Debra Morton, DNP, MA, BSN has been appointed Cayuga Health’s Chief Nursing Officer. Dr. Morton was selected following a national search and rigorous interview process that included nurses, physicians and administrators across the health system. Morton will be responsible for the strategic leadership and vision for Nursing and Patient Services, and ensuring high-quality, patient-centered care in both inpatient and outpatient settings.
“I am pleased to join Cayuga Health to shape the future of nursing practice,” said Morton. “I was impressed by Cayuga Health nurses’ dedication to providing excellent care in a community setting and am confident that together, we will achieve new levels of nursing innovation and achievement typically only realized in larger more urban settings. I am excited to collaborate with other members of the executive team and healthcare providers to optimize patient care delivery, improve interdisciplinary communication, and enhance patient satisfaction.”
Morton’s first day is Monday, September 30. She reports directly to Dr. Martin Stallone, President & CEO of Cayuga Health.
“Debra’s proven expertise in patient experience will bring a next-level focus on efforts already underway at Cayuga Health,” stated Stallone. “As our organization evolves into an Integrated Delivery Network, the complexity of operations has also advanced. Debra’s experience in clinical operations will be invaluable to the Cayuga Health team as we continue to navigate the challenging healthcare landscape. Her strategic vision and inspirational leadership style will provide direction and support to our Nurses and patient care staff during a critical time of change.”
Morton joins Cayuga Health with over 30-years of acute care experience in hospital operations, strategic planning, operational and financial improvement, staff empowerment, labor relations and quality management. Morton previously held the role of Vice President of Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer at Lifebridge Health Sinai Hospital, a 483 bed teaching hospital and level 2 trauma center (Baltimore MD). Previous experience also includes leadership roles at Kaiser Permanente and Dignity Health in California. Morton trained at Geisinger School of Nursing (Danville, PA), Thomas Jefferson University (Philadelphia, PA) and earned a doctorate of Nursing Practice from the University of San Francisco.
what our patients are saying
“I have been a Hemo dialysis patient for almost Five years. Prior to dialysis and during dialysis I have had several trips to the ER, due to other health issues & was admitted to CMC more than a few times. Each and every time I’ve been there, whether in patient or out, I have been treated with respect, professionalism, and efficiency. I give this hospital 2 thumbs up!! Thank you CMC for taking care of me all these years!!”
“I have had many occasions visiting CMC for myself and family. We have never had a bad experience there at all. Last October I had surgery and the nurses were amazing especially my night nurse. Thank you to all CMC staff for doing what you do every day with a smile.”
“The staff and accommodations at Cayuga Birthplace are amazing!!! This is what it I imagine it would feel like to be a celebrity getting VIP treatment. I wish I could stay longer – even the food options are 5 Star! The amenities are great. Everything is clean and designed beautifully. Not a single complaint, only praises!”
“I have to say the last couple visits that I’ve had here have been wonderful. About a month ago I had an EGD and the staff were amazing! Explained everything in detail and made me feel at ease. I was very nervous and the nurse I had was very comforting. Tonight we had to take my son to the emergency room and they were awesome with him! We got right in. “
