The board of trustees at Syringa Hospital convened on December 17, 2023, to discuss strategies aimed at enhancing community health services and building trust within the community. Key topics included the promotion of wellness exams, weight loss consultations, and improving the visibility of healthcare providers.
During the meeting, community relations and marketing coordinator Hannah Seitz presented a variety of initiatives designed to strengthen the clinic’s outreach and improve its reputation. Seitz emphasized the importance of informing the community about new extended hours for the walk-in clinic, stating, “That’s something we want to get out there and let people know.” She also highlighted the need to showcase individual providers and their unique skills.
Trustee Jim Paradiso raised an important question regarding the clinic’s capacity to cater to the geriatric population, which is significant in the area. He suggested that it may be beneficial to have a provider specifically focused on geriatric care. Bruce Shepard, the interim CEO of Ovation Healthcare, responded that although no provider specializes solely in geriatrics, the clinic is committed to addressing the needs of older patients through Medicare wellness exams.
Medicare wellness exams, also known as Annual Wellness Visits (AWVs), serve as preventive services designed to assess a patient’s overall health and create personalized prevention plans. During the meeting, Paradiso stressed the necessity of effectively communicating the benefits of these exams to the community. “Plenty of my friends and I feel this is BS,” he remarked, indicating that more marketing is needed to convey why these exams are vital.
Trustee Terri Tackett highlighted the need for enhanced education around weight loss medications. She pointed out that many individuals are turning to social media for answers rather than consulting their healthcare providers. “I think we need, as a community, more education on the (weight loss) medications people are taking and the whole laundry list of side effects,” Tackett noted.
Seitz mentioned that provider Nathan Winder is particularly knowledgeable about weight-related goals and serves as a critical resource before patients consider surgical options. Michelle Schaeffer, the Chief Operating Officer, confirmed that while all providers have access to the same resources, Winder has a special interest in this area. She added that Winder’s approach goes beyond traditional advice, taking into account the impact of current medications on weight.
Schaffer emphasized the collaborative efforts between Winder and Dr. Smith, stating, “Dr. Smith and PA-C Winder work very well together,” indicating a strong support system for patients on their weight loss journeys.
The discussions at the Syringa Hospital board meeting reflect a proactive approach towards community health needs and a commitment to improving patient education. As the board continues to explore these initiatives, the focus will remain on building a trusted healthcare environment in Grangeville.
