health & wellness

County Legislature commends Health Department on National Accreditation

Photo by Tom Rivers: The Orleans County Legislature celebrated the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments for earning a national accreditation. County Legislator Don Allport, second from right, holds the plaque showing the accreditation. He is joined at Tuesday’s Legislature meeting by, from left: Carie Doty, senior account clerk; Kristine Voos, epidemiology coordinator for the two counties; and Paul Pettit, public health director.

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 25 April 2025 at 9:06 am

ALBION – The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments have joined an exclusive group for earning national accreditation.

The local health departments, GO Health, are among 17 of the 58 in the state with national accreditation. The local department also is now among 400 in the country out of 3,000 with the distinction.

The Orleans County Legislature this week commended public health director Paul Pettit and the staff for pushing for the accreditation, a process that started in 2019. He highlighted the efforts of Carie Doty and Kristine Voos for serving as co-coordinators for the accreditation process.

Accreditation through the Public Health Accreditation Board is awarded to health departments that meet or exceed a comprehensive set of quality standards and measures, Pettit said. As accredited health departments, GO Health will continue to prioritize evidence-based practices, innovative solutions, and strong partnerships to ensure a healthier future for the residents of Genesee and Orleans counties, he said.

“We’ve been able to provide and efficient and quality service to the residents of Genesee and Orleans counties,” Pettit said.

GO Health earned the accreditation on Feb. 27. The two counties worked together as a health department for 13 years now, with a joint board of health and other shared staff.

The two counties combined employ about 50 employees in public health. Each county has its own health department, but they share seven department heads, including Paul Pettit as the public health director.

One county can also pull from another county if there is a staffing need, such as a vaccination clinic. Working as integrated departments has allowed the two departments to better balance surges during the Covid pandemic with Covid testing, vaccinations and providing communications in a cohesive manner, county officials said.

The Genesee and Orleans Health Departments also have received joint county grants for public health initiatives in the two counties. The partnership has allowed the two counties to fill workforce gaps, drive efficiencies and look for innovative ways to advance the two-county collaboration, according to county officials.

Many Medina Memorial employees have long-time family connections to hospital

By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 16 April 2025 at 2:06 pm

Scott Robinson proud of great-great-grandfather’s role in helping start hospital a century ago

Photo by Ginny Kropf: Scott Robinson, director of Marketing, Communication and Outreach at Medina Memorial Hospital, poses next to the poster of his great-great-grandfather and hospital founder George Bowen in the hospital lobby. Robinson is one of many employees throughout the hospital’s 100 years who have had ancestors who worked there.

MEDINA – Through its 100 years in existence, Medina Memorial Hospital has had a history of employees follow in their relative’s footsteps and come to work there.

Most appropriately, this relationship began with the hospital’s founder, George Bowen, and continues today with his great-great-grandson Scott Robinson, who is director of Marketing, Communication and Outreach at Medina Memorial Hospital.

Robinson said he should have always known about his “Grandpa Bowen’s” impact on the community, but he didn’t.

“Grandpa Bowen was often referenced, and I knew of a connection to the hospital, but not its magnitude,” Robinson said. “My first memory of Medina Memorial Hospital was actually when my grandmother Joanna Zimmerman (George Bowen’s granddaughter) retired from there in 1989.

“I’ll always remember that hot sunny August afternoon and my grandfather having to walk in to get her, because she kept offering to help with things instead of starting her retirement,” Robinson said. “To me, Medina Memorial Hospital was part of our family because my grandmother worked there and my grandfather, Joanna’s husband John “Jack” Zimmerman, previously served as its chairman.”

In 2016, family cousin Roland Howell asked Robinson’s grandmother and mother for a piece on George Bowen for an Orleans Community Health Foundation newsletter.

“I believe it was my mother telling me about the interview and our cousin Roland that George’s relationship to the hospital came to light,” Robinson said. “My grandmother worked at the hospital, having started in 1974 working nights on the patient care floor, then moving to the OR in 1976. I grew up with such pride knowing about her grandfather. I imagine this is the same pride that I developed knowing about my grandmother. It meant a lot to me that before passing away in February 2024, she resided in North Wing. As many know, the team in our skilled nursing home is incredible. I’ll always be grateful to them.”

Robinson continued to say his grandparents were always very active in the community.

“If anything, I grew up knowing about their involvement in things and that motivated me to do the same,” he said. “Certainly, when we moved home to Medina in 2016, it’s one of the reasons I had such a desire to get involved. Alix (Kozody) Gilman and I moved home and purchased her childhood home where we would get married the following year.”

Robinson and Gilman had moved to the Northern Virginia/Washington, DC area after college, where he worked in politics and then public affairs.

“We moved back home, in part, to buy her childhood farm and be involved in the community,” Robinson said. “My grandparents were always very active in the community. If anything, I grew up knowing about their involvement in things and that motivated me to do the same.”

Robinson said Gilman was one of the brains behind the idea of turning the Shirt Factory into a cocktail bar and was certainly one of the individuals who pushed him to get more involved with other activities.

“Alix always says, ‘If you think you can make a difference, you should do it,’” Robinson said. “Alix also sits on several boards and while we try not to spread ourselves thin, we both support what the other one is doing. I say this in part as a rallying cry to others to volunteer and get involved. I still remember in 2021 when I told her one afternoon that if the marketing job at Orleans Community Health ever opened up, that I would want to go for it. I remember, because from the time I said it upstairs and walked down to the living room, I had received a text message alerting me to the opening.”

Robinson said his upbringing instilled in him the importance of getting involved, volunteering and making a difference whenever possible.

“George Bowen was a strong figure in politics, a successful businessman and active in various community organizations – he truly cared about improving the area,” Robinson said. “Once Alix and I moved back, we found ways to get involved in the community, through business and other causes. Recently, I learned that George Bowen served on the school board, a role I currently hold. As I spend more time with Orleans Community Health and walk the halls of Medina Memorial Hospital, I find myself reflecting more on his impact on the very community I cherish.

“Does knowing my great-great grandfather and grandmother had a hand in the hospital make it more important to me?” Robinson asked. “Absolutely, it does – with a little added pressure too. Especially when it comes to our area, I think a lot about making sure I’m doing right by those who came before me.”

Robinson continued to say, “George Bowen believed our community needed health care services close to home. He knew firsthand the difficulty with traveling outside the area to receive quality care. That mindset is something the team throughout Orleans Community Health feels today. Services are continuing to expand to benefit the community. Over the last couple of months, we’ve announced plans for the future Medina Healthcare Center, located within Medina Memorial Hospital. The goal of expanding needed services plays right to the original goal of my great-great grandfather, and frankly it’s exciting.”

Robinson added there are many team and family stories to share, former team members to spotlight, organizations (like the TWIGs) to remember, and many more who deserve credit for their dedication to our community hospital – many of which will be highlighted in future articles on Orleans Hub throughout Medina Memorial Hospital’s centennial year.

“I truly believe the future Medina Healthcare Center could be the most impactful thing that happens to Medina Memorial Hospital in decades if not the last 100 years,” he said. “All I can say to the community is that I hope you’ll join us and help make it a reality. This is our turn and our time. The team through Orleans Community Health is devoted to providing the best care possible to the community. I’m proud to be part of a team with such incredible individuals, many of whom are also second or third generation members of the hospital family.”

Medina Memorial sees growth with subacute rehab

By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 13 April 2025 at 6:55 pm

Program offers physical, occupational and speech therapies

Photo by Ginny Kropf: Gary Wakefield of Lyndonville is surrounded by personnel in Medina Memorial Hospital, where he is a patient in the sub-acute rehab wing. From left are Josh Hotz, physical therapy assistant; Amanda Luckman, admissions coordinator; Randi Ingersoll, director of care management; Wakefield; and Mackenna Fagan, certified occupational therapy assistant.

MEDINA – Not only is Medina Memorial Hospital celebrating its 100th anniversary during 2025, but it is also basking in the successful growth of its subacute rehab program.

According to Scott Robinson, director of Marketing, Communication and Outreach at Orleans Community Health, during 2024, Medina Memorial Hospital’s transitional care unit/subacute rehab doubled the number of patients served. In addition, the hospital has developed a very successful partnership with Orchard Manor which is providing dialysis patients with transportation, allowing them to get care close to home.

Amanda Luckman, admissions coordinator, said they had been able to double admissions and maintain that high census throughout the past two years. She explained a subacute rehab is able to offer three different therapies – physical therapy, occupational therapy (for daily living) and speech therapy.

“Our goal for subacute therapy is to get the patient back to their physical baseline,” said Randi Ingersoll, director of care management. “It is important for the community to know when they have an injury or illness and can’t do the things they did before, they can come here for subacute rehab.”

Luckman added the hospital now accepts most insurance plans. If a patient needs a longer stay than initially approved, they can work around that. She also explained a newly developed relationship with Orchard Manor means if a patient needs a long-term stay, the hospital will send them there.

Gary Wakefield of Lyndonville was recently admitted to Medina Hospital for rehab and praised the care he was getting.

“It is really great that I can get the rehab I need close to home,” Wakefield said. “The crew here are wonderful. I’d recommend this to anyone.”

Another important advance in care for the hospital and their relationship with Orchard Manor is offering medical transportation, which enables the hospital to transport Orchard Manor patients to Lake Plains dialysis.

“We have been able to continue enhancing our relationship with Orchard Manor by being able to send them more patients who are already on dialysis at our Lake Plains Center,” Ingersoll said. “It has made the discharge planning process smoother, as patients now do not have to worry about how they will get their treatments. It has been a relief to all of us involved in the patient’s care, as well as their families.”

Robinson said Orleans Community Health has two handicap accessible vans in service. Since last September one has been dedicated to dialysis patients.

Luckman said the hospital has been working closely with Rochester Regional Health to welcome even more dialysis patients.

“From an admissions standpoint, having a referral requiring dialysis can be more rigorous because of the issue of transportation,” she said. “Through our partnership with Lake Plains Dialysis, we are able to help more community members receive exceptional therapy and dialysis. We have even had cases from our Batavia dialysis site who were able to come to Medina while having rehab. It is comforting to know we are able to provide our own reliable transportation to and from dialysis.”

Ingersoll added it is important for people to know they can choose where they want to go for rehab.

“We have pre-registry, so if a patient knows they are having surgery and going to need rehab, they can call me and let me know they are going to need a bed,” Luckman said. “I like to tell people there are benefits to coming here for rehab. We have private rooms, intense but kind therapists and, being in a hospital setting, there is a doctor available 24/7. Another benefit is if a patient needs an IV or antibiotic, we can administer that.”

The staff is very proud of their growth during the past several years. When Ingersoll started working at the hospital in 2021, she said the average daily census in rehab was six. It has been 16 for the past two years. For the year, 122 patients were served, and that number for the past two years has doubled to 244.

“We are looking to grow even more,” Ingersoll said.

The rehab unit has the capacity to hold 22 patients.

The hospital has also developed a relationship with Hospice, which has temporarily closed or paused the Martin-Linsin residence in Albion.

“Since Hospice closed the Martin-Linsin residence, we have a contract with them and have designated two rooms for hospice patients,” Luckman said.

She said most insurance companies will cover their stay.

GOW CARES Alliance focusing on community wellness, access to services

Photos by Mike Pettinella/UConnectCare publicist: Public Health Director Paul Pettit, addresses the audience, as Orleans County Mental Health Director Danielle Figura looks on. Pettit and Figura serves as the GOW CARES Alliance steering committee co-chairs.

Posted 2 April 2025 at 11:47 am

By Mike Pettinella, UConnectCare publicist

BATAVIA – The first quarterly meeting of the GOW CARES Alliance, formerly known as the GOW Opioid Task Force, on Tuesday afternoon illustrated the value of community partnerships in improving people’s health and well-being.

About 90 people, representing several human services’ agencies in Genesee, Orleans and Wyoming counties, attended the two-hour event hosted by Grace Baptist Church in Batavia. It was the first large public gathering of the coalition since the COVID pandemic hit in early 2020.

Sue Gagne, left, coordinator of the GOW CARES Alliance, with members of her team – Melissa Vinyard, Sherri Bensley and Cheryl Netter – at Tuesday’s quarterly meeting at Grace Baptist Church in Batavia.

Paul Pettit, public health director of Genesee & Orleans County Health Departments and co-chair of the alliance’s steering committee, emphasized the significance of the name change – noting that the focus has broaden from just opioid overdose deaths to include strategies to address all types of substance use, mental health issues, trauma and suicide.

“What were trying to do now with the GOW Cares Alliance is trying bring these issues together and trying to attack them as a collective,” Pettit said. “The dashboard (on the GO Health website) has links and resources for people who use drugs or are in crisis or have a family member that’s in crisis that helps lead them to services and access to care.”

Pettit said the alliance has identified three key strategies to reduce the substantial rates of overdose and suicide in the three rural counties:

• Community Centered Approach. Recognize and respond to the overall health challenges and strengths of rural communities by gauging the pulse of current trends and involving people with lived experience.

• Addressing Barriers to Access. Promoting community awareness and understanding through navigating the system, health literacy and connection to community resources; addressing stigma and equitable access, and offering safer choices and harm reduction options.

• Promotion of Holistic Care. Addressing physical, mental, social and spiritual needs.

The eight “Recovery Fashion Show” participants acknowledge applause at the conclusion of the meeting.

The directors of Community Services in the three counties spoke about the role of mental health agencies in a grassroots organization such as the GOW CARES (Community Action for Recovery Education & Support) Alliance.

“It’s a team effort,” said Lynda Battaglia (Genesee County), noting that more than half of Americans are diagnosed with some type of anxiety disorder and that someone dies by suicide every 11 minutes.

She said it is incumbent upon local mental health and community services departments to “fill the gap” in services to their residents. She said that the goal is to identify the needs of the community and find out what services are needed.

Battaglia urged those in the audience to reach out to governmental leaders.

“We need to hear your voice. You are the boots on the ground,” she said. “If you have an idea for a service, I encourage you to email us.”

Meeting attendees express their appreciation for the fashion show entrants.

Danielle Figura (Orleans County), who also serves as the steering committee co-chair, spoke about the partnership between Genesee and Orleans counties in the mental health field.

She mentioned some of the Orleans’ initiatives such as a helpline (that reaches all three counties), fatality review board, leave behind kits for first responders and a Critical Incident Stress Management team to help those involved in traumatic events.

Kelly Dryja (Wyoming County) shared three initiatives in her county – CredibleMind, a free and confidential online platform that gathers expert-rated and vetted videos, podcasts, apps and other resources; a harm reduction vending machine in the Village of Warsaw, and a “community conversation” on combatting stigma in conjunction with the University of Rochester.

Co-chairs of the alliance’s four workgroups – Community Education, Community Trends, Resource Hub and Safer Choices – spoke briefly about their objectives, which, respectively, include meeting planning and publicity, data analysis in cooperation with law enforcement, updating a resource guide, social media platforms and website, and providing resources and products that act as a “go-between” prevention and total abstinence.

The meeting concluded with a spirited “Recovery Fashion Show,” with Melissa Vinyard, director of The Recovery Station on Clinton Street Road as the M.C. Participants wore items of clothing from the City Church Clothing Collection, which supplies clothes for all ages, plus other household items to those in need at no charge.

Four women and four men, representing 77 years of recovery, took part in the fashion show as the audience cheered in appreciation of their successful journeys.

“We at The Recovery Station do recovery loudly,” Vinyard said, “so people don’t have to die quietly, alone.”

Lunch was provided by Spectrum Human Services. Other agencies who set up tables were Independent Living of the Genesee Region, Fidelis Care, Genesee County Office for the Aging, Veterans Services and Veterans Crisis Line, Horizon, GO Health, Best Self Behavioral Health and UConnectCare.

SCOPE of Orleans County offering ‘Stop the Bleed’ training on April 12

Posted 28 March 2025 at 12:27 pm

Press Release, Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments

ALBION – In partnership with the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) and Orleans County Office of Emergency Management, SCOPE of Orleans County is excited to offer a free Stop the Bleed course on Saturday, April 12, from 10 a.m. to noon at the Hoag Library, 134 South Main St., Albion.

Uncontrolled bleeding is the number one cause of preventable death after an injury. With just three quick actions, you can be trained and empowered to save a life.

Registration is required as only 20 spots are available due to equipment limitations. To secure your spot, email scopeorleans@outlook.com with your name, number of seats requested, and phone number. A confirmation email will be sent for all approved registrations.

There is no minimum age requirement, though we encourage parents/guardians to be aware that the course includes graphic images and content. Instructors have successfully taught children of all ages.

The partnership with GO Health and Orleans County Office of Emergency Management makes this training possible, supplying both instructors and equipment. This is our first time offering this training. If demand exceeds available seats, we will schedule additional sessions.

GO Health earns national certification through the Public Health Accreditation Board

Posted 24 March 2025 at 6:19 pm

Press Release, Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments

GO Health is pleased to announce that it has been awarded national accreditation through the Public Health Accreditation Board (PHAB).

Established in 2007, PHAB is the nonprofit organization that administers the national accreditation program, which aims to advance and transform public health practice by championing performance improvement, strong infrastructure, and innovation.

“We are honored to receive recognition from PHAB for achieving national standards that enhance effectiveness and promote continuous improvement,” said Paul Pettit, Public Health Director for GO Health. “This accreditation is our commitment to residents, partners, stakeholders, the legislature, and Board of Health that we will uphold the highest standards of services to keep our community safe and healthy.”

PHAB accreditation is awarded to health departments that meet or exceed a comprehensive set of quality standards and measures. This achievement signifies that GO Health operates with efficiency, accountability, and a dedication to continuous improvement.

“Earning accreditation is a testament to the dedication and hard work of GO Health in delivering robust high-quality public health services,” said Rochelle Stein, chairwoman of the Genesee County Legislature. “This achievement reflects a strong commitment to the well-being of our residents. On behalf of the Genesee County Legislature, I am proud to recognize the team’s dedication and well-earned honor. I commend their steadfast commitment to the health and well-being of our community.”

“GO Health is so integral to our community, providing vast services that our residents depend on, from early intervention to lead poisoning, to rabies clinics, and much, much more,” said Lynne Johnson, chairwoman of the Orleans County Legislature. “Their accreditation again shows the high quality of their work and is a great example of how intermunicipal cooperation between Orleans and Genesee counties created a first-class public health operation to meet the public’s needs.”

Accreditation is a mark of distinction that strengthens public health departments, enhances performance, and builds trust with the communities they serve. As accredited health departments, GO Health will continue to prioritize evidence-based practices, innovative solutions, and strong partnerships to ensure a healthier future for the residents of Genesee and Orleans counties.

“The resilient GO Health staff, partners, and Board of Health played a vital role in making this a reality,” said Paul Grout, President of the Board of Health. “I want to especially thank Kristine Voos and Carie Doty, for taking on a leadership role in this process. Additionally, I extend my gratitude to Paul Pettit, the Accreditation Team and the entire staff for their hard work and dedication.”

For more information about GO Health programs and services, visit GOHealthNY.org.

Wellness Fair at Medina Memorial on April 5 offers free preventive screenings

By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 24 March 2025 at 4:40 pm

MEDINA – The 2025 Spring Wellness Fair at Medina Memorial Hospital is an excellent opportunity for the community to prioritize their health and well-being, according to Scott Robinson, director of Marketing at Orleans Community Health.

“I believe we have a lot working in our favor this time around,” Robinson said. “First and foremost, a sponsorship from the Greater Rochester Health Foundation is allowing us to offer free preventative screenings to community members. The addition of the clinics has also drawn a lot of attention.”

Robinson continued to say there is a significant shortage of pediatric care in the area, and for six hours during the fair, families will have the opportunity to meet Leah Brenner, recently hired certified pediatric nurse practitioner, and ask her anything. She will also distribute free bicycle helmets while supplies last.

He added they are also fortunate to have Jill Klotzbach, with whom the community is familiar from her years with Dr. Boulos. She will be running a hearing clinic during the event, providing hearing evaluations and education on hearing health. The clinic will be open throughout the event.

“These two clinics are fantastic additions to Lumps & Bumps, which surgeon Dr. Devon Huff ran in the surgery clinic last year,” Robinson said. “When you combine all of this with the excitement surrounding the 100th anniversary of Medina Memorial Hospital, we’re looking at a truly exciting Wellness Fair ahead.”

The Spring Wellness Fair will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 5. As a reminder, Lumps & Bumps from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. will feature Dr. Huff offering consultations for individuals with concerns about lumps, bumps or growths on their body. The clinic will provide a thorough examination and guidance on the next steps.

All clinics are free of charge and no registration is required. Registration is still required for preventative screenings in radiology and the laboratory. Click here for information on registration.

Health Dept. offering finger-prick lead testing at some immunization clinics

Posted 20 March 2025 at 8:26 am

Press Release, Genesee & Orleans County Health Departments

Did you know that the only way to know if a child has been poisoned is to get them tested? There are often no clear signs or symptoms of lead poisoning. This is why testing children for lead is so important.

Lead is a metal that is harmful to our bodies and can cause serious health issues. “Children under 6 are most at risk for lead poisoning because their bodies are rapidly developing,” stated Gabrielle Lanich, Lead Program Coordinator of Genesee and Orleans County. “The health effects of lead poisoning are permanent and can affect a child into adulthood.”

Childhood lead poisoning can harm the brain and nervous system leading to learning difficulties, lower IQ, organ damage, and at very high levels can be fatal.

The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) will be offering free finger-prick lead testing at the following immunization clinics this year.

Orleans County, 14016 Route 31 West, Suite 101, Albion, NY 14411

Tuesday, April 15
Tuesday, June 17

Genesee County Health Department at 3837 West Main Street Rd., Batavia, NY 14020

Wednesday, June 11
Wednesday, July 9

All clinics are between the hours of 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Testing is available for children ages 1-6. Children must be accompanied by parent or legal guardian. Please make an appointment by calling your local health department:

Orleans County: (585) 589-3278
Genesee County: (585) 344-2580 ext. 5555

For more information about GO Health Programs and services, visit GOHealthNY.org.

Lung cancer mobile screening unit will be n Albion from March 25-27

Posted 19 March 2025 at 11:10 am

Press Release, Genesee & Orleans County Health Departments

ALBION – Are you 50 years or older and have a history of smoking for 20+ years? Don’t miss this opportunity for a life-saving lung cancer screening close to home.

Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center is bringing their Early Detection Driven to You (EDDY) mobile screening unit to Orleans County. Screenings will take place on March 25, 26 and 27 at Albion Probation Department (456 West Avenue, Albion, NY 14411).

To find out if you are eligible, visit Roswellpark.org/Eddy or call 1-800-ROSWELL (767-9355).

If you can’t attend but are interested in lung cancer screening, contact Medina Memorial Hospital at (585) 798-8054 for more information on their services.

650 students from GLOW learn about careers in local healthcare

Photos courtesy of GLOW With Your Hands: Tiffany Petry, a Medina firefighter, assisted students in learning CPR.

Posted 18 March 2025 at 8:49 am

Press Release, GLOW With Your Hands

BATAVIA – More than 650 students from 31 school districts in Genesee, Livingston, Orleans, and Wyoming (GLOW) counties experienced hands-on healthcare career exploration on Monday.

The annual GLOW With Your Hands: Healthcare event returned for a third year at Genesee Community College, supported by business and educational groups and sponsors led by Triple Platinum Sponsor ESL Federal Credit Union and volunteers from numerous local organizations and businesses.

Willow Hoover, a sophomore at Alexander High School, said the experience attending GLOW With Your Hands: Healthcare ignited a passion for a career in healthcare as a sonographer.

“This event gives you an opportunity to learn about careers outside of a classroom, even though I would like to pursue a career as a sonographer,” Hoover said. “I have learned about so many new careers and skills that I did not know about until I was able to interact with the companies here.”

Since 2023, GLOW With Your Hands: Healthcare has connected students to dozens of career paths and employers, municipal agencies, non-profits, and educational institutions. The healthcare event and GLOW With Your Hands: Manufacturing with the goal of exciting, educating, and empowering youth to seek success in careers.

“GLOW With Your Hands: Manufacturing and Healthcare have connected over 6,000 local students to local careers, transforming their interests into great career opportunities in the GLOW region,” said Angela Grouse, GLOW With Your Hands co-chair. “Supporting organizations and sponsors are addressing the healthcare needs of our local communities, and students attending this event want to be a part of the solution, educating themselves in the desired fields they hope to enter and ultimately serve.”

Many local healthcare organizations met with students during the event at Genesee Community College.

In addition to hands-on demonstrations, every student participated in a pair of self-selected workshops with a variety of healthcare careers led by medical, emergency response, and training professionals.

Sessions covered careers in EMS, pharmacy, healthcare administration, physical therapy, healthy living, physicians/residents, holistic medicine, radiology/sonography/ultrasound, mental health and social work, research science, nursing, respiratory therapy, occupational therapy, speech pathology, physician’s assistant/nurse practitioner, surgery, and vet technician.

“Our goal is to help students turn aspirations into full-time rewarding careers available in their backyards,” said Karyn Winters, GLOW With Your Hands co-chair. “Our participants are the reason why vendors and local organizations continue to support GLOW With Your Hands. It is encouraging to hear the questions asked, see the hands-on demonstrations and interactions and the resulting learning that sparks interest in careers for the next generation of the regional workforce.”

Zachary Baron, an Albion High School senior, attended a respiratory therapy workshop where he and his classmates learned about life-saving measures and proactive steps taken in respiratory emergencies. This workshop reinforced the impact these careers can have on others in the local community.

“Coming to this event can help you understand the different services that make up the healthcare sector,” Baron said. “I enjoyed experiencing the many careers that assist and help others in need, now I know the different opportunities I have available after graduation.”

Representatives from hospitals and health systems and professionals in nursing, mental health, social services, and emergency responders interacted with students to discuss their careers and pathways into their respective fields. Along with immediate career opportunities available after graduating high school, attendees will also be able to explore educational pathways in the healthcare sector through BOCES and degrees available at local colleges and universities.

“GLOW With Your Hands: Healthcare provides students a unique opportunity to interact with and acquire a deeper understanding of the variety of careers our organization and the GLOW region has to offer,” said Justin Bayliss, Wyoming County Community Health System, skilled nursing administrator. “Retaining our brightest minds within our region results in family-sustaining careers that uplift our local communities.”

For more information about GLOW With Your Hands, please visit www.glowwithyourhands.com/healthcare.

GOW CARES Alliance, formerly the Opioid Task Force, to meet on April 1

Posted 10 March 2025 at 2:11 pm

Coalition led by a new coordinator, Sue Gagne

Press Release

BATAVIA – The tri-county coalition dedicated to community health and well-being is back in the public eye – with a new name and a new coordinator.

Formerly the GOW Opioid Task Force, the GOW CARES Alliance has scheduled its first quarterly meeting of the year for 12:30 p.m. April 1 at Grace Baptist Church, 238 Vine St., Batavia.

The session is open to the public at no charge. Lunch will be provided.

Sue Gagne, who was honored in 2024 by state Sen. George Borrello as a New York State “Woman of Distinction” for the 57th District, has assumed the role of coordinator of the organization. Gagne, a registered nurse, has been active in the mental health and suicide prevention fields for more than two decades.

“Over the past several months, we have been working on the transition from the opioid task force into a more comprehensive group, broadening our focus to not only substance use but mental health, trauma and suicide prevention in Genesee, Orleans and Wyoming counties and the surround area,” Gagne said.

She said the GOW CARES Alliance is dedicated to improving the quality of life in rural communities through broad-based, inclusive partnerships that support overall wellness.

GOW CARES Alliance members are from various sectors of the community, including public health, mental health, human services, local government, substance use disorder treatment and recovery agencies, law enforcement, EMS, faith-based groups, health systems and medical practitioners, education, businesses, concerned individuals, families, and individuals in recovery.

Gagne said representative from human services’ agencies are invited to set up resource tables at the April 1st meeting. This can be done by sending an email to Sherri Bensley, the group’s education workgroup co-chair, at sherri.bensley@geneseeny.gov by March 28th.

“All are welcome to support the effort to make our community a healthier place to live,” Gagne added.

Click here for more information to register, also by that date.

OCH sets April 5 for spring wellness fair at Medina Memorial

By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 8 March 2025 at 9:36 pm

MEDINA – Orleans Community Health has announced the date for its annual spring wellness fair.

“The 2025 Spring Wellness Fair at Medina Memorial Hospital is an excellent opportunity for the community to prioritize their health and well-being,” said Scott Robinson, director of marketing.

The free event will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on April 5. Attendees can access a variety of health screenings and services at no cost, including three informative clinics – Lumps and Bumps, hearing tests at the Eye, Nose and Throat Clinic, and Pediatrics.

In addition to these clinics, there will be several crucial health screenings available, such as ultrasounds for the aorta (to detect aneurysms), carotid arteries screenings (to check for potential stroke risks due to occlusions), ankle-brachial index (ABI) which helps to identify peripheral vascular disease and Echo screenings which provide valuable insight into heart health.

Laboratory testings include Hemoglobin A1c (for diabetes management), Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA), Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) and cholesterol screenings. The cholesterol screenings are new this year, Robinson said.

Thanks to a sponsorship by the Greater Rochester Health Foundation, the event is entirely free. This means there will not be a $10 fee for tests, and the pediatric clinic will be distributing bicycle helmets as part of child safety efforts.

This event is designed to give the community easy access to important health assessments and resources. Whether one is due for a routine check-up or seeking specific tests, the Spring Wellness Fair is a great way to take charge of your health this season, Robinson said.

They will also be offering spots for community groups to join in as well.

“We’re holding this event on a Saturday in hopes that will accommodate those who have not been able to attend during a week night,” Robinson added.

Clinics are all walk-ins and no appointment is needed, however, patients still need to register for radiology and laboratory procedures by logging on to https://app.10to8.com/book/ujlltdlinupxwqtekv/.

Hospital dares you to match nurses and walk 105 miles in May

By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 8 March 2025 at 8:43 pm

MEDINA – This year, for the first time, Orleans Community Health will launch a virtual, on-you-honor fundraising challenge that highlights the dedication and physical demands of nursing.

“Walk a Month in a Nurse’s Shoes” will coincide with National Nurses Week and Hospital Week throughout May. Participants will commit to walking 105 miles – the average distance a nurse walks in a month during their shifts.

Supporters can register, track their progress and rally donations from friends and family to celebrate and support the nursing staff, said Scott Robinson, director of Marketing at Orleans Community Health.

“Join us in honoring nurses, while raising vital funds for healthcare in our community,” he said.

Registration for the challenge is $5 and participants are asked to commit to raising $105 from family and friends.

Packets can be picked up later in April, to be sure they have enough T-shirts and everything printed with sponsor logos. They will also mail packets for anyone 20 miles or more away from the hospital, to encourage out-of-towners to participate.

Participants will receive a T-shirt, water bottle (for which they already have a sponsor), and hopefully a pedometer. They are still looking for a $500 sponsor for this.

Robinson reminds everyone this is intended to be a mission-focused event which focuses on the benefits of walking, highlights the hospital’s nursing teams and gives participants an opportunity to compete against others.

“That’s right,” Robinson added. “Find a friend, business or hospital department to challenge during the month of May.”

Albion Healthcare Center back open for walk-ins

By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 3 March 2025 at 7:21 pm

ALBION – Orleans Community Health has announced the reopening of walk-in services at its Albion Healthcare Center, beginning today. The announcement comes after a year of requiring patients to call ahead for appointments.

Walk-ins will again be welcomed during new extended hours, according to Scott Robinson, director of marketing for Orleans Community Health.

Effective immediately, patients can walk in for care from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. Monday to Friday. Saturday hours will be from 9 a.m. to noon.

This change will provide greater flexibility and convenience for individuals seeking medical care, especially those with urgent needs or who may find it challenging to schedule an appointment in advance.

“We understand the importance of accessibility and convenience in healthcare, and we’re thrilled to bring back walk-in services to our community,” Robinson said. “This is a significant step toward improving the patient experience, and we’re confident the extended hours and no-appointment-needed access will make it easier for people in Albion and the surrounding areas to receive the care they need in a timely manner.”

Ciarra Silversmith, clinic manager at Albion Healthcare Center, added, “For the past year, we’ve been committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of our patients, which is why we had to modify our services. But now, we’re excited to be able to offer walk-in services again, helping to streamline care for both our regular patients and newcomers. Our team is ready to assist anyone who walks through our doors.”

For more information or questions, call the Albion Healthcare Center at (585) 589-CARE.

3 honored for service to Medina Memorial during gala on hospital’s 100th anniversary

Photos by Tom Rivers: Roland Howell stands to be recognized as a recipient of the Bowen Award during a gala on Saturday night at Bent’s Opera House. Howell’s son Peter is at right. Howell has been a key volunteer for Medina Memorial Hospital for several decades. The Bowen Award is named for George Bowen, a man who in the early 1900s saw a need in the Medina community and started a hospital.

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 3 March 2025 at 9:00 am

MEDINA – Orleans Community Health honored three people on Saturday with a Bowen Award, given in honor of the man who pushed to start Medina Memorial Hospital a century ago.

During a gala at Bent’s Opera House, set to a Roaring ’20s theme, Orleans Community health recognized Roland Howell, the late Van Hungerford, and the late Dr. Ekran John Boulous. The event was the third annual gala to benefit Medina Memorial and Orleans Community Health. About 100 people attended with many dressing in a flapper style from that era.

(Left) Megan Johnson, president of the OCH Foundation, welcomes the crowd to the event. Johnson said many community members are very supportive of the hospital and OCH services in the community.

(Right) Marc Shurtz, the OCH/Medina Memorial chief executive officer, said the organization is getting stronger, and adding more services to the community.

Many smaller hospitals in the region have either closed or cut back services, Shurtz said. Medina Memorial added an Ear, Nose and Throat Clinic in October, and has expanded with wound care, podiatry, more general surgery and other services.

Orleans Community Health will soon start construction on the $1.9 million Medina Healthcare Center. This outpatient clinic will be done in phases and will include primary care providers. OCH seeks to address a gap in accessible outpatient services. The planned renovations include more than 13 exam rooms, improved parking and a dedicated entrance on the south end of the campus.

“Our plan is to bring more needed care to the community,” Shurtz said. “We not only want to be sustainable for years to come, but we want to increase the services we’re providing.”

About 100 people attended the gala at Bent’s Opera House with music by Ken Ryan and the Professionals.

Many of the attendees dressed up in a Roaring ’20s style. A bigger event is being planned in September for the 100th anniversary of the hospital.

Kim Gray, chief nursing officer and director of Surgical Services at Medina Memorial, shares about the late Dr. Ekram John Boulos, who was honored with one of the Bowen Awards on Saturday.

Dr. Ekram John Boulos

Dr. Boulos passed away at age 69 on Dec. 14, 2022. He worked as an ENT surgeon for nearly 50 years and was a specialist in otolaryngology – head & neck surgery.

Gray said Dr. Boulos was very dedicated to his patients and the staff at Medina Memorial. He insisted on music in the operating room, sometimes classical, rock, jazz “and sometimes something completely unexpected,” Gray said.

“It set the tone, brought comfort, and, in many ways, reflected the rhythm of his work,” she said.

He gave many of the patients, nurses, staff and other doctors nicknames, some of which stuck for decades, Gray said.

“It was his way of breaking the ice, making people feel at ease, and reminding everyone that medicine, at its core, is deeply personal,” Gray said. “It wasn’t just about treating ailments. It was about making connections, building trust, and bringing a little lightness to even the most serious of situations.”

Gray read a letter from Dr. Boulos wife, Neveen. She said she and her husband arrived in the medina community in 1981 with “open arms” from Dr. Adeeb, Dr. Ghaly, Dr. Brooks, Dr. Bath, Dr. Sterling, Dr. Blanchette, Dr. Rho, Dr. Zimmer, Dr. Abassey and their families.

“But it wasn’t just them,” Mrs. Boulos wrote. “It was the entire Medina community. From the very beginning, we felt at home here, embraced by kindness, warmth and generosity. Medina became more than just a place to live; It became a part of us.”

Jeanne Crane, a retired nurse at Medina Memorial and former president of the Foundation board, tells about Van Hungerford and his contributions to Medina Memorial. The late Hungerford was a successful entrepreneur at SigmaMotor in Middleport. The company manufactured a pump for open heart surgery and later developed an infusion pump.

Hungerford served on the hospital board for a 12-year term beginning in 1966. Twelve years is the maximum length for a board member.

“During this time there was a doctor shortage and the board contacted local students enrolled in medical schools,” Crane said.

Medina Memorial held “Medicine Balls” to raise scholarship money to entice physicians to come to the hospital, Crane said and recalled attended a few of the events, usually held at Middleport Fire Hall or the Armory in Medina. Those scholarships have helped bring doctors to the community, Crane said.

Hungerford was chairman of the Finance Committee and Building Fund. In 1969 as chairman, he solicited $424,952.

“While chair of this committee, he would make recommendations how money should be spent and worked with insurance companies for reimbursements,” she said.

In 1969, he pushed to the have emergency room staffed 24-7 by physicians.

“On behalf of Orleans Community Health, the hospital and foundation board, I am so honored to be able to honor a man who gave so much to our hospital and our community,” Crane said.

Dawn Meland hugs Roland Howell after he presented with the Bowen Award on Saturday. Meland is a former board member for both the hospital and OCH Foundation.

Meland praised Howell for his many years of supporting the hospital and Orleans Community Health. She praised his “humility and kindness.”

“His impact can’t be overstated,” Meland said.

Howell, 96, remembers Bowen from back when Howell was a teen-ager and as a young adult. Howell praised the optimism and leadership of Bowen, who pushed to establish the hospital in 1925.

“He was very dynamic,” Bowen told the crowd at Bent’s. “He wanted to build this hospital and he got it built.”

Howell served 12 years on the board, mainly in 1980s when the hospital did an addition and put a focus on quality assurance.

“It is unique today,” Howell said about a hospital in a smaller community, especially one that is adding services.

“The fact that this standalone hospital still exists in this community is a rarity and tribute to all of the people here,” Howell said. “I’m pleased I was a part of it.”