By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 18 May 2026 at 9:28 am
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.”
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 15 May 2026 at 2:52 pm
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.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 13 May 2026 at 8:03 am
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.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 13 May 2026 at 7:53 am
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.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 7 May 2026 at 8:52 am
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.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 1 May 2026 at 7:27 am
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.”
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 30 April 2026 at 9:05 pm
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.
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.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 23 April 2026 at 11:18 am
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.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 18 April 2026 at 6:24 pm
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.
By Ginny Kropf, correspondent Posted 18 April 2026 at 6:21 pm
MEDINA – Nurses at Orleans Community Health walk an average of 105 miles every month, caring for patients, according to Megan Johnson, director of the Orleans Community Health Foundation.
“This May, we are inviting the community to try it,” Johnson said. “Not because it’s easy, but because it matters.”
May is designated as “Walk a Month in a Nurses’ Shoes” month, a virtual challenge where individuals walk 105 miles throughout May, while raising support for patient care, right here in our community, Johnson said. Orleans Community Health’s goal is $10,000.
Participants are encouraged to ask friends and family to support their journey with pledges or donations. They may walk at their own pace and track their miles however they choose.
The challenge follows a successful inaugural event in 2025.
Throughout the month of May, participants are encouraged to commit to walking 105 miles at their own pace – whether indoors or outdoors, individually or as part of a team. This flexible, inclusive format allows anyone to participate, regardless of fitness level or schedule.
Highlights of the event also include weekly prizes and community recognition, awards for top fundraisers and teams and friendly competition and community engagement.
“We were incredibly encouraged by the community’s response in 2025,” Johnson said. “This challenge is more than just a fitness goal – it’s a way to recognize the tireless work of our nurses and come together to make a meaningful impact on patient care in our community.”
“Whether you hit all 105 miles or just take the first step, you’re making a difference, because every dollar raised helps ensure care stays close to home for the people who need it most,” Johnson said. “Let’s show our nurses what their work means in this community – one step at a time.”
Donations can be sent to Orleans Community Health Foundation with the name of the person to be credited and their name will be added to the page.
Proceeds from the event directly benefit patient care initiatives at Orleans Community Health.
Roswell mobile lung screening unit will be at Hoag on April 20, 21
Press Release, Hoag Library
ALBION – We’re pleased to share that the UR Medicine Mobile Mammography Unit will be returning to Hoag Library on June 5 (and March 30, 2027).
Appointments and registration are handled directly through UR Medicine. Additionally, the Roswell mobile lung screening unit will be at Hoag Library on Monday, April 20 and Tuesday, April 21, and the Red Cross will have a Blood Drive on June 13.
The mammography unit will be available from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on June 5 at the library, 134 South Main St.
For information on the lung cancer screening unit, click here or call 1-800-ROSWELL (767-9355).
Hoag also will be hosting the blood drive from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on June 13. To make an appointment call 1-800 RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or go to redcrossblood.org.
Press Release, Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments
As the weather gets warmer, more people spend time outside. During this time, it’s common to see wild animals and baby animals in yards, parks and wooded areas.
The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) remind everyone to be careful around wild animals, stray pets, and even young animals. Rabies is a serious disease that can spread to both animals and people, but it can be prevented.
“Rabies usually spreads through bites from infected animals like raccoons, skunks, bats, and foxes,” said Darren Brodie, Environmental Health Director for GO Health. “Even though baby animals may look harmless, they can still carry rabies. Do not touch or feed wild or stray animals. If an animal looks sick or injured, call animal control for help.”
Rabies can be deadly if it is not treated quickly. If you are bitten, wash the area right away with soap and water and get medical care as soon as possible. All animal bites should be reported to the Genesee or Orleans County Health Departments.
To help prevent rabies, follow these tips:
Make sure your pets have their rabies shots and are up to date.
Stay away from wild animals, stray pets, and baby animals, even if they seem friendly or hurt. Report animals that act strange, such as being aggressive, confused, or overly friendly.
Keep your pets on a leash to stop them from coming into contact with wild or stray animals. If your pet is bitten, contact your veterinarian right away and report it to the health department.
Take steps to prevent bats from coming indoors. If you find a bat inside, safely capture it and contact the health department. Do not let it go. For help, watch the GO Health Minute on how to safely catch a bat: GO Health Minute.
Residents are encouraged to take advantage of our upcoming drive-thru rabies vaccination clinics for dogs, cats, and ferrets in Genesee and Orleans counties, offered at no charge. Remember to bring proof of previous vaccination.
Orleans County Rabies Clinics at the Orleans County Fairgrounds (12690 State Route 31, Albion, NY 14411)
Saturday, April 25, from 9 to 11:30 a.m.
Wednesday, June 17, from 3:30 to 6 p.m.
Wednesday, August 19, from 3:30 to 6 p.m.
Wednesday, October 7, from 3:30 to 6 p.m.
Genesee County Rabies Clinics at the Genesee County Fairgrounds (5056 East Main Street, Batavia, NY 14020)
Thursday, May 14, from 3:30 to 6 p.m.
Thursday, August 13, from 3:30 to 6 p.m.
Thursday, October 8, from 3:30 to 6 p.m.
For more information on GO Health’s programs and services, visit GOHealthNY.org.
Press Release, Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments
The Genesee and Orleans County Health Departments (GO Health) are joining communities across the country to celebrate National Public Health Week from April 6-12. This week is a time to celebrate public health successes and learn how GO Health protects and supports the community.
This year’s theme, “Ready. Set. Action!”, highlights the work GO Health does every day to keep our community healthy. Community members are encouraged to learn about our programs and services, including:
Children with Special Needs Program: Helps children with developmental, physical, or special health care needs get the resources they need to grow and succeed.
Community Health Services: Tracks diseases, collects health data, cares for mothers and children, and runs immunization clinics. Learn more: Immunization Clinics.
Lead Poisoning Prevention: Educates community members on lead hazards and manages grant programs to address lead-based paint and other home health risks. Learn more: Lead Grants.
Public Health Education: Provides health education and resources so community members can make informed choices for their wellbeing. The PHE team helps to lead the Community Health Assessment (CHA) and Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP), using resident feedback to guide programs. The 2025–2030 CHA/CHIP identified the following priority areas: Poverty, Anxiety and Stress, and Preventive Services for Chronic Disease Prevention and Control. Residents can review the full CHA/CHIP here: CHA/CHIP.
Public Health Emergency Preparedness: Builds a community ready for emergencies through training and education. Learn more: Emergency Preparedness.
Weights and Measures: Tests devices and fuel quality to ensure accuracy in commerce and fairness for everyone in our community.
In addition to learning about our programs, we encourage residents to explore CredibleMind, a confidential digital platform providing mental health tools and resources for community members. Check it out to get personalized guidance and resources to help you and your family thrive: CredibleMind.
“National Public Health Week is a great time to recognize the work our team does to keep the community healthy,” said Paul Pettit, Public Health Director for GO Health. “I encourage community members to celebrate public health and learn more about programs that promote the health and wellbeing of youth, families, and the community. I also thank our staff, volunteers, community partners, the Board of Health, and County Legislatures. Working together, we make our community stronger and healthier.”
For more information on GO Health programs and services, visit GOHealthNY.org.
By Scott Robinson, director of Marketing, Communications and Outreach for OCH
As we look ahead to warmer, spring-like weather, it is the perfect time to reset and take an intentional approach to our health and well-being. Small, consistent habits can make a big difference over time, and getting started does not have to be complicated. By building a routine around a few simple, practical steps, you can set yourself up for long-term success.
Here are some basic things you can do to improve your goals:
Stay hydrated – drink water throughout the day.
Eat a balanced diet – make sure you are getting enough fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains (and try not to overdo it on the leftover Easter candy).
Move – aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity most days of the week.
Get enough sleep – prioritize 7 to 9 hours of quality rest each night.
Manage stress – carve out time to relax, recharge, and focus on yourself.
Practice good hand hygiene – no matter the season, always wash your hands.
Health screenings – stay on top of preventative care and recommended screenings.
Limit screen time and stay connected – step away from devices and spend meaningful time with others.
Listen to your body – do not ignore signs that something may be wrong.
Remember, improving your health does not require drastic changes overnight. Even small steps, like choosing water over soda, taking a short walk, or going to bed a little earlier, can add up. The key is consistency and making choices that support both your physical and mental well-being. Start today, stay committed, and give yourself credit for every positive step forward.
As you move through the season, consider setting small, achievable goals each week to keep yourself motivated. Whether it is adding an extra serving of vegetables to your meals, scheduling that overdue check-up, or simply getting outside to enjoy some fresh air, every effort counts.
Surround yourself with supportive people who encourage healthy habits, and do not be discouraged by setbacks – they are a natural part of the process. Focus on progress, not perfection, and remember that investing in your health today can lead to a stronger, healthier tomorrow.
April 7 is World Health Day and a great opportunity to get started!
