Source: Cape May County Hearald
PART ONE
As one might expect, a 125-year history spanning growth from a converted farmhouse to a healthcare system serving a community from 101 locations across five counties, comes with many trailblazers and firsts. For example, in February 1907 construction began on a new AtlantiCare building which had 150 beds, 97 of which were reserved for patients who could not pay for care. This launched a 125-year commitment to meeting the needs of the underserved and ensuring health equity regardless of financial ability.
Other AtlantiCare firsts include televising the first surgery in color and opening the region’s first cardiac catheterization lab (1988) and arrhythmia center (2004). In 2013, they also opened a $18.1 million cancer care facility, with the latest treatment equipment, in the AtlantiCare Health Park in Cape May Court House.
AtlantiCare’s Stroke Center—the only comprehensive stroke center in southeastern New Jersey—received the Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval and the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association Heart-Check mark for Comprehensive Stroke Center Certification for the fourth time.
“This anniversary is a testament to the unwavering commitment of our healthcare professionals and the enduring support of our community,” said David Goddard, chair of the AtlantiCare Board. “We look forward to continuing our legacy of providing compassionate care for generations to come.”
While respecting all its historical precedents, AtlantiCare’s yearlong 125th celebration focuses on meeting today’s needs and ensuring future services exist to provide exceptional care as needs change and the community grows.
Currently, AtlantiCare:
– Serves the community from 101 locations across five counties
– Employs 7,000 people
– Operates 12 urgent care sites, 23 Primary Care Plus and affiliate locations; 66 specialty care locations and 6 Federally Qualified Health Centers
– Has provided over $1 billion in community benefits and charitable giving
AtlantiCare will engage its team and the community in a yearlong celebration through a series of large and small events that show their appreciation for all those who have contributed to their 125-year journey. In addition, the AtlantiCare Foundation will implement two giving campaigns, each with the goal to raise $1.25 million for special projects. One will be related to substance use disorder and the other to combatting social determinants of health including food insecurity and housing.
As for what comes after the 125-year milestone, AtlantiCare is planning for “Vision 2030,” which includes more than $1 billion in investment focused on expanding premier services including behavioral health, cardiology, pulmonology, cancer care, orthopedics, neurology, and the integrating of technology and AI to further enhance the patient and employee experience.