Three acute care hospitals within the NYC Health + Hospitals system received the Level 2 Special Pathogen Treatment and Network Development (STAND) Award from the National Special Pathogen System (NSPS) on January 15, 2024. This recognition enhances the public health care system’s capacity to safely care for patients with high-consequence infectious diseases. The awardees—Elmhurst, Jacobi, and Harlem hospitals—will each receive up to $500,000 to bolster training, workforce readiness, and operational planning for handling special pathogens.
Dr. Ted Long, Senior Vice President of Ambulatory Care and Population Health at NYC Health + Hospitals, emphasized the institution’s long-standing role at the forefront of infectious disease threats, including the COVID-19 pandemic. “From early detection to specialized treatment and systemwide response, we are building the capacity New Yorkers rely on in moments of uncertainty,” he stated. The STAND Award signifies a continued commitment to infectious disease preparedness and reflects the dedication of the healthcare workforce.
Strengthening National Preparedness
The STAND Award is designed to enhance national readiness among its recipients by improving capabilities related to staff training and infrastructure. Dr. Michelle Morse, Acting Commissioner of the NYC Health Department, noted the importance of these centers in an interconnected world. “As an international travel hub, New York City is a vital part of the nation’s front-line pathogen protection,” she remarked. “The NYC Health Department is committed to its ongoing partnership with NYC Health + Hospitals to prepare the city for emerging public health threats.”
The history of NYC Health + Hospitals in managing infectious diseases includes a notable response to the 2014 Ebola outbreak at the Bellevue Hospital, which is now designated as a Level 1 Regional Emerging Special Pathogen Treatment Center. Bellevue also plays a crucial role in the National Emerging Special Pathogen Training and Education Center (NETEC) consortium, alongside Emory University and the University of Nebraska Medical Center.
John Lowe, Executive Director of the Global Center for Health Security at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, expressed support for the new Level 2 designations. “Their designation strengthens preparedness across HHS Region 2 and contributes to a broader national expansion,” he said. This expansion adds 54 new Special Pathogen Treatment Centers across 28 U.S. states and territories, reinforcing the country’s capabilities for managing high-consequence infectious diseases.
Impact on Local Healthcare Response
The Elmhurst, Jacobi, and Harlem hospitals will collaborate closely with NETEC and other regional partners to maintain readiness standards. These centers aim to deliver specialized care for high-consequence infectious diseases while ensuring a coordinated response during surges.
Dr. Laura Iavicoli, Chief Medical Officer at NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst, expressed pride in the achievement. “Securing the NETEC STAND Level 2 grant is a powerful affirmation of Elmhurst Hospital’s commitment to protecting our patients, our workforce, and our community,” she remarked.
Dr. Vikramjit Mukherjee, Chief of Critical Care and Special Pathogens Program at Bellevue Hospital, highlighted the collaborative efforts within the health system. “We are thrilled with the addition of Elmhurst, Harlem, and Jacobi as Level 2 treatment centers,” he stated, noting the importance of coordinated training and clinical readiness.
The NYC Health + Hospitals System Biopreparedness Team will drive implementation efforts at the award-winning hospitals, ensuring that each facility enhances its special pathogens program. “These awards recognize the extraordinary preparedness and expertise of our frontline teams,” noted Dr. Syra Madad, Chief Biopreparedness Officer.
As NYC Health + Hospitals strengthens its network of specialized treatment centers, it positions itself uniquely within the national landscape, combining both a Level 1 hub and three Level 2 facilities. This integrated system aims to enhance regional surge capacity and provide safe, specialized care when it is needed most.
The leadership at Jacobi Hospital reaffirmed their commitment to readiness. Christopher Mastromano, Chief Executive Officer, stated, “If there’s an outbreak of a high-consequence infectious disease, Jacobi will be ready to respond with the expertise and specialized care our community needs.”
In closing, Dr. Georges H. Leconte, Chief Executive Officer at NYC Health + Hospitals/Harlem, emphasized their dedication to patient care. “This designation significantly enhances our preparedness and capacity to safely manage patients with infectious diseases that pose significant risks,” he said. The commitment from these hospitals is clear: they are prepared to meet the challenges posed by infectious diseases head-on.
