be moving to the Nazareth Campus
over the next month include Facility Planning & Property Management, Care Connection,
Quality & Patient Safety, and Materials Management.
Nazareth Nursing Home became part of Catholic Health in 2001. “We owe a great
deal to the Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Conception, who established Nazareth
Nursing Home in 1947 and took such great care of this facility over the years,” said Chris
Kluckhohn, President & CEO of Continuing Care. “After the Berger Commission forced
the closure of the nursing home, we knew there was an opportunity to create something
positive on this campus that would help support our mission for years to come.”
IT Commits to S.A.F.E.
Mercy Hospital Renovates
5 East Patient Care Unit
A blessing ceremony was recently held for
Mercy Hospital’s 5 McAuley East Patient Care
Unit which underwent a complete makeover, creating
a more modern and efficient care environment
for patients and staff. This major renovation
project began in the fall of 2008 when the entire
unit was temporarily relocated to the 5th floor of
the Main Building, in space previously occupied
by the Mercy Nursing Facility.
According to Bob Hawks, Construction Manager
at Mercy Hospital, all the renovations were
made with direct input from the staff. “We actually
created the design and layout of the nursing
station from suggestions made by our associates
who work on the unit everyday,” he said.
Mercy’s Facility Services Department pitched
in by painting all the rooms and installing new
Associates at the Nazareth Campus came together for a
welcoming ceremony in the facility chapel on March 23.
Not long after assuming the role of Chief
Information Officer for Catholic Health,
Dr. Michael Galang introduced his IT
team to the concept of S.A.F.E. (which
stands for Support, Access, Function, and
Experience).
Focusing on each of these elements increases
awareness among our IT associates
of the vital role they play in delivering quality
care to our patients. Our IT associates
have embraced the concept and are bringing
it to life through a variety of new programs,
processes, and initiatives. Here are just a
few ways in which S.A.F.E. is improving
IT quality and service throughout Catholic
Health:
Support – A team has been assembled to
review the Help Desk ticket intake to help
streamline the process and make it more efficient
and effective for everyone involved.
Access - our Networking staff has teamedup
with Soarian HIM/EDM (Health Information
Management/Enterprise Data
Management) to take a closer look at remote
access options for Physicians.
Function - We have successfully established
a Soarian Clinical Team User Group.
Nurses from across the system meet monthly
to provide feedback on the clinical documentation
application.
Experience - An extensive “call back”
initiative has begun under the leadership of
Clay Bozard and Jay Bradway. We are reaching
out to associates who have completed
tickets with the Help Desk to ask “how we
did.” Through the process, we hope to find
out what worked well and what didn’t to enhance
customer service.
IT’s commitment to improving customer
service is also evident in a number of other
initiatives that are underway, including the
IT Liaison Service, IT Rounding, and the
Mobile Help Desk.
Celebrating Mercy Hospital’s new 5 East Patient
Care Unit are (from left to right), Deborah Spino,
RN, Charge Nurse; Florence Reed, Unit Clerk; Bob
Hawks, Mercy Hospital Construction Manager;
Pauline Blake, RN, Nurse Manager; and Steve Piesczynski,
Director of Facilities and Engineering.
corner guards and cove base. The Environmental Services Department put the finishing
touches on the project by cleaning the entire unit and polished the floors.
Highlights of the project include a modern and efficiently-designed nurses’ station, a
new physicians’ work room, and remodeled associate lounge, medication room, and kitchen.
The patient rooms feature new furnishings including patient beds and chairs, over-the-bed
tables, and bedside cabinets. Other features of the project include the addition of two newly
furnished hospice rooms, sconce lighting in the corridors, and new flooring in the nurses’
station, physicians’ work room and the hospice unit corridor.
www.chsbuffalo.org

Our Roots, Our Mission, Our Promise of Excellence
A Strong Foundation for Mercy’s New ER
In recent weeks, construction crews have
been working on laying the foundation for
Mercy Hospital’s new Emergency Department.
This phase of the project, which is
nearly 50 percent complete, includes excavating
the construction site, leveling the
ground with fill, placing steel reinforcements,
constructing forms for the foundation
walls, and pouring concrete for the
foundation walls.
This month, plans call for the demolition
of the ambulance garage in the front of the
hospital. Mercy Hospital officials and Pike
Construction managers will also be reviewing
electrical plans with National Grid, as
well as reviewing and addressing other utility
needs for the new addition.
With receipt of the New York State Department
of Health construction permit in
February, bids have gone out for the general
contractor, fire protection system, plumbing,
HVAC system and electrical work. It is estimated
that bids will be awarded to the contractors
by mid-April. The erection of the
steel for the new addition is also targeted to
begin in April.
Just What the Doctor Ordered
Sisters of Charity Hospital, Buffalo’s first hospital, is getting ready for a face lift and it’s
just what the doctor ordered. Plans are being finalized for a $7 million expansion and renovation
of the hospital’s Emergency Department (ED).
Following in the footsteps of St. Joseph’s new ER and Mercy Hospital’s new ER addition
currently under construction, Sisters new Emergency Department will have 29 private
treatment rooms with cardiac monitoring and electronic medical record capability. That’s
an increase of eight treatment rooms over
the department’s current capacity.
In addition to all private treatment rooms,
there will be one room dedicated to providing
enhanced comfort and privacy for sexual
assault patients. Along with more clinical
space, there will be a staff room for Emergency
Medical Service providers who bring
patients to Sisters Hospital. The ED Radiology
area will also be expanded to house new
Seimen’s imaging technology including a
new CT Scanner.
For added comfort and convenience, the
new Emergency Department will also feature a covered ambulance entrance, pictured
above, and new covered street-level “walk-in” entrance to protect patients from inclement
weather. For enhanced safety, the ED renovation project will also include a self-contained
decontamination room adjacent to the ambulance entrance, to protect other patients from
possible exposure.
The Sisters Hospital Emergency Department renovation project is being funded in part
by New York State Heal Grant funds and the Sisters Hospital Foundation. The first phase
of the project is slated to begin in May and be completed in the Spring of 2011.
CHS University offers over 70 courses that assist leaders
in improving their performance and thus enhancing their
ability to carry out the CHS Mission. Below is a sampling
of upcoming courses. Courses are specifically tailored to
the needs of our associates – clinical, non-clinical, management,
supervisory, financial, operational, customer service,
mission enhancement, and more.
All classes are held at Appletree Suite 8A
Staff Development unless noted otherwise.
Introduction to Recruiting/Selection Criteria &
Behavioral Based Interviewing (CHS 315a&c)
Wed., April 29, 9 a.m. - noon
Manager Core Curriculum Program (CHS 394)
Thurs., April 30, 8 a.m. - noon
New! Infection Control for Leaders (CHS 317)
Mandatory NY State Infection Control Training Program
Thurs., April 30, 9 a.m. - noon
Public Speaking/Presentations for Leaders (CHS 351)
Wed., May 5, 9 a.m. - noon
Servent Leadership in the Healing Ministry (CHS 377b)
Thurs., May 7, 9 a.m. - noon
Manager Core Curriculum Program (CHS 394)
Fri., May 8, 8 a.m. - noon
Legal Guidelines for Leaders (CHS 308)
Tues., May 12, 9 a.m. - noon
Documentation: Your Legal Defense (CHS 302)
Wed., May 13, 1 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Managing In Union Environment (CHS 339)
Tues., May 19, 9 a.m. - noon
Setting Performance Expectations (CHS 334)
Thurs., May 21, 9 a.m. - noon
Manager Core Curriculum Program (CHS 394)
Fri., May 22, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
New! Drive Performance (CHS 307)
Wed., May 27, 9 a.m. - noon
Customer Service for Frontline Associates (CHS 324)
Thurs., May 28, 9 a.m. - noon
Communications III (CHS 385a)
Fri., May 29, 9 a.m. - noon
For more information or help with registering for classes
email mwillia@chsbuffalo.org or call 706-2544.
Corporate Compliance Offers
Protection Against Retaliation
Excellence is one of Catholic Health’s core
values. It is not just a word but an action to
be taken. Excellence drives us to support the
Catholic Health Mission. It’s about doing
the right thing, to the very best of our abilities,
or seeking ways to do it even better. It
also means when things that don’t measure
up, we report our concerns to our managers
or supervisors.
It’s clear our associates have a duty to report
actual or potential violations of our organization’s
Code of Ethics, Code of Conduct,
policies and procedures, or Federal and
State regulations. Catholic Health administration
supports and encourages this important
responsibility among our associates.
When an associate reports an incident
or concern in good faith they are protected
from retaliation. Catholic Health administration
will thoroughly investigate any allegations
of retaliation against a colleague for
speaking up, and will protect and/or restore
the rights of anyone who raises a genuine
concern. Anyone who engages in retribution/retaliation
of an associate who reports
in good faith a compliance concern is subject
to discipline, up to and including dismissal
on the first offense.
When setting the bar for excellence in
your work, it is important to ask questions
and report any suspected wrongdoings. If
you wish additional information, the policy
on Non-Retaliation (LS-CHS-CC-10) can
be found in Compliance 360. As always,
our Compliance Officer, Anne Mason, can
be reached at 821-4469 and is available to
answer your questions and hear your concerns.
www.chsbuffalo.org
5

Our Roots, Our Mission, Our Promise of Excellence
Home Care
News & Events
LOVE Award & Kudos Winners
Stephanie Nawrocki, Physical Therapist for
McAuley Seton Home Care, and Donna Daniels,
Home Health Aide for Mercy Home Care,
were the LOVE Award recipients for the 4th
quarter of 2008. Stephanie and Donna were presented
with their certificates and gifts during a
special reception held on February 19.
Linda Jeffrey is the winner of the KUDOS
movie passes for the month of January.
Upcoming Events
The Annual Home Care Breakfast honoring
2008 LOVE Award recipients and nominees will
be held on Friday, May 8, 2009 in the Home Care
Conference Center. The program will include an
introduction of the honorees and remarks by
Joyce Markiewicz, President and CEO of Catholic
Health Home Care.
Mission Activities
The Mission/Spiritual Care Department sponsored
a Lunch and Learn focusing on nutrition
and healthy eating on March 3 in the Home Care
Conference Center. Theresa Amborski, RD,
CNSD, Clinical Nutrition Manager at Mercy
Hospital, shared information on healthy eating.
Many Catholic Health associates who work at the
Appletree Business Park attended the program.
The Home Care Mission Committee sponsored
a Spring Auction/Bake Sale on March 26.
Many unique baskets, items and gift cards were
auctioned off during the event, which also included
a delicious array of baked goods contributed
by Home Care associates and friends. Proceeds
from this event go directly to the Home Care
Mission Fund which is used to assist clients, their
families/caregivers, and associates in need. Many
thanks to everyone who supported this event.
Weight Management
Program for Children
Nutrition, self-esteem building and positive
body image are issues that affect many children.
To help instill positive behaviors and healthy eating
habits, Catholic Health is sponsoring a free
weight management program especially geared
for children and pre-teens.
The Shapedown Family Weight Management
Program is designed for children 8-12 years of age
and their parents. The program consists of eight,
two-hour sessions conducted over five weeks.
The introductory session will be held on April 21
from 6 – 8 p.m. at the Catholic Health Education
Center, Suite 8A, located in the Appletree Business
Park at 2875 Union Road in Cheektowaga.
Shapedown is the nation’s leading weight management
program for children and pre-teens. It
effectively supports families in creating an active
lifestyle and a healthy, but not depriving, diet.
Parents learn how to tune-up their nurturing
skills to curb their child’s emotional overeating
and sharpen their limit-setting skills to guide
their children towards a healthier lifestyle. Session
topics include: nutrition, self-esteem building,
positive body image, exercise, goal setting,
and healthy behaviors.
The remaining sessions will be held from 6 –
8 p.m. at the Catholic Health Education Center
on April 23, 28 and 30 and May 5, 7, 12 and 17.
Registration is required and space is limited. For
more information or to register for the Shapedown
Program, call Catholic Health’s Health-
Connection at 447-6205.
“Clearing the Air” at Sisters Hospital
Sisters of Charity Hospital took an important step in the fight against heart and lung disease
by becoming a tobacco-free campus on Friday, February 13, 2009, just in time for Valentine’s Day.
Using the day as an opportunity to celebrate “healthy hearts,” all tobacco use is now prohibited
on the Sisters Hospital campus, including all buildings, off site facilities,
parking lots, vehicles, grounds, and adjacent sidewalks.
This new Sisters Hospital Tobacco-free Policy will include all visitors
and staff throughout Catholic Health, who will be asked to refrain from
smoking while on the Sisters Hospital campus. “It’s our responsibility
to provide a safe and healthy environment for everyone who works, visits,
or receives care at our hospital,” says Peter U. Bergmann, President
& CEO of Sisters Hospital. “We are hoping that those who smoke will
use the new policy as an opportunity to quit smoking for good.”
As part of the transition to a tobacco-free campus, Sisters Hospital is
offering free smoking cessation classes for associates as well as information
on free nicotine patches, gum and lozenges through the New York
State Smokers’ Quitline at 1-866-NYSQUITS (1-866-697-8487) or
www.nysmokefree.com.
Sisters Hospital is joining a growing trend of health providers across the country, as well as in
Catholic Health, who are adopting tobacco-free policies. Kenmore Mercy Hospital went smokefree
in 2008, while Catholic Health’s Continuing Care Division and the Nazareth Campus went
smoke-free in January. Mercy Hospital will be going smoke-free on July 4.
“I want to thank everyone for their cooperation as we ‘clear the air’ at Sisters Hospital,” Bergmann
added.
New York State Grant Helps Catholic Health
Promote Smoke-Free Activities
Helping Catholic Health become a healthier
place to work and our community a better place
to live is the goal behind a grant from the NYS
Department of Heath Tobacco Control Program.
HealthConnection, Catholic Health’s
patient and community education program,
received the $9,310 grant in August to support
smoking cessation programs throughout our
system and the local community.
“We have three Catholic Health facilities –
Kenmore Mercy, Sisters Hospital and the Nazareth
Campus – that are now completely smokefree,”
says Sandy Spencer, Director of Patient/
Community Education. “This effort requires a
great deal of planning, education and support
to be successful. Thanks to the Tobacco Control
Grant we have been able to purchase educational
tools and smoking cessation materials to
support our smoke-free activities.”
As part of the grant Catholic Health will:
• Develop workgroups to address smoking
cessation activities across the system
Foundation News...
• Provide resources to promote smoke-free
campuses among our ministries
• Offer smoking cessation programs for patients
and staff
• Implement community smoking cessation
programs at multiple sites
• Create training programs for physician liaisons
to engage the physician community
• Provide smoking cessation education sessions
for primary care physicians and staff
• Provide middle school students with information
on the harmful effects of smoking
through the CHAMPS program
• Incorporate tobacco cessation information
into medical grand rounds.
“We’d like to thank the New York State
Department of Health for recognizing our
commitment to reverse the negative effects of
smoking in our community,” Spencer continued.
“Through our efforts, we hope to continue ‘clearing
the air’ throughout Catholic Health and our
community.”
Mercy Hospital of Buffalo raised over $700 to support the American
Heart Association (AHA) during its “Wear Red Day” on February 13.
The event also helped celebrate the 7th anniversary of the opening of
the Catholic Health Heart Center at Mercy Hospital. In addition to
free blood pressure checks and healthy snacks, volunteers from Cardiac
Services and Patient Care Services sold Red Dress pins and held a
Valentine’s Day Basket raffle to benefit the AHA. Kenmore Mercy also
hosted “Wear Red Day” events on February 13.
The Continuing Care Foundation is entering
the home stretch of its “Victory for Seniors”
Capitol Campaign to support the redevelopment
of the OLV Senior Neighborhood. To
date, nearly $1.85 million has been raised for
the project, which includes the Victory Ridge
Senior Apartments, the Mercy Nursing Facility
at OLV, the Living Independently for Elders
PACE Program, the “Main Street” concourse
and Father Baker Gaslight Park.
“A little over $100,000 is all that remains before
we can claim victory,” says Aimee Gomlak,
Vice President of Strategic Redevelopment for
Continuing Care and Interim Executive Director
of the Continuing Care Foundation. “We
hope to announce later this year that the capital
campaign has reached its goal.”
To help support these efforts and other fundraising
programs, the Continuing Care Foundation
is pleased to announce the appointment of
Marion Grimes, Sharon Dickinson, and Kristine
Eimiller to its fundraising staff.
Marion Grimes, BA, MSW, MSEd, has joined
the Continuing Care Foundation to help develop
major gifts and other forms of planned giving.
Her experience as an Administrator and Development
Officer at OLV Homes of Charity and
Director of Development and Gift Planning for
the Sisters of Mercy, provides a unique background
and special expertise to help expand giving
opportunities for the Continuing Care Foundation.
She is a member of the WNY Planned
Giving Consortium, Leave a Legacy-WNY, and
the Partnership for Philanthropic Planning.
Also joining the Continuing Care Foundation
team are Sharon Dickinson, Development Coordinator,
and Kristine Eimiller, Administrative
Assistant. Sharon most recently served as Development
Assistant for Mercy Hospital of Buffalo.
Kristine previously worked in the Catholic
Health Corporate Office.
6
www.chsbuffalo.org

Around the System...
Russell Carlson, M.D., has been named
Chairperson of the Western New York
Cancer Coalition (WNYCC). The coalition
includes more than 60 area organizations
dedicated to reducing cancer rates and improving
outcomes for people with cancer.
The group is focusing on four areas of the
New York State Comprehensive Cancer
Control Plan – early detection, health promotion,
public policy and research.
• • •
Congratulations to the following members
of our Catholic Health family who have
been named to Business First’s “Healthcare
50” list: Carolyn Piver Dukarm, M.D.,
Center for Eating Disorders; Dennis Horrigan,
Executive Director of the Catholic
Independent Practice Association; Mark
Sullivan, Executive Vice President &
Chief Operating Officer, Catholic Health;
and Patricia Weeks O’Connor, Executive
Director of the OLV Senior Neighborhood.
These healthcare leaders will be featured in
Our Roots, Our Mission, Our Promise of Excellence
an upcoming issue of Business First highlighting
the achievements of individuals
who are making a difference in healthcare
in our community.
• • •
Mike Ruszaj, has been named Supervisor
of Office Services in the Facilities/Engineering
Department at Kenmore Mercy
Hospital. Mike has served in a per diem
role at the hospital for several months and
has 20 years of experience in Facilities operations
including Environmental Services,
Linen and Food Service.
• • •
Michael Wendel has been named Laboratory
Supervisor at Kenmore Mercy
Hospital. Mike comes to Catholic Health
with a broad base of experience in Laboratory
Services, serving as a clinical laboratory
technologist, senior medical technologist,
and laboratory manager. Mike is returning
to the Lab at Kenmore Mercy where he
worked from 1993 to 1999.
Catholic Health Partnering to
Implement Career Pathway Grant
by David Zapfel, Project Director Strategic Workforce Planning Department
Catholic Health is partnering with the
Buffalo and Erie County Workforce Investment
Board and other local employers and
educational programs to implement a new
Career Pathway Grant that that will prepare
individuals for employment in jobs that offer
advancement opportunities and career
ladders. This grant focuses primarily on occupations
in the healthcare field that provide
individuals with a clear, reliable path
for building skills and progressing up the
career ladder.
This partnership brings together expertise
in recruiting eligible candidates, training
resources, support services, placement assistance,
employment opportunities, and reinforcement
in the value of continuing along
a career pathway.
Targeted career pathways can begin at the
most basic level helping participants obtain
their GED and/or Work Readiness Credentials.
This will prepare individuals to begin
their climb up the career ladder by taking
healthcare positions in such areas as Nutritional
Services, Environmental Services, Patient
Support, and Patient Registration.
Once employed in these positions, associates
will be encouraged to begin the next
step in their professional development by
enrolling in training courses leading to a
variety of certifications and positions with
progressively higher pay. These positions include
Pharmacy Technician, Phlebotomist,
Certified Nursing Assistant, Medical Office
Assistant and Central Supply Technician.
Moving to higher paid, more skilled positions,
will encourage many individuals to
continue their education and obtain an Associates
Degree in occupations such as Radiologic
Technologist, Respiratory Therapy
Technician, Licensed Practical Nurse, MRI
Technologist, CT Scan Technologist, and
Medical Lab Technician.
To learn more about this exciting new opportunity,
and to see if you qualify, please
call 845-6003.
Around Continuing Care...
Residents and associates in Catholic
Health Long Term Care have been anxiously
waiting to get out and about in their
new vans. Thanks to generous grants, both
Father Baker Manor and St. Francis of Williamsville
recently took ownership of new
vehicles for transporting residents to community
activities and events.
On February 11th, a blessing was held
aboard the Father Baker Manor Van prior
to its inaugural trip taking residents to the
Gardenview Restaurant for lunch. The celebration
included lots of laughs and serenading
as everyone gathered for the blessing as
On February 9, Joe McDonald, President
& CEO of Catholic Health (pictured
right), visited the Mercy Nursing Facility
at OLV to present Catholic Health East’s
“Achieving New Heights in Resident Satisfaction
& Service Excellence” award to Pat
O’Connor, facility Administrator (pictured
center). The award recognizes the greatest
improvement in resident satisfaction among
all CHE long term care facilities surveyed
in 2008.
the van embarked on its maiden voyage.
In the very near future, the vans will display
exterior artwork bragging about Catholic
Health services. Safe travels!
John Herman
Joins Mercy Hospital
John Herman has been named Chief
Operating Officer at Mercy Hospital
of Buffalo. He has been with Catholic
Health for more than 12 years, most
recently serving as Chief Operating
Officer at Kenmore Mercy Hospital.
In recent years, John was instrumental
in more than $9 million in capital
projects at Kenmore Mercy, including the expansion of the
hospital’s Intensive Care Unit, the development of a new
Interventional Radiology Suite, and the recent opening of
the Williamsville Diagnostic Center. He also helped position
the hospital as a HealthGrades Center of Excellence
in Joint Replacement Surgery for the past three years.
Throughout his career with Catholic Health, he has
served in a variety of leadership positions, including Vice
President of Operations at Kenmore Mercy Hospital and
System Director of Health, Safety, Security and Environment
for Catholic Health. He also served as System Director
of Safety at Kenmore Mercy and Mercy Hospitals
from 1996 to 1999.
A Buffalo Business First “Forty Under 40”Award recipient,
John holds an Executive M.B.A. with Distinction
from the University of Buffalo. He is a member of
the American College of Healthcare Executives and the
Community Advisory Panel for the Town of Tonawanda.
He also serves as the Junior Leader and adult member of
the St. Vincent de Paul Society.
Catholic Health Executives
Named to Board Posts
Joe McDonald, President & CEO
of Catholic Health, has been elected
Treasurer of the Healthcare Association
of New York State (HANYS)
Board of Trustees. McDonald was
named to the Board in 2008 and also
serves on HANYS Solutions and the
Executive, Compensation and Audit
Committees. HANYS is the principal
advocate for more than 550 non-profit and public hospitals,
nursing homes, home care agencies, and other health
care organizations throughout New York State. HANYS’
volunteer Board of Trustees is responsible for managing
the Association’s activities.
John Davanzo, Senior Vice President
of Regional Development for
Catholic Health, has been named to
the Center for Hospice and Palliative
Care Board of Trustees. Through his
service on the board, John will help
advance the work of Hospice Buffalo
which provides medical care, as well
as emotional and spiritual support to patients with advanced
illness and their families. To help support this effort,
Catholic Health hospitals offers specially furnished
inpatient Hospice Rooms, providing a special level of
comfort and care to patients and their families.
Stanley Gasiewicz Earns
Management Certification
Stanley Gasiewicz, FACHE,
Chief Operating Officer of Continuing
Care, has been named a Fellow
of the American College of Healthcare
Executives (ACHE), the nation’s
leading professional society for
healthcare executives.
As a Fellow, Gasiewicz can now use
the FACHE credential after his name,
which signifies board certification in healthcare management.
ACHE Fellow status represents achievement of
the highest standard of professional development.
To obtain Fellow status, candidates must fulfill multiple
requirements, including passing a comprehensive
examination, meeting academic and experiential criteria,
earning continuing education credits and demonstrating
professional/community involvement. Fellows are also
committed to ongoing professional development and
must undergo recertification every three years.
www.chsbuffalo.org
7

Important news for associates, their families, and friends of the Catholic Health System
CONNECTIONS is produced by:
Catholic Health System
Creative Services Department
2875 Union Road, Suite 23-24
Cheektowaga, NY 14227
2875 Union Road, Suite 23-24
Cheektowaga, NY 14227
NON-PROFIT
ORGANIZATION
US POSTAGE
PAID
BUFFALO, NY 14240
PERMIT #420
Email submissions to:
knati@chsbuffalo.org and
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All submissions are subject to editing and
are published at the Editor’s discretion.
HR
Benefit News
Planning for Your Retirement is
More Important Than Ever Before
No matter what your age, planning for retirement is an important consideration.
Today, most people rely on a combination of Social Security
benefits, employer-sponsored retirement plans, and personal retirement
income such as 403(b) savings and other investments, to fund their retirement.
While the current economy has everyone proceeding with caution,
planning for your retirement is more important than ever before.
To help with your retirement planning, the Corporate HR Pension Department
is pleased to announce that personalized annual pension statements
will be distributed in early April to all eligible plan participants. The
pension statement is an important tool for retirement planning purposes
and should be used as you review your retirement goals.
The Corporate HR Pension Department continues to make every effort
to verify each associate’s work history to ensure that your records accurately
reflect all eligible service within Catholic Health. If you have any questions
regarding your statement please contact Nadelyn Roberts, Senior
Pension Analyst (nroberts@chsbuffalo.org) at (716) 706-2574 or Jennifer
Scalise, Pension Analyst (jscalise@chsbuffalo.org) at (716) 706-2581.
403(b) Retirement Savings Plan
The 403(b) Retirement Savings Plan is another way you can save money
for your retirement. Although 2008 was an unusual and difficult year
for our economy we encourage you to review the investment options you
elected under the plan and continue to invest whatever amount you feel
comfortable with so that you can reach your retirement goals.
The maximum amount you can contribute to the plan is $16,500 for this
year. If you are age 50 or older you may contribute an additional $5,500
for a total annual contribution of $22,000. If you would like to make any
changes to your investment lineup or the amount you currently contribute
to the plan, please contact Fidelity Investments via their website www.
fidelity.com/atwork or call their Benefits Center at (800) 343-0860.
HealthConnection
The Source for Answers to Your Healthcare Questions
Good health depends on finding reliable information and the right healthcare
services. Catholic Health makes getting that information as easy as
picking up the phone and calling (716) 447-6205.
Whether you are looking for a family physician or medical specialist, seeking
healthcare information or classes, or need to know more about community support
services, HealthConnection can help.
HealthConnection Health Education Programs
Programs are free unless noted otherwise and available to the public.
Space is limited, please call (716) 447-6205 to register.
On g o i n g Cl a s s e s:
(call for dates, locations, and to register)
Pre-Diabetes Education
Diabetes Education
Childbirth Class
CPR for Family and Friends
Babysitting Class
Breastfeeding Class
Gestational Diabetes
Smoking Cessation
Up c o m i n g Cl a s s e s:
(space is limited, please call to register)
Sun Safe
Appletree Business Park
May 4 at 6:30 p.m.
Is Total Knee or Hip
Replacement in Your Future?
Father Baker Manor
May 5 at 7 p.m.
Shapedown
Appletree Business Park
May 5, 7, 12, 19, 26 at 6:30 p.m.
Technological Advances in the
Treatment of Acute Stroke
Appletree Business Park
May 19 at 6:30 p.m.
Stroke Recognition & Prevention
Appletree Business Park
May 21 at 6:30 p.m.
Prime of Our Lives
Women’s Program
Williamsville Diagnostic Center
May 5, 13, 19 at 5:30 p.m.
Abnormal Uterine Bleeding
Appletree Business Park
June 2 at 6:30 p.m.
Visit www.chsbuffalo.org for an ongoing list of programs.
Look Well. Live Well. Feel Well.
8 www.chsbuffalo.org