We're hosting a 7-week healthcare career academy for high school students. Students will hear from guest speakers in a variety of different health professions, participate in hands-on activities, and field trips. Applications for this career academy are closed. Sessions will be held on Mondays and Wednesdays from 3-4:30pm starting 1/29/2024. *We will not meet on 2/19 or 2/21. Join us to learn how you can kick start your career in healthcare!
![]() Southern Tier Health Care System (STHCS) proudly dedicated its board room on Friday, June 23, 2023, to the memory of Howard T. Howlett Jr., a revered figure in the healthcare community and a cherished member of the STHCS family. The dedication ceremony, which took place at the STHCS headquarters, was attended by distinguished guests, including elected officials, and was a testament to the profound impact Howard had on healthcare advocacy and leadership. The ceremony, officiated by John Bartimole, past CEO of STHCS, featured heartfelt remarks from notable individuals who shared their personal and professional experiences with Howard. Assemblyman Joe Giglio, John Eberth representing Senator George Borello's office, Donna Kahm, President & CEO at STHCS, and Howard's son, Howard T. Howlett III, all paid tribute to Howard's remarkable contributions and lasting legacy. Howard T. Howlett Jr. dedicated his life to the automotive and healthcare industries. After a successful career in the automotive sector, Howard channeled his passion into healthcare advocacy. As one of the founding members and chair of the Southern Tier Health Care System, Howard's leadership led the organization through a significant relocation to the old Sears building in Olean and solidified its reputation as a highly respected rural health network in the state. He served as a board member of WCA Hospital for over four decades and played a pivotal role in navigating the turbulent landscape of the hospital industry. He also served as the board chair of Starflight, an emergency medical helicopter service, for more than two decades. Howard's steadfast guidance during times of transition ensured the continuation of critical healthcare services for the community. Furthermore, Howard's commitment to healthcare advocacy extended beyond local borders. He founded the Healthcare Trustees of New York State (HTNYS) in 1981, which later became an integral part of the Healthcare Association of New York State (HANYS). Howard's ceaseless efforts to educate elected leaders in Albany and Washington about healthcare matters earned him widespread admiration and respect. His ability to bridge political divides and articulate complex issues in a relatable manner left a lasting impression on lawmakers and policymakers alike. Donna Kahm, President & CEO at Southern Tier Health Care System, remarked, "Howard Howlett was more than just a board chair; he was a visionary leader who dedicated his life to advancing healthcare. His unwavering support, advocacy, and leadership were instrumental in STHCS's growth and success. Today, we honor Howard's remarkable contributions and the legacy he leaves behind." The dedication of the board room serves as a reminder of Howard's profound influence. It will stand as a space where ideas are shared, decisions are made, and progress is achieved—all in the spirit of Howard's commitment to advancing healthcare. STHCS extends its deepest gratitude to Howard T. Howlett Jr. for his passion for improving the lives of others will forever inspire the organization's ongoing pursuit of excellence. As his legacy lives on, STHCS remains committed to carrying forward his vision and making a positive impact in the healthcare community. Southern Tier Health Care System (STHCS) has received grant funding from the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation to support the Southern Tier EMT-B Academy project. Through this project, STHCS will recruit and train new EMS personnel to help bolster the EMS system in Allegany, Cattaraugus and Chautauqua Counties.
To help overcome barriers for these students, the academy will be provided at no cost to students, including their required uniforms, textbooks, and state exam fees. Students will also receive a stipend during the academy to concentrate on their training program without also having to work full-time. Kathryn Ruscitto, Chair of the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation’s Regional Grants Committee said, “This year the Foundation is proud to support so many essential, innovative, and hard-working groups working on behalf of the health of New Yorkers. These include an array of religiously affiliated organizations that support critical programs through a well-established infrastructure serving the needs of the poor and underserved of all faiths”. Donna Kahm, President and CEO of STHCS stated, “I am thrilled that the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation chose to support our program for a second year.” She also shared that the results from last summer’s Academy were very positive and that “11 individuals, aged 17-27 participated in the 8-week EMT-B Academy. 100% of individuals moved onto full-time employment in healthcare or are attending college following the completion of the program.” Southern Tier Health Care System is proud to be selected as a Mother Cabrini Health Foundation Grantee. We are thrilled by this opportunity to improve the health and wellness of our New York Community. Recruitment for the next installment of the Southern Tier EMT-B Academy will begin in the coming months. If you or someone you know is interested in attending the Academy, please visit https://sthcs.org/emtbacademy to submit your information to demonstrate your interest.
The Health Foundation for Western and Central New York has issued a new report examining the state of community health in Allegany, Cattaraugus, and Chautauqua counties. The report, Community Health Needs and Opportunities in Western New York’s Southern Tier, finds that overarching systemic needs rooted in the social determinants of health exist throughout these counties and are major contributors to health outcomes in the region. Transportation access, health care workforce shortages, under-funded community services, and the impact of poverty are among the factors named as contributing to health disparities in the region. Read the report here.
The report also captures positive attributes in community health in the three counties, including a strong network of community-based organizations working to meet the needs of the people of the Southern Tier, innovative programs and initiatives to address issues such as trauma-informed care practices, and a commitment to collaboration among health care and community service providers that has been strengthened by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Based on research conducted by health care consultants Kate Ebersole and Sharon Mathe, the report features testimonials from some of the region’s community health leaders, capturing their perspective on the state of health care locally and how the pandemic has had an impact on their work and partnerships. Community Health Needs also includes a snapshot overview of the local network of health care services, as well as information and context about the socioeconomic and cultural make-up of the region. “It is clear from this report that Allegany, Cattaraugus and Chautauqua counties have significant systems-level needs in addressing poverty, transportation, housing, and health care access, and are also home to inspiring and admirable partnerships among service providers that are making a real difference for the people they serve,” said Nora OBrien-Suric, PhD, President, Health Foundation for Western and Central New York. “We hope that the information in this report will inspire action and policy to address the critical needs of the people of the Southern Tier, and reinforce the truth that all people deserve to live in healthy, safe, supportive communities.” About the Health Foundation for Western and Central New York: The Health Foundation is an independent private foundation that advocates for continuous improvement in health and health care for the people and communities of western and central New York. Our vision is a healthy central and western New York where racial and socioeconomic equity are prioritized so all people can reach their full potential and achieve equitable health outcomes. For more information, please visit www.hfwcny.org. |
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