The Rita D. Zielstorff Nursing Informatics Leadership Award
2022 Diane Menasco MSHI, BSN, RN, CPHIMSS
(L-R Rita D. Zielstorff MS, RN, Diane Menasco MSHI, BSN, RN, CPHIMSS and Andrew Phillips PhD, RN, FAMIA) Diane Menasco is the 2023 recipient of the Rita D. Zielstorff Nursing Informatics Leadership Award. Her academic background is impressive and diverse, signified by an Associate of Science in Nursing from Ventura College, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Phoenix, and a Master of Science in Health Informatics from Northeastern University, all completed with honors. This strong foundation has been pivotal in her outstanding career. Since 1999, Ms. Menasco has been an integral part of the Mass General Brigham Salem Hospital, notably excelling as the Director of Nursing Informatics in Patient Care Services. Her commitment to enhancing the MGB Salem Hospital’s nursing vision, coupled with her dedication to representing nursing needs in clinical information systems and medication safety, has been exemplary. Ms. Menasco's ability to foster clinical systems innovation and manage change processes within nursing is a testament to her leadership and deep understanding of the healthcare sector. Notably, Ms. Menasco has demonstrated remarkable expertise in medication safety, particularly through her role as the IT/medication safety expert. Her contributions to improving medication management processes, including the implementation of the Massachusetts Vaccine Registry and barcode med administration, have significantly enhanced patient safety and care quality. Ms. Menasco’s leadership extends to numerous committees at MGB Salem Hospital, such as co-chairing the Drug Diversion Task Force and the High-Risk Med Safety Committee. These roles underscore her multifaceted skills and commitment to healthcare excellence. Her involvement in professional organizations like HIMSS and ANIA, along with her recognition with awards like the MGB Pillars in Excellence Award (2021, 2023) and speaker at national conferences (Siemens Innovations, unSummit ) further highlight her contributions to the field. In addition to her professional achievements, Ms. Menasco is a respected mentor and educator, evident in her previous roles at Scripps Memorial Hospital and Los Robles Regional Medical Center. Her development and implementation of educational programs and patient safety initiatives reflect her dedication to nurturing the next generation of healthcare professionals. In summary, Ms. Menasco's extensive education, vast experience, and demonstrated leadership in nursing informatics and patient care made her an exemplary candidate. Her commitment to excellence, innovation, and patient safety will undoubtedly be a valuable asset to any organization or role and the future of Nursing Informatics. Diane Menasco exemplifies the qualities sought in recipients of the Rita D. Zielstorff Nursing Informatics Leadership Award. |
