Holy Cross Health, Fort Lauderdale

Holy Cross Health is excited to announce the addition of Dr. Ryan Moncman, D.O., a leading neurosurgeon, and Dr. Tara Gaston Moncman, D.O., a highly skilled orthopedic surgeon, to our medical team. This husband-and-wife duo brings a wealth of expertise and a shared passion for patient-centered care.

Dr. Ryan Moncman, who specializes in complex spinal surgeries and minimally invasive techniques, will be enhancing our neurosurgical services. Meanwhile, Dr. Tara Gaston Moncman, known for her advanced orthopedic care and expertise in foot and ankle treatment, will contribute her skills to our Orthopedic department. Together, they are dedicated to improving patient outcomes and providing compassionate care to our community.

Learn more about how Dr. Ryan and Dr. Tara Moncman will be working together to provide exceptional patient care:

https://southfloridahospitalnews.com/holy-cross-medical-group-welcomes-husband-and-wife-duo-neurosurgeon-ryan-moncman-d-o-and-orthopedic-surgeon-tara-gaston-moncman-d-o/

When should you see a rheumatologist?

Dr. Yesenia Santiago-Casas from Holy Cross Health recently discussed this on Nova Southeastern University Dateline Health, sharing how her and her multi-specialty team help patients with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and autoimmune diseases. Knowing the early signs, like ongoing joint pain or swelling, can make a big difference in managing these conditions and staying healthy.

Think you or someone you love might need to see a rheumatologist? Schedule an appointment with Dr. Santiago-Casas today by calling (954) 542-2100. Taking care of your health starts with the right care!

Watch the full interview below:

Dateline Health Show 598: When do you need to see a Rheumatologist? This episode of Dateline Health discusses the realm of Rheumatology and tips to stay healthy.Guest:Yesenia Santiago-Casas, M.D., F.A.C.P., F.A.C.R.Rheumatolo...

Holy Cross Health is honored to be nominated in the second annual Out SFL Your Choice Awards. We are proud to be recognized in the following categories:

•Best Medical Practice: Wilton Manors Medical Group
•Best Local Doctor: Jason Ceavers, MD
•Best LGBTQ-friendly Medical Practice

Voting is available once per day, per email address, and you are welcome to vote in only the categories that are most meaningful to you.

We appreciate your continued support of our mission to provide quality, inclusive healthcare.

Cast your vote here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1ZGdsX8GPoliEiXNYgriNDDTvRfiIiim_5YmHYuAZMJg/viewform?ts=66ba5ba8&edit_requested=true

Earlier this year, Holy Cross Health launched the inaugural Health Champions Colleague Giving Campaign! Over 200 colleagues raised over $129,000 to support the mission of Holy Cross Health.
Check out our recap video for highlights from this year’s campaign!

Through philanthropy, we are building excellence together. 🤝💙

Colleague Giving Campaign As a not-for-profit, faith-based Catholic health system, philanthropy advances the Holy Cross Health mission and makes a difference in the communities we ser...

Ready to unlock a smoother recovery from total knee replacement surgery? 🦵

Physical Therapist Codie Li explains why rehab is essential before and after total knee replacement surgery. Learn how effective physical therapy can accelerate your recovery, improve mobility, and ensure a smoother healing process.

Watch the full video below for more information about rehabilitation and to schedule your appointment.

https://youtu.be/IL4TYo719Ps

Please note that a valid script from the last 30 days is required to book your rehab evaluation.

Total Knee Replacement Rehab: The Key to a Faster Recovery Physical Therapist Codie Li explains why rehabilitation is essential before and after total knee replacement surgery. Learn how it can accelerate recovery an...

Today, we welcomed the Big Red Bus from OneBlood to Holy Cross Health, and we're deeply grateful to everyone who donated blood. Your generosity is vital to saving lives in our community.

Fulfilling our mission to care for the health and well-being of our neighbors is at the core of what we do. Events like today's blood drive ensure that life-saving resources are available when they're needed most.

Thank you for your support and for making a lasting impact on those around you. Your contributions truly make a difference!

Honoring Excellence: James Cater, Leader of the Quarter 🌟

We're proud to announce James Cater as our Leader of the Quarter (LOQ)! James's dedication to advancing respiratory therapy is truly remarkable. As he believed in the possibility of attracting two of the most sought-after speakers for Respiratory Therapy, he made it a reality, allowing the entire team to benefit from their expertise.

As the respiratory team put it, "James is a true optimist. He always has a smile on his face and is eager to engage with everyone." His positive attitude and unwavering commitment inspire us all and elevate the entire department.

Thank you, James, for your remarkable leadership and for inspiring us all to reach new heights!

At Holy Cross Health, we are committed to empowering our team members to grow and excel in their careers. Christina Maragh, our Population Health Nurse in Orthopedics-Sports, is a testament to the opportunities available here. Through the Friedman Award, Christina attended the AAOS Annual Meeting, where she focused on courses most relevant to her role, including Total Knee and Total Hip arthroplasties. She also explored sessions on Medicare and insurance reimbursement changes, which are crucial for ensuring patient safety and making strategic financial decisions.

As Christina shared, “The Friedman Award gave me an opportunity for education that I would not have been able to afford on my own. Additionally, I am ONC (Orthopedic Nurse Certified), which requires an additional 50 hours of orthopedic courses beyond licensure requirements. The AAOS meeting provided training that I may use toward renewing my certification.”

Christina also found inspiration in the connections she made at the meeting: “My favorite courses I attended featured up-and-coming Orthopedic influencers. I was fortunate to meet Dr. Robin West, who has a remarkable personal and professional testimony. I also made an effort to attend courses led by both women and minorities in Orthopedics. It motivates and inspires me to see diversity in the field and learn from diverse cultures and viewpoints.”

Her advice to colleagues is simple yet powerful: “Find something that intrigues you and just apply! By offering this award, Holy Cross demonstrates its commitment to furthering education for their employees. The only thing you have to lose? The possibility that you are not chosen this year. But you will never regret trying or learning more.”

We are proud to support Christina and all our team members in their pursuit to excellence. Thank you to the continued generosity of the family members who carry forward the legacy of Robert and Eugine Friedman. The Friedman Awards are granted annually to full-time Holy Cross colleagues who embody qualities of compassion, commitment to clinical excellence, and genuine intellectual curiosity.

Did you know bone density testing can prevent serious conditions like osteoporosis? Dr. Michelle Dzung from Holy Cross Health explains the significance of this test and how it can help maintain your health and independence.

💡Why It's Important:
•Early Detection: Identify bone loss early to take preventative action.
•Personalized Care: Get expert guidance on how to keep your bones strong.
•Better Health: Protect your mobility and independence as you age.

Schedule your bone density test with Holy Cross Health today.

For more information, read the full article here: https://www.holy-cross.com/newsroom/blog-articles/importance-bone-density-testing

Outstanding service, every time! 🌟

We are proud to recognize Mervin O'Garro an exceptional PCT on 2 South, as our August Colleague of the Month! Mervin's compassion, kindness, patience, and inventiveness make him an exceptional caregiver and a beloved team member. Mervin's colleagues, including 2S nurses and First Choice nurses, look forward to working with him, with some even adjusting their schedules to match his.

Mervin's tireless work ethic is evident as he is often seen busy caring for his patients during rounds and always ready to lend a hand to his colleagues. His positive attitude and ability to find solutions make a significant impact on everyone around him.

Recently, Mervin was assigned to care for an 18-year-old patient experiencing severe PTSD and emotional distress. Through movies, video games, and continuous communication, Mervin built trust and provided much-needed support. His dedication was so impactful that Charge Nurse, Jackie, requested Mervin to continue caring for the patient the next night, to which he readily agreed. His "service with a smile" approach exemplifies the best of Holy Cross Health.

Thank you, Mervin, for your remarkable service and dedication. You embody our core values and truly make Holy Cross Health a better place for both patients and staff.

Our Summer Surgical Scholars (S3) Program has officially wrapped up its orientation and academic sessions, featuring an amazing hands-on-experience with the da Vinci robot!

A special thank you to our PGY3 coordinators, Dr. Ashli Alexander and Dr. Karen Manzur, for their dedication and hard work, their guidance has been instrumental in making this program a success.

Launched by the University of Miami GME and Holy Cross Health, the S3 program is committed to offering young students' valuable exposure and mentorship, inspiring them to explore the field of surgery.

We're proud to support the next generation of surgeons and can't wait to see their future successes!

Is chronic join pain slowing you down? It might be time for a joint replacement!

Constant join pain can drastically reduce your quality of life. If you're finding it hard to walk, bend, or even rest without discomfort, joint replacement surgery could offer the relief you need. Holy Cross Health is here to help you understand the key signs that it might be time for this life-changing procedure. Take back control of your mobility and enjoy a pain-free life again!

Read more in our latest blog by Dr. Kevin Wang: https://www.holy-cross.com/newsroom/blog-articles/when-consider-joint-replacement-surgery-signs-it-might-be-time-replacement

Over nearly six years at Holy Cross, Isabelle has thrived through our residency program and critical care training, supported every step of the way. "I am grateful for all the colleagues I have worked with throughout my journey at Holy Cross. This program provided me with the guidance and reassurance I needed amidst the anxiety of starting a new career in this field. Before transferring to critical care, the clinical practice team advised me to apply to the Critical Care Academy, which helped me better prepare for my goal of becoming a critical care RN. I’ve also participated in multiple training sessions offered in my department to further my knowledge, learning to use different equipment and gaining the skills necessary to care for specific critical care patients.", she explains.

Isabelle also credits mentors like Lynn Coopersmith and Tracey Melhuish: "Lynn was my mentor as a brand-new RN at Holy Cross, teaching me a lot along the way, helping me gain confidence in my skills, and encouraging me to progress in my career in ways I didn’t think possible. Tracey was a role model for me when I entered critical care here at Holy Cross. She has significantly contributed to my development with her vast knowledge and willingness to share it."

Isabelle's story highlights the remarkable opportunities for growth at Holy Cross Health. We are devoted to enhancing our team's professional development and reinforcing their commitment to delivering exemplary patient care.

It was a pleasure to host our partners from Florida Blue at the future site of the Holy Cross Family Health Center. This visit is a testament to the strong partnership and shared vision we have for improving healthcare access and quality in our community. With the generous support of partners like Florida Blue, we are excited to announce that this 100% fully funded project is on track for a Spring 2025 opening.

The Family Health Center will deliver a broad spectrum of services, including pediatric therapies, a cutting-edge simulation room, family medicine, culinary medicine teaching, a food pantry, mental health services, and a pharmacy. This center embodies our mission to provide comprehensive, high-quality healthcare accessible to all. We are grateful to our partners for their crucial role in making this vision a reality.

Holy Cross Health is pleased to announce that Dr. Simon Blanc has joined the Michael & Dianne Bienes Comprehensive Cancer Center. Dr. Blanc is triple board certified in internal medicine, hematology, and oncology, with a focus on treating lung, breast,gastrointestinal, and genintology.

Dr. Blanc is now accepting new patients and looks forward to providing exceptional care.

For more information on how to schedule an appointment and learn more about his services, please read the full article linked below.

Welcome to the team, Dr. Blanc!

https://www.citybiz.co/article/582676/holy-cross-healths-michael-dianne-bienes-comprehensive-cancer-center-welcomes-hematologist-oncologist-simon-blanc-m-d/

We are thrilled to recognize another outstanding DAISY Award recipient! Lavoana Mitchell (LK), a complex care manager at Holy Cross, has been honored by the DAISY Foundation for her exceptional care and dedication. 🌼💙

In support of LK's nomination, a patient shared, "LK is a complex case manager at Holy Cross who was working with a patient on my floor who had a hard home life situation and needed extra help post discharge. After a long and frustrating process, she was finally able to discharge home with home health. LK was able to organize transportation, home health, and a government advocate for this patient all with a happy and positive demeanor. Her communication with the nursing staff and with the patient is something that is very rare to find when a situation like this is being dealt with.

She very quickly received a phone call from the government advocate that the home of this patient was very unsafe for the patient; she was a hoarder. LK did not hesitate. She had the patient come back to the hospital under observation status while she arranged for a company to go to the patient's house and clean up, making it safe for her to return. Not only did she go above and beyond her job description by following this patient post discharge, but it was also absolutely out of the kindness and compassion of her heart that she arranged for this patient's home to be cleaned. She reassured the patient that no matter what, there would be a safe environment for this patient to heal in."

Do you know a nurse at Holy Cross Health who has demonstrated exceptional care and dedication? Recognize their outstanding efforts by submitting a DAISY Award nomination here:

https://app.roundsplus.getwellnetwork.com/SurveyAction/SurveyGo/xjvBd5ceWj6Sz?u=0017000000nJjL2AAK

We are proud to honor RN, Lishette Rogers, as one of our DAISY Award recipients this quarter, presented by the DAISY Foundation. This award celebrates nurses who exemplify extraordinary compassion and clinical skills. 🌼💙

A patient beautifully shared, "My mother, Clara, underwent a complex abdominal surgery and hernia repair. During her stay at the hospital, we were fortunate to have Lishette Rogers as her nurse. Lishette’s dedication and compassionate care played an instrumental role in my mother’s recovery. From the moment Clara was admitted, Lishette demonstrated extraordinary clinical expertise and an unwavering commitment to patient care. She meticulously monitored my mother’s condition, ensuring that every aspect of her treatment was optimal. Lishette’s attention to detail was impeccable; she managed my mother’s pain effectively, kept her comfortable, and made sure she received the right medications on time. What truly set Lishette apart was her empathetic approach. She took the time to explain every procedure and treatment to us, alleviating our fears and uncertainties. Her patience and kindness provided immense comfort during a stressful time. Lishette treated my mother with dignity and respect, always encouraging her and uplifting her spirits.

One particular instance stands out: On the third day after surgery, my mother experienced severe pain and anxiety. Lishette’s calm demeanor and reassuring words were a beacon of hope. She stayed with us, holding my mother’s hand and talking her through the pain until it subsided. This level of personal attention and care went beyond the call of duty and made a profound difference in my mother’s healing process. Lishette also ensured that our family was well-informed and supported. She taught us how to care for Clara post-discharge, making the transition from hospital to home smoother and less daunting. Her genuine concern for my mother’s well-being was evident in every interaction. Lishette Rogers embodies the true spirit of nursing. Her clinical skills, coupled with her compassionate nature, make her an extraordinary nurse. She has left an indelible mark on our hearts, and we are forever grateful for her exceptional care."

https://www.holy-cross.com/newsroom/blog-articles/all-about-daisy-award

At Holy Cross Health, we greatly value the voice in our community. Your insights are essential in shaping our health services to better meet your needs. We invite you to participate in our Community Health Assessment by scanning the QR code below.

Your feedback will help us enhance our programs and services, ensuring a healthier future for all.

https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=GeaRDSxKgEy5WY_fUY5S6EW9GswQP8NOi4aV-sMYmsZUODI1UktGM0RJQkZWU09QQzJLRU9JTlNaMS4u&origin=QRCode

Did you know lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths? Early detection is crucial for effective treatment and a better prognosis.

At Holy Cross Health, our lung cancer screening service is designed to identify the disease at its earliest, most treatable stage. Our $99 screening, which includes the radiologist's reading fee, offers a proactive way to monitor your health.

To schedule your screening, call (954) 542-0277.

Breaking new ground in cardiac care at Holy Cross Health!

Dr. Joshua Larned, Dr. Handel Robinson, and Dr. Elias Collado have successfully completed their first Barostim implant in partnership with CVRx BAROSTIM THERAPY.

Barostim, a cutting-edge technology, stimulates the body's natural baroreflex to treat heart failure, marking a significant advancement in cardiac care. This innovative treatment offers new hope and improved outcome for our patients.

https://www.holy-cross.com/newsroom/press-releases/Barostim%E2%84%A2-Baroreflex-Activation-Therapy

We're on a roll this week at Holy Cross Health!

We are proud to announce that we've received another significant recognition this week. The American Heart Association (AHA) has honored us with the Get With The Guidelines®-Heart Failure Gold Plus award for our dedication to improving patient care.

The Get With The Guidelines- Heart Failure quality achievement award is earned by hospitals that demonstrate a commitment to treating patients according to the most up-to-date guidelines as outlined by the American Heart Association. This program is designed to enhance the quality of life for heart failure patients by increasing healthy days at home and reducing hospital readmissions.

Join us in celebrating this milestone as we continue to stand by you as your trusted health partner for life!

We're honored to announce that Holy Cross Health has been named one of the Best Hospitals for 2024-2025 by U.S. News & World Report. We received High Performing ratings in several key areas, including, Congestive Heart Failure, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Heart Attack, Hip Replacement, Knee Replacement, and Stroke.

This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our remarkable team. We remain committed to providing the highest quality of care to our patients.

For more details, read the full press release here:
https://www.holy-cross.com/newsroom/press-releases/us-news-world-report-names-holy-cross-health-among-best-hospitals-2024-2025

Holy Cross Health proudly hosted our 1st Annual Community Health and Well-Being Department's Teddy Bear Clinic at the Dorothy Mangurian Comprehensive Women's Center! Colleagues and their little ones gathered to nurse their "sick" stuffed animals back to health through 10 engaging stations.

Together, we learned basic first aid skills, dispelled negative associations with hospitals and first responders, and sparked interest in the healthcare field.

Thank you to everyone who participated and made this event a huge success! 🧸🩹💙

This week, Holy Cross Health hosted our Summer Fun themed- Emergency Department Skills Fair, skillfully guided by Kelsey Howard. This biannual event plays a crucial role in updating and enhancing our team's emergency care skills, enabling us to deliver top-tier patient care consistently.

A big thank you to all participants for their dedication to continuous learning and excellence in healthcare.

Congratulations to Laurie Scarbrough, our Surgical Colleague of the Quarter! 🌟

Laurie, born at Holy Cross Health, has dedicated 30 years to our community. She began her career on 4 South, spent 19 years on 2 South, 4 years in CVICU, and now excels in pre-op. Her role as charge nurse, administrator, nurse, and preceptor for new grads highlight her exceptional versatility and commitment.

Thank you, Laurie, for your remarkable service and for making a Holy Cross difference every day.

COVID cases are rising in Florida, and the search for Paxlovid is getting tougher. Pharmacies aren't stocking up like before, leaving many scrambling to find this crucial antiviral.

Dr. Zynab Hassan, Medical Director at Holy Cross Health Urgent Care Fort Lauderdale, discusses the spike and shortage with South Florida Sun Sentinel. She highlights a notable uptick in cases post-summer break, with many surprised by their first-time infections, often linked to recent travel.

In light of these developments, Holy Cross Health urges the public to stay informed and follow safety guidelines.

For more information on this latest surge, read the full article below:

Paxlovid hard to find amid COVID spike COVID is on the rebound in Florida as new variants spread, but pharmacies aren’t stocking antivirals like Paxlovid like they did during the pandemic. You may be sick, but you might not be abl…

Colleague of the Month: July 2024 🏥🌟

Join us in celebrating Nurse Leader Kelsey Howard, BSN, RN, our incredible ER Educator at Holy Cross Health!

Kelsey started as a new grad just a few years ago and has quickly become a vital part of our Emergency Department. Her eagerness to learn and dedication to excellence have made her a trusted resource for her colleagues. From day one, Kelsey has embraced every opportunity to enhance her skills and challenge herself, always ready to lend a hand in critical situations.

Recently appointed as ER Educator, Kelsey has excelled in organizing essential training like telemetry and EMTALA, skills fairs, and department-wide assessments. Her passion for education and innovation earned her recognition in South Florida Hosptial News for developing new grad curriculums and fostering collaboration across our healthcare teams.

We are immensely proud of Kelsey's contributions to Holy Cross Health. Thank you, Kelsey, for your dedication and hard work!