Cleveland Clinic recently announced that it has completed the purchase of Dallas-based Tenet Healthcare Corporation’s interest in the Cleveland Clinic Hospital in Weston, FL. As of October 1, the Clinic will become the sole owner of the entire Cleveland Clinic Florida campus that includes the hospital and an attached outpatient medical office.

As a wholly integrated medical campus, Cleveland Clinic Florida will fully incorporate Cleveland Clinic’s unique model of medicine – a non-profit group-practice which emphasizes patient care supported by research and education. Over the next three months, and under the leadership of Bernardo Fernandez, M.D., Chief Executive Officer of Cleveland Clinic Florida, employees at the Weston hospital will transition their employment to Cleveland Clinic.

“Uniting as one team will best allow us to provide the quality of care that has made Cleveland Clinic one of the world’s leading academic medical centers, while continuing to meet the growing healthcare needs of patients in south Florida,” says Delos “Toby” Cosgrove, M.D., President and Chief Executive Officer of Cleveland Clinic in Ohio.

“Once complete, this transition will allow us to streamline and simplify some of our systems and processes. Our patients will experience no disruption of care or services as a result of the ownership change,” says Michael O’Boyle, Chief Operating Officer at Cleveland Clinic. “All current Cleveland Clinic Florida physicians will continue to treat Cleveland Clinic Hospital patients and perform surgical procedures onsite at the Weston campus.

“The Cleveland Clinic and Tenet have enjoyed a longstanding partnership and are committed to working closely to ensure a smooth transition for our patients, employees and staff,” says Cosgrove. “We are continuing to make significant investments in our Florida operations and intend to remain an outstanding employer in the area,” he added.



Whenever I contemplate the future the view is clouded by the past. It may be that I’ve been working in South Florida’s health system since this time in 1973. It may be that much of what I can predict for 2007 has surely occurred in one or more of the intervening years. Of course those of you who know me aren’t surprised at the cynic’s view. You’ve seen me quoted here and elsewhere about such seemingly irresolvable challenges as growing numbers of uninsured, expanding burden of uncompensated care, growing rift between hospitals and doctors, looming shortages of appropriately educated and trained healthcare professionals, and increasingly curious consumers and patients who actually believe they have a right to pick between ever-more competitive health plans and providers.

So where are those glimmers of clarity and light in the crystal ball coming from? Why would this skeptic hold out hope for 2007 as a better year for South Florida’s healthcare system? Here are my clues:

  • A national shift away from war and toward interest in domestic policies, including the American Hospital Association’s leadership role in the development of solutions for the uninsured, liability reform, mental health parity, realistic quality measures.
  • Idealistic new leadership in Tallahassee that appear open to working with the South Florida Hospital & Healthcare Association’s (SFHHA) membership on some doable deeds such as reauthorization of mandatory personal injury protection automobile insurance, and funding for the next steps of our South Florida Health Information Initiative and more public-private affordable housing partnerships.
  • An SFHHA strategic plan that assigns each committee and task force specific objectives for the next two years of work. The most dedicated and ambitious leadership and enthusiastic membership of the Association has agreed to commit time, talent and resources to getting these things done and success is the only option. In addition to those group efforts, the Board will be hosting trips to Tallahassee and Washington, DC, and convening another “summit” in the spring so that we can showcase “what works” from around the country and around the block.
  • Strategic alliances are also reasons for optimism and provide promise for even the most weary among us. SFHHA has developed a terrific working relationship with WorkForce One, the workforce development board for Broward County, and are now beginning to find common initiatives with Miami-Dade’s South Florida Workforce as well. The Florida Hospital Association has a new board and new members from South Florida, and a chance to once again be the unified voice of all the state’s hospitals. SFHHA will continue to work with FHA on legislation and regulation impacting our mutual membership.

Finally, on a practical note, 2007 should be a very good year. SFHHA is getting new association management software and revamped website that will facilitate communications among our members and our staff. We will be finding a new home for our offices and have already begun acquiring the technology we need to be more efficient and effective. What won’t change is the organization’s commitment to identifying the health systems’ needs and pursuing the collective action needed to be taken. My crystal ball is very clear about that.



Francis Afram-Gyening learned early in life about the importance of caring for others, and that basic lesson continues to guide his myriad humanitarian efforts today.

“When we were growing up, my mother instilled in us the importance of helping the frail, the poor and the sick the sick, among us,” said Afram-Gyening, Director of Operations for Primary Care Services at Memorial Regional Hospital in Hollywood, FL and an active volunteer with numerous non-for-profit organizations in the Miami area.

As a result of that maternal lesson, Afram-Gyening has become involved with numerous organizations that share the same philosophy – give of one’s self in every way possible to improve the life, health and well being of others.

A prime example of Afram-Gyening’s commitment to that mission of service is his affiliation with Camillus Health Concern (CHC), Inc. in Miami. Sponsored by the Brothers of the Good Shepherd, CHC is a not-for-profit organization providing comprehensive primary health care services to the homeless and low-income populations of Miami-Dade County. These include medical, dental, podiatry, mental health and case management services for adults and children. The programs also include physical therapy, confidential HIV testing, counseling and treatment and clinical psychology.

“Our board works very closely with Alina Perez-Stable, President and CEO of CHC, and the medical staff to set and carry out policies, which strengthen all clinical, operational and programmatic process to benefit the homeless,” said Afram-Gyening, who currently serves as vice-chairman of the CHC Board of Directors and chairman of its Finance Committee.

Also benefiting from Afram-Gyening’s time, talents and commitment is the Camillus House, where he volunteers on the Finance Committee and the South Florida Healthcare Executive Forum (SFHEF), Inc., where he’s been an active member since 2001. The SFHEF is a fully chartered chapter of the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE), organized to provide opportunities for professional development through educational and social services. Afram-Gyening has held numerous leadership positions with the SFHEF, including that of president for the organization in 2005.

The fundamental tenets which guide Afram-Gyening’s volunteer efforts also apply in his current position as the Director of Operations for the Primary Care Services at Memorial Regional Hospital. Memorial Regional Hospital is part of the Memorial Healthcare System, a public, tax assisted not-for-profit health care provider serving South Broward County. The health care system’s mission is to provide safe, quality, cost-effective, customer-focused services to its patients regardless of their ability to pay.

In addition to his professional and philanthropic work, Afram-Gyening has received a few accolades in his career. In 2002, he was among 50 South Florida healthcare executives that were selected by the Miami-Dade County Office of the Mayor and the Board of County Commissioners as part of the Mayor’s Health Care Access Task Force, which has its primary responsibility finding suitable solutions to the uninsured and underinsured challenges in the County. In 2004, Afram-Gyening was honored by the American College of Healthcare Executives with its Early Career Healthcare Executive Award.

In looking ahead to extending his volunteer efforts, Afram-Gyening’s goals include:

  • Camillus Health Concern – Seek funding to expand dental services for the homeless.
  • SFHEF – Develop strong relationships with seasoned health care executives in South Florida to help mentor students and young professionals.

Because of his commitment to mentorship, Afram-Gyening mentors one graduate student every year at St. Thomas, Barry and Florida International universities.

“I firmly believe it’s important that we make time to mentor and guide young people and help them develop their careers,” Afram-Gyening said. “I have been fortunate to have had outstanding mentors in my life, and I’m deeply grateful to all of them. I feel a deep responsibility to share what I have learned with others and provide opportunities for others.”

Given his track record of success, it’s obvious those qualities, and a firm commitment to give in a selfless manner, will continue to guide Afram-Gyening in his career and his avocation of service to those who benefit from all that he does.

Francis Afram-Gyening At A Glance

Education – Bachelor of Science degree in accounting, Magna Cum Laude, York College (City University of New York), Jamaica, NY; Master of Public Health degree in health policy and management, Columbia University School of Public Health, New York City. He also is board certified in healthcare management, a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives, and a certified public purchasing officer.

Career – Prior to assuming his present position at Memorial Regional Hospital in October 2003, Afram-Gyening worked in administrative positions, including vice president of corporate affairs, at Economic Opportunity Family Health Center in Miami and in administrative positions with the New York City Department of Health.

Recognition – In November 2004, he was the recipient of the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE) Early Healthcare Career Regent’s Award. He also was a Columbia University Public Health scholarship recipient and has been featured in several publications including ACHE Healthcare Executive Magazine and Healthcare Professional Journal.

Community Involvement – Camillus Health Concern, Inc., vice chairman, Board of Directors; South Florida Healthcare Executive Forum, Inc., serving as president in 2005; Regent’s Advisory Council, ACHE Southern Florida Division; Advisory Board Member, Barry University School of Natural & Health Sciences;American College of Healthcare Executives.

Teaching Experience – Adjunct faculty for Barry University and St. Thomas University.

All in the Family – Afram-Gyening has a brother, Dr. Albert Gyening, who is a dermatologist and a sister, Vida Gyening, who is a certified nurse midwife.



For the past three months, in the quiet sanctuary of her Delray Beach home, a hospice patient has looked forward to and welcomed visits from a Hospice of Palm Beach County Integrative Therapist. “She brings sunshine into my life,” Maureen said. “Visits from her are a dream come true!”

The Integrative Therapist visits Maureen at least once a week – bringing with her a positive attitude, a gentle touch and that particular brand of caring for which Hospice of Palm Beach County staff are known. “The massage therapy is relaxing. It takes my mind off of things. For me, it is such a nice release from the pain in my life.”

Hospice of Palm Beach County Integrative Therapists Carol Black (left) and Timi Storms use aromatherapy, as one of many modalities, to reduce pain and provide comfort and relaxation for patients.

Throughout the centuries, people have used music, art, plants, herbs, imagery and touch to comfort and heal. Hospice of Palm Beach County combines these age old practices with clinical therapies to address the unique physical, social, emotional, spiritual and cognitive needs of our patients.

Massage therapy is one of the many services provided through Harmony Integrative Therapies, a program of Hospice of Palm Beach County. Integrative Therapists, who are Licensed Massage Therapists, bring comfort through gentle touch modalities. Harmony Integrative Therapies is one of several programs outside of the normal scope of hospice services that make Hospice of Palm Beach County a leader in hospice and palliative care.

To say there is a need for these programs is an understatement. Last year, the John J. Brogan Horizons Bereavement Center provided grief and loss support to more than 6,800 people through individual and group counseling and workshop series. Open to patients’ families, friends and the entire community, it is the one program offered in Palm Beach County that every child, teen and adult might use at some point in his or her lifetime. Last year:

  • 42 support groups were conducted in area schools helping 300 children and teens
  • SHARE pregnancy, infant and child loss counselors helped 200 parents, grandparents, siblings and caregivers heal from the loss of a child
  • The Crisis Response Team was involved in 480 crisis situations ranging from supporting co-workers after a sudden death in the workplace to counseling police, fire and emergency departments’ staff who witnessed the tragic death of a child
  • Integrative therapists made over 1,000 visits
  • Music therapists made nearly 6,000 visits

“When someone is facing a life limiting illness, their bodies have become a battlefield – a war between the disease and often invasive treatments – throwing them completely off balance,” said Integrative Therapies Manager Chelsea Johnson. “Integrative therapies, including music therapy, palliative massage, aromatherapy, and Reiki, provide an effective way to not only give them back some control in their life but also to restore a sense of balance.”

Massage Therapy is one of the many services provided through Harmony, a program of Hospice of Palm Beach County.

A music therapist offered her services to a patient, Emily, residing in a nursing home, who at first politely declined. But when Emily was asked if she would like to hear the music therapist play her harp, she replied, “Oh play a song- just so I can say I’ve heard it.” Softness came across the patient’s face, then a smile, and before too long she began singing along. “This reminds me of the time when I was a young woman, and …,” Emily shared as she related stories of her life with the therapist – and then asked for another song. At the end of the session Emily said, “Please come again. I really enjoyed that and feel much better.” The staff reported that the patient was much brighter and more interactive than she had ever seen her.

Massage Therapy is one of the many services provided through Harmony, a program of Hospice of Palm Beach County.

Counselors with the John J. Brogan Horizons Bereavement Center also use music, art, imagery and life review to help children, teens and adults deal with their grief and loss issues. “Working through grief is a difficult process requiring hard work and dedication on the part of the bereaved,” said Bereavement Manager Clarinda Shabazz. “We strive to provide the best type of environment for each individual to express their feelings and heal. In order to do this we provide bereavement support to everyone in the community, school support groups, educational and informational workshops, Crisis Response Team, SHARE, SeaStar Retreat and Changing Horizons.”

While the cost of many Hospice of Palm Beach County programs and services are covered through the Hospice Medicare, Medicaid or private insurance benefits, programs such as Harmony Integrative Therapies and services offered through the John J. Brogan Horizons Bereavement Center are funded through donated dollars. These programs make a difference in the lives of so many. Maureen’s and Emily’s praises for these services are echoed by so many patients, families and members of the community.



The North Broward Hospital District (NBHD) has named Calvin E. Glidewell Chief Executive Officer of Imperial Point Medical Center.

Glidewell currently serves as chief executive officer of University Community Hospital – Carrollwood, in Tampa, FL. He has served in that position since 2006. Prior to that, he served as CEO of University Community Hospital, a major tertiary hospital in Tampa. He served in that position from 2001 through 2006. Prior to that, he was the Vice President of Marketing for University Community Hospital.

“I am extremely excited about the opportunity to join the staff and physicians of Imperial Point Medical Center as their new CEO,” said Calvin Glidewell. “I feel privileged to lead an institution with such a proud tradition of stewardship and service to its community. Our planned Emergency Department expansion and medical office building development will further broaden our commitment and provide enhanced access to our patients and visitors.”

Glidewell received his MBA from Tulane University and his bachelor’s from Vanderbilt University. He is a member of several civic and professional associations including the Legislative Policy Committee for the Florida Hospital Association and the American College of Healthcare Executives.