 A hospital is more than a place where people go to heal, it is a part of the community that fosters health and represents hope. From providing treatment and comfort to the sick, to welcoming new life into the world, hospitals are central to a healthy and optimistic community. That’s the message organizers are touting with the 2011 National Hospital Week theme “Champions of Care.”
The event theme is the centerpiece of a promotional campaign aimed at uniting healthcare facilities across the country during the May 9–15 celebration. “National Hospital Week, first and foremost, is a celebration of people,” says Human Resources Director Sarah Loman. “We are extremely proud of each member of our staff. Hospital Week is a great opportunity to recognize the important role staff play in extending a sense of trust to our patients and our communities.”
Penobscot Valley Hospital is celebrating National Hospital Week with a variety of events for employees. Staff members are treated to special breakfasts, daily snacks, gifts, free exercise classes, free chair massages and an ice cream social.
“On Wednesday,” adds Loman, “The hospital will be honoring employees that have made a long-term commitment to PVH and our patients. Thirty-one staff members will be presented with a special pin to commemorate their milestone anniversaries ranging from 5 years all the way up to 35 years of service at PVH. We are grateful to have so many dedicated individuals working and caring for our patients at PVH.”
PVH has made many improvements in the last year with the installment of a nine special beds designed to prevent patient falls and reduce worker injuries. The hospital has also purchased new safe patient handling equipment which allows staff to mobilize patients sooner after an injury or illness and may help shorten their hospitalization and reduce rehabilitation requirements toward healing. Also, a number of energy saving initiatives have been completed at the hospital within the last year including replacing all of the windows to help reduce heating costs.
Earlier this year, the hospital won a “Pinnacle Award” for Hospital Provider of Choice at a national conference in New Orleans. This award honored PVH for its dedication to quality service to patients and the improved work life and performance of the healthcare organization.
The hospital is now planning its fourth year of Service Excellence Initiatives led by staff to improve the customer service experience and enhance patient satisfaction. “If you haven’t been to the hospital for a while, you will be very impressed with all of the positive changes brought about by our Service Excellence Initiative,” explains Service Excellence Council Chair and Chief Nursing Officer Karen Mueller.
PVH also supports a grant-funded community health coalition in collaboration with Millinocket Regional Hospital and the River Coalition in Old Town. S.P.R.I.N.T. for Life is part of a statewide system of public health organizations that bring people and resources together to improve the health of Maine residents. Some of the coalition’s recent projects include prescription drug take back events, technical assistance for worksite wellness programs, and childcare provider trainings on a range of health topics. All services are provided to the community free of charge.
The hospital also organizes a new support group for those affected with cancer. The Cancer Support Group meets on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month from 6-7pm. The group is lead by Bill Head, PA-C and is open to anyone looking for support or information about cancer. Call (207) 794-3321 for more information.
Penobscot Valley Hospital is committed to putting patients first and works to improve the health of the community. Please join PVH and thank your healthcare providers during National Hospital Week.
###
|