A Legacy of Passion and Patient-Centered Training

The newly designated Edward D. Virbitsky Environmental Services Training and Innovation Center stands as a testament to a career dedicated to excellence. Virbitsky, who passed away in March at the age of 59, joined Crothall in April 2020 and quickly established the training center as a benchmark for best practices in the industry. His vision transformed the facility into a nationally recognized hub for EVS professionals, attracting leaders and managers from Crothall units across the country eager to replicate his innovative approach.

Approximately 50 attendees, including family members, Crothall executives, and AHN leadership, gathered for the dedication ceremony. The event served not only as a remembrance of Virbitsky’s life but also as a reaffirmation of Crothall’s commitment to upholding the standards he championed.

Inspiring a Culture of Care

“We want to ensure that Ed’s legacy lives on and those who come after him display the same passion and care that Ed had towards his craft,” stated Matthew Waggle, Regional Director of Operations and Virbitsky’s supervisor, during the dedication. Waggle emphasized Virbitsky’s dedication to his team, noting how he consistently went above and beyond to foster a supportive and impactful learning environment.

Larry Stebelsky, Division President, added, “Ed possessed a remarkable talent for engaging with new staff members and inspiring enthusiasm for their roles and future prospects. A truly exceptional leader, he connected with and made a meaningful impact on individuals at all levels within both organizations. With the new name, we honor Ed’s legacy and recognize the significant role he played in transforming the training/innovation center into one of the best in the country.”

Beyond Technical Skills: A Human Approach to Training

Those who knew Virbitsky remember him as a deeply kind and compassionate individual, capable of connecting with people from all walks of life. His patience, active listening skills, and generosity with his time were hallmarks of his character. He also possessed a quick wit and a playful sense of humor, creating a welcoming and engaging atmosphere for trainees.

Virbitsky’s impact extended beyond simply teaching cleaning protocols. He understood the critical role EVS associates play in patient safety and well-being, and he instilled that understanding in every individual he trained. He personally oversaw the development of the training curriculum during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, adapting to the evolving needs of the healthcare environment.

Did You Know?:

A Tangible Impact on Turnover and Performance

Over the past three years, the Allegheny Health Network has seen a greater than 10 percent decrease in turnover among EVS associates – a statistic directly attributed to Virbitsky’s training and mentorship. He trained an estimated 250-300 associates annually across the network’s nine hospitals, equipping them with the skills and confidence to excel in their roles.

Waggle recalls a particularly illustrative example of Virbitsky’s dedication to detail: “He trained people on how to vacuum and how to maintain a vacuum cleaner. Most trainers would simply explain the process and provide a manual. But not Ed. He would take 20 minutes with the group, take apart the vacuum cleaner, rebuild it, and then make each new associate rebuild it. I questioned the time investment, but he insisted that understanding the mechanics of the equipment would prevent breakdowns and ensure consistent performance. He was thinking five steps ahead, and he was right.”

Virbitsky also demonstrated a remarkable ability to overcome communication barriers, effectively training a diverse workforce, many of whom were not fluent in English. He utilized hands-on techniques, visual aids, and a patient approach to ensure everyone understood the proper cleaning procedures.

What role does effective training play in fostering a positive work environment for healthcare support staff? And how can organizations better support the professional development of these essential team members?

Frequently Asked Questions About Edward Virbitsky and the Training Center

• What was Edward Virbitsky’s primary role at Crothall Healthcare?

  Virbitsky served as the Environmental Services Training Director, responsible for developing and implementing training programs for EVS associates at Allegheny Health Network.

• How did Edward Virbitsky impact employee turnover rates?

  Under Virbitsky’s leadership, the Allegheny Health Network experienced a greater than 10 percent decrease in turnover among EVS associates.

• What makes the Edward D. Virbitsky Environmental Services Training and Innovation Center unique?

  The center is recognized nationally for its innovative training approach and its focus on fostering a culture of care and excellence among EVS professionals.

• What was Edward Virbitsky known for beyond his technical expertise?

  Virbitsky was highly regarded for his kindness, patience, and ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds.

• How did Edward Virbitsky address language barriers during training?

  He utilized hands-on demonstrations, visual aids, and a patient approach to ensure all trainees understood the material, regardless of their language proficiency.