On Health & Wellness Day, participants from Leadership Greater Nashua explored local healthcare facilities, including city hospitals and the Nashua Children’s Home. The day began with insights from Barbara Lafrance, RN, highlighting that hospice care is about living fully, offering diverse in-home services funded entirely by the community, such as wound care and IV therapy.
Staffing challenges in healthcare were discussed, with many facilities employing strategies like cross-training and flexible scheduling to accommodate needs. Mental health concerns are rising, with private practices often unable to accept Medicaid, leaving vulnerable populations without affordable care. All three hospitals have dedicated teams liaising with insurance companies to negotiate costs; their collaborative efforts are vital for service delivery.
Following a panel discussion, attendees toured the Hunt Community under the guidance of Bret Pomeroy, LGN ’24. The facility, featuring amenities like a billiard room and library, provides a continuum of care from independent living to nursing services, ensuring seamless healthcare transitions.
The presentations continued with Kim Bernard, Chief Public Health Nurse, defining public health as safeguarding and enhancing community well-being. The Nashua Division of Public Health offers varied services, from vaccinations to food assistance, through its multiple departments.
Stacey Carroll, Director of Emergency Management, discussed workplace violence in healthcare, sharing statistics and preventative measures. Continuing the educational journey, Sheila focused on stress management techniques, steering the group towards healthier reactions to stress.
Katie Parker and Erica Hunt from the YMCA presented on chronic disease prevention and living healthily. They discussed various clinics, including blood pressure screenings and programmes for cancer survivors, before leading a tour of the YMCA, where participants tackled an obstacle course and enjoyed pickleball.
The day concluded with relaxing chair yoga and meditation, fostering a spirit of well-being and learning.
Written by: Lea Reilly, MS and Christina Cardwell.
Participants from Leadership Greater Nashua explored health services, engaged in information sessions on hospice, mental health, and public health, and learned about chronic disease prevention at the YMCA. The day included facility tours and activities, promoting education and wellness in the community.
The Health & Wellness Day organised by the Greater Nashua Chamber provided invaluable insights into community healthcare, highlighting the importance of collaboration and affordable services. Attendees learned about various healthcare programmes and stress management strategies, along with engaging in physical activities at the YMCA. Overall, the day emphasised the essence of living healthily, both physically and mentally.
Original Source: patch.com
