Hughes Health News
For the Second Consecutive Year Hughes Health & Rehabilitation Recognized as a Best Nursing Home by U.S News & World Report
Washington D.C. – February 7, 2012 – For the second consecutive year, West Hartford-based Hughes Health & Rehabilitation has received a high ranking of five stars overall in U.S. News & World Report’s annual Best Nursing Homes, released today. U.S. News’s Best Nursing Homes recognizes top-rated homes in all 50 states and offers important guidance to families and healthcare providers caring for people in need of a nursing home.
“More than 3 million Americans will spend part of 2012 in a nursing home, and trying to decide under pressure which one is best isn’t easy,” says Avery Comarow, Health Rankings Editor. “Top-rated nursing homes are worth considering and deserve special recognition.”
U.S. News’s evaluation of nursing homes is based on data from Nursing Home Compare, a consumer website run by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The government agency sets and enforces standards for nursing homes (defined as facilities or portions of facilities enrolled in Medicare or Medicaid that provide 24-hour nursing care and other medical services). Homes earn an overall rating of one to five stars, as well as up to five stars in each of three underlying categories: health inspections, nurse staffing, and quality of care. U.S. News updates each nursing home’s ratings data quarterly.
Of more than 15,500 homes rated and profiled on the U.S. News website, Hughes Health & Rehabilitation was among the fewer than 1 in 8 that received a five-star overall rating in all four quarters of 2011.
“It is a great honor to be acknowledged for the second consecutive year as one of the best nursing homes in America by U.S. News & World Report,” said Mark Finkelstein, vice president of Hughes Health & Rehabilitation. “This honor, which comes as we complete our 50th year in business, is a testament to the Hughes’ workforce – a dedicated group of skilled health care professionals who provide great care to the residents of Hughes.”
Using the search tools available at http://health.usnews.com/senior-housing, consumers can identify homes in their state, city or ZIP code, tailor their search to see only non-profit homes or those that accept Medicaid insurance, or in other ways find the best fit.
Hughes Health & Rehabilitation, a family-owned and operated health care center for 50 years, provides quality care for those with chronic illness and for those needing convalescence and rehabilitation. Excellent healthcare, coupled with a genuine caring attitude are the hallmarks of Hughes Health, accredited for its long-term care by The Joint Commission and named one of the best nursing homes in the United States for two consecutive years by U.S. News & World Report and, for the fourth consecutive year, by the Consumers’ Research Council of America. For more information about Hughes Health & Rehabilitation, visit www.HughesHealth.com.
Hughes Health Employees Gather to Celebrate 50th Anniversary in West Hartford Home
Hughes Health & Rehabilitation recently celebrated its 50th anniversary at its landmark West Hartford nursing facility on Highland Street with an employee recognition luncheon. The event included a history about the building (originally constructed in 1900 as the family home of Henry C. Judd, a prominent Hartford businessman), a recap of Hughes’s recent accolades, and gifts to its more than 200 employees who help run the 170-bed facility. Hughes Health, recently honored as one of the best nursing homes in America by U.S. News & World Report, is a skilled nursing facility providing quality care for those with chronic illness and for those needing convalescence and rehabilitation. “The Judd Mansion started as a family homestead, was subsequently owned by a family, and now remains about family,” said Mark Finkelstein, vice president of Hughes Health & Rehabilitation. “Caring for loved ones family style is what we’re still all about.”
Photo: Spencer Sloan
Hughes Health Selected as a Health Care Hero for Participating in Heart Health Program
Hughes Health & Rehabilitation was a recipient recently of the Hartford Business Journal’s 2011 Health Care Heroes Award for its work to decrease preventable hospital readmissions for patients with heart failure.
The award was given to Hughes Health for advancing health care prevention through its participation in the Communities of Care initiative launched by Qualidigm, a Rocky Hill-based health care consulting and research organization.
“We are very honored to receive this award from the Hartford Business Journal because of our work with Qualidigm and our other partners in the Communities of Care initiative,” said Mark Finkelstein, vice president, Hughes Health & Rehabilitation. “Anytime we can educate, communicate and coordinate better heart health to prevent unnecessary hospital readmissions of patients with heart failure is time well spent. We have been active in Qualidigm’s Communities of Care effort throughout 2011, and look forward to our participation in 2012.”
Hughes was honored for its interdisciplinary approach in educating residents, their families and caregivers about heart health throughout the recovery process and beyond. Prior to discharge, Hughes assesses patients’ knowledge about their heart health to determine if there are areas in which patients need additional assistance to assure success following re-entry into the community. When they are discharged, patients are given a heart failure reference sheet that they can use as a resource for prevention and early intervention should heart failure symptoms reappear.
“We thank Hughes Health & Rehabilitation for its tireless efforts in collaboration with many other health care organizations to ensure that patients with heart failure being discharged from their respective communities’ hospitals are not readmitted due to failures in communication or care gap coordination between various settings,” said Marcia K. Petrillo, Qualidigm’s chief executive officer and a recognized visionary in the design and implementation of quality improvement initiatives. “As a cohesive community, we help to ensure that hospitalized patients with heart failure experience a smooth, safe transition as they travel the health care continuum. We know that improved processes can only lead to better health care outcomes.”
Santa Brings Smiles to the Children of Hughes Employees
Good ole’ Saint Nick made many youngsters smile when he paid a visit to the Christmas party for the children of Hughes Health employees. Excitement filled the air as each child received a gift from Santa and had the opportunity to decorate cookies, participate in crafts and games. “What better way to honor the year-round work of our Hughes employees than to honor their children,” said Mark Finkelstein, vice president of Hughes. “It’s management’s way of saying thank you to the caring and love Hughes employees bring to our residents every day of the year.” Enjoying their time with Santa are children of Hughes employees Jaiden and Makiyah.
Students from Hall High School Bring Smiles to Residents of Hughes Health & Rehabilitation
Many smiles filled the halls of Hughes Health & Rehabilitation recently when students from Hall High School visited the West Hartford facility to host a “Senior Senior Prom.” The senior students talked, laughed and danced with the seniors at Hughes in an afternoon of fun, caring and community. Josephine Ostrowski, pictured, a resident of Hughes and president of the Hughes Health Resident Council, was crowned Queen of the Senior Senior Prom. “We are so grateful for the energy and compassion the Hall High School students shared with our residents. I thank all of them, as well as Hall High’s event coordinator Judy Oulendsen, for bringing smiles to our residents,” said Mark Finkelstein, vice president of Hughes Health & Rehabilitation.
Photo: Hughes Health & Rehabilitation
Thanksgiving Day Meal Continues Tradition at Hughes
Residents, their family members and friends gathered at Hughes Health for the annual Thanksgiving Day meal. Turkey and all the trimmings were served to 155 residents, 75 guests and all staff on duty -- filling Hughes with smiles, laugher and gratitude. “We have many things to be grateful for at Hughes, least of which are our wonderful residents and their families and friends,” said Mark Finkelstein, vice president of Hughes. “The annual Thanksgiving Day meal means a lot to our Hughes employees, as well, who cherish this day as another opportunity to show how much they care about our residents. This is one of our most beloved traditions at Hughes. We look forward to doing it again next year,” said Mark.
An Open Letter to the Staff of Hughes Health & Rehabilitation
Hughes Health Selected as One of America’s Top Nursing Homes For Fourth Consecutive Year
For the fourth consecutive year, Hughes Health & Rehabilitation has been selected as one of America’s Top Nursing Homes by the Consumers’ Research Council of America (CRA).
CRA’s selection, called the Honor of Distinction and Excellence, was given to Hughes for its high ratings in three categories: performance in health inspections, staffing and quality measures. CRA bases its distinction on data collected by the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
“Receiving this award four years in a row is a testament to the daily commitment and difference Hughes employees make in the lives of our residents,” said Mark Finkelstein, vice president and administrator of Hughes. “I am very grateful to CRA for this award and to the Hughes staff for their exemplary work.”
The Consumers’ Research Council of America’s Guide to America’s Top Nursing Homes is information provided to the public by the official U.S. Government site regarding Medicare, www.medicare.gov.
Besides the four-year accolade by the Consumers’ Research Council of America, Hughes Health & Rehabilitation has been accredited for its long-term care by The Joint Commission and named one of the best nursing homes in the United States by U.S. News & World Report.
Hughes Receives Excellent Results in Recent Satisfaction Survey
As Hughes Health & Rehabilitation celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2011, it is a time we celebrate our history as a caring, committed healthcare center for those with chronic illness as well as those needing convalescence and rehabilitation.
Excellent healthcare, coupled with a genuine caring attitude are the hallmarks of Hughes Health. We have been named one of the best nursing homes in the United States by U.S. News & World Report and the Consumers’ Research Council of America. In addition, Hughes Health has earned accreditation for the quality of our long-term care from The Joint Commission and is a recipient of a national quality award from the American Health Care Association.
At the same time of our celebratory year, we look ahead to the next 50 years. Hughes Health is committed to continuously improve our operations for our residents, their families and our staff.
Recently, Hughes asked top research company My InnerView to conduct an independent satisfaction survey of our residents and families. And the results were excellent. In the area of overall satisfaction, 61 percent ranked Hughes as excellent and 38 percent ranked us as good.
One respondent commented, “You are to be commended for the cleanliness and upkeep of you facility. The nurses are excellent. I feel as if my mother has been well cared for and have always felt secure with her in your hands.”
I want to thank the residents and families who participated in this survey. Their feedback is vital to improving Hughes’ care giving and caregivers. And speaking about caregivers, I want to also thank the Hughes’ staff for their untiring efforts in providing the best care, 24/7, to those residents who call Hughes home.
All of us at Hughes are proud of our 50-year history serving the families in our area. We promise to continue our rich history by learning, adapting and implementing improvements to our care giving. It’s a proud tradition of Hughes Health & Rehabilitation since 1961.
Thank you,
Mark Finkelstein
Vice President
Hughes Health & Rehabilitation
Hughes Health & Rehabilitation Guests Enjoy Memorable Night at Rock Cats Nurse Appreciation Night
Forty Hughes Health & Rehabilitation residents, staff and family members enjoyed a beautiful summer night of baseball, kindness and generosity at the recent New Britain Rock Cats Nurse Appreciation Night at Rock Cats stadium in New Britain, CT.
The Hughes Health group was the guests of the Rock Cats and Stone Academy.
“We are so grateful for a wonderful night of Rock Cats baseball, made possible by the generosity of Stone Academy and the Rock Cats, who provided admission for our Hughes residents, staff and family members. It was a night they will never forget,” said Mark Finkelstein, vice president of Hughes Health & Rehabilitation.
In addition, American Medical Response assisted in providing transportation for the 40 guests from Hughes’ West Hartford facility to the Rock Cats stadium.
“I can’t think of a better example of a community coming together to provide a wonderful experience for us from Hughes. The game was exciting; the food and drink were excellent; the entire evening was summer fun at its finest. Thank you, Rock Cats, Stone Academy and American Medical Response,” said Mark.
Here are some photographs from the trip to the Rock Cats Stadium in New Britain.
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Hughes Health & Rehabilitation Receives Joint Commission Accreditation
Hughes Health and Rehabilitation, Inc. has earned accreditation for the quality of its long-term care from The Joint Commission. The Joint Commission is an independent, not-for-profit organization that accredits and certifies more than 19,000 health care organizations and programs in the United States.
Joint Commission accreditation and certification is recognized nationwide as a symbol of quality that reflects an organization’s commitment to meeting certain performance standards.
The Joint Commission accreditation decision was based on Hughes performing continuous safe, high-quality care, treatment and services.
“The Joint Commission’s accreditation is a major accomplishment for Hughes. It reflects our mission to provide exemplary care to all our residents,” said Mark Finkelstein, vice president of Hughes Health & Rehabilitation. “We are very grateful for The Joint Commission’s acknowledgment of the work we do for those entrusted into our care.
“Hughes’s voluntary participation in The Joint Commission’s accreditation process reflects our goal to continuously improve all aspects of our operation,” said Mark. “I want to thank all my co-workers at Hughes for their unyielding commitment and dedication to our residents. Our work is – and continues to be – a true team effort.”
Hughes Health Participates in Heart Health Program With Hartford Hospital
Hughes Health and Rehabilitation, Inc. is participating in a heart health initiative that utilizes an interdisciplinary team of caregivers at its West Hartford facility to prevent unnecessary hospital readmissions of patients with heart failure.
The program, developed under the leadership of Hartford Hospital, offers a collaborative disease management process with selected facilities that offer continuum of care, such as Hughes Health’s 170-bed rehabilitation center.
“Rehabilitation is part of our name and culture at Hughes, so our association with Hartford Hospital is a natural fit for us,” said Mark Finkelstein, vice president of Hughes Health & Rehabilitation. “We want our residents to live healthier, better lives.”
“We applaud Hughes Health and the other Communities of Care participants who are working to help improve the lives of patients with heart failure. Through our partnership, we’re working to prevent unnecessary readmissions to hospitals. Together, we’re making sure patients can rest and heal in the most comfortable environment and in the company of their loved ones,” said Beth Lawlor, case management director of Hartford Hospital.
Hughes interdisciplinary team of nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, nutritionists, pharmacist and other support services are specially trained to provide the necessary guidance and education to assist both long- and short-term residents dealing with congestive heart failure.
For Hughes’ long-term care residents, the program’s goals are to increase or maintain functional ability and increase independence and quality of life in enjoying day- to-day activities. For short term patients, the program strives to provide them and their families with education and tools for better management of their medical condition as they integrate back to their community.
“We are committed to make a difference in individual lives because we believe your loved ones are our family, too,” said Mark.
Hughes Health Selected as “Hartford’s Finest” by Hartford Advocate
Hughes Health & Rehabilitation was recently honored as the finest “Skilled Cared Rehabilitation Center” by the Hartford Advocate newspaper. The publication cited the Hughes’s staff as “a devoted group of trained nursing, rehabilitation and medical professionals who have spent 10, 20, even 30 years providing an environment conducive to the residents' recovery.”
“We are very honored by the Hartford Advocate’s recognition. Personally, I want to thank the wonderful Hughes staff for all they do to provide quality, personalized care to our residents seven days a week. Their dedication is outstanding,” said Mark Finkelstein, vice president of Hughes Health & Rehabilitation.
Hughes has also received national recognition for its quality care from the American Health Care Association and U.S. News & World Report. Also, for three consecutive years, Hughes has been rated a top nursing home by the Consumers’ Research Council of America.
To read more about Hughes’ honor from the Hartford Advocate, please go to the following link: http://www.proactiveresources.com/Media/BestofHartford_052511.htm
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| Hughes Health’s Elizabeth Jeney, second from left, was recently inducted into the Connecticut Certified Nursing Assistant Hall of Fame by the Connecticut Chapter of the American College of Health Care Administrators (ACHCA). Pictured from left to right are: Wendy Furniss, chief of the Health Care Systems Branch of the State of Connecticut Department of Public Health; Ms. Jeney; Mark Finkelstein, vice president, Hughes Health & Rehabilitation; Michele Carney, president of the Connecticut Chapter of the ACHCA; and Stephen Shelton, chairman of the awards committee of the Connecticut Chapter of the ACHCA. |
Hughes Health’s Elizabeth Jeney Inducted into Nursing Hall of Fame
Hughes Health & Rehabilitation’s Elizabeth Jeney has been inducted into the Connecticut Certified Nursing Assistant Hall of Fame.
Liz, a resident of Wethersfield, CT, and 26-year employee at Hughes Health, was selected for the Hall of Fame by the Connecticut Chapter of the American College of Health Care Administrators.
The purpose of the Connecticut Certified Nursing Assistant Hall of Fame is to recognize nursing assistants who have consistently rendered the highest quality of care and promote exceptional quality of life to residents in long term care facilities in Connecticut.
“Liz is loved and respected by residents, families and co-workers,” said Mark Finkelstein, vice president of Hughes Health & Rehabilitation. “One has only to meet Liz to realize her genuine affection for those entrusted to her care.”
Liz is the third Hughes Health employee in four years to be inducted into the Connecticut Certified Nursing Assistant Hall of Fame. She joins Angela Kovesdi, who was inducted in 2009, and Sylvie Heath, inducted in 2008.
“Liz continues the Hughes tradition of providing outstanding and compassionate care to every resident every single day. Her induction into the Connecticut Certified Nursing Assistant Hall of Fame means a great deal to everyone here at Hughes,” said Mark.
Hughes Health Welcomes New Medical Director
A message from Mark Finkelstein
Vice President, Hughes Health & Rehabilitation
April 6, 2011
Dear Residents, Families, Friends, and Staff of Hughes Health & Rehabilitation:
Please join me in welcoming Dr. Satyarani Tallapureddy as our new medical director. Dr. Tallapureddy currently serves as associate professor of medicine at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine. She also maintains a private practice in Hartford.
Dr. Tallapureddy has served in many capacities in health care throughout central Connecticut, including the position of assistant director of the hospitalist program at St. Francis Hospital and Medical Center.
Dr. Tallapureddy’s comprehensive service in Connecticut’s health care community makes her an invaluable addition to the staff of Hughes Health & Rehabilitation. We are thrilled to have someone with her experience and dedication serve our residents at Hughes.
As Medical Director of Hughes, Dr. Tallapureddy will, among other things, assure that quality medical care is provided in the facility, serve as a liaison between the medical staff and administration, assure that each patient in the facility has an assigned personal physician, and provide or arrange for the provision of necessary medical care to the patient if the individual's personal physician is unavailable to do so.
Dr. Tallapureddy replaces Dr. William Pickering who recently retired after a nearly two-decade career as Hughes’ medical director. I speak for everyone at Hughes in expressing our deep gratitude and appreciation for Dr. Pickering’s many years of dedicated professional service he warmly provided to our residents and staff.
I am happy to report that Dr. Pickering will continue to serve Hughes as an attending physician and an active member of our organized medical staff. We will continue to benefit from the invaluable contributions Dr. Pickering brings to our residents and staff.
Please welcome Dr. Tallapureddy to our Hughes family. And, please share your gratitude with Dr. Pickering.
Thank you.
Hughes Ranked One of America's Top Nursing Homes for Third Year in a Row
Hughes Health was selected as one of America’s best nursing facilities by Consumers’ Research Council of America’s (CRA) Guide to America’s Top Nursing Homes. The CRA guide is information provided to the public by the official U.S. Government site regarding Medicare, www.medicare.gov.
It is the third year in a row that Hughes has been acknowledged in the national Medicare survey.
“I thank our wonderful and dedicated Hughes employees who give their best to our residents every single day,” said Mark Finkelstein, vice president and administrator of Hughes. “You continue to serve our residents with the quality care that we all can be proud of. I personally want to say thank you to my Hughes co-workers. It’s a great way to begin our 50th anniversary year in 2011!”
Hughes’ rating is based on data collected by the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Results are reported in three categories: performance in health inspections, staffing and quality measures. Overall, Hughes received the highest 5-star rating.
Ms. Gertrude Garufi Celebrates Her 100th Birthday
Friends and family of Gertrude Helene Seifert Thomas Garufi recently celebrated her 100th birthday at Hughes Health & Rehabilitation, where she has been a resident the past seven years.
“It is always a highlight when one of our residents celebrates a significant milestone, and Gertrude’s centennial birthday was certainly a very special occasion for her and all her friends at Hughes,” said Mark Finkelstein, Hughes Health & Rehabilitation’s vice president and administrator.
Gertrude was born on November 15, 1910 in Harford. The oldest of four children, she attended local Hartford schools. Ms. Garufi was married to Armand Thomas in 1932 until his passing in 1945, leaving her as a single mother raising two children, Elaine and Arthur. Gertrude married again in 1954 to Anthony Garufi who also passed away in 1983.
Gertrude was employed by Arrow Hart for many years and retired at age 65 in 1975. She loved her home in Newington and was very active in the Newington Senior Citizens Club where she started a knitting group and lunch program. Gertrude loved to go to WestFarms mall on Saturdays up into her 80’s to enjoy lunches with four generations of girls in her family.
In addition to her children Elaine Lyons and Arthur Thomas, Gertrude has five grandchildren: Chip Lyons, Tim Lyons, Amy McCarthy, Kevin Thomas and Lynn Cousineau.
She also has 10 great grandchildren: Sean Lyons, Heidi Lyons, Holly McCarthy, Patrick McCarthy, Carly McCarthy, Terra Thomas, Kyle Thomas, Devin Thomas, Shane Thomas and Christian Thomas.
On her birthday, Gertrude received a proclamation by Governor M. Jodi Rell, an official citation by the Connecticut General Assembly and a beautiful bouquet of flowers from her friends at Hughes Health.
Happy Birthday, Gertrude!
Lieutenant Governor-Elect Nancy Wyman Visits Hughes Residents
Nancy Wyman, recently elected as Connecticut’s next Lietenant Governor, visited Hughes Health & Rehabilitation in October for a meet-and-greet with residents and staff.
Nancy, who served 16 years as the State Comptroller, was elected on the winning ticket with Governor-elect Dannel Malloy, former Mayor of Stamford, CT. Both will be sworn in on January 5, 2011.
“To the delight of us all, Nancy spoke from the heart and acknowledged the compassionate and dedicated work Hughes’ employees perform every day,” said Mark Finkelstein, Hughes’ vice president and administrator. “She was captivating.”
Nancy knows the importance of family and was quite at home interacting with Hughes’ family of caregivers. A mother of two and grandmother of five, Nancy has helped raise funds for breast cancer research and has served as a spokeswoman or the Mothers Against Drunk Driving Red Ribbon holiday campaign. She has also served as Chairwoman of the American Heart Association’s Greater Hartford Heart Walk as well as the National Kidney Foundation of Connecticut’s annual gala.
“Nancy appreciates the role Hughes and other health care facilities play in our society. We were honored to have a supporter of her stature visit us,” said Mark.
Hughes Health Plants 50 Daffodils to Bloom in Its 50th Anniversary Year
Next year will be a very special one for the residents, their families and the employees of Hughes Health & Rehabilitation. The year 2011 marks the 50-year anniversary of our historic home in West Hartford.
To inaugurate the occasion, members of the Avon Education Foundation assisted Hughes in planting 50 daffodil bulbs that will bloom on our Highland Street premises next spring. “It’s only fitting that we beautify the place many have called home during these past 50 years,” said Mark Finkelstein, vice president and administrator of Hughes Health & Rehabilitation. “Our founder, Dr. Eugene Flaxman, created Hughes with the sole purpose of providing excellent healthcare, coupled with a genuine caring attitude in a home-like environment. To this day, we live out his dream in a place that is special on the inside as well as the outside.”
Throughout 2011, Hughes will host numerous events to commemorate our 50th anniversary with residents, their families, staff and the community. Keep your eyes in this website for more information in the future about our golden anniversary year.
Happy Birthday to Hughes and to all the wonderful people that make it such a special, caring place.
Hughes Welcomes New Staff Development Director
On August 2, 2010, Hughes Health & Rehabilitation welcomed our new Staff Development Director Elizabeth D’Onofrio to our family of caregivers.
Elizabeth, known as Beth, brings a wealth of experience to her new position as Hughes, where she is responsible for the training of all employees. Her 31 years of nursing experience includes positions in hospitals, medical practice offices and home care settings. She has also served as a school nurse and case manager.
Beth’s most recent position put her skills and Master’s degree in Nursing Science to the test: She served as a clinical instructor for eight years at Lincoln Tech where she trained nursing students. For a number of years she brought her student nurses to Hughes as part of their clinical rotation in long-term care.
When asked why she chose to come to Hughes, Beth responded that she “loves the people here and it feels like home.”
Beth’s goals for her teaching position at the Hughes include instilling a desire for life-long learning in all the employees.
This passionate educator has been in Connecticut since 1990. Beth enjoys gardening, reading, traveling throughout the United States – especially Oregon – and has driven across the county twice. She is married with one son and two Pug dogs at home. Her love of animals has led her to volunteer at an animal welfare organization called Our Companions.
At Hughes, we feel quite fortunate to have attracted an educator of Beth’s caliber to our facility, and we look forward to seeing her talents put to use maintaining and improving the high professional standards of our caregivers. Because at Hughes, excellent healthcare coupled with a genuine caring attitude are our hallmarks.
Pat Thone Honored For Years of Service
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Laughter, happy tears and memories filled the Mill on the River in South Windsor, CT, recently for the retirement party of Pat Thone. Pat was honored for her 42 years of dedicated service and commitment by her co-workers at Hughes. “We’ll miss Pat dearly,” said Mark Finkelstein, vice president of Hughes. “ She brought a lot of caring and love to her job every day. She touched many lives during her more than four decades of service and became a mentor and trusted friend to many along the way,” added Mark. Pat, all of us at Hughes say THANK YOU and BEST WISHES for a wonderful retirement. Love,
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Peoplefirst Rehabilitation Comes to Hughes Health & Rehabilitation
On July 1, 2010, Peoplefirst Rehabilitation began providing services at Hughes Health & Rehabilitation. Owned by Kindred Healthcare, Peoplefirst operates in 40 states providing contracted therapy services. At Hughes, these services include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy six days per week.
Residents are fully incorporated into the therapy program that strives to reach their desired goals. The therapists at Peoplefirst emphasize clinical outcomes using a wide variety of modalities to speed up recovery. For instance, if a resident is recovering after surgery, his or her therapists help with pain management. Great success is achieved for our residents by retraining and strengthening their muscles and improving both ambulation and activities of daily living.
Here is the new Peoplefirst Rehabilitation team at Hughes pictured from the left: Kim Smead, Allen Boutin, who is the therapy program director at Hughes, Sheila MacGregor, Allison Anderson (front), Kristina Bendell (back), Aimee Shurmer, and Stephanie Forrest.
Please welcome them all to Hughes!
Families Honor Loved Ones with Memorial Bench at Hughes Health
Family members and friends of those who spent time at Hughes Health & Rehabilitation have honored their loved ones and Hughes caretakers with a memorial bench and surrounding garden. Located on the grounds of Hughes at 29 Highland Street in West Hartford, the bench is inscribed with the words, "Dedicated to those we have cared for and held in our arms for a while but will hold in our hearts forever." According to Mark Finkelstein, vice president and administrator of Hughes, "We are so grateful and touched by our residents' family members and friends who have allowed us to create this memorial bench in honor of past, current and future residents of Hughes. This simple bench speaks volumes about the caring relationships that develop between Hughes' residents and their caretakers, and will forever remind us of the wonderful people who have one time or another have called Hughes home." The memorial bench is surrounded by shrubs and two flag poles on the front lawn of Hughes, a 170-bed rehabilitation center located in an historic home in West Hartford. Hughes Health & Rehabilitation, a family-owned and operated healthcare center for nearly 50 years, provides quality care for those with chronic illness, as well as those needing convalescence and rehabilitation. Excellent healthcare, coupled with a genuine caring attitude are the hallmarks of Hughes.
A Green Milestone for Hughes
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| Pictured cutting the symbolic green ribbon at the celebration are, from left, Hughes Health Treasurer Michael Wilbur, West Hartford Deputy Major Tim Brennan, Hughes Health resident and President of its Resident Council Josephine Ostrowski, and Aegis Energy Services President Spiro Vardakas. | |
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| Josephine is also pictured with other guests at the ceremony. From left are West Hartford Deputy Mayor Tim Brennan, Hughes Health MDS Coordinator Brian Flaxman, CT Association of Health Care Facilities Executive Vice President Matthew V. Barrett, Hughes Health Vice President and Administrator Mark Finkelstein, Hughes Health Director of Nursing Lina A. Dureza, Hughes Health Treasurer Mike Wilbur, and Aegis Energy Services President Spiro Vardakas. | |
It was a glorious early summer day at Hughes recently when friends, residents and staff gathered to celebrate an important milestone: the inauguration of Hughes’ new 75 kilowatt co-generation plant. “This is a historic day for Hughes Health & Rehabilitation as we incorporate modern green energy-saving technology into our 50-year old operation,” said Mark Finkelstein, Hughes Health vice president and administrator. “Our new co-generation plant furthers Hughes’ commitment to be a quality facility dedicated to providing an environment conducive to our residents’ convalescence and recovery.”
Hughes selected CHP (combined heat and power), also known as co-generation. CHP is the simultaneous production of usable heat and electricity from one fuel source – in this case natural gas. Hughes was assisted in the project by Aegis Energy Services, headquartered in Holyoke, Mass.
“This system is expected to save our facility in excess of $50,000 per year, with a great simple payback on our investment,” said Hughes’ Treasurer Michael Wilbur. In addition, the CHP project includes a 15-year discount on gas transmission through the Connecticut Department of Public Utility Control.
Pictured cutting the symbolic green ribbon at the celebration are, from left, Hughes Health Treasurer Michael Wilbur, West Hartford Deputy Major Tim Brennan, Hughes Health resident and President of its Resident Council Josephine Ostrowski, and Aegis Energy Services President Spiro Vardakas.
Josephine is also pictured with other guests at the ceremony. From left are West Hartford Deputy Mayor Tim Brennan, Hughes Health MDS Coordinator Brian Flaxman, CT Association of Health Care Facilities Executive Vice President Matthew V. Barrett, Hughes Health Vice President and Administrator Mark Finkelstein, Hughes Health Director of Nursing Lina A. Dureza, Hughes Health Treasurer Mike Wilbur, and Aegis Energy Services President Spiro Vardakas.
Hughes Health Residents, Staff & Management Donate Money for Haiti Relief Efforts
The misery and devastation in Haiti touched the hearts at Hughes Health & Rehabilitation where residents, staff and management joined forces to collect $2,000 for the earthquake-ravaged country.
The Hughes funds will be donated to AmeriCares Disaster Relief and Humanitarian Aid Organization.
“The outpouring of support from everyone at Hughes was incredible,” said Mark Finkelstein, vice president of Hughes Health & Rehabilitation. “As soon as we announced our collection effort, piles of $10, $20, $50, even $100 bills immediately appeared. Everyone from Hughes hourly workers to residents to managers gave very generously and without hesitation. It was very heartwarming to see.”
Hughes’ participation in the worldwide response to Haiti relief efforts reflects its West Hartford operations, where Hughes staff speaks 28 different languages. “Hughes is a true melting pot of caregivers, and that speaks volumes about their support of humanitarian efforts in Haiti,” said Mark.
Hughes Health Ranked One of America’s Best Nursing Facilities by U.S. News & World Report
Hughes Health & Rehabilitation was selected as one of America’s best nursing facilities by U.S. News & World Report, and received the top ranking in the categories of health inspection and nurse staffing.
“Every day the employees of Hughes give their best to their residents, co-workers and community. I am very grateful their efforts have received such recognition,” said Mark Finkelstein, vice president of Hughes Health & Rehabilitation.
The magazine’s rankings are based on data collected by the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Results are reported in three categories: performance in health inspections, number of nurses, and quality of care. U.S. News & World Report simplifies the results and makes rankings of nursing homes nationwide easily searchable.
Hughes Health Joins National Quality Campaign
Hughes Health and Rehabilitation has joined thousands of nursing homes across the country in a voluntary national initiative, the Advancing Excellence in America’s Nursing Homes campaign. The campaign seeks to accelerate the rate of quality improvement in nursing homes by promoting excellence in caregiving for nursing home residents, monitoring key indicators of quality in nursing homes, and acknowledging the critical role of staff in providing high quality care. The Advancing Excellence in America’s Nursing Homes campaign targets eight measurable clinical quality and organizational improvement goals.
“We strive every day to provide the highest quality of care to our residents and patients, and we are always working on new ways to promote quality” said Mark Finkelstein, vice president of Hughes. “This campaign allows us to be a part of a broad national effort and signal, through data and measurable accomplishments, that our efforts are paying off for our nursing home residents.”
The campaign is different from existing national quality initiatives in several respects. It encourages consumer involvement as an important aspect to achieving success. The campaign also acknowledges organizational culture elements, such as the critical role of consistent staffing assignments and resident and family satisfaction, in improving care. More information is available on www.nhqualitycampaign.org.
“We will also be encouraging our residents and families to take an active interest in the goals of the Advancing Excellence in America’s Nursing Homes campaign,” added Mark. “Consumers can sign up to participate in the campaign via its Web site, and we can find ways to work together to meet our goals of improved care.”
Residents and their families, as well as Hughes staff, are invited to call Mark directly for more information about this national quality campaign at 860-236-5623.
Maria Arce Selected as Hughes Health Employee of the Year
Known for her strong work ethic, respected for her willingness to take on any task, and admired for her unfailing courtesy to residents, Maria Arce is Hughes Health & Rehabilitation’s 2009 Employee of the Year. Maria, a 15-year veteran at Hughes, was selected by co-workers, managers and supervisors for her total commitment to Hughes’ mission – Caring for loved ones; family style. “Maria will cheerfully take on any task asked of her, switching from one to another without missing a beat. Every work day, Maria performs many of the important day-to-day responsibilities for many different people, and all along maintains a wonderful ‘no problem’ attitude,” said Michael Wilbur, treasurer of Hughes. “We’re proud to acknowledge Maria as Hughes’ Employee of the Year.”
Maria was honored recently at Hughes’ annual Holiday Party and is pictured second from left with Santa and his helpers, who found their way to Hughes all the way from the North Pole by the kind people from American Medical Response.
Hughes Health Celebrates True Meaning of Thanksgiving
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The meaning of Thanksgiving was very apparent when the residents of Hughes Health were joined by 88 family members and friends for a special holiday feast. The residents, guests and Hughes staff together
dined on everything from turkey to apple pie – with lots of other food, love and laughter in between. The holiday dinner received tons of praise from our guests, who appreciated Hughes’ effort in bringing families together in the true meaning of Thanksgiving. Take a look at the gathering of family and friends, captured in these photos. It all happened at Hughes, where our mission is Caring for loved ones — family style.
Hughes Health Honors Our Veterans and Veterans' Spouses
Hughes Health & Rehabilitation Treasurer Michael J. Wilbur welcomes guests to a special Veterans Day ceremony at Hughes. |
Veterans Day marked a day of gratitude and thankfulness here at Hughes Health & Rehabilitation when 63 of our residents were honored for their service in defending our country.
“Today we honor you for your bravery, your courage and for the great sacrifices you have all made for our country,” said Brenda Abrams, director of therapeutic recreation at Hughes. “It is because of you that we are able to experience freedom each and every day in United States of America.”
Commander John Schmitt, left, and John Eselunas, both representatives of West Hartford VFW Post 9929, presented flag pins to Hughes veterans and veterans’ spouses during a special Veterans Day celebration at Hughes. |
Twenty-nine United States veterans, four international veterans and 30 spouses of veterans were honored at Hughes. Each person was presented flag pins by guests Commander John Schmitt and John Eselunas, both representatives of West Hartford VFW Post 9929.
“We would like to take this time to say thank you for all the hardships you have endured, for carrying the great burden and responsibility of defending our country. America owes a debt to you that can never be repaid,” said Brenda.
Hughes Health Remembers and Honors Co-Worker
The bell tolled 15 times as the afternoon sunshine lit the terrace and faces of our employees at Hughes Health & Rehabilitation. We gathered outdoors on a beautiful autumnal afternoon to remember the warmth and love of our co-worker, mentor, and dear friend, Irina Sheyner, who passed away tragically on October 15, 2007.
To commemorate a 17-year career that spanned the positions of Housekeeper, Certified Nursing Assistant, Licensed Practical Nurse, Registered Nurse and Night Supervisor, Hughes honored Irina with a ceremony filled with memories, laughter and tears.
The observance ended with the unveiling of a small stone monument with the words, “In Loving Memory of Irina Sheyner. A Life of Uncompromising Love and Devotion. October 15, 2007.”
“Here we are, two years after her passing and I still hear Irina’s name mentioned practically every week,” said Mark J. Finkelstein, administrator of Hughes Health & Rehabilitation. “I have never known any one person who had as much influence in a nursing home as Irina did.”
Prayers, poems and remembrances of Irina’s strong work ethic, love of her co-workers and vigor for life were shared by many Hughes employees, including Lina Dureza, Marina Astistov, Joanne Leger, Brenda Abrams, Anna Katselnik, and Anca Turdean.
After the bell tolled, Mark said, “Irina’s memory will ring in our hearts and minds forever.”
The stone monument in honor of Irina, a resident of West Hartford, was unveiled by Hughes employees Anna Katselnik and Anca Turdean. It will remain permanently displayed on the outdoor terrace of Hughes, located 29 Highland Street in West Hartford.
Hughes Health Wins National Quality Award
Hughes Health & Rehabilitation announced it received notification it has won a Step 1 National Quality Award from the American Health Care Association. Hughes was honored for applying and demonstrating the principles of continuous quality improvement for long-term care organizations seeking the highest levels of performance and competitiveness.
“We are honored the American Health Care Association has recognized Hughes with this prestigious national award. The Quality Award reflects the daily and indefatigable work of Hughes’s entire staff of healthcare providers. I’m grateful for their continuous dedication to fulfilling Hughes’s mission of caring for loved ones family style,” said Mark Finkelstein, administrator of Hughes Health & Rehabilitation.
West Hartford Firefighters and Hughes Health Eat Up!
Residents and staff at Hughes Health & Rehabilitation found their thrill on Blueberry Hill when they had the West Hartford Fire Department visit for a blueberry pie-eating contest. The event was in celebration of National Nursing Home Week as well as in honor of the firefighters’ dedication and hard work in serving the community each day.
The firefighters’ visit was especially meaningful to Hughes Health resident Adam Crudelle, seated in photo, a retired West Hartford firefighter. He and the active members of the West Hartford Fire Department were able to reminisce and discuss old friends held dear, as well as some history relating to the Department.
Hughes Health would like to thank all the West Hartford Fire Department participants who brought smiles to our residents.
Hughes Nursing Assistant Inducted into Hall of Fame
Angela Kovesdi, a certified nursing assistant at Hughes Health & Rehabilitation, was inducted into the 2009 Certified Nursing Assistants’ Hall of Fame by the Connecticut Chapter of the American College of Health Care Administrators.
Angela immigrated to the United States from Romania in July of 1984 with nothing more than a suitcase full of clothes and a couple of treasured possessions. She spoke no English. In November of that year she came to Hughes Health with her uncle, who acted as her translator. Through him she explained that she needed a job and that she was a good person and a hard worker. The administrator was so impressed by her initiative, work ethic, and persona that a position was created for Angela in the housekeeping department.
Within four months, Angela so impressed the management of Hughes that she was trained and given a position as a nurses’ aide. In the years that followed, she has grown to be recognized as one of the most beloved and respected CNAs at Hughes, where she has been recognized as an “Employee of the Year.”
“Angela is loved and respected by residents, families, and co-workers. One has only to meet Angela to realize her genuine affection for those entrusted to her care. The quality of the care that she delivers is exceptional,” said Mark Finkelstein, administrator of Hughes Health & Rehabilitation.
Hughes Health & Rehabilitation’s Sylvie Heath Inducted Into Certified Nursing Assistant Hall of Fame
Sylvie Heath, a certified nursing assistant at Hughes Health & Rehabilitation was inducted into 2008 Certified Nursing Assistants’ Hall of Fame by the Connecticut Chapter of the American College of Health Care Administrators.
Sylvie (pictured on left), a 29-year veteran at Hughes Health, was also recognized by her company for her outstanding service. “Sylvie represents the essence of care giving at Hughes and epitomizes the great and vital work all our nursing assistants bring to our residents every single day,” said Mark Finkelstein, administrator of Hughes Health & Rehabilitation, Inc.
“I accept this award on behalf of all my fellow nurses aids who are so deserving for the dedication they display to those in need,” said Sylvie. “I am very grateful to the Connecticut Chapter of ACHCA for acknowledging and honoring the work we do.”
A resident of East Hartford, Sylvie was inducted into the 2008 Certified Nursing Assistant Hall of Fame by Connecticut Department of Public Health.
