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.

Griffin Hospital in Derby to host Level 1 Reiki workshop June 2

DERBY - Griffin Hospital will host a Reiki Level 1 Workshop June 2 from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Reiki is a complementary healing method rooted in ancient practices that involves the intentional direction of energy through the practitioner’s hands. 

When channeled properly, this energy relieves energy blockages to the body and brings balance to the energy fields thereby promoting 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 May 29. To register, contact Wendy Farrington at 203-732-7434.

This is a press release from Griffin Health.

Volunteers sought for elder life program at Griffin Hospital in Derby

DERBY - The Hospital Elder Life Program (HELP) at Griffin Hospital is looking for volunteers to provide additional support for elderly patients.

Research shows that between 30 and 50 percent of seniors can experience a decline in their physical and cognitive abilities during a hospital stay.

HELP is a comprehensive, evidence-based, patient care program that provides important connections between volunteers and patients, including mealtime assistance, daily orientation, therapeutic activities, and range of motion exercises, to help patients maintain their optimal level of well-being. HELP volunteers also work in partnership with the doctors and nursing staff to highlight issues specific to geriatric care and to provide education to patients and their families.

Anyone 18 years and older is eligible to volunteer for HELP. No previous medical experience is required, and training and supervision are provided. 

Volunteers are required to give a minimum six-month commitment of one three-hour shift per week for a total of 150 hrs. The program is most needed on weekdays from 4-7 p.m. Limited day shifts are also available, including Saturdays.

College students looking to enter the medical field are encouraged to apply as this opportunity will provide hands-on patient care experience. College scholarship incentives are also available.

To apply or to find out more information, call 203-732-1553 or visit griffinhealth.org/volunteer.

This is a press release from Griffin Hospital.

Griffin Hospital in Derby offers Healthy U lecture series

 DERBY – The Healthy U Lecture Series at the Community Health Resource Center at Griffin Hospital will provide an in-depth discussion about fitness and preventive health with Cardio Health & Well-Being Management on April 15 at 6 p.m.

Led by Griffin Health physicians and experts in cardiovascular and internal medicine, this free program will feature trusted medical insight into fitness, including its heart health benefits, examples of beneficial exercises and risk factors for cardiovascular disease, and how primary care physicians help individuals manage their health through annual wellness checkups and preventive health measures, including recommended screenings based on risk factors. 

Attendees will also learn about Griffin Health resources available to help promote an improved well-being 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 will be held on the third Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. in the Community Health Resource Center. 

The topics for each month are: May - Women's Health; June - Men's Health, Prostate Cancer, and the Health Initiative for Men (HiM); July – Self-Care and Mental Wellness; 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 press release from Griffin Health.

Griffin Center for Healthy Living in Oxford to host The Pantry Challenge

OXFORD – The Griffin Center for Healthy Living is helping individuals clean out their pantries with a free “spicy” cooking demonstration.

The Pantry Challenge will be March 19 from 5-6:15 p.m. at the Griffin Center for Healthy Living Teaching Kitchen, Quarry Walk, 300 Oxford Road 

 Former Executive Director of Massaro Farm and sustainable nutrition expert Caty Poole will discuss random items people tend to have in their pantries that they struggle to figure out how to use. Poole will highlight healthy ways to incorporate these ingredients into delicious options that are cost effective while also preparing homemade chili that can be a great way to use up pantry staples.

Participants are encouraged to bring two-to-three ingredients that they don't know what to do with, or bring a list of items in their pantry that they struggle to use.

This event is free, but seating is limited and reservations are required. 

Visit www.griffinhealth.org/pantry-challenge or contact the Griffin Center for Healthy Living Coordinator at 203-732-1369 to sign up.

Opened in 2020, the Griffin Center for Healthy Living is a unique facility in which Griffin Health partners with the community in wellness – offering education, guidance and assistance in preventing and managing chronic disease, and promoting overall well-being. 

The Center is part of Griffin’s mission to empower individuals to make choices that change their lifestyles for the better, and embodies Griffin’s goal to not only care for individuals when they are not well, but to build a meaningful relationship, guide, and coach them to maximize their quality of life. 

Visit griffinhealthyliving.org for more information about the Center's features and upcoming community events.

This is a press release from Griffin Hospital. 

Griffin Hospital in Derby to host Healthy U lecture series

DERBY - The Healthy U Lecture Series at the Community Health Resource Center at Griffin Hospital will provide an in-depth discussion about the body’s digestive system and ways to care for it with Gastroenterology & Digestive Health March 18 at 6 p.m.

Led by Griffin Health physicians and experts in gastroenterology and surgery, this free program will feature trusted medical insight into digestive health, including common conditions of the upper and lower tract, colorectal cancer, reflux, ulcers, Crohn’s Disease‎/IBF, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Celiac Disease, treatment options, and what individuals can do and the Griffin Health resources available to help promote a healthy digestive system. 

There will be healthy food to sample and try at home and 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 will be held on the third Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. in the Community Health Resource Center. 

The topics for each month are: April - Cardiovascular Health, Fitness, and Auto Immune Disease; May - Women's Health; June - Men's Health, Prostate Cancer, and the Health Initiative for Men (HiM); July – Self-Care and Mental Wellness; August – Breathing and Pulmonary Care; September – Hispanic Health Awareness; October - Cancer Prevention and Genetic Testing; November – Diabetes Management and Pre-diabetes 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 Hospital.

Griffin to hold free virtual weight-loss seminars in March

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

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 this Tuesday, March 3 from 5:30-6:30 p.m.; March 18 from 5:30-6:30 p.m.; and March 24 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

This is a press release from Griffin Hospital.