NVH Newsletter October 2024

Congressman Dan Newhouse and TFMC Team

Congressman Dan Newhouse Visit:

On 10/16 Congressman Newhouse visited North Valley Hospital and Extended Care. Newhouse met with representatives from the hospital, clinic, and nursing home to ask how he could better represent our rural interests in Washington, DC. The conversation focused on workforce development, reimbursement rates, telehealth, and infrastructure investment.

Thank you, Congressman Newhouse, for your continued interest and advocacy for rural healthcare.

CT Installation:

This month, we are installing a new CT, drastically improving image quality as we upgrade to a 64-slice-capable machine. During the de-installation and installation, the Radiology team will use a mobile unit to ensure we maintain access to this critical diagnostic tool during the project.

The GE Technician is hard at work.

IV Saline Shortage:

As you may have heard in the news, Hurricane Helene flooded the Baxter manufacturing plant, which produces a large portion of the US’s IV saline solution. It will take time to bring the plant back to full production, and like every other hospital, our supplies are running low. We are getting a small amount of fluids from our distributor, but until our supply returns to normal levels, we are conserving as much fluid as possible. Most patients won’t notice any impact, but we have paused elective procedures and are working to be judicious in our saline use.

Medicare Open Enrollment:

Medicare Open Enrollment started on 10/15, and for seniors, the decision to enroll in Traditional Medicare or Medicare Advantage can have implications for costs and access to care. As you make this decision, we would encourage you to learn the pros and cons of each type of plan and be mindful of any sales pitch that sounds too good to be true. The Office of the Insurance Commissioners provides a free, impartial service called SHIBAs (Statewide Health Insurance Benefit Advisors). These volunteers can help you assess your coverage needs and eligibility and help you enroll. Call 1-888-452-0731 to make an appointment with a SHIBA.

In memory of Shane Pyper:

Earlier this month our Radiology Manager Shane Pyper, passed away in a car accident. Shane’s leadership, dedication, and kindness made a lasting impact on both the Radiology Department and our entire hospital community. This is a significant loss for all of us and we join his family in grieving and remembrance.