The board of trustees at Syringa Hospital convened on December 17 to discuss strategies aimed at enhancing community engagement and provider visibility. Key topics included wellness exams, weight loss consultations, and methods to rebuild trust within the community.
During the meeting, community relations and marketing coordinator Hannah Seitz presented several initiatives. One significant proposal is to promote the extended hours of the hospital’s walk-in clinic. “We want to ensure the community is aware that the walk-in clinic now has extended hours,” Seitz emphasized. She also highlighted the importance of showcasing each provider’s unique skills and areas of expertise.
The trustees recognized a potential gap in geriatric care. Trustee Jim Paradiso inquired whether any providers specialized in geriatric medicine, given the demographic makeup of the area. Interim CEO Bruce Shepard responded that while no provider is exclusively focused on geriatrics, the clinic will continue to emphasize Medicare wellness exams. These exams, also known as Annual Wellness Visits (AWV), are essential for assessing overall health and developing tailored prevention plans.
Paradiso voiced concerns about the community’s perception of these wellness exams. “Many of my friends and I feel this is BS,” he stated, stressing the need for better marketing to communicate the importance of these preventive services.
Trustee Terri Tackett raised another concern regarding weight loss consultations. She noted that the community lacks sufficient education on weight loss medications and their side effects. “People often turn to social media instead of consulting their doctors,” she pointed out. In response, Seitz mentioned that provider Nathan Winder has a strong interest in weight management and is well-equipped to guide patients through their weight loss journeys.
Syringa Hospital’s Chief Operating Officer Michelle Schaeffer affirmed that all providers have equal access to resources for treating their patients. She elaborated on Winder’s approach, emphasizing that it goes beyond traditional advice of “eat less, exercise more.” Winder examines how current medications might affect patients’ weight and overall health. She also highlighted the collaborative efforts between Winder and surgeon Dr. Smith, ensuring patients receive the best possible care options.
The discussions during the meeting reflect a broader commitment by Syringa Hospital to enhance community health and trust. By addressing specific health concerns and improving communication, the board aims to foster a more informed public regarding available healthcare services. This strategic focus on community engagement is set to strengthen the hospital’s relationship with its patients and the wider community.
