NVH Newsletter June 2024
Welcome:
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We hope this platform will allow us to provide updates and insights into the work of NVH and topics impacting the health and well-being of our communities.
Construction Update:
Background:
A large portion of the hospital services are located in the 1952 St. Martin’s Building. It is the brick building directly north of the main entrance, and from the exterior, it is hard to tell it is a separate building. Much of the infrastructure is original from the 50’s and in desperate need for an update. Several years ago, we began the design and planning phases to upgrade the heating and cooling on all three floors. The work directly impacts the kitchen, surgery, outpatient clinics, lab, radiology, scheduling and billing.
This project will ensure we can keep using the space with less risk of the frequent heating and cooling issues we have had in the building. It is always a major investment in allowing us to meet upcoming energy savings requirements as part of the Clean Building Act.
In addition to upgrading the HVAC we are using the opportunity to add additional clinical space in the ER and hospital floor. These rooms were designed to be built-out later but have been used as storage. The additional rooms will allow us to see more patients and reduce crowding.
Wayne Verbeck, President of North Valley Community Health Association, aka the Hospital Foundation, presents Adam Tibbs, NVH BOC President, a check for $100k. The funds raised by the Hospital Foundation will be allocated to the completion of two critical projects within North Valley Hospital: Emergency Department Room 1 and Acute Care 110.
The total project cost is over $7M, with funding coming from several areas:
$100,000 donation from the Hospital Foundation
$1M grant from USDA
$775,000 grant from the Department of Commerce
$5M bond funded from Hospital operations and existing tax revenue
Status:
Last month, we hit an exciting milestone by placing the three HVAC units on the roof. It was a significant undertaking, and we wanted to thank our neighbors again for all of the disruption and inconvenience caused by the crane and road closure.
This week, work began on the first floor of the St. Martins building. This represents the final phase, and the project is scheduled to be wrapped up by the end of October.
Men’s Health Month
June is Men's Health Month, aiming to raise awareness of common health issues and encourage early detection and treatment among men. This observance highlights the importance of regular health check-ups, healthy lifestyle choices, and seeking help when needed. Men's Health Month provides an opportunity to promote overall well-being and educate men on the significance of prioritizing their health. With a focus on preventive care and healthy habits, this month serves as a reminder for men to take charge of their health and make informed decisions for a better quality of life.
The first step is making an appointment with your primary care provider.
Well-Being Survey:
Thriving Together North Central Washington is a CMS and state-funded organization focusing on improving health within Okanogan, Chelan, Grant, and Douglas counties. We have partnered with Thriving Together on several initiatives, including the drug disposal kiosk, the behavioral health program, and vocational training programs.
A few weeks ago, Thriving Together launched a Well-Being Survey (available here) which runs through the end of July. We are working with Thriving Together to promote participation in the survey, and we will also strive to support the subsequent efforts to improve the health of our communities. If you have not participate yet, please make your voice heard!
This data helps guide NVH and all of the organizations that play a role in health to prioritize our efforts and better serve our community.
Congrats NAC Class!
Ten students completed the NAC course lead by Rochelle Allen. Pictured (L-R) Ashton Roberts, Hailey Smither, Rosemary Luna, Daisy Martinez, Jasmine Valdez, Rochelle Allen -NAC instructor, Terika Brasher, Genifer Lariza, Emma Lou Brasher, Eva Houlihan, Emma Arbogast
The most recent cohort of ten nursing assistant students graduated in May. This program is a great way for the participants to kickstart a career in healthcare. Our next class for CNA’s starts next week, but if you or someone you know is interested in a future class stay tuned.