A Message from Chief Executive, Jeremy S. Zoch, PhD, MHA, FACHE

During these unprecedented times, there are many things to find faith and hope in. I’ve appreciated the arrival of spring with all its vibrancy—the crisp morning air, the songs of birds (which seem louder than ever!) and flowers of every color. And like most of you, it’s also been an opportunity to spend some extra time with my family including movie nights, bike rides and conversation!

At St. Joseph Hospital, I have had the honor of watching caregivers and medical staff work together to maintain and broaden our continuum of care. Our caregivers are committed to nurturing the spiritual, emotional and physical well-being of the Dear Neighbor. And I, and our staff, have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of generosity and kindness from our community, in turn.

To our caregivers.

My thanks to you for the dedication, flexibility and compassion you bring each day to work. I’m inspired by our physician partners and nursing team, and all those who provide critical support services—including but not limited to environmental services, cafeteria staff, case management, chaplains, respiratory therapists, registration, central supply, therapists, phlebotomists, safety and security, and countless other individuals here at St. Joseph Hospital. Each of you play a critical role in providing quality, safe care for our patients and helping keep our communities safe. I’m so proud that even during this challenging time, our patient experience scores remain extremely high—truly a testament to our commitment to quality, compassionate care.

To the families of our caregivers.

While many families are currently sheltered at home, your loved ones continue come into work to assist in the care for others. You have my gratitude.

To our community.

The support and generosity extended by individuals, families, and businesses and restaurants alike has overwhelmed all of us. We are grateful for the countless donations we’ve received including personal protective equipment, lunches and dinners, and drinks and snacks for our caregivers. Our caregivers have particularly appreciated the artwork and notes we’ve received from community children.

On April 19, our community hosted a parade with a seemingly never-ending line of cars, trucks, and motorcycles with the Orange Police and Orange Fire Departments leading and closing the parade. What an incredibly uplifting experience to see our community come together in a show of support for St. Joseph Hospital!

I would like to thank all of you in our community for your efforts in this fight against COVID-19. Your adherence to social distancing rules have helped to reduce the spread of the disease and protect our vulnerable populations. If you’re able, another way you can help is to continue to donate blood. Donating blood products continues to be safe and essential to community health and the need is constant. Please visit www.RedCross.org to find a blood drive near you.

As we continue down this road, we want to assure you that we are here to treat you and your families for all your healthcare needs. Patient care and safety remains our top priority. We have established triage processes so that patients are screened prior to entering our facility. Those showing possible symptoms of Covid-19 utilize a separate entrance and are treated in a separate area of our facility by physicians and caregivers equipped with the appropriate personal protective equipment.

If you are experiencing a medical emergency, including heart attack or stroke symptoms, please do not hesitate to seek treatment. Our Emergency Care Center is open and safe for all. Delaying treatment can be perilous. Please know that our highly skilled care team is prepared to care for you safely no matter your need. Do not be afraid to seek the necessary medical treatment you need.

We here at St. Joseph Hospital strive to improve the health and quality of life in our community and remain steadfast in serving all with compassion, dignity, justice, excellence, and integrity. Thank you, Dear Neighbor, for being a community partner for us, and we will remain that for you. While our world has changed, our community has grown closer together. I wish you all brighter days ahead!

Thank you for your continued support.

Jeremy S. Zoch, Chief Executive

St. Joseph Hospital