State Sen. Joe Picozzi and Rep. Sean Dougherty visited Temple University Hospital – Jeanes Campus on Feb. 13 to present a check for $625,000 to modernize elevators.
Accepting the check was Matt Shelak, executive director of Temple–Jeanes.
Shelak noted that the presentation took place on a rainy Friday the 13th, but said it was a good day for the hospital.
The hospital administrator said Jeanes benefits from things such as improved technology and upgrades to the emergency department and MRI and CT testing.
At the same time, he said, the modernized elevators will assist in patient and equipment transfer to other units and departments, help the cleaning crews go from floor to floor and make for a better visitor experience.
“I can’t stress enough how important that is,” Shelak said.
Picozzi said he is happy the state is able to help Temple-Jeanes as it approaches its 100th anniversary in 2028.
Like Shelak, Picozzi said money is important for equipment to help staff improve patient outcomes. As for the elevator funding, he said it will add to the infrastructure and the patient experience of a hospital that offers care close to home.
“We’re going to keep fighting for you every single day,” he told staff members who gathered for the presentation.
Dougherty, a graduate of Temple School of Law, said when he tells people his district includes the neighborhood of Fox Chase, they often mention the good reputation of Jeanes. He said helping bring state funds to his district is the best part of the job.
“They say this business has its ups and downs. Today’s an up,” he joked about the elevator funding. ••
