Published March 27, 2025
Mark Andreae, MD, an Emergency Medicine physician in the Milford Campus Intensive Care Unit (ICU), earned PEACE (Patient Experience Award for Caring and Excellence) recognition for his dedication and compassion during a patient’s final hours. Dr. Andreae spent time with the patient and his family, building a strong rapport and ensuring the patient’s best interests and comfort were at the forefront of his care. When the patient’s condition started to deteriorate further, Dr. Andreae gave the family the time they needed to process what was happening. After going home that evening to put his children to bed, Dr. Andreae returned to the hospital to spend the night with the family and keep the patient comfortable. He gave the family a sense of peace and comfort as they watched their loved one pass away.
The son of stroke patient in the Emergency Department nominated Michael Borrero, RN, for providing exceptional care. Borrero was leaving for the day and noticed that the patient and his son were waiting in a room. Borrero took the time to share information with the patient and his son and helped order a necessary scan. “Michael stands out as one of the best care providers I've ever encountered with his combination of expertise and kindness,” said the patient’s son.
Brian Skelly, RN, Emergency Department, was honored for his care of a child with psychiatric and behavioral needs. Despite managing other patients during his busy shift, Skelly gave the patient the time and attention he needed, drawing and playing with him. These actions calmed the patient and allowed him to trust his caregiver, something he was not accustomed to. Skelly’s compassion shone that day and made a difference in the patient’s care.
Deborah Scasino, case manager, Care Management, received PEACE (Patient Experience Award for Caring and Excellence) recognition for creating a care environment of compassion, support and empathy for a patient and family. After being admitted and treated, the elderly patient required a transfer to a rehabilitation facility. Her care team learned that she was the sole caretaker of her elderly brother – they had lived together for more than 75 years – and the separation was traumatic for them. Scasino worked with the rehab facility to get a shared room for the siblings, and the family was very grateful for her assistance.