New director of patient services
St. Joseph’s Hospital-North has promoted Bethany Wells to director of patient services, overseeing all nursing personnel. Wells assumed the position July 17.
Her duties will include leading and evaluating the nursing team; setting objectives and long-term goals for the nursing department; and organizing and coordinating admission, nursing and patient-care procedures.
Wells joined St. Joseph’s Hospital in Tampa in 2000 as a patient care technician, and progressed academically and professionally becoming a registered nurse in the medical-surgical department, and then the charge nurse of the orthopedic unit.
She relocated to St. Joseph’s Hospital-North as an education specialist when it opened. Most recently, Wells was the nurse manager of nursing administration, managing a team of 37 nurses and support professionals.
After earning a nursing degree, Wells received a Bachelor of Science in health care administration from Saint Leo University, and is currently working on a Master’s Degree in nursing leadership and administration from Capella University.
Third cardiac lab opens
St. Joseph’s Hospital-North, 4211 Van Dyke Road in Lutz, opened a third, 860-square-foot interventional services lab, simultaneously expanding its cardiovascular services to now include electrophysiology.
The state-of-the-art lab includes real-time radiation management software — for patient, physician and staff safety — and the latest 3-D precision imaging software to navigate the heart with accuracy.
In addition to electrophysiology (the diagnosis and treatment of heart rhythm disorders), the three-lab cardiac unit performs cardiac catheterization and interventional cardiac procedures.
Oak Hill expands program
Oak Hill Hospital has been accredited by the American Osteopathic Association for a three-year GME residency program in family medicine. The program is accredited for up to eight residents per year, for a total of 24 additional residents training in Hernando County.
The Family Medicine Residency Program provides an educational experience to prepare residents to become competent family physicians, capable of providing comprehensive and coordinated care to patients and families.
For information, visit OakHillHospital.com/About/Newsroom.
Oak Hill Hospital awards
Oak Hill Hospital has recognized Dr. Pariksith Singh with this year’s Frist Humanitarian Physician Award.
Named in honor of Dr. Thomas F. Frist Sr., the founder of HCA and renowned humanitarian, the award recognizes individuals whose daily dedication and care giving epitomize the highest standards of quality and personal commitment.
Liz Jennings, a registered nurse and certified perianesthesia nurse, was recognized by the Business & Professional Women of Florida with the Elaine Gordon Lifetime Achievement Award.
The award, in memory of former State Representative Elaine Gordon, is given to those individuals who promote full participation, equity and economic self-sufficiency for Florida’s working women.
In the past, Jennings also had been recognized as an employee Frist Humanitarian Award winner.
Al-Anon support group
The Al-Anon Family Groups are relatives and friends of alcoholics who share experiences, strength and hope in order to solve common problems.
There are local day and evening groups that meet weekly.
For meeting locations and times, and more information, visit the Pasco-Hernando-Citrus website at nfldistrict5.com.
For information, call (352) 697-0497.
