#United States #Tampa #Tampa General #TECO Electric #Burn Center

Tampa General Hospital's Burn Center Rebranded

In a significant development that highlights the enduring collaboration between healthcare and community support, Tampa General Hospital (TGH) has officially renamed its renowned burn center to the TGH Burn Center: A TECO Partnership. This renaming not only showcases the hospital's commitment to advanced burn care but also reflects the valuable partnership with Tampa Electric (TECO), which spans over three decades.

On January 31, a special donor ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to commemorate this vital partnership. Leaders from both TGH and TECO gathered to celebrate the contribution made by Tampa Electric to the TGH Foundation, a gesture that symbolizes their mutual dedication to improving community health.

John Couris, president and CEO of Tampa General, remarked, "This gift to name the TGH Burn Center illustrates Tampa Electric's considerable investment in the community and its well-being." He highlighted how this newfound recognition would inspire patients and affirm the remarkable work done by healthcare professionals.

Archie Collins, CEO of Tampa Electric, shared insights into the impact of the burn center. "TECO is honored to help provide hope and a brighter future to patients. The TGH Burn Center offers life-saving treatments that profoundly change the lives of those affected by severe burns," he stated.

The history between TECO and TGH is rich and impactful, with Tampa Electric supporting initiatives that have energized the hospital and the entire Tampa Medical Research District. Their contributions also extend to employee efforts within the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, helping to further the TGH Foundation's mission. Frann Leppla, executive vice president and chief philanthropy officer, expressed deep gratitude, calling TECO’s generosity a shining example of exceptional community leadership in philanthropy.

The TGH Burn Center stands out as one of just six burn centers in Florida verified by the American Burn Association (ABA) and the American College of Surgeons (ACS). This prestigious verification underscores the center's compliance with rigorous guidelines regarding patient care, facilities, and staffing. Each year, the center treats over 800 burn patients, reflecting its crucial role in managing critical burn cases from emergency admission through rehabilitation.

Dr. Nicholas J. Panetta, chief of Tampa General Hospital Plastic Surgery and chair of the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine’s Department of Plastic Surgery, emphasized the importance of TECO's partnership, stating, "Their involvement will significantly enhance TGH's efforts in the ever-evolving burn care field, assisting patients in achieving better outcomes with the latest treatment advancements."

Tampa Electric's collaboration with the burn center is primarily funded through shareholder contributions, ensuring that customers’ bills remain unaffected. This partnership is part of a broader commitment by Tampa General Hospital to excel in various healthcare domains, as evidenced by its recent accolades within U.S. News & World Report’s rankings and its recognition as a model of excellence by Fortune's 2022 list of Top Hospitals.

As Tampa General continues to set high standards in healthcare delivery, the newly named TGH Burn Center: A TECO Partnership will undoubtedly pave the way for enhanced treatment options, improved patient experiences, and lasting community welfare. Its dedication to holistic health remains a beacon of hope, anchoring its mission to serve everyone, regardless of their financial capacity.

For further insights into their services and initiatives, visit Tampa General Hospital’s Official Website.