In an effort to identify and implement ecological initiatives that have a positive impact on the environment and to create a cleaner and better world for our patients and the community, the MediSys Health Network recently developed “ecoMediSys.”
The ecoMediSys initiative is a multi-faceted, network wide program with several components created to help reduce waste, increase recycling, and conserve energy. Some of the changes Flushing and Jamaica Hospitals have made include:
- The conversion to a paperless electronic medical records (EMR) system throughout the hospital and our ambulatory care centers. This drastically reduces the amount of paper that was previously used in patient charts. The EMR includes ePrescribing of medications and a patient portal to allow for physician/patient information exchange.
- The implementation of a digital radiology system that eliminates the use of chemicals associated with conventional x-rays.
- The elimination of blood pressure machines and thermometers that contain mercury.
- The installation of energy efficient boilers and chillers, and a conversion from oil to gas.
- A transition to energy efficient LED lighting and the implementation of a fluorescent tube and bulb recycling program.
Other ecoMediSys initiatives include the use of more environmentally safe cleaning and building supplies, the replacement of high mpg hospital vehicles, the use of auto-off light switches in hospital offices, the replacement of old PCs with energy star-rated computers, and the implementation of a no-idling program for all hospital vehicles.
In addition to these changes, both facilities have further developed their existing “green” efforts. There has been an increase in the paper, bottle, and can recycling programs and additional shredding and recycling containers have been added throughout the campuses in both offices and patient care areas.
As a major healthcare provider to millions and employer of thousands, Jamaica Hospital understands the impact of these environmental initiatives and embraces its role as a leader in any efforts to improve the well-being of the community we serve.