Beginning today, Good Samaritan will begin a new program in appreciation of Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces. Patients who enter the hospital will be asked if they are a veteran and whether or not they will allow the hospital to honor them during their inpatient stay or outpatient visit.
Veteran status will be entered into Good Samaritan’s electronic medical records system, EPIC, during admission. If the veteran agrees, as an inpatient they will have a patriotic arm band and an American flag sign will be placed on the outside of their room door. This will give employees taking part in their care an opportunity to express appreciation for their service. Outpatient veterans may choose to wear an American flag sticker during their visit at the hospital that will also serve as an identifier for others to show their appreciation.
“We have several veterans in the area and we felt that having a way to show our gratitude was important,” said Mary Pargin, Trauma Program Manager and Emergency Management Coordinator. “Not every veteran may want to participate, and that is ok. For those that allow us, we just want to acknowledge their service and say thank you.”
If a veteran passes while at Good Samaritan, the family of the patient will be offered a Final Salute. An overhead announcement will invite all available hospital employees to meet in theGibault Memorial lobby to pay their respects. Once in the lobby, the hospital chaplain and nursing supervisor will read “A Veteran’s Prayer” followed by a tribute to the veteran.
“Our veterans sacrificed so much and fought for our freedom,” said Rob McLin, President and CEO. “This recognition is the least we could do to honor their service. We hope that this small ceremony also provides some comfort to the grieving family.”