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.

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.

Call 1-844-870-0002 or email mammovan@urmc.rochester.edu for more information.

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.
• Environmental Health: Ensures safe drinking water, inspects food establishments, investigates rabies cases, and runs rabies clinics. Learn more: Rabies 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:

1. Stay hydrated – drink water throughout the day.
2. 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).
3. Move – aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity most days of the week.
4. Get enough sleep – prioritize 7 to 9 hours of quality rest each night.
5. Manage stress – carve out time to relax, recharge, and focus on yourself.
6. Practice good hand hygiene – no matter the season, always wash your hands.
7. Health screenings – stay on top of preventative care and recommended screenings.
8. Limit screen time and stay connected – step away from devices and spend meaningful time with others.
9. 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!

Photos courtesy of GLOW With Your Hands: Genesee Community College hosted the fourth annual GLOW With Your Hands: Healthcare event today. Medical, public health and emergency medical providers and colleges gave students career insights and hands-on healthcare experiences.

Press Release, GLOW With Your Hands

BATAVIA – More than 650 students from 29 school districts in Genesee, Livingston, Orleans, and Wyoming (GLOW) counties experienced hands-on healthcare career exploration today at Genesee Community College.

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

Sienna Berrios, a senior at Attica High School, is interested in pursuing a career in nursing and was impressed by the knowledge and hands-on instruction she learned from vendors throughout the day-long career exploration event.

“The classroom information session was my favorite experience of the day, our group learned about the responsibilities, duties, and pathways of various healthcare careers,” said Berrios. “If you are a student in the GLOW region and figuring out your next step after graduation, GLOW With Your Hands is the event for you.”

Over 60 healthcare, higher education, and career pathway organizations provided informational and hands-on activities related to careers in EMS, pharmacy, healthcare administration, physical therapy, healthy living, physicians/residents, holistic medicine, radiology/sonography/ultrasound, mental health and social work, research science, nursing, respiratory therapy, occupational therapy, speech pathology, physician’s assistant/nurse practitioner, surgery, and vet technician.

“GLOW With Your Hands: Healthcare recognizes the importance of access to high-quality healthcare services in the GLOW region and other rural areas in New York State starts with preparing our next generation of healthcare leaders,” said GLOW With Your Hands Co-Chair Angela Grouse. “It has been encouraging to see students achieving their aspirations and starting rewarding careers through the training programs and employers they meet at our event.”

In addition to hands-on demonstrations, every student participated in a pair of self-selected workshops with a variety of healthcare careers led by medical, emergency response, and training professionals. Students also explored educational pathways in the healthcare sector through BOCES and degree programs at local colleges and universities.

“By bringing together educators, workforce experts, and local organizations we are advancing our major goal: to prepare the next generation of workforce candidates and connect them to local, in-demand careers,” said GLOW With Your Hands Co-Chair Karyn Winters.

Kennedy Gross, a sophomore at Perry High School, learned how to cauterize a pig’s foot in the surgery classroom session. Hands-on experiences about unique and rewarding career paths are a hallmark of how GLOW With Your Hands jumpstarts career interests for future workforce candidates.

“The hands-on activities are experiences we do not typically get during our high school classes, but practicing these simulations will help me prepare for a healthcare career,” said Gross. “After today, I have a better understanding of how I can further my education and what skills I need to learn before I graduate in 2028.”

Representatives from hospitals and health systems and professionals in nursing, mental health, social services, and emergency responders interacted with students to discuss their careers and pathways into their respective fields.

University of Rochester Medicine Noyes Health has been a participant of GLOW With Your Hands: Healthcare since its inception in 2023. The organization delivers multiple activities and informational tables to the annual career exploration event, including imaging, career/college pathways, and infection prevention.

“Students learn about unique healthcare opportunities they might not encounter elsewhere, providing them with an advantage in choosing their future career path,” stated Jennifer Ornt, Director of Infection Prevention and Nursing Education, University of Rochester Medical Center. “We look forward to this annual event; recruiting and educating the next generation of workers helps us provide essential services to the GLOW region and surrounding communities.”

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