Newark, N.J.-based University Hospital is implementing a new program to create better communication between patients and healthcare professionals and restore community support for the hospital, Tap into Newark reports.
University Hospital recently hired two chaplains to work as health and spiritual coaches, lifestyle mentors and intermediaries between providers and their patients. Their goal is to establish more lasting relationships to improve care.
Acting President and CEO Judith Persichilli, BSN, RN, said in a statement to the publication that she hopes the program will help regain some of residents' trust in the institution. During the past few months, the hospital has experienced multiple scandals, including a state investigation into the deaths of three premature infants and the resignation of its former CEO in December 2018.
"By connecting our patients with community healthcare resources and providing them with a high-touch, people-centered approach, we hope to reduce the number of people seeking emergency services for complications that can be managed or prevented at home. Most importantly, we hope to further develop the trust of Newark residents in the care we provide so that they know they can rely on us for support in their everyday lives," Ms. Persichilli said.
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