Author Archives: Christian Bigwater

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 12, 2023

GANADO, Ariz. – Beginning on Monday, May 15, 2023 at 8:00 AM (MDT) Sage Memorial Hospital is implementing new COVID-19 policies. The changes are being made to reflect the end of the Federal Public Health Emergency for COVID-19 that occurred on May 11 as well as the Navajo Nation mask mandate which was lifted by President Buu Nygren through Health Emergency Order No. 2023-002 on May 5.

The new policy applies to all SMH facilities and includes the following changes:

• Vaccines: The Bivalent vaccine is provided in the Outpatient Clinic, Monday thru Friday from 9am-4pm by appointment or walk-in.
  
  
• Screening: All screening requirements for patients, visitors and employees at all facilities will be lifted.
  
  
• Testing: COVID-19 testing will be done based on individuals experiencing flu-like symptoms as determined by the Outpatient Clinic, Emergency Department or Medical Telemetry.
  
  
• Masks: Patients, visitors, and employees have the option to wear masks at our facilities. However, those with flu-like symptoms will be required to wear a mask, which SMH will provide.

“This new policy is intended to provide a framework for returning our hospital to its pre-pandemic operations, while still striving to protect the health of our patients, visitors and employees,” said Director of Quality Management Sharon Edison. “Everyone should always follow basic infection control measures such as handwashing, covering up a cough or sneeze and avoiding crowds when you are sick.”

Sage Memorial Hospital will continue to monitor both local and national conditions and will adjust its policies as needed to comply with local and state health regulations.

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Christian Bigwater
Director of Public Relations/Marketing
christian.bigwater@sagememorial.com
Office – (928) 755-4532
Cell – (928) 221-4205

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 9, 2023

GANADO, Ariz. – On May 8, Sage Memorial Hospital (SMH) was awarded the Joint Commission accreditation “Gold Seal of Approval” for demonstrating compliance with the highest standards in healthcare. The accreditation is a symbol of excellence that reflects an organization’s commitment to providing safe and quality patient care.

“This is a huge success for SMH, and we are proud to have achieved this accreditation— especially in such an effortless manner,” said SMH CEO Melinda White. “I am appreciative of all the staff and the hard work involved in this successful survey; this is a real testament to our commitment to providing high-quality care for all patients who come through our doors.”

Earlier this year, from Feb. 28 through Mar. 7, the SMH underwent a rigorous, unannounced onsite survey. During the review, a team of Joint Commission experts evaluated compliance with hospital standards related to patient care practices, medical records, infection control, quality management and leadership.

The survey uncovered 24 findings, which were minor compliance issues that needed to be addressed to meet The Joint Commission’s standards. Director of Quality Management, Sharon Edison, explained that addressing each finding required collaboration across departments to develop a corrective plan of action, implement the plan, evaluate its effectiveness, and ensure that the corrections are sustained.

“Ensuring that patients at risk of suicidal ideation received proper documentation, care and treatment as needed was the most challenging aspect of our survey,” said Edison. “However, through collaborative efforts from providers, nurses and members of the Behavioral Health team, this requirement was successfully met by SMH.”

The accreditation is valid for 36-months, however, with the construction of SMH’s new facility, accreditation standards will be surveyed to ensure patients receive the safest, highest-quality care. For more information about The Joint Commission, please visit www.jointcommission.org.

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Christian Bigwater
Director of Public Relations/Marketing
christian.bigwater@sagememorial.com
Office – (928) 755-4532
Cell – (928) 221-4205