Provided photo: A bench donated to Orleans Community Health and Orleans Community Health Foundation was recently dedicated at the front entrance. Here, chief executive officer Marc Shurtz, left, landscaper Logan Callara, Orleans County Legislature Chairman Lynne Johnson and County Legislator Skip Draper pose with the bench after the ceremony.

MEDINA – Orleans Community Health Foundation and Orleans Community Health are recognizing the donation of a beautiful bench from local entrepreneur Logan Callara, owner of Logan’s Landscaping.

The bench was formally dedicated during a gathering attended by Orleans Community Health chief executive officer Marc Shurtz, Callara, Orleans County Legislature Chairman Lynne Johnson and County Legislator Skip Draper.

A lifelong Orleans County resident, Callara has become known not only for his growing landscaping business, but also for his commitment to supporting the local community through volunteerism and charitable efforts, according to Scott Robinson, director of marketing at Orleans Community Health.

Callara’s donation reflects a continued investment in the health and wellbeing of local residents and visitors, Robinson said.

“We are incredibly grateful to Logan and Logan’s Landscaping for donating such a beautiful bench for our patients, families and visitors to enjoy,” said Megan Johnson, executive director of the Orleans Community Health Foundation. “As we prepare to break ground on the new entrance for the Medina Healthcare Center on the hospital’s south side, we are excited that the bench will have a permanent home in that new welcoming space for our community.”

The bench currently serves as a place of comfort and rest for visitors to the hospital campus and will eventually be relocated to the new south entrance as part of the ongoing Medina Healthcare Center project.

For more information about Orleans Community Health Foundation or ways to support local healthcare initiatives, visit www.orleanscommunityhealth.org/giving or e-mail foundation@medinamemorial.org.

Adult smoking rate in Orleans, 25.2%, nearly triple state average

Press Release, Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments

Smoking is the leading cause of preventable disease and death in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), smoking causes more than 480,000 deaths each year. Millions of people also live with smoking-related illnesses, including cancer, heart disease, stroke, and lung disease.

Smoking can also harm people who do not smoke. The CDC reports that secondhand smoke causes about 40,000 adult deaths and 400 infant deaths each year in the United States. Breathing in secondhand smoke can increase the risk of heart disease, lung cancer, stroke, and breathing problems.

Adult smoking rates in both Genesee and Orleans Counties are higher than the New York State average of 9.9%, at 17.8% in Genesee County and 25.2% in Orleans County. This puts residents at greater risk for serious health problems caused by tobacco use and secondhand smoke.

“The good news is that quitting smoking has both immediate and long-term health benefits,” said Paul Pettit, Public Health Director for the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments. “Quitting can be hard, but support and encouragement can help. We want residents to know they do not have to quit alone.”

The Orleans County Health Department is offering a free Tobacco Cessation Class Series to help community members quit tobacco products. Participants will receive support, resources, and simple strategies to help them quit and stay tobacco-free.

Classes will be held at Hoag Library on Wednesdays from June 3rd through July 8th from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Each session will last approximately one hour.

Benefits of quitting smoking include:

• Healthier heart and lungs
• Lower risk of cancer and other diseases
• Easier breathing and more energy
• Helping protect family members from secondhand smoke
• Saving money that was spent on tobacco products

Residents interested in participating are encouraged to register by filling out the following registration form: Tobacco Cessation Class Inquiry Form.

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

Darlene Zeliff

MEDINA – This year’s For Women Only, sponsored by Orleans Community Health, will honor a longtime nurse, who passed away from cancer.

Darlene Zeliff, who gave more than 40 years of compassionate service, left a lasting impact on the hospital and the community, said Scott Robinson, director of marketing at Orleans Community Health.

For Women Only is an empowering evening focused on cancer education, support, wellness and connection, and will take place June 2 at White Birch Golf Course in Lyndonville, beginning at 5 p.m.

The annual event brings together survivors, caregivers, healthcare professionals, families,  and community members for meaningful conversations surrounding cancer awareness, advocacy, treatment, grief, healing and life after diagnosis.

“This year’s event is especially meaningful as we honor Darlene Zeliff,” said Kimberly Gray, chief nursing officer and director of surgical services at Medina Memorial Hospital. “For more than 40 years, Darlene devoted her life to nursing and to this hospital. She represented the very best of nursing through her compassion, quiet leadership and unwavering dedication to her patients, coworkers and community. Her impact on generations of families and healthcare professionals will never be forgotten.”

The evening will feature speakers sharing personal experiences and insights on topics including detection and diagnosis, treatment and health advocacy, moving forward after treatment and grief and loss.

Attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in a panel discussion with healthcare and wellness professionals, visit vendors offering health and cancer support resources and enjoy special features, including basket raffles, networking opportunities and community support connections. There will also be light food served and a cash bar.

Organizers say the goal of the event is to create a welcoming environment where education, encouragement and shared experiences can empower individuals and families affected by cancer.

Community members are encouraged to attend this inspiring evening of education, remembrance and support.

For questions or to donate a basket, contact Lori Condo at (585) 798-2000.

More information is also available by clicking here.

Press Release, Orleans County Department of Mental Health

ALBION – The month of May is recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month and the Orleans County Department of Mental Health is taking the opportunity to work with their local, regional and national partners to promote the many mental services available to residents.

“It is important that we are always talking about mental health and the services and supports available, as it is an effort to reduce stigma and reinforce the importance of reaching out for help for anyone who is experiencing a mental health challenge or are in emotional distress,” said Danielle Figura, Director of Orleans County Mental Health & Community Services.

Figura said drawing attention to mental health awareness begins with promoting the county’s Care and Crisis Helpline (585) 283-5200 and the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 988. Both the local and National helpline are  available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

“The Care & Crisis Helpline and 988 are just a phone call away when we find ourselves, a family member, neighbor, or friend experiencing emotional distress whether its depression, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma or any other need that may be interfering with emotional wellbeing,” said Figura.  “We want the people to know they are not alone.”

Figura said locally in Orleans County, there are many mental health supports and resources available to the residents of Orleans County.  “These programs and services exist to support individuals and their families so if you feel you or someone you know may need assistance, please reach out to these resources for information and support.”

In collaboration with the Genesee/Orleans Health Department, Orleans County launched the Credible Mind Online Platform in 2026. This online self-directed learning and resource platform allows individuals to explore opportunities to improve their overall wellbeing, but specifically provides online education, support, and resource referrals to promote someone’s mental health wellness. Orleans County residents can access this resource at https://genesee-orleansny.crediblemind.com/

Orleans County Mental Health Department (click here)

• New York State Office of Mental Health Licensed Article 31 Outpatient Clinic Treatment Programs offering individual therapy, family therapy, couples therapy and psychiatric services (to include psychiatric evaluation, psychiatric monitoring, and pharmacology). Open Access Hours for New Clients are Monday – Friday at 12:30 p.m.
• New York State Office of Mental Health Licensed Article 31 Outpatient Clinic Satellite Sites at UConnect Care and Orleans County School Districts offering individual therapy at those host locations.
• Health Home Care Management Programs serving both youths and adults. A program under New York State Department of Health, which looks to connect individuals to additional supports and resources to promote overall physical and emotional health wellness.

Crisis Supports & Resources 

• The Care & Crisis Helpline (585) 283-5200 serving Orleans County residents for any immediate mental health crisis needs 24 hrs/day, 7 days/wk, 365 days/year.
• 988” National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or Text 988, Connect via chat at 988Lifeline.org or visit 988Lifeline.org for more resources.
• Rochester Psychiatric Center MIT Team (mobile integration team) – Serves Adults only and is available Monday – Friday during business hours. Providing in home, community-based assessments, outreach and engagement efforts. Requests for the RPC MIT Team can be made through the Care & Crisis Helpline at (585) 283-5200.

Additional Programs & Resources

• Mental Health Association of Genesee & Orleans Counties. Serving adults in Orleans County, through programs to include the Warm Line, Transportation, and Drop-In-Center https://mhago.org/
• Oak Orchard Health https://oakorchardhealth.org/

MEDINA – Orleans Community Health has announced the Wound Care Center has been recognized by Healogics, the nation’s largest provider of advanced wound care services, as a 2025 Center of Distinction.

To earn this designation, the Center achieved outstanding clinical outcomes for 12 consecutive months, including a patient satisfaction rate of 96 percent.

“Receiving the Center of Distinction award from Healogics is an incredible honor for our team at Orleans Community Health Wound Care Center,” said Lisa Albanese Klein, program director. “This recognition reflects the dedication, compassion and clinical excellence our wound care team brings to patients every day.”

The Wound Care Center is located on the first floor of Medina Memorial Hospital and offers highly specialized wound care to patients suffering from diabetic ulcers, pressure ulcers, infections and other chronic wounds which have not healed in 30 days. Leading edge treatments at the Center include negative pressure wound therapy, bio-engineered tissues, biosynthetic dressings and growth factor therapies.

An award ceremony will take place at 2 p.m. June 3 at the Wound Care Center, which opened in 2020.

“In just six years, our wound care center has grown from operating two days a week to caring for patients four days a week – a reflection of both the increasing need for advanced wound care close to home and the trust our community places in us,” Albanese Klein said. “Our 96% patient satisfaction score and 82% wound mix-adjusted comprehensive healing rate demonstrate our commitment to delivering exceptional care and achieving meaningful outcomes for those we serve.”

Albanese Klein continued to say, “This award belongs to our dedicated staff members who work tirelessly to support, encourage and care for each patient throughout their healing journey. We are proud to provide high-quality wound care close to home and remain committed to improving the health and well-being of our community.”

MEDINA – Medina Healthcare Center has announced a new occupational health service for the community, with the addition of Department of Transportation physicals and compliance testing now available on-site through Michelle Smith FNP, a National Registry certified provider.

DOT physicals are available for $145 per exam and are designed to help commercial drivers and employers meet federal safety requirements quickly and conveniently close to home.

With Orleans County and surrounding communities serving a strong agricultural, transportation, logistics and commercial driving workforce, this new service fills an important local need, according to Scott Robinson, director of marketing at Medina Memorial Hospital.

Seasonal farm operations, trucking companies, school transportation providers, construction firms, municipalities and independent drivers often rely on CDL-certified drivers to keep operations moving safely and efficiently, Robinson said.

“Access to certified DOT examinations locally is an important service for both workers and employers,” said Michelle Smith, FNP. “Our goal is to make the process convenient while helping drivers stay healthy, compliant and on the road.”

DOT physicals are required for many individuals who operate commercial motor vehicles, including:

• Commercial truck derivers
• CDL license holders
• Bus and motorcoach drivers
• Municipal and highway department vehicle operators
• Delivery and freight derivers
• Municipal and highway department vehicle operators
• Construction and heavy equipment transport drivers
• Emergency response and specialty vehicle operators.

In addition to DOT physical examinations, Medina Healthcare Center now offers

• DOT drug testing
• DOT alcohol testing
• Randomized drug testing services for employers.

These services support businesses and organizations that must maintain compliance with federal workplace safety and transportation regulations.

“We’re hoping this announcement is helpful to many in the community,” Robinson said.

Appointments and additional information are available by called Medina Healthcare Center at (585) 798-2550. The center is located on the first floor of the Medina Memorial Hospital.

ALBION – Albion Healthcare Center has announced that it has achieved Patient-Centered Medical Home certification, reinforcing the organization’s commitment to delivering high quality, patient-centered healthcare to the rural communities it serves, according to information from Scott Robinson, director of marketing at Medina Memorial Hospital.

These recognitions reflect Albion Healthcare Center’s dedication to providing accessible, coordinated and comprehensive care focused on improving the health and wellbeing of patients and families throughout the region.

PCMH certification is a nationally recognized distinction awarded to healthcare practices that meet rigorous standards for primary care delivery. The certification recognizes healthcare organizations that prioritize strong patient-provider relationships, coordinated care, quality improvement and enhanced access to services, Robinson explained.

In addition, the Albion Healthcare Center maintains the Rural Health Clinic accreditation, which highlights its role in expanding access to essential healthcare services in rural communities, the RHC designation supports the delivery of primary care services in underserved areas, while holping ensure patients have access to preventive care, chronic disease management and routine medical services close to home.

“These achievements demonstrate the commitment of our providers, nurses and staff to delivering exceptional care to our community,” said Alana Palone, clinic administrator at Orleans Community Health. “These accreditations reflect our continued focus on improving access, strengthening care coordination and providing compassionate, patient-centered healthcare.”

As a Patient-Centered Medical Home and accredited Rural Health Clinic, Albion Healthcare Clinic emphasizes:

• Comprehensive care through a multidisciplinary healthcare team
• Improved access to services, communication and coordinated treatment plans
• Ongoing quality improvement and patient safety initiatives
• Enhanced coordination between primary care providers, specialists and community resources
• Expanded healthcare access for rural and underserved populations

These recognitions further support Albion Healthcare Center’s mission to provide high-quality healthcare services while strengthening the health of the communities it serves.

The Albion Healthcare Center initially opened in late fall 2012 as an urgent care, although it was never officially an urgent care, and the name was quickly changed to a walk-in medical center. It has been the Albion Healthcare Center for years now, according to Robinson.

For more information about Albion Healthcare Center and its services, visit orleanscommunityhealth.org/albion-healthcare-center or call (585) 589-CARE.

MEDINA – Families across Orleans County are invited to celebrate the start of summer by attending the upcoming Children’s Wellness Fair, hosted by Orleans Community Health and Medina Memorial Hospital. The free community event is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 30 at the park south of Medina Memorial Hospital.

Designed for children of all ages and their families, the Children’s Wellness Fair will feature a variety of fun, hands-on activities focused on health, safety and wellness in a welcoming outdoor setting, according to Scott Robinson, director of Community Partners at Orleans Community Health.

Attendees can enjoy bicycle helmet and safety education, doctor dress-up activities, face painting and crafts, stuffed animal check-ups, an obstacle course, snow cones, giveaways and more.

The event serves as a kickoff to summer, while encouraging families to stay active, healthy and connected to community resources, Robinson said. Hospital staff and community partners will be on hand throughout the day to engage with families and provide information in a fun and interactive environment.

“We’re excited to welcome families to Medina Memorial Hospital for a day focused on wellness, fun and community,” Robinson said. “This event is an opportunity to celebrate the start of summer while creating positive experiences for children and helping families learn more about healthy living and safety.”

The Children’s Wellness Fair is at no cost to attendees and no registration is required.

For additional information about the event, visit Orleans Community Health or contact Robinson at SRobinson@medinamemorial.org.

Photos by Ginny Kropf: Posing for their pictures are, from left, Kerry Miller, Emergency Room nurse manager; Carol Martucci, a nursing supervisor; hospital CEO/CIO Marc Shurtz; and Rebecca Mannella, director of nursing in the North Wing.

North Wing residents Audrey Bieliski (a retired nurse) and Grace Boyer, 100, smile for the camera amid an arch of balloons. The occasion was the annual Nurses’ Appreciation Brunch at Medina Memorial Hospital on Wednesday.

MEDINA – Recognizing nurses, both active and retired, has been a long-time tradition at Medina Memorial Hospital.

Annually, for many years the hospital has recognized its nurses during Nurses’ Appreciate Week, and in recent years further honored them at a brunch.

Semi-retired nurse Charlie Smith said the first Nurses’ Appreciation Day was celebrated in 1998.

“We’ve celebrated Nurses’ Week for a long time, but this is the fourth annual Nurses’ Day Brunch,” said Lori Condo, assistant controller.

Between 40 and 50 nurses annually attend the event, said Kim Gray, chief nursing officer and director of surgical services.

Nurses enjoyed an impressive brunch with punch, assorted pastries, fruit and hors d’oeuvres.

New this year was a giant balloon arch in the hallway for photo ops.

“As we gather for our Fourth Annual Nurses’ Day Brunch, there is a feeling in the room that is hard to put into words,” Gray said. “But we all recognize it – it is gratitude. It is pride.

“To our past nurses here today, your presence is a gift,” Gray continued. “You are the foundation of everything this hospital represents. You cared for this community through decades of change, often with fewer resources, but never with less heart. You didn’t just do the job – you lived it.”

To the current nurses of today, Gray said they carry that legacy forward in ways that matter more than they may ever fully realize.

“In a small rural hospital, nursing is deeply personal,” Gray said. “You care for neighbors, friends and sometimes your own family. The care you give today is rooted in the examples set by those who came before you, and together, you create something truly special – a continuous thread of dedication that spans generations.”

Gray paid tribute to three extraordinary nurses who were lost during the past year – Marcia Clark, Darlene Zeliff and Marian Miano.

“They were more than colleagues,” Gray said. “They were part of the fabric of this hospital and this community. Their hands cared, their voices comforted and their presence made a lasting difference in countless lives. Their legacy lives on through all of you.”

(Left) Corporate educator Christine Kropf, left, and Cindy Denniston, surgical nurse, share a laugh at the buffet table during the Nurses’ Day Brunch. (Center) Registered nurse Joseph Pietrzykowski, left, and semi-retired nurse Charlie Smith find plenty to talk about at the Nurses’ Day Brunch. Smith attended his first Nurses’ Appreciation Day in 1998. (Right) Karen Irwin, a registered nurse at Medina Memorial Hospital, looks over the shoulder of Dorothy Casey, left, and Joanne Bracey, both retired nurses. Irwin retired last week.

Gray concluded by saying the day was more than just a brunch. It was a moment to reflect, to reconnect and to recognize something truly rare – the bond between past and present, the shared purpose and the enduring heart of nursing in a place that means so much to so many.

“Thank you for the lives you’ve touched, the compassion you’ve given and the legacy you continue to build every single day,” Gray added. “It is truly an honor to stand among you and celebrate you.”

Medina Memorial Hospital paid tribute to its nurses – both current and retired – at a brunch Wednesday. Audrey Bieliski, left, a retired nurse and resident of the North Wing, relaxes while retired nurses Jeanne Crane and Rosemary Pegelow share conversation. At the next table, Mary Lou Tuohey, former mayor Mike Sidari and his wife Brenda enjoy brunch and conversation.

Kim Gray at rear, chief nursing officer and director of surgical services at Medina Memorial Hospital, praises the nurses – both current and retired – during the annual Nurses’ Day Brunch on Wednesday.

Photos by Ginny Kropf: Reinhard Rogowski, president of the Medina Historical Society, and Barbara Hancock look at a display by Erica Waneceski depicting how things were in hospitals years ago.

Erica Waneceski explains how an old blood pressure cuff worked.

MEDINA – The final meeting of the Medina Historical Society for spring took place Monday night at the Medina Senior Center. The meeting place was changed because of the library being closed for construction.

Guest speaker was Erica Waneceski of Medina, who once studied to be a physician assistant. She gave a presentation on “The Medina Hospital Experience, BC,” before corporations, consortiums and computers.

She displayed a large selection of gadgets, equipment and clothing used decades ago. These included charts written by hand, a surgeon’s coat, a student nurse’s uniform, an early blood pressure cuff, a kit to draw blood and a variety of bed pans, all made of metal, as opposed to today’s which are plastic.

Orleans County historian Catherine Cooper produced a photograph of a nursing class which included Marian Vail, a longtime nurse at Medina Memorial Hospital.

“Things have really changed,” Waneceski said. “We used to have to sterilize bed pans by hand, isolation techniques are different, EEG’s were recorded on paper (not computers) and blood pressure cuffs had rows of snaps, instead of Velcro.”

Waneceski remembers reading the first article about CAT scans in 1975.

She also shared how in older days, nurses always gave patients a back rub in the evening. They don’t do that anymore, she said.

That was the Medina Historical Society’s last meeting until September. Cooper reminded the audience the Historical Society on West Avenue is open from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. the first Saturday of every month through the summer.

Tim and Catherine Cooper, left, chat with Sue Jannick at Monday night’s meeting of Medina Historical Society, at which Erica Wanieski gave a presentation on working in a hospital before computers. Jannick spent 47 years as a medical transcriptionist, which now is considered “a dinosaur.”

Provided photos: (Left) Marc Shurtz presides over an internal town hall meeting at Orleans Community Health, one of his many duties as CEO/CIO. (Right) Marc Shurtz and Jody Stack, director of Nutritional Services, pose with the cake commemorating Orleans Community Health’s 100th anniversary last year.

MEDINA – Orleans Community Health is proud to announce the selection of Marc Shurtz, CEO/CIO, as a recipient of the 2026 Buffalo Business First Excellence in Health Care Award.

The award recognizes healthcare professionals and leaders across Western New York who demonstrate exceptional leadership, innovation and dedication to improving healthcare within their communities. Shurtz will be recognized alongside fellow honorees during the Excellence in Health Care Awards celebration on June 17.

Marc Shurtz, CEO/CIO of Orleans Community Health

Shurtz has served as CEO/CIO of Orleans Community Health for the past six years and has worked in the healthcare field for more than 11 years. Since stepping into the role of CEO/CIO in 2020, after previously serving as chief information officer and corporate compliance officer, he has helped guide Orleans Community Health through executive transition, operational challenges and strategic growth, while maintaining a strong focus on preserving access to local healthcare services.

As CEO/CIO, Shurtz provides executive leadership for the organization while overseeing strategic technology and operational direction. His work includes guiding system-wide priorities, collaborating with organizational leadership and community stakeholders and supporting the expansion of healthcare services. His leadership combines strategic planning and operational oversight with a visible and deeply community-centered approach.

Over the past several years, Shurtz has helped lead several transformative initiatives at Orleans Community Health. Under his leadership, the organization advanced the Medina Healthcare Center project through successful community fundraising efforts and the securing of a $1.88 million New York State grant. He has also He has also supported the continued growth of outpatient and specialty services and worked to strengthen workforce recruitment and retention efforts and through a significant labor agreement focused on workforce stability. In addition, his leadership played an important role in honoring Medina Memorial Hospital’s 100-year legacy in 2025, while helping position the organization for the future.

Jeannie Wodo, director of IT Services at Orleans Community Health, submitted the nomination recognizing Shurtz for the award.

“Marc leads with both vision and heart,” Wodo said. “His dedication to preserving and strengthening rural healthcare is evident in every decision he makes. He has helped move important projects forward while remaining deeply committed to the people who rely on Orleans Community Health every day. His leadership inspires those around him and continues to make a meaningful difference throughout our community.”

Beyond his executive leadership responsibilities, Shurtz serves on the Orleans Community Health Foundation Board, Medina Area Partnership and the Audit committee of HANYS, and actively participates in community volunteer efforts.

“What makes rural healthcare so important is the direct impact it has on families, neighbors and entire communities,” Shurtz said. “It is truly an honor to receive this recognition from Buffalo Business First, but this award reflects the dedication of our entire team at Orleans Community Health. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve this community and help ensure quality healthcare remains close to home for future generations.”

The Buffalo Business First Excellence in Health Care Awards celebrate individuals whose leadership, service and commitment are helping shape the future of healthcare throughout the region. Shurtz is the second recipient from Orleans Community Health to be honored by Buffalo Business First. He joins Rhonda Woody, who was recognized in 2023.

Press Release, Oak Orchard Health

Marco Altieri

BROCKPORT – Oak Orchard Health, a leading healthcare provider in rural upstate New York, has introduced Marco Altieri as its Chief Executive Officer.

On Wednesday night, the Oak Orchard Health Board of Directors voted unanimously to remove the interim status from Altieri’s title. This vote followed a rigorous interview session conducted by the board on Monday, April 20th, and due deliberation thereafter.

Altieri comes to Oak Orchard with over 20 years of experience in healthcare, 16 of which was spent as a CEO. In his role as interim CEO, he spearheaded efforts to inspire and motivate Oak Orchard’s providers and staff through open and transparent communication, equipping them with the tools to improve patient care across our communities.

Altieri has set ambitious goals as CEO: stabilize operations; develop a 3–5-year strategic plan; improve overall organizational efficiency; reduce the potential for risks and liabilities; continue efforts at strengthening organizational culture; focus on Oak Orchard’s financial well-being and provide for controlled growth. The Board of Directors believe these goals align with their priorities as well as the overall needs for the organization.

“We are pleased to announce that Marco Altieri has accepted the position of Chief Executive Officer at Oak Orchard Health,” said John Slenker, chairman of the Board of Directors. “He brings a wealth of experience, proven leadership, and a dynamic vision for the future of our organization.”

In his new role, Altieri will be responsible for directing all operational activities while balancing present-day stability with a clear vision for the organization’s future.

Photos by Tom Rivers

MEDINA – Stephanie Kruzynski, a Medina kindergarten teacher, brought her class to Medina Memorial Hospital today for the Teddy Bear Clinic where students bring in stuffed animals or dolls and go through different stations at the hospital.

Here, a student checks the temperature of a doll.

Medina had about 100 kindergarteners in the hospital today for the clinic. Today was the last Teddy Bear Clinic of the school year. Medina Memorial welcomed kids from Albion, Medina, Lyndonville and Barker this year, about 500 students in all.

Erica Chutko, manager of the X-Ray Department, shows students X-rays. She explained an X-Ray is a way to take a picture of the inside of a body. Getting an X-Ray doesn’t hurt, she told the students.

The Teddy Bear Clinic has been popular at the hospital since its return in 2015. Before that many school districts cut back on field trips and no schools visited the hospital about a decade before 2015.

Medina Memorial welcomes the students to help them feel more comfortable if they ever need to go the hospital. The kids can bring in toys and give those dolls and stuffed animals bandages, X-rays, Band-Aids and other care.

The kindergartners left their stuffed animals on the X-Ray table. Chutko showed students how that table goes up and down at the flip of a switch.

“Don’t you wish you had one of these in your bedroom?” she asked the kids.

Chutko told them adult humans typically have 206 bones in their bodies.

Kate Brauen, Doctor of Pharmacy and director of pharmacy at Orleans Community Health, talks about how medications can help people feel better who are sick or battling health issues.

Leah Brenner, a nurse practitioner, and Becka Schoolcraft (in back), the Medina Healthcare Center clinic manager, help students pretend to give shots and check the blood pressure of their stuffed animals.

MEDINA – Orleans Community Health has announced the launch of its New York State of Health Marketplace Assistance Program for 2026, made possible through a newly awarded grant supporting residents in both Orleans and Genesee counties.

They hope to extend the funding beyond 2026 to continue meeting the growing need for accessible health insurance guidance in the region, according to Scott Robinson, director of Marketing at OCH.

“Access to health coverage is foundational to building healthier communities,” Robinson said. “This grant allows us to expand our reach and ensure residents understand their options and receive the assistance they need at no cost.”

This initiative is part of OCH’s larger Healthy Communities Program, designed to provide health and wellness information to community members of all ages.

Through a partnership with the New York State Department of Health, certified navigators are now available to help individuals and families navigate their health insurance options through the NY State of Health Marketplace.

Navigators provide clear, unbiased information about available health insurance plans, helping residents compare coverage options, understand benefits and select plans that best meet their needs. These trained assistors offer personalized, one-on-one support to guide individuals through the enrollment process.

This free and confidential service is available at no cost to the community and includes assistance with:

• Applying for health insurance coverage
• Renewing or updating coverage plans
• Understanding eligibility for financial assistance
• Answering questions about available options and plan choices

One certified navigator will be based at the Batavia Dialysis Center and another at Medina Memorial Hospital. In addition to these locations, additional team members are available to assist, expanding the program’s reach across the region.

Beyond on-site appointments, certified navigators will conduct extensive community outreach, meeting individuals where it is most convenient – including community centers, libraries, partner organizations and local events. Navigators are already traveling to additional locations to further increase access and reduce barriers to enrollment.

Appointments are available by scheduling in advance, ensuring each individual receives dedicated time and support. All services are provided in a confidential setting, with a focus on helping residents find coverage that fits their unique needs.

Community members interested in scheduling an appointment, as well as organizations interested in hosting outreach visits, are encouraged to contact Orleans Community Health or visit OrleansCommunityHealth.org for more information.

Navigators may be reached directly by calling Jordan Grollmes in Orleans County at (585) 798-2476 or Dennis Ziolkowski in Genesee County at (585) 798-8125.