The Strength of our Healthcare System is the Fabric of a Great Community
Posted on Apr 10, 2020 1:49pm PDT
Gunnison Valley Health’s response to the COVID–19 outbreak
is a reflection of a health system that sees no boundaries.
Routed in Planning
It’s researching best practices, understanding where healthcare is
going and imagining what it could be...
- A Pandemic Plan was in place by the end of 2012. It has been updated regularly
as we learned from perceived threats such as SARS, Avian Flu, H1N1 and EBOLA.
- In January notification went to our staff advising of the potential COVID-19
virus along with recommendations for assessment and treatment.
- A COVID-19 plan was in place by January 28, 2020.
Routed with Collaboration
It’s bringing stakeholders together to deliver the most innovative
and comprehensive ideas and, offer the leadership to drive success.
Dr. Jason Hogan, Trauma Director, and Dr. Shay Krier, Emergency Medical
Services Director, both board-certified emergency medicine physicians
joined Jodie Leonard, RN, Infection Control Specialist, and CJ Malcolm,
Chief of EMS, to form the GVH representative team and partnered with Health
and Human Services and other key representatives to create a Gunnison
County unified incident command structure to guide the COVID- 19 community response.
Routed with Talent
It’s hiring individuals that are the best fit by identifying skill
sets that match a high performing culture.
- Over 380 employees with 40 clinical and support departments and combined,
the efforts have exceeded expectations at every level.
- Training and mentoring programs have moved staff beyond their comfort zone,
allowing them to learn and grow, and creates a high performing culture
that is sustainable.
Routed with Results
It’s problem-solving using lean training and evidence-based leadership
and medicine that delivers outstanding results.
- We sourced protective personal equipment (PPE) early in order to have sufficient
supplies to protect our staff.
- Ventilators were doubled, patient care rooms were transitioned to negative
pressure for COVID-19 treatment, and an alternative care site was set
up at Fred Field Center in case of a surge.
- A sophisticated UV Lytbot was purchased to eradicate COVID-19 pathogens
ensuring a safe environment for staff and patients.
Click here if you would like to donate to the COVID-19 Support Fund
“There are moments in your career where you cannot be more proud.
After 40 years in healthcare this is one of those moments for me. Thank
you to a healthcare team that has risen to meet an unprecedented challenge
to serve this community.”
Rob Santilli, CEO, Gunnison Valley Health