Griffin Hospital in Derby honors mental health worker with BEE Award

DERBY - Griffin Health recently honored Mental Health Worker Miguel “Mike” Ortiz, of New Haven, with the Being Extraordinary Everyday (BEE) Award for nursing support caregivers.

The BEE Award at Griffin Health honors nursing support caregivers who are committed to providing an exceptional care experience for patients and their loved ones, and fellow caregivers. Just as the bee helps strengthen flowers, nurses provide high-quality, person-centered patient care with the outstanding assistance of a support team.

A caregiver at Griffin for five years, Ortiz was nominated by a fellow caregiver in Griffin’s Inpatient Psychiatry Unit his incredible compassion for patients and team members.

“Mike’s impact extends far beyond a single act or moment,” the nomination for Ortiz stated. 

“Each day, he arrives with a positive attitude, unwavering dedication, and a genuine desire to make a difference in the lives of his patients and colleagues. Patients naturally gravitate toward Mike during their most difficult moments because of his calm presence, empathy, and ability to create a sense of safety and comfort. His exceptional communication and de-escalation skills help foster a therapeutic environment where patients feel heard, respected, and supported.

“Mike's compassion reaches beyond patient care and into every interaction with his team. He is often the first to step forward during times of crisis, ensuring both patients and coworkers are cared for. Whether volunteering for additional shifts, mentoring new staff, sharing his knowledge, preparing meals for colleagues, or simply bringing smiles and encouragement during challenging days, Mike exemplifies what it means to serve others selflessly.”

Griffin Health caregivers eligible for the BEE award are all non-nursing team members from the Griffin Health Patient Care Division, including Unit Clerks, Telemetry Technicians, Multi-Skilled Technicians, Obstetrics Technicians, Certified Surgical Technicians, Gastrointestinal Technicians, Central Processing Department Technicians, Certified Nursing Assistants, Mental Health Workers, Patient Safety Monitors, Continuous Video Monitoring Technicians, Environmental/Housekeeping Team Members, Patient Transporters, Dining Services Representatives, Valet Attendants and Shuttle Drivers.

Patients, visitors, and Griffin Health caregivers can nominate deserving members of the nursing support team by filling out a nomination form available at Griffin Hospital.

Healthy U at Griffin Hospital in Derby to discuss Hispanic health

DERBY -The Healthy U Lecture Series at the Community Health Resource Center at Griffin Hospital will provide an in-depth discussion about healthy living for individuals with Hispanic heritage on Sept. 16 at 6 p.m.

Led by Griffin Health’s Spanish-speaking primary care physicians, this free program features trusted medical insight into the health concerns and risk factors for Hispanic individuals, and how to improve their overall well-being. There will be ample time for participants to ask the medical experts questions.

The Healthy U Lecture Series offers physician-led presentations and discussions to help individuals better understand how the human body functions and be empowered to manage their health and well-being. 

Griffin Health medical experts will provide in-depth information about the body’s systems to best explain health topics including diabetes prevention, cancer awareness, mental wellness, heart health, nutrition, and exercise for individuals who want to learn more about wellness and disease prevention.

Healthy U is held on the third Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. in the Community Health Resource Center. 

The topics for each month are: October - Cancer Prevention and Genetic Testing; November – Diabetes Management and Prediabetes Prevention; and December - Healthy Aging.

To reserve your spot or for more information, call 203-732-7399 or register at www.griffinhealth.org/Healthy-U.

This is a press release from Griffin Health.

Derby Elks, Griffin Health to host booster seat giveaway Sept. 15

 

Reiki Level 1 Workshop slated at Griffin Hospital in Derby

DERBY - Griffin Hospital will host a Reiki Level 1 Workshop Sept. 15 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Reiki is a complementary healing method based on ancient healing practices that involves the conscious direction of healing energy through the practitioner’s hands. 

When channeled properly, Reiki relieves energy blockages to the body and restores balance, supporting healing on all levels. Reiki Master Nancy Corvigno will teach the basic concepts of Reiki, allowing ample time for hands-on practice.

The workshop cost for the public is $150, which includes completion certificate and Reiki book. Griffin Hospital employees and current volunteers can register at the rate of $25. Payment must be cash or check, and is due upon enrollment.

Workshop participants from the general public are required to become a Griffin Health volunteer, and are expected to give 100 hours of service prior to receiving their Reiki completion certificate.

Workshop space is limited, and preregistration is required by Sept. 8. To register, contact Wendy Farrington at 203-732-7434.

This is a press release from Griffin Hospital.

Healthy U at Griffin Hospital in Derby to discuss pulmonary wellness

DERBY - The Healthy U Lecture Series at the Community Health Resource Center at Griffin Hospital, 130 Division St., will provide an in-depth discussion about healthy breathing and pulmonary wellness Aug. 19 at 6 p.m.

Led by Griffin Health physicians and experts in pulmonology and sleep wellness, this free program features trusted medical insight into lung and respiratory well-being, and sleep disorders caused by poor breathing such as sleep apnea. 

Attendees will also learn about Griffin Health resources available to help promote an improved wellness and sample healthy food. There will be ample time for participants to ask the medical experts questions.

The Healthy U Lecture Series offers physician-led presentations and discussions to help individuals better understand how the human body functions and be empowered to manage their health and well-being. Griffin Health medical experts will provide in-depth information about the body’s systems to best explain health topics including diabetes prevention, cancer awareness, mental wellness, heart health, nutrition, and exercise for individuals who want to learn more about wellness and disease prevention.

Healthy U is held on the third Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. in the Community Health Resource Center. 

The topics for each month are: September – Hispanic Health Awareness; October - Cancer Prevention and Genetic Testing; November – Diabetes Management and Prediabetes Prevention; and December - Healthy Aging.

To reserve your spot or for more information, call 203-732-7399 or register at www.griffinhealth.org/Healthy-U.

This is a press release from Griffin Health.

Griffin Health named high performer in healthcare equality index

DERBY -The Human Rights Campaign Foundation (HRC), the educational arm of the nation’s largest lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) civil rights organization, recently recognized Griffin Hospital in Derby in the biennial 2026 Healthcare Equality Index (HEI).

Griffin scored a 95 to earn the High Performer designation in this industry standard benchmarking tool for LGBTQ+ inclusion and equity practices in the health care field. 

In an era where health care access in general, HIV/AIDS treatment and prevention, and health care for transgender people specifically are under threat, the HEI remains a necessary and useful tool both for health care administrators and for individual patients.

“Health care access for the LGBTQ+ community in 2026 is a tale of both important progress and dangerous setbacks," said Kelley Robinson, president of the Human Rights Campaign. “Even amid extraordinary pressure, many healthcare institutions are continuing to show up for LGBTQ+ patients and staff. Doctors want to take care of their patients in the best way they can. Even so, disinformation campaigns driven by a small minority of politicians who use trans youth as a scapegoat for their own failures and who are dismantling HIV care are having a real impact on people’s lives. It’s vital for all LGBTQ+ people to get the most accurate information we have on access to care across the country and we are proud of the ways in which the HEI helps the community understand this.”

The HEI helps healthcare facilities maintain and strengthen LGBTQ+-inclusive care even under extraordinary pressure. The report offers aggregate findings, benchmarks, and guidance for adaptation.

In the 2026 edition of the HEI, overall participation remained strong, despite a challenging moment for LGBTQ+ inclusive health care. Nearly 750 health care facilities completed the HEI survey with 44% receiving the LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality Leader designation, and 46% earning High Performer status. 

In total, nearly 90% of all facilities surveyed achieved one of the top designations.

This is a press release from Griffin Health.

Healthy U at Griffin Hospital in Derby to discuss mental wellness, self-care

DERBY - The Healthy U Lecture Series at the Community Health Resource Center at Griffin Hospital will provide an in-depth discussion about mental wellness and well-being Wednesday, July 15 at 6 p.m.

Led by Griffin Health physicians and experts in behavioral health, this free program features trusted medical insight into emotional, psychological, and social well-being, and how to best cope with the stresses of life. 

Attendees will also learn about Griffin Health resources available to help promote an improved wellness and sample healthy food. There will be ample time for participants to ask the medical experts questions.

The Healthy U Lecture Series offers physician-led presentations and discussions to help individuals better understand how the human body functions and be empowered to manage their health and well-being. Griffin Health medical experts will provide in-depth information about the body’s systems to best explain health topics including diabetes prevention, cancer awareness, mental wellness, heart health, nutrition, and exercise for individuals who want to learn more about wellness and disease prevention.

Healthy U is held on the third Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. in the Community Health Resource Center. 

The topics for each month are: August – Breathing and Pulmonary Care; September – Hispanic Health Awareness; October - Cancer Prevention and Genetic Testing; November – Diabetes Management and Prediabetes Prevention; and December - Healthy Aging.

To reserve your spot or for more information, call 203-732-7399 or register at www.griffinhealth.org/Healthy-U.

This is a pess release from Griffin Hospital.

Griffin Hospital in Derby offers free menopause wellness workshop

DERBY - The Griffin Center for Healthy Living will host a new, free health education program to help women care for their well-being throughout menopause.

Women's Health and Menopause is a three-week workshop that helps support metabolic health, manage body composition, and nourish the female body through the menopause journey and beyond. 

This workshop will explain how metabolic changes for women in midlife affect muscle, fat mass, metabolism, and increase risk for osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, weight gain, and diabetes. 

Certified Diabetes Care & Education Specialist Carolyn Gundell, MS, CDCES, will share tips, credible resources regarding long-term, post-menopause health risks, and lifestyle habits every woman in menopause should consider to support healthy weight loss, muscle mass and strength, nutritional status, and metabolic balance.

There will be a session on Tuesdays, July 21 and 28, and Aug. 4 from 4-5:30 p.m. at Griffin Hospital. 

This free wellness program is part of Griffin’s commitment to improve community wellness through free education, guidance and assistance in preventing and managing chronic disease. Griffin’s mission is to empower individuals to make choices that change their lifestyles for the better, and to go beyond caring for individuals when they are not well by building a meaningful relationship, guiding, and coaching them to maximize their quality of life.

Register at www.griffinhealth.org/womens-health-menopause or contact The Griffin Center for Healthy Living Coordinator at 203-732-1369 to sign up or for more information.

This is a press release from Griffin Health. 

Griffin Hospital in Derby offers non-invasive plantar fasciitis treatment

DERBY - The Center for Cancer Care at Griffin Hospital is providing an evidence-based, non-invasive treatment for plantar fasciitis.

Low-dose radiation therapy is a painless procedure that can significantly reduce inflammation, alleviate discomfort, and improve mobility in patients with plantar fasciitis. 

LDRT uses small doses of radiation specifically targeted to reduce inflammation in affected area, making it a safe and effective option for patients with musculoskeletal conditions. 

Studies have shown that LDRT helps alleviate pain and improve movement with minimal side effects, making it a valuable alternative when other treatment options for plantar fasciitis are ineffective.

The plantar fascia is a band of thick tissue on the bottom of the foot that connects the heel bone to the base of the toes. If the fascia gets irritated, it can cause pain in heel or foot called plantar fasciitis. In some cases, plantar fasciitis can make it hard to walk or move.

“Plantar fasciitis can greatly limit a person’s ability to enjoy activities and affect their quality of life,” said Center for Cancer Care Director Laura Howell, R.T.(T), B.S. “LDRT targets the inflamed tissues in the foot to improve mobility and significantly decrease discomfort so that individuals can enjoy a pain-free lifestyle and get back to the activities they enjoy.”

The outpatient treatment is a non-invasive option for individuals who have not found relief through more traditional approaches like medications, physical therapy, or injections.

For more information about LDRT for plantar fasciitis or to make an appointment for a consultation, call 203-732-1280.

This is a press release from Griffin Hospital.

Griffin Hospital in Derby offers free weight-loss seminars in June

Griffin Bariatrics will offer free virtual presentations on its weight-loss services throughout June.

Led by Griffin Hospital Director of Bariatrics Dr. Abe Fridman, these seminars will explain how bariatric surgery can help patients lose significant amounts of weight, enhance their health, and provide long-term well-being. Additionally, techniques, support programs, pre- and post-operative expectations, and insurance questions are also discussed.

Upcoming seminars will be held on June 17 from 5:30-6:30 p.m. and June 23 from 12-1 p.m.

Griffin Hospital established its comprehensive weight loss surgery program, Griffin Bariatrics, to provide a medical solution for patients with more substantial weight loss needs. The long-term success enjoyed by Griffin Bariatrics patients is a result of excellent medical care, including the latest minimally invasive surgical procedures, combined with access to a full range of multidisciplinary services that have been assembled to support them before, during, and after their surgery.

To register, contact Bariatric Care Specialist Kimberly Fisher at kfisher@griffinhealth.org or 203-732-7108. For more information about Griffin Bariatrics, visit griffinhospitalbariatrics.com.

Griffin Hospital in Derby to offer free prostate cancer screening

DERBY - In recognition of Men’s Health Month, The Center for Cancer Care at Griffin Hospital and the Health Initiative for Men (HiM) will host free prostate cancer screenings from 3-5 p.m. June 11.

The screening is sponsored by HiM, which encourages men to see their physician annually, and empower them to actively manage their health by being screened for various diseases that respond better to treatment if detected early. Ansonia businessman Frank Michaud and his wife, Judy, established the “Health Initiative for Men Fund” at the Valley Community Foundation to promote outreach efforts that would help raise awareness about men’s health issues, such as prostate cancer and colorectal cancer.

Every screening participant will also be entered into a raffle for a Yeti Cooler sponsored by HiM.

In addition to the screenings, individuals can come to the Center during the event to get information about men’s health topics, including surgical hernia treatment, bariatric surgery, low-dose lung cancer screening, genetic testing for cancer and wellness visits with a primary care physician.

Prostate cancer screenings are recommended for men at 50 years old. Men at higher risk, including African American men and men who have a first-degree relative (father or brother) diagnosed with prostate cancer before age 65, should be screened at age 45. Men at a very high risk (multiple family members diagnosed with prostate cancer before age 65 years) should be tested at age 40.

“Identifying prostate cancer early before patients have symptoms is our best chance to cure their disease,” said Radiation Oncologist Dr. Sanjay Aneja.

“Screening programs are an inexpensive and non-invasive way to identify men who have treatable prostate cancer before they have symptoms. It’s unfortunate that prostate cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer death among men because we have excellent treatment options which, if initiated early enough, can provide patients with a cure.”

The screenings will take 10-15 minutes. Space for the free screenings is limited, so early registration is encouraged. To register, call 203-732-1280.

About Prostate Cancer

Approximately 1 in 8 men in the U.S. will be diagnosed with prostate cancer. As with most cancers, early diagnosis is important to improve chances of cure. Screening, although controversial, is important because early prostate cancer usually causes no symptoms. 

There have been tremendous advances in the treatment of prostate cancer making treatments more effective and causing much less side effects.

For further information on your prostate health, contact your physician or call Griffin Faculty Physicians Urologists at 203-732-2651 or visit https://gfp.griffinhealth.org. 

This is a press release from Griffin Health.

Griffin Hospital in Derby honors nurse with DAISY Award

Tammy Borkowski

DERBY – Griffin Health recently honored Tammy Borkowski, BSN, RN, CMSRN of Oxford with The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses.

The award is part of the DAISY Foundation's mission to recognize the extraordinary, compassionate care nurses provide patients and families every day. 

Winners can be nominated by patients, patients’ family or friends, or fellow caregivers for their exemplary care.

Borkowski, a nurse for Griffin Hospital’s Critical Care Unit, was nominated by a fellow caregiver for her skill in advocating for and connecting with her patients.

“Tammy shows exceptional compassion and dedication for her patients, their loved ones and her team,” the nomination for Borkowski stated. “She is always stepping up and leading by example to ensure her patients are safe and well taken care of clinically - whether or not she’s in change that shift - and sometimes making her own assignments more difficult in order to help out others.” 

Information about the DAISY Award is included in Griffin Health patient information packets and nomination forms are available online and at all Griffin Health locations. 

The award recipients are chosen by a committee at Griffin and the award is presented throughout the year. 

For more information, visit griffinhealth.org/daisy.

About The DAISY Foundation

The DAISY Foundation is a not-for-profit organization, established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, by members of his family. 

Patrick died at the age of 33 in late 1999 from complications of Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), a little known but not uncommon auto-immune disease. 

DAISY is an acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune System. 

The care Patrick and his family received from nurses while he was ill inspired this unique means of thanking nurses for making a profound difference in the lives of their patients and patient families.

This is a press release from Griffin Hospital.

Griffin Health in Derby honors nurse with DAISY Award for extraordinary care

DERBY - Griffin Health recently honored Milly Delaney, BSN, RN, of Milford with The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses.

The award is part of the DAISY Foundation's mission to recognize the extraordinary, compassionate care nurses provide patients and families every day. 

Winners can be nominated by patients, patients’ family or friends, or fellow caregivers for their exemplary care.

Delaney, a nurse for Griffin Hospital’s inpatient units, was nominated by a patient’s caregiver for her compassion and dedication to caring for her patients and their family.

“Milly immediately exhibited compassion and empathy for our mom and cared for her as if she were part of her family," the nomination for Delaney stated. “It is an honor and privilege to have met Milly as a nurse and person. She brought dignity, respect, and care to my mom. She brought us comfort, empathy, and concern.”

Information about the DAISY Award is included in Griffin Health patient information packets and nomination forms are available online and at all Griffin Health locations. 

The award recipients are chosen by a committee at Griffin and the award is presented throughout the year. 

For more information, visit griffinhealth.org/daisy.

About The DAISY Foundation

The DAISY Foundation is a not-for-profit organization, established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, by members of his family. Patrick died at the age of 33 in late 1999 from complications of Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), a little known but not uncommon auto-immune disease. DAISY is an acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune System. 

The care Patrick and his family received from nurses while he was ill inspired this unique means of thanking nurses for making a profound difference in the lives of their patients and patient families.

This is a press release from Griffin Health.

Griffin Hospital nurses recognize pulmonologist as Physician of the Year

Pulmonologist Dr. Roman Spivak, center, received the Physician of the Year Award from Griffin Health Clinical Nurse Educator Ashley D'Agostino-Putetti, MSN, RN, WCC, and Critical Care Unit Clinical Manager Edward Valente, RN, BSN, CCRN, at Griffin Health’s 38th Annual Nurses Week Celebration./ Contributed photo

DERBY - Griffin Faculty Physicians Pulmonologist Roman Spivak, MD, of Shelton, was recently honored as Physician of the Year at Griffin Health’s 38th Annual Nurses Week Celebration.

The Physician of the Year Award is based on voting by the hospital’s nursing staff. In nominating Dr. Spivak, nurses said he consistently exemplifies Griffin’s core values, mission, and vision in his everyday practice caring for both outpatients at his pulmonology office and while treating the critically ill patients admitted to the Griffin Hospital Critical Care Unit.

“Dr. Spivak’s approachable and kind demeanor creates an environment of trust between patients, their families, and the healthcare team,” said Critical Care Unit Clinical Manager Edward Valente, RN, BSN, CCRN. “He takes the time to explain the treatments, options and prognosis - sometimes even drawing pictures and diagrams to ensure everyone has complete understanding of the care the patient will be receiving. His calm and composed demeanor, even in high stress situations, consistently brings reassurance to everyone around him.”

This is a press release from Griffin Hospital.

Presentation teaches Ansonia High School students about robotic surgery

A Presentation in Surgical Precision

Griffin Faculty Physicians surgeon Dr. Leeland Soto recently provided Ansonia High School students the opportunity to learn about advances in robotic surgery, including providing them with a hands-on opportunity to operate the state-of-the-art da Vinci Robotic Surgical System used at Griffin Hospital.

The Robotic-Assisted Surgery Program at Griffin Hospital is a multidisciplinary surgical team of specially trained and credentialed surgeons along with a highly experienced team of anesthesiologists, nurses, assistants, and surgical techs who are trained to support each surgeon’s needs during robotic-assisted surgery. 

Griffin's da Vinci Robotic-Assisted Surgery Service Lines include: Bariatric Surgery; Cardiac Surgery; Colorectal Surgery; General Surgery; Gynecologic Surgery; and Head & Neck Surgery.

For more information, visit https://www.griffinhealth.org/treatments/robotic-surgery.

This is a press release from Griffin Health.

Griffin Hospital in Derby earns an 'A' hospital safety grade

DERBY - Griffin Hospital was awarded an ‘A’ in the Spring 2026 Safety Grade from The Leapfrog Group, recognizing its achievements in protecting patients from harm and providing safer health care.

“An ‘A’ Grade is a strong sign that Griffin Hospital is deeply committed to protecting patients from harm,” said Leah Binder, president and CEO of The Leapfrog Group. “We commend the leadership, Board, clinicians, staff and volunteers for the role each played in earning this distinction.”

The Leapfrog Group, an independent national nonprofit watchdog focused on patient safety, assigns an “A,” “B,” “C,” “D” or “F” grade to general hospitals across the country based on over 30 measures of errors, accidents, injuries and infections as well as the systems hospitals have in place to prevent them. 

The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade stands as the only hospital ratings program focused solely on preventable medical errors, infections and injuries. This program is peer-reviewed, fully transparent and free to the public. Grades are updated twice annually, in the fall and spring.

Griffin Hospital attributes the top Leapfrog Safety Grade to the commitment of all its caregivers in delivering exceptional person-centered care. Throughout Griffin Health, every employee and medical staff member is considered a caregiver, meaning they work together to prevent harm to our patients and provide them with the best care experience possible.

Griffin also understands that high-quality care and safety is enhanced when patients, families, and its caregivers are engaged in the entire care planning and delivery experience. 

This appreciation and value for everyone’s unique preferences is supported by Griffin’s ongoing work in establishing a truly person-centered care environment. 

For more than two decades, Griffin’s focus has been guided in close partnership with Planetree International, the global leader in person-centered care (PCC) transformation, and their best-practice PCC Framework which is rooted in research, evidence, and the authentic experiences of all those that give and receive care.

This partnership has strengthened the teamwork and culture required to make achievements like a Leapfrog ‘A’ Safety Grade possible and sustainable as many of the evidence-based measures of patient safety in the Leapfrog Safety Grade align with the standards for Planetree PCC Gold Certification Program®.

The Safety Grade’s focus on health equity, caring communications, which include open discussion of adverse events and family participation in care improvement, and staff engagement and teamwork in preventing errors, are all considered essential elements of person-centered care. 

Similarly, the criteria required for Planetree PCC Gold Certification, including educating caregivers about diversity and assessing community health disparities, prioritizing partnerships with patients’ social support structures, and encouraging participation and ownership by all caregivers in the delivery and continuous improvement of patient care, serve as a driving force behind Griffin Hospital being the nation’s longest continuously Planetree PCC certified hospital, and reflect its dedication to delivering truly exceptionally safe and effective health care.

To explore Griffin’s full grade details and to find valuable tips for staying safe in the hospital, visit www.HospitalSafetyGrade.org.

To explore Planetree’s PCC Framework and Certification Program, visit www.planetree.org.

For more information about Griffin Health, visit www.griffinhealth.org.

This is a press release from Griffin Health.