Issue link: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/1427549
8 HARTFORDBUSINESS.COM | NOVEMBER 15, 2021 Commitment to those who are poor, Justice, Stewardship, Integrity, and Safety. In an ever-changing healthcare environment, particularly with staffing and resource challenges right now, it can be difficult to focus on staying true to our core values. But, we believe those challenges make our Mission and values more important than ever. They make a difference for the patient when they're going through the most challenging times of their lives and sets our level of care apart from other hospitals. Q: How does being a Mission-based organization impact the way you provide healthcare? A: Our inspiration comes from the Gospel. Like the Good Samaritan, we reach out to those who society passes by. Jesus told us "go and do likewise," and showing compassion and mercy is a foundational part of Catholic healthcare. It starts with our colleagues; our staff weaves a wonderful tapestry of healing throughout the hospital. We are deeply committed to diversity and inclusion, and we care that your spiritual healing is part of the equation. Our healthcare is designed to treat the whole person: mind, body, and spirit. Q: What is the legacy of the founders of Saint Francis and how does that legacy impact the care you provide today? A: It all started 124 years ago, when the Bishop of Hartford wanted to start a hospital in Hartford for Catholics. At the time, that predominantly meant the Irish who were not wanted elsewhere. Saint Francis Hospital was established in 1897 by the Sisters of Saint Joseph of Chambery, who embarked upon a long journey from France to care for those who needed it most. From the very beginning, the hospital opened their doors to the poorest in the community. Now, coming up on our 125- year anniversary, Saint Francis is continuing the tradition of care that the original Sisters established. Saint Francis is one of a network of hospitals and services known as Trinity Health Of New England. Trinity Health Of New England, part of Trinity Health, the largest Catholic healthcare organization in the U.S., also continues this long tradition of Mission-based care across the region, including Mount Sinai Rehabilitation Hospital in Hartford, Saint Mary's Hospital in Waterbury, Johnson Memorial Hospital in Stafford Springs, and Mercy Medical Center in Springfield. Q: While it's important to honor the past, what do you see for Mission-based healthcare in the future? A: The focus of our Mission isn't going anywhere. Poverty means a whole lot more now than being economically poor. We care for the poor in finances, but also the poor in spirit. When you enter the hospital, you're at the most vulnerable point of your life. Health can be the great equalizer. The key is continuing to offer formation for everyone on the hospital staff, from doctors and nurses, to environmental services and sanitization. Our colleagues know everything they're doing is about compassionate healing. The model for healthcare is changing – people are looking for access in their own communities. And with that, our Mission does not exist solely within the four walls of our hospitals, but moves out into doctor's offices throughout our network and to the community as a whole. Saint Francis Hospital: Where Mission Matters SPONSORED CONTENT W here you get your healthcare matters, and leaders at Saint Francis Hospital believe the Mission behind that healthcare matters more now than ever. In a conversation with Jerry Galipeau, Executive Director of Mission Integration at Saint Francis Hospital, we discuss what that means, and how it benefits both the patient and the community. Q: What does it mean to be a Mission-based organization? A: Our Mission says that we serve together in the spirit of the Gospel as a compassionate and transforming healing presence within our communities. We do this through our Core Values: Reverence, Jerry Galipeau Executive Director of Mission Integration at Saint Francis Hospital