At a meeting held on December 17, 2023, the board of trustees for Syringa Hospital in Grangeville discussed initiatives aimed at improving community health and provider visibility. Key topics included promoting wellness exams, enhancing weight loss consultations, and rebuilding trust within the community.
Community relations and marketing coordinator, Hannah Seitz, presented a series of proposals designed to strengthen the hospital’s outreach. She highlighted the extended hours of the walk-in clinic, emphasizing the need for greater awareness among residents. “We want to ensure people know about the availability of our services,” Seitz stated.
Trustee Jim Paradiso raised a pertinent question regarding the presence of providers focused on geriatric care, given the demographic profile of the region. While there is currently no specialist dedicated solely to geriatrics, interim CEO Bruce Shepard affirmed that clinic caregivers are committed to focusing on Medicare wellness exams and collaborating with local employers to ensure that seniors have access to necessary health services. These wellness exams, or Annual Wellness Visits (AWVs), are preventive measures aimed at assessing overall health and creating personalized prevention plans.
Paradiso expressed concern about the community’s perception of wellness exams, stating, “Many of my friends feel this is unnecessary. We need to market the importance of these exams more effectively.” His comments underscored a broader need for education on preventative health measures.
Trustee Terri Tackett pointed out the necessity of informing the community about weight loss medications and their potential side effects. “People often seek advice on social media rather than consulting with their healthcare providers,” she remarked. Seitz noted that Nathan Winder, one of the clinic’s providers, has a strong interest in weight-related issues. “He acts as a critical resource for patients before they consider surgical options,” she said.
Chief Operating Officer Michelle Schaeffer emphasized that all providers at the clinic have access to the same resources for patient treatment. She highlighted Winder’s unique approach, which goes beyond traditional advice of “eat less, exercise more.” Instead, it includes examining how current medications may be affecting weight. “Dr. Smith and PA-C Winder collaborate effectively to ensure patients receive the best care possible,” Schaeffer added.
The discussions at this meeting reflect a proactive approach by Syringa Hospital to enhance its services and engage with the community. By focusing on education and visibility, the board aims to strengthen the trust and health of the people it serves.
