Press Release, U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand held a virtual press conference to announce the Capping Prescription Costs Act, legislation that would cap the annual out-of-pocket cost of prescription drugs at $2,000 for individuals and $4,000 for families with private insurance.

The legislation builds on transformational drug pricing reforms included in the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, which capped the price of insulin at $35 a month and out-of-pocket drug costs at $2,000 a year for Medicare Part D beneficiaries.

“No one should have to risk their health by skipping refills or rationing life-saving medication because they can’t afford the cost of their prescriptions,” said Senator Gillibrand.

Senators Bob Casey (D-PA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), John Fetterman (D-PA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Mazie Hirono (D-HI) cosponsor this bill. Representative Kathy Manning (D-NC) leads companion legislation in the House.

Throughout her time in Congress, Gillibrand has fought to lower the cost of prescription drugs. In 2022, she helped pass the Inflation Reduction Act, which capped Medicare patients’ out-of-pocket prescription drug costs at $2,000 per year; empowered Medicare to negotiate prescription drug prices; and regulated price increases by drug companies.

She is an original cosponsor of the Medicare for All Act, which would provide every American with prescription drug coverage. Last year, she joined a bipartisan push to lower out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs by limiting the use of harmful “copay accumulators,” which prevent copay assistance from counting toward a patient’s deductible or out-of-pocket maximum and make it harder for patients to afford their medications.

GO Health offers advice for people who encounter bats in their homes

Press Release, Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments

During the summer months, the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) typically see an increase in reports from residents who have encountered bats.

Bats can occasionally find their way into houses, particularly in older homes that are not properly sealed. This most often occurs during the summer nights.

“If you find a bat in your home, safely capture it and immediately contact the health department,” advised Darren Brodie, Environmental Health Director for GO Health. “We can assess whether there was potential exposure and if the bat needs to be tested. If you cannot capture the bat, call the health department for guidance on the next steps to take.”

In some situations, it is possible that a bat bite could go undetected. For example, if you awaken and find a bat in your room, if you see a bat in the room of an unattended child, or see a bat near someone that is under the influence, it is important to seek medical advice and have the bat tested.

To safely capture a bat:

• Turn on room lights and close all the windows.
• Close the room and closet doors.
• Wait for the bat to land.
• While wearing thick leather-like gloves, place a coffee can, pail or similar container over the bat (Never handle a bat with your bare hands).
• Slide a piece of cardboard under the container to trap the bat.
• Firmly hold the cardboard in place against the top of the container, turn it right side up and tape the cardboard tightly to the container.

If you do not feel comfortable capturing the bat or cannot do it safely, contact your respective health department during regular business hours.

If it is after regular business hours, contact your local county dispatch. In Orleans County, call (585) 589-5527. In Genesee County, call (585) 343-5000.

Other tips to prevent rabies include:

• Love your own, leave the rest alone. Do not pick up, touch, or feed wild or stray animals (raccoons, foxes, bats, stray cats, stray dogs, etc.). Wild or stray animals, including their babies, can have rabies.
• Keep rabies vaccinations current for all dogs, cats, and ferrets. This is important not only to keep your pets from getting rabies, but also to provide a barrier of protection for you and your family if your pet is bitten by a rabid wild or stray animal.
• Obey leash laws. Keep your dog fenced in or on a leash when outside of your home and in public areas. Avoid allowing your dog to approach unfamiliar dogs, people, or wildlife.

Residents are encouraged to take note of our upcoming drive-thru rabies vaccination clinics for dogs, cats, and ferrets in Genesee and Orleans Counties that are offered at no charge.

Orleans County Rabies Clinics at the Orleans County Fairgrounds (12690 State Route 31, Albion, NY 14411)

• Saturday, Aug. 10, from 9 to 11:30 a.m.
• Saturday, Oct. 19, from 9 to 11:30 a.m.

Genesee County Rabies Clinics at the Genesee County Fairgrounds (5056 East Main Street, Batavia, NY 14020)

• Thursday, Aug. 8, from 4 to 7 p.m.
• Thursday, Oct. 10, from 4 to 6 p.m.

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

You can also contact your respective health department:

• Orleans County- 585-589-3278 or OCPublicHealth@orleanscountyny.gov
• Genesee County- 585-344-2580 x5555 or Health@geneseeny.gov

Press Release, Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments

ALBION – The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) will be holding their Local Early Intervention Coordinating Council (LEICC) Quarterly Meeting.

The meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, July 17, from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at the Orleans County Health Department (14016 State Route 31, Suite 101, Albion, NY 14411). Refreshments will be provided.

The LEICC is a supportive group made up of county officials, early intervention providers, childcare providers, parents of children with disabilities and other community members.

The goal of the LEICC is to afford the opportunity for parents and other members to voice their thoughts and concerns on the strengths and weaknesses of the Genesee and Orleans County Early Intervention Program and to work together to improve the program.

The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments are encouraging parents to attend and to offer input as to how we can best meet the needs of all infants and toddlers in our local communities.

For Zoom connection information or for more information on the meeting, please contact Deborah Krenzer-Lewter, Director of Children with Special Needs, at 585-344-2580 ext. 5572 or 585-589-2777.

‘Every first responder knows that immediate intervention is crucial’

Press Release, Orleans County Emergency Management Office

ALBION – In response to the escalating opioid crisis gripping our nation, the Medina Fire Department has joined with Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health), Orleans County Mental Health and Orleans County Emergency Management in their effort to launch the “Naloxone Leave Behind Program” to equip our residents with the lifesaving tools necessary to intervene during opioid-related emergencies.

The Naloxone Leave Behind Program aims to raise awareness of the overdose crisis and to increase access to naloxone. Naloxone, often referred to by its brand name “Narcan”, is a life-saving medication that can quickly restore the breathing of a person experiencing an opioid overdose.

“Enhancing access to care and treatment through efforts like the Leave Behind Kit program is crucial to communities, especially for rural communities,” said Danielle Figura, LCSW-R, Director of Orleans County Mental Health and Director of Community Services for Orleans County. “The kits will also include additional information on available resources for those experiencing mental illness or emotional distress, because we know that we need to promote an individual’s overall well-being.”

The New York State Department of Health initiated the Naloxone Leave Behind Program early in 2023 (expanding on their 2006 Overdose Prevention Program), and it has since been adopted in many regions throughout the state.  The Village of Medina Fire Department is the pilot EMS agency for the program, made possible with opioid settlement funding through Orleans County Mental Health.

“The opioid epidemic has forever changed our small town and village life, not just as firefighters and EMS providers but as members of this community,” said Medina Fire Department Lt. Steve Cooley, who played a critical role in bringing this program into Orleans County.

After a brief trial period, the program will eventually be offered to all fire/EMS agencies within the county to voluntarily participate in. Mobile Crisis Teams operating within the county and Orleans County Probation will also be participating in the program.

“Every first responder knows that immediate intervention is crucial,” said Justin Niederhofer, Director of Emergency Management in the county. “In our rural community, and with the national EMS crisis, friends and family are often the first to recognize the signs of an overdose or to find the victim. The Naloxone Leave Behind Program essentially puts the lifesaving tools in the hands of those first on-scene.”

GO Health has identified a trend of elevated cocaine use locally that is causing fatal fentanyl overdoses.

“Through wastewater analysis, we have found that cocaine consumption is very high throughout Genesee and Orleans counties compared to other areas nationally,” stated Paul Pettit, Public Health Director for GO Health. “When cocaine is contaminated with fentanyl, it is causing preventable overdoses and overdose deaths. Many people who use street drugs like cocaine and counterfeit pills are unaware that what they are taking may contain a lethal dose of fentanyl. This is an example why the naloxone leave behind program is crucial for saving lives.”

Following an opioid related emergency, a leave behind kit will be offered to the family, friends or bystanders present at the incident. Each naloxone kit contains naloxone intra-nasal spray, 4mg/0.1ml (4 doses), a CPR face shield, signs of an overdose information card, emergency use instructions and additional information for those seeking further help. Trained personnel will provide training to those receiving leave behind kits.

“This program goes a long way to raise awareness, reduce the stigma surrounding opioid use disorders, and has the potential to save lives,” Niederhofer said. “These other departments and organizations have worked hard to get this program off the ground. We are happy to have been asked to join this effort going forward!”

GO Health, Village of Medina Fire Department, Orleans County Mental Health, and Orleans County Emergency Management are committed to continuing efforts to address the opioid crisis and ensure the well-being of all residents.

“This is a true example of collaboration, partnership, and maximizing the roles of our agencies working together, looking to achieve the same goal, by saving lives and reducing the number of opioid related overdoses and overdose related deaths in the Orleans County community,” Figura said.

By Drs. Kelsey Izzo and Sarah Smith, Pediatricians, Oak Orchard Health

In upstate New York, we wait for months for beautiful summer weather. It’s finally here but with the sunshine comes new tips for families to stay safe as they enjoy it this time around.

Sun safety

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), just a few serious sunburns can increase your child’s risk of skin cancer later in life. Adults and children need protection from ultraviolet (UV) rays whenever they’re outdoors. How can you avoid this?

• Hats and sunglasses with UV protection protect everyone from the sun.
• Kids need to wear sunscreen. Wearing 30 -50 SPF sunscreen is important for kids and reapply every two hours. If they are wet or swimming, you should put it on again after they dry off. Children under 6 months should not be exposed to direct sunlight at all. They should always be protected from the sun.
• On very hot days, be sure children are hydrated by offering them water as often as possible. The exception is with babies under 6 months. They do not need any additional water; breast milk or formula are enough for infants.
• UV rays are the strongest and most harmful during midday.
• Heat and babies. Summer is a great time to take your children out for a stroll but be mindful of how hot it’s getting inside the stroller, especially if you’re using a sunshade or blanket to shield the sun. Children can overheat. How can you tell? If they are turning red or are sweaty, those are two signs. Also, feel their chest to see if it’s hot. Shorter walks are preferred.
• Babies do not need to wear too much clothing on hot days. The rule of thumb is one more layer that you.

During the hot summer, it’s never a good idea to leave kids in cars for any amount of time. And be sure to check the backseat so that no child is left behind.

Water Safety

Naturally, no child should be left alone in or near water. Drowning is a very real risk. According to the CDC, drowning is the #1 cause of death in children ages 1 to 4.  Stay within arm’s reach of the child even if they’re wearing a flotation device.

Be sure to have a fence around your backyard pool with locked gates. Home doors should be locked so kids can’t get out to the pool area.  Sensors on gates and doors offer added protection and safety.  Remember, even small kiddy pools with 6 inches of water, are still a hazard. Kids still need to be supervised.

Bike riding

• Bike helmets for kids of all ages are recommended. Of course, adults should also wear helmets.
• Limit distractions. No bike rider should be listening to music, they should be aware of their surroundings and hear the vehicles and other bikes that may be in the area.
• Adults can supervise the little ones. Young children shouldn’t be riding alone and certainly not riding on busy streets if there’s no shoulder or sidewalk.
• Knee pads and elbow pads are a great safety idea.
• Kids should let parents and caregivers know where they are going and when they’re expected back. Parents can check in with their kids periodically to be sure they are in a safe location.

Cell phones

Whether it’s summer or winter, less than two hours of screen time per day (ages 2 and up) is a best practice. The American Academy of Pediatrics discourages media use by children younger than 2 and recommends limiting older children’s screen time to no more than one or two hours a day.

Avoiding screen time before bedtime is another great tip. That includes a TV, laptop, tablet, or cell phone.

Staying healthy in the summer

We’re here if you need us. If you’re looking for a pediatrician for your children, give Oak Orchard Health a call at (585) 637-3905.

Dr. Devon Huff, Orleans Community Health

At some point, 30% of people living in the United States will get a hernia. While males are far more susceptible to them, women are hardly immune.

What is a hernia?

A hernia occurs when there is a gap in the abdominal wall, allowing internal abdominal contents to push through. While hernias can develop anywhere along the abdominal wall, they most commonly appear in specific areas such as the umbilical region (belly button), the groin, or through a prior surgical incision. Understanding the locations and symptoms of hernias is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.

One of the primary indicators that you might have a hernia is the presence of a noticeable bulge at the affected site, often accompanied by pain or discomfort during physical activity. Although hernias can cause significant discomfort, they are not always dangerous. However, there are situations where they can become serious. A hernia typically becomes an emergency when a piece of intestine gets trapped inside it, known as an “incarcerated hernia.” Symptoms of an incarcerated hernia include severe pain at the site, a sudden bulge that wasn’t previously noticeable, uncontrollable vomiting, a large, distended abdomen, and the inability to pass gas or have a bowel movement. These symptoms necessitate immediate medical attention, as an incarcerated hernia requires urgent surgical intervention.

Diagnosing a hernia can often be straightforward. Many hernias can be identified through a simple physical examination by a healthcare professional. However, imaging techniques like a CT scan are also commonly used to confirm the diagnosis, especially in complex cases.

The decision to undergo surgery for a hernia is a personal one and should be discussed with a surgeon or other qualified healthcare professional. Surgery is the best option for many individuals, but it may not be necessary for everyone. Some people may manage their hernia with lifestyle modifications and non-surgical treatments, depending on the severity and symptoms.

After a hernia repair, the concern about recurrence is valid. Unfortunately, no hernia repair method guarantees a 100% success rate. Recurrence rates vary, with some studies reporting as low as 0.5% and others as high as 10-12%, particularly in cases involving more complicated repairs. Despite these statistics, many people who undergo hernia surgery experience significant relief from symptoms and a marked improvement in their quality of life.

Understanding hernias, from their causes and symptoms to treatment options and potential risks, is essential for managing this common medical condition effectively. With timely diagnosis and appropriate care, most individuals can lead a comfortable and active life even after experiencing a hernia.

While hernias can sometimes occur due to factors beyond your control, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing one:

1. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Being overweight or obese can increase your risk of developing a hernia. By maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise, you can reduce the strain on your abdominal muscles and lower your risk.
2. Practice Proper Lifting Technique: When lifting heavy objects, use your legs instead of your back, and avoid lifting objects that are too heavy for you to handle safely. If you need to lift something heavy, ask for assistance or use lifting equipment if available.
3. Avoid Straining During Bowel Movements: Straining during bowel movements can increase pressure in your abdomen and potentially contribute to the development of a hernia. Ensure you’re getting enough fiber in your diet to promote regular bowel movements and avoid straining.
4. Strengthen Your Core Muscles: Engaging in exercises that strengthen your core muscles, such as abdominal crunches, planks, and yoga, can help support your abdominal wall and reduce the risk of hernias.
5. Quit Smoking: Smoking can weaken tissues in the body, including those in the abdomen, which may increase the risk of hernias. Quitting smoking can improve your overall health and reduce your risk of hernias and other related conditions.
6. Treat Persistent Coughs: Chronic coughing can put strain on the abdominal muscles and increase the risk of developing a hernia. If you have a persistent cough, seek medical attention to identify and treat the underlying cause.
7. Address Chronic Constipation: Chronic constipation can lead to straining during bowel movements, which may contribute to the development of hernias. Stay hydrated, eat a high-fiber diet, and talk to your doctor about managing constipation effectively.

For those who have already experienced a hernia, understanding the signs of recurrence and seeking prompt medical advice is crucial. Regular check-ups with a provider can help monitor the condition and prevent complications.

Ultimately, awareness and proactive management are key to reducing the risk of hernias and ensuring prompt treatment if they do occur. By taking these preventive steps and staying informed, individuals can lead healthier, more comfortable lives, minimizing the impact of hernias on their overall well-being.

Press Release, Genesee & Orleans County Health Departments

Genesee and Orleans counties are expecting unusually hot weather this week, which will last through Friday evening, particularly on Wednesday and Thursday.

“The duration of the heat will include both daytime and nighttime temperatures, with little or no relief during the overnight hours,” stated Paul Pettit, public health director of the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health). “This poses an elevated risk of causing heat-related illnesses.”

GO Health is reminding residents to take necessary precautions during this week’s extreme heat event. Follow the steps below to stay cool, hydrated, and safe:

• Stay in a cool or air-conditioned building as much as possible. Even a few hours spent in air conditioning can help your body stay cooler when you go back into the heat.
• Cover windows with drapes or shades.
• Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water and avoid sugary or alcoholic beverages. Don’t wait until you are thirsty to drink.
• Schedule outdoor activities carefully. If you must be outdoors, try to limit your outdoor activity and find shade where you can. Limit strenuous activities and exercise. Drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks.
• Wear appropriate clothing. Choose clothing that is lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting.
• Take a cool shower or bath using mildly warm water. Sudden temperature changes may make you feel dizzy or sick.
• Use your stove and oven less to maintain a cooler temperature in your home.
• Do not leave kids, pets, or anyone else in cars. Cars can quickly heat up to dangerous temperatures, even with a window cracked open.
• Wear sunscreen. Sunburn can impact how your body cools down and can cause you to become dehydrated.
• Check on your neighbors, family and friends, especially those who are at higher risk. Those most at risk include older adults, infants and young children, pregnant people, people with disabilities, people with chronic conditions, and outdoor workers.
• Keep your pets safe. Don’t keep your pets outdoors for too long, and provide them with plenty of fresh water. Avoid asphalt and dark pavement, which can be very hot.
• Know the signs and symptoms of heat related illnesses, including heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat stroke is a medical emergency, and if it is suspected, call 911 immediately. To learn more, click here.

MEDINA – Orleans Community Health held a luncheon Friday to honor the dedication and hard work of their certified nursing assistants, personal care assistants and patient care technicians.

The luncheon celebrated National Nursing Assistants’ Week, which officially runs from June 13 to 16. OCH, however, observes it from Monday through Friday, said Scott Robinson, director of Marketing, Communication and Outreach.

“During the week, our organization provided numerous opportunities to recognize and appreciate the invaluable contribution of these essential team members,” Robinson said. “Each day was dedicated to acknowledging the commitment and compassion of our CNAs, PCAs and PCTs.”

The luncheon was an opportunity to further thank these team members for their contributions, Robinson added. He called these professionals the backbone of patient care, ensuring the highest quality of service and support for their patients.

“We are immensely grateful for the dedication and compassion shown by our CNAs, PCAs and PCTs,” said Kimberly Gray, chief nursing officer of Orleans Community Health. “Their hard work and unwavering commitment are vital to the health and well-being of our community.”

Nursing assistants at OCH are Taylor Best, Roberto Vega, Theresa Parker, Tina Woolley, Angela Brown, Stephanie Klumpp. Olivia Neidert, Chloe Adams, Melinda Austin, Tricia Belcher, Jennifer Belcher, Barbara Brown, Jennie Dibble, Nina Dilorenzo, Kristi Fulwell-Adams, Kimberly Hare, Avery Horn, Pamela Jones, Tina Kelley, Destiny Miller, Ashley Pietrzykowsk8i, Kayleen Schafer, Jessica Skowneski, Lorraine Stockwell, Ronnie Depaul, Trisha Horton-Fisher, Elizabeth Langendorfer, Icyst Morales, Brittany Rosario, Donnalyn Shaughnessy, Tonya Stephens Newsome, Bailey Jackson, Victoria Wilson, Leah Knab, Amy Knox, Megan Perkins, Pamela VanOrden and Christine Walczak.

Orleans Community Health extends its heartfelt thanks to all nursing assistants for their continued excellence and dedication.

MIDDLEPORT – After being closed since 2020, the Middleport lab draw station will officially reopen to the public on June 3.

The lab draw station is located adjacent to the offices of Dr. David Stahl and Dr. Celeste Stahl-Balaban.

In a press release today, Orleans Community Health has announced the station is ready to resume its services for the community.

“Our team is dedicated to providing efficient and reliable lab testing services, ensuring patients receive timely and accurate results,” according to Scott Robinson, director of Marketing, Communications and Outreach at Orleans Community Health.

The public is advised that appointments are walk-in during their hours of operation and no advance appointment has to be scheduled.

Patients are reminded to bring their lab scripts or have them faxed directly to the lab at (585) 798-9348.

Hours of operation are 8 a.m. to noon and 12:30 to 3:45 p.m. Monday through Friday.

The Middleport Lab Draw Station is committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety and care, and looks forward to meeting the community’s lab testing needs with professionalism and a smile.

Orleans Community Health will also continue to offer lab draw services at Medina Memorial Hospital and the Albion Healthcare Center.

By Robin Govanlu, LMHN, LAC, LPC, Chief of Behavioral Health, Oak Orchard Health.

Although many aspects of daily life appear to have returned to some sense of normalcy since the pandemic, there is an increasing impact and cultural shift in the need for mental health services, especially for children and adolescents. Since the start of the pandemic, Oak Orchard Health (OOH) continues to see the demand for behavioral health services on the rise, with limited resources to respond to that demand in the rural regions that we serve.

Since 2020 we have continued to see immense growth year after year with a 119% increase in all behavioral health visits and a 164% increase in pediatric visits since the start of the pandemic.  Our Brockport and Albion sites are our largest volume sites serving many of our child and adolescent patients. Unfortunately, that has resulted in longer than usual wait times for an appointment. As a parent, we know how difficult that can be, so we’ve been partnering with many organizations to help improve this situation.

Oak Orchard Health has served as a lead agency for many years on the Western Monroe County Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health Coalition, which includes important community partners such as The University of Rochester Strong Pediatric Comprehensive Psychiatric Emergency Program (CPEP), Rochester Regional Health, SUNY Brockport, and the Brockport Central School District.  The collective data from this coalition further demonstrates the need for expansion of pediatric behavioral health services in Western Monroe and Orleans Counties, and the surrounding areas as many families that live west of Rochester experience significant challenges with accessing care closer to home.

To adequately address the behavioral health crisis in our regions and keep more children out of the hospital we need more mental health services in our community and that’s where Oak Orchard comes in. Getting our young patients connected quickly to the services that they need is vital to their well-being and ongoing development. Therefore, OOH will be expanding child and adolescent behavioral health services at the Brockport Health Center and the Albion Wellness Center. This expansion will include hiring additional therapists with a specialty in pediatric behavioral health. We’ll also be hiring support staff and a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner within the next year. Services can be provided in-person and through our telehealth program which allows for audio or video communication between the patient and mental health provider using their phone, laptop, or iPad.   

Another goal is to reduce the wait from time of referral to time of intake to get kids and families the help they need sooner.  With the new therapists hired in the coming months, we expect to be able to see new patients this summer. We plan to care for kids from as young as 2 to 21 years of age. Please share with others and we look forward to partnering with schools and parents in the area regarding the expansion of this program. We hope to make a major impact on the youth in the region. If you have any questions or want to make an appointment for the July/August period, please call Oak Orchard Health at (585) 637-3905, ext. 2102.

Press Release, Orleans County Mental Health Department

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.  “Through efforts like Mental Health Awareness Month, I believe we have made tremendous progress on how the public views mental health, although we recognize we still have a lot of work to do.”

Figura said drawing attention to mental health awareness begins with promoting the county’s Care and Crisis Helpline. Those in crisis should call the helpline at (585) 283-5200. The helpline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

“The helpline is there when people feel they have nowhere else to turn, 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 take advantage of them.”

Orleans County Mental Health Department

(Click here to see the website)

• 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 to Friday at 12:30 p.m.
• New York State Office of Mental Health Licensed Article 31 Outpatient Clinic Satellite Sites at UConnect Care (formerly GCASA) 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

• Spectrum Health CARES Team – Mobile Crisis Team Available Evenings, Weekends, Holidays for over the phone support, and in home assessments. Serving both adults and youth. Requests for the CARES Team can be made by contacting the Care & Crisis Helpline at (585) 283-5200 or contacting the Orleans County Sheriffs Dispatch.
• 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.
• “988” National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or Text 988, Connect via chat at 988Lifeline.org or visit 988Lifeline.org for more resources.

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. Click here for more information.
• Oak Orchard Health. Click here for more information.

MEDINA – Orleans Community Health is joining hospitals throughout the country in celebrating National Hospital Week May 12 to 18.

In observance of the week, everyone throughout their facility will be recognized, including the more than 300-person team within Orleans Community Health and the positive impact they have on the larger community.

“Whether you’re at Medina Memorial Hospital, the Albion Healthcare Center, either of our dialysis centers or the Middleport lab, you matter to us and the entire community,” said Marc Shurtz, CEO/CIO of Orleans Community Health.

 The week of events includes several internal functions, including several team members for their years of service and a community-wide Vendor Fair and Farmers’ Market on Friday.

The Vendor Fair, hosted by the Employees in Action Committee, will take place in the parking lot between Maintenance and the Business Office, and the public is encouraged to stop and check it out.

Vendors include Mr. Pix popcorn (kettle corn), Human Farms (plants and flowers), Red Check (handmade/refurbished décor), Melissa Clark (roses), Tupperware by Judy Szulis, Niagara Farmhouse Finds (handmade rustic décor), The Bird Nest (bakery), Blue Groove (coffee truck), The Uniform Outlet (scrubs/accessories), John Roberts (garlic and veggies), Crafty Corner (handmade bracelets), Caitlyn Allen (handmade jewelry), North Wing Resident counsel (baked goods) and Sally’s Costume Designs (vinyl designs).

The Vendor Fair will be open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday.

“Hospital Week is truly an opportunity to highlight everyone on our team,” said Scott Robinson, director of Marketing for Orleans Community Health. “Whether it’s the first person you see while going through admissions or the nurse who cares for you in subacute rehab, our team works collectively to make sure the care you receive is unmatched.”

Focus will be to reach underserved rural parts of region

Press Release, WNY Independent Living

BATAVIA – A partner of the Veterans Administration Medical Centers (VAMC) in Buffalo and Batavia, Western New York Independent Living, Inc. received the sole contract for Veteran Directed Care (VDC) with the VA.

While the Veteran Directed Care model is new to WNY, it has demonstrated success in self-directed care by veterans across the nation. VA Medical Centers partner with non-profit Independent Living Centers to empower Veterans to employ their own aides (often already being provided by family members).

WNY Independent Living CEO, Douglas Usiak shares, “As an aging service-connected disabled veteran myself, I am excited to know that my brother and sister veterans will have the comfort to direct their own homecare needs and remain in their home of choice as long as possible.

“A secondary satisfaction to being involved in the launch of this program is the opportunity to work with the VAMC in the capacity of a partner, and not just one of their consumers of services,” Usiak said. “This partnership gives me the opportunity to advance my lifelong passion of promoting the Independent Living philosophy that believes that we all have a right to live in our homes, work in our communities, and engage in society as a person with a disability.”

A focus of this program is to reach the underserved rural parts of WNY where veterans face provider shortages, geographic and distance barriers, limited broadband coverage which impairs their ability to participate in telehealth, and social determinants of health relative to rural living experiences (i.e., access to transportation, employment).

To ensure a trust-built rapport with veterans, WNY Independent Living has employed another Army veteran, Thomas Patterson, to serve in the Person-Centered Counsellor role and interface directly with the veterans in assessing their needs in their homes and communities.

Veterans and Patterson will work together to build a spending plan to identify costs for their personal assistants and obtain any additional goods and services the veteran requires to improve quality of life in their home and community.

The power of this Veteran Directed Care program can be recognized in the experiences of the individual veterans who are participating in VDC.  For example, a 94-year-old veteran who functions independently in his own home and wants to remain there with some additional oversight for specific household tasks and community access – like going to the library for a new mystery novel – has employed his daughter-in-law for these functions.

Another veteran depends on his granddaughter for activities of daily living and then she needs to go to her job in the community to support herself. Being able to be paid to continue the care she already provides to her “Poppy” will improve the quality of life for both. One thing is certain: their stories are being heard.

Crucial to WNY Independent Living’s successful launch as a VDC program, VDC Director Julie Andrews Krieger expresses gratitude for the mentorship of the other providers in the VDC community, including the Independent Living Center of Hudson Valley and VA Medical Center in Albany.

WNY Independent Living will support veterans across the wider WNY region in Orleans, Niagara, Erie, Genesee, Livingston, Wyoming, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, and Allegany counties. We are proud to serve the veterans in our community.

To qualify for this program, a Veteran must request Veteran Directed Care from their VA physician and Patient Aligned Care Team (PACT) at the local VA Medical Center or VA Clinic and an assessment is completed and referral made to the VDC program.

The Western New York Independent Living, Inc. family of agencies offer an expanding array of services to aid individuals with disabilities to take control of their own lives.

County does better in report on Health Outcomes

Chart from Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments

Press Release, Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments

The 2024 County Health Rankings have been released and updated by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) and the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute (UWPHI).  The Rankings are available at www.countyhealthrankings.org.

“Each year we look at the County Health Rankings to get an overview of our health and factors that influence our health,” stated Paul Pettit, Public Health Director for the Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health). “This year the County Health Rankings have made some changes in reporting. Rather than ranking with specific numbers, the Rankings are looking at how each county fits in the scale from Healthiest in the United States to Least Healthiest in the U.S. The purpose of the annual data release is to help communities understand the many factors that influence health.”

The rankings are broken into two main categories: Health Outcomes, which include length of life and quality of life, and Health Factors, which include health behaviors, clinical care, social and economic factors and physical environment.

Genesee County is faring about the same as the average county in the state for Health Outcomes, and better than the average county in the nation. Orleans County is faring worse than the average county in NYS for Health Outcomes, and better than the average county in the nation. For Health Factors, Genesee is faring worse than the average county, and better than the average county in the nation. Orleans is faring worse than the average county in New York State and in the nation.

“As Chief Health Strategists, we collaborate with our partners and community members to provide quality training, education and referrals as well as develop coalitions to explore the best way to help our county residents thrive and improve health factors,” Pettit said.

As referenced in the chart above, both Genesee and Orleans counties have health factors that could be improved specifically with local access to physicians, mental health providers and dentists along with excessive drinking, adult obesity, and adult smoking. Access to care significantly impacts and drives the rankings for both counties. Additionally, it is a substantial barrier for residents and ultimately, has an impact on not only an individual’s physical, social, and mental health, but also their overall quality of life.

Some key areas of the 2024 County Health Rankings for Genesee and Orleans Counties are:

• Genesee and Orleans are currently working on providing information and programming to decrease adult smoking (20% with New York at 12%) and adult obesity (40% with New York at 29%). GO Health is providing an awareness campaign in partnership with Tobacco Free GLOW on the impact smoking and vaping has on health.
• Both counties are bringing back the National Diabetes Prevention Program by presenting the Lifestyle Change program. This is an evidence-based program developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to help individuals at-risk of or diagnosed with pre-diabetes to learn how to lower their risk of developing type 2 diabetes by making lifestyle changes over 26 one-hour sessions.

The Rankings have become an important tool for communities that want to improve health for all. Working collaboratively with community partners in Genesee, Orleans, and Wyoming counties, Genesee and Orleans use the GOW 2022-2024 Community Health Assessment to choose the priorities for the Community Health Improvement Plan over the next three years.

We analyze the Rankings along with New York State data and community input from the Community Health Assessment survey and Community Conversations to determine these priorities. The 2022-2024 Community Health Improvement Plan priority areas are: prevent chronic disease, promote well-being, and prevent mental and substance use disorders.

For more information on Health Department programs and services, visit GOHealthNY.org or call your respective health department at:

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