A Calming Presence Comes to Ocean’s Emergency Department

Visiting a hospital’s emergency department (ED) can be an incredibly stressful time, but Hackensack Meridian Ocean University Medical Center is adding a new team member dedicated to easing the burden on patients and caregivers, with help from private philanthropy — including the Boye Foundation — as part of Ocean’s new ED ambassador program.

The ambassador will serve at the Hirair & Anna Hovnanian Emergency Care Center, acting as a liaison between physicians, nurse managers, patients and their families. The ambassador will use their knowledge and medical expertise to elevate communication, serve requests, ease the stress that can come with waiting in the emergency department and treat patients — and their families — with the respect and professionalism they deserve.

“When I heard about this program, we were thrilled to be a part of it,” said Kathryn Mancini, secretary and trustee for The Boye Foundation. “We are proud to support the ambassador program.”

Why Boye Backs Ocean’s New ED Ambassador

The Boye Foundation, a Point Pleasant Beach-based nonprofit that has donated to Hackensack Meridian Health hospitals and causes for nearly 25 years, recently made a generous gift supporting the new ambassador program at Ocean. Kathryn says the gift was inspired by people having a difficult time navigating EDs at hospitals. 

“Many of us have had subpar experiences as patients in emergency departments,” she said. “We hope that by providing dedicated support to patients and families, it will enable doctors, nurses and staff to fully focus on delivering high-quality, efficient medical care. This, in turn, will create a more supportive environment for both patients and the medical team.”

Ocean’s Emergency Department Expands to Meet Demand

Around 64,000 people seek care at Ocean’s ED every year — or about 175 people every day. That represents 60 percent of the total number of patients admitted to the hospital, and as the population of Ocean County continues to grow, Ocean hopes its new ambassador can reduce the strain on a busy department that plays a crucial role in keeping the region healthy. 

“When the facilities don’t grow with the population fast enough, it can be difficult,” said Kathryn. “I hope that it's effective. If it makes the emergency department function at a higher level for everybody, then it’s a positive program, and more hospitals will adopt it.” 

“Local organizations like the Boye Foundation are proactively making our region a healthier and safer place by supporting our emergency department ambassador program, and we are profoundly grateful for their generosity,” said Stephen Maher, MHA, executive director of Development at Ocean University Medical Center Foundation. “The emergency department serves as the front door to our hospital for most of our patients. We hope our new ambassador will ease the weight on our physicians and nurses while showing compassion to our patients and their families, delivering care that reflects our values.”

Strengthening Healthcare at Home

Kathryn says the Boye Foundation strongly focuses on causes related to community and healthcare. This latest act of generosity symbolizes the foundation’s priorities, allowing Ocean to provide better care for everyone who walks through the doors of its ED. 

“Ocean is our community hospital, and we try to keep donations local when we can,” she added. “We’re excited to see it get underway. Fingers crossed that it will be successful!” 

To help support the emergency department ambassador program at Ocean University Medical Center, visit GiveHMH.org/Ocean.