President and CEO Dr. Tommy Ibrahim writes regular columns for The Freeman’s Journal, Hometown Oneonta, and AllOtsego.com. The following work was published in the January 19, 2023 edition.
Dear Friends, Neighbors and Colleagues,
At Bassett, we enter 2023 with new energy and a fresh perspective. Looking ahead to the year ahead, we are incredibly optimistic about the future of healthcare in the region. 2023 will inevitably bring challenges. This now applies to all hospitals and healthcare systems. However, Bassett’s caregivers are adaptable and embrace new opportunities with determination and enthusiasm. I would like to share some examples of how Bassett is advancing healthcare in Central New York and beyond.
We are pleased to announce that Bassett Medical Center recently achieved the prestigious Primary Stroke Center Certification with The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® and the American Heart Association’s Heart-Check Mark. This prestigious accreditation recognizes hospitals that meet excellent standards for improving outcomes for stroke patients. Stroke is her fifth leading cause of death in the United States. Providing advanced care to rural communities is essential. In addition to Cooperstown staff neurologists servicing the entire network, Bassett has successfully launched his TeleHealth partnership with Strong his Memorial Hospital in Rochester, providing 24/7 advanced neurological care. Offered on-call.
When most people hear the word “telehealth,” they probably think of consulting a doctor from home via video or telephone. But virtual health consists of more than that. Bassett’s E-Consults allows patients to connect with experts at partner institutions from the convenience of their local Bassett hospital or clinic. In addition to neurology and other subspecialties, our newest offering is our cardiovascular clinical services partnership with world-class physicians at Columbia University Irving. Medical center with live video and electronic stethoscope. Other options, such as E-Visits, give patients access to online testing and treatment tools. These tools are mobile-friendly and, once approved by the practitioner, automatically send the prescription to her preferred NYS pharmacy. Visit the Get Care Now page to learn more about all available virtual care options.
Bassett explores and employs advanced technologies and treatment options while continuously enhancing and tailoring care to patient needs. Last fall, Bassett began offering her Lutathera, a specialized radiation therapy used to treat rare neuroendocrine cancers. It’s essential therapy for those in need, and Bassett offers it closer to home.
We strive to make these new treatments accessible to patients without having to drive across states to big cities. This is just the first of several breakthrough medicines in this class offered through our network.
Finally, in recent months, Bassett Medical Center has added robot-assisted bariatric surgery to its suite of surgical weight loss options. This innovative procedure shortens recovery time for obese patients, reduces postoperative pain, shortens hospital stays, and offers patients the same options as in large urban areas.
We believe 2023 will be the right year for innovative thinking, breaking down boundaries and embracing new opportunities together. We look forward to sharing with you all the exciting things happening in Bassett over the next year. Happy New Year to you and your loved ones!
Sincerely,
Dr. Tommy Ibrahim
President and CEO
Bassett Healthcare Network
