Family Health Magazine - Spring/Summer 2002 - Saint Barnabas Medical Center

Newsletters

Family Health Magazine - Spring/Summer 2002

Messages

Ronald J. Del Mauro
Chairman, Saint Barnabas Medical Center
President and Chief Executive Officer, Saint Barnabas Health Care System

The terrorist attacks on September 11 resulted in horrific tragedy for this country. For the Saint Barnabas Health Care System, the disaster underscored the importance of solidifying our readiness planning in case sudden events require immediate action.

When disaster strikes, hospitals are on the frontline of medical care and dissemination of information to our communities. To further this initiative, we have created the Saint Barnabas Health Care System Domestic Preparedness Committee. This Committee coordinates, from a System perspective, the well-developed disaster plans that currently exist at each of our institutions to ensure full System response. Recently, our trustees approved a $4.1 million program for our hospitals to be equipped for any disaster, including mobile vans, protective suits, pharmaceutical equipment and comprehensive educational programs.

In addition, the Committee works actively with federal, state and local organizations to ensure an integrated response to any public health emergency. I am proud that in statewide efforts by government, health and law enforcement leaders to develop a comprehensive plan of action, we have been asked to lead or participate on important committees.

I am confident that the physicians and staff of our System will continue to provide the finest health care in the safest, most responsible manner.

John F. Bonamo, M.D.
Executive Director, Saint Barnabas Medical Center

In every New Jersey county surrounding our Medical Center, countless families have been devastated by the loss of loved ones, and the subsequent emotional and financial hardship caused by the events of September 11. There has been a great outpouring of assistance from across the state from residents who hope to help the families who have suffered so immensely.

At Saint Barnabas, our Burn Center cared for five of the survivors of that terrible day in September. All five have made valiant recoveries and are to be saluted for their courage and strength. The staff of the Medical Center extends heartfelt sympathies to families, friends and colleagues of the victims whose lives were cut short by this senseless act of terror.

With the help of the Saint Barnabas Domestic Preparedness Committee, Saint Barnabas Medical Center continues to train its physicians and staff for emergencies of any kind. The local community can feel confident in our efforts and take comfort in the knowledge that we are here for them no matter what the emergency.

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