At a meeting on December 17, 2023, the board of trustees for Syringa Hospital in Grangeville convened to discuss several strategies aimed at enhancing community engagement and trust. Among the key topics were wellness exams, weight loss consultations, and the need for improved visibility of healthcare providers within the community.
Hannah Seitz, the hospital’s community relations and marketing coordinator, presented her ideas to strengthen the clinic’s profile and improve awareness of the services offered. She highlighted the extension of hours at the walk-in clinic, noting, “That’s something we want to get out there and let people know.” Seitz emphasized the importance of showcasing the specific skills and passions of each healthcare provider to foster a sense of community trust.
During the meeting, Trustee Jim Paradiso raised a pertinent question regarding the clinic’s focus on geriatric care, suggesting that this could be beneficial given the demographic trends in the area. He inquired whether there were any providers specializing in geriatric care. Interim CEO Bruce Shepard responded that while no provider specializes solely in geriatric care, the clinic’s team would continue to focus on wellness exams, particularly those covered by Medicare.
A Medicare wellness exam, also known as an Annual Wellness Visit (AWV), is designed to evaluate a patient’s overall health and establish a personalized prevention plan. Paradiso pointed out that there is a need for better communication regarding the significance of these exams, saying, “Plenty of my friends and I feel this is BS. We need some marketing on it — why is it good? Why is it important, needed?”
Trustee Terri Tackett also contributed to the discussion by addressing the community’s need for education on weight loss medications. She noted that many individuals seek medical advice through social media rather than consulting their healthcare providers directly. Tackett emphasized the importance of informing the community about the various medications available and their potential side effects.
Seitz highlighted provider Nathan Winder, who has a strong interest in weight management and is regarded as a crucial resource for patients considering surgical options. She described him as “the stop before surgical options,” suggesting that Winder’s approach is more comprehensive than simply advising patients to “eat less, exercise more.”
Chief Operating Officer Michelle Schaeffer reinforced Winder’s approach, explaining that all providers at the clinic have access to the same resources to assist their patients. Schaeffer assured the board that Winder’s methods include a thorough examination of how current medications may affect a patient’s weight. “Dr. Smith and PA-C Winder work very well together,” she noted, highlighting their collaborative efforts to ensure patient success.
The discussion at Syringa Hospital’s board meeting reflects an ongoing commitment to improving healthcare access and education within the community. By focusing on effective communication and highlighting the expertise of individual providers, the hospital aims to rebuild its reputation and strengthen community ties.
