Beyond The Help Desk: A Look Inside SJ/C’s IS Department
For many co-workers, the only interaction they might have with Information Services, or IS, is when their computer is acting up. And while IS co-workers are excellent at helping co-workers with these tech inconveniences, the department does much, more behind the scenes.
“The IS department works with all of the technologies and digital tools that support the entire health system in the delivery, management and enhancement of healthcare,” says Nolan Hennessee, Vice President and Chief Information Officer.
“It is our job to make sure that our huge network of technology is operating as effectively and efficiently as possible, while also ensuring that patient information is accurate, accessible and secure.”
Co-worker computers are just one part of a massive information technology infrastructure that includes all kinds of interconnected devices, from mobile workstations to MRI machines and everything in between.
In total, IS supports more than 25,000 connected devices through 193 networks across the region.
“Every one of those devices is, in one way or another, critical to the care that we provide,” Hennessee says. “It is crucial that we keep our network not only running smoothly, but up to date with the latest developments in healthcare technology.”
Part of this effort includes ongoing migrations to Meditech, which require the transfer of millions of patient records safely
moving forward
and accurately. IS co-workers have also been redesigning and improving the functionality of SJ/C’s patient portal.
Cybersecurity is, of course, essential to any healthcare institution in which patient information must be kept safe and secure. That protection must be in place 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and much of it happens before the threat can even reach a co-worker.
“At SJ/C, we use a seven-layer cybersecurity model,” Hennessee says. “The top layer is educating co-workers on how cyberattacks can happen and how to protect themselves and our health system. Underneath that, there are deeper and deeper levels of security to make sure all of data and applications are safe.”
Despite the size and scope of the SJ/C network and its support, Hennessee and his team want co-workers to know that the IS Help Desk is there for whatever they need, no matter how small it may seem.
“Our department is here to ensure that the co-worker experience is positive and that our patients’ data is protected,” he says.
LCRP Offers Ongoing Care For Cancer Survivors
Completing cancer treatment is a significant milestone for patients, but it may leave them wondering, “What’s next?”
The new Survivorship Clinic Team at the Nancy N. and J.C. Lewis Cancer & Research Pavilion was created to help cancer survivors find the right answer to that question. Survivorship care refers to the phase of care that begins once active treatment ends. The focus shifts from treating cancer to helping survivors live well, addressing any ongoing or late effects of treatment, monitoring for recurrence and supporting survivors’ overall health and wellbeing.
The Survivorship Clinic Team is dedicated to helping survivors thrive. They work closely with each survivor’s oncology and primary care providers to ensure they receive coordinated, ongoing care. If you have a loved one who has completed or is close to completing their cancer treatment, let them know about this resource at the LCRP. For questions or concerns, the Survivorship Clinic Team can be reached at (912) 819-5758.
Keeping SJ/C’s technology infrastructure updated and running smoothly is a daily focus for IS leadership, including (from left to right) Beverly Sanders, Director, Applications; Nolan Hennessee, VP and Chief Information Officer; Lisa McLendon, Director, Business Applications; and (not pictured) Terry Messer, Director, Technology.
mission critical
Free Hernia Screenings
People from across the region who suspected they might have hernia symptoms were able to sign up for a free screening event hosted by SJ/C at Candler Hospital and the Pooler Campus last month. Co-workers from the Hernia Center of Excellence created a Hawaiian luau theme and offered a cool treat from Savannah Square Pops to everyone who came in. Patients and families at the Pooler Campus got to check out the latest model of the da Vinci robotic surgical system, which is used to perform the majority of hernia surgeries. All four master hernia surgeons from the Hernia Center of Excellence were able to screen patients, talk with them about their symptoms, and determine if further care was needed. Dr. Timothy Finnegan, Dr. Jeffrey Mandel, and Dr. Narra Reddy were stationed at the Candler Hospital campus, while Dr. Anthony Foley screened patients at our Pooler Campus.
Fundraising Initiative Donates To Telfair Mammography Fund
Ogeechee Heating & Air recently donated $4,600 to SJ/C’s Telfair Mammography Fund as part of their Comfort for a Cure initiative.
Through this initiative, the business donates a portion of their monthly HVAC system sales to a local non-profit. When the leadership at Ogeechee Heating & Air learned how a business partner of theirs had directly benefitted from the Telfair Mammography Fund, they knew the next fundraising event would be dedicated to SJ/C. They presented their donation check to SJ/C’s Foundations Coordinator Gretchen Chamberlain last month.
“We wanted to support a cause that was both meaningful and impactful for women in our community,” said Jena Lee of Ogeechee Heating & Air.
Angels Of Mercy Celebrate Men And Fathers
SJ/C’s Angels of Mercy hosted a cookout at the Old Savannah City Mission (OSCM) to honor dads on the Friday night of Father’s Day weekend. The men using the services at the OSCM are often struggling with homelessness. The Angels gave these men a moment of respite and a chance to enjoy hamburgers, chips, soft drinks, and more. The OSCM is dedicated to helping the homeless, as well as people suffering from addiction and ex-offenders, as they try to rebuild their lives.
(magnet nurses in touch)
Congratulations to our latest DAISY Award winner, Dana Boothe. Dana is a Resource Coordinator on 6 North at St. Joseph’s Hospital. She was nominated by a family member of a patient, who wrote:
“There are nurses who provide excellent care, and then there are nurses like Dana—the ones who quietly and confidently change everything. From the start, she brought a sense of order and calm. She was professional, poised, and deeply knowledgeable—the kind of nurse who instantly earns your trust simply by the way she listens and responds. But what truly set Dana apart was her willingness to advocate. She asked the right questions, coordinated communication among the care team, and made sure we understood every step of what was happening. Her calm presence steadied us, and her quiet persistence ensured that my dad received the attention and answers he needed. In a system that can often feel overwhelming, Dana made it human again.”
By Alicia Motley, DNP, MBA, RN, NE-BC Director, Professional Practice, Specialty Services & Infection Control, Magnet Program Director
As many DAISY winners do, Dana told us that providing exceptional care is really a team effort, and that she could not do what she does without her co-workers’ support. I think that is true across the health system—our teamwork makes the patient’s experience better.
Congratulations Dana!
Dana Boothe BSN,RN,ONC
meet jo pulcini
a co-worker profile
As a former chef, Jo Pulcini knows all about the timing, coordination and organization needed to prepare a good meal. He uses those same qualities as one of the health system’s Medical Staff Quality Assistants. Pulcini communicates with physicians to make sure their medical reports are completed accurately and on time. He also coordinates between physicians, his coworkers in medical records, and funeral directors within the required timeline when a patient passes away. Pulcini also assists coworkers in medical records with files that are duplicates or need updating.
“Our team is the human element that guides all of these electronic systems that are talking to each other. We make the process as smooth as possible. I also joke that I’m an alarm clock for physicians, because I will
occasionally chirp in to say, ‘Make sure your operative notes are done.’”
Pulcini keeps a candy jar at his desk to offer a treat and a break to physicians working long hours.
“I love working with all of the physicians. They are such dedicated people. Seeing how things work behind the scenes really strengthened my appreciation for St. Joseph’s/Candler.”
Pulcini has been at SJ/C for around three years, having previously worked with the American Cancer Society in coordinating temporary lodging for patients and caregivers who had to travel away from home for medical treatment. He quickly noticed how SJ/C co-workers embody the value of Compassion.
celebrating survivorship
“That is part of the culture we have, no matter how busy we are. I see it in the doctors that practice here, too.”
Another SJ/C value that Pulcini is grateful for is Accountability.
“We are all trying to accomplish a mission, so we are able to set our egos aside and learn from our mistakes. We’re all here to support each other. I love my co-workers. We have a lot of fun in our department and we have a lot of pride.”
This year, National Cancer Survivors Day was observed on Sunday, June 7, but the Nancy N. and J.C. Lewis Cancer & Research Pavilion (LCRP) always goes bigger than one day or one location to celebrate survivors. With a superhero theme, LCRP co-workers honored patients in Savannah, the Bluffton Campus, Hilton Head Island, Hinesville, Jesup, Pembroke and Statesboro. Special events included music from the Savannah Philharmonic, free healthy smoothies, a felting class and more. You can see more pictures of Survivorship Week on the homepage of The Hub
likes & loves
“I have my primary care appointments and check-ups here. Being completely honest, I love absolutely everyone here. They are all very wonderful people and value their jobs/patients. I have been to other people before I found this place, but once I came here I knew for a fact I felt comfortable and would come back. They are a good quality team for sure!”
– Google review (with 5-star rating) of SJ/C Primary Care – Richmond Hill at Heartwood by Taylor
“The staff of caregivers in Infusion at St. Joseph’s/Candler’s Bluffton Campus are great! Professional, caring and friendly, making a necessary medical visit as pleasant as could be expected.”
– Google review (with 5-star rating) of SJ/C’s Bluffton Campus by Joe
Follow us on:
fb.com/StJosephsCandler • Instagram: @chooseSJC
in memoriam
St. Joseph’s/Candler extends its deepest sympathies to the family, friends and colleagues of Reginald Merckerson. Reginald served on 7 North at St. Joseph’s Hospital and also worked frequently in the ICU and PCU at Candler Hospital. He passed away suddenly on June 2.
Our prayers are with Reginald’s loved ones. He will be deeply missed.
1
welcome to St. Joseph’s/Candler!
Please join us in welcoming the following new co-workers to the St. Joseph’s/Candler family:
Katrese Adams | Neurology
Emily Anderson | Dietary Svcs., Candler
Kaleb Armstrong | Anesthesiology, Candler
Dominique Bennett | LCRP
Jessica Bernard | Oncology Laboratory
Kaniya Blake | Surg. Ext. Recovery Unit, Candler
Charles Bogardus | Information Svcs.
Amy Brinkman | CT Scan, St. Joseph's
Sierra Bryant | Information Svcs.
Maria Calabano | PT, Candler
Knena Capers | Patient Accounting
Vilma Castillo | Clinical Care Coordination
Elizabeth Coffey | Dietary Svcs., Candler
Malikah Collier | Envr. Svcs., St. Joseph's
Jamaan Collins | Dietary Svcs., St. Joseph's
Angelo Craft | Interv. Radiology, St. Joseph's
Danielle Davis-Miller | OB/GYN
Britny Dowden | LCRP
Lasundra Edmonds | SPD, St. Joseph's
Melissa Espinoza | 5 North, St. Joseph's
Kimberly Evans | Dietary Svcs., St. Joseph's
Eric Faatz | Occupational Health, Hyundai
Jane Fitzsimmons | Inf. Svcs. - Hilton Head Island
Noelle Forte | ED, St. Joseph's
Bria Gardner | OR, St. Joseph's
Abby Hall | ED, Candler
Marilyn Hamilton | SPD, Candler
April Hammock | Amb. Surg. Svcs., Candler
Edwin Hanson | Patient Accounting
Erin Hanson | South Carolina Cancer Care
Brianna Head | Diagnostic Radiology, St. Joseph's
Teriana Hervas | Surg. Oncology
Cassidy Hinely | Pharmacy, Candler
july birthdays
Ayrica Hopkins | Surg. Oncology
Zatara Howard | PT Home Health, St. Joseph's
Amy Hughes | Bluffton Campus
Tykia Jackson | 4 North, St. Joseph's
Aisa Jarrells | Laundry & Linen, St. Joseph's
Ashley Jenkins | LCRP
Jamesha Johnson | OB/GYN
Myah Johnson | Health Information Mgmt.
Bryan Jones | Administration
Kenneth Jones | Envr. Svcs., Candler
Jovie Kerr | Pharmacy, Candler
Brayden Kersey | CT Scan, Candler
Irish King | ED, St. Joseph's
Oudrea Lawrence | OR, St. Joseph's
Karangi Lee | ED, Candler
Jevandy Lewis | Oncology Laboratory
Alexi Limer | PT, Candler
Paris Love | Dietary Svcs., Candler
Lisa Lowe | Patient Placement Centralized
Renata Mcgriff | ED, St. Joseph's
Mahi Mehta | 6 North, Candler
James Miller | Dietary Svcs., Candler
Sade Mobley | LCRP
April Mozone | LCRP
Jazmyn Murray | OR, St. Joseph's
Mimosena Muselaire | 7 North, St. Joseph's
Hayley Nielsen | OR, Candler
Philip Olmsted | Revenue Integrity
Shelby Patterson | OR, Candler
Tyshawna Payne | ATOC
Jasmin Perez Ramos | OT, St. Joseph's
Krystie Pinckney | GA Infirmary/CCSP
Keyla Pinero Caballero | 4 North, St. Joseph's
Collin Pody | Purch. & Dist., St. Joseph's
Anslee Poppell | Anesthesiology, St. Joseph's
Jeannette Powell | 5 South, St. Joseph's
Karen Preston | ED, St. Joseph's
Faith Rawlins | 7 North, St. Joseph's
Selena Rilington | 4 North, St. Joseph's
Danyelle Robinson | Dialysis, St. Joseph's
Malina Robinson | ED, Candler
Taylor Rogers | OR, Candler
Becca Romell | Gastroenterology, St. Joseph's
Joshua Salley | Urgent Care, Pooler
Natalia Sanders | ED, Candler
SeQuoya Sanders | Dietary Svcs., Candler
Randall Schwartz | Pharmacy, Candler
Ellie Sexton | OR, St. Joseph's
Hayley Sexton | Ultrasound, St. Joseph's
Jennings Shomaker | Information Svcs.
Rosia Smith | Dietary Svcs., Candler
Trinity Smith | ED, Candler
Khadesia Solmere | ED, Candler
Jayme Teuton | PT, Candler
Julia Tingler | Patient Accounting
Lexus Walker | Envr. Svcs., St. Joseph's
Shane Weidman | Hyperbarics & Wound Care
Salathia White-Howell | Ins./Pymt. Verif.
Demario Whiteside | Envr. Svcs., St. Joseph's
Deanna Whittsett | ATOC
Shantell Williams | Envr. Svcs., St. Joseph's
Teanna Williams | Envr. Svcs., Candler
Nakia Witter | Dietary Svcs., St. Joseph's
Essence Wright | 4 North, St. Joseph's
Skyler Ziter | ED, St. Joseph's
