October 19, 2011
Interactive health learning center opens
West Valley Medical Center plans open house for interactive new program
CALDWELL, Idaho – A unique new center for experience-based health education in a relaxed environment is now open at West Valley Medical Center ― and the community is invited to a hands-on first encounter.
An open house from 4 to 6 p.m. Oct. 25 will show the community what’s different about the new Center for Health and Wellness. The event will include tours, refreshments, a Caldwell Chamber of Commerce ribbon-cutting ceremony and information about the center — featuring the new Ortho and Spine Academies.
West Valley Medical Center has expanded its orthopedic and spine services into a comprehensive, multidisciplinary program unavailable at other facilities.
Dieter Saunto, director of programmatic development is working with highly respected surgeons and specialized hospital staff, including orthopedics service line coordinator Judy Pullman and spine service line coordinator Judy Pullman, to develop a program that takes the “least invasive, most effective” approach. It allows the hospital to provide crucial community education; extensive outreach support; and, when needed, detailed preparation for orthopedic and spine surgical procedures.
“The No. 1 priority is the patient and family experience,” said Saunto, who spearheaded a similar program at the Medical Center of Aurora in Colorado. “We foster a creative, interactive education process that helps put everyone involved more at ease. It’s what they deserve.”
The academy sets itself apart with patient-centered, caring staff; state-of-the-art technology; and benchmark diagnosticians. The program’s value-added services include:
- Pre- and post-operative training and education
- Dietary education
- Discharge planning
“This is a really exciting, fun way to learn,” hospital CEO Julie Taylor said. “It’s important that local residents don’t have to drive 45 minutes or even longer to receive the superior education and treatment enabled by this center.”
The Center for Health and Wellness will be used for interactive education across a variety of specialties as new programs and partnerships continue to blossom on the Caldwell campus.
West Valley Medical Center, Caldwell’s community hospital, is one of the leading hospital facilities and employers in Idaho. This 150-bed, nationally accredited facility is dedicated to providing high-quality, cost-effective healthcare to Treasure Valley residents. For more information about West Valley Medical Center, please see www.westvalleymedctr.com.
