Earth Day began 48 years ago on April 22, 1970, as an effort to raise awareness of issues that negatively affect our environment.  Every year, in recognition of this important observance, Jamaica Hospital Medical Center displays the eco-friendly projects of various departments and vendors in our main lobby.

This year’s Earth Day exhibitors included the Pre-Hospital Care, Dietary, Planning, Printing, Engineering and Safety departments as well as Stericycle and the Ride Share Program.  All of which showcased their initiatives to reduce pollution and help improve our environment.

As a healthcare institution, Jamaica Hospital utilizes items such as paper, vehicles and cleaning equipment to help us to complete many of the services we provide. Improper use and disposal of these items can have a major impact on the environment.  This is why Jamaica Hospital developed ecoMediSys, a green committee that monitors conservation efforts and encourages environmentally responsible initiatives.

Since its inception six years ago, ecoMediSys has recognized an individual or department that has demonstrated a strong commitment to preserving the environment by presenting them with a plaque on Earth Day.  This year, Benny Quiles, Director of the Safety Department was recognized for his efforts throughout the years in keeping our environment safe and eco-friendly. Frederick Beekman, VP of Ambulatory Care was also recognized for having created the ecoMedisys initiative and for all of his efforts to keep the MediSys Network environmentally responsible.

Jamaica Hospital is proud of departments and staff involved in conservation efforts that help make our hospital greener.  It is our goal is to not only take care of our patients but to take care of our environment as well.