In 2014, Martin Health System reached a major milestone in its history – 75 years of serving the health care needs of the Treasure Coast. This jubilee celebration came on the heels of opening a third hospital (in December 2013), making it a pivotal time for the organization to pause and honor its mission and achievements over the years.

 

The celebration kicked off in May at the city of Stuart’s centennial parade with a large contingent of Martin Health associates promoting the 75 years of service. On May 13, the Stuart Heritage Society held a historical tribute to Martin Health at the Lyric Theatre. A special recognition program, the “Essence of Martin Health,” was created to highlight associates and volunteers who carry out the Martin Health mission and make a difference in the lives of their patients and/or family members. Throughout the year, Martin Health has looked to recognize the history and accomplishments of the organization, as well as the good works of the individuals who provide care for the community.

 

Other highlights of this momentous year included:

In its commitment to offer local patients access to the latest in comprehensive cancer treatment, the Robert and Carol Weissman Cancer Center at Martin Health established a new Center for Lung Health. Featuring Dennis Tishko, M.D., a board-certified thoracic surgeon with 21 years of experience in the field, the Center for Lung Health was developed to address the high incidence of lung cancer in Martin and St. Lucie counties.

 

Thanks to the generosity of philanthropic donors, Martin Health added the TrueBeam system to its array of radiation oncology services at the Robert and Carol Weissman Cancer Center. The first of its kind on the Treasure Coast, TrueBeam was designed to deliver highly focused radiation treatments tailored to each patient’s needs with unparalleled ease and speed.

 

As part of a progressive and innovative approach to the management of complex chronic diseases, such as diabetes, obesity, heart and lung disease, Martin Health developed a new program that brings pharmacists into the primary care physician’s office. With their expertise in medication management, the pharmacists are making a significant difference by working directly with patients who have one or more chronic conditions and are taking multiple medications. Patients not only gain a better understanding of their conditions and the prescriptions they take, they have a personal advocate helping them take control of their health.

 

In June, Martin Health launched the most advanced critical care telemedicine program available in hospital intensive care units at Tradition Medical Center in Port St. Lucie. Martin Health partnered with Advanced ICU Care® to have around-the-clock monitoring of patients in the intensive care unit by highly trained intensivist physicians and critical care specialists. Using special computer technology and working closely with each patient’s doctor, these specialists provide an extra layer of care to enhance the safety of patients.

 

Martin Health unveiled a fresh, contemporary online presence with the launch of a new website in October. The responsive website features enhanced navigation, fast and easy social media sharing, a new eNewsletter to stay abreast of the latest health care news, online registration for Martin Health classes and events, interactive slideshows and videos, and a redesigned physician directory. The website has been well received as an easy-to-navigate resource for information about Martin Health services, physicians, and news and events.

 

As 2014 comes to a close, Martin Health is grateful to the community for its generous support that allows the organization to stay on top of cutting-edge technologies and advancements in health care delivery. Looking forward, Martin Health will continue to focus on providing access to exceptional health care and being at the forefront of new procedures, tools and programming that can enhance the experience of its patients throughout the Treasure Coast.