Einstein Honored for Advocacy, Going Green

Delaware Valley Healthcare Council, Regional EPA Cites Tireless Efforts

Philadelphia, PA, October 19, 2007 - Educating federal, state and local officials about the needs of hospitals, and acting to eliminate a plastic material used in neonatal intensive care units has earned honors for Albert Einstein Healthcare Network.

The Delaware Valley Healthcare Council (DVHC) and the regional office of the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) honored Einstein during the council’s annual meeting on October 17. Einstein President and CEO Barry R. Freedman accepted the awards along with Director of Government Grants and Contracts Bill Ryan.

The awards “recognize the commitment of Albert Einstein Healthcare Network’s board, administrators and staff to improving the lives of those we serve,” Mr. Freedman said.

In presenting the DVHC Advocacy Action Award to Einstein, the council’s Senior Vice President Kenneth Braithwaite said the award recognizes achievement, commitment and leadership in bringing critical issues to the forefront in the legislative arena. He cited Einstein’s leadership in drawing attention to the obstetrical crisis that is challenging families and healthcare providers across the state. With the closure of more than a dozen maternity wards in the region, women’s options for delivery are shrinking and the pressure is increasing at hospitals such as Einstein Medical Center that still provide such service.

The Einstein network’s environmental leadership also was honored at the meeting.

EPA Regional Administrator Donald S. Welsh presented the Trailblazer Award to Einstein, along with Abington Memorial Hospital, Holy Redeemer Health System and Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. The new award recognizes hospitals that are blazing the trail so that other hospitals may build on their success and implement similar programs, Mr. Welsh said.

“These Philadelphia-area hospitals deserve credit for taking positive steps to reduce waste, improve indoor air quality, and invest in reusable rather than disposable products,” he said.

At Einstein Healthcare Network, a plastic material in intravenous tubing, blood bags and other products used in neonatal intensive care unites is being eliminated. The plastic, DEHP or di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, can leach a hormone-like chemical that has been linked to reproductive problems.

 

 

CONTACT: Alexis Moore
Communications Director
215-456-6734
mooreal@einstein.edu

Publish date: October 19, 2007