EHS Doctor Strengthens Community Ties Through St. John’s ICARE Foundation

Far Rockaway, New York, September 17, 2024 — Far Rockaway, New York, September 17, 2024 – Dr. Yating Lee, DO, a family medicine attending physician at Episcopal Health Services (EHS), exemplifies the values of the St. John’s ICARE Foundation, contributing both her time and financial support to better serve the Rockaway community.

The St. John’s ICARE Foundation fosters a culture of philanthropy to secure, manage and distribute gifts in support of the mission and vision of Episcopal Health Services and St. John’s Episcopal Hospital. Dr. Lee, who has embraced the mission wholeheartedly, reflected on the foundation’s impact.

“It wasn’t until the end of last year that I really took notice of the St. John’s ICARE Foundation,” said Dr. Lee. “Initially I thought it was just another charity, but then I realized it was a blueprint on how we improve lives beyond the clinical and hospital setting by addressing the broader needs of the underserved community.”

Dr. Lee’s involvement has made a significant impression on the foundation’s leadership, “I’m overwhelmed by Dr. Lee’s support and encouragement of the foundation,” said Nancy Leghart, Executive Director of the St. John’s ICARE Foundation. “Dr. Lee has been generous in her giving, and truly supportive of our efforts. She exemplifies the ICARE values of innovation, compassion, accountability, respect and empathy.”

In addition to her contributions to the foundation, Dr. Lee is deeply committed to the well-being of her patients. A California native, she warmly refers to Far Rockaway as her home. Dr. Lee began her journey at St. John’s Episcopal Hospital as a resident in 2009, and was delighted to be offered an attending position upon completing her training.

“The time I spent as a resident at St John’s was truly transformative,” said Dr. Lee. “The rigorous training, diverse patient experiences, and the unwavering support from the entire team have equipped me with the confidence and competence to excel in my field. I am proud to carry forward the lessons learned and the commitment to excellence that was instilled in me. Now, as I stand on the other side of that journey, I am eager to give back to the program that has given me so much, whether it’s through mentoring current residents, contributing to the ongoing education efforts, or supporting EHS in any other capacity.”

Dr. Lee is also focused on providing the best possible healthcare to her underserved patients.

“I build trust with my patients by treating them with empathy, compassion and respect,” she said. “You have to be a good listener. If you don’t stand in someone’s shoes, you’ll never understand their situation.”

Dr. Lee’s commitment to patient care and support of the foundation have not gone unnoticed.

“We are incredibly grateful for the positive impact Dr. Lee has on our foundation’s efforts,” said Renee Hastick-Motes, Senior Vice President, Chief External Affairs Officer; President, ICARE Foundation. “Through the giving of time, knowledge, and financial support, our donors are helping us build a lasting legacy that will benefit residents of the Rockaways, Five Towns, and surrounding communities for years to come.”