Above and Beyond: One Patient’s Rewarding Experience at the Emergency Department

When a routine biopsy on Baldassare Bagarozzi's leg led to a worrisome infection, his primary care physician directed him to the emergency room at MidHudson Regional Hospital. At first, 73-year-old Bagarozzi opted to manage his pain at home, hoping to avoid a hospital visit.

As his discomfort intensified throughout the day, he finally reached his breaking point at 2 a.m. and rushed to the emergency room. "The young lady at the front desk was so kind, and I could tell she was concerned about me," he recalls, noting her warm demeanor and attentiveness despite the late hour.  

The staff's compassion extended beyond the waiting room. They offered Bagarozzi food and drinks, doing whatever they could to make him comfortable. He was examined by Alexis A. Johnson, MD, an emergency medicine specialist whose thorough exam and reassuring bedside manner further eased Bagarozzi's concerns.

Mr. Bagarozzi at MidHudson Regional Hospital

Bagarozzi was discharged, but his wound failed to heal as expected, prompting his return to the ER the following week for further treatment. He was admitted to the hospital, where the staff was meticulous about monitoring his condition, including managing his blood sugar and ensuring his diabetes medication was administered properly. 

Still, his infection lingered, and after further testing, Bagarozzi learned he would need surgery. 

Bagarozzi would have felt worried, but he says the medical team’s thorough explanation made him confident in their recommendations. He was particularly impressed by the seamless coordination between the ER and surgical teams, noting, "Everyone was so friendly and communicative." 

The procedure was a success, and his pain disappeared. 

Bagarozzi has had exceptionally positive experiences at other WMCHealth hospitals in the past, including at Westchester Medical Center where he underwent a successful lung surgery a few years prior. His recent stay at MidHudson Regional even has him contemplating employment opportunities with the health system, which employs many other senior citizens.

"They truly cared," Bagarozzi emphasizes about MidHudson Regional's staff. "They went above and beyond to make me feel better and ensure I returned home healthy." 

Learn more about MidHudson Regional Hospital’s Emergency Department.