LINCOLN news September 2025
POWERING PROGRESS, TOGETHER. IN THIS ISSUE STRIDES FOR BREAST CANCER NATIONAL RECOVERY MONTH COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT AFRICAN HERITAGE CELEBRATION INVESTING IN BRONX MENTAL HEALTH
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A Message from Cristina Contreras, LMSW, MPA, FABC, DHL Chief Executive Officer
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OUR DIVERSITY IS OUR STRENGTH
At Lincoln, we don’t shy away from diversity, we embrace it.
My goal is to make Lincoln a place where every employee, patient and community member feels welcomed, supported, and included. We are proud of the diversity among our staff, as well as the communities we serve. Over the last year, my administration has taken measurable steps to foster an inclusive and culturally responsive care environment. We have increased employee engagement events, especially events that celebrate the rich diversity of our staff. Celebrating events such as Diwali, Jewish Heritage Month, National Hijab Day, Black History Month, Latino Heritage Month, Dominican Independence Day, Cinco de Mayo, Latino Heritage Month, as well as participating in the Dominican, Puerto Rican and West Indian Day Parades, have brought us all together to learn more about our varied backgrounds, cultures and perspectives. Diversity is especially important in healthcare, because it is a critical factor in ensuring equitable and high-quality care for all patients. Studies have shown that when healthcare providers reflect the diversity of the communities they serve, it leads to better outcomes for patients and better performance for healthcare organizations. Therefore, it’s important to have a healthcare workforce which represents our communities as it relates to race/ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, immigration status, and socioeconomic level, to deliver the best possible care to our diverse patient populations. At Lincoln, we are proud of our diverse workforce, which is a major factor in delivering culturally competent care, minimizing cultural and language barriers, and leading to faster diagnoses and more effective treatments. Creating an inclusive workplace culture where differences are respected is an ongoing process that requires commitment from all of us. This culture not only enhances employee engagement and satisfaction, but also drives innovation and creativity, and creates better outcome for our patients. Working together, I know that we can foster an environment where differences are respected, and we all feel we can contribute fully without fear of exclusion or discrimination.
Creating an inclusive workplace culture where differences are respected is an ongoing process that requires commitment from all of us.
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DEPARTMENT & EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH
SPOTLIGHTS
Admitting Department Please join us in congratulating the Admitting department on being selected as Department of the Month. This honor is a direct reflection of the team’s hard work and dedication, based on wonderful feedback from patients and colleagues. Patient comments praised the team’s professionalism and caring nature, noting how they create a welcoming environment: “They answered all my questions and made me feel less anxious at a time when I was scared and vulnerable. God Bless them.”
Elizabeth Ramirez Food Service Aide, Dietary
Please join us in congratulating Elizabeth Ramirez, Dietary Food Service Associate, on being named September’s Employee of the Month! In her three years at Lincoln, Elizabeth’s incredible dedication has been recognized by both colleagues and patients alike. One colleague shared: “As a dedicated Food Service Associate at Lincoln, Elizabeth consistently demonstrates exceptional commitment by going above and beyond to serve our patients... Many patients have sent heartfelt notes and drawings for Elizabeth. They beautifully demonstrate the significant impact she has made at Lincoln.”
“They are very helpful and they make you feel welcomed”
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LEADERSHIP APPOINTMENTS
Davy Diongson Director of Quality Management
We are thrilled to announce the appointment of Davy Diongson to our leadership team. A mission-driven healthcare executive, Davy brings over 20 years of extensive experience dedicated to advancing quality improvement, patient safety, and risk management across health plans, hospitals, and ambulatory care. Davy has a proven track record of enhancing CMS Star Ratings performance and ensuring full compliance with complex regulatory standards, including HEDIS, NCQA, and DOH. He excels at translating data into actionable strategies and leading cross-functional teams toward measurable improvements. Most recently, as Director of Quality Improvement at Fidelis Care, he directed enterprise-wide initiatives for Medicare and Medicaid lines. His deep expertise in quality and risk management, combined with his foundational experience as a Trauma and ICU Registered Nurse, gives him a unique perspective on patient-centered care.
Lincoln Hospital is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Kecia-Ann Blissett as our new Vice Chair of Behavioral Health. Dr. Blissett brings over a decade of leadership from within the NYC Health + Hospitals system, where she served as Medical Director for both Virtual ExpressCare and Digital Behavioral Health. In these roles, she led major initiatives to expand access to high-quality care. Dr. Blissett successfully launched innovative telehealth programs, bringing child psychiatry consults to pediatric emergency rooms and establishing teleconsult support for patients with opioid use disorder. Before her time at NYC Health + Hospitals, she held leadership roles at Mount Sinai-Beth Israel. Dr. Blissett is dedicated to advancing accessible behavioral health care through collaborative partnerships and innovative models. Please join us in welcoming her to the Lincoln Hospital team. Kecia-Ann Blissett Vice Chair of Psychiatry, Behavioral Health
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Making Strides For Breast Cancer Lincoln Hospital Rallies for Breast Cancer Awareness
L incoln Hospital is actively raising funds for the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk, a significant annual event dedicated to fighting breast cancer. This year’s walk will take place on Saturday, October 26th, at Bay Plaza. The hospital’s efforts are centered on supporting the South Bronx community it serves, where the need for awareness and support services is critical. The Making Strides event, organized by the American Cancer Society, helps fund groundbreaking breast cancer research, provide patient support, and ensure greater access to screenings and information for those who need it most.
Breast cancer presents a serious health challenge across New York City, but its impact is especially felt in the South Bronx. According to the New York State Department of Health, breast cancer is the most diagnosed cancer among women in the city. More specifically, data often shows that residents in the Bronx face higher rates of diagnosis at later stages of the disease. This can be due to a variety of socioeconomic factors and barriers to healthcare. The American Cancer Society notes that communities like the South Bronx face distinct challenges that can prevent
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Making Strides For Breast Cancer
that brought together hospital leadership and local talent for a night of laughter. The show featured a unique lineup of performers, including Lincoln’s own CEO Cristina Contreras, CFO Zhishen Yang, and COO Michael Rawlings. They were joined by two popular local comedians, Davinci Beau and Tommy Pena. The event was a major success, not only in raising funds but also in strengthening community bonds. As the October 26th walk approaches, Lincoln Hospital encourages everyone to get involved. Community members can join the Lincoln Hospital team, make a donation, or simply show up to support the walkers at Bay Plaza.
were held on-site, offering a variety of pre-packaged goods. This provided an easy and accessible way for hospital staff, patients, and visitors to contribute to the cause while enjoying a treat. A highlight of the fundraising efforts was a Comedy Show
early detection. These can include difficulties in accessing consistent medical care, lower rates of health insurance coverage, and a lack of awareness about the importance of regular screenings. When individuals struggle to get time off work or find transportation for appointments, preventative care like mammograms can be delayed. Lincoln Hospital’s participation in the walk aims to directly address these disparities by raising both funds and awareness right in the heart of the community it serves. To support its fundraising goals, the team at Lincoln Hospital organized several engaging events. Bake sales
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EARLY DETECTION HELPED OVER 4 MILLION WOMEN BEAT BREAST CANCER The statistics surrounding breast cancer underscore the importance of early detection. The American Cancer Society estimates that approximately 1 in 8 women in the United States will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of their lifetime. While this number is significant, it is equally important to know that survival rates are dramatically higher when the cancer is found early.
Detecting cancer in its initial stages allows for more effective and less invasive treatment options, leading to better outcomes for patients. This is why public health messaging so strongly emphasizes the need for regular self-checks and adherence to recommended screening schedules. Knowing your body and reporting any changes to a doctor, along with getting regular mammograms, are the most powerful tools available in the fight against breast cancer. It is a simple but vital message that Lincoln Hospital is working to amplify.
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September is National Recovery Month , a time dedicated to increasing
connect patients from the emergency department with a dedicated team for up to a year, offering support and connection to addiction services, medical care, and other community-based resources. By fostering continuous and compassionate care, Lincoln is committed to saving lives and supporting every step of the recovery journey.
awareness and understanding of mental and substance use disorders and celebrating the people who recover. This observance is especially crucial for the South Bronx community. According to city data, the Bronx has the highest rate of opioid overdose death in New York City, and while there was a slight citywide decrease in 2023, overdose deaths have tragically increased by over 100% since the COVID-19 pandemic began. In recognition of this critical health issue, NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln observed National Recovery Month by hosting a tabling event to provide vital resources and information to the community. This effort aligns with the hospital’s new “Hotspotting” pilot program, an innovative initiative designed to support people with opioid use disorder. The program will
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FASHION AT LINCOLN NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln recently partnered with Quisqueya Es Moda to host a fashion show celebrating local Dominican and Latino creativity. The event provided a platform for talented designers from our community to showcase their work. This initiative underscores CEO Cristina Contreras’ deep commitment to community representation. By actively engaging with and celebrating local culture, the hospital reinforces its connection with the diverse residents it serves, ensuring they feel both seen and valued within its walls.
STRIVE TO EMPOW
Demonstrating her strong commitment to community empowerment, Cristina Contreras, CEO of NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln, recently showed her support at the 100 Hispanic Women National, Inc. gala. The event celebrated its incredible 30-year legacy of empowering and uplifting Latinas.
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BELLA’S FASHION CEO Cristina Contreras was recently honored at Bella’s Fashion Gala. Ms. Contreras was recognized for her exceptional leadership and unwavering dedication, qualities that strongly resonate with Bella’s long- standing mission.
WER
Across all these events, a powerful and consistent message emerges about the importance of active community engagement and empowerment. Whether celebrating local Latino designers within the hospital’s walls, being honored for uplifting Latinas, or supporting organizations dedicated to their advancement, Ms. Contreras’ actions paint a clear picture. Her leadership extends far beyond hospital administration. It is a visible, hands- on commitment to championing the culture, talent, and success of the community she serves, ensuring that the people of the Bronx feel seen, valued, and empowered by their local institutions.
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O n the anniversary community gathered for a solemn remembrance ceremony to honor the lives lost in the tragic attacks of 2001. Staff, local first responders, and community members came together to pay tribute and reflect on a day that forever changed our city and nation. of September 11th, the Lincoln Hospital The ceremony paid special tribute to the bravery of the first responders who ran toward danger and recognized the tireless efforts of healthcare heroes, many from our own NYC Health + Hospitals system, who served in the aftermath. A moment of silence was
Lincoln Hospital remains committed to honoring their memory through our dedicated service to the community. We will never forget.
observed to remember the victims and reflect on the incredible heroism displayed. Our ceremony served as a poignant reminder of the spirit of unity and altruism that emerged from the tragedy.
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Community Advisory Board A SHARED VISION FOR HEALTH
services, and strengthen health outreach programs.
invaluable feedback, share the community’s perspective on health needs, and help ensure that Lincoln’s services are responsive, accessible, and culturally sensitive. Their role as advocates is fundamental to the hospital’s mission. During the retreat, discussions centered on the improvements and future plans that CEO Cristina Contreras looks to engage in towards making sure Lincoln Hospital is seen as a cornerstone of care for the South Bronx. Ms. Contreras looks to find innovative ways to improve the patient experience, expand access to specialized
NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln recently held a collaborative retreat with its dedicated Community Advisory Board (CAB). The event brought together hospital leadership and community representatives for a vital discussion on current initiatives and future strategic focuses aimed at continuously enhancing patient care for the South Bronx community. The Lincoln CAB is an essential volunteer group composed of local residents and leaders who act as a crucial bridge between the hospital and the diverse neighborhoods it serves. They provide
The success of this partnership is to the dedication of its members. NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln extends its gratitude to the Lincoln CAB Chairperson, Richard Izquierdo, for his leadership and unwavering support. His commitment to fostering a strong, collaborative relationship is instrumental in driving meaningful progress. The insights from the retreat will help shape a patient-care model that truly reflects the voice of the community.
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EVS Week HONORING OUR UNSUNG HEROES
We celebrated National Environmental Services Week with a special event filled with fun and games for our incredible EVS team! It was our opportunity to honor our unsung heroes, who serve as the hospital’s first line of defense against infection. Their tireless work ensuring every room and patient care area is maintained to the highest standards of safety and cleanliness is essential to our mission. The celebration was a small token of our immense gratitude for their unwavering dedication.
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In tribute to culture and partnership, NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln recently hosted a special African Heritage Celebration. The event brought together esteemed African community members, representatives, and hospital leadership to honor the rich, diverse cultures of the African diaspora and to strengthen the bond between the hospital and the community it serves. Addressing the attendees, CEO Cristina Contreras reaffirmed her unwavering commitment to enhancing inclusivity for the African community. She outlined key goals, including expanding language services to better accommodate the multitude of languages spoken by the African diaspora and actively working to grow more culturally sensitive support systems within the hospital. The message was powerfully echoed by Chief Nursing Officer Irene Ondieki. Drawing from her professional experience and her personal perspective as a proud Kenyan, Ms. Ondieki emphasized the necessity of these initiatives and voiced her full support for the community’s needs. The event’s significance was underscored by the attendance of distinguished guests, including Bronx Borough President Vanessa Gibson, Dr. Elgoria Harrison of Lehman College, Mamadou Drame of the Senegalese Association, and Deputy Commissioner of Community Affairs for the Mayor’s Office, Famod Konneh. Their presence highlighted a shared vision for a healthcare environment where every individual feels truly seen, heard, and respected. Celebrating African Heritage
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Investing in Excellence CELEBRATING NURSING DEVELOPMENT WEEK
Lincoln is proud to have such an experienced and dedicated nursing team and remains committed to supporting their professional and personal growth every step of the way.
Our leadership got to hear all about our nurses personal stories, diverse backgrounds, and the unique journeys that led them to the nursing profession.
Nursing Development Week, is an annual celebration dedicated to investing in the continuous professional growth and lifelong learning of our nursing staff. This important week recognizes the commitment our nurses make to honing their skills and expanding their knowledge to provide the best possible patient care. A highlight of the week was a special event where our leadership had the valuable opportunity to meet with our dedicated Nursing Educators and staff.
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Expanding Mental Health Care INVESTING IN THE FUTURE OF BRONX MENTAL HEALTH
In a landmark collaboration to address the critical need for mental health services in the South Bronx, NYC Health + Hospitals/Lincoln is proud to announce its partnership in a new ACGME-accredited Community Psychiatry Residency Program. This innovative initiative, set to launch in July 2026, is sponsored by Urban Health Plan (UHP), a leading network of community health centers, and includes our sister institution, NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst. This program is a direct response to the severe shortage of mental health providers in
our city. By serving as a primary training site for inpatient clinical rotations, Lincoln Hospital will leverage its expertise and its 60-bed psychiatric unit to shape the next generation of psychiatrists. Residents will gain invaluable hands-on experience within our acute care setting before rotating through UHP’s outpatient centers, creating a comprehensive and community- focused training experience. As stated by our CEO, Cristina Contreras, this program represents more than just an investment in future physicians; it is a direct investment in the health and well-being of our community. By creating a
sustainable pipeline of culturally responsive clinicians trained within the very community they will serve, we aim to significantly improve disparities in access to psychiatric care. This powerful partnership between a federally qualified health center and public hospitals like Lincoln and Elmhurst demonstrates a shared commitment to health equity. We are dedicated to training compassionate providers who are deeply connected to the realities of our community, ensuring our patients receive the dignified and comprehensive mental health care they deserve.
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NYC Health & Hospitals/Metropolitan recently celebrated its 150th year of providing care for New Yorkers with an amazing 150 Year Auxiliary Gala. Ms. Contreras was presented with a special recognition that celebrated her impactful leadership and dedicated service to the community during her successful tenure as Metropolitan’s CEO from 2021 to 2024.
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A Vision for Community and Care CRISTINA CONTRERAS DISCUSSES HER VISION ON NY1
Our CEO, Cristina Contreras, was recently featured on NY1, where she discussed her leadership at Lincoln Hospital and her forward-thinking vision for the future of healthcare in the South Bronx. Reflecting on her first year in the role, Ms. Contreras emphasized that her primary focus was staff engagement. She detailed her commitment to ensuring staff feel valued Cristina” and formal town halls. This dedication to connection also extends to the community, where she has actively engaged and heard through open forums like “Coffee with
with local leaders and elected officials to better advocate for Lincoln’s needs and strengthen vital partnerships. Ms. Contreras shared insights from her remarkable 30-year journey with NYC Health + Hospitals, explaining her transition from a frontline social worker to a CEO was driven by a desire to impact policies for a larger number of patients. She celebrated the system’s incredible growth, noting the transformative shift to a patient-centered model where patients are now true partners in their own care.
A key focus of the interview was bringing vital services directly to our community. She highlighted the new Bariatric Surgery Program, a partnership that brings a specialist to the South Bronx to address obesity-related conditions. Looking ahead, she passionately advocated for a new ambulatory care building to meet overwhelming demand and a life-saving Cardiac Cath Lab. She stressed that a Cath Lab would eliminate dangerous delays for patients experiencing heart attacks, bringing immediate, advanced care to a historically underserved community
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LINCOLN NEWS NYC HEALTH + HOSPITALS/LINCOLN CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER: Cristina Contreras
EDITOR: Natasha Burke DESIGN: Devon Smillie PHOTOGRAPHY: Jahaun Atkins, Devon Smillie
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