Valleywise Health

06/14/2024

“Yesterday, we began the move of more than 220 patients from our legacy ‘county’ hospital, and into a state-of-the-art, modern medical center. At 3 a.m., we closed the doors to our old emergency department for good, ushering in a new era of healthcare, especially for the most vulnerable patients in our community.” - Steve Purves, President & CEO

The transition was filled with emotion as our dedicated team carefully moved patients into their new, environments. We’re incredibly proud of our staff for their hard work and preparation, ensuring a smooth transition.

Thank you to all our employees—you are the heart and soul of Valleywise Health. Today marks a significant milestone in our continuous journey to provide exceptional care for our community.

06/12/2024

Testing out our new pad 🙌🏼

A PHI Air Medical air ambulance today was the first helicopter to land on the helipad on top of the new Valleywise Health Medical Center.

Pilot Mike McGregor; Kinley Kent, neonatal flight nurse; and Jaime Mills, respiratory therapist, landed as part of a test run before the official hospital opening tomorrow.

The hospital will have two helipads – the one on top of the 10-story hospital and a ground level helipad. All regional air ambulances are linked to Valleywise Health’s premiere trauma and burn centers, where the most severe cases are treated. High-speed, oversized elevators will quickly transport patients from the rooftop helipad to the Level I Trauma Center on the first floor.

06/06/2024

Together we make our communities stronger.

Donate today!

Help make a difference for families and children across the Valley! 🎒✏️📚

For over 15 years, the Backpack Drive at Valleywise Health has provided essential learning tools to children as they embark on a new school year.

Together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of young students and create a brighter Arizona for generations to come.

Get involved at valleywisebackpackdrive.org.

06/05/2024

Mission Moment: Drs Daniela Cocco, Natalie Ertz-Archambault, Christina Renee Ferraro, and Elizabeth Ferguson shared each of their “why Valleywise” story with the Valleywise Health Foundation Board of Directors. Their passion and dedication to those they care for, as well as for each other, is praiseworthy.

05/31/2024

Wrapping up mental health Month!

As the only provider of court ordered inpatient behavioral health evaluation in Maricopa County, Valleywise Health is proud to provide access to these much-needed services to members of our community across 4 facilities.

As we advocate for mental health awareness and support, our Avondale, Central Phoenix, Maryvale, and Mesa locations stand ready to provide compassionate care and support to those in need. Let's prioritize mental health together this May and beyond!

05/31/2024

As we near the historic opening of the new Valleywise Health Medical Center, Betsey Bayless, Valleywise Health President Emeritus, looks back at her tenure as the health system’s first leader after it split from county government in 2004. A former Arizona Secretary of State, Bayless coined the phrase, “It’s a new day, Maricopa,” and became an early proponent for a new hospital.

Watch the full history video here: https://youtu.be/8H5yPEIeAzE?si=lpwCt4lAmPzI88sv

05/27/2024

Today, we remember and honor the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice.

05/27/2024

On Memorial Day, we honor and remember the brave individuals who selflessly served our country. Let us pay tribute to our fallen soldiers and their legacy. Today, we stand together in deep gratitude and remembrance of their sacrifices.

05/24/2024

Today and every day, we give a shout-out to all EMS first responders for their incredible dedication and bravery to safeguard our community. Join us in honoring and thanking these everyday heroes who work tirelessly to provide critical care when we need it most. As our valued partners, we recently showed first responders our new Level I Trauma Center and Emergency Department. It is with the utmost gratitude we say Happy !

05/22/2024

Each of Valleywise Health's Family Resource Centers (FRCs) has a parent advisory group that meets quarterly to provide feedback, share new ideas, and plan events. To close out the year, these families enjoyed a special field trip to the Phoenix Zoo as a thank you for their dedication and service.

Chief Clinical Officer Dr. Michael White joined the outing to personally thank the group members. The families were delighted by Dr. White’s visit and many shared how the FRCs have positively impacted their lives.

Our parent advisory group ensures meaningful parent engagement, develops leadership skills, and builds a successful program. A key part of the FRCs is fostering social connections between families. This field trip was a fantastic opportunity to connect and have fun together outside the usual setting.

Learn More: https://valleywisehealth.org/services/family-resource-centers/

05/21/2024

As we prepare for a June 13 patient move to the new Valleywise Health Medical Center, our healthcare teams are practicing in the new hospital space. Arizona Burn Center staff today used a mock patient to exercise in the new emergency department decontamination rooms.

05/20/2024

Valleywise Health had a strong showing at the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine (SAEM) annual meeting in Phoenix with timely presentations on severe heat illness, cold water immersion to treat heat stroke and wilderness medicine. Our emergency medicine physicians rock!

05/16/2024

Hospitals care for their communities every single day no matter what. This month during Hospital Week, Valleywise Health celebrates with some insightful facts from the American Hospital Association.

Every Year:
America's Hospitals and Health Systems deliver 3.5 million babies.

Every Year:
America's Hospitals and Health Systems provide emergency care for 137 million people.

Every Year:
America's Hospitals and Health Systems employ 6.3 million people.

Every Year:
America's Hospitals are the health care safety net for 26 million uninsured.

Valleywise Health takes pride in serving the communities of Arizona.

05/14/2024

Hats off to Jeanne Nizigiyimana, who oversees Valleywise Health's Center for Refugee and Global Health, recognized by Becker's Hospital Review as one of 231 Black healthcare leaders to know. Founded in 2008, the refugee program provides a unique model that employs 18 cultural health navigators hired from their respective refugee communities, ensuring a seamless transition for Arizona’s refugee populations as they navigate the healthcare system. See the full list: https://www.beckershospitalreview.com/lists/231-black-leaders-in-healthcare-2024.html

05/14/2024

Voices of Hope: Empowering Change!

Our current cohort of speakers in the Voices of Hope program is a testament to strength and resilience. Let us introduce you to some of these incredible individuals who are breaking barriers and changing perceptions:

Speaker 1: Jacqueline Fields
• Expertise: HIV+ Woman of Color (WOC), Natural Supports (Sister/Womanhood), Overcoming Stigma, Faith-based
• Story: Jacque is a woman with a warm heart and passion for teaching people about the importance of overcoming self-stigma and implicit bias. She continues her work to educate the community about HIV and encourages people to protect themselves in hopes to end the epidemic.

Speaker 2: Laverne Ward
• Expertise: HIV+ WOC, Overcoming Stigma, Positive Mindset, Self-Care
• Story: Laverne is living and loving life! She spreads joy wherever she goes and reminds others to find happiness in every moment we are alive. Laverne did not allow her diagnosis to stop anything in her life once she acknowledged that HIV does not define who she is. She remains active and connected to the community through VOH and other HIV/AIDS patient advocacy and awareness work.

Speaker 3: Marcel Toro
• Expertise: Peer Support, U=U/Relationship, HIV Education
• Story: Marcel is on a quest to become the best version of themselves they can be! Knowing their status empowered them to educate not only themselves, but others as well. Through their journey, Marcel, along with many others, helps individuals take control of their sexual health to protect themselves and partners in hopes to End the HIV Epidemic.

These speakers are driving change and challenging stigmas surrounding HIV. Follow their journeys as they inspire hope and create a more inclusive world.

05/13/2024

Dr. Michael White, Chief Clinical Officer, and Heather Burton, VP of Emergency Services, spoke to the media today from the helipad on the 12th floor of the new Valleywise Health Medical Center about the new state-of-the-art Level I Trauma Center that will serve the entire region. Valleywise Health is Arizona’s first Level I Trauma Center and a leader in trauma management and disaster preparedness.

05/10/2024

Thank you to members of the Arizona Nurse Honor Guard who joined us yesterday to commemorate Nurses Week and to show support for working nurses. The nonprofit group includes Tracy Stephens, a nurse with Valleywise Health for 28 years.

05/09/2024

Piedad Blake is Valleywise Health's 2024 Nurse Leader of the Year!

With this year's theme, "Nurses Make the Difference," Piedad truly embodies the essence of advocacy and care. For two decades, she's been a beacon of compassion and dedication, evolving from a nurse to a remarkable behavioral health nurse manager.

Her commitment to her patients and team is unwavering, making her a true champion in her field.

Let's celebrate Piedad's incredible journey and learn more about her inspiring story in the video linked below.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J-1uBWUrpPM

05/08/2024

The Valleywise Health's Information Technology team has been named the 2024 Nurse Partner of the Year!

Their dedication to teamwork and their shared goal of supporting patient care make them invaluable partners to our nursing team. From ensuring smooth operations in transport, environmental services (EVS), to registration, they work tirelessly behind the scenes.

Many members of our IT staff have clinical backgrounds, including former nurses who bring invaluable insight to their roles. They understand the intricate needs of both nursing and IT, ensuring seamless collaboration.

"Being recognized as Nurse Partner of the Year validates the hard work of our IT team in supporting care delivery at Valleywise," says Kelly Summers, SVP and Chief Information Officer.

Congratulations to our amazing IT team for their well-deserved recognition!

Watch video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ixx1nuJReNw

05/07/2024

Join us as we kick off National Nurses Week!

We're thrilled to announce the 2024 Nightingale Nurse of the Year at Valleywise Health. Huge congratulations to Ani Joseph!

Ani, an operating room advanced clinical nurse, embodies the very essence of nursing excellence. With 16 years at Valleywise Health and 31 years in her profession, she exemplifies passion and dedication.

Ani was nominated by her colleagues, highlighting the impact she's had on those around her. She believes in the power of compassion, sincerity, and teamwork. Her unwavering commitment to her patients, colleagues, and the hospital shines through every day.

Check out the video to learn more about Ani's inspiring journey and why she's this year's Nightingale Nurse of the Year. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kf252D9clVc

👏 Congratulations, Ani! You're a true healthcare hero!

05/02/2024

May marks Mental Health Awareness Month, shedding light on the challenges encountered by millions living with mental health conditions since 1949. Valleywise Health stands with you, prioritizing the well-being of individuals and families affected by mental illness. Together, let's eradicate stigma, extend support, and foster public education.

Did you know that May is Mental Health Awareness Month? Since 1949, Mental Health Awareness Month has helped address the challenges faced by millions of Americans living with mental health conditions. We are proud to support Valleywise Health throughout the year as they work to eradicate stigma, extend support, foster public education, and prioritize the well-being of individuals and families affected by mental illness. Learn more here: https://valleywisehealth.org/services/behavioral-health/
(Data Source: NAMI)

05/01/2024

“These new facilities are not just hospitals or clinics. They represent the healthy future of our state. They’re enabling our team to provide safe, quality care and train new generations of healthcare providers in a healing, patient-centric environment,” Steve Purves, President and CEO.

When Steve Purves joined Valleywise Health in 2013 as president and CEO, the organization was in dire financial straits. It was the region’s only public teaching hospital and primary safety net system of care, so it was imperative that Purves got Valleywise Health back in the black. And fast. Over...

04/27/2024

Join us at the next Voices of Hope Speaking Event!

We are excited to invite you to our upcoming speaking event hosted by the Voices of Hope program. This event will feature powerful presentations by our inspiring speakers, individuals living with HIV, who are dedicated to sharing their stories and creating change. Don't miss this opportunity to be inspired and educated. Here are the event details:

Date: Saturday, May 4, 2024

Time: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Venue: The Parson’s Center for Health and Wellness, 1101 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004

Link: https://ywcaaz.dm.networkforgood.com/forms/ywca-and-valleywise-voice-of-hope

Join us for an evening of empowerment and enlightenment as we challenge stigmas and increase HIV awareness. This event is open to all who wish to make a difference. Spread the word and bring your friends! Let's unite and be the voices of hope together.

04/24/2024

Laura Stallings, a dialysis manager at Valleywise Health, said while her environment may change, her staff’s commitment to patients will remain the same.

“The heart and soul of the hospital is the staff,” Stallings said. “It’s the same staff, so we’re moving our culture to a new facility.”

Valleywise Health refers to its health-care system as a safety net for the community and prides itself on serving the Valley’s underserved.On April 3, Valleywise Health hosted an opening ceremony for its new medical center on East Roosevelt Street in Phoenix. This center replaces the previous buil...

04/16/2024

Congratulations to Dr. Michael White, Chief Clinical Officer, recently recognized by Becker's Hospital Review in its 2024 national list of "180 Hospital and Health Systems Chief Medical Officers to Know." He was was one 2 Arizona CMOs recognized. Read more: https://valleywisehealth.org/valleywise-healths-dr-michael-white-honored-by-beckers-hospital-review/

04/16/2024

Inspire Change, Book a Speaker Today!

Are you organizing an event or educational session? Our Valleywise Health Voices of Hope Speakers Bureau offers captivating speakers living with HIV who can empower your audience. Their stories will enlighten, engage, and challenge stigmas surrounding HIV. Don't miss this opportunity to create an impact.

Contact us now: McDowellFeedback@valleywisehealth.org

04/12/2024

We had some special guests join us for the official ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Valleywise Health Medical Center. Thank you, Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, State AHCCCS Cabinet Executive Officer, Carmen Heredia, Representative Greg Stanton, Representative David Schweikert and members of our Maricopa County Special Health Care District Board of Directors for helping us celebrate this important milestone!

04/09/2024

Let’s rewind to the epic moments of our Grand Opening celebrations at the new Valleywise Health Medical Center! 🎉 From awesome performances by Voices of the Desert, Coatlicue Aztec Dancers, and Estrella del Valle Baile Folklorico, to eye-opening tours of our new medical center, it was a day packed with excitement.

Thank you to all that joined and made this event a true success.

We love our community!💚

04/04/2024

Day and night, camaraderie filled the air as employees and their families explored the new Valleywise Health Medical Center! Employees toured four floors, had treats at the expanded café, and took on the challenge of finding their names on the "Leave Your Mark" donation wall. It was a memorable day filled with excitement!

The celebration isn't over yet! Don't miss our Community Grand Opening Event on April 6, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Come and see our new space—we'd love to have you there!

12/20/2023

Claire Nielson, the oldest daughter of burn survivors Stephanie and Christian Nielson, was only six when her parents suffered severe burns in a small plane crash. Today, she's working at the Arizona Burn Center - Valleywise Health and sharing her powerful story of healing.